So when I am driving and get to some stop lights - if the 450h is going to be stationary for say 1 minute - do you put on the park brake? Should I put it in neutral or park ? What combination is best ?

Just want to make sure I look after the car and its transmission..

Thanks

 

It's a car, so I treat it like one. I just step on the brake and wait. Of course, unless I'm waiting for a long cargo train, then I will probably put it in park and then shut off the car.

 

I would say just keep your foot on the brake with the gear in drive.

I know that in a lot of asian countries, they like to put it in neutral and then press the parking brake so that they can rest their legs in between long lights. But I think that is unnecessary in the states

 

isn't this a moot point with the RX450h? if you are stopped at the light, the engine will shut off to prevent idling...

 

i don't know your background, so i don't mean to offend you by asking..
Are you coming from a "manual" driving history?

the reason i ask that is, when i used to drive manual/stick shift a few decades ago, i always put it on neutral on stop lights especially if it's a 2-3 minutes wait.

Now to answer your question, ALL automatic cars/SUVs regardless if it's a hybrid or not DON'T NEED to be placed on Neutral in a traffic light. just place your foot on the brake and wait for the green light.

 

Hi Markrivers

Indeed I do come from a manual driving background. Thanks for the reply - I will take your advice: I just wanted to make sure I treat my new RX450h nicely.

Thanks again and all those that posted too

 

If it's a long wait (as in waiting for a freight train to pass, just keep your foot on the brake and/or use park. The ICE will only cycle on or off as necessary to keep the traction batteries charged. And A/C, radio, etc will keep working for you. No problem.

 

You're welcome..
Don't let the RX spoil you

you made me miss my stick shift car..

 

My other car is manual transmission. In that one, I always put the gear in neutral but continue to step on the brake. Then I let off on the clutch. I don't put the hand brake on even on an incline.

On the Lexus, I usually step on the brake. Once in a while I put it in neutral but still stepping on the brake.