What is the function of the P gear?

[VanConnor]

P gear serves the purpose of parking. It utilizes a mechanical device to lock the rotating parts of the car, preventing the vehicle from moving. When the car needs to remain stationary for an extended period or before leaving the vehicle after parking, the handbrake should be engaged and the gear lever pushed into the "P" position. The introduction of car gears is as follows: P gear: Parking gear. The gear lever can only be moved into this position after the car has come to a complete stop, at which point the drive wheels are mechanically locked. R gear: Reverse gear. The gear lever can only be moved into this position after the car has completely stopped, enabling reverse driving. N gear: Neutral gear. After the gear lever is moved into this position, no power is transmitted to the wheels, and the wheels cannot utilize engine braking.

[Levi]

I've been driving automatic transmission cars for ten years and deeply understand the importance of the P gear. P stands for Parking gear, specifically designed to secure the vehicle when parked. After parking and shifting into P gear, it mechanically locks the transmission, preventing the wheels from moving, so the car won't roll away. This is especially crucial on slopes or windy days—without P gear engaged, the car might slide and cause an accident. The operation is simple: after stopping, press the brake pedal to ensure the car is completely stationary, then shift into P gear before turning off the engine and leaving. On slopes, my safest method is to first engage the handbrake, wait for the car to stabilize, and then shift into P gear to reduce stress on the transmission. Also, never shift into P gear while driving—the transmission will make a clicking noise, which can easily cause internal damage. Developing this habit has given me much more peace of mind while driving, especially when taking my kids out—safety always comes first. Everyone should also regularly check their transmission's condition to avoid accidents.

[PatrickLee]

When I first started learning to drive, I was completely confused about the P gear. Later, I understood that the P gear is a special function of automatic transmission cars, used for parking and locking. Simply put, engaging the P gear is like adding a lock to the car to prevent it from rolling on its own. The steps I recommend are: when parking, first firmly press the brake, don't turn off the engine directly in D gear; confirm the car is not moving, then shift into P gear; using the handbrake for extra security is even better. I remember once parking on a slope and relying only on the P gear without pulling the handbrake—the car almost rolled down, which gave me a real scare. Since then, I always use the P gear as the final step when parking. It not only protects the transmission from wear but also prevents the car from being accidentally moved by others. In daily driving, the P gear makes parking more convenient. Just remember to use it only when the car is completely stationary, and never try it while moving. After practicing a few times, you'll get the hang of it.

[Jameson]

I understand that the P gear stands for Parking gear in a car. When engaged, the internal locking system of the transmission activates, securing the gears to prevent the wheels from turning, ensuring the vehicle stays in place. Unlike the Neutral (N) gear, the P gear has a locking function, making it more reliable when parking. When operating: the vehicle must come to a complete stop before shifting into P gear, only then can the engine be turned off. Avoid shifting into P gear while the vehicle is moving, as it can impact the transmission and increase the risk of failure. Simple and practical, it ensures safety.