How to Use a Column Shifter?

[AlexaFitz]

When shifting gears, press the brake pedal and then move the gear lever, just like with a regular automatic transmission car. After starting, the gear is in neutral (N). Pushing the lever upward engages reverse (R), while pushing it downward engages drive (D). When parking, press the brake, shift to neutral (N), then press the external button to engage park (P). Below is relevant information about column shifters: 1. One button on the column shifter is for park (P). Gently pushing the lever forward or backward engages neutral (N), pushing it firmly forward engages reverse (R), and pushing it firmly backward engages drive (D). The parking brake is replaced by the park (P) position. Remember to press the brake when shifting. 2. The term "column shifter" comes from the motion of pulling the gear lever toward the driver's chest when shifting. There are two types of gear lever arrangements in cars: floor-mounted and column-mounted. A gear lever located below the right side of the steering wheel is called a column shifter, which is more common in American cars. 3. Column shifters are generally automatic. Currently, common American cars with column shifters in the Chinese market include the Buick GL8 and older Regal models. German brands like Mercedes-Benz also frequently use column shifters, such as in the C, E, R, S, ML, and GL series. British brand Rolls-Royce's three current models (Phantom, Ghost, Wraith) also feature column shifters.

[DeAdelyn]

The gear shift lever is actually the small stalk on the right side of the steering wheel. A gentle push or pull is all it takes to change gears, making driving incredibly convenient. After getting in the car, first step on the brake, start the engine, and the gear lever will be in P (Park). A slight push forward moves it to N (Neutral), and pushing further switches it to D (Drive for forward motion). To reverse, pull it back to R (Reverse). Just use your thumb and index finger to apply gentle force—no need to bend over to find a traditional gear stick. Whether driving on highways or city roads, I really like it because it saves me from moving my arm around, keeping my focus on the steering wheel, making long drives much more relaxed. But don’t forget to check the dashboard indicator to confirm the gear position to avoid confusion, especially for beginners who might accidentally push the wrong way at first. For safety, just practice a few times and you’ll get used to it.

[DiMichael]

I think the column shifter is quite fun to play with. The lever is behind the steering wheel, and you can shift gears with just a touch. Step on the brake to start the engine. When the gear is in P, just push it slightly upward to N to get ready to drive, then push further up to D. To reverse, simply pull it down to R. When parking, pull it back to P. Operate it gently, don't be too rough. As a car enthusiast, I like its simple design that frees up center console space for storage. Sitting inside feels spacious and comfortable, and you won't accidentally touch the shifter when turning. However, this column shifter is commonly seen in premium cars like Mercedes-Benz, and may not be available in many other brands. With prolonged use, it's necessary to check the lever's lubrication to prevent stiffness.

[AxelMarie]

The gear shift lever is operated by the small lever on the right side of the steering wheel. Press the brake to start the car, with the gear lever in the P (Park) position. To move forward, first push it to N (Neutral), then continue pushing to D (Drive). To reverse, pull it back to R (Reverse). For parking, push or pull it back to P (Park). The entire process requires gentle touches without applying force. This design helps keep my hands on the steering wheel at all times, making turns and parking more stable.

[DiLola]

I've been using a column shifter for several years now, and it's much neater than those old-fashioned center-mounted gear levers. To start, press the brake pedal and begin from P (Park). Gently push forward to shift first to N (Neutral), then to D (Drive) to move forward. Pull backward to R (Reverse) for backing up, and finally return to P when parking. Always check the dashboard indicator lights when shifting to avoid mistakes, especially when going downhill – accidentally shifting to Neutral can cause the car to roll. This design saves cabin space, leaving ample room for drinks or backpacks. Occasionally wipe the shifter with a damp cloth to prevent dust buildup and maintain responsiveness.

[RichardDella]

The gear shift is a small gadget on the steering column, making gear changes super convenient. After getting in the car, step on the brake to start the engine. When the gear is in the P position, push it forward slightly to enter N (Neutral), then push it all the way to D (Drive) to move forward. To reverse, pull it back to R (Reverse). To park, push it back to P (Park). The operation is light and easy—no need to press hard. This makes driving hassle-free, freeing up space for placing my phone on the dashboard for navigation, and I don’t get distracted looking for the gear shift during turns, improving safety. Just remember not to fiddle with it while driving—if the gear is wrong, the dashboard will light up a warning, so check promptly.