Should the automatic car be started in P gear or N gear?
3 Answers
When starting an automatic car, the gear should be in N, as starting in P gear may exert a slight impact force on the parking gear. Below is some relevant knowledge about automatic transmissions: 1. Concept of automatic transmission: An automatic transmission is a gear-shifting device that automatically changes gears based on the vehicle's speed and engine RPM, as opposed to a manual transmission. 2. Types of automatic transmissions: Currently, there are four common types of automatic transmissions in cars, namely hydraulic automatic transmission (AT), continuously variable transmission (CVT), automated manual transmission (AMT), and dual-clutch transmission.
With years of experience in the automotive field, I firmly understand that the best practice for starting an automatic transmission vehicle is to engage the P (Park) gear rather than the N (Neutral) gear. This is because the P gear is specifically designed to lock the transmission when parking and starting, preventing the vehicle from rolling. In contrast, the N gear lacks a locking mechanism, and if the car is on a slope or uneven ground, it may accidentally move, posing a safety hazard. Additionally, the engine speed is more stable when starting in P gear, reducing unnecessary wear on the drivetrain. Many drivers develop the habit of engaging P gear and firmly pressing the brake pedal for dual safety assurance. Remember, all vehicle manuals and manufacturer guidelines explicitly state that the car must be started in P gear to minimize accident risks and prolong the vehicle's lifespan. In short, safety comes first—never overlook this detail for the sake of convenience.
I often chat with friends about automatic transmission car operations. Simply put, it's more reliable to start the car in P (Park) gear. The mechanical structure of P gear is like a safety lock, blocking the transmission wheels from moving; while N (Neutral) gear is just a free state, allowing the wheels to roll without restriction. If you start the car in N gear on a slope or forget to engage the handbrake, the car might roll downhill and hit something, which is quite dangerous. Moreover, when the engine first starts, there's significant current fluctuation, and P gear helps stabilize the current transmission. I once saw a repair shop share that starting in N gear for a long time could cause abnormal gear wear and increase repair costs. So, developing the habit of using P gear is both worry-free and wallet-friendly.
