What are the disadvantages of shifting to P gear after turning off the engine in N gear?

2 Answers
McKevin
09/02/25 8:20am
The disadvantage of shifting to P gear after turning off the engine in N gear is that under this operation, the vehicle may slightly move forward or backward due to uneven road surfaces, causing some impact on the transmission gears. Over time, this may lead to loosening of the transmission gears. Here is an extended explanation about parking: 1. Generally, two gears are used for parking: one is the P gear (Parking gear), which works by using a mechanical device to lock the rotating parts of the car, preventing it from moving. When parking for a long time, it is necessary to tighten the handbrake and shift to P gear. The other is the N gear (Neutral gear), which is equivalent to the neutral gear in a manual transmission. It is usually used when waiting at a red light or temporarily parking. Of course, to prevent the vehicle from sliding, remember to step on the brake when in N gear. 2. The correct sequence for parking an automatic transmission car: First, step on the brake to stop the car—shift to N gear—pull the handbrake—shift to P gear—turn off the engine and remove the key. Simply put, first step on the brake to stop the car, then shift to N gear to park. Remember not to release the brake during this time, then pull the handbrake. At this point, you can slightly release the brake to check if the car rolls, to determine if the handbrake is tight. Step on the brake again and shift to P gear, then slightly release the brake to check. Finally, step on the brake to turn off the engine and remove the key, then release the foot brake and exit the car.
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StGemma
09/15/25 3:26am
As a seasoned driver with decades of experience, I deeply understand the importance of operational sequence. The most concerning issue when shifting to P after turning off the engine in N is vehicle sliding, especially on slopes. If the car isn't secured after engine shutdown, it may roll down the slope. Attempting to engage P in this situation forces the transmission's locking mechanism to abruptly stop the gears, creating massive impact - like slamming brakes on moving wheels. Over time, this accelerates gear wear. I recall once making this mistake in front of a friend's house - the car rolled back half a meter, fortunately hitting nothing. The proper procedure is: after stopping completely, shift to N first, firmly engage the parking brake to lock the wheels, then press brake pedal to shift to P, finally turn off ignition. Developing this habit helps avoid unnecessary repair costs and accident risks, particularly during winter when roads are icy.
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