What is the small button on the automatic transmission gear lever?
2 Answers
The small button on the automatic transmission gear lever is the gear lock, also known as the lock button. Its functions are: 1. To prevent the driver from shifting gears by mistake. If the gear is shifted incorrectly, the vehicle may move forward or backward unexpectedly, which could lead to an accident. 2. To protect the transmission, prevent damage to the transmission gears, and extend the lifespan of the transmission. There are several situations where this button needs to be pressed: 1. When shifting into R (Reverse) gear; 2. When shifting out of P (Park) gear; 3. When shifting into P (Park) gear. In these three scenarios, the button must be pressed to shift gears, meaning that gears which could potentially cause reverse impact to the transmission will be locked, and the lock button must be pressed to unlock during shifting.
That small button on the car's gear lever, which I've always called the shift lock button, is a safety mechanism designed for modern automatic transmission vehicles. In principle, it connects the brake pedal and the gear lever lock: only when you press the brake pedal can this button be pressed to unlock the gear lever, allowing you to smoothly shift from P (Park) to R, D, or other gears. This system works through a small electromagnetic lock or mechanical linkage to prevent the gear lever from accidentally sliding before driving or while parked, such as when the car suddenly moves on a steep slope or when someone is pushing the vehicle. Engineers designed it to reduce the risk of misoperation and enhance driving safety. If not checked regularly, dust accumulation or aging components inside the button can cause unresponsive operation, so remember to test its function briefly during each maintenance to ensure smooth linkage.
