Should an Automatic Transmission Car Be Warmed Up in N or P Gear?

[McRose]

For warming up an automatic transmission car, both N (Neutral) gear and P (Park) gear are acceptable, but using N gear requires engaging the handbrake. Additionally, warming up in P gear locks all four wheels of the vehicle, and the engine speed in P gear is relatively higher, resulting in a faster warm-up process. 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. Typically, automatic transmission cars have six gear positions, arranged from top to bottom as: P, R, N, D, S, and L. For general driving needs, using the P gear for parking, R gear for reversing, N gear for neutral, and D gear for driving is sufficient. However, in certain special driving conditions, other functional gears may be required.

[Lane]

I worked in a fleet for several years and saw many beginners struggling with whether to use N gear or P gear when warming up the car. Personally, I always insist on using P gear. P gear is the parking gear, which effectively locks the transmission, preventing the car from rolling even on slopes or uneven ground, ensuring high safety. Warming up the car is mainly about letting the engine warm up for a minute or two, allowing the oil to lubricate the components and preventing wear from a cold start. If you use N gear, the car may roll freely, especially if the handbrake isn't tightened properly, which can easily lead to accidents. Modern automatic cars are designed with the consideration that warming up in P gear is more reasonable, and it can also work with the electronic parking system to simplify operations. Developing this habit ensures both safety and convenience, reducing unnecessary risks.

[Valerie]

I often go on self-driving trips these years, and my car is like my second home. When warming up the car, I recommend shifting to P (Park) gear. The P gear locks the transmission with a mechanical device, ensuring the car remains stationary, especially on overpasses or slopes, where the car won't budge at all. The N (Neutral) gear is equivalent to freewheeling, with no restraint on the wheels, which may quietly slide, significantly increasing the danger. Warming up the car only takes a short time to allow the engine to reach operating temperature and the oil to circulate. Some cars have intelligent systems that automatically activate auxiliary functions when in P gear, such as anti-rollback or low-temperature protection. Don't choose N gear—although it saves a bit of fuel, the risk is too high. Safe driving comes first, and the car will also last longer.

[EllieRose]

As an average car owner, I always use the P (Park) gear for warming up my car—it's hassle-free and reliable. The P gear firmly secures the car in place, preventing any unintended movement, which is especially reassuring during rushed mornings or rainy days. While using N (Neutral) gear isn't impossible, forgetting to fully engage the handbrake could lead to the car rolling away or accidental bumps causing trouble. Warming up only takes a minute or two, just enough to let the engine warm up slightly and ensure internal lubrication, avoiding premature wear. The P gear operation is straightforward—just push a button—fitting seamlessly into daily routines. Having driven various car models, I've always handled it this way without issues. Safety comes first; no need to invite unnecessary headaches.