Does coasting in neutral damage an automatic transmission car?
2 Answers
Coasting in neutral can damage an automatic transmission car. The reasons why automatic transmission cars should not coast in neutral are: 1. When coasting in neutral, the engine runs at idle speed, which can harm the transmission; 2. The braking time and distance of the vehicle increase, making it unsafe. The steps to start an automatic transmission car are: 1. Turn the ignition key to the power position; 2. Press the foot brake and shift the gear from P to N; 3. Release the foot brake and start the engine; 4. Warm up the car while stationary; 5. Press the foot brake, shift the gear from N to D, and release the handbrake; 6. Gradually release the foot brake and smoothly press the accelerator to start moving. The gears in an automatic transmission are: 1. D gear is the drive gear; 2. R gear is the reverse gear; 3. P gear is the parking gear; 4. L gear is the low gear; 5. N gear is the neutral gear; 6. W gear is the snow/rain gear; 7. S gear is the sport mode driving gear.
I think coasting in neutral with an automatic transmission is unsafe and bad for the car. With over 20 years of driving experience, I know that in neutral, the transmission lacks sufficient lubrication, the oil pump operates inefficiently, which may lead to internal gear wear; older models face even greater issues, and accumulated wear can result in expensive repairs. Moreover, coasting without engine braking means relying solely on the brakes to slow down, causing brake discs to overheat and age prematurely, increasing accident risks. The fuel-saving argument is unreliable—the engine still consumes fuel at idle in neutral, and coasting in D gear might be more economical. Safe driving habits are more important; especially avoid neutral on urban roads or slopes. Developing good driving practices to extend your car's lifespan is the real way to save hassle.
