What is the gear lever button on an automatic transmission car?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission car gear lever button is a lock button. When the switch is in the ON state, the high gear of the forward gear of the engine will be forcibly locked, which means that if it is a 4AT, it can only be shifted to 3rd gear at this time; Conversely, when the switch is in the OFF state, the gear lock will be canceled. The function of the lock button: to avoid the transmission making incorrect judgments in certain situations and frequently jumping between high gear and sub-high gear, it can be understood as a protective measure. The unlock button is a completely mechanical device. Press it with your thumb, and you can move the gear selector lever only after leaving the groove or stepping up the step. You don't need to press it when stepping down.
Over the years I've been driving, that button on the automatic gearshift lever is a crucial safety design. It's usually located on the top or side of the lever and must be pressed when shifting gears. The primary function is to prevent accidental gear changes - for instance, when shifting from Park (P) to Drive (D) or Reverse (R), you need to press the button to unlock the lever. This prevents accidental activation by children or pets that could lead to accidents. I've also noticed you must press the brake pedal while operating the button, otherwise the gearshift might not engage. Most buttons are made of wear-resistant plastic or metal materials that resist aging. In some cars, especially Japanese brands, the button placement is ergonomically designed for smooth operation. Overall, this feature significantly enhances driving confidence, particularly improving safety during parking and starting maneuvers.