What is the operation method for shifting gears in the Encore?
3 Answers
The operation method for shifting gears in the Encore is: 1. Shift into P (Park), which is the parking gear; 2. R (Reverse) is used for reversing; 3. N (Neutral) cuts off the engine power connection to the vehicle; 4. D (Drive) is the automatic gear, pay attention to controlling the throttle and brake; 5. L (Low) is the low-speed gear, which can be used when climbing slopes. The Encore is a compact 5-door, 5-seat SUV with body dimensions of: length 4295mm, width 1798mm, height 1616mm, and a wheelbase of 2570mm. The Encore is equipped with a 1.3T turbocharged engine with a maximum power of 121kW and a maximum torque of 240Nm.
When driving my Buick Encore, the gear shifting operation is very intuitive. After getting in the car, first press the brake pedal to ensure the vehicle is stationary, then start the engine. At this point, simply move the gear lever from P (Park) to D (Drive) or R (Reverse). When driving on flat roads, I mostly use D and N (Neutral) gears. For example, during traffic jams, I temporarily shift to N to give the engine a rest, but avoid prolonged coasting in neutral as it wastes fuel and is unsafe. When parking, remember to engage the handbrake firmly and shift to P to lock the gear lever. I find the Encore's electronic shifting system responsive and easy to operate, but if shifting feels difficult, it might be due to insufficient brake pressure or a stuck gear lever—just check the brake lights and wiring. Regular vehicle maintenance, such as checking transmission fluid, can prevent shifting issues and ensure smoother driving.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I find the gear shift design of the Encore quite convenient. You must fully depress the brake pedal before starting the engine, otherwise the gear lever won't move freely from P to other positions. During driving, I mostly use D (Drive) mode, occasionally switching to S (Sport) mode for overtaking - it delivers stronger acceleration but consumes more fuel. One important tip: never shift to P (Park) while the vehicle is still moving, as this can damage the transmission. I learned this the hard way when a misoperation almost jammed the gear system. Now I've developed a habit: come to complete stop → engage parking brake → shift to P. The Encore's electronic gear shift system has foolproof features, like preventing gear changes without brake pedal engagement, which is thoughtful. There's also a gear position indicator light beside the lever - if it's hard to see, adding a small sticker can serve as a reminder. Regular transmission fluid checks help maintain smooth gear shifting.
