What is Low Gear in a Car?

What is low gear in a car and when should you use it? Many Martinsville drivers ask about this underused function, and Gunter CDJR Martinsville is here to help. Find out when to use low gear for the best possible performance, and take your driving to the next level.

How to Find Low Gear

So, what is low gear in a car and how do I access it in the first place? Whether you have a manual or automatic transmission on your vehicle, you have a low gear – also known as “first gear.” Low gear restricts the amount of fuel that is injected into the engine, which reduces engine speed while increasing torque. Downshifting to low gear can be a huge help on the Danville roads in the right circumstances, but many drivers don’t know it’s an option at all.

When to Use Low Gear

Learning when to use low gear can help you during particularly tough and strenuous drives. Even if you use an automatic transmission, you can shift into low gear manually. Try it out in the following conditions.

• Towing: When towing something heavy, like a boat or a trailer, low gear will boost your torque for smoother sailing. Be sure to read your owner’s manual for any speed limitations while using your low gear.
• Steep Inclines: If you’re climbing a very steep hill, low gear will give you the extra power to make the climb without stressing the engine.
• Long Declines: Similarly, if you are driving down a long hill, shifting to a low gear can help you continue on the path slow and steady without damaging your brakes or transmission.

Off-road adventurers who travel over rough terrain will pick up when to use low gear easily. While you might not use it as frequently on your Reidsville, NC errands, it’s still great to learn what is low gear in a car in case you need it in the future.

Find Out More with Gunter CDJR Martinsville

Still have questions on when to use low gear? Want to know how to keep your car in great shape during those heavy towing sessions? Gunter CDJR Martinsville is here for all of your automotive concerns, so don’t hesitate to contact us for more information. You can also schedule a service appointment online for your next transmission check, oil change, or anything else you need to stay sharp on the Ridgeway roads.