Does Revving in Neutral Gear Harm the Car?
2 Answers
Revving in neutral gear does not harm the car. More details about revving in neutral gear are as follows: 1. The engine speed is around 4,000 to 5,000 RPM. Prolonged revving will consume more fuel and may cause the engine to overheat, leading to boiling. 2. When starting the car, manufacturers specify that the engine can only start in P (Park) or N (Neutral) gear. Therefore, revving in P or N gear will not cause any damage. Below is additional information about car gears: 1. P (Park) gear is for parking and is used when the vehicle is parked for an extended period; 2. R (Reverse) gear is for reversing and is engaged when the vehicle needs to move backward; 3. N (Neutral) gear is for short-term parking without turning off the engine; 4. D (Drive) gear is for forward movement. When the gear lever is in D, the vehicle will automatically shift gears based on throttle opening and speed data.
I've been driving for ten years, and this question often comes up among friends. Simply put, stepping on the gas in Neutral (N) gear won't significantly harm the car, as it just lets the engine idle without connecting to the wheels. Personally, I occasionally do this when checking engine sounds or warming up the car—it's pretty normal. However, be cautious not to rev the engine at high RPMs for extended periods, like pushing it to the redline while watching the tachometer. That increases engine stress, accelerating wear on components like pistons or bearings, and may cause overheating, affecting longevity. Compared to normal driving, fuel consumption is also slightly higher, so there's no need to make a habit of it. My advice is: doing it occasionally is fine, just don't overuse it, and ensure regular maintenance for your car.
