There is no account of the number of broken copies surrounding the controversy over whether an automatic transmission can be activated in P or N modes while waiting at traffic lights. Getting acquainted with the answers to this question on the Internet, one may get the impression that there is simply no general opinion on this matter. Including from the manufacturers themselves. In fact, this difficult question has a very specific answer, although not the one that many expect to hear.
The voiced question has no general answer. This is because there are a lot of varieties and models of automatic transmissions today. In general, they are very similar, but can vary greatly in detail. Including such as operating rules and the use of individual automatic transmission modes. In order to get a specific answer to an exciting question, it is best to look in the manual for your favorite "swallow". There, in the section dedicated to the gearbox, it will be precisely indicated which modes and under what conditions should be used. All these tips and instructions are left by the manufacturer, and therefore it is strongly recommended to follow them.
Only one thing can be said with complete certainty: claims that the "Parking" or "Neutral" modes with frequent use can break the transmission are nothing more than a popular driving myth. From switching to P or N during short stops, none of the boxes have actually broken. Including with regular use. True, there are nuances here.
First of all, remember that in "Neutral" mode the vehicle is still held in place by the hand or main brake. Therefore, simply taking your foot off the corresponding pedal is not a good idea. That is why many drivers simply activate the "Parking" mode. You can safely switch to the mentioned modes if the stop will definitely last more than 15 seconds.
Moreover, it is strongly recommended to remove the load from the robotic gearbox during a 15-second idle time by switching to N mode. Excessive load on the components during stopping causes much more damage to the structure than frequent shifting.
If you want to know even more about automotive topics, then you should read about how to equip a garage and organize ergonomic storageto keep everything close at hand.