Are Engine Idling and Freewheeling the Same?
2 Answers
They are the same. The idle state refers to a working condition when the engine is freewheeling. When the engine is running, if the throttle pedal is completely released, the engine will be in an idle state. Definition of Idling: Idling refers to the operation of the engine under no load, where it only needs to overcome the frictional resistance of its internal components and does not output power externally. The minimum speed required to maintain stable engine operation is called idling, which is one of the five basic operating conditions of an engine. For an engine with good performance, the idle speed is generally between 550-800 RPM. Idle Speed: The idle speed can be adjusted by modifying the throttle opening size, idle fuel supply, etc. Generally, the optimal idle speed is the lowest speed at which the engine does not shake within the idle range and has good acceleration performance.
Having driven for decades, I'm not surprised at all by this question. Idling and running idle are essentially the same thing—both refer to the state where the car is stationary but the engine is running without propelling the wheels forward. Some say 'running idle' might emphasize the transmission position, but in practical driving, there's no real difference. For example, when stuck in traffic with a red light, the engine is either idling or running idle, keeping the AC or audio system working. I remember when I was younger, I often let the car idle for too long, resulting in soaring fuel consumption and severe carbon buildup. Now I've learned better—if I'm parked for more than a minute, I turn off the engine, saving fuel and being eco-friendly. If the idle is unstable, extra caution is needed—it could be an ignition system issue, and early inspection can prevent major repairs. In short, these two terms are interchangeable in daily use; the key is to develop good habits to protect your beloved car.
