Should an automatic transmission car be started in P gear or N gear?

[JaxsonMarie]

Automatic transmission cars should be started in P gear. The P gear in automatic transmission cars evolved from the N gear, with the addition of an internal locking mechanism that enables mechanical locking of the vehicle, to some extent preventing the car from rolling. Starting the vehicle in P gear is considered standard practice. Automatic transmissions eliminate the need for drivers to manually shift gears, as the vehicle automatically selects the appropriate gear based on driving speed and traffic conditions. Typically, automatic transmission cars have six gear positions, arranged from top to bottom as: P, R, N, D, S, and L. Using the parking gear (P), reverse gear (R), neutral gear (N), and drive gear (D) in an automatic transmission car can fully meet the needs of general driving. However, in some special driving environments, other functional gears may be required.

[OKayden]

I've been driving for over 40 years and always start my automatic transmission car in P (Park) gear. This habit comes from experience: once when I tried starting in N (Neutral) on a slope, the car almost rolled away, which was terrifying. P gear has a special locking mechanism that secures the transmission to prevent movement; while N gear allows starting, the wheels are free, making it prone to rolling especially on slopes or if the handbrake fails. The engine generates significant force during ignition, and P gear provides better cushioning to protect components. Most manufacturers design vehicles to require P gear for starting - otherwise modern cars may not sense proper gear position and prevent ignition. Make it a routine to engage the handbrake and shift to P gear every time you park, saving future repair hassles. Remember, safe driving prioritizes details - don't risk transmission damage or accidents just to save a few seconds.

[AaronDella]

When I was young, I often wondered why it was necessary to start the car in P (Park) mode. I once tried starting it in N (Neutral), and the car didn't move, which made me think it was safe. However, stories of runaway cars shared online alerted me. P mode locks the transmission system to ensure the car doesn't move, while N mode leaves it in neutral without locking, meaning engine vibrations on a slope could cause dangerous sliding. The correct procedure is simple: stop the car, shift to P, engage the handbrake, and then start the ignition. Beginners often make mistakes, so my instructor taught me to first check that the gear indicator shows P before pressing the start button. Making this a habit in daily driving extends the car's lifespan, as the transmission is optimally lubricated when starting in P mode. Safety comes first—don't challenge the design rules to avoid unnecessary expenses.

[Shelly]

A common issue during car repairs is owners starting the engine in N (Neutral) gear, which can cause malfunctions. The standard practice is to start in P (Park) gear: P gear has a pawl that locks the output shaft, preventing the car from rolling; N gear is free-spinning with no protection, making it prone to rolling on slopes or accelerating wear. Engine startup places a heavy load, and P gear disperses the force to reduce impact. Though it may seem minor, repeated incorrect operations can burn out the transmission, leading to repair costs in the thousands. It is recommended to always park in P gear, engage the handbrake, and then start the engine. Developing good habits ensures the car remains stable and durable.

[AylaDella]

I emphasize safe driving: Starting in P is no trivial matter. Statistics show frequent accidents caused by vehicle rollaway when starting in N, with hazards doubling on slopes. P mechanically locks the wheels, working with the parking brake for rock-solid stability; N grants freedom, where engine vibrations during startup can easily cause dangerous slides. Standard procedure is crucial: confirm gear in P, engage parking brake, then press start. Neglecting this may damage the transmission or cause accidents, leading to costly and time-consuming repairs. Develop daily inspection habits to enhance driving safety.