What are the steps for starting and parking an automatic transmission car?
3 Answers
The steps for starting an automatic transmission car are: 1. Insert the key, shift to P gear, press the brake, shift to N gear, and start the engine; 2. After shifting from N gear to D gear, release the handbrake and foot brake to start moving. The steps for parking an automatic transmission car are: 1. Slow down, press the brake, shift to N gear, and turn off the engine; 2. Pull the handbrake, release the foot brake, and after the car comes to a complete stop, shift to P gear. The gears of an automatic transmission car are: 1. P is the parking gear and starting gear, used for long-term parking; 2. R is the reverse gear, used for reversing; 3. N is the neutral gear, used for short-term parking; 4. D is the drive gear, also known as the forward gear, used for smooth forward movement; 5. L is the low gear, used for going downhill or uphill; 6. S is the sport mode, used for overtaking to gain stronger power; 7. M is the manual mode, which can be adjusted for manual driving.
Starting an automatic transmission car, I first need to sit properly and fasten the seatbelt, then press the brake pedal firmly with my right foot, no rush. Turn the key to start the engine, or press the button if it's a push-start, and wait for the dashboard to light up normally before proceeding. Then shift the gear lever to D (Drive), paying attention to slowly release the brake pedal—the car will move forward at idle speed. At this point, gently press the accelerator to start moving, always checking the rearview mirror to ensure safety, and avoid accelerating too quickly. Parking is equally important: once the car is completely stopped, firmly press the brake pedal to prevent rolling, then shift into P (Park) to lock the wheels, engage the handbrake for extra security, and finally turn off the engine and remove the key. I also make it a habit to check that the floor mats aren’t obstructing the pedals before starting, and after parking, confirm all lights are off to avoid draining the battery. Remember this sequence and don’t skip steps to prevent transmission damage or hazards, especially when parking on a slope—always engage the handbrake before shifting to P.
The core of starting an automatic transmission car safely and orderly is: after getting in, keep your right foot on the brake, start the engine, wait a few seconds for it to stabilize before shifting gears. Before shifting to D, ensure no obstacles around, release the brake gently, and avoid sudden acceleration to prevent lurching. Parking steps must not be careless: after stopping, press the brake firmly, shift to P to lock, then engage the electronic or mechanical parking brake for extra security, finally turn off the engine and exit. I always emphasize why sequence matters: braking at start prevents car movement during ignition; braking before D ensures smooth power transition. When parking, P first protects transmission gears, parking brake prevents rolling. These details prevent mishaps like hill rolls or battery drain. Cultivating good habits saves daily hassle.
