Which side is the brake on an automatic transmission car?

[VonPeter]

In an automatic transmission car, the brake is located on the left side, positioned below the driver's seat and the console. The brake, also known as the stopping device, refers to the action that halts or reduces the speed of moving locomotives, vehicles, other transport tools, or machinery. Its working principle involves generating significant friction by utilizing the interaction between the brake pads and discs, as well as the tires and the ground. This converts the kinetic energy of the moving vehicle into thermal energy through friction, thereby stopping the rotating parts. Automatic transmission cars eliminate the need for drivers to manually shift gears; instead, the vehicle automatically selects the appropriate gear based on driving speed and traffic conditions. The gear positions include: P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), D (Drive), S (Sport), and L (Low).

[AliceDella]

I still remember when I first started driving, the instructor repeatedly emphasized that automatic transmission cars only have two pedals: the left one is the brake, and the right one is the accelerator. I used to mix them up and would press the wrong one when nervous—fortunately, it was just in the practice area. After a few practice sessions, I memorized that stepping on the left controls deceleration and stopping, while stepping on the right accelerates forward. This design is quite reasonable because most people are right-foot dominant, so controlling both pedals with one foot feels natural; the left foot usually stays idle, unlike in manual transmissions where it manages the clutch. For beginners, I suggest practicing pedal switching in an empty area at low speeds to develop the habit of using the right foot—safety first, don’t panic like I did the first time. Once you get used to it, the brake position feels very intuitive, especially during emergency braking, where a single press can stop the car, reducing the risk of accidents.

[EmersynLynn]

Having driven for decades, the brake pedal of an automatic transmission is always on the left, right next to the accelerator, allowing my right foot to switch between them effortlessly. I’ve never encountered an exception, whether in an SUV or a sedan. This uniform design makes sense: international standards place the brake on the left and the accelerator on the right to avoid confusion while driving. The left foot stays idle, ensuring safety and reducing fatigue. For beginners unsure about the pedals, I recommend lightly tapping them to feel the difference—the brake pedal is larger and sturdier in shape, instantly slowing the car when pressed. In city driving, I often use this method to coast smoothly toward traffic lights. Once you memorize their positions, you won’t make mistakes. Over time, your foot naturally remembers their placement, turning it into a reflex action, just like riding a bicycle.

[MacGemma]

In automatic transmission cars, the brake is on the left and the accelerator is on the right. I've driven various models, and they're all like this. The reason is quite simple: it's a globally standardized design to prevent operational errors; keeping the left foot stationary and using the right foot to control both pedals is the safest approach. With regular practice, such as slowly starting on an empty road, moving the right foot to the accelerator to speed up, and shifting left to the brake to slow down, you'll quickly memorize it. I've also noticed that some cars have anti-slip patterns on the pedals, with the brake pedal being thicker and larger to help distinguish them. Once you get used to it, the pedal feel becomes very familiar, ensuring no mistakes when stopping or in emergencies.