Which gear should an automatic transmission car be in when parked for a long time without turning off the engine?

[NoahDella]

If an automatic transmission car's engine is left running for a long time without turning it off, you can shift into N (Neutral) gear and engage the handbrake, or shift into P (Park) gear and firmly engage the handbrake. Both N and P gears can be used when parking, but there are differences between the two. The N gear does not have a locking mechanism, while the P gear does. When shifted into P gear, the locking mechanism inside the transmission locks the gear, effectively locking the wheels indirectly. Once in P gear, the car will not roll even if the brake pedal is not pressed. When shifted into N gear, the transmission's locking mechanism does not engage, and if the brake pedal is not pressed, the car may roll. Here are the considerations for shifting gears in different scenarios for automatic transmission cars: Normal driving: There are no specific requirements for gear selection; you can drive continuously in D (Drive) gear. D gear stands for "Drive." When shifted into this gear, pressing the accelerator allows the car to move. In this gear, the transmission automatically shifts based on speed and throttle input. At traffic lights, you can remain in D gear while pressing the brake pedal. Parking: When the engine is turned off, shift into P (Park) gear to indicate the car is no longer in use. Some cars require shifting into P gear to remove the key. P gear stands for "Parking." It is used when parking or stopping the car for an extended period. Note: Always ensure the car is completely stopped before shifting into P gear. Shifting into P gear before the car has fully stopped can damage the transmission. In P gear, the wheels are mechanically locked, preventing the car from moving forward or backward, which is especially important when parking on slopes. However, avoid shifting into P gear during brief stops (e.g., at traffic lights) to prevent severe transmission damage in case of a rear-end collision. Reversing: After pressing the brake pedal and ensuring the car has stopped moving forward, shift into R (Reverse) gear. Gently releasing the brake pedal will allow the car to move backward. R gear stands for "Reverse." Whether in a manual or automatic transmission, R is the reverse gear. Shift into R gear only when the car is stationary and the engine is idling. Never use R gear while the car is moving forward, and be cautious with accelerator control when reversing. Waiting in traffic: When stopped in traffic or driving in congested areas, shift into N (Neutral) gear. N gear stands for "Neutral." At traffic lights, you can shift into this gear while pressing the brake pedal. For longer waits, engage the handbrake to rest your foot. A common misconception is that shifting into N gear while coasting downhill or at high speeds saves fuel. This is incorrect and can damage the transmission. Highway driving or overtaking: Shift into S (Sport) gear for high-speed overtaking. S gear is the car's sport mode, allowing free gear changes like D gear. It is also useful for climbing hills, as it provides maximum torque output and acceleration.