Should You Release the Handbrake or Shift Gears First When Starting an Automatic Transmission Car?
2 Answers
When starting an automatic transmission car, you should shift gears first. The steps for starting are: 1. Insert the key, shift to P gear, press the brake, shift to N gear, and start the engine; 2. After shifting from N to D gear, release the handbrake and foot brake to start moving. The steps for parking an automatic transmission car are: 1. Slow down, press the brake, shift to N gear, and turn off the engine; 2. Pull the handbrake, release the foot brake, and once the car is completely stationary, shift to P gear. Important driving tips for automatic transmission cars include: 1. Do not coast in neutral; 2. Do not shift gears before the car comes to a complete stop; 3. Warm up the vehicle appropriately; 4. When parking for an extended period, shift to P gear and engage the handbrake. An automatic transmission car is one where the driver does not need to manually shift gears, as the vehicle automatically selects the appropriate gear based on speed and traffic conditions.
I've been driving automatic transmission cars for over a decade and believe the starting sequence is quite important. Here's what we usually do: After starting the engine, keep your right foot on the brake while the gear remains in P. Then use your right hand to shift the lever to D position, press the parking brake button and release the handbrake. This sequence is better for the transmission because the moment you shift to D, the car tends to lurch forward slightly. If the handbrake is still engaged, it forces the transmission to work under strain, which can cause wear over time. This operation is especially gentler for the car during cold winter starts. I've seen friends releasing the handbrake while shifting gears - it might be fine short-term, but making it a habit isn't good for the car.
