I like to put my transmission in neutral while I'm coasting down the west side of Snoqualmie Pass. It's about a five mile coast, then the car slows down to below 60 MPH when I then shift back into drive. Is this good or bad for the transmission?
transmission neutral coasting
Aug 14, 2005
6 Replies
Robb S via CarKB.com did pass the time by typing:
The engine is still turning the tranny vs towing so no damage will occur.
What will happen is the vehicle suspension becomes unloaded and hard to control. Small bumps will now cause great swings in the suspension and that's why it's illegal to drive like that. Heck, if the hill is that steep the vehicle will coast in gear anyway and using the engine to keep speed in control is easier on your vehicle than riding the brakes.
That's a long hill he's talking about too. Lots of the time there is no one else on it, but after a big ski weekend it can be bumper to bumper.
Earle
It's bad, and it's illegal.
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