Should You Shift Gear or Release the Handbrake First When Starting an Automatic Transmission Car?
2 Answers
When starting an automatic transmission vehicle, you should shift the gear first and then release the handbrake, as this is the safest operating sequence. Here is some information about automatic transmission cars: Automatic transmission: As the name suggests, it 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, automatic transmission cars have six gear positions, from top to bottom: P, R, N, D, S, L. Driving tips: For manual transmission cars, you should shift gears at higher RPMs. The engine is designed to operate at higher RPMs, and parameters such as dynamic balance and rotational inertia of various components are also designed with high RPMs as the reference value. If the engine operates for a long time under abnormal working conditions, the load and wear on internal components will naturally increase, leading to frequent occurrences of shaking and knocking, which can also affect the engine's lifespan. Choosing 3000 RPM as the shifting RPM ensures that the engine operates within a healthy RPM range after shifting, typically around 2300 RPM.
I remember when I first learned to drive an automatic, I was quite nervous, afraid of messing up the start. The instructor always emphasized the sequence: first press the brake to start the engine, then shift to D gear smoothly, and finally release the handbrake. This way, the car won't suddenly jerk or roll, especially when parked on a slope. After driving more, I found this sequence became instinctive. It ensures a smooth connection of the powertrain and protects the transmission. If beginners do it the other way around, like releasing the handbrake before shifting, the car might slide uncontrollably, causing injury or damaging parts. Now I often share this experience, telling people that good habits prevent trouble. After all, safety comes first when driving, and small details can prevent accidents.
