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What does p mean on a Toyota?

The "P" on a Toyota typically stands for "Park" and indicates that the vehicle is in the park gear or position. This is a common feature found on the gear shift or transmission display of Toyota vehicles, as well as many other automobiles, to help the driver easily identify the current gear or driving mode.


Understanding the "P" Indicator on Toyota Vehicles


The "P" symbol on a Toyota's gear shift or transmission display is part of the standard gear position indicator. This indicator provides a visual cue to the driver about the current state of the transmission, allowing them to easily see which gear the vehicle is in at a glance.



  • P stands for "Park" and indicates that the transmission is in the park position, meaning the wheels are locked and the vehicle cannot move.

  • R stands for "Reverse" and indicates the transmission is in reverse gear.

  • N stands for "Neutral" and indicates the transmission is in neutral, with no power being transmitted to the wheels.

  • D stands for "Drive" and indicates the transmission is in the primary forward gear, ready for normal driving.

  • Some Toyota models may also have additional gear position indicators, such as "L" for low gear or "S" for sport mode.


Knowing the meaning of the "P" indicator and other gear position symbols is important for safely operating a Toyota vehicle and ensuring the transmission is in the correct gear for the desired driving mode.


Importance of the Gear Position Indicator


The gear position indicator, including the "P" symbol, serves several important functions for Toyota drivers:



  • Safety: The indicator helps prevent the driver from accidentally shifting into the wrong gear, which could lead to loss of control or damage to the vehicle.

  • Convenience: The indicator allows the driver to quickly and easily see the current gear, reducing the need to look down at the gear shift or transmission display.

  • Efficiency: Knowing the current gear position helps the driver select the appropriate gear for the driving conditions, which can improve fuel efficiency and performance.


Overall, the "P" indicator and other gear position symbols are essential features that contribute to the safe and efficient operation of Toyota vehicles.

What is the p button for?


Electronic Parking Brake
Swap in a "P" for the "A" and you're now looking at the electronic parking-brake switch. This button, which might require a push or a pull to activate, controls the parking brake, which holds the car in place on steep inclines or when the transmission is in neutral.



What is Toyota Safety Sense P?


Toyota Safety Sense™ P (TSS-P) is an active safety package that comes standard on every new Toyota Tacoma. This advanced precautionary safety system combines the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD), Lane Departure Alert (LDA... Sep 24, 2022.



What does p mean in Toyota?


P is Park - as in not Drive, Neutral or Reverse. So, it's the 'gear' you leave the car in when you are not using it. (P) is the handbrake (or electronic parking brake).



What does p mean on a car dashboard?


parking brake
The brake warning light features a red circle with an exclamation point or "P" in the middle, or simply the text "BRAKE." When illuminated, this light can indicate such things as routine notifications that your parking brake is engaged to warnings that there's a fault in your braking system, such as a failing master ...



What is the P warning light?


If you see a red circle with an “E” or a “P” inside, it simply means your emergency (parking) brake is engaged. If a light comes on that says BRAKE or a yellow circle with ABS inside, your braking system has a major malfunction. The yellow circle indicates the Anti-Lock Braking System has a malfunction.



Why does my car say P?


P – Park: This position engages the parking pawl in the transmission. It engages a device that prevents the vehicle from rolling, even on a slope. It's critical to note that you should only use the Park position when the car is stopped, and you're about to get out.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.