Will an Automatic Transmission Car Move Without Pressing the Accelerator After Starting?

[KingstonLee]

Under normal circumstances, when the vehicle is in D gear, it will move forward without pressing the accelerator. Below are the reasons why the car moves in D gear without pressing the accelerator: Related to Power: As long as the engine is running, pressing or not pressing the accelerator only affects the amount of power output, not whether power is output. As long as the engine has power, the car will move forward. Only when in neutral gear will the car stop moving forward. Related to Fuel Supply: Modern vehicles are fuel-injected cars. After engaging the gear and gently releasing the clutch, the car's computer will automatically adjust and increase the fuel supply. Even if the accelerator pedal is not pressed, fuel is actually being supplied, so the car will move on its own. Once steady, pressing the accelerator allows for normal driving.

[HavenRose]

Having driven automatic transmission cars for so many years, I've been curious about this question from the very beginning. I remember when I first learned to drive, after starting on a flat road and releasing the brake, the car would slowly creep forward, like a turtle crawling. This isn't called pressing the accelerator to move forward; it's the so-called "creep function." Most automatic transmission cars provide a little thrust from the engine at idle, allowing the car to move at a very low speed, roughly 2-5 kilometers per hour. This is especially useful in traffic jams or parking lots, saving you from frequently pressing the accelerator and brake, making driving much easier. However, be careful on slopes—if the slope is steep, the car might slide backward, so be mentally prepared. I recommend beginners try this with their own cars: start the engine, release the brake, and observe to get familiar with the controls. Safety always comes first in daily driving. If the car doesn't move at all, you should check the transmission or engine.

[LaGarrett]

As someone who enjoys tinkering with cars, I've tested this phenomenon. After starting the engine of an automatic transmission vehicle, the engine remains running, and the transmission automatically outputs a small amount of power, allowing the car to move slowly without pressing the accelerator. This design is meant to facilitate stop-and-go situations and traffic congestion. Different cars exhibit varying degrees of this behavior, with some newer cars having stronger creep and older ones weaker. It's normal for the car to move without pressing the accelerator on flat roads, but if it doesn't move at all on slopes or when cold, it might indicate transmission fluid issues or sensor malfunctions. In any case, this isn't a major problem and can actually save fuel and reduce operational effort. I often remind my friends to get familiar with their car's characteristics and not to rush to press the accelerator when starting.

[MacBradley]

I drive to and from work every day, and the automatic transmission's feature makes it quite convenient for me. After starting the car and releasing the brake, the vehicle moves forward slowly on its own, which is especially handy when the light turns green or at the entrance of a residential area. This is just the small thrust effect at idle speed, not a malfunction. However, it's important to note that you shouldn't rely on it to control the speed—on slopes, the car might roll, so timely braking is necessary. New drivers who are concerned can practice and get a feel for it in an open area. Overall, it's safe and practical, saving your feet from fatigue.