Which is better for around town driving
(50 mph or less): D5 or D4?

Since both D4 and D5 are overdrives it seems like D4 would be better for around town?

 

Doesn't make any difference in city traffic, I use D4 on curved rural roads.

 

Correct me if I am wrong, but wouldn't D5 be more fuel efficient than D4? I was wondering if there will be any noticeable difference since both are overdrive gears.

 

There should be...just look at the drive ratios.

------------------
2002 3.2 TL Type S with Navigation
Exterior: Aegean Blue Pearl
At 3% over invoice, who can complain?

 

While both 4th and 5th gears are overdrive (numerically lower than 1.00:1), 5th gear is taller and will therefore provide better economy.

As for the other question... I just leave mine in D5 and let the TCM do all the thinking. It won't upshift to 5th unless you're going fast enough not to lug the engine (around 50MPH on my 2000).

------------------
2000 WDP 3.2TL non-NAV
AEM CAI w/bypass, Comptech header

 

I think D5 would be correct. If you put it into D4, you can drive and have more power due to the compression, but the last thing you need is worse fuel economy given that it is already not awesome.

You live in AZ I see...maybe we can get together and talk cars. Later.

 

I always leave mine in D5 and let the car do the thinking. I do notice however sometimes if you drive constantly at around 45 mph, the transmission shifts a lot between 4 and 5. Maybe by leaving it in D4 it will prevent this gear searching condition.

------------------
2002 TL-S Aegean blue

 

Why don't you just put it on 2nd gear?

 

Slap it into SS and drive in the gear of your choice.

------------------
Y2K SiLVeR TL, non-navi
SLVR TL Homepage Last updated 6/9/01

 

Ditto AcuraBoy.
I use D4 around town to prevent the hunting between 4th and 5th. I know I'm taking a hit at the gas pump, but it just feels smoother this way.

------------------
2002 TL-S Black/Parch

 

When you guys stop at a light or in traffic, do you have a habit of just stepping on the brake and let the tranny still engage in drive gear? My father has a habit of shifting to N when he's waiting for lights, like stick shift. This is my first automatic, I am little worry about leaving it in drive. Cuz it feels like I am making the car to stay while the car wants to go. I know the torque converter is taking care of that, but for long term, won't it mess up anything? Any mechanics out there? Anyone?