Can You Shift Directly from D to L in an Automatic Transmission?
2 Answers
You can shift directly between them since both are forward gears. However, it's important to adjust the speed to around 60 km/h when shifting. Otherwise, if the speed is too high, it may cause a strong jerking sensation, excessive impact on the transmission, and reduce its lifespan. Below is an introduction to the various gears in an automatic transmission car: P (Parking) Gear: This is the "Park" gear, used when parking. After arriving at your destination or when parking for an extended period, shift the gear lever into this position. Note: The vehicle must be completely stopped before shifting into P gear. Shifting into P gear before the vehicle has fully stopped can damage parts of the automatic transmission. When in P gear, the wheels are mechanically locked, preventing the vehicle from moving forward or backward. Therefore, always use P gear when parking on slopes. Additionally, during short stops (e.g., at traffic lights), it's best not to shift into P gear to avoid severe transmission damage in case of a rear-end collision. R (Reverse) Gear: This is the "Reverse" gear, used when backing up. To reverse, press the safety button on the lever to shift into R gear. However, ensure the vehicle is completely stopped before shifting to avoid serious transmission damage. N (Neutral) Gear: This is the "Neutral" gear, also known as the neutral position. At traffic lights, you can shift into this gear and press the brake pedal. If the wait is long, it's advisable to engage the handbrake, allowing your foot to rest. A common misconception is that shifting into N gear while coasting downhill or at high speeds saves fuel. This is incorrect—it not only doesn’t save fuel but can also damage the transmission. D (Drive) Gear: This is the "Drive" gear, used for forward motion. Shift into this gear, press the accelerator, and the vehicle will move. In this gear, the transmission automatically shifts based on speed and throttle input. At traffic lights, you can remain in D gear while pressing the brake. For short waits, this is fine, but prolonged stops can raise transmission fluid temperature and degrade its quality. L (Low) Gear: This is the "Low" gear, used for low-speed forward motion. In this gear, the transmission operates only in low gear (equivalent to 1st gear in a manual transmission) and does not shift automatically based on speed. This gear is typically used for climbing or descending steep slopes. In low gear, the drive wheels deliver high torque, providing sufficient power for steep climbs. Prolonged braking can overheat brake pads, reducing braking effectiveness—a significant hazard on long or steep descents. Shifting into L gear uses the engine's low RPM to control the vehicle's speed, eliminating the need for constant braking. M (Manual) Gear: This is the manual mode, allowing the driver to manually shift gears up or down. It can be used for climbing or descending slopes and for quick overtaking. S (Sport) Gear: This is the "Sport" mode. In S gear, the car achieves instant acceleration, and the high engine RPM helps remove carbon deposits. Many automatic cars have an S gear. In Sport mode, the transmission shifts freely but delays shifts to keep the engine at high RPMs longer, maintaining low-gear, high-RPM operation for greater torque and acceleration—though at higher fuel consumption.
When I used to drive American cars, I often operated this way. The manual clearly stated that you can directly shift to L gear while driving in D gear, the key is to match the speed. For example, when going downhill for engine braking, it's particularly smooth to reduce the speed below 60 mph before shifting to L gear. But last time when I drove my friend's Honda, it noticeably jerked when shifting to L gear at 40 mph, and then I realized Japanese cars have more restrictions. It's recommended to release the throttle to let the speed drop below 40 km/h before shifting, and you can hear a 'click' sound from the transmission indicating it's ready. Older cars especially need attention—my dad's decade-old Camry revved up to 5000 rpm when shifting to L gear at high speed. Nowadays, new cars mostly have protection programs, but developing the habit of slowing down before shifting is always correct.
