How to Use M+ and M- for Uphill and Downhill Driving in an Automatic Transmission Car?
3 Answers
Using the "M-" gear to lower the gear position can provide high torque, allowing the car to accelerate quickly in a short time. When driving uphill, you should use "M-" as the lower gear provides stronger engine power. You can shift to gears 2-3 using "M+". On highways, drivers can manually shift to higher gears using "M+" to maintain a speed of 80-100 km/h, which improves fuel efficiency. Shifting to gear 2 using "M+" can help reduce wheel slippage.
Using the M mode in an automatic transmission car is quite practical when driving uphill. I usually switch to M mode before climbing a slope and manually shift to a lower gear, such as 1st or 2nd gear. This allows the engine to deliver more power, making the climb easier and preventing the car from rolling back or lacking power. The same applies when going downhill—using M mode with a lower gear helps control the speed through engine braking, avoiding excessive use of the brakes that could overheat and damage the brake pads. I tried this technique the first time I drove on mountain roads and noticed a significant improvement in control and safety, especially on slippery slopes during rain or snow. Even in city driving, I use this method when exiting underground parking garages—it's simple and reassuring. Just remember not to shift into too high a gear, like 5th or above, as it can cause excessive RPM and potentially harm the engine. It's also a good idea to check the brakes after each slope to prevent unexpected issues.
The key to using the M gear for uphill and downhill driving is to utilize lower gears for assistance. Before ascending a steep slope, I quickly shift to M gear and select 1st or 2nd gear. This enhances the vehicle's torque, making climbing more efficient and preventing stalling or speed loss mid-climb. When descending, I follow the same method, shifting to 2nd or 3rd gear to rely on the engine's natural deceleration, preventing brake overheating and failure. The principle is that lower gears increase engine load, acting as a brake, offering more flexibility than the standard D gear mode. Remember to maintain a steady speed on long slopes and adjust gears as needed. In daily driving, this habit can extend brake life, especially useful on highway exit ramps. Beginners can practice on small slopes a few times to get the hang of it.
