How to Switch Between S Mode and D Mode?
3 Answers
Methods for switching between S mode and D mode: 1. To switch to manual mode, first shift the gear lever to D mode, then push it to the right. At this point, the transmission will enter sport mode; 2. You can then shift gears by pushing the gear lever forward or backward; 3. To switch back to automatic mode, simply push the gear lever to the left to the D mode position to complete the switch. At this point, the gear will be controlled by the computer. S mode stands for Sport mode, which is a high-rev, late-upshift, early-downshift gear. When shifted to S mode, the car has better power performance, making it suitable for climbing slopes or overtaking when more power is needed. You can basically switch between S mode and D mode at any time, but it is recommended not to shift from D mode to S mode when the vehicle speed is high or the engine RPM is high.
I've been driving for over ten years, and shifting from D to S gear is as simple as pulling the gear lever back while driving—no need to press the brake. I usually do this when overtaking or climbing hills. After switching, the RPM immediately rises, and the power kicks in right away, making it very responsive. However, I rarely use S gear in city driving because it burns fuel quickly, and frequent switching isn't good for the transmission. I remember once switching to S gear on a winding mountain road, and the car responded much faster, but it's best not to shift gears recklessly during turns, as it can lead to loss of control. Extra caution is also needed when switching in rainy conditions, as a sudden increase in power might cause skidding. Honestly, once you're familiar with driving, you'll naturally know when to use S gear—it's like shifting gears on a bicycle, all about feel.
From a mechanical perspective, the shift between S mode and D mode actually occurs on the same linkage rod. We can directly push the gear lever while driving without releasing the throttle or applying the brakes. Most vehicles will experience a slight jerk during the shift as the transmission computer adjusts its shifting logic. Operation methods may vary slightly between different car models—some require pressing an unlock button on the gear lever to engage S mode, while others allow direct pushing. I recommend avoiding gear shifts during high-speed cornering, as it can easily distract attention. Additionally, using S mode during long descents can help reduce brake overheating—a trick I've tried with good results. After shifting, the power response becomes quicker, but fuel consumption increases by at least 10%. For long-term use, remember to check the transmission fluid condition.
