Should an automatic transmission car shift gears first or start the engine first?
4 Answers
An automatic transmission car must start the engine first before shifting into drive gear. Below is a detailed introduction to the gears: 1. P (Parking) gear: When parking and not in use, the gear is in this position, and the wheels are mechanically locked to prevent rolling. 2. R (Reverse) gear: Used for reversing. 3. N (Neutral) gear: Used for temporary stops (e.g., at a red light). This gear indicates neutral, and to prevent the vehicle from rolling on a slope, the brake must be pressed. 4. D (Drive) gear: Also known as the driving gear. Used for moving forward. 5. 2 (Second) gear: Used for starting on very steep slopes or when driving on a relatively steep incline. The principle is that shifting to this gear limits the car's automatic gear shifting to only low gears (equivalent to first and second gears in a manual transmission car), ensuring the car gains maximum forward momentum. 6. L (Low) gear: When going downhill or descending a long slope, shifting to this gear limits the car's automatic gear shifting to only the lowest gear (equivalent to first gear in a manual transmission car), allowing the car to use engine braking downhill, preventing the driver from having to press the brake for extended periods, which could overheat the brake pads and cause danger.
When driving an automatic transmission car, the correct procedure is to start the engine first and then shift gears—this is absolutely a crucial safety habit. Think about it: if you shift gears first and then start the engine, the car might suddenly move forward or backward as soon as the engine fires up, especially in a sloped garage, potentially crashing into a wall or other objects. I’ve seen many accidents caused by beginners neglecting this step. The right way is: after getting in the car, first press the brake pedal, then start the engine, and wait for the tachometer to stabilize and the engine to run smoothly before shifting to D or R gear. This prevents the vehicle from moving unexpectedly, avoiding harm to people or damage to the car. Forming this habit is simple—just spend an extra second paying attention to the sequence every time you drive, and it will significantly improve safety. Remember, driving is no joke; details determine overall risk. The engine requires a no-load state during startup, and shifting gears before ignition adds stress to the transmission, causing long-term damage to components. So, whether it’s sunny or rainy, this small change can bring big benefits.
When I first started driving, my instructor repeatedly emphasized the importance of turning on the ignition before shifting gears to prevent unexpected accidents. He shared a real-life example: a friend of his started the car in D gear in their home garage, causing the car to lurch forward and crash into a doorpost, resulting in a lengthy repair. Since then, I've developed a habit: stepping on the brake, turning on the ignition, waiting a few seconds for the engine sound to stabilize, and only then shifting gears. It's not just a rule; it's a form of self-protection. After driving for a while, you'll notice this sequence makes starting smoother, especially on cold mornings when the engine needs to warm up. Now, I always recommend this method—simple but effective. Avoiding mistakes saves time, hassle, and repair costs. By the way, when parking, it's best to shift to P gear and engage the handbrake. Checking these basics when starting ensures everything goes smoothly. Developing good habits boosts confidence behind the wheel—safety first, after all.
Simply put, when driving an automatic transmission car, start the engine first and then shift gears. Get in the car, press the brake pedal firmly, start the engine, wait for it to stabilize, and then shift to D to drive. Don't reverse the order, otherwise the car might suddenly move, which could be troublesome and might lead to hitting something. The principle is quite simple: the engine starts better without load when ignited; shifting gears prematurely can cause trouble for the transmission. Just remember to follow the routine steps daily; no professional knowledge is needed, and it will become a habit naturally. Smooth starting makes driving more comfortable and ensures safety.
