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Automotive glossary

Gear Lever (Gear Selector)

The gear lever is the control the driver uses to select gears in a manual car, or drive modes such as P, R, N and D in an automatic.

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What is Gear Lever (Gear Selector)?

Manual levers connect to the gearbox by cables or rods. Automatic selectors are often electronic buttons, dials or stalks. A shift lock stops leaving park without pressing the brake. Electronic selectors often switch to P automatically when the driver’s door opens.

How it works

The lever or selector sends a mechanical or electrical command to the gearbox.

Why it matters for your car

Do not rest your hand on a manual gear lever while driving. Always select P or engage the handbrake before leaving the car.

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