What are the steps for starting an automatic transmission car?
2 Answers
The steps for starting an automatic transmission car are: 1. Turn the ignition key to the second position (accessory mode) to allow the car's computer system to perform self-check for at least 6 seconds. 2. Press the foot brake and shift the gear from P (Park) to N (Neutral). 3. Release the foot brake and turn the ignition key to the start position to ignite the engine. 4. After prolonged parking, it's recommended to warm up the engine for 1-2 minutes while stationary. 5. Press the foot brake and shift from N (Neutral) to D (Drive), then release the parking brake (for electronic parking brake, simply press the button briefly). 6. Gradually release the foot brake to start moving. 7. According to road conditions, smoothly press the accelerator to increase speed and drive safely.
Starting an automatic transmission car is actually quite simple. First, sit in the driver's seat and adjust the seat and mirrors, then fasten your seatbelt—these are the basics of safety. Next, press the brake pedal with your right foot, start the engine, and listen to the sound to ensure it's running normally. Before shifting gears, make sure the gear is in P (Park), then press the shift button and gently pull it to D (Drive). If it's an electronic parking brake, remember to press the button to release it; for a traditional handbrake, fully lower the lever. Don’t rush to move just yet—turn your head to check the side mirrors and windows, especially for any pedestrians or vehicles in blind spots. Once you confirm it's safe, slowly release the brake, and the car will start moving on its own—this is the automatic transmission’s creep function. Finally, gently press the accelerator to smoothly accelerate, remembering to signal in advance. I usually practice a few more times in the parking lot to get a feel for the accelerator sensitivity.