Which gear should an automatic transmission car be in when waiting at a red light?

[VanSavannah]

When waiting at a red light with an automatic transmission, you should keep the car in D gear. If the red light is expected to last for a longer duration, you can shift to N gear. An automatic transmission typically refers to a car's automatic gear-shifting mechanism, where the control system of the automatic transmission selects the appropriate gear based on the engine's speed and load, replacing the driver's subjective judgment and manual gear-shifting operations. The automatic transmission uses a planetary gear mechanism to change gears automatically according to the degree of the accelerator pedal and changes in vehicle speed. The driver only needs to control the speed by operating the accelerator pedal. Generally, an automatic transmission has six gears: P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), D (Drive), S (Sport), and L (Low).

[VanLucy]

I've been driving for many years and have the habit of shifting to neutral at red lights, especially when waiting for a long time. This allows the engine to rest, prevents the transmission from overheating, and saves a bit of fuel. On flat ground, you can also just step on the brake, but shifting to neutral plus using the handbrake is safer to prevent rolling. I've seen many fellow drivers waiting in D gear for extended periods, with the engine constantly humming, which can accelerate component wear. For short red lights, I don't bother changing gears—just stepping on the brake is more convenient. Remember, safety first: always use the handbrake on slopes and don't be careless. Developing good habits is beneficial for your vehicle's lifespan.

[Silas]

I think shifting to neutral at red lights is a small act that can help the planet. With reduced engine load, fuel consumption decreases, and exhaust emissions are lower, making it environmentally worthwhile. Keeping the car in D gear while waiting at lights with the accelerator pressed consumes significantly more fuel, wasting energy. I often do this and feel smoother starts, plus it extends component lifespan. Cars with good start-stop systems should utilize this even more. Persisting with these small actions adds up to environmental benefits.

[VonNolan]

Just learned to drive an automatic, and I always hesitate about which gear to use at red lights. My friend said keeping it in D and stepping on the brake is the simplest, quick to start and hassle-free. I've tried shifting to neutral, but then I have to pull the handbrake, and sometimes forgetting it leads to a scary roll. On flat ground, staying in D is fine, not much fuel consumption and no hassle. Safety is key for beginners, don't mess with shifting to avoid mistakes. Now I'm used to it, short red lights I don't change gears, only shift to neutral for longer stops.

[CollinDella]

From a cost-saving perspective, shifting to neutral at red lights is much more economical. The transmission under load in D gear wears out faster, leading to higher maintenance costs. By adopting this practice, I save on fuel expenses and extend the lifespan of components by years. Keeping the accelerator pressed while waiting at lights significantly increases fuel consumption, making it a financial loss. Engaging neutral with the handbrake is a low-cost protective measure—minimal investment with substantial returns. The long-term savings can cover other maintenance expenses.

[MacAlejandro]

I usually drive to work and put the car in neutral at traffic lights. My family says it's better this way. Starting is faster, and my foot feels relaxed without getting tired. On slopes, I use the handbrake to prevent the car from sliding—safety is the top priority. In city traffic jams, keeping it in D gear and stepping on the brake is convenient and hassle-free, allowing me to go without shifting gears. Finding a balance is key: for short stops, I don’t shift gears, but for longer stops, shifting to neutral is better for the car.