Should You Use D Gear or S Gear for Automatic Transmission on Highways?
2 Answers
When driving an automatic transmission car on highways, it is generally recommended to use the D gear, while the S gear can be briefly used for overtaking. Below are some precautions for driving an automatic transmission car: Do not shift to P gear at traffic lights: P gear is the parking gear, and usually, the key cannot be removed or the car cannot be locked unless the gear is in P. When in P gear, the transmission is locked. Do not coast in neutral: Coasting in neutral does not significantly save fuel in automatic transmission cars and may reduce the lubrication effect of the transmission oil, leading to increased wear over time. Do not shift too quickly: Shifting gears (between forward and reverse) before the car has completely stopped can cause significant wear to the transmission and even damage the gears.
As a car enthusiast who frequently studies automotive mechanisms, I believe that when driving an automatic transmission car on the highway, the D (Drive) mode is usually more suitable. D mode is the default driving setting, where the transmission automatically selects the optimal gear to keep engine RPM low, thereby improving fuel efficiency and reducing noise. Highway driving requires stability, and D mode provides smooth power delivery without keeping the engine at high RPM for extended periods. S (Sport) mode, on the other hand, is ideal when strong acceleration is needed, such as during overtaking or climbing slopes, as it delays gear shifts to maintain higher RPM. However, it's important to note that using S mode continuously will increase fuel consumption and potential wear—it's generally reserved for specific situations. D mode ensures comfort and economy during long-distance driving.