When Starting a Car with Automatic Transmission

Step 1: Ensure Your Safety

Before you start the car, make sure you are in a safe location. Park the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake. This will prevent the car from rolling away if it is accidentally put into gear.

Step 2: Adjust the Seat and Mirrors

Adjust the seat so that you are comfortable and can easily reach the pedals and steering wheel. Adjust the mirrors so that you have a clear view of the road behind you.

Step 3: Put the Car in Park

Make sure the car is in park before you start it. This will prevent the car from moving when you put it into gear.

Step 4: Start the Engine

Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the “on” position. Wait for the dashboard lights to come on and then turn the key to the “start” position. The engine will start.

Step 5: Put the Car in Drive

Once the engine is running, put the car in drive. To do this, move the gear selector to the “D” position.

Step 6: Release the Parking Brake

Once the car is in drive, release the parking brake. The car will start to move forward.

Step 7: Accelerate and Steer

Gently press on the gas pedal to accelerate the car. Use the steering wheel to steer the car in the desired direction.

Additional Tips

• If the car does not start, check to make sure that the parking brake is engaged and that the car is in park.
• If the car starts to roll away when you put it into gear, apply the brakes immediately.
• Be careful when driving in slippery conditions. Automatic transmissions can be more difficult to control in slippery conditions.