Have you ever looked at the letters and numbers in your car and wondered what they all meant? In this blog post, All-Star Honda will go over the meanings of letters and numbers on auto transmission cars. This information can be helpful when buying a used car or trying to diagnose a problem with your vehicle.
Meaning of Letters and numbers on auto transmission cars
P-Park: The P gear is the first gear on the automatic gearbox! The P gear serves as parking gear. For long-term parking, switch to this gear, but not while stopping briefly, such as while at a stop sign.
R-Reverse: The R gear is used when you need to back up! You’ll likely see this gear used a lot, especially if you often have to parallel park. However, you must confirm the car’s stability before putting it in R gear.
N-Neutral: The N gear is what it sounds like, a neutral gear. The car’s engine will be disconnected from the wheels when in this gear. You’ll likely use this gear when stopping and starting the car.
D-Drive: The D gear is used while driving. It stands for drive, and it’s what you’ll use when you’re cruising down the streets or highways.
L-Low: The L gear is used when you need to drive at a low speed. This gear is often used when driving on steep inclines or in stop-and-go traffic.
S-Sport: The S gear is the sport mode on your car. When in this gear, the car will have more power and will be able to accelerate faster.
Letters indicating different types of transmission:
A-Automatic: Automatic transmission will automatically shift the gears for you.
M-Manual: With a manual transmission, you’ll be in control of shifting the gears yourself! This transmission type is less common now but still used in some cars.
What do automatic cars’ D1, D2, and D3 gears signify?
D1, D2, and D3 gears are used when you don’t want to apply the brake, such as when going downhill or approaching red lights.
Use D1 when a strong gear is needed to get your automobile out of rugged terrains, such as mud or sand.
Use D2 gear each time your automobile moves uphill on an elevation, like a mountainous road. Downshift to D2 to receive a fast surge in engine power, just like on manual transmissions.
Use D3 gear when trying to overtake your car at a low rpm; D3 will rev your car, which significantly increases engine power and helps you overtake effectively. Some vehicles don’t have it, but you can use the OD button instead.
Now that you know the meanings of letters and numbers on auto transmission cars, you can be a more informed driver! Be sure to maintain your automatic transmission.
All-Star Honda, serving South Milwaukee, WI, has a massive inventory of new and used cars. Visit us today to buy your next vehicle or have your existing vehicle serviced or repaired.
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