Can Putting Automatic Car in Neutral Harm Car Engine?
Introduction
Automatic transmissions are designed to shift gears automatically, based on the car’s speed and throttle position. However, there are times when you may want to put your car in neutral, such as when you’re stopped at a long light or when you’re coasting down a hill. But can putting your car in neutral harm the engine?
The answer is: it depends.
When Putting Your Car in Neutral Can Harm the Engine
There are two main situations in which putting your car in neutral can harm the engine:
- When you’re driving at high speeds. When you’re driving at high speeds, the engine needs to be in gear in order to provide enough resistance to the wheels. If you put the car in neutral at high speeds, the engine will over-rev and could be damaged.
- When you’re towing a heavy load. When you’re towing a heavy load, the engine needs to be in gear in order to provide enough power to pull the load. If you put the car in neutral while towing a heavy load, the engine could stall.
When Putting Your Car in Neutral Will Not Harm the Engine
There are also two main situations in which putting your car in neutral will not harm the engine:
- When you’re stopped at a light or sign. When you’re stopped at a light or sign, it’s perfectly fine to put your car in neutral. This will help to save fuel and reduce emissions.
- When you’re coasting down a hill. When you’re coasting down a hill, it’s also fine to put your car in neutral. This will help to save fuel and allow you to take advantage of the hill’s momentum.
Conclusion
So, can putting your automatic car in neutral harm the engine? The answer is: it depends. If you’re driving at high speeds or towing a heavy load, then putting your car in neutral could damage the engine. However, if you’re stopped at a light or sign or coasting down a hill, then putting your car in neutral will not harm the engine.
If you’re ever in doubt about whether or not it’s safe to put your car in neutral, it’s always best to consult your car’s owner’s manual.
