What are the steps for starting an automatic transmission car on a slope?
3 Answers
Steps for starting an automatic transmission car on a slope: 1. Press the brake pedal firmly with your right foot and start the car; 2. Keep both the foot brake and handbrake engaged, then shift the gear from P to D, wait for about 2 seconds until you feel the car's body shake more significantly, indicating that the car has forward power but is held back by the brakes; 3. Press the button on the handbrake with your right hand but do not release it yet, slowly release the foot brake, move your right foot to the accelerator pedal, at this point the car is still held by the handbrake, gradually press the accelerator, and when you feel the car start to move forward, release the handbrake and continue to accelerate. Some cars have a hill-start assist function, which eliminates the need to control the handbrake during start-up, as the car will automatically release the handbrake at the appropriate time, making the operation simpler.
When I first learned to drive, hill starts made my heart race. After stopping the car, I firmly pressed the brake pedal, then shifted the gear lever to D position to prevent any rolling back. Then, slowly releasing the brake, you'll feel the car body tremble slightly, as if reminding you it's time to act; at this moment, immediately tap the accelerator pedal lightly to provide power while fully releasing the brake. If the slope is too steep, like in mountainous areas, I always prefer to use the handbrake: after stopping, press the brake, pull up the handbrake lever, shift into D gear, gently press the accelerator until you feel the car is about to move, then lightly release the handbrake to move forward. During my novice period, I rolled back a few times, which was terrifying; later, I practiced in an empty parking lot to get the hang of it. Remember, don't rush to press the accelerator, gentle operation is safer, otherwise the car might lurch forward and cause a rear-end collision.
When starting on a slope with an automatic transmission, I never worry about this issue. Just park the car, press the brake, and shift to D gear. Then gently release the brake a little, wait for the car to move forward slightly, and immediately press the accelerator lightly to go up; don't press too hard, maintain a steady power output. For steep slopes, using the handbrake is essential: first press the brake, pull the handbrake tight, and shift to D; release the foot brake and press the accelerator, then release the handbrake lever when the car moves. I often drive on mountain roads, and this technique is both effortless and safe. The key is to time it right and avoid engine idling; beginners just need to practice a few times to get the hang of it. Also, maintain a safe distance to avoid rolling back and disturbing the car behind.
