How to Use the M+/M- in an Automatic Transmission Car?
3 Answers
When switching to M mode, there will be "+/-" symbols on the gear shift. Pushing forward increases the gear by one, and pulling backward decreases the gear by one, allowing for gear switching. Here are the specific methods for using M+/M- in an automatic transmission car: 1. Low-speed overtaking: Use "M-" to downshift. Lowering the gear provides higher torque output, allowing the car to accelerate quickly in a short time. Applying the throttle can make overtaking easier. 2. Uphill driving: Use "M-" to downshift, as lowering the gear provides sufficient torque. For steep slopes, you can shift down to first or second gear for better climbing power. 3. Downhill driving: Without braking, the vehicle's speed will increase due to potential energy, which can be dangerous. You can use "M+" or "M-" to adjust the gear to 2-3, utilizing engine braking to control the vehicle. If the speed is still too high, you can use the brakes to assist. For safety, avoid coasting in neutral downhill, as a powerless vehicle becomes passive. 4. Slippery or icy roads: Adjust the gear to second using "M+" or "M-". Avoid sudden acceleration to reduce wheel slip. Vehicles with four-wheel drive can switch to 4WD mode to enhance traction. 5. Highways: Manually use "M+" to shift to a higher gear, maintaining a speed of 80-100km/h for better fuel efficiency.
I've been driving for over a decade, and manual mode is actually quite simple. Normally, you just shift to D (Drive) gear when driving. If you want manual control, pull the lever back to M (Manual) position. It's particularly useful for steep climbs or overtaking - push the '+' paddle to upshift one gear, pull the '-' paddle to downshift one gear. The transmission shifts smoothly when the tachometer hits 4,000-5,000 rpm, and using lower gears on long descents can save your brakes. It might feel unfamiliar at first, but you'll get the hang of it after a few practices - though automatic mode is still more convenient in city traffic jams. Most importantly, don't keep staring at the gear lever; safe driving is the priority. Before using this feature, it's best to check your vehicle's manual as operation details may vary slightly between different car models.
Last week, I took my family on a self-driving trip and had the chance to use the manual mode. The gear shifting operation is actually quite intuitive—just move the gear lever from D to M while driving. The dashboard will display the current gear number. Pushing the front end of the gear lever shifts up, while pulling it back shifts down. When going downhill on mountain roads, second or third gear is most suitable, eliminating the need to constantly press the brake to control speed. Downshifting for a speed boost during overtaking is particularly exhilarating—just remember to manually upshift before the RPM hits the red zone. If unused for a long time, it will automatically switch back to D mode, and there's no need to re-engage it for temporary stops. Keep your foot steady during operation to avoid confusing the accelerator and brake. Beginners are advised to practice on open roads first. While the manual mode in an automatic transmission car doesn't offer the same freedom as a pure manual transmission, it does add a bit more driving fun compared to a purely automatic setup.
