Should the Automatic Parking Gear Be Placed in D or N?
1 Answers
When waiting at a red light for an extended period, it is advisable to shift to N gear for automatic parking; for short waits, D gear can be used. Below are the advantages of using N gear: 1. Fuel efficiency: Shifting from N to D gear involves a process where the engine's RPM first decreases and then recovers. This occurs because, after shifting to D gear, the engine attempts to move the car forward. However, since the brake pedal is pressed, preventing movement, all the engine's input energy is consumed by the torque converter. This causes the engine's RPM to drop below idle speed, prompting the ECU to inject more fuel, thereby increasing fuel consumption. 2. Protects the torque converter: When parked in D gear, all the engine's output energy is consumed by the torque converter, raising its temperature and degrading the fluid quality, which shortens its lifespan. Therefore, it is recommended to shift to N gear. 3. Smoother operation when parked in N gear: If the brake is released directly when restarting the car, the vehicle may jerk noticeably, causing discomfort to passengers. Shifting to N gear before stopping and then switching to D gear when starting ensures a smoother engine start. 4. Safer parking in N gear: Parking in D gear requires continuously pressing the brake pedal for an extended period. During this time, a distracted driver may forget the car is still in drive gear. Accidentally releasing the brake could lead to the car rolling or lurching forward, posing a safety risk.
