I've looked at previous answers to questions like this, + general consensus is that it's not necessary, but my husband maintains that as it's an older car the gearbox is not as sophisticated as later models + I should always put it in neutral at traffic lights. I don't agree. Help please!
2007-02-27 21:07:51 · 10 answers · asked by amethyst 3 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Other - Cars & Transportation
I put mine into neutral (and apply handbrake) at traffic lights, mainly because I'm lazy and can't be bothered pressing my foot on the brake, especially if I know it's going to be a long time before moving. It is also much safer (if you’re hit from behind, your foot could come off the brake and the car would start to drive off!)
You will notice that when you shift into neural when stopped, the revs will drop slightly, thus you'll be saving (a very small amount of) fuel, helping the environment and reducing engine wear & tear.
Also, and this is quite an important one, if you keep your foot on the brake, the person behind you will potentially be blinded by your brake lights (especially at night), so it’s just common courtesy.
I think you’d probably fail your test for not applying the handbrake at lights, but then we all do things that would result in a failed test, don’t we (speeding, crossing arms, coasting, etc)
There is a link below from a website for learner drivers that states the handbrake should be applied for safety, and the car into neutral for long stops.
2007-02-28 00:32:10 · answer #1 · answered by Neil 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
there are mixed views on this subject. Some people dont think its a good idea to hold the car on the brake whilst you are in Drive, particularly if the brakes are hot. Others dont like the clunk when you put the car back into drive before you set off. If it was a manual I would say put it in neutral with the handbrake on, for an auto, on balance, I would leave it in Drive. If you are going to be stood for a while (more than 3 minutes) put it in neutral, not Park
2007-02-28 05:32:40 · answer #2 · answered by Nimbus 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
the only thing I can see that makes me put a automatic in neutral while at a light would be if the car was having an over heating problem. Other then that I keep an automatic in gear, but with my foot off the gas, or your working the engine and tranny and will cause early retirement of the internal parts. Good luck with this and don't let it turn to a knife fight ;)
2007-02-28 05:33:48 · answer #3 · answered by Monkey King 1 · 2⤊ 0⤋
When I was taught to drive 20 odd years ago, I was taught to put car into neutral, and engage handbrake. To this day I do that at traffic lights. Old habits - but I think good habits. If you're 'shunted' from the back while stationary, if the handbrakes on, it means you don't slam (or at least not so hard) into the vehicle in front.
2007-02-28 05:15:21 · answer #4 · answered by jet-set 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
yep always put into neutral when stationary if in drive there is load going through the box an will cause wear over the years
2007-02-28 11:13:32 · answer #5 · answered by alan4starr 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Been driving for over 40 yrs. Leave it in drive and if it gives you problems, then get it fixed. I have no idea where your husband came up with this.
2007-02-28 05:20:24 · answer #6 · answered by Fordman 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
the correct way is to put it in neutral also put handbrake on but to be honest i dont think anyone does anymore i certainly don't
2007-02-28 05:41:40 · answer #7 · answered by dream theatre 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Its not necessary as it was designed for that very purpose.
2007-02-28 05:11:13 · answer #8 · answered by briggs 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
no
2007-02-28 08:03:07 · answer #9 · answered by - 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋