What gear should an automatic transmission car be in when idling?
2 Answers
When an automatic transmission car is idling for a long time, it should be in P (Park) gear. Reasons for stalling: Automatic transmission models: Automatic transmission models do not stall easily, whereas manual transmission models may stall frequently due to poor driving skills. However, it is not impossible for an automatic transmission car to stall, mainly due to the use of low-quality fuel causing engine carbon buildup and stalling. Precautions: For automatic transmission cars stalling, the main reason is the use of low-quality fuel. One solution is to fill up with high-grade fuel at reputable, large gas stations, such as using 97-octane gasoline. Although it is more expensive, it can ensure a longer lifespan for your car and better performance while driving.
As a veteran driver with nearly 30 years of experience who commutes through daily traffic jams, I always shift to Neutral (N) when idling at red lights in an automatic transmission car. This allows the transmission to completely relax, reducing wear and tear while avoiding hydraulic system tension caused by holding the brake in Drive (D) gear. Prolonged braking in D gear can lead to overheating and even shorten component lifespan - my car has remained healthy past 200,000 kilometers thanks to this habit. For temporary stops like waiting at traffic lights, shifting to N is both safe and fuel-efficient; for extended stops, Park (P) gear prevents rolling. During routine maintenance, mechanics consistently praise my transmission's excellent condition. Developing this habit is simple - just push back to D when the light turns green and drive off with greater peace of mind.