Can I release the foot brake when the car is in N gear at a red light?
3 Answers
You can release the foot brake when the car is in N gear at a red light. Here are some precautions for driving an automatic transmission car: 1. Start with gentle acceleration: When starting an automatic car, press the accelerator pedal lightly. Otherwise, it will only increase the engine speed, causing loud engine noise and transmission wear, leading to fuel waste. Instead, gradually increase the throttle to allow the engine speed to rise evenly. 2. Start in P or N gear: The automatic transmission is equipped with a neutral start switch. The gear must be in P or N to start the car, avoiding accidental forward movement if started in other gears. 3. Avoid coasting in neutral: Coasting with the gear lever in neutral can cause the gears in the automatic transmission to rotate at high speed, reaching up to 3000 RPM momentarily. Due to insufficient oil supply from the transmission oil pump, the gears may not be adequately lubricated, leading to wear and overheating of the automatic transmission fluid, which can affect its lifespan.
Having driven for over a decade, I've noticed many people shift to neutral at red lights to give the transmission a break, but releasing the foot brake requires caution. Once the vehicle is stationary, if you release the foot brake pedal, even on flat roads, slight inclines or pressure from vehicles behind can cause creeping, potentially leading to bumper contact. The risk is greater on slopes or during rain. My habit is to shift to N but keep the foot brake firmly pressed for stability. If the red light is too long and my leg tires, I engage the handbrake instead to relieve my foot. Safety always comes first—this prevents accidents and protects the braking system. Remember, driving isn't just about saving effort; every step ensures peace of mind on the road for all of us.
When waiting at a long red light, I always prefer to shift to N gear to reduce idle wear, making driving more relaxed. Is it okay to release the foot brake? On an absolutely flat road, briefly releasing it might not be a big deal, but don't make it a habit to avoid negligence leading to the car rolling. The vehicle stops due to friction, releasing the foot brake means giving up active control, and the car might move if you're not careful. I usually switch to the handbrake after confirming safety, so my foot can rest, but I always check the surroundings before stopping at a light to ensure everything is fine. Driving habits are crucial; paying attention to these small details regularly can make the journey more comfortable and safer.
