Which gear should be used when pushing an automatic transmission car?
3 Answers
Automatic transmission cars should be pushed in the N (Neutral) gear. Below is an introduction to automatic transmissions: Operating principle: The engine's power is transmitted through the gearbox, which is also a key factor affecting fuel consumption. Generally, automatic transmissions consume 10% more fuel than manual transmissions. Whether manual or automatic, more gears mean better fuel efficiency. Driving technique: For manual transmission cars, upshifting should be done at higher RPMs. Engines are designed to operate at higher RPMs, with parameters like dynamic balance and rotational inertia optimized for high-speed operation. Prolonged operation at abnormal RPMs increases internal component stress and wear, often leading to vibration and knocking, which affects engine lifespan. Using 3000 RPM as the upshift point ensures post-shift operation at around 2300 RPM, keeping the engine within its healthy operating range.
I've been driving for decades and have experienced pushing a car many times, such as when the battery is dead or there's a minor malfunction. Before pushing the car, you must shift the gear to N (neutral), as it allows the wheels to roll freely without damaging the transmission. If the car is in P (park), pushing it is like pulling a locked chain, which can damage the internal gears. The engine must be turned off; otherwise, the wheels will be tightly bound. Find a helper to push from behind while you steer the wheel, and don’t push too fast. For safety, choose a flat surface to push—slopes can easily lead to accidents. After pushing the car, remember to check the root cause of the problem, such as the battery or wiring, to avoid recurrence. In short, make it a habit to shift to N to protect your beloved car and save trouble.
When pushing the car, I simply put it in N gear. For example, last time my car battery died, a friend helped push it while I sat inside with the car in neutral, allowing the wheels to roll smoothly. If left in P gear, pushing would be much harder and could potentially damage components. Before pushing, turn off the engine and have someone assist—one person pushes while the other steers. Push slowly to avoid losing control and hitting something. Pushing is an emergency solution; don’t rely on it often. After pushing, visit a repair shop to check the battery or charging system. Frequent pushing isn’t good for the chassis, so knowing gear positions is crucial to avoid panic in emergencies.
