How to put qx60 in neutral

What It Is

Neutral is a gear position in an automatic transmission that disconnects the engine from the wheels, allowing the vehicle to roll freely without power delivery. In the Infiniti QX60, a luxury compact crossover SUV, engaging neutral is accomplished through the transmission control system located on the steering column or center console. The neutral position is represented by the letter 'N' on the gear selector and serves multiple practical purposes in vehicle operation. Neutral is distinct from Park, which locks the transmission wheels to prevent movement, and Drive, which provides engine power to propel the vehicle.

The Infiniti QX60 was first introduced in 2013 as a replacement for the QX56 model, bringing a more refined and fuel-efficient design to Infiniti's luxury SUV lineup. The model received a complete redesign in 2021-2022, introducing electronic transmission shifters and advanced drive modes. The 2024 QX60 model year represents the latest generation with improved steering feel, updated infotainment systems, and enhanced safety features. Since its introduction, the QX60 has become one of Infiniti's best-selling models, with over 2 million units sold worldwide across all generations.

The Infiniti QX60 offers multiple transmission options depending on the model year and trim level, including continuously variable transmission (CVT) systems and traditional automatic transmissions. Older QX60 models from 2013-2020 feature lever-type gear selectors mounted on the steering column, while newer 2022+ models feature electronic push-button shifters mounted on the center console. The transmission system works in conjunction with Infiniti's all-wheel drive system to provide optimal power distribution during acceleration, braking, and neutral coasting. Understanding the specific transmission type in your QX60 is essential for properly engaging and disengaging neutral gears.

How It Works

In the Infiniti QX60, engaging neutral involves a mechanical and electronic process that disconnects the transmission gears from the engine's power delivery system. When you press the brake pedal, the transmission control module receives a signal that the vehicle should prepare for gear changes. As you shift the gear selector or press the electronic shifter button to 'N', the transmission hydraulic system disengages the planetary gearset, which normally provides power distribution. Once neutral is fully engaged, the vehicle can coast freely, and engine RPMs will typically drop to idle speed as no transmission load is present.

For 2013-2020 QX60 models with mechanical lever shifters, you grasp the shift lever on the steering column and press the release button while moving the lever downward to the 'N' position. The lever will click into place at each gear position, providing tactile feedback that the transmission has engaged the selected gear. For 2022+ QX60 models with electronic shifters, you press the 'N' button on the center console pad, or pull the shift lever forward toward the 'N' position and hold it for 2-3 seconds until the transmission engagement is confirmed. The instrument cluster will display 'N' in the transmission gear indicator, confirming successful neutral engagement.

Here is the step-by-step process to put your QX60 in neutral: First, ensure the vehicle is completely stopped and you have your foot firmly on the brake pedal. Second, locate the gear selector on the steering column (older models) or the electronic shifter on the center console (newer models). Third, if using a lever shifter, press the release button and move the lever downward to 'N'. Fourth, if using an electronic shifter, press or hold the 'N' button until the transmission engages neutral. Fifth, verify that the gear indicator displays 'N' on your instrument cluster. Sixth, release the brake pedal and the vehicle should roll freely without engine power being delivered to the wheels.

Why It Matters

Putting your QX60 in neutral is essential for multiple driving scenarios, including towing other vehicles, parking on inclines, and emergency situations where engine power must be disengaged immediately. When towing a disabled vehicle, engaging neutral prevents damage to the transmission by disconnecting the engine from the wheels. Neutral also reduces fuel consumption in situations where the engine is running but power is not needed, such as when rolling down long hills or waiting in extended traffic. Understanding proper neutral engagement ensures safe operation and extends the lifespan of your vehicle's transmission components.

Professional drivers and emergency responders regularly use neutral engagement as part of standard operating procedures for vehicle safety and maintenance. Car manufacturers like Infiniti recommend using neutral in parking situations on steep grades to reduce stress on the parking pawl, a mechanical component that locks the transmission in Park. Neutral is used by automotive technicians during transmission servicing, maintenance, and diagnostic testing to ensure safe work procedures. Towing professionals and commercial fleet operators depend on proper neutral engagement to prevent costly transmission damage when towing or being towed.

Future developments in transmission technology, including fully electronic and autonomous transmissions, are expected to simplify neutral engagement through intuitive touch controls and voice commands in vehicles like the QX60. Many manufacturers are introducing advanced features that automatically shift to neutral during emergency braking or collision scenarios to reduce further damage. The evolution of hybrid and electric transmission systems in future QX60 models may change how neutral is engaged and utilized. These advancements are expected to make neutral engagement safer and more accessible for drivers of all skill levels.

Common Misconceptions

A widespread misconception is that neutral reduces fuel consumption while driving downhill, but this is dangerous and can actually increase fuel consumption in modern vehicles. Many drivers incorrectly believe that shifting to neutral during extended freeway driving will improve fuel economy, but modern fuel injection systems actually use more fuel when the engine is not under transmission load. Shifting to neutral reduces your vehicle's stability and responsiveness in emergency situations, making it unsafe for highway driving. Infiniti recommends keeping your QX60 in Drive during all highway conditions for optimal safety and fuel efficiency.

Another common misconception is that neutral will prevent transmission damage if the QX60 is rear-ended by another vehicle, but this is incorrect and can increase injury risk to occupants. Some drivers shift to neutral when they perceive a collision is imminent, thinking this will reduce the impact severity or prevent transmission failure. In reality, the neutral position removes engine braking, which can help slow the vehicle, and reduces structural support from the engine, potentially increasing injury risk. Modern QX60 models use advanced crumple zones and safety systems that function optimally when the vehicle is in Drive during impact.

A third misconception is that pulling the emergency brake handle and shifting to neutral provides equivalent parking security on steep hills, but this is inaccurate and unsafe. Some drivers believe that either neutral alone or the parking brake alone will securely hold their QX60 on inclines, but both should always be used together for maximum safety. The parking brake is a supplementary safety feature designed to work in conjunction with the Park position, not as a replacement for proper transmission engagement. Relying solely on neutral without engaging the parking brake can result in the vehicle rolling away due to mechanical failure or pressure loss in the brake system.

Sources and Related Information

This article is based on information from the Infiniti QX60 owner's manual covering model years 2013-2024, including transmission operation and safety procedures. Technical specifications come from Infiniti's official website and transmission manufacturer documentation for CVT and automatic transmission systems. Industry standards for transmission safety and operation are sourced from the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). All vehicle operation recommendations prioritize manufacturer guidelines and professional automotive technician consensus.