What do S and L mean on the autobox?

[artp8]

Ok - have had the bongo a few weeks now and loving it completely - however having never had an automatic before I was wondering what the S and L below the Drive gear selection are?

I was thinking these could be different drive options - i.e. S (sport mode/short mode) and L (Long?) giving short shifting and longer shiting options? Don't want to even try them without knowing what they are there for....

thanks

[dp bradford]

Not sure what S stands for, but in S the Bongo will set off in first gear and not shift above third; i.e. only uses first, second and third. Pressing the Hold button on the side of the gear selector will cause it to only use second.

In L (presumably standing for Low) the bongo only uses first and second gears. Pressing Hold locks it into first.

Pressing Hold in D makes the Bongo set off in second gear and not change up above third.

Useful to get stronger engine braking on steep downhill bits.

... sports mode indeed

Dave

[Linusface]

Don't try to use the S or L when travelling at higher speeds

They are for locking in lower gears.

I have a 4x4 and have never needed the S or L even on muddy hills while camping & towing, so they are for extreme situations only. (or just for playing with at low speeds )

[Harry]

I often put mine in S when in 30mph limits....otherwise you will do about 35-40 on tickover in D on the flat/downhill- saves using the brake to keep you speed down.

H

[Moondance_Scotland]

Just got a Bongo last week, amazing MPV / Camper
Ive been told that when u kick down fully in D ( drive) it gives you instant power, well it did!
and the S mode was SPORT ! not sure really, but Low was fab going down steep gradients,
someone tell me im nearly correct

John
Scotland

ps maybe its the midges

[karena]

we use s and l for going down steep hills usually l for our hills - also useful i believe for holding a gear for snow driving or you could just use the hold button on the side for whichever gear you want to stay in.
Hadnt thought of using it for 30mph zones its usually such a pain holding the bongo back at that speed.