Do You Need to Press the Brake When Switching Between D and S Gears?
3 Answers
Switching between D and S gears does not require pressing the brake, nor does switching between S and D gears. Both S and D gears are specific to automatic transmissions. The S gear essentially represents the sport mode, where the operation of the car's engine and transmission changes once engaged. The D gear is a common gear in automatic transmission models, typically located towards the middle-rear of the gearshift console, behind the N gear, designed to automatically select gears while the car is moving forward. The D gear is a forward gear, but forward gears are not limited to D; they also include M, S, L gears, as well as numerically marked restricted gears like 1, 2, and 3.
I've been driving automatic transmission cars for over a decade, and I never need to press the brake when switching between D and S gears because these are shifts between forward driving modes, not changes in driving direction. The S gear is the sport mode, which enhances engine RPM response—for example, you can simply push the gear lever when overtaking, and the vehicle can safely switch while in motion. However, pay attention to speed: switching directly at high speeds might cause slight jerking and louder engine noise, which is normal. New drivers are advised to practice shifting at low speeds, such as 20-30 km/h, to develop a feel. If you're worried about mistakes, switching while stationary is also fine, but braking isn't a mandatory step. Overall, the key to safe driving is staying focused and avoiding distracted gear operations.
As a car enthusiast, I often switch to S mode for fun while driving, simply pushing directly from D mode without braking, which is easy and convenient. S mode optimizes the transmission logic, maintaining higher engine RPM for more agile acceleration, making it especially suitable for high-speed cornering or uphill driving. However, avoid prolonged use as it increases fuel consumption; switching back to D mode in congested areas can save fuel. The switching process varies slightly between different car models—for instance, manual mode cars may also have S mode, but the principle remains the same: the electronic control system handles the gear shift without requiring additional braking. Additionally, ensure steady RPM before switching and avoid sudden throttle presses to prevent abruptness.
