Can Automatic Transmission Cars Coast in Neutral?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission cars should not be shifted into neutral, as coasting in neutral can damage the automatic transmission. There are three common misconceptions about using automatic transmissions: Keeping the car in D gear during prolonged stops: Forcing the car to stop its slight forward movement can cause the transmission fluid temperature to rise. Automatic transmission cars usually have a slight forward creep. If the brake pedal is held down for a long time, it forcibly stops this movement, leading to increased transmission fluid temperature and faster fluid degradation. This is especially harmful when the air conditioning system is running and the engine is idling at a higher speed. Shifting into N gear while driving at high speeds or going downhill: This can potentially burn out the transmission. When the transmission output shaft is rotating at high speed while the engine is idling, the transmission oil pump cannot supply sufficient oil, resulting in poor lubrication conditions.
After driving automatic transmission cars for over 20 years, I must say coasting in neutral is really not recommended. When you shift to neutral while driving, like going downhill or coasting long distances by releasing the accelerator, it might feel effortless, but the problems are serious: losing engine braking means relying solely on brakes to slow down, which can overheat brake pads over time and lead to dangerous brake failure. Once I tried it on a mountain road and nearly lost control during a turn – never did it again. The transmission oil pump doesn't provide sufficient lubrication in neutral, easily damaging components that cost a fortune to repair. All manufacturer manuals state D gear is for driving, while N gear should only be used for towing or parking. Safety first – don't risk it just to save fuel.