Which Gear is Reverse in an Automatic Car?

[LeIsabela]

In an automatic car, the R gear stands for Reverse. The letters P, R, N, D, S, and L on the car's gear shift represent the following meanings: 1. The "P" on the gear shift is the abbreviation for Parking, which is the parking gear. Engaging this gear allows the vehicle's auxiliary braking device to achieve parking. Remember, it's best to shift into P gear after parking to prevent excessive wear on the transmission. 2. The "R" on the gear shift is the abbreviation for Reverse, which is the reverse gear. When the vehicle needs to reverse, only by engaging this gear can the vehicle move backward. However, make sure the vehicle is completely stopped before shifting into R gear. 3. The "N" on the gear shift is the abbreviation for Neutral, which is the neutral gear. When the vehicle is in neutral, it disconnects the power system between the engine and the transmission. It is not recommended to coast in neutral when going downhill, as it can pose safety risks. 4. The "D" on the gear shift is the abbreviation for Drive, which is the forward gear. This gear is undoubtedly the most frequently used, especially in automatic cars. Many drivers prefer the "D gear for all" driving mode. 5. The "S" on the gear shift is the abbreviation for Sport, which is the sport gear. This gear is often used when going uphill to provide extra power, but it increases fuel consumption. 6. The "L" on the gear shift is the abbreviation for Low, which is the low gear. This gear is mainly used when going downhill or on long slopes, keeping the gear in the lowest position to utilize engine braking for safer descent.

[StEmilio]

When I first learned to drive, I was particularly nervous about the gears of an automatic transmission car, and most concerned about which one was the reverse gear. The reverse gear is the position marked 'R' on the gear shift, usually in the sequence P-R-N-D, where R stands for reverse, meaning the reverse gear. When operating, you must first press the brake pedal firmly before shifting to R, otherwise the gear lever won't move. This safety design prevents misoperation. For example, when I drive a Volkswagen, the gear shift is on the center console, with R between P and N; after shifting to R, the dashboard will display a reverse icon. Besides the reverse gear, it's also important to know that P is the parking gear, N is the neutral gear, and D is the drive gear. When reversing, remember to check the rearview and side mirrors. Nowadays, many cars come with built-in rearview cameras or radar, beeping to alert you of distance, which helps me avoid scratches. If you're a beginner, practice slow reversing more, and you won't panic once you're familiar with it.

[XavierRose]

From the perspective of transmission system design, the reverse gear position in automatic transmission vehicles is always marked with an 'R' in the common P-R-N-D sequence. I've observed gear shifters in different car models, such as the Toyota Camry, where R is positioned between P and N, requiring the brake pedal to be pressed to release the locking mechanism before engaging; BMW might use electronic buttons, but the position indicator still shows R. The working principle of the reverse gear involves the transmission switching the rotation direction of the gears to move the car backward. Engineers standardized this layout to minimize the risk of errors, hence the necessity to press the brake before shifting into R. Differences in vehicle types, such as electric cars being more sensitive to acceleration, require extra caution in speed control when reversing. I recommend drivers always glance at the dashboard or the letters on the shifter before shifting to confirm the current gear and avoid accidents.

[EmeryLynn]

Safe driving is crucial, and incorrect engagement of the reverse gear can lead to serious accidents. In automatic transmission vehicles, the reverse gear is marked as 'R' on the gear lever. Before operating, ensure the vehicle is completely stopped and firmly press the brake pedal before shifting to R; engaging it incorrectly can cause the car to suddenly reverse, potentially hitting pedestrians or obstacles. After experiencing several close calls, I developed the habit of carefully checking the gear sequence P-R-N-D before shifting, with R typically marked in red or bold font for clarity. When reversing, use the rearview mirror in conjunction; modern vehicle cameras can display a real-time rear view, aiding in more precise maneuvering. Maintain a slow speed and avoid sharp turns. Regularly maintain the transmission system to ensure the gear lever is well-lubricated and operates smoothly, reducing risks.

[Tammy]

Reflecting on over a decade of driving, the reverse gear in automatic transmissions has always been marked as 'R', though with minor variations across different vehicles. My first car, a Ford Focus, had its gear lever positioned centrally with a clear P-R-N-D sequence—just shift to R while pressing the brake. Now driving a Tesla, I use the touchscreen for gear selection, yet still instinctively locate the R position. Key operational tips: when shifting to R, the car may slightly vibrate with dashboard indicator lights; beginners are advised to gently test acceleration to gauge speed after shifting. For reversing angles, I prefer straightening the steering wheel first, then backing out slowly while relying on rear radar beeps for obstacle alerts. With practice, it becomes second nature—don’t fear mistakes, but stay focused.