Do you need to press the brake when shifting from N to D in an automatic transmission?
2 Answers
Shifting from N to D in an automatic transmission does not require pressing the brake. However, shifting between R, P, and D gears requires pressing the brake for safety reasons. While driving, you can shift from D to N, and when starting at a green light, you can also shift from N to D without pressing the brake. Theoretically, this does not harm the transmission because the operation performed by the transmission when shifting to neutral in an automatic transmission is the same as in a manual transmission. Whether it's an automatic or manual transmission, coasting in neutral is not recommended. When coasting in neutral, the car's power is interrupted, which can easily lead to loss of control and danger. Additionally, during neutral coasting, the oil pressure in the transmission decreases, reducing the lubrication effect between moving parts in the transmission.
As a veteran driver with 10 years of automatic transmission experience, I'm very familiar with this issue. You must definitely press the brake before shifting to D gear - it's a fundamental safety procedure. Automatic transmission vehicles simply won't allow the gear lever to engage D gear without brake pedal pressure, as manufacturers designed this protective feature to prevent accidental sudden acceleration. When waiting at red lights, just keep D gear engaged while holding the brake - the car will move as soon as you release the pedal. For temporary stops, using N gear with the parking brake is easier on the transmission. Pay special attention to hill starts - you must firmly press the brake to prevent dangerous rolling. Developing this habit can save significant repair costs, as transmission failures often cost tens of thousands to fix.
