How to Use Shifting Paddles

What is a paddle shifter? This feature allows you to shift gear while holding the steering wheel without having to move your hand to the gear lever. Paddle shifters make switching gears easier and safer. Wondering how to use shifting paddles? You’re certainly not alone. We discuss the use of paddle shifters more in-depth in this guide. You can then explore our paddle shifter cars in person to see how they can take your daily drives in Kansas City, MO to new heights. 

What are Paddle Shifters?

What exactly is a paddle shifter? Paddle shifters are often found on sportier vehicles and trim levels because they allow drivers to switch gears quickly. Typically, you will find them behind or near the steering wheel. One paddle brings you down a gear and the other paddle brings you up a gear. When you use a paddle, the clutch receives an electronic signal for gear selection, causing the gear to shift.

Why opt for paddle shifter cars? They are easy to use, and you can enjoy more control to help you manage your RPMs better. What’s more? Did you know that with proper downshifting, the use of paddle shifters can even extend the life of your brake pads? 

How to Use Paddle Shifters

If you are not sure how to use shifting paddles, we can help. When driving a car equipped with paddle shifters, you’ll want to put it in manual mode. This allows you to be in full control to paddle shift. The right paddle upshifts and the left paddle downshifts. 

While some Wichita, KS drivers may be intimidated by the process of using paddle shifters, you do not have to worry about harming your vehicle when shifting gears. A paddle shifter will not change gears if: 

• You upshift before the engine reaches the lower limit of the higher gear
• You downshift before reaching the upper limit of the lower gear
• You press one paddle while the other is being held down
• You press both paddles at the same time
• You try to shift to third or higher while stationary
• If you’d rather let the automatic transmission take over for a while, just enter D mode.

Explore Paddle Shifter Cars at Alfa Romeo Kansas City

At Alfa Romeo Kansas City, Omaha, NE drivers can get set up with a test drive in any of our paddle shifter cars. Add excitement to your commute when you take advantage of a paddle shifter. Contact us today if you have any questions, or continue your research in the meantime.