How to Use D and S Gears?
2 Answers
Using D and S gears is as follows: when switching from D gear to S gear or from S gear to D gear, there is no need to press the brake pedal or stop the car; you can directly switch while driving. The automatic transmission gears are: 1. D gear stands for Drive; 2. R gear stands for Reverse; 3. P gear stands for Park; 4. L gear stands for Low; 5. N gear stands for Neutral; 6. W gear stands for Winter/Snow mode; 7. S gear stands for Sport mode. An automatic transmission vehicle does not require the driver to manually shift gears; the vehicle will automatically select the appropriate gear based on driving speed and traffic conditions.
Driving with D and S modes is quite straightforward. I usually drive an automatic transmission car, and D mode is my most frequently used setting: after starting, push the gear lever to this position, and the transmission shifts gears automatically, providing smooth and fuel-efficient driving, ideal for steady city and highway cruising. When I want to accelerate or tackle steep hills, I switch to S mode: simply push the gear lever into the S position while driving (no need to stop), and the engine revs up instantly with sharper throttle response, making overtaking easier or climbing hills more powerful. For example, last month while driving on mountain roads, I used S mode to climb steadily before switching back to D for better fuel efficiency. I also use S mode when descending hills to help control speed and reduce brake wear. However, remember that S mode consumes more fuel and increases engine noise, making it unsuitable for prolonged use to avoid damaging the car. Always ensure road conditions are safe when switching modes—avoid reckless shifts on slippery surfaces to prevent skidding. Adapting gear shifts based on road conditions allows for a more enjoyable and safer drive. On long trips, I prefer using D mode most of the time, occasionally switching to S for a bit of excitement.
