Can a Car Move in Neutral Gear?
3 Answers
No, it cannot move. When in neutral gear, the engine and wheels are not connected, and the power transmission through the gearbox is interrupted, so the vehicle will not move. If there is any movement, it is due to uneven ground causing passive motion. Here is more information about neutral gear: 1. Function: Its purpose is to disconnect the power transmission between the input shaft and output shaft inside the gearbox. 2. Precautions: For automatic transmission vehicles, coasting in neutral gear is not recommended except under special circumstances, as it is unsafe and can lead to insufficient lubrication of gears and other components due to inadequate oil supply from the transmission oil pump, potentially damaging the gearbox. Additionally, neutral gear lacks a braking mechanism, so the handbrake or brake pedal must be used to park the vehicle; otherwise, it may roll on uneven surfaces.
After driving for twenty years, I've found that a car in neutral can indeed move, but it depends on the situation. On a flat road, a car in neutral won't move by itself. However, on a downhill or slope, even without pressing the accelerator, the car will roll down. I once experienced an incident where I forgot to engage the handbrake while getting out to buy a bottle of water, and the car slid three meters, hitting a vendor's stall. Now, I always remember to engage the handbrake when parking, and I never coast in neutral while driving, as the engine doesn't assist with braking, increasing the stopping distance, which could lead to a serious rear-end collision in an emergency.
As a working mom, I'm extra careful when picking up and dropping off my kids. When parked in neutral on flat ground, the car indeed doesn't move, but that gentle slope at the kindergarten entrance once nearly caused my car to roll. Now I've developed a habit: stepping on the brake at traffic lights, and always engaging the handbrake on slopes. I also never coast in neutral while driving – I've heard it makes braking harder, and a colleague rear-ended someone that way. Honestly, the little fuel you save isn't worth the repair costs.
