What is the purpose of the N gear in an automatic transmission?

[StKaleb]

Automatic transmission N gear refers to the neutral gear, which is used during startup, towing, or temporary parking. Below is a detailed introduction to the specific functions of each gear in an automatic transmission: 1. P gear is the parking gear: When the gear lever is in the P position, the transmission is in neutral internally, but the output shaft is mechanically locked. At this time, the car will remain stationary even without pressing the brake, and it is generally used for long-term parking. When engaging the P gear, the car must be completely stationary. Do not engage the P gear before the car has come to a complete stop, and always apply the handbrake. When parking on a slope, engage the handbrake first before shifting to P gear. 2. R gear is the reverse gear: When the gear lever is in the R position, the rotation direction of the transmission output shaft is opposite to that of the engine, allowing the car to move backward. When engaging the R gear, the car must be completely stationary. Do not engage the R gear before the car has come to a complete stop. 3. N gear is the neutral gear: When the gear lever is in the N position, the gears inside the transmission are in a freewheeling state, and the clutch is not engaged, resulting in minimal load on the transmission. The N gear is generally used for short-term parking, such as waiting at a red light, and it is also necessary to shift the transmission into N gear when towing the car. 4. D gear is the drive gear: When the gear lever is in the D position, the gears inside the transmission automatically shift between the lowest and highest gears based on factors such as vehicle speed and throttle opening, according to the preset shifting pattern. In most cases, the D gear can be used for driving.