Buckle up, car enthusiasts, because we’re diving into the world of the Honda Civic’s transmission system. Yes, I’m going to explore one of its most talked-about features – the L gear.
You may have seen it on the gear shift of your Civic or heard someone mention it. However, if you’re wondering what the L gear in the honda civic is and how it works, then you are welcome.
The L gear in the Honda Civic is a lower gear setting. It limits the car’s shift range, resulting in higher RPMs and increased engine braking. You will find this gear helpful in certain driving conditions, such as steep hills or towing heavy loads.
However, today I’ll break down everything you need to know about the L gear in a Honda Civic. So sit tight and get ready to rev your engines.
What is the L Gear in Honda Civic?
The L gear in the Honda Civic refers to the low gear mode that is available in some models of cars. This particular gear system is designed to provide increased torque and better acceleration at low speeds, such as when driving in heavy traffic or up steep hills.
When you engage the L gear in your Honda Civic, it instructs the car’s transmission to limit its gears, allowing it to stay in lower gear for longer. This results in the engine revving higher and the car accelerating faster but at the cost of fuel efficiency.
The L gear is particularly useful in situations where you need to maintain a slow and steady speed, such as when driving in snowy or icy conditions or when driving on steep inclines. It can also be helpful when towing a trailer or carrying a heavy load.
So, in general, the L gear is a useful feature in the Honda Civic, as it allows you to have more control over the car’s performance in specific situations. However, it is optional for everyday driving and should be used only when required.
What is the S Gear in Honda Civic
The “S” gear in the Honda Civic refers to the Sport mode, which is a feature that allows the driver to get a more engaging and responsive driving experience.
When the Sport mode is engaged, the Civic’s transmission shifts at higher RPMs, providing more aggressive acceleration and better throttle response. This results in a more exciting driving experience, particularly when driving on twisty roads or accelerating out of corners.
The S gear is typically found on cars with automatic transmissions and is designed to give drivers more control over their vehicle’s performance. It allows drivers to shift gears manually, similar to a manual transmission, but without the need for a clutch pedal. This is achieved using paddle shifters or a shift lever.
Overall, the S gear or Sport mode in the Honda Civic enhances the driving experience by providing a more dynamic and engaging drive.
Also Read: What is D3 on a Honda Civic?
What Do The S and L Gears Do in Honda Civic?
The S and L modes are designed to give the driver more control over the vehicle’s performance in different driving conditions. Let’s talk about the mechanisms of action of both S and L gears.
a) Mechanisms of S Gears in Honda Civic:
The S gear or Sport mode is primarily intended for driving on twisty roads or highways requiring quick acceleration and agility. In this mode, the transmission shifts at higher RPMs, providing more aggressive acceleration and better throttle response.
This results in a more exciting driving experience, with more precise control over the vehicle’s acceleration and handling. A button activates Sport mode on the center console or the shift lever.
b) Mechanisms of L Gears in Honda Civic:
On the other hand, the L gear or Low mode is intended for use when driving downhill or towing a heavy load. In this mode, the transmission is set to shift at lower RPMs, providing more engine braking and control over the vehicle’s speed.
This can be useful when descending steep hills or towing a trailer. You will find this option useful due to the following two reasons:
- Firstly, it reduces the need for constant braking
- Secondly, it helps maintain a safe and stable speed.
The low mode is typically activated by shifting the gear lever to the L position.
My Opinion (S vs L Gear): Both the S and L gears are designed to enhance the driving experience and provide more control over the vehicle’s performance in different situations. The Sport mode focuses more on performance, while the Low mode focuses more on control and stability.
By using these modes appropriately, drivers can get the most out of their Honda Civic and enjoy a more dynamic and engaging driving experience.
Special Note: It’s worth noting that while these modes can enhance performance and control, they should always be used responsibly. Also, it is requested to obey local traffic laws and regulations.
| Gear | Top Speed |
| S | Top Speed Civic (137 MPH) |
| L | 10 to 15 MPH |
How and When To Use S Gear in Honda Civic
You should use the “S” gear when you want a more spirited driving experience or when driving conditions require more power or acceleration. For example, use Sport mode when merging onto a highway or when driving on steep hills.
To engage Sport mode in a Honda Civic, you typically need to move the shift lever from the “D” position to the “S” position.
The location of the “S” position can vary depending on the model and year of your Civic. So it’s important to consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
It’s important to note that using Sport mode can impact fuel economy and cause the engine to rev higher than usual.
As a result, you should use Sport mode judiciously and switch back to the standard “D” mode when you no longer need the extra power or acceleration.
Advantages and Disadvantages of using S gear
Advantages
- Increased responsiveness: Sport mode can provide a more engaging driving experience by increasing throttle response and acceleration.
- Better handling: By altering the transmission shift points, Sport mode can also improve the car’s handling and make it feel more responsive to driver inputs.
- Improved performance: Sport mode can also improve the car’s overall performance by allowing the engine to rev higher and generate more power.
Disadvantages
- Reduced fuel economy: Because Sport mode causes the engine to rev higher and work harder, it can reduce the car’s fuel economy.
- Increased wear and tear: The increased strain on the engine and transmission caused by Sport mode can also lead to increased wear and tear on these components over time.
- Higher noise levels: The higher engine speeds associated with Sport mode can also result in increased engine and exhaust noise, which may be undesirable for some drivers.
Ultimately, whether or not to use Sport mode in a Honda Civic depends on the driving conditions and the driver’s preferences.
It can be useful for certain situations. However, it should be used judiciously to avoid unnecessary wear and tear on the car. Thus, you can maximize fuel economy.
How and When to Use L Gear in Honda Civic
You should use the “L” gear when you need more control over your vehicle’s speed, such as when driving downhill or on the road with many curves.
It’s also helpful when driving in slippery conditions, such as when driving on snow or ice.
To engage the “L” gear, shift the gear selector into the “L” position. Depending on the model, you may need to shift the gear selector down twice to reach the “L” position.
It’s important to note that you should not always drive your Honda Civic in “L” gear. Why? Because this can cause unnecessary wear and tear on the engine and transmission. The “L” gear should only be used when needed, such as when driving in challenging road conditions.
Advantages and Disadvantages of using L gear
Advantages
- Improved engine braking: When you use the L gear, the transmission downshifts to a lower gear, which can provide more engine braking. This means that when you take your foot off the gas, the car will slow down faster than it would in a higher gear.
- Increased torque: The L gear can also provide more torque, which can be useful when driving up a steep hill or when towing a heavy load.
- Better traction: Using the L gear can also provide better traction in slippery conditions, such as when driving on snow or ice.
Disadvantages
- Increased engine wear: Using the L gear can cause your engine to rev higher, which can increase wear and tear on the engine over time.
- Limited speed: The L gear is designed for low speeds and is not meant to be used at high speeds. If you try to use the L gear at high speeds, it can cause damage to the transmission.
It’s important to use the L gear only when necessary and to switch back to a higher gear as soon as possible to avoid potential damage to your car.
What Are The Different Tasks For Which L Gear Can Be Used?
Here are some of the specific tasks for which the L gear can be used:
- Towing: When towing a heavy load, the L gear can help provide the necessary power and torque to get the load moving and maintain control while driving.
- Off-Roading: Off-road driving can require slow speeds and precise control, particularly when navigating obstacles such as rocks, mud, or steep inclines. The L gear can help provide the necessary power and control for these situations.
- Steep Inclines: When driving up or down steep hills, the L gear can help maintain a consistent speed and prevent the vehicle from rolling backward or forward.
- Heavy Traffic: In stop-and-go traffic, the L gear can help reduce the strain on the engine and transmission, making the driving experience smoother and more comfortable.
- Slippery Surfaces: When driving on ice, snow, or other slippery surfaces, the L gear can help prevent the wheels from spinning and provide better traction and control.
What is the difference between L and S gear in Honda Civic
Here are some of the differences between these two modes:
| Features | L Gear | S Gear |
| Meaning | Low Gear | Sports Gear |
| RPM | Keeps RPM Low | Keeps RPM High |
| Torque | Highest | Lowest |
| Throttle Response | Low | High |
| Fuel Efficiency | Higher | Lower |
| Driving Conditions | For Smooth, Flat Roads | For Challeging Condtions like a steep hill. |
| Shifting Points | At Lower RPM | At Higher RPM |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can You Shift From S to L or vice versa while driving?
Yes, you can shift from the “S” gear to the “L” gear or vice versa while driving. However, it’s important to note that shifting gears while driving can cause a sudden change in the engine’s speed and torque. This can affect the vehicle’s stability and control.
It’s best to shift gears when the vehicle is moving at a steady speed and not during abrupt acceleration or deceleration.
If you need help with when or how to use these gears, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a professional mechanic.
Does Driving in L Gear Save Fuel?
The L reduces the load and the pressure off of the engine, which means the fuel being injected into the engine is limited, so, yes, driving in L gear des saves fuel.
It is important to keep in mind that it only saves fuel in certain conditions, like driving in stop-and-go traffic. It will not save fuel if the L gear is being used like the D gear.