
The steps to start an automatic transmission car are: 1. Turn the key through the ACC position and stop at the ON position for about 5 seconds, ensuring the car is in P or N gear; 2. After waiting at the ON position for about 5 seconds, turn the key to the START position to ignite, and release immediately upon hearing the car engine start, allowing the key to automatically return to the ON position; 3. Then, press the foot brake, shift the gear to D, release the handbrake, and then release the foot brake. Automatic transmission vehicles will automatically select the appropriate gear based on driving speed and traffic conditions. Generally, automatic transmission cars have six gear positions, from top to bottom: P, R, N, D, S, L.

Starting an automatic transmission car is actually quite simple. This is how I've been doing it for ten years: First, adjust the seat to a comfortable position after getting in, keep your foot firmly on the brake pedal, make sure the gear is in P (Park), then turn the key to start the engine (for keyless ignition, just press the button). Wait for the dashboard self-check to complete and the RPM to stabilize. With your right foot still on the brake, shift the gear lever to D (Drive), then release the handbrake (press the button for electronic handbrake, or push down the lever for mechanical ones). Gradually release the brake pedal, and the car will start moving slowly. Beginners often forget to press the brake before shifting gears, which can cause the transmission to make clunking noises. Some people also like to floor the accelerator right after starting, which is particularly harmful to the engine when it's cold. I prefer to warm up the car for about half a minute before driving.

Driving an automatic transmission vehicle requires developing safe habits. Here's my routine: Fasten the seatbelt upon entering the driver's seat and ensure the parking brake is engaged. Firmly depress the brake pedal with your right foot before starting the engine - push the start button for keyless models or turn the traditional key to the ignition position. Pay special attention to the instrument cluster; after the oil and battery warning lights go out, keep the gear in P position, firmly press the brake, then smoothly shift to D. For electronic parking brakes, they'll release automatically when disengaged, while mechanical ones require pressing the release button to lower. Before moving, take a final glance at the mirrors, gently release the brake to allow natural creep, then lightly press the accelerator to gain speed. The most crucial aspect is foot coordination - never shift gears without fully depressing the brake pedal.

For young drivers like me who drive automatic transmissions, I can teach you in just one minute: Sit in the driver's seat, keep your foot on the brake, press the one-touch start button for two seconds (for key ignition, turn it all the way). Make sure the gear is in P, and it's best to let the car warm up for a few seconds before shifting to D. Most new cars now come with an auto-hold function—once you shift to D, the electronic parking brake releases automatically, and you can move your right foot from the brake to the accelerator to drive off. However, note that older cars require manually releasing the parking brake, or it will damage the brake pads. Never start the car in N gear—though it can ignite, the car may roll. Starting in D or R is strictly prohibited, as it can instantly ruin the transmission.


