How to Use M1 and M2 in Tiptronic Transmission?
2 Answers
Tiptronic transmission's M1 and M2 are generally used in situations such as uphill or downhill driving, traffic congestion, rainy days, or slippery roads due to snow and ice. In an automatic transmission, M1 and M2 are equivalent to the 1st and 2nd gears in a manual transmission. Use M1 or M2 gear to continue driving under the following circumstances: 1. When the vehicle is going up or down a steep slope, shift to M1 or M2 gear to control the speed using the engine's power. 2. During traffic congestion, engage M1 or M2 gear. If left in D gear, the transmission will continuously shift between speeds. By switching to M1 or M2, the transmission only shifts between 1st and 2nd gears, reducing wear and tear.
Using the manual mode M1 and M2 in a semi-automatic transmission is actually quite simple. I've been driving this type of car for several years, so let me share some experience. After switching to manual mode, you shift gears using the paddle shifters on the steering wheel or the +/- buttons on the gear lever—M1 stands for first gear, and M2 is second gear. Use M1 when starting or climbing steep hills, as it locks in a low gear to prevent automatic upshifting, giving the car more power. This is especially useful in situations like mountain road traffic jams. M2 is suitable for low-speed cruising, such as driving at 30-50 km/h on suburban roads, avoiding the jerkiness of frequent gear shifts. Pay attention to the tachometer while operating—don’t let the engine run at high RPM for too long, as it may overheat or consume more fuel. I also prefer using M1 when starting in snowy conditions because it provides stable power output, reducing wheel spin. Remember, manual mode is for more precise control, but it’s not meant for everyday use. Beginners should start with automatic mode and gradually get used to the convenience of manual shifting after a few drives. If you forget to switch back to automatic, the car will protect itself, so no need to worry about safety. In short, these gears make driving more fun and efficient—try switching at traffic lights to experience the feel of manual control.
