Which gear should be engaged when warming up an automatic transmission car?
2 Answers
When warming up an automatic transmission car, you should engage the P (Park) gear. The reasons are as follows: 1. For automatic transmission models, when the vehicle is just started, idling to warm up requires engaging the P gear. After one minute, drive slowly at low speed for a period of time to allow the steering system, braking system, differential system, suspension system, etc., to properly "warm up" and achieve corresponding relief and recovery, avoiding abnormal wear due to insufficient lubrication of these parts. This is also beneficial and harmless to the various mechanical systems of the vehicle. 2. The P gear is safe enough as it locks the tires, and the engine speed is slightly higher in P gear, allowing the car to warm up faster. Precautions for warming up an automatic transmission car: 1. The warm-up time should not exceed one and a half minutes, and after starting, the engine speed should be around 2500 rpm. Drive slowly for a period of time before driving normally. 2. Automatic transmission cars can only be started in P or N (Neutral) gear; warming up is not possible in other gears.
Parking in P gear is the safest when warming up the car. I often do this because the P gear prevents the vehicle from moving, allowing the engine to idle and warm up. Although modern cars don’t require prolonged warm-up, idling for a few seconds to a minute after a cold start is beneficial for engine protection. Engaging P gear is simple: start the car while pressing the brake, then shift to P gear. Avoid D gear, as releasing the foot from the throttle may cause the car to creep slowly, potentially leading to an accident. N gear is also an option, but P gear locks more securely, especially on slopes to prevent rolling. Regular maintenance and inspections can minimize issues, but the key is to drive at low speeds for a few minutes after a quick warm-up for better effectiveness.