Will an Automatic Car Roll Without the Handbrake?
2 Answers
An automatic car will roll without the handbrake. Here is the relevant information: Engaging P gear: An automatic car will not roll after being turned off and shifted into P gear, provided the vehicle is parked on level ground. This is because the P gear in an automatic transmission is a locking gear. P gear is a special neutral position that mechanically locks part of the transmission output shaft to secure the vehicle, functioning as a parking brake to prevent movement. On slopes: If the slope is steep, the force generated by the vehicle's own weight may exceed the locking force, causing the car to roll. Therefore, it is recommended to engage the handbrake in addition to shifting into P gear for automatic cars.
When I first started driving, I was particularly worried about this. New drivers often ask if an automatic car will roll away without the handbrake on, and the answer is yes, especially on slight slopes. The P gear mainly locks the transmission, but on steep slopes or slippery ground after rain, gravity can pull the wheels and cause the car to slide. Once, I forgot to pull the handbrake on a slope, and the car almost rolled into a ditch—fortunately, I noticed in time. After forming the habit, it feels super simple: pull the handbrake every time you park—a one-second action to prevent accidents. This also protects transmission components and extends their lifespan. In the city, with frequent stops and starts in traffic, I always remind myself not to be lazy. A friend suggested that when parking on a slope, it’s safer to press the foot brake first, then shift to P gear, and finally pull the handbrake. Safety is no small matter, so I treat every parking as a little practice. In short, don’t skip this small step—it avoids big trouble.
