How to Push Start a Car with Automatic Transmission
If your car has an automatic transmission, you can’t push start it in the same way you would a car with a manual transmission. That’s because automatic transmissions have a torque converter instead of a clutch, and the torque converter doesn’t allow the engine to spin freely when the car is not in gear.
However, there is a way to push start a car with an automatic transmission. It’s called a “rocking” start. Here’s how to do it:
1. Find a hill
The first step is to find a hill. The hill doesn’t have to be steep, but it should be long enough to give you some momentum.
2. Put the car in neutral
Once you’ve found a hill, put the car in neutral. This will allow the car to roll freely.
3. Turn the key to the “on” position
Next, turn the key to the “on” position. This will power up the car’s electrical system, but it won’t start the engine.
4. Push the car down the hill
Now, it’s time to push the car down the hill. Get a few people to help you, or use a rope or chain to attach the car to another vehicle.
5. Once the car has some momentum, release the brake
Once the car has some momentum, release the brake. The car will start to roll down the hill.
6. Shift the car into drive
As the car is rolling down the hill, shift the car into drive. This will cause the torque converter to lock up and the engine to start.
7. Give the car some gas
Once the engine is running, give the car some gas to keep it going.
8. Drive to a safe location
Once the car is running, drive to a safe location where you can stop and check for any damage.
Tips
Here are a few tips for push starting a car with an automatic transmission:
- Make sure the car is in neutral before you start pushing it.
- Don’t push the car too fast. The torque converter can only lock up at a certain speed.
- Be careful when shifting the car into drive. If the torque converter doesn’t lock up properly, the car can lurch forward.
- Once the car is running, drive to a safe location and check for any damage.
Conclusion
Push starting a car with an automatic transmission can be a challenge, but it’s possible if you follow the steps above. Just be sure to take your time and be careful, and you’ll be able to get your car started in no time.