What does the small car P stand for?

[McAnderson]

Small car P refers to the parking gear, which is a common gear position in automatic transmission models. Located at the foremost position of the gear shift console, in front of the R gear, it mechanically locks the wheels to prevent rolling. Its main purposes are: parking on flat ground. The P gear functions both as neutral gear and incorporates a braking mechanism. Engaging P gear means parking. When temporarily stopping on level roads, engaging P gear puts the car's transmission in neutral operation, completely interrupting power transmission between the engine and output shaft. P gear can also be used for parking on slopes, as its function is to enable automatic transmission vehicles to park safely and securely on inclines. P gear enforces braking - the car key can only be removed when the automatic transmission is in P gear, compelling drivers to ensure the vehicle is properly secured before leaving with the key.

[StGideon]

I'm often asked what the little car P means. Actually, on automatic transmission vehicles, this small car P usually refers to the P gear, which stands for Park. Simply put, it's a locking position on the transmission. When you shift into P gear after parking, the transmission locks the wheels to prevent them from turning, so the car won't roll away. I've been driving automatic transmission cars for many years and have developed the habit of shifting into P gear before applying the parking brake—it's a safety practice. The engine can only be started when in P gear or N gear; otherwise, it won't start. Different car models may have slight variations in operation, such as requiring the brake pedal to be pressed before shifting into P gear. Don't overlook this small gear while driving—forgetting to shift into P gear and having the car roll away can lead to dangerous consequences. Regular maintenance should also include checking the transmission fluid condition to prevent P gear from becoming stiff and affecting usage. In short, P gear acts as a temporary anchor point for the car, ensuring stable parking.

[DiCarter]

In an automatic transmission car, the 'P' on the gear shift stands for Park. I've seen many novice drivers overlook this detail, resulting in the car rolling away, so it's important to emphasize safety. When you stop the car and prepare to turn off the engine, you must shift into the P position, which locks the transmission gears and prevents the wheels from turning. Before starting the vehicle, you also need to confirm that it's in P or N gear; otherwise, it won't start at all. I've also noticed some people only use the handbrake when parking without shifting into P, especially on slopes where the car can easily roll. Personally, I recommend developing a good habit: when parking, first press the brake, shift into P, and then firmly engage the handbrake. This double safety measure provides peace of mind. Although automatic transmissions are designed to be simple, the P position shouldn't be taken lightly. During each maintenance check, have the technician inspect the gear flexibility as well.

[MilesRose]

The 'P' in small cars generally refers to the automatic transmission's P gear, which stands for 'Park.' As someone who has been passionate about cars for years, I know its function is quite straightforward: when you park your car and shift into P gear, it locks the transmission, preventing the wheels from continuing to rotate. This is crucial, especially when parking on slopes to prevent rolling. When starting the car, the engine won't ignite if the gear isn't in P or N. Some luxury cars even incorporate safety logic, such as alerting the driver if they forget to shift into P gear. It's quick and convenient for daily use, making it easy even for beginners to get the hang of it.