When to Use S Gear?
3 Answers
Use S gear when overtaking or climbing hills. S gear is the sport mode of a car. When S gear is engaged, the engine speed is maintained in a higher range, providing greater torque output and acceleration, with power readily available on demand. The specific steps for using S gear in an automatic transmission are as follows: 1. Press the car's brake pedal to prepare for starting the engine; 2. Press the car's one-touch start button; 3. All dashboard lights will illuminate, indicating the engine has started. Then, shift the car's automatic gear lever to the S position to enter overtaking mode; 4. Press the accelerator pedal to easily overtake or climb hills. Although S gear offers robust power, it consumes more fuel and places greater load on the transmission and engine, so it should not be used frequently.
I usually only use the S mode on specific occasions, such as when driving up steep slopes. Once during a self-drive trip in the mountains, I encountered continuous uphill sections. Switching to S mode gave the car plenty of power, unlike the sluggishness in D mode. The engine revs higher, gear shifts are delayed a bit, and the response is much quicker. When overtaking, a quick press on the accelerator sends the car forward smoothly. However, I don’t use it for daily commuting—it consumes much more fuel and causes greater wear on the car, so it’s better to save it. I think beginners should first get familiar with D mode and try S mode when they need some extra vigor, but I don’t recommend keeping it on all the time unless they want to experience the thrill of driving.
I love using the S gear on open highways or winding roads to feel that acceleration and the push-back sensation. The sport mode keeps the engine RPM higher, delays gear shifts, and makes the throttle response more sensitive, making the drive incredibly thrilling. For example, on weekend mountain runs or racing sections, shifting gears turns the car into an absolute beast, doubling the fun. However, it does consume more fuel, and the engine can overheat easily, so it's best to use it in moderation—don't overdo it. Remember, safety comes first—braking distance doesn't increase in S gear, but the rapid acceleration might lead to loss of control, so it's best used only when you're fully alert.
