Should the brake be released slowly or directly when starting an automatic transmission car?
3 Answers
If the road ahead is flat and clear, you can completely release the foot brake at once and then accelerate to start; if the road conditions ahead are complex and crowded, with people, vehicles, or obstacles, or on a steep slope, you should not release the brake all at once. Instead, you need to release it slowly and gradually in a "tentative" manner, mainly to prevent the car from speeding out of control and causing an accident during startup. Additional information about automatic transmission is as follows: 1. Introduction: Automatic transmission, as the name suggests, does not require the driver to manually shift gears. The vehicle will automatically select the appropriate gear based on the driving speed and traffic conditions. Generally, there are six gear positions on an automatic transmission car, from top to bottom: P, R, N, D, S, L. 2. Principle: The automatic transmission uses planetary gear mechanisms to shift gears. It can automatically shift gears based on the degree of the accelerator pedal and changes in vehicle speed. The driver only needs to control the speed by operating the accelerator pedal.
I'm a beginner learning to drive an automatic car. I remember the first time I drove, my coach repeatedly emphasized that when starting, I should slowly release the brake and never let it go abruptly. This is because automatic cars have the transmission engaging, and if you release the brake too quickly, the car will lurch forward or backward suddenly, especially on slopes, which can easily lead to dangerous situations like rolling. I once tried releasing the brake abruptly on a slope, and the car jerked, almost hitting a wall—it was terrifying. Now, I'm used to releasing it slowly, and the starts feel super smooth, with no sudden movements or complaints from passengers. Gradually releasing the brake also reduces engine load, saves a bit of fuel, and protects the brake pads and suspension system. If you're a beginner, practicing a few more times will help you get the hang of it. Try different slopes in an open area to understand why. Overall, safety comes first—don’t rush it.
As a daily commuter driving an automatic transmission car, I've found that gradually releasing the brake when starting off makes for a more relaxed drive. During frequent stops at traffic lights on my daily commute, if I release the brake abruptly, the car tends to lurch forward or jerk suddenly, which can startle passengers or prompt honking from cars behind, and it doesn't feel comfortable for me either. Gradually releasing the brake allows the car to glide out smoothly, with the transmission engaging gently, making the drive safer and less stressful. This is especially true on slopes, where even with assist systems, it helps prevent mishaps. Once it becomes a habit, starting off feels as smooth as silk, reduces wear on the vehicle, and slightly optimizes fuel consumption. Friends often remark how stable and bump-free my rides are, so don't mind the extra effort—taking it slow when releasing the brake does no harm.
