How to Use the Plus and Minus Signs on the Automatic Transmission S Gear?
3 Answers
Automatic transmission S gear plus and minus signs are not used simultaneously. The S gear is the car's sport mode. When the S gear is engaged, the car enters sport mode, providing stronger power and faster throttle response. The plus and minus signs next to the gear lever are used after engaging the M gear. The M gear is the manual mode of the automatic transmission. After engaging the M gear, you can use the gear lever to control the transmission to shift up or down. In S gear sport mode, the transmission can shift freely, but the shifting is delayed, keeping the engine at high RPM for a longer time, allowing the car to move at low gear and high RPM for an extended period, thereby achieving greater torque output and acceleration.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience in automatic transmission cars, I've always considered the S mode with manual shift buttons as a great companion for enhancing driving pleasure. Typically, there's an 'S' mark near the gear lever; shifting into it activates the sport mode, where the engine maintains higher RPMs for more agile acceleration. The plus and minus buttons near the steering wheel or gear lever allow me to manually control shift points—left hand for downshifting and right for upshifting. This proves particularly useful during overtaking or mountain driving—for instance, downshifting on highways for a quick speed boost, where the engine's roar immediately translates into power. It's also handy for engine braking on steep descents to protect the brake system. However, avoid prolonged high-RPM usage as it increases fuel consumption. During daily city commutes, I rarely use S mode, prioritizing fuel efficiency, but I enjoy it on weekend getaways. In short: practice to get familiar with the rhythm, don't hesitate—the car has automatic protections to prevent damage.
I'm a young guy who just learned to drive, and my new car comes with S mode and paddle shifters, which I've been having a blast with. When driving in the city, I switch to S mode during traffic jams to kill boredom, manually controlling the gears with the paddles—it's as fun as driving a manual. A quick tap on the downshift paddle makes the engine respond instantly, and pulling away from red lights feels extra cool. Normally, I stick to D mode for fuel efficiency, but when I want to race a friend, I drop two gears in S mode—the sudden acceleration is exhilarating. I'd advise newbies not to mess around with it on highways; practice in an empty lot first to learn when to upshift (to reduce noise) or downshift (for more power). It's a safe and stylish way to drive, but overdoing it will increase fuel consumption.
