Should You Use P or N Gear in Traffic Jams?
2 Answers
You can shift to either P (Park) or N (Neutral) gear without turning off the engine, as long as you ensure the handbrake is firmly engaged. If you are stopping at a red light or in a traffic jam without turning off the engine, it is recommended to shift into N gear. Speed ranges for car gears: First gear corresponds to a speed range of 0-5 km/h. Second gear corresponds to 5-20 km/h, third gear to 20-40 km/h, fourth gear to 40-60 km/h, and fifth gear to 60-100 km/h. Gear shifting timing for cars: For most cars, the ideal shifting timing is when the engine reaches 2000 rpm, and it should not exceed 2500 rpm. For high-displacement, high-power engines, shifting can be done around 3000 rpm.
As a driver who prioritizes road safety, I always believe gear selection during traffic jams is crucial. Based on my experience, for short stops like at red lights or brief congestion, shifting to Neutral (N) while applying the brake is optimal—it allows prompt acceleration to avoid rear-end collision risks. For prolonged waits exceeding one minute or when parked on inclines, switching to Park (P) with the handbrake engaged prevents unintended vehicle movement, as safety comes first during distracted traffic scenarios. I’ve also learned from real accident cases where minor impacts while in P-mode damaged transmissions, highlighting the need for adaptive operation based on road conditions. On rainy or slippery roads, maintaining N-gear ensures stability and enables swift emergency lane changes. These practices protect both the vehicle and ensure safety for all road users.