Should an automatic transmission car be shifted to neutral when waiting at a red light?

1 Answers
LeConnor
07/30/25 3:49am
For brief stops, it's not necessary to shift into neutral. However, for longer waits, such as those exceeding 30 seconds, it is recommended to shift into neutral and engage the handbrake. Correct methods for waiting at a red light with an automatic transmission: 1. When the light has just turned red or the remaining time is long: Shifting into neutral and engaging the handbrake is suitable for situations where the light has just turned red or there is a long remaining time. Shifting into neutral cuts off engine power, and engaging the handbrake prevents the vehicle from moving, allowing you to free your right foot from continuously pressing the brake. 2. When there are about ten seconds left on the red light: Keeping the transmission in D (Drive) and pressing the brake is suitable when there are about ten seconds left on the red light or in stop-and-go traffic. This allows for a timely start without the need for frequent gear shifting.
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