Which Gear Should You Use When Stopping at a Traffic Light?
2 Answers
When stopping at a traffic light, it is generally recommended to shift into N (Neutral) gear. P Gear Introduction: P (Park) gear is the gear used when the vehicle is parked for an extended period. R Gear Introduction: R (Reverse) gear is the gear engaged when the vehicle needs to move backward. N Gear Introduction: N (Neutral) gear is the gear used when the vehicle is parked for a short time without turning off the engine. D Gear Introduction: D (Drive) gear, also known as the forward or driving gear, automatically shifts gears based on throttle position and speed data when the gear lever is in D. M Gear Introduction: M (Manual) gear refers to the manual mode of an automatic transmission or the simulated manual mode of a CVT transmission. When the gear lever is shifted into M, gear changes are performed manually by the driver.
When stopping at a red light, I recommend shifting to neutral (N) and firmly applying the handbrake or keeping your foot on the brake pedal. This is primarily for safety reasons – it prevents your car from rolling forward and hitting the vehicle in front if your foot slips, and protects the transmission from excessive impact damage in case of a rear-end collision. Some people find it more convenient to stay in drive (D) with the brake pressed, which is fine for short stops. However, for red lights lasting over 30 seconds, I shift to N to give the transmission a break, reducing heat buildup and wear. Modern cars with autohold functionality make it easier to remain in D with automatic braking. Remember to avoid shifting to park (P), as a rear-end collision could lead to costly repairs. Developing good habits puts safety first and makes driving more worry-free.
