How to Use the D+ and D- Gears?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission's "D+" and "D-" refer to the manual mode. Generally, when the gear is in the D position, shifting the gear lever to the left or right can switch to manual mode. In manual mode, the driver can shift gears up or down by operating "D+" and "D-". Pushing towards "D+" increases the gear by one, and pushing towards "D-" decreases the gear by one. More information about "D+" and "D-" is as follows: 1. When going downhill, you can shift up to D2 or D3 using "D+". Downhill driving requires the engine's braking effect, and 2nd or 3rd gear can meet the power demand without needing the high torque of 1st gear. 2. Sometimes on uphill sections with sufficient power, it is also necessary to use "D+" to upshift to prevent power waste and damage to the engine and transmission. When the ECU does not accurately discern the driver's intention, such as not responding when it should upshift, you can manually upshift using "D+".
When I first started driving, I was really curious about the D+ and D- paddles. Later, I learned that they are the buttons or paddles near the steering wheel, which allow manual shifting up or down after putting the car in D mode. On flat roads, you don’t need to use them, but when climbing steep slopes, pressing D- to downshift makes the engine feel more powerful. It also helps when accelerating to overtake on highways. However, it takes some getting used to—don’t press them randomly. The first time I messed up, the RPMs shot up! Now, during my daily commute, I use them to shift more responsively in city traffic jams. In short, it’s a way to simulate manual shifting, giving you more control over the drive. New drivers will get the hang of it after a few tries. Just remember to switch back to automatic mode when parking—safety first!
