When to Use Low Gear
Knowing when to use low gear can be an important part of staying safe while driving. Low gear is used to help the driver maintain control of their car, as well as provide extra engine braking to reduce the amount of time needed to brake.
Automatic Transmissions
For drivers with an automatic transmission, low gear can be activated by moving the shift lever to the “L” or “1” position. This will cause the transmission to shift into the lowest available gear, giving the driver more control and allowing them to slow down more quickly.
Low gear should be used when:
- Driving on slippery or wet roads
- Driving in mountainous or hilly areas
- Driving in slow traffic
- When you need to drive more slowly than usual
Manual Transmissions
For drivers with a manual transmission, low gear is engaged by holding the clutch (while pushing the shift lever into the lowest gear). This will allow the vehicle to run at a lower RPM, letting the driver control the speed of the car better while also providing additional engine braking.
Low gear should be used when:
- Driving on slippery or wet roads
- Driving in mountainous or hilly areas
- Descending a steep hill
- When you need to drive more slowly than usual
Using low gear can help keep the driver and their passengers safe, but it is important to remember to shift back into a higher gear once the situation has been resolved. Improper use of low gear can cause excessive wear on the transmission and should be avoided while driving.