Should I use S gear or D gear on the highway?
4 Answers
On the highway, you should use D gear. The gears of an automatic transmission car include: 1. P gear is the parking gear, used for long-term parking of the vehicle; 2. R gear is the reverse gear, engaged when the vehicle needs to move backward; 3. N gear is the neutral gear, used when the vehicle is parked for a short time without turning off the engine; 4. S gear is the sport mode, making the vehicle drive more sportily; 5. M gear refers to the manual mode, where the driver manually shifts gears when the gear lever is in M position. The method for reversing an automatic transmission car: 1. Press the brake to stop the car completely, hold the lock switch on the gear lever and shift to R gear; 2. Observe the rearview mirrors and the reversing camera, ensuring there are no obstacles behind the car, and honk twice to alert pedestrians and vehicles nearby; 3. Slowly release the brake to allow the car to move at a low speed.
I mainly drive on highways for commuting, and I find the D (Drive) mode more suitable as it provides smoother and more fuel-efficient driving, especially during long cruising periods where the engine maintains a stable RPM without the aggressive acceleration of S (Sport) mode that increases fuel consumption. Honestly, the S mode only offers slight advantages on highways when overtaking or climbing hills, such as slightly improved responsiveness, but in most cases, D mode is sufficient. I’ve also noticed a detail—some car models may cause the transmission to shift more frequently in S mode on highways, potentially accelerating wear on components and reducing longevity, which is why I stick to D mode. Additionally, combining cruise control makes driving even more relaxed. I recommend regularly checking transmission fluid and tire pressure to ensure safety and efficiency. Remember, comfort is key for long-distance driving—don’t sacrifice smoothness for momentary thrills.
I personally enjoy the sporty feel of driving, so I sometimes use the S mode on the highway, such as when accelerating to overtake in light traffic. The S mode allows the engine to rev higher, providing quicker response and a more dynamic driving experience. However, I should remind you not to use it continuously, as it significantly increases fuel consumption—much higher than the D mode—and prolonged high-speed cruising in S mode may cause jerking, making the ride less comfortable. The D mode is more suitable for normal conditions, especially in traffic jams or at low speeds, offering smoother performance. I also pay attention to vehicle maintenance, such as transmission care, which is crucial for longevity. When shifting gears, consider road conditions and fuel economy to balance driving pleasure and cost, ensuring both enjoyment and avoiding unnecessary expenses.
I've been driving for decades, and on the highway, I mostly stick to D gear for safety and smoothness. While S gear can provide quicker acceleration at times, it also increases risks on the highway and can be distracting. Driving in D gear is worry-free, maintains a steady speed, and consumes less fuel, which suits my habits. Additionally, maintaining a constant speed on the highway is the safest approach. Using D gear in line with speed limits helps avoid sudden acceleration or braking, reducing the likelihood of accidents. I also pay attention to vehicle checks, such as ensuring the brakes and steering systems are functioning properly, which are more important than gear selection. Overall, D gear is suitable for most scenarios, making driving simpler and more reliable.
