How to use Ford's S gear?
2 Answers
When climbing a slope or exiting an underground garage, you can use the S gear for climbing. Introduction to car gears: Car gears usually consist of D gear, R gear, P gear, N gear, and S gear. Among them, D gear is the forward gear, R gear is the reverse gear, P gear is the parking gear, N gear is the neutral gear, and S gear is the sport gear (for models equipped with sport mode). Precautions for gear usage: The vehicle must be completely stopped before using the P gear, otherwise the mechanical part of the automatic transmission may be damaged. When the vehicle is parked and not in use, the gear should be in this position, at which time the wheels are mechanically locked, and the handbrake can be used to prevent slipping. Damage may occur.
Driving in Ford's S mode feels really exhilarating. I usually stick to D mode in city traffic jams, but when I hit the highway or want to overtake, I switch to S mode. It increases the engine RPM, shifts gears faster, and makes the car more responsive. For example, when I drive my Ford Focus, the S mode is right on the gear lever—just shift to S to activate sport mode. I've also tried using the paddle shifters on the steering wheel; upshifting and downshifting are super smooth, making uphill climbs much easier. I remember it felt a bit unfamiliar at first, but after a few tries, I got the hang of it. This feature not only enhances driving pleasure but also improves control in rainy or snowy conditions. However, I generally use it only for short bursts, as prolonged use can increase fuel consumption. Safety first—don’t misuse S mode in chaotic traffic. Overall, once you’re familiar with the controls, it definitely adds fun to everyday driving.
