A dead battery can leave you stranded, but if you have a willing friend and a slight incline, you can push start your car with an automatic transmission. However, it’s crucial to proceed with caution and follow these steps⁚
Safety First
- Find a Safe Spot⁚ Choose a flat, level area with no obstacles or traffic. Ensure there’s enough space to safely push the car.
- Engage the Parking Brake⁚ Before leaving the car, firmly engage the parking brake.
- Shift to Neutral⁚ With the engine off, shift the transmission to “Neutral” (N).
- Turn the Ignition⁚ Turn the ignition to the “Accessory” position to power the steering wheel and other accessories, but don’t start the engine.
The Push Start Process
- Find a Gentle Incline⁚ If possible, find a slight uphill slope. This will help the car gain momentum more easily.
- Push the Car⁚ With the parking brake engaged, several people (at least three) should push the car forward, gaining speed as they go.
- Release the Parking Brake⁚ As the car reaches a decent speed, have someone inside the car release the parking brake, ensuring the car is moving forward freely.
- Shift to Drive⁚ While the car is rolling, have the person inside shift the transmission into “Drive” (D).
- Accelerate Gently⁚ Once the engine starts, gently accelerate to maintain the car’s momentum.
- Don’t Overrev⁚ Avoid revving the engine too high, as this can damage the transmission.
- Turn Off the Engine⁚ Once you reach a safe location, turn off the engine and let it cool down.
Important Considerations
- Battery Safety⁚ Don’t attempt to jump start the car immediately after a push start. The battery may be damaged, and jumping it could cause further issues.
- Transmission Damage⁚ Pushing a car with an automatic transmission can be stressful on the gearbox. If you have to push start frequently, consider replacing the battery as soon as possible.
- Professional Help⁚ If you’re unsure about the process or if you encounter any difficulties, it’s best to seek professional assistance from a mechanic.
Remember, push starting a car is a temporary solution. The best course of action is to address the underlying battery issue promptly. Get your battery checked and replaced if necessary to avoid future inconveniences.