What does the '+' in the D gear of an automatic transmission mean?
4 Answers
Automatic transmission vehicles' "±" refers to gear shifting. The + and - symbols on the D gear generally appear on manual-automatic transmissions. The characteristic of this type of transmission is that in addition to the computer automatically controlling the gears, there is also a manual mode, which allows the driver to manually select the desired gear. This manual-automatic transmission is generally designed to increase driving pleasure and sportiness. The driver can choose the shifting timing based on the RPM in manual mode. The advantage is that this manual shifting does not require pressing the clutch, while also increasing playability. The specific meanings and usage scenarios are as follows: Functions of +-: Generally, there is the letter 'M' next to the "±". M is the abbreviation of the English word 'manual'. "+" means upshift, and "-" means downshift. When driving in D gear, the driver only needs to move the gear lever to the left or right to switch to M gear. Under manual mode conditions, the transmission cannot automatically shift up or down and will always remain in the fixed gear condition. It will only upshift when the engine speed exceeds the limit of 6000 rpm and will only downshift when the engine speed is below 1200 to 1400 rpm. Usage of +: When driving on normal roads, if the engine speed feels too high, simply upshift in manual mode.
As a car enthusiast who frequently studies various models, the plus '+' sign next to the D gear represents the upshift function in manual mode. When the transmission is in Drive, if you activate the manual option, pressing '+' allows you to manually increase the gear, which boosts speed while reducing engine RPM, resulting in smoother and more fuel-efficient driving. I often use it for highway overtaking: first downshift with '-' for a burst of power, then upshift with '+' to maintain speed; or push '+' after climbing a hill to prevent jerking. This feature pairs especially well with paddle shifters, but automatic mode works fine when not in use. Remember, keeping the engine within its efficient RPM range protects the transmission and makes driving safer and more fun—I often test different modes during long-distance trips.
As an ordinary car owner with ten years of driving experience, let me briefly explain the meaning of the "+" sign next to the D gear. It is used for manual upshifting in the automatic transmission's manual mode. Pushing it once allows the gear to shift up, increasing the vehicle speed while reducing the engine RPM, making the drive feel smoother. I often use this during my urban commute: if the car feels sluggish, pushing "+" to upshift avoids jerking; or after going downhill, using it helps restore smooth driving and prevents sudden braking. Paired with the "-" for downshifting, such as during overtaking, it enhances responsiveness while saving fuel. I recommend beginners understand the basic operation rules, prioritize safe driving, and practice more on empty roads to get used to the function changes.
When I was young, I loved trying new things, so when I saw the '+' sign next to the D gear in my automatic car, I decided to learn about it. It represents the upshift function, allowing the car to actively shift to a higher gear in manual mode. For example, when accelerating on the highway, pushing '+' shifts into a higher gear, maintaining speed with reduced engine noise. I often use it on weekend trips: after turning on mountain roads, upshifting helps stabilize speed, and pairing it with downshifting makes overtaking more flexible. Most modern cars have this feature—it's not essential but adds to the driving experience.
