Should You Shift Gears or Engage the Handbrake First When Starting an Automatic Transmission Car?
2 Answers
When starting an automatic transmission car, you should shift gears first and then release the handbrake. The starting procedure is as follows: 1. Press the start button or turn the key to start the vehicle; 2. With your right foot on the brake pedal, release the handbrake; 3. Shift the gear from P (Park) to D (Drive); 4. After shifting to D, slowly lift your right foot off the brake pedal. The gears of an automatic transmission car are: 1. P (Park) or starting gear: used for long-term parking; 2. R (Reverse): used for reversing; 3. N (Neutral): used for short-term parking; 4. D (Drive), also known as the driving gear: used for smooth forward movement of the vehicle; 5. L (Low): used for downhill or uphill driving; 6. S (Sport mode): provides stronger power for overtaking; 7. M (Manual mode): can be adjusted for manual driving.
With over thirty years of driving experience, I've learned a crucial habit for automatic transmission: always release the parking brake before shifting into gear to start. This prevents the car from rolling backward, especially on slopes, which could otherwise lead to accidents. I remember during my novice days, once shifting into gear before releasing the handbrake caused the car to lurch forward suddenly, nearly hitting a guardrail. That incident taught me the critical importance of this sequence. It's not just about safety—it also protects the transmission by avoiding frequent internal part wear from abrupt shocks. I recommend practicing on flat surfaces: gently hold the brake, release the handbrake, then shift to D and accelerate. Making this second nature ensures smoother, worry-free driving with better stability on rainy slippery roads. Never underestimate this detail—it significantly enhances the driving experience.
