Which gear is generally used for city driving?
2 Answers
For city driving, you can generally use 3rd gear or 2nd gear. Precautions for gear shifting while driving: During normal driving, an automatic transmission will automatically switch between several forward gears without requiring additional manual operation. Unnecessarily shifting between gears constantly will shorten the transmission's lifespan. Function of gear limit: Most automatic vehicles are equipped with "gear limits" such as 1, 2, 3, 4, etc. Their function is to restrict the automatic transmission's shifting timing to allow the engine speed to continuously increase, which is beneficial for the output of engine power and torque.
I've been driving in the city for over twenty years. The road conditions in urban areas are highly variable, with speeds typically ranging from 30 to 50 kilometers per hour, so I most often use 2nd or 3rd gear. Starting in 2nd gear provides quick acceleration, making it handy for traffic lights and congestion; when the speed increases slightly, say approaching 40 km/h, shifting to 3rd gear keeps the engine running smoothly and saves fuel. I remember once during rush hour, I recklessly used 4th gear, and the car shook violently with fuel consumption skyrocketing—since then, I've been more cautious. From a safety perspective: lower gears allow faster acceleration, making it easier to handle sudden situations like pedestrians crossing; in the long run, it reduces wear on the clutch and engine. Beginners might shift to higher gears indiscriminately—I recommend keeping an eye on the tachometer to stay within the 1500 to 2500 RPM range. During traffic jams, I try to stick to one gear to avoid frequent shifting, making driving more relaxed and economical.
