What does the W in automatic transmission mean?

[CaydenAnn]

"W" key: It is the snow driving mode key. The car's snow mode is achieved through an automated program to start in second gear, reducing the torque output at startup to ensure a gentler and smoother output, preventing the wheels from slipping on snow. When this mode is enabled, the engine's torque is restrained, preventing it from quickly reaching peak torque, thereby reducing the likelihood of wheel spin and skidding when driving on snow. In fact, as long as you are starting on slippery roads, pressing the "W" key can help the car start smoothly and avoid tail swing.

[VivianRose]

Having driven automatic transmission cars for over a decade, I've actually encountered the W gear before. This was actually a winter mode found in older automatic transmission models, specifically designed for slippery road conditions in snow. When shifted into W gear, the transmission automatically starts from second gear, providing more stable acceleration than normal to prevent tire slippage on icy surfaces. I remember that winter when I traveled to Northeast China on business during heavy snowfall - using W gear made the steering noticeably more stable. However, it's best not to use this gear regularly as starting in second gear is slower and consumes more fuel, potentially leading to carbon buildup with prolonged use. Modern vehicles have replaced this with electronic snow mode buttons - my latest SUV model doesn't even have a W gear anymore. If your car has a letter W instead of a snow terrain symbol, it's best to check the manual before operation.

[DiClara]

Auto repair shop mechanics are well aware that the W gear in automatic transmissions is a special feature. Originally designed to address wheel slippage during starts on icy or snowy roads, its principle involves the transmission skipping first gear and starting directly in second gear. This results in gentler acceleration and slightly better tire traction. During repairs, many vehicles driven from northern regions in winter show traces of ice and snow around the gear lever. However, this gear setting causes the engine to operate at low speed with high RPM, and prolonged use in urban areas can lead to increased carbon buildup. In severe cases, it may even damage the catalytic converter. It's advisable to pair this gear with a low-speed driving habit in practical use. Nowadays, most new automatic transmission vehicles have phased out this physical gear design, replacing it with electronic anti-slip systems.

[NathanFitz]

Last time I accompanied a friend to buy a used car, I was puzzled by the 'W' letter on the gear shift. The salesperson explained that it's a special gear for snowy and icy roads, where the transmission would alter its shifting logic once engaged. Simply put, it prevents sudden acceleration like in normal starts, making it suitable for icy slopes or loose snow. I personally tested it on the icy road in my neighborhood—starting in D gear caused wheel spin, but switching to W gear made it much smoother. However, I noticed the car couldn't reach higher speeds afterward, and the tachometer showed higher RPMs. A mechanic later told me this design puts significant strain on the transmission and actually shortens component lifespan when used outside snowy conditions. Nowadays, this feature has been replaced by traction control systems.