Push starting a car with an automatic transmission is a risky maneuver that should only be attempted as a last resort. It’s important to understand the potential dangers involved and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety and the well-being of your vehicle.
Understanding the Risks
- Damage to the Transmission⁚ Pushing a car with an automatic transmission can strain the transmission, potentially leading to damage. The transmission fluid needs to be circulated by the engine, and pushing the car without the engine running can cause overheating and wear.
- Battery Damage⁚ Pushing a car with a dead battery puts additional strain on the battery, which could further damage it.
- Safety Hazards⁚ Pushing a car requires multiple people, and coordination is crucial. Improper communication or execution can result in accidents, injuries, or damage to the vehicle.
Safety Precautions
If you absolutely must push start your car with an automatic transmission, take the following precautions⁚
- Engage the Parking Brake⁚ Ensure the parking brake is firmly engaged to prevent the car from rolling backward.
- Shift to Neutral⁚ Move the gear selector to the “Neutral” position. This will allow the transmission to rotate freely without engaging the engine.
- Find a Safe Spot⁚ Choose a flat and level surface with enough space for the car to roll freely. Avoid inclines or areas with obstacles.
- Get Help⁚ Find two or more people to assist you with pushing the car. Ensure everyone understands their role and communicates effectively.
- Push Gently⁚ Start pushing the car slowly and gradually increase speed. Avoid sudden jolts or jerks that could damage the transmission.
- Release the Parking Brake⁚ Once the car is moving, slowly release the parking brake. Ensure the car maintains a steady speed.
- Start the Engine⁚ As soon as the car reaches a reasonable speed, try starting the engine. If it doesn’t start immediately, continue pushing and try again.
- Shift into Drive⁚ Once the engine starts, shift the gear selector into “Drive” and accelerate slowly.
Alternatives to Push Starting
If possible, consider these alternatives to push starting⁚
- Jump Start⁚ Using jumper cables to connect a good battery to the dead battery is the safest and most reliable method for starting a car.
- Towing⁚ If the battery is completely dead, towing the car to a mechanic or a place where you can jump start it is a safer option.
Remember, push starting a car with an automatic transmission is a risky endeavor. It should only be considered as a last resort, and all necessary safety precautions should be taken. If you’re unsure about the process or have any doubts, it’s always best to seek professional assistance.