Why Do Automatic Transmissions Need Paddle Shifters?

1 Answers
LeDiana
07/24/25 7:15pm
Paddle shifters are gear-shifting devices for automatic transmissions, allowing manual gear changes by pulling up to shift up and pressing down to shift down. They enhance the driver's enjoyment and are particularly useful for rapid acceleration when overtaking. Here's an introduction to paddle shifters: 1. Paddle shifters are commonly used in sports cars and sedans with manual-automatic transmissions, typically located behind the steering wheel or on its sides. If there are paddle shifters on both sides, note that both function the same—pulling up shifts up, and pressing down shifts down—rather than one for upshifting and the other for downshifting. Be careful not to use them incorrectly. 2. To use paddle shifters, the automatic transmission vehicle must be in D (Drive) or S (Sport) mode. Then, without taking your hands off the steering wheel, you can shift gears using the paddles. This operation, which bypasses the gear lever, is the primary function of paddle shifters. Additionally, if the paddle shifters are not used for a certain period while driving, the vehicle will automatically revert to using the automatic transmission.
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