What is the meaning of Prndsl in Honda?
PRNDSL are the gear selector indications found on many Honda automatic transmissions. They stand for Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, Sport, and Low, guiding drivers on which transmission range is engaged. This article explains what each letter means, how it’s used, and how it varies across models.
What PRNDSL stands for and how it works
The letters on the gear lever correspond to specific transmission ranges. The following details explain each position and typical use cases.
- P — Park: Locks the transmission and typically engages a parking brake mechanism to prevent the car from moving when parked. Use when the vehicle is stationary and you want to leave the car, such as at a curb or in a parking space.
- R — Reverse: Enables the car to move backward. Use when backing out of a parking spot or reversing a short distance.
- N — Neutral: Disconnects the engine from the wheels. Useful for towing, push-start scenarios, or when the car must roll freely without engine power; not intended for moving the car under power.
- D — Drive: Normal forward driving. The transmission automatically shifts through gears to optimize efficiency and performance as you accelerate and speed up.
- S — Sport: Sport or sport-style mode in many Hondas. Holds gears longer, sharpens throttle response, and can alter shift logic for quicker acceleration or a more responsive feel. Not always more fuel-efficient; typically used for spirited driving or merging in traffic.
- L — Low: Low gear for greater engine braking and torque at low speeds. Useful on steep descents, slippery surfaces, or when extra engine braking is desired; can also help when towing or climbing steep grades. Driving in L at highway speeds is generally not recommended due to higher engine RPM.
Note: Some Honda models or trims may omit the L or S position, or may label sport/towing modes differently. The exact behavior can vary by model year and transmission type (traditional automatic vs. CVT). Always consult your owner’s manual for your specific vehicle.
How to use PRNDSL in everyday driving
Understanding when and how to use each position can improve safety, control, and efficiency. Here are practical guidelines that apply to typical Honda automatics.
- P is for parking: When you reach your destination, shift to P, apply the parking brake, and turn off the engine. Ensure the car is completely stopped before selecting P.
- R is for backing up: Shift to R only when the car is at a complete stop or moving very slowly in reverse, and always check surroundings before backing up.
- N is for idling or towing: Use N if you need to push the car or when the engine should be disconnected from the wheels for maintenance or towing.
- D is for normal driving: Use D for everyday driving. The transmission will automatically select gears appropriate to speed, load, and throttle input.
- S is for Sport mode: Engage S when you want quicker throttle response or a more aggressive feel, such as merging or passing. Expect higher revs and different shift points; return to D for normal efficiency.
- L is for Low gear: Use L on steep hills, long descents, or when extra engine braking is beneficial. Avoid using L at highway speeds, as it keeps RPM high and reduces fuel economy.
In practice, most daily driving remains in D, with S or L selected only as the driving situation calls for them. Some hybrids or CVT-equipped models may implement S/L differently, so always reference your vehicle's manual for exact behavior.
Notes and caveats
While the PRNDSL layout is common in many Honda models, there are exceptions. Some models offer S as a separate Sport or Sequential mode, while others may present a simplified PRNDL without an explicit L. In hybrids or CVT-equipped cars, the “gearing” feel of S and L can differ from traditional automatics. If you’re unsure about how your specific model handles these positions, check the owner's manual or contact a Honda dealer for model-year-specific guidance.
Summary
PRNDSL maps to six transmission positions: Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, Sport, and Low. Park locks the vehicle, Reverse backs up, Neutral disengages the drivetrain, Drive is for normal forward driving, Sport enhances responsiveness, and Low increases engine braking and torque at low speeds. Use each position according to driving conditions, and consult your vehicle’s manual for any model-specific differences.
