Why do you have to step on the brake before starting an automatic car?

Unlike manual transmission cars, the basic operation when starting the engine is to press the clutch. At this time, even if the car is in gear (the gear lever is in 1st, 2nd, 3rd...), the car will not move because the clutch has disengaged, so it is basically quite safe. With automatic transmission cars, when wanting to start the engine, the driver must step on the brake, then press the start button to "start" the car.

Some people who are new to driving automatic cars or have just switched from manual to automatic cars often wonder why they must step on the brake pedal before starting an automatic car. Manufacturers also give warnings (visual and audible on the dashboard) that the driver must step on the brake pedal if they want to start the car.

According to automotive engineering experts, there are many different reasons related to safety, anti-theft capabilities and many other factors… that cause automatic cars to be designed so that users have to step on the brake if they want to start the car.

First, regarding safety, according to car manufacturers, stepping on the brake before starting an automatic car will cause the car to not move immediately after starting. The structure of the transmission system on the car relies on the clutch connecting the engine and the transmission. If the system is not built like that, the car will be at risk of moving on its own as soon as it starts, even if it is moving slowly.

Therefore, pressing the brake is to ensure that the car does not move when starting. If the car starts suddenly when starting the engine, it will be very dangerous, especially when the driver is not ready, it will cause the car to jerk, lose control, and can cause serious consequences.

In particular, in case someone in the car accidentally presses the start button, especially a child… If the brake is not applied, the car will not start, thereby helping to ensure the safety of the people in the car.

In addition, the fact that automatic cars must brake before starting will help prevent car theft. In foreign countries, car theft is quite common. Thieves can stand outside to break the key signal and start the engine. Therefore, to limit theft, car manufacturers design automatic cars to brake before starting, at which time the car's central control box will recognize the key signal to start.