What is the purpose of the neutral gear in an automatic transmission car?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission car neutral gear functions: 1. Towing - When the vehicle needs maintenance or requires temporary towing for other reasons, the gear must be shifted to neutral; 2. Temporary parking - When the vehicle needs to stop temporarily for a short period, neutral gear can be used, but if the waiting time is too long, it is recommended to turn off the engine; 3. Waiting at red lights - When encountering a red light and needing to wait for some time, shifting to neutral is a good option as it reduces fuel consumption without accelerating transmission wear.
The neutral gear (N) in automatic cars is quite commonly used. Having driven for nearly thirty years, I feel it's mainly for saving hassle when parking. For example, waiting at a red light for a minute, shifting to neutral keeps the car stationary, and you don’t tire your foot from holding the brake—though modern cars are well-designed, staying in Drive (D) with the brake pressed is fine too. Another major use is when towing or pushing the car; you must shift to neutral to avoid damaging the drivetrain, or the transmission could be ruined. It’s also essential for car washes where machines spin the wheels freely. Some people mistakenly believe coasting in neutral saves fuel—an old myth that not only doesn’t save gas but can also lead to loss of control and braking failure. Certain models require starting in neutral or Park (P). In short, using it properly ensures safety and convenience, but it’s not recommended while driving to avoid accidents.
