- Paddle Shifters allow the driver to control the car just like a manual sans the manual gearbox
- Paddle shifters are convenient and quick to use
- They also have some disadvantages and its discussed in this article
Automatic cars are boring to drive. Yes, with the lack of a gearshift, sometimes the joy of driving a car is killed. However, they are pretty convenient if you are driving in stop-and-go traffic. You do not need to switch the gears often as you do in a manual transmission car. Another advantage of an automatic cars is that they offer better fuel economy. Not all, but some of them do. But, the point still remains, automatics are no fun to drive like a manual. Right? Well, wrong. Not all have a similar story to tell. Automatic transmission cars with paddle shifters are a boon to society and car enthusiasts. Driving an automatic car where you can also take control of the car manually with the help of paddle shifters offers you the best of both worlds.
In this article, we will be sharing the step-by-step guide to how to use the paddle shifters and when you should use them.
What are paddle shifters and Where are they placed?
Paddle shifters are the mechanism that allows you to change the gear without placing your hands on the gear lever thus ensuring a smooth and safe drive. They are placed behind the steering wheel with (+) and (-) markings.
Also Read: Top 12 Cars With Paddle Shifters Under Rs 15 Lakh - Honda Jazz to VW Taigun
How to use paddle shifters and should you use them?
Using paddle shifters is an easy task. All you need to do is take hold of the steering wheel and use the (+) and (-) markings. The former helps in upshifting a gear while the latter downshifts the gear.
Yes, using paddle shifters is quite beneficial. In fact, most racecars and performance-oriented cars (supercars, hypercars etc) get paddle shifters. Nowadays, even budget-oriented cars are getting paddle shifters.
Paddle shifters are not only used for straight-line races but also to keep the engine healthy. Correct upshifting and downshifting using paddle shifters go a long way in keeping the condition good and also reduce the wear on the brake pads.
Does Paddle Shifters always keep the gear in manual mode?
As I said above, knowing the correct way of upshifting and downshifting goes a long way in keeping the engine's life healthy. All you need to know about the correct RPM levels and when you should upshift to a higher gear. And vice-versa.
Also Read: 2023 Hyundai i20 Facelift Spotted; No Diesel Engine With The New Model
Driving a CVT car with paddle shifters
Driving a CVT car with paddle shifters might not always be fun. Even though paddle shifters bring the fun factor behind the wheel, it does not stay long because they are programmed with the ECU in such a way that it doesn't damage the car's transmission. After a point, the car automatically shifts to the D mode which is the Drive.
Driving an AT car with paddle shifters
Just like what we see in a CVT unit, it also happens with a car that gets a torque-converter automatic gearbox. Even though the AT units get an 'M' (manual) mode, sometimes the ECU is so finely tuned that it just shifts automatically to the D mode and does not bend against the driver's abusive behaviour. The last thing one wants to do with their car is to blow up the transmission.
However, this is not the case always. It differs from car to car. You need to refer to the manual of your car.
Example
When driving the 2022 Citroen C5 Aircross (one that is sold in India with a 2.0L Diesel engine), if you use paddle shifters when driving on the 'D' mode, after some seconds, the car will automatically switch to the D mode. The manual mode caused for a brief amount of period ends and the transmission returns to the pre-determined setting which is the 'D' mode.
However, if you switch to the 'M' (manual) mode and then use the paddle shifters, the transmission remains in the gear that you have selected for a really long time. Mind you, if you happen to redline the engine often then you are just increasing the wear of the engine which is not at all good for its longevity.
Do all cars that get paddle shifters have a manual mode?
No, it is not true at all. Not all cars that get paddle shifters have a manual mode.
Advantages of Paddle Shifters
Gearshifts happen quicker
Often handy as one does not have to depend on the conventional H-type gear pattern
Looks cool in a car
Lets you take control of the car manually
Offers a sporty and enthusiastic driving experience
With the advancement in technology, it limits the use of braking pedal as you can just downshift when going on downhill and it'll slow the car with the help of engine-braking
Disadvantages of Paddle Shifters
You can damage the transmission if you don't how to use paddle shifters correctly
Expensive to maintain
Slight delay in the acceleration after a shift
Paddle shifters get stuck at one point due to any internal part damage
Examples of mass-market cars in India that get Paddle Shifters
Honda Amaze
Honda Jazz
Honda City
Maruti Ertiga
Kia Sonet
Hyundai Venue N Line
Hyundai i20 N Line
Hyundai Verna
Skoda Slavia
The above list comprises some examples of mass-market cars in India that get paddle shifters with them.
Verdict
Should you buy a car with paddle shifters? Yes. Absolutely. The joy of taking the control of your car manually sans the manual gearbox gives the driver a unique experience. However, one should know how to use paddle shifters correctly and not misuse them. Putting the paddle shifters to the wrong use will only spoil the quality of your engine and increase its wear.
Hope you like the step-by-step guide explanation of paddle shifters. Join our 91Wheels YouTube Channel to stay connected with the latest automotive videos. Do subscribe to the channel!
