What is the correct way to use the automatic transmission D+ and D-?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission's "D+" and "D-" refer to the manual mode. In manual mode, the driver can shift gears up or down by operating "D+" and "D-". Pushing towards "D+" once increases the gear by one, and pushing towards "D-" once decreases the gear by one. Below are the ways to use D+ and D-: 1. When going downhill, you can shift up to D2 or D3 using "D+". Downhill driving requires the engine's braking effect, and 2nd or 3rd gear can meet the power demand without needing the high torque of 1st gear. Sometimes when going uphill with sufficient power, you also need to use "D+" to shift up to prevent power waste and damage to the engine and transmission. 2. When going uphill, greater power is needed, so you should use "D-" to downshift the vehicle for higher torque to climb. Similarly, if the vehicle speeds up uncontrollably when going downhill, you should also use "D-" to downshift and control the vehicle. In addition, "D-" can also be used for short overtaking or in congested road conditions.
Every time I drive an automatic transmission car now, I always prioritize safety: press the brake pedal when starting, shift to P (Park) mode before ignition to avoid accidental movement. While driving, I mainly use D (Drive) mode for forward movement, which suits most daily scenarios like commuting in traffic or city driving—the system automatically shifts gears for fuel efficiency and convenience. When needing rapid acceleration for overtaking, I switch to S (Sport) mode; the engine roars louder and accelerates faster, but I avoid frequent use to prevent excessive fuel consumption and engine strain. On steep mountain roads or long descents, I shift to L (Low) mode to rely on engine braking and prevent brake overheating. At red lights, I keep it in D mode with the brake pressed instead of shifting repeatedly to reduce transmission wear. These have become my driving habits, combined with regular transmission maintenance and fluid checks, ensuring the car stays in top condition long-term.
