Should You Shift to Neutral at Red Lights in an Automatic Transmission Car?
2 Answers
When waiting at a red light in an automatic transmission car, it is strongly recommended to shift to neutral. This not only reduces wear and tear on the vehicle and lowers fuel consumption but also minimizes repair costs under extreme conditions. When the car is in Drive (D) gear, it tends to creep forward slowly, requiring the driver to press the brake pedal to prevent movement. Prolonged use of this method will inevitably shorten the lifespan of the brake pads. Below is an introduction to the relevant gear positions: 1. P (Parking) - Parking Gear, Start Gear: Used when the vehicle is parked and not in use. In this position, the wheels are mechanically locked to prevent rolling. The vehicle must be completely stopped before shifting to P gear; otherwise, the mechanical parts of the automatic transmission may be damaged. 2. R (Reverse) - Reverse Gear: Used for reversing. Never force the gear into R while the vehicle is still moving, as this can severely damage the transmission. 3. N (Neutral) - Neutral Gear: Used for temporary stops (e.g., at a red light). This position indicates neutral. To prevent the vehicle from rolling on a slope, always apply the brake. 4. D (Drive) - Drive Gear: Used for normal driving on regular roads. 5. S (Sport) - Sport Mode: In this mode, gears can be freely switched, but the shift timing is delayed to maintain high engine RPM for a period, enhancing the car's power. However, this mode increases fuel consumption.
As someone who has been driving for years, I don't think it's necessary to shift to neutral at red lights. Modern automatic transmissions are well-designed when in Drive (D) with the brake pedal pressed—the engine idling won't cause extra fuel consumption or damage components. Frequent shifting to Neutral (N) increases wear on the drivetrain, especially during short red lights where repeated gear engagement can accelerate wear. Safety-wise, staying in Drive with the brake applied is more secure; if the brakes fail, the car is less likely to roll. For fuel efficiency, newer models have smart systems that reduce fuel supply when stopped, making the minimal savings from shifting to neutral negligible. If your car has an auto-hold function, use it—it's both convenient and safe. For short red lights, don't bother shifting; for longer stops (over a minute), consider neutral to rest your foot, but always prioritize the vehicle manual's recommendations. In short, driving should be simple and efficient—don't sacrifice the overall experience for minor details.
