Should You Shift Gear or Engage the Handbrake First in an Automatic Transmission?
3 Answers
When starting a car with an automatic transmission, it is recommended to shift gear first and then engage the handbrake. The safest way to start an automatic transmission car is to first press the foot brake, then shift into D gear, release the handbrake followed by the foot brake, and finally press the accelerator to complete the start-up. Some models are equipped with an electronic handbrake, which will automatically disengage when the accelerator is pressed. Here is more information about the handbrake: 1. The handbrake primarily functions by activating the braking system to secure the vehicle. Starting the car by shifting gear first and then engaging the handbrake allows for a stable start. 2. When parking, it is necessary to engage the handbrake first and then shift into P gear. In this scenario, the braking work is completed by the braking system, while the P gear mainly serves as an auxiliary function, allowing the internal components to be in a completely relaxed state, thereby better maintaining the car's parts and preventing excessive wear. 3. The gear positions in an automatic transmission are relatively simple: D gear is for driving forward, R gear is for reversing, N gear is neutral, and P gear is the parking gear.
I've been driving for over a decade, and every time I start an automatic transmission car, I always make it a habit to release the handbrake before shifting gears. The reason is simple: if you shift into gear first, such as D or R, the car might roll on a slope, causing unnecessary danger or excessive pressure on the transmission; releasing the handbrake first ensures the vehicle is stable and won't move suddenly. Especially when parking on a slope, this sequence is particularly crucial. Once, I forgot to release the handbrake before shifting on a slope, which resulted in accelerated brake pad wear and cost me several hundred dollars in repairs. My routine operation is to start the engine in P gear, ensure the vehicle is secure, release the handbrake, and then smoothly shift into the driving gear. This not only protects the vehicle's components and extends their lifespan but also ensures zero accidents while driving. After forming this habit, I feel more at ease and smoother in my driving, without worrying about unexpected issues disrupting my journey.
I drive an automatic transmission car for daily commuting and got used to releasing the handbrake first before shifting gears. In city driving with frequent traffic lights, if I engage D-gear before releasing the handbrake, the car may lurch forward or jerk, which could startle other drivers. My routine is: after starting the engine, check the dashboard, gently press the brake pedal to release the handbrake, then shift to D-gear to move off. The whole process takes just seconds, but the correct sequence ensures smooth and safe operation. A friend once tried the reverse order and heard strange noises during startup, reminding me why strict operation matters. Actually, automatic transmission simplifies driving, but basic details shouldn't be overlooked. Otherwise, on congested streets, a minor mistake might cause rear-end collisions or part wear, increasing maintenance hassles. So every time I restart after parking, I remind myself: handbrake off first, then gearshift - it's both worry-free and effortless.
