What is idle? What is the rpm of the engine then?

Keeping the car's rpm as low as possible is the basis of eco-friendly and economical driving. At this time, the machine smokes the least. But does idling make it safe to drive a car? Not necessary. After all, the car is equipped with a gearbox for a reason! In some situations, such driving can be very dangerous. Therefore, idling should only be used when the situation requires it.. When should it be done? It's worth finding out because you'll be more knowledgeable about how to take care of your car's engine. Read our article!

Idling - what is it?

Idling means driving without a gear engaged. There are many myths around him. with engine failure or heavy economy. It's undeniable that low engine idling can indeed lead to savings, but such driving is often dangerous.. For example, if you need to accelerate quickly, you will need to select a different gear first. We don't want to draw some kind of gloomy scenario, and you may doubt its probability, but it's worth being aware of the risk.

Idle and idle are the same

You've probably heard the words "switch to neutral" more often than "select idle". However, you should be aware that these are the same action. "Luz" is just a colloquial term for what we write about. The word is much shorter, which is why most people use it. So, idling is a concept unfamiliar to some drivers, although in practice they do an excellent job with it. After all, it is on it that the car starts or performs individual maneuvers while driving through a crowded city.

Idling - how much are they?

Idling is usually around 700-900. Thus, they are really low and reduce the vehicle's fuel consumption to a minimum. Optimal and economical driving should not exceed about 1500 rpm, so this solution can be tempting if you are just driving downhill or want to slow down on a rarely traveled road.

Idling under engine braking

Idling is often confused with engine braking. But it's not the same. While it's true that idle is usually present, you usually stop the car in a certain gear. This engine braking consists of gradually downshifting. Thus, the car slows down using only the drive. Thus, the brake pads do not wear out and the driver can save fuel. However, gears are still used here.

Idling heavily loads the brake discs

Idling can be tempting as it means low revs, but you should consider that idling is bad for the car. Firstly, by riding in this way, you are heavily loading:

• shields;
• brake pads.

This, in turn, will mean that you will have to visit the mechanic much more often and pay for the replacement of worn parts. Therefore, idling should be used thoughtfully and with an awareness of what such a maneuver is intended for. In other cases, it is better to refuse.

Idling - when can it be useful?

Idling during standard off-road driving is not recommended. However, there are situations when its use can be really useful. For example, it is often used in car diagnostics. It is idling that allows you to check whether the car is moving smoothly. This makes it easier to detect sudden bursts of rotation and jerks. The low engine speed of the car in such a situation makes it a fairly safe method. So don't be surprised if your mechanic asks you to drive this way for a few meters.

Engine idle should only be used in certain situations. Feel free to shift the engine from high to low speeds if road conditions require it. However, if this is not necessary, do not do this, as brake pads and discs will suffer.