What does the plus and minus sign on the D gear mean?
3 Answers
The plus and minus sign on the D gear indicates the manual mode of an automatic transmission. Pushing towards the plus sign increases a gear, while pushing towards the minus sign decreases a gear. The specific steps for use are: 1. Press the brake pedal; 2. Press the one-touch start button; 3. The dashboard lights up, and the vehicle starts; 4. Place the automatic gear lever in the D plus/minus position to enter manual mode; 5. Push the gear lever forward once to increase a gear; 6. Push the gear lever backward once to decrease a gear. The D gear, also known as the drive gear, when the gear shift lever is placed in this position, the hydraulic system control device automatically connects the corresponding forward gear oil circuit based on the throttle opening signal and vehicle speed signal.
I often use the plus/minus function on automatic transmission cars, which represents the manual shift mode, meaning you can control gear shifts up or down like a manual transmission car. When driving in D mode, pushing the plus sign shifts up a gear, while the minus sign shifts down, making the operation simple and intuitive. I particularly enjoy using this feature when driving on mountain roads or overtaking on highways. Especially when overtaking, downshifting a gear in advance allows for quicker acceleration, enhancing the driving experience. In traffic jams, manually locking in a lower gear can also reduce frequent gear shifts by the transmission, saving fuel and ensuring smoother rides. However, be cautious not to downshift too casually to avoid excessively high RPMs that could harm the engine. Beginners can practice in an open area to get familiar with it before using it regularly—safety first. Overall, it's a thoughtful design that makes driving an automatic transmission car more flexible and versatile.
The plus and minus signs are manual shift control symbols. You can shift gears while driving in D mode, providing drivers with more flexibility. For example, manually downshifting during rapid acceleration or steep descents enhances safety by avoiding delays in full-auto mode. However, I must emphasize safety: only practice this when necessary, like on open roads, and avoid distracted operation in heavy traffic. Overuse may cause engine overload, overheating, or increased fuel consumption. Regular transmission fluid checks can prolong this function's lifespan, but staying focused while driving remains fundamental.
