Do I need to press the brake when shifting from S gear to D gear in an automatic transmission car?
3 Answers
Shifting from S gear to D gear in an automatic transmission car does not require pressing the brake. The reason is: S gear and D gear are of the same nature, belonging to the same mechanical mechanism, and both share the same transmission, allowing seamless switching between them. Automatic transmissions do not require the driver to manually shift gears; the vehicle automatically selects the appropriate gear based on driving speed and traffic conditions. The D gear in an automatic transmission refers to the manual mode of a semi-automatic transmission, allowing manual control over gear shifting (upshifting and downshifting), and pressing the brake or releasing the accelerator is not necessary when using D gear. S gear is the sport mode of the car, where the transmission can shift freely, but the shifting timing is delayed to keep the engine at higher RPMs for a longer duration.
I've been driving for over a decade and have tried various automatic transmission models. Shifting from S mode to D mode generally doesn't require pressing the brake. S mode is the sport mode, with higher RPM and stronger power, making overtaking exhilarating but consuming more fuel; D mode offers smoother and more fuel-efficient daily driving. I often switch directly between them on highways, and the vehicle responds smoothly and quickly without any jerking or unusual noises. The transmission system is intelligently designed to handle gear changes automatically. Some worry about damaging the car when shifting, but there are internal circuit protection mechanisms. Unless your car is particularly old or the manual explicitly requires it, you can simply turn the knob directly. New drivers who are unsure can first try it on an empty road at low speeds to ensure safety. Develop good habits, such as regularly checking transmission fluid, to prevent issues.
As someone who often helps friends with car repairs, I've seen many transmission systems. Shifting from S to D without pressing the brake is safe since both gears are forward modes, unlike reverse which requires brake intervention. If you notice vehicle shaking or unusual noises, try gently pressing the brake, but normally it's unnecessary. Automatic transmissions use computer-controlled shift logic - S mode keeps engine RPM higher while D maintains fuel efficiency. Remember to service your transmission regularly and check fluid condition to prevent clogging. Simply put, feel free to shift while driving and keep your focus on the road. Maintaining good driving habits extends component lifespan.
