How does the "S" mode work in automatics?

Because alien lives matter…

 

I just looked and my truck has the S mode but I never used it. I might see how it works and get back to you. It could be like paddle shifters.

 

I love Friday Threads on TW...

 

To add something new...
Engine braking is achieved in S1-S4 through modulated partial application of the C1 clutch. Whereas in D, it is a modulated release of C1 during off-throttle freewheel.

 

Actually it isn't complex at all. It's just that so many people can't grasp that it is simply a gear limiter, not manual shifter for an automatic.

By default I select S4 when putting the truck in gear, this prevents shifting into 6th gear in town at 35 mph. If (when) I leave city speed limits a simple push forward on the shifter bumps the trans to S5, which is where I leave it unless I'm going to be driving above 65mph for a while, this prevents the 5-6-5-6-5-6.

If I will be driving above 65-70 for more than a couple of miles I select S6. Why not just "D"? Leaving it in S mode allows me to pull the shifter back to S5 or S4 as needed, like when merging onto the interstate two quick tugs rearward on the shifter selects S4 and accelerating. Flip the blinker on, merge into traffic push to S5, once settled in the lane of choice push forward to S6, then set cruise.

It sounds more involved than the actual operation, yeah it's a little odd compared to some other auto trans, but I prefer the overall operation compared to other autos.

 

So when in S mode does the ECT not matter anymore?

 

ECT has a much bigger impact on shift points than being in S mode. To me, I don’t notice a difference in shift points when in S mode vs just drive…I mean other than it limiting you on your top gear selected. ECT keeps you in each gear a lot longer.

 

Bingo, just a fancy way to downshift an automatic.

 

Upshift in S is not a "real-time" shifting
In lower gears 1-2-3 and low to medium loads, the tranny will upshift almost instantaneous and feels like the driver controls the upshift.
But in 4th, under heavy load and high speed, the upshift to 5th won't happen till some parameters are met (torque, load, speed)
I have a few tunes where upshift in S to 5th is almost instantaneous under above conditions, but there are some that won't respond to upshift for a few seconds at the same conditions.
Only difference between tunes is throttle availability and other throttle settings.

 

From the ECU tables: S mode has 1 torque profile table , D mode -14 or so tables.
Plus ABS/ VSC control modules interact with throttle and tranny.
It won't adapt, you will adapt.

 

Next time you guys are on the freeway and want to really feel the full power and potential of your truck try shifting into “R” for race mode.

 

You mean neutral?

 

I though the "N" mode stood for "Nitroboost"...

 

For someone who is mechanically challenged like me, I had no idea what this guy was talking about -- locking what torque converter what? So I went to my favorite resource on automotive education and picked up this video first, and now I think I'm prepared for the one you posted:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXgSttKLsHs

 

ECT makes more engine noise, and uses fuel like a v8. Imo, its for towing anything over 3k lbs.

 

The above quote may be an example of subtle trolling. A wry commentary on the idiocy of people not being able to grasp the simple concept of a gear limiter. If so, bravo…well done.

If not…..Lord help us all.

 

Correct. Shift into Nitroboost mode, pin the accelerator pedal, then shift into Race mode when the tach redlines.

 

Our Corolla has a CVT and paddle shifters. I think it is things like this that confuse the young-uns on how things work.

 

Come'on man, its only a lowly tacoma truck.