How to use the paddle shifters on Audi A6L?
3 Answers
Select manual mode (usually via a button), then push the gear lever to the "D" position, and use the paddles to shift up or down. First, place the gear lever in manual mode, then freely shift to the desired gear using the paddles when the engine speed is appropriate. By observing the gear lever of the Audi A6L, you can see the gear selections. Similar to the operation of an automatic transmission, move the gear lever to select the corresponding gear. When in D mode, push the gear lever to the right to switch to manual shifting mode. The instrument cluster will also display the selected gear.
When I first started using the paddle shifters on my Audi A6L, I was a bit confused, but it's actually quite simple. You need to shift the gear lever to S mode or M mode first—don't try it in Park or Reverse. Behind the steering wheel, there are left and right paddles: the left one is for downshifting, which helps with acceleration for overtaking; the right one is for upshifting, ideal for coasting at lower speeds to save fuel. Every time I drove, I practiced downshifting at 60 km/h, and the engine's responsive growl was thrilling. Just be careful not to let the RPM stay in the redline zone for too long, as it can wear out the engine. Beginners should find an empty road to practice first. The paddles also help with engine braking on downhill slopes to protect your brakes, saving maintenance costs. Overall, you’ll get the hang of it once you get used to the rhythm.
I often drive an Audi A6L on long-distance trips, and the paddle shifters have become my great helpers, especially in mountainous areas. The operation is super straightforward: after starting, select S mode, lightly press the left paddle to downshift and accelerate, or press the right paddle to upshift and control speed when going downhill—the engine responds as quickly as a race car. Don’t press randomly, though, or the system will automatically intervene to adjust gears. In real driving, combining the paddles with dynamic mode works best: downshifting one gear uphill provides ample power, while engine braking downhill reduces brake usage, making it safer and more fuel-efficient. I often recommend friends practice at highway exits to get familiar with the car’s feedback.
