What Gear Should an Automatic Transmission Be in When Waiting at a Red Light?
3 Answers
If the waiting time is longer than 40 seconds, shift to N (Neutral) and engage the handbrake. For waits shorter than 40 seconds, simply keep the gear in D (Drive) while braking. Here are some guidelines for automatic transmission gear selection: 1. If the red light is particularly long, it's advisable to shift to P (Park). For shorter waits, you can shift to N (Neutral) and apply the brake, depending on the situation. 2. Automatic transmission vehicles typically use a hydraulic transmission system instead of the mechanical clutch found in manual transmission vehicles, hence there is no clutch pedal. When the engine speed is low, the torque transmitted by the fluid is limited and insufficient to move the vehicle forward. When the gear selector is placed in D (Drive) and the brake pedal is released, increasing the throttle and engine speed raises the transmitted torque, enabling the vehicle to move forward.
As an experienced driver with years of driving, I believe the gear selection at red lights depends on the situation. For short red lights, under 10 seconds, I usually stay in D gear with my foot on the brake, which allows for quicker starts and is more convenient, avoiding frequent gear changes. However, for longer red lights, over half a minute, I prefer shifting to N gear and resting my foot, as keeping the car in D gear while braking puts pressure on the transmission, potentially wearing out the clutch plates over time, which can be costly to repair. Additionally, shifting to N gear reduces engine load, slightly lowering fuel consumption, which is better for car maintenance. Remember not to shift to P gear, as a rear-end collision could damage the transmission. In summary, be flexible: use D gear for short city traffic lights and N gear for longer suburban lights.
When commuting by car, I often think about what to do at red lights. Personally, I prefer keeping it in D gear while stepping on the brake, as it allows for quick response and prevents rolling, especially during frequent starts in traffic jams. However, if the red light lasts too long, say over 60 seconds, I shift to N gear to relieve pressure, preventing the transmission from staying in drive mode and avoiding overheating issues. For automatic transmission cars, especially dual-clutch versions, shifting to N gear allows the clutch plates to relax, reducing wear and extending their lifespan. I also make sure not to press the brake too hard, gently applying pressure to keep the car stationary. In short, for short red lights, I keep driving; for long ones, I take a break. Developing good habits is car-friendly.
