Will an Automatic Transmission Car Move Without Accelerating?

[DeJayla]

An automatic transmission car will move without pressing the accelerator because it lacks a clutch pedal. When the gear is shifted into a driving position, the clutch is already engaged, allowing the car to move forward slowly in the absence of braking resistance. However, if the gear is set to the parking position, the car will not move forward. More relevant information is as follows: 1. Definition of Torque Converter: Regardless of how the brake is released when starting an automatic transmission vehicle, the car will move forward without stalling, thanks to the power transmission device inside the automatic transmission, known as the torque converter. 2. Location of Torque Converter: The torque converter is located between the engine and the transmission, which is the position of the clutch in a manual transmission.

[JourneyLee]

I've been driving automatic transmission cars for over a decade, and many beginners often ask this question. Actually, the car can move without pressing the accelerator, especially when in D or R gear. The engine's idle power makes the car crawl slowly, which is particularly noticeable in parking lots or traffic jams, saving foot effort. However, note that the speed is very slow, roughly at a walking pace, and you might need to tap the accelerator on slopes to prevent rolling back. I think this feature is an advantage of automatic transmissions, making driving easier, especially for beginners. But don't rely on it too much—urban traffic is complex, and slow reactions in emergencies can lead to accidents. I've also encountered some older cars that might not move when idling too low, in which case the engine or transmission should be checked.

[DiHarper]

The working principle of automatic transmissions allows the vehicle to move without pressing the accelerator. The engine generates torque at idle speed, which is transmitted to the wheels through the torque converter, causing the car to move slowly—this is called the creeping effect. I often utilize this feature at low speeds, such as when queuing at traffic lights; releasing the brake lets the car glide forward on its own, which feels quite smart. Compared to manual transmissions, which require pressing the clutch to prevent stalling, automatics are much simpler. This is thanks to design optimizations that ensure smooth starts and reduce the risk of stalling. However, remember that the creeping speed is low, so don’t expect to go fast. On steep slopes, you might need to apply a bit of throttle. Overall, it’s safe and controllable, but regular maintenance is recommended to ensure the health of the powertrain.

[VonJessica]

An automatic transmission car can indeed move without pressing the accelerator. I always remind my friends that this feature is very convenient in city traffic jams, as the car will slowly creep forward on its own. However, be cautious on steep slopes or sharp turns, as the car might roll backward on significant inclines or fail to react in time when pedestrians are nearby. Safety first—keep your hands on the steering wheel and your foot near the brake, just in case. In daily driving, this function is hassle-free, but don’t let your guard down; new owners should practice low-speed control more. If the car abnormally doesn’t move, check the idle settings or transmission condition, and don’t delay repairs.