What does D+- mean in automatic transmission?
2 Answers
D+- in automatic transmission represents the manual mode of an automatic gearbox, indicating that the vehicle is equipped with a semi-automatic transmission that combines automatic gear shifting with simulated manual gear shifting. The D+- mode not only retains the automatic gear shifting function but also adds the manual gear shifting capability, breaking free from the limitations of traditional automatic transmissions. This allows drivers to enjoy the fun of free gear shifting like in manual transmissions while still experiencing the comfort of automatic transmissions. Additional information: 1. In manual mode, the vehicle will have three restricted gears: D1, D2, and D3. When driving through complex road conditions, switching to manual mode can make driving more convenient. 2. When encountering slopes, the vehicle can be switched to manual mode with the gear shifted to D3 or D2, providing greater power and limiting the speed to these two gears. For steeper slopes, the gear can be shifted to 1st gear. Similarly, when going downhill, shifting to these two gears can reduce brake pad wear, lower the probability of accidents, help control speed, and make driving safer.
That plus and minus sign next to the D gear on automatic transmissions – I’ve driven so many cars I know it like the back of my hand. It’s actually the manual mode shift. My old American car had this exact design – just hold the D gear and flick it right to enter manual mode, push forward to upshift and pull back to downshift. Super useful when driving downhill on mountain roads; downshifting lets the engine naturally help slow the car, saving you from constantly braking. Once during a heavy rainstorm on the highway, I manually dropped two gears for an overtake – the revs shot straight to 5000 RPM, and the acceleration felt like a sports car. But rookies, take note: don’t let the tach needle linger in the red zone too often – protecting the transmission is crucial.
