What Do the Toyota Gear Shift Symbols Mean?

What do the gear shift symbols mean on your Toyota? While most drivers recognize P, R, N, and D, modern vehicles often include additional settings designed to improve performance and control. Understanding these gear shift symbols can help you drive more efficiently, whether you’re navigating stop-and-go traffic or cruising on the highway.

Here’s a quick breakdown of these gear shift symbols and when to use them.

Common Toyota Gear Shift Symbols

Let’s start with the basics. Here’s what the most common gear shift symbols mean:

P: Park

This engages the parking mechanism to lock the transmission and prevent the vehicle from rolling. Always shift into P when turning off your car, even on level ground, to keep it secure. Keep your foot on the brake when switching gears to avoid unintended movement.

R: Reverse

R activates the reverse gear, allowing you to back up safely. Before shifting into R, check your surroundings, use your Toyota’s backup camera for added visibility, and keep your foot on the brake to maintain control.

N: Neutral

This mode disconnects the engine from the wheels, allowing the car to move freely, which is useful when towing your vehicle or during extended idling situations, such as waiting in a car wash, without needing to hold the brake pedal.

D: Drive

Automatically shifts through gears to provide smooth acceleration and fuel efficiency. This is the default setting for everyday driving, whether you’re commuting through city streets or cruising on the highway.

Additional Gear Shift Symbols in Toyota Models

Toyota models offer additional gear shift settings beyond the standard P, R, N, and D, giving you more control in specific driving situations. These modes can optimize performance, improve engine braking, and enhance efficiency in hybrid models. 

So, with that in mind, here’s what they do and when to use them:

S: Sport Mode

Found in many Toyota models, S mode gives you more control over shifting, providing a sportier driving feel. This is great for highway merging or spirited driving.

L: Low Gear

This setting limits gear shifting and keeps the car in lower gear. Use L when driving down steep hills or towing heavy loads for better engine braking.

B: Engine Braking 

Toyota hybrids, like the Prius and RAV4 Hybrid, feature a B mode that increases regenerative braking, helping recharge the battery while slowing the car.

EV: Electric Vehicle Mode

Exclusive to Toyota hybrids, EV mode allows short-distance driving on battery power alone, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

Explore Toyota’s Latest Models at SpringHill Toyota

Understanding your gear shift options helps you get the most out of your Toyota’s performance and efficiency. At SpringHill Toyota in Mobile, AL, our team is here to guide you through these features, answer your questions, and match you with the right model. 

We proudly serve drivers in Mobile, Daphne, and Birmingham, offering expert advice and a wide selection of new Toyota vehicles. Visit us for a test drive and experience these advanced driving modes firsthand!