Auto In Or Out?

[Toybear.yonrin]

Being new to the club I posted this in 'General Discussion' ...Having browsed a bit more I think it should be here, so here it is again!........Hi folks, as the proud new owner of a 2004 RAV 4 Auto (could't afford a new one!) I'm delighted with it.

Could anyone tell me....is it better to stay in Drive at a long wait at lights etc, or go into Neutral while waiting?

I'd really appreciate some advice...Thanks in anticipation. helpsmilie.gif

[anchorman]

Welcome to the club.

I tend to treat an auto very much like a manual in that if I anticipate being detained for an unusual period of time I will put it into neutral. To try and quantify this, if I get brought to a stand by traffic lights that change on the approach then I go into neutral but if I get stopped and expect them to change imminently then leave it in gear. With an auto this saves an undue build up of temperature and reduces fuel consumption and with a manual it extends the life of the clutch thrust bearing.

[Toybear.yonrin]

Welcome to the club.

I tend to treat an auto very much like a manual in that if I anticipate being detained for an unusual period of time I will put it into neutral. To try and quantify this, if I get brought to a stand by traffic lights that change on the approach then I go into neutral but if I get stopped and expect them to change imminently then leave it in gear. With an auto this saves an undue build up of temperature and reduces fuel consumption and with a manual it extends the life of the clutch thrust bearing.

Thanks Anchorman! :D