Is it safe to coast downhill in neutral gear?

[AutumnLee]

Coasting downhill in neutral gear is not recommended. Relying solely on brakes to control speed poses significant safety risks, especially on long downhill slopes where the braking system may overheat and suddenly fail, leading to accidents. The correct approach is to engage an appropriate gear based on the actual speed, utilizing engine braking while occasionally supplementing with the brakes. This method ensures safety and prolongs the lifespan of the braking system. Coasting in neutral refers to the practice where the driver shifts the transmission into neutral while the vehicle is in motion, disengaging the engine from the drive wheels and relying on the vehicle's inertia. During idle operation, the oil pump operates at a low speed, reducing oil supply. Prolonged use of this method can accelerate engine wear.