What do the PRNDSL gears mean respectively?
2 Answers
PRNDSL gears respectively refer to: 1. P gear is the parking gear, used for parking, which utilizes a mechanical device to lock the transmission part of the car, preventing the car from moving; 2. R gear is the reverse gear, used for reversing the vehicle. Usually, you need to press the safety button on the shift lever to move it to the R gear; 3. N gear is the neutral gear. When the shift lever is placed in the N gear, the power between the engine and the transmission is cut off and separated; 4. D gear is the drive gear, used for normal road driving. When the shift lever is placed in the D gear, the driver can control the speed simply by adjusting the accelerator pedal; 5. S gear is the sport gear. In the S sport mode, the transmission can shift freely; 6. L gear is the low gear, used when the car is climbing a slope, allowing the car to obtain greater power.
I remember when I first learned to drive, the instructor told me that the letters PRNDL on the automatic transmission represent different modes: P stands for Park, which locks the wheels when engaged. I often use it after coming to a complete stop, especially on slopes to prevent rolling. R is Reverse, specifically for moving the car backward. Before reversing, I always make sure the surroundings are safe before shifting. N is Neutral, which I switch to at red lights to reduce engine load; some drivers also use it when washing or towing the car. D is Drive, the go-to for daily commutes, with automatic shifting making it the most hassle-free. L is Low gear, used only for steep climbs or heavy towing, as it increases torque and prevents engine overload. Nowadays, new cars even have an S for Sport mode, but my car only goes up to L, making me feel that older designs focus more on practicality. Symbols might vary slightly between brands, but the general principle remains the same—with time behind the wheel, it all becomes second nature.
