What does the R gear mean when driving?

[Haley]

The R gear is the reverse gear. The car can only be shifted into the R gear after coming to a complete stop and pressing the brake pedal. P is the parking gear, specifically used when parking an automatic transmission vehicle. When shifted into P gear, there is no power transmission, and the locking mechanism inside the transmission locks the power output shaft, preventing the vehicle from moving. Forcing movement in this state can damage the transmission, so towing requires lifting the drive wheels off the ground. N is the neutral gear, functioning on the same principle as the neutral gear in a manual transmission, and is used for brief stops. D is the drive gear, also known as the forward gear, which is the gear used when driving. When shifted into this gear, the driver's task is to control the accelerator and brake pedals—pressing the accelerator to accelerate and the brake to decelerate.

[VonHadley]

The R gear stands for Reverse gear when driving. When I first learned to drive, my instructor specifically emphasized this point—you must wait until the car comes to a complete stop before shifting into it, otherwise the car may suddenly roll backward, which is very dangerous. Nowadays, whenever I reverse, I make it a habit to check the rearview mirror and surroundings more carefully, especially in parking lots where children or pets might suddenly dart out. Also, reversing speed shouldn’t be too fast; steady control is key. If you're driving an automatic transmission car, the R gear is usually located near the top of the gear lever. When shifting, press the brake pedal firmly until you hear a click to confirm engagement. Remember, stay calm while reversing—avoid sudden braking or aggressive acceleration. Taking it slow helps prevent scrapes and collisions.

[LaArthur]

After driving for so many years, what I care about most is the safety of reversing. The R gear stands for reverse gear, which is used to make the vehicle move backward. Before shifting into it, you must ensure the car is completely stopped and the brake is firmly pressed. I've seen too many reversing accidents on the road, all because drivers were too careless—either not checking blind spots or going too fast. My advice is to always check behind and to both sides when using R gear, and it's best to have a reversing camera for assistance. If the road is slippery in winter, be extra cautious when reversing, and avoid shifting into R gear on slopes. Overall, safe driving is more important than anything else; developing good habits can save lives.

[LeTheo]

Thinking back to the last time in the supermarket parking lot, my wife asked me to reverse into the parking space, and I skillfully used the R gear to get it done. Engaging the R gear is the command for reversing, which makes the wheels rotate backward. When driving in the city, I don't use the R gear much, mainly operating in tight spaces where movements need to be gentle and not rushed. The operation is quite simple: when the car is stationary, press the brake and shift the gear lever into the R position. Remember not to engage the R gear while the car is moving, as it can damage the transmission.