Should an automatic transmission be started in P or N gear?
4 Answers
An automatic transmission should be started in P gear. An automatic transmission eliminates the need for the driver to manually shift gears, as the vehicle automatically selects the appropriate gear based on driving speed and traffic conditions. The method to start an automatic transmission car is: 1. Turn the ignition key to the second position (power mode), allowing the car's computer system to begin self-check; 2. Press the foot brake and shift the gear to P; 3. Release the foot brake and start the ignition. The gears of an automatic transmission include: 1. P gear (Parking gear); 2. R gear (Reverse gear); 3. N gear (Neutral gear); 4. D gear (Drive gear); 5. L gear (Low gear); 6. S gear (Sport mode).
I'm used to starting my automatic transmission car in P gear, which is the safest practice. P gear stands for Park gear, it mechanically locks the transmission to prevent the car from accidentally moving, especially when parked on a slope. If you start the engine in N gear (Neutral), although it can still start, the car might roll away, particularly if the handbrake isn't tight enough. Once I saw a friend forget to put it in P gear when starting in a parking lot, the car moved slightly and almost hit a pillar - it was really dangerous. Remember, always make sure the gear is in P before starting the engine, then press the brake to start. Don't cut corners by using N gear. Developing good habits is crucial - it reduces accident risks and protects transmission components. Don't wait until problems occur to regret it.
As an experienced driver who has driven automatic transmission vehicles for years, I've learned the importance of starting the engine in P (Park) gear. N (Neutral) gear is suitable for brief stops like waiting at traffic lights, but using it to start the engine is risky because the vehicle isn't locked and may roll if you release the brake. I once tried starting in N gear on a slope and nearly rolled backward – since then, I've strictly used P gear. Car manufacturers also design systems to require P gear for ignition; otherwise, the start button won't respond. I recommend always confirming the gear is in P before starting, combined with pressing the brake – it's simple, reliable, and extends vehicle lifespan. Don't skip this crucial step.
As a car enthusiast, I know it's much better to start the engine in P gear than in N gear. P gear has a locking mechanism to prevent sliding, ensuring safe engine startup; N gear is neutral without any protection. Starting the engine in the wrong gear may cause the car to move and harm people or the vehicle. I recommend new drivers develop the habit of starting in P gear directly, not just for temporary convenience. Remember, pressing the brake is key to avoid misoperation. Proper engine starting can reduce transmission wear and prolong the car's lifespan.
