Can I keep using S gear on the highway?
2 Answers
It is not advisable to continuously use S gear on the highway as frequent use can accelerate transmission wear and affect its lifespan. S gear, commonly referred to as Sport mode, primarily alters the transmission's shifting logic to operate at higher RPM ranges, thereby increasing torque output. Precautions for highway driving: 1. Conduct a thorough vehicle inspection before driving; 2. Maintain a safe distance from large vehicles, avoid prolonged tailgating, and never drive side by side; 3. Do not occupy the emergency lane unless absolutely necessary; 4. Observe speed limit signs and control your speed; 5. Pay special attention to roadside barriers and avoid driving too close to them.
As an experienced driver with years behind the wheel, I don't think using S gear on highways is a sustainable practice. S gear is essentially sport mode - it keeps the engine at higher RPMs for quicker acceleration, which does feel thrilling. But the problem is it guzzles fuel like crazy, increasing consumption by 20% or more. Prolonged use isn't good for the engine either, especially since highways rarely require frequent acceleration. I once drove from Hangzhou to Shanghai entirely in S mode - the fuel gauge dropped alarmingly fast, and the car had this unsettling vibration when I got home, almost like it was panting. Nowadays I'll switch to S gear briefly for overtaking or hill climbs when I want some excitement, but for normal cruising I switch back to D gear - much smoother and more economical. A car is like an old friend - you've got to take good care of it if you want it to last. Otherwise, repairs become both costly and troublesome.
