What does HOLD mean on the automatic gear lever of the Sylphy?
2 Answers
HOLD on the automatic gear lever of the Sylphy refers to the gear hold function. More details about HOLD are as follows: 1. HOLD means "hold." When this button is pressed, the automatic transmission enters "hold mode," and the "hold mode indicator light" on the dashboard illuminates. Pressing the HOLD button again returns the transmission to the normal automatic shifting mode, and the "hold mode indicator light" on the dashboard turns off. 2. In hold mode, the transmission remains in a specific gear, making the automatic transmission operate similarly to a manual transmission.
I just started driving a Nissan Sylphy automatic last month and found the HOLD button on the gear lever quite interesting. Essentially, it's a temporary gear lock function that keeps the transmission from automatically shifting up or down. For example, when you're climbing a hill or going downhill, pressing it will keep the car firmly in 2nd or 3rd gear, providing stronger power or engine braking for better control. This is particularly useful on rainy or snowy roads, reducing the risk of skidding. In daily traffic jams, it can also minimize frequent shifting vibrations, making the ride smoother and slightly improving fuel efficiency. However, beginners shouldn't use it recklessly—pressing it on the highway might cause the RPM to surge. It's recommended to try it in low-speed scenarios like parking lot ramps. Overall, it's a clever design but not a magic switch—it only adds value when used in the right situations.