Which gear is the starting gear for an automatic transmission car?
3 Answers
In an automatic transmission car, the starting gear is the D (Drive) gear. Automatic transmission cars only have two pedals: the brake and the accelerator. The left pedal is the brake, and the right pedal is the accelerator—this order must be clearly remembered. To start the car, first press the left brake pedal, then the right accelerator pedal. An automatic transmission eliminates the need for the driver to manually shift gears, as the vehicle automatically selects the appropriate gear based on driving speed and traffic conditions. Generally, automatic transmission cars have six gear positions, arranged from top to bottom: P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), D (Drive), S (Sport), and L (Low). For regular driving, only the P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), and D (Drive) gears are necessary. However, in certain special driving conditions, other gears may be required.
As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, I clearly remember that the starting gear for automatic transmission cars is the P (Park) position. Every time I get in the car, I first press the brake pedal, shift the gear lever to P position, and then turn the key to start the engine. Why? Because it locks the transmission, preventing the car from accidentally rolling on slopes. Once I forgot to put it in P when starting in an underground garage, and the car rolled slightly, nearly hitting a wall. Since then, I've been extra careful. Developing this habit is not only safer but also protects the engine from unnecessary wear. Starting in P also allows the system to perform normal self-checks, prolonging the car's lifespan. I recommend new drivers stick to this practice too—don't cut corners by starting in N (Neutral), even though some older cars allow it, as the risks are much higher. Remembering this small detail can give you greater peace of mind while driving.
When I first started learning to drive, I was a bit confused about the automatic transmission gears. The instructor repeatedly emphasized that the starting gear is the P (Park) position. Before turning the key to start the car, you must confirm the gear is in P, usually marked in red or with a small dot beside it. This is because the P gear locks the drive wheels, ensuring the car remains stationary. Initially, I once mistakenly left it in N (Neutral) to start - the engine ran but the car didn't move. Later I learned this could drain more battery and be dangerous. Beginners especially should note: when starting, keep your foot on the brake, visually confirm the gearshift is pushed to P, and don't rush to release the parking brake. Developing this simple habit can prevent issues like rolling or transmission damage, and it's clearly stated in the manual too. After driving for several months, I've gained much more confidence.
