Is It Good to Frequently Switch Between N and D Gears in Traffic Jams?
2 Answers
It is not recommended to frequently switch between D and N gears during traffic jams. Although doing so won't cause any issues to the transmission, constantly shifting gears in stop-and-go traffic is quite troublesome. For short stops or when the traffic ahead is moving slowly, it is advisable to simply press the brake while in D gear. When you need to move forward, just release the brake. More details are as follows: 1. Benefits of pressing the brake in D gear: This approach has the advantage of allowing you to closely follow the vehicle in front. If you switch from N to D gear, it takes some time for the idle speed to pick up. Therefore, even if you release the brake, the car will remain stationary for a while before moving forward. This delay can allow other vehicles to cut in front of you, which is why experienced drivers avoid frequent D and N gear shifts in traffic jams. 2. Switching to N gear during prolonged stops: Additionally, if the traffic is completely stopped or you are waiting for an extended period, you can switch to N gear. This is because even when the car is stationary, the idle speed remains active, keeping related components running. Failing to switch to N gear in time can easily lead to an increase in transmission oil temperature and deterioration of the oil, especially when the air conditioning system is running and the engine idle speed is high, which can be more detrimental.
As a veteran driver with decades of experience, I've seen many people frequently shift between N and D gears in traffic jams. I used to do this too, thinking it could save fuel or give the car a break. But I've learned better over the years: for short stops like red lights lasting a few seconds, just keep your foot on the brake; for prolonged traffic jams exceeding a minute, shift to N to relieve transmission pressure. Modern cars are smartly designed—occasional shifts are fine, but excessive switching increases gear wear and may shorten lifespan. Transmission fluid overheating can also be problematic, especially in older models. The key is to operate situationally—don't overdo it blindly. Safety first and car protection matter most. With more road experience, I've found reasonable gear shifting balances comfort and vehicle maintenance.
