How to Shift to Neutral in an Automatic Transmission?
2 Answers
The neutral gear in an automatic transmission is the "N" gear. The neutral gear is used for temporary stops or waiting at a red light, as well as when the car needs to be towed due to an accident. When the gear lever is in the N position, the gears inside the transmission are in a freewheeling state, the clutch is not engaged, and the load on the transmission is minimized. The N gear is generally used for short stops. Additionally, when towing a car, the transmission should also be shifted to the N gear. Below are detailed introductions to the specific gears in an automatic transmission: 1. P gear is the parking gear: When the gear lever is in the P position, the transmission is in a neutral state, but the output shaft is mechanically locked. At this time, the car will remain stationary even without applying the brakes. It is generally used for long-term parking. When shifting into the P gear, the car must be completely stationary. Do not shift into the P gear before the car has come to a complete stop, and always engage the parking brake. When parking on a slope, first engage the parking brake before shifting into the P gear. 2. R gear is the reverse gear: When the gear lever is in the R position, the rotation direction of the transmission's output shaft is opposite to that of the engine, allowing the car to move backward. When shifting into the R gear, the car must be completely stationary. Do not shift into the R gear before the car has come to a complete stop. 3. N gear is the neutral gear: When the gear lever is in the N position, the gears inside the transmission are in a freewheeling state, the clutch is not engaged, and the load on the transmission is minimized. The N gear is generally used for short stops. Additionally, when towing a car, the transmission should also be shifted to the N gear. 4. D gear is the drive gear: When the gear lever is in the D position, the gears inside the transmission automatically shift between the lowest and highest gears based on factors such as vehicle speed and throttle opening, following the preset shifting pattern. In most cases, the D gear can be used for driving.
Shifting into neutral on an automatic transmission car is actually quite simple. With over 20 years of driving experience, I’ve summarized the steps as follows: First, make sure the car is completely stopped and keep your foot firmly on the brake pedal. Don’t rush to move the gear lever, or the car might roll or the transmission could get damaged. Then, hold the gear lever and gently push it to the ‘N’ position, which is usually marked with a large ‘N’ letter, located between the ‘P’ (Park) and ‘R’ (Reverse) positions. After completing the operation, you’ll feel the car become free, the engine RPM will drop, and there will be no power output. I often use neutral during automatic car washes or when towing, but avoid shifting into neutral unnecessarily during normal driving, especially while moving—suddenly shifting to neutral can cause the car to lose speed, compromising safety. Additionally, when towing over long distances, always shift into neutral to prevent damage to the drivetrain. Remember to regularly maintain and check the transmission fluid quality to extend the lifespan of the components.
