Evaluate the following statement: A four-wheeled vehicle with automatic transmission requires extra caution when starting the engine or using the air conditioning because it may lunge forward.

Evaluate the following statement: A four-wheeled vehicle with automatic transmission requires extra caution when starting the engine or using the air conditioning because it may lunge forward.

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Cannot be determined
• D. Depends on circumstances

Answer: (B)

When an automatic car starts up or when heavy electrical loads like the air conditioner kick in, the engine experiences a brief increase in torque as it handles the extra demand. That quick surge can cause the car to move forward if the brakes aren’t firmly holding and the transmission isn’t securely in Park with the parking brake engaged. Because of that potential for a momentary movement, extra caution is wise when starting the engine or turning on the AC. The safe practice is to keep your foot on the brake, make sure the car is in Park, or use the parking brake, before starting or powering accessories. While typically the car should stay put if these precautions are followed, the possibility of a brief lunge is a real safety consideration.

When an automatic car starts up or when heavy electrical loads like the air conditioner kick in, the engine experiences a brief increase in torque as it handles the extra demand. That quick surge can cause the car to move forward if the brakes aren’t firmly holding and the transmission isn’t securely in Park with the parking brake engaged. Because of that potential for a momentary movement, extra caution is wise when starting the engine or turning on the AC. The safe practice is to keep your foot on the brake, make sure the car is in Park, or use the parking brake, before starting or powering accessories. While typically the car should stay put if these precautions are followed, the possibility of a brief lunge is a real safety consideration.