What is the button on the left side of the gear shift in the Classic Sylphy?
3 Answers
The small button on the left side of the gear shift in the Sylphy is the gear shift lock. It allows the gear to be locked in any position (except P, R, and N) in an automatic transmission car. The gear shift lock button can adjust the optimal driving state according to different road conditions, effectively preventing frequent gear shifts on uneven roads and serving as a forced downshift during overtaking. The gear shift lock is a derivative function of electronic parking. This feature effectively prevents the vehicle from rolling when parked on a slope, in traffic jams, or at traffic lights. Once activated, the vehicle can come to a complete stop by simply pressing the brake without requiring additional operations. To move forward, simply press the accelerator, making it a highly practical feature. When the gear shift lock button is pressed in D mode, the transmission will maintain second, third, or fourth gear (primarily fourth gear). Pressing the button in 3 mode will keep the transmission in second or third gear (primarily third gear). In 2 mode, pressing the button will lock the transmission in second gear, while in 1 mode, it will remain in fixed first gear. Using this button does not cause any damage to the transmission.
I've been driving a Nissan Sylphy for nearly ten years, and people often ask me about the button on the left side of the gear shift. It's the Overdrive Off button, marked as O/D OFF. When you press it, the transmission locks into lower gears and doesn't shift into the highest gear. This is particularly useful for overtaking or climbing hills, as it makes the car feel more powerful during acceleration. Once, while driving on a mountain road, I forgot to press this button and struggled uphill. After pressing it, the climb became much easier. In city driving, you can try using it in heavy traffic to avoid frequent gear shifts. However, overuse can affect fuel efficiency, so I only use it when necessary. New drivers might find it confusing, but checking the user manual will clarify things—the Sylphy's design is quite user-friendly.
As a car enthusiast, I'm very familiar with the details of the Sylphy. That button is the O/D OFF, known in Chinese as the overdrive off switch. Pressing it keeps the transmission in gears 1-3, preventing upshifts to overdrive. This enhances performance in scenarios requiring high torque, such as towing or steep slopes. Having studied many cars, I've noticed similar buttons exist on the Toyota Corolla, but the Sylphy's layout is more ergonomic. Just remember not to overuse it in practice to avoid engine overload—using it at the right moments can safely enhance driving pleasure. If you're curious about how it works, think of it as a temporary gear lock function; a simple press activates it, making operation truly convenient.
