Why Do Experienced Drivers Prefer Coasting in Neutral?
2 Answers
Coasting in neutral can simplify complex operations. Here are the detailed explanations: 1. Simplifies complex operations: When encountering a traffic light that turns yellow while driving, and it's impossible to pass, shifting from fifth gear to first gear and then to neutral after the car stops, or holding the clutch and shifting to neutral after the car comes to a complete stop, both are cumbersome. 2. Saves fuel: When going uphill, the speed generated in the direction of travel may exceed the deceleration produced by the engine, causing the car to slow down. In such cases, pressing the accelerator to speed up is necessary. If in neutral, the car can coast faster even on slight slopes, saving gasoline. 3. Faster braking response: In situations where there is a conflict with other vehicles on the road and speed control is needed to stop, shifting to neutral allows for immediate turning without worrying about causing an accident.
As a veteran manual transmission driver with over 20 years of experience, coasting in neutral is indeed a common practice. Back in the carburetor era, disengaging the clutch while going downhill could save some fuel, but with modern fuel-injected cars, coasting in gear is actually more economical. However, our generation has grown accustomed to that smooth feeling, especially when approaching red lights - shifting to neutral and coasting to a stop provides exceptionally smooth braking. I remember this was exactly how driving instructors taught us during license tests in the 1990s, and over time it became muscle memory. Of course, with more automatic transmission vehicles nowadays, younger drivers might not even understand this technique.
