What do the plus and minus signs on the D gear of an automatic car mean?
3 Answers
Automatic car D gear plus and minus signs indicate that the automatic transmission is a manual-automatic transmission with manual function. During driving, the gear lever can be shifted from the D gear to the plus and minus side to simulate a manual transmission, so the transmission will not automatically upshift. When shifted to the plus sign, the gear will increase, and when shifted to the minus sign, the gear will decrease. Precautions for shifting gears in an automatic car are: 1. Do not step on the accelerator pedal when shifting gears; 2. Do not immediately step hard on the accelerator pedal after shifting into gear; 3. The vehicle can only be started in P or N gear; 4. The gear lever must be removed from P gear by stepping on the brake; 5. Do not shift into N gear to coast while driving.
When driving, the plus and minus signs next to the D gear in an automatic transmission refer to the manual shift mode. The + button is used to upshift, allowing you to switch to a higher gear for increased speed or better fuel efficiency, while the - button is for downshifting, which raises the engine RPM and boosts power. For example, downshifting when climbing a steep hill gives the car more strength, and downshifting on long descents helps control speed using engine braking to prevent brake overheating. I find this particularly useful on mountain roads or when towing, but in the city, automatic mode is usually hassle-free. Remember not to shift randomly, especially at high speeds, as improper operation can waste fuel and damage the car—safety comes first. Beginners should practice on flat ground first to get familiar with the feel before hitting the road.
The plus and minus signs on the D gear actually represent the manual shift function. Upshifting increases speed and reduces fuel consumption, while downshifting lowers speed and enhances power response. As someone who frequently drives long distances, I find it incredibly convenient. For example, when overtaking, a quick downshift makes the engine respond immediately, delivering a stronger acceleration feeling; or when driving on slippery rain or snow-covered roads, manually controlling the gear assists in maintaining stable driving. The principle behind this is that the transmission gives you some control, though not fully manual. However, don't overuse it, as it may put extra load on the engine. During maintenance, I've heard technicians say that proper use can extend the transmission's lifespan. So now, I use it sparingly when needed, but most of the time, I rely on automatic mode for simplicity and peace of mind.
