What Are the Consequences of Starting the Engine in Gear?
4 Answers
Starting the engine while in gear can damage the car's starter motor and parking brake, as well as cause wear and tear on other mechanical components. It may also lead to the vehicle lurching forward, potentially resulting in an accident. The car should always be in neutral when starting, except on steep slopes where being in gear can prevent the vehicle from rolling backward. Here are some tips for shifting gears in a car: 1. Shift gears according to the car's speed; 2. If the vehicle starts to shake, immediately downshift by one or two gears based on the situation; 3. Coordinate the clutch and throttle properly when shifting gears; 4. Master the correct hand position for shifting: palm facing down, covering the gear lever head, and gripping it firmly with all five fingers; 5. Ensure the gear is fully engaged when shifting.
Starting the engine while in gear is extremely dangerous. Imagine firing up the engine while in drive or reverse—the car could lurch forward or backward instantly, potentially crashing into walls, other vehicles, or pedestrians with disastrous consequences. Beyond safety risks, it wreaks havoc on the transmission and starter motor. Gears may grind or wear prematurely, leading to costly repairs that easily run into thousands. I know someone who did this—their transmission developed abnormal noises, creating constant rattles while driving, and the multi-day repair caused major disruptions. Always confirm the car is in neutral or Park before ignition—make it a habit to check the gear position. Manual transmissions are more prone to this issue, while automatics usually have shift-lock mechanisms (though they’re not foolproof). New drivers often make this mistake, so remind yourself: brake firmly and shift carefully before starting. Safe driving starts with details—don’t risk major consequences over minor oversights.
This issue reminds me of a lesson from my own driving experience. When I was young, I once started the car in gear, causing it to lurch forward suddenly and nearly crash into a roadside shop, which scared me into a cold sweat. Not only does this pose an accident risk, but it also damages the clutch. The starting system of an automatic transmission bears extra stress, while a manual transmission is more prone to gear teeth breakage. The repair bill can make you regret it, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand. Now I've developed a good habit: always ensure the car is in neutral before starting, especially on rainy days or when parked on a slope. Observing other drivers, both novices and experienced ones can be careless, so I recommend everyone check the gear position before starting. By the way, it's even scarier when there are passengers in the car, like family members in the front seat, as accidental movement can easily injure them. Driving is a responsibility—safety first.
Starting the car in gear? The car might suddenly move, which is dangerous and harmful to the vehicle. My friend once did this—his manual transmission lurched forward and hit a utility pole, costing over two thousand to repair the transmission. The starter motor was also burnt out, making replacement a hassle. This is a common issue, especially for inexperienced drivers who might overlook it. Remember, no matter what car you drive, always shift to neutral or P before starting. Don’t rush; make it a habit for peace of mind. Pressing the brake and shifting before starting can prevent accidents. Financially, repair costs aren’t cheap, but safety is even more important—avoid harming yourself or others. Don’t neglect simple procedures; a car’s health depends on daily attention.
