What happens if an automatic transmission car is always driven in S mode?
2 Answers
Driving an automatic transmission car in S mode all the time will not cause damage to the car, but it will increase fuel consumption and raise the engine temperature. S mode refers to the sport mode of the car. After activating sport mode, the transmission can still shift automatically, but the shifting timing is delayed, keeping the engine at higher RPMs for a longer period. The transmission will downshift, allowing the car to gain greater torque and faster acceleration. S mode is typically used when climbing hills or overtaking. Since S mode only delays the upshifting of the transmission without altering other operational aspects, using it will increase the transmission's load and temperature in the short term, leading to some degree of wear on internal components.
As an experienced driver, I can say that constantly using the S mode is really not reliable. It feels like the car accelerates faster and drives more excitingly, and I tried it for a few weeks, but the result was a significant increase in fuel consumption—normally two tanks of gas a month turned into three, and the fuel expenses became a headache. It’s not just about saving money; the engine noise was also buzzing, and when I stopped to check, I found some signs of wear on the transmission. I consulted a mechanic, and he said that sport mode keeps the engine at high RPMs continuously, causing greater friction between parts, and the transmission could also overheat, which might shorten the car’s lifespan if used long-term. Later, I switched back to D mode, which is smoother and more worry-free—fuel costs dropped, and the car’s condition improved. My advice is not to chase short-term thrills; just switch to S mode occasionally for mountain roads or overtaking. Developing good driving habits benefits both the car and the driver.
