Should an automatic transmission be started in P gear or N gear?
2 Answers
An automatic transmission should be started in P gear. From the perspective of the transmission's working principle, when starting the engine in P gear and then shifting through R gear without stopping, there will be no additional damage to the transmission. Some automatic vehicles can only be started in P gear, and if the road surface is uneven, starting in P gear can also prevent the vehicle from rolling. Differences between P gear and N gear: 1. Different names: P gear is called the parking gear, also known as the parking lock; N gear is called the neutral gear. 2. Different functions: P gear is used when the vehicle is parked or not in use for a period of time; N gear is only used for short-term parking. 3. Different working principles: When P gear is engaged, the parking pawl inside the transmission is partially locked, and the wheels are mechanically locked; engaging N gear is equivalent to shifting into neutral, where the engine and the drive shaft are completely separated at the transmission position, with no power transmitted to the output shaft, but it does not have a braking function.
I remember driving automatic transmission cars for many years, and once for convenience, I started the engine in N gear. To my surprise, the car slid backward when parked on a slope, which really startled me. Since then, I only start the engine in P gear, which completely locks the transmission, preventing the wheels from moving, making it much safer. Many experienced drivers have made this mistake, and beginners should especially take note: always confirm you're in P gear before starting. There's a reason automatic transmissions are designed this way—P gear locks the drivetrain with gears to prevent accidental movement; while N gear allows ignition, if you forget to engage the handbrake or the ground is uneven, the car might roll. I've seen many accidents caused by this small oversight, especially in rainy areas with lots of slopes. In short, make it a habit—don't cut corners by using N gear. Safe driving starts with attention to detail.
