Which One is the Accelerator and Brake in an Automatic Transmission Car?
2 Answers
In an automatic transmission car, the left pedal is the brake, and the right one is the accelerator. The brake, also known as the stopping device, refers to the action that stops or reduces the speed of running locomotives, vehicles, and other transportation tools or machinery, which is achieved through the friction between the brake pads and the brake drum. The accelerator, also called the throttle or air valve, is the control device that regulates the engine's power. It is operated by the driver in the cockpit via the throttle lever, which transmits through the control system components to the carburetor or fuel regulator on the engine for control. Automatic transmission means that the driver does not need to manually shift gears; the vehicle will automatically select the appropriate gear based on the driving speed and traffic conditions.
When I first learned to drive, I was most afraid of confusing the positions of the accelerator and brake. In an automatic car, the accelerator is the pedal on the far right—you press it to accelerate; the brake is on the left, and pressing it slows you down. The key is to always use your right foot to operate both pedals, not your left, as that can lead to confusion or slower reactions. I recommend that beginners practice in an open area, like gently pressing the accelerator to feel the acceleration, then trying the brake to slow down. Once familiar, it’s much safer to drive on the road. Develop the habit of resting your foot lightly on the brake when not accelerating to prepare for emergencies. Remember, mistakenly pressing the accelerator is a common cause of accidents for beginners—mastering this early can avoid many dangers. Regularly check the driving manual to understand your car’s specific design; the positions of the accelerator and brake are designed to prevent simultaneous operation, ensuring more stable driving.
