How to switch between D+ and D- in automatic transmission?

[LaLola]

Automatic transmission's "D+" and "D-" refer to the manual mode of the car. When the gear is in D position, move the gear lever to the left or right to switch to manual mode. In manual mode, gear shifting is performed by operating "D+" and "D-". Pushing towards "D+" direction upshifts, while pushing towards "D-" direction downshifts.

[StJeffrey]

Switching to manual mode (the one with + and -) on an automatic transmission car is actually quite simple. I love using this feature when driving sports cars. First, make sure the car is in motion—don't mess with it while parked. Typically, with the gear lever in the D position, you just need to gently push it sideways into the slot marked M or S—some cars require pressing a button or using the paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. Once shifted, the dashboard will display the current gear, such as M1 or S1. Then, use the + button or paddle to upshift when the RPM feels high enough, and use the - to downshift, like when descending a slope to use engine braking and save brake pads. Why do I use it often? Because it makes driving more engaging—like maintaining a low gear and high RPM on winding mountain roads for quicker acceleration, while avoiding the jerky gear shifts of automatic mode. But beginners shouldn’t experiment recklessly; aggressive downshifting at high speeds could damage the engine. Always check the manual first, as operations vary slightly between cars.

[KathrynLee]

Switching to manual mode in an automatic transmission is actually quite simple. I often use it to control speed when driving my family SUV. Here's how: After the car is moving, gently slide the gear lever from D (Drive) to the manual position, usually marked with an M or +/- symbol. Once shifted, the dashboard will display the current gear number. Then, press the + button to upshift (recommended around 3000 RPM) and the - button to downshift – especially useful when descending hills as it uses engine braking to reduce brake wear. I recommend using it on steep slopes or snowy days to prevent skidding. Safety first: Avoid aggressive downshifting at high speeds as it may cause engine over-revving. Some vehicles have steering wheel paddles for easier operation – mine uses left paddle for downshifting and right for upshifting. Remember, manual mode isn't mandatory but enhances driving enjoyment and control, particularly in stop-and-go traffic where manually locking gears prevents frequent shifting.

[LaLandon]

When I first started driving, I was also curious about how to use the D+- on an automatic transmission. Simply put: once the car is moving, shift the gear lever from D to the manual zone, which is marked with M or S. After shifting, the screen will display the numerical gear. Press + to upshift, for example, when you feel the car has enough power; press - to downshift, which is useful when slowing down. Why switch? My driving instructor said it can protect the brakes when going downhill or help accelerate faster by manually downshifting when overtaking. Beginners should be careful not to make mistakes, ensure to try it on flat roads, and avoid pressing the accelerator too hard.

[SanLila]

Shifting from automatic to manual mode involves some mechanical principles, which I love to study when researching cars. In terms of operation: while driving, moving the gear lever from D to the manual position (possibly marked M or DS) triggers the transmission into manual control. After that, use the +/- buttons or paddle shifters to change gears: pressing + commands the computer to upshift, while pressing - downshifts, essentially simulating the clutch action of a manual transmission. Why is this mode useful? For example, manually locking in a lower gear when climbing hills prevents power loss from automatic downshifting; using engine braking downhill reduces brake fade due to overheating. Technically, it utilizes the transmission's electronic control unit, with response speeds varying by vehicle. Safety tip: avoid exceeding the redline RPM, and occasional use in daily driving can improve efficiency.

[ElliotAnn]

I use an automatic transmission car for my daily commute, and switching to manual mode is simple: while driving, just push the gear lever from D to the side marked with +/-. After shifting, the screen displays the current gear. Press + to upshift (press it when you feel the acceleration is smooth) and - to downshift (useful for decelerating or downhill driving). I often use manual mode in traffic jams to lock the gear and avoid the jerky feeling of automatic shifting. Benefits include slight fuel savings if done correctly, such as manually upshifting to a higher gear during highway cruising. However, don’t rely on it too much—automatic mode is generally sufficient for city driving.