Can You Shift to Neutral While Driving an Automatic Transmission Car?
4 Answers
It is not advisable to shift to neutral while driving an automatic transmission car. The hazards of shifting to neutral while driving an automatic transmission vehicle are as follows: 1. Shifting to neutral while driving reduces the vehicle's braking force, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions. 2. When the car is coasting in neutral, the connection between the engine and the drive wheels is lost, and the car moves forward solely by inertia. In case of an emergency requiring braking, all braking force must be provided by the brakes alone. 3. Coasting in neutral can cause the engine to stall, leading to failure of the brake booster and a decrease in braking performance.
After driving automatic transmission cars for so many years, I've encountered many people asking this question. Shifting to neutral while driving is absolutely not recommended because it interrupts power transmission, making the car slide like on ice and prone to losing control. I personally experienced an accidental operation once—shifting into N gear while going downhill caused a sudden speed increase, and the brakes almost failed. Later, the mechanic said this could easily damage the transmission oil pump. In automatic transmission design, neutral (N) is only meant for parking or towing. While driving, you should stay in D gear, as the engine can assist with braking, especially at high speeds or in rainy conditions. Don't risk it for momentary convenience; safe driving is what truly matters.
As a new driver who just got my license, my instructor taught me not to shift into neutral while driving an automatic transmission car. It can disrupt the vehicle's balance, and when engine braking fails, braking efficiency significantly decreases. For example, when going downhill or turning, coasting in neutral can lead to uncontrollable speed and potential accidents. I've researched and found that although modern car ECUs are intelligent, operating in neutral offers no benefits and may even increase fuel consumption. Sticking to Drive (D) mode is the most reliable, simple, and safe option. Driving safety concerns everyone, and following this rule can make the journey more reassuring.
I remember making a mistake when I was young - shifting to neutral while driving to save fuel. The result? Engine noise skyrocketed, and soon after, transmission problems emerged. The mechanic explained that in neutral, power is disconnected, leading to insufficient gear lubrication and accelerated wear. Automatic transmissions differ from manuals - coasting isn't advisable. Decades of experience taught me: never touch N gear in any situation, staying in D is the right way.
