How to Use D/S Gear?
3 Answers
In automatic transmission vehicles, both D gear and S gear are forward gears. Normally, D gear is used for regular driving, while S gear can be used for overtaking and acceleration. S gear provides greater horsepower and stronger power, but it also consumes more fuel. On the other hand, D gear is more economical. Therefore, it is not recommended to use S gear during normal driving, especially at slow speeds. Below are the detailed explanations: 1. D (Driving) is the forward gear. When driving in this gear, the hydraulic control system shifts gears according to the preset program, operating entirely based on the set logic. Simply press the accelerator. 2. S (Sport) is the sport gear. When this gear is engaged, the hydraulic system can only connect to the first and second gears in the forward range, and the automatic transmission can only shift between these two gears, unable to engage higher gears. The upshift is delayed, resulting in naturally stronger power. When shifting from D gear to S gear, there will be a noticeable downshift phenomenon. This forced downshift is to obtain greater output torque, making the car feel more 'powerful'.
I've been driving automatic transmission cars for many years and am familiar with the use of D/S gears. During normal driving, I push the gear lever to the D position, and the vehicle shifts gears automatically, which is suitable for city driving or long-distance highway trips, providing a smooth and fuel-efficient ride. When more power is needed, such as for quick overtaking or climbing steep slopes, I gently switch to S gear. The engine speed remains higher, providing faster acceleration response and a bit of driving fun. Avoid using S gear for extended periods, as it can significantly increase fuel consumption and may add extra load to the engine. In some sports models, the S gear may also include a manual mode, simulating the feel of manual shifting. Remember to shift gears when the speed is stable to ensure safety. For daily commuting, D gear is sufficient, while S gear is more of an added bonus. Avoid using S gear on slippery roads to prevent skidding.
As an average family car user, I find the D/S mode quite straightforward: Start the car, press the brake, shift the gear lever from P to D, and you're ready to go—it handles gear shifts automatically, making daily driving hassle-free. For situations requiring strong acceleration, like overtaking on highways or climbing mountain roads, simply push it to S mode. The car will delay gear shifts to boost power, but fuel consumption will noticeably increase. I recommend using S mode only when necessary and for short durations. Beginners should practice more with D mode to ensure smooth speed transitions when shifting, avoiding sudden lever movements that could harm the transmission. S mode isn't suitable for rainy days or congested roads, as it can make the car unstable. For everyday use, D mode is sufficient—economical and safe, while S mode is more of a handy tool.
