What are the + and - symbols on the automatic transmission gear shift?

[RonanAnn]

The plus and minus symbols on the automatic transmission gear shift represent the manual mode. In manual mode, the driver can manually upshift or downshift, similar to driving a manual transmission vehicle. Typically, only vehicles with a manual-automatic transmission (often called "Tiptronic" or "Sportronic") feature these symbols. The symbols are usually positioned around the letter "M" (for Manual), with the plus symbol above and the minus symbol below. Pushing the lever toward the minus symbol downshifts by one gear, while pushing it toward the plus symbol upshifts by one gear. The manual mode can be engaged at any time without restrictions based on time or engine speed. The transmission will automatically match the appropriate gear based on the vehicle's real-time speed. Manual mode is commonly used in situations such as ascending or descending hills, overtaking, starting on icy or snowy roads, or in heavy traffic. When switched to manual mode, the vehicle's display will indicate the current gear (e.g., D1 for first gear, D2 for second gear).