What is the explanation of automatic transmission gear positions?
2 Answers
"Automatic transmission vehicles typically have 6-7 gear positions, namely D (Drive), P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), S (Sport), and L (Low), while M (Manual) is unique to semi-automatic transmission models and not available in every automatic car. The functions of each gear position are as follows: D - Drive, P - Park, R - Reverse, N - Neutral, S - Sport, L - Low, and M - Manual mode. D - Drive: The most commonly used gear position. Gear shifting is controlled by the accelerator pedal. D1 (or L), D2, and D3 correspond to manual transmission gears 1 and 2, 3 and 4, and 5 and 6, respectively. L - Low: When driving downhill, shifting to low gear reduces the need for braking. When driving uphill, low gear provides more power for climbing. R - Reverse: This gear can only be engaged when the vehicle is completely stopped. Models with a lock button require pressing the button to switch to this gear. N - Neutral: Used for temporary stops, such as at traffic lights, and should be used in conjunction with the handbrake. This gear is prohibited when going downhill. S - Sport: The difference between D and S gears lies in the computer switching to different shifting programs. Therefore, S gear can be switched to at any time without causing damage to the transmission. It is suitable for overtaking but not recommended for high-speed driving. M - Manual mode: Unique to semi-automatic transmission models, it allows the driver to enjoy the fun of manual shifting. The "+" sign indicates upshifting, while the "-" sign indicates downshifting. P - Park: Currently, some models have an independent P gear, known as electronic parking, which operates on the same principle."
I've been driving automatic transmission for ten years, and the gear positions are actually much simpler than manual. P (Park) is for parking—always remember to engage the handbrake. R (Reverse) is for backing up; keep your eyes glued to the rearview mirror. N (Neutral) saves a bit of fuel at red lights, but never use it on slopes to avoid rolling. D (Drive) is the most frequently used, making stop-and-go traffic a breeze. For steep climbs or long descents, switch to L (Low) or S (Sport) mode to let the engine assist with speed control. A handy tip: avoid constantly shifting to P during temporary stops—if rear-ended, it could wreck the transmission. Instead, use N with the handbrake for safety. New drivers will find it intuitive after a few practices; the biggest perk of automatic is freeing your left foot entirely.
