How to switch from D/S gear to S gear?
2 Answers
To shift from D gear to S gear in an automatic transmission, the vehicle must be completely stationary on the road; otherwise, it may damage the car's automatic transmission. Relevant information is as follows: 1. Starting in P gear: When starting in P gear, it is essential to press the brake pedal. Since the car is just starting, not pressing the brake can easily cause the car to roll. 2. Driving in neutral: When driving in neutral, it is necessary to press the brake. In fact, experienced drivers do not recommend driving in neutral. However, if you must shift to neutral, remember to press the brake to avoid emergencies that cannot be resolved. 3. Shifting from N gear: When shifting from N gear to D gear or R gear, you also need to press the brake. Not pressing the brake can cause the car to lurch forward or stop abruptly, which can cause significant damage to the transmission system.
Shifting to S mode is quite simple, and I often do this while driving. First, ensure the car is moving slowly or completely stopped—safety comes first. Then, gently push the gear lever from the D position to the S position. Most automatic transmission cars, like Toyotas or Fords, have clear markings on the gear lever, with D and S positioned close together, making the shift as smooth as a flick. S mode is the sport mode; after engaging it, the engine revs higher, delivering stronger acceleration, which is particularly useful for overtaking on highways or climbing steep hills, though it does consume more fuel. I remember once on a long uphill stretch of the highway, switching to S mode gave the car a powerful boost, allowing me to easily pass slower vehicles. It's worth noting that there might be slight variations between car models—for instance, some German cars allow switching via steering wheel buttons—so it's best to check your car's manual just in case, avoiding any rushed operations while driving. In short, it becomes very convenient once you're used to it, but use it only when extra power is needed to avoid putting excessive strain on the engine.