Can automatic transmission cars coast in neutral? Does it save fuel?
1 Answers
Automatic transmission cars should not coast in neutral for extended periods, as this operation not only fails to save fuel but also damages the transmission. Automatic transmission gear shifting: The transmission of an automatic car is completely different from that of a manual car. The gears of an automatic car are shifted by the onboard computer based on throttle response or preset vehicle speed. If you attempt to save fuel by shifting from D (Drive) to N (Neutral) while driving, the mismatch between the vehicle's speed and the transmission's speed can cause insufficient oil pressure in the hydraulic supply lines inside the transmission. This increases friction within the transmission, reduces lubrication effectiveness, and ultimately damages the friction plates inside the transmission. Fuel-saving practices for automatic cars: In fact, the most fuel-efficient operation for an automatic transmission car is to coast with the D (Drive) gear engaged. Allowing the engine to keep the transmission gears rotating synchronously while coasting is the correct approach.