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Do you need to press the brake when shifting from N to D in an automatic transmission?

3 Answers
LaMax
07/23/25 8:18pm
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.
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EliasMarie
08/10/25 3:51pm
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.
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SanSabrina
09/23/25 3:17am
Last time when teaching my sister to drive, I specifically mentioned this. Automatic transmissions have an interlock mechanism - you simply can't shift into D without pressing the brake, just like a safety lock. Beginners often fear hill starts most. Just keep the brake pressed while shifting to D, then gradually release the parking brake until power engages before releasing the foot brake - this completely prevents rollback. Remember in summer with AC on, shifting to N while braking is much quieter than D and better for the transmission. Although the manual says brief stops in D with brakes are fine, I prefer shifting to N for stops over 30 seconds - the transmission fluid temperature drops significantly.
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