What does the L gear mean in Honda?
2 Answers
L stands for Low gear, where the transmission will remain in 1st gear without upshifting. This gear is typically used for climbing steep slopes or handling long downhill descents. When the vehicle is in 1st gear, the torque can be fully utilized, preventing insufficient power during uphill climbs. 1. Function of L gear: The L gear can also be engaged during downhill driving. When facing prolonged downhill sections, frequent braking not only causes severe wear on the brake pads but also leads to overheating of the braking system, resulting in thermal fade and a significant reduction in braking force. By engaging the L gear, the vehicle maintains a low gear position, allowing engine braking to enhance driving safety. 2. Introduction to S gear: When rapid acceleration from a standstill is needed, engaging the S gear provides faster acceleration compared to the L gear. S gear refers to Sport mode, with 'S' being the abbreviation for 'sport'. When the S gear is engaged, the transmission shift logic becomes more aggressive, keeping the engine speed above 2000 RPM to ensure sufficient turbo pressure. Additionally, the vehicle's ECU increases fuel injection to achieve enhanced power output.
Once when I was driving my Honda on a long mountain road trip, I shifted to L gear while descending a steep slope and found braking much easier. This is the low gear of Honda's automatic transmission, equivalent to the low gear of a manual car, specifically designed for engine braking. Engine braking, simply put, means letting the engine help you slow down, reducing wear on the brake pads. For people like me who often drive in mountainous areas, it's particularly relied upon because continuous braking on long slopes can cause the brakes to overheat and fail, which is very dangerous. After using L gear, speed control becomes more stable, reducing the need for sudden braking. Especially when carrying heavy loads or on slippery roads, it provides stronger traction to prevent skidding. Remember to use it only when necessary, such as when going downhill or needing more power. Avoid using it during normal driving, as it can increase fuel consumption or damage the transmission.
