Can You Shift to Neutral While Driving an Automatic Transmission Car?
2 Answers
It is not advisable to shift to neutral while driving an automatic transmission car. Although you can physically move the gear selector from D (Drive) to N (Neutral) while the vehicle is in motion, doing so can damage the automatic transmission. More details about automatic transmissions are as follows: 1. When the vehicle is moving at high speed, both the engine speed and the output shaft speed of the automatic transmission will be very high. Shifting to N (Neutral) will disconnect the engine from the wheels. 2. The hydraulic lines inside the automatic transmission may experience insufficient oil pressure, preventing proper lubrication of the transmission. This can lead to increased internal operating temperatures and higher friction pressure.
As an experienced driver who frequently operates automatic transmissions, I do not recommend suddenly shifting to neutral while driving, especially on highways or downhill sections. Shifting to N (neutral) gear while the car is in motion means the transmission disengages from the engine power, causing you to lose engine braking assistance. This can result in longer braking distances, and in case of an emergency, your reaction may not be quick enough. Additionally, the oil pump inside an automatic transmission relies on the engine to function. Shifting to neutral may lead to insufficient lubrication, which over time can wear out components or even damage the transmission—repairs for which can be costly. Some people do this to save fuel, but actual tests show that modern cars consume less fuel idling in D (drive) gear than coasting in neutral. The correct approach is to keep the car in D gear while driving and only shift to N gear when stopping at a red light or parking. Cultivating good driving habits ensures safety above all.
