How to Use the L Gear in CR-V?
2 Answers
When starting, you need to press the brake pedal, shift into gear, release the handbrake, and smoothly lift the brake pedal, then control the throttle appropriately based on road conditions. When starting, it's important not to press the accelerator before moving off to avoid unnecessary fuel consumption and wear. After starting, try to avoid flooring the accelerator. When climbing a slope or driving on slippery roads, press the brake, shift to L gear, and then accelerate. After passing through special road sections, press the brake pedal to slow down, then shift the gear lever to another gear.
As a long-time CRV owner with eight years of experience, I mainly use the L gear during long downhill drives. After my brake pads smoked during a continuous descent on a mountain road last time, I learned my lesson—now I slow down to below 40 km/h before steep descents, press the brake, and shift into L gear. The engine braking immediately kicks in, automatically maintaining the speed between 15-30 km/h. At this point, even if I release the accelerator without braking, the car won't accelerate, saving the brake pads. It's especially useful on slippery roads during rain or snow, but never shift into L gear suddenly at high speeds, as it can damage the transmission. It can also be used occasionally in stop-and-go traffic, offering smoother performance than S gear, though it may increase fuel consumption by about half a liter.
