What does the N gear mean in driving?

[VanGiselle]

Driving in N gear means neutral gear, which only exists in automatic transmission models. When the car is in N gear, it loses traction and braking force, and is used when briefly waiting at a red light. Introduction to automatic transmission car gears: 1. P gear: When parking the car, the gear lever must be shifted into P position; 2. R gear: Reverse gear; 3. N gear: Neutral gear, which can be used when starting or towing; 4. D gear: Forward gear, place the gear lever in D position during normal driving; 5. S gear: Sport mode, in this gear the transmission can shift freely, but the shifting timing is delayed to keep the engine at high RPM for a longer time, increasing the vehicle's power; 6. L gear: Low gear, in this gear the transmission stays in 1st gear without shifting up, and can be used on slopes, etc., also providing some braking function when going downhill.

[LondonAnn]

When I first bought a car, I didn't understand what the N gear was for either. Later, a mechanic explained it to me in detail. The N gear on an automatic transmission car actually means neutral, which is the same principle as putting a manual transmission in neutral. At this time, although the engine is still running, the power is not transmitted to the wheels. When I encounter long waits at red lights or traffic jams, I prefer to shift to N gear and pull the handbrake, which is much more comfortable than keeping my foot on the brake. However, I must remind you never to shift to N gear while driving to coast—it doesn't save fuel and is dangerous. When the wheels and engine are disconnected, the braking distance actually becomes longer. Also, if you need to tow the car, remember to shift to N gear; otherwise, the transmission gears could be ruined.

[OSpencer]

When driving an automatic transmission car, it's essential to understand the relationship between these gears. The N (Neutral) gear is typically positioned between R (Reverse) and D (Drive) on the gear shift, representing a neutral state. Its working principle is to disconnect the power link between the engine and the driveshaft, leaving the vehicle in a powerless state. I often use this gear at car washes or on inspection lines, where the wheels can rotate freely without damaging the transmission. However, it's important to note that using N gear for temporary stops like waiting at traffic lights is fine, but for prolonged parking on slopes, it's safer to engage the parking brake or shift to P (Park) gear. Additionally, some drivers prefer to coast downhill in N gear, which is a dangerous practice as it eliminates engine braking.

[VanMadelyn]

The N (Neutral) position is a very special setting in an automatic transmission. Many of the cars I've repaired had issues due to incorrect gear usage. In this position, both the clutch and brake in the transmission are completely disengaged, effectively cutting off all power transmission. When on a car wash conveyor belt, the vehicle is pulled along, so it's essential to shift into N. Some beginners, trying to save effort at traffic lights, keep their foot on the brake without shifting gears, which can lead to increased transmission oil temperature over time. I recommend shifting into N for stops longer than 30 seconds, as it's better for transmission maintenance. However, always remember to engage the handbrake when in N at a traffic light to avoid rolling. Another crucial point: when towing, whether it's a front-wheel or rear-wheel drive, always shift into N.