What are the P, R, N, D, and M gears?

[Georgia]

Introduction to P, R, N, D, and M gears: P - Parking Gear: P stands for Parking, meaning the parking gear or starting gear. When the vehicle is parked and not moving, the gear is shifted to this position, where the wheels are mechanically locked to prevent sliding. However, it is unnecessary to shift to P for short stops, such as waiting at a traffic light. R - Reverse Gear: R is the abbreviation for Reverse, the reverse gear. As the name suggests, this gear is only used when reversing. Regardless of the previous gear, to shift into R, you must firmly press the brake and wait until the vehicle comes to a complete stop. Otherwise, it may affect the lifespan of the transmission. N - Neutral Gear: N stands for Neutral, the neutral gear. Its function is similar to P but with some differences. This gear is used when the vehicle needs to be temporarily stopped. Note that this gear position indicates neutral, and to prevent the vehicle from rolling on a slope, you must press the brake. Even on flat ground, it is advisable to engage the handbrake. D - Drive Gear: D stands for Drive, the forward gear or driving gear. It is used when the vehicle is moving forward and can be used for extended periods. The vehicle automatically shifts gears based on the driver's throttle input to achieve speed changes. M - Manual Gear: M is the abbreviation for Manual-transmission, the manual gear. Literally, it means using a manual gear lever to achieve gear shifting. Generally, only vehicles with a manual-automatic transmission have this feature.

[JosephineDella]

I've been driving automatic transmission cars since the 1990s, and I'm as familiar with these gears as with old friends. P stands for Park, which must be engaged before turning off the engine—it locks the transmission to prevent the car from rolling, especially on slopes where using P along with the handbrake provides double safety. R is Reverse, used when backing out of garages or narrow alleys, but always check the mirrors and blind spots before moving to avoid scrapes. N is Neutral, handy at red lights or during car washes for fuel efficiency and ease, though prolonged use can wear the transmission. D is Drive, the go-to for everyday driving with its automatic shifting, making city commutes less tiring. M is Manual mode, perfect for snowy conditions or mountain roads where manual upshifts and downshifts help control speed and prevent skidding—I once safely navigated through heavy rain using M. Always come to a complete stop and press the brake before shifting to avoid part damage, and regular transmission maintenance extends its life. These tips have saved me countless times—safe driving is everything.

[CaydenRose]

As a new driver who just got my license, it took me months to understand these gear positions. P (Park) - Must engage when parking, otherwise the key won't come out and the car might roll. I remember once forgetting P on a slope and almost had an accident. R (Reverse) - Need to lightly press the brake to activate when backing out, ensure rearview mirrors are clear. N (Neutral) - For brief stops like traffic jams, saves fuel but not recommended for long periods, use handbrake to prevent movement. D (Drive) - Use it daily for automatic transmission, makes driving effortless and smart, allowing focus on the road. M (Manual mode) - Manually downshift in suburbs or downhill to control speed, like using M on long descents to avoid hard braking and protect the brake system. My instructor taught me to fully stop before shifting to protect the transmission - I often made mistakes at first but now I'm proficient, driving with more confidence while never forgetting the principle of safety first.

[StVictoria]

As a car enthusiast, these gears add to the driving pleasure. P (Park) is for parking, turning off the engine, and locking the transmission, which is a basic safety operation. R (Reverse) is used for backing up; movements should be slow and not rushed. N (Neutral) is suitable for temporary parking, car washing, or towing. D (Drive) is for daily smooth driving, the most commonly used, saving effort and worry. M (Manual) mode is for manual gear shifting on mountain roads or racetracks, controlling engine RPM to enhance the sense of acceleration, such as using M to downshift for quick overtaking to increase excitement, but in the city, it's still important to drive steadily, avoiding frequent gear shifts to prevent overheating.