Can You Shift from D to N While Driving an Automatic Transmission Car?
1 Answers
It is not advisable to shift into N (Neutral) gear while driving an automatic transmission car. N gear, also known as neutral, can be harmful to the braking system, vehicle control, and even life safety when coasting in this mode. Negative effects of coasting in neutral on braking: Extended coasting in neutral, such as when descending a hill, can lead to increasing vehicle speed due to gravitational assistance, requiring frequent use of brakes. Continuous braking causes the brake system temperature to rise, potentially vaporizing the brake fluid and increasing the risk of accidents. Negative effects of coasting in neutral on the braking system: Coasting in neutral also adversely affects the braking system. Similar to "low-gear driving" downhill, the vehicle's drivetrain uses internal resistance (through friction plates between the engine and transmission) to maintain a controlled speed, acting as an internal brake at high speeds. However, in neutral, the engine's control is lost. Safety hazards of coasting in neutral: When coasting in neutral, the engine and transmission are disconnected, eliminating internal braking effects. If the leading vehicle stops suddenly in close proximity, a following vehicle coasting in neutral must rely solely on its wheel braking system, increasing the likelihood of a rear-end collision and endangering the lives of the driver and passengers.
