What the “+/-” Symbols Mean in a Car

In most cars, “+/-” near the gear selector or on steering-wheel paddles signals manual shift control: tap “+” to upshift and “−” to downshift. Depending on context, the same symbols can also mean increase/decrease for settings like cabin temperature, audio volume, or cruise speed, and they mark positive/negative battery terminals under the hood. Here’s how to tell which is which, how to use manual mode safely, and where else you’ll see “+/-” in modern vehicles.

The Transmission Context: Manual Mode on Automatics

On many automatic and dual-clutch transmissions, “+/-” appears beside positions like M, S, or a separate side gate off “D.” Moving the lever into that gate or pulling the paddles engages manual (or sequential) mode, letting you command upshifts with “+” and downshifts with “−.” Automakers brand this feature with names such as Tiptronic, Steptronic, SportShift, or Geartronic; continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) may simulate stepped “gears” you can select the same way.

Modern cars add safeguards: the transmission control unit typically prevents over-revving on downshifts, auto-upshifts at redline in many models, and may revert to full automatic after a period of inactivity or when you hold the right paddle to return to “D.” The instrument cluster usually shows the selected gear (e.g., M3 or just “3”) when manual mode is active.

How to Use the “+/-” Shifter or Paddles

The basic operation is straightforward, but steps can vary slightly by brand. Use this general procedure to engage and operate manual mode in a typical modern vehicle.

1. Engage manual mode: Move the shift lever from “D” into the manual gate (often labeled “M” or “±”), or pull a paddle if your car supports temporary manual control from “D.”
2. Upshift with “+”: Tap the “+” position on the lever or pull the right paddle to select the next higher gear as engine revs climb.
3. Downshift with “−”: Tap the “−” position or pull the left paddle to select a lower gear for more power or engine braking.
4. Watch the tachometer: Avoid lugging (very low RPM in a high gear) and be mindful of the redline; the car may override harmful requests.
5. Exit manual mode: Move the lever back to “D” or hold the right paddle (in many cars) to return to automatic shifting.

Because implementations differ—especially on CVTs and dual-clutch systems—consult your owner’s manual for model-specific behavior, such as whether the car will auto-upshift at redline or stay in the chosen gear.

When and Why Drivers Use It

Manual mode offers more control than full automatic operation in particular scenarios. These are the most common use cases where “+/-” control is helpful.

• Engine braking on hills: Downshift with “−” to use the engine to slow the car on long descents, reducing brake fade.
• Passing or merging: Hold a lower gear to keep the engine in its power band for quicker response.
• Towing or heavy loads: Limit upshifts to prevent gear hunting and maintain stable torque delivery.
• Snow, ice, or loose surfaces: Start in a higher gear to reduce wheelspin, or hold a lower gear to manage traction.
• Curvy roads or track days: Choose gears proactively for consistent corner entry and exit speeds.
• CVTs with simulated steps: Select “gears” to make acceleration feel more predictable under load.

Used thoughtfully, “+/-” control can improve drivability, confidence, and brake longevity, especially in mountainous terrain or when towing.

Other Places You’ll See “+/-” in a Car—and What They Mean

The same symbols appear beyond the transmission, and their meaning depends entirely on location. Here’s where you’ll commonly find them and how to interpret them.

• Steering-wheel paddles: “+” (usually right) upshifts; “−” (usually left) downshifts in manual mode.
• Climate controls: “+” raises and “−” lowers cabin temperature or fan speed.
• Cruise control: “+” increases set speed; “−” decreases it. Long presses often change speed faster.
• Audio controls: “+” increases volume or track number; “−” decreases volume or goes to the previous track.
• Battery terminals: “+” denotes the positive post; “−” denotes the negative/ground. Always follow proper jump-start procedures.
• EV/hybrid regen paddles or buttons: “−” typically increases regenerative braking (more deceleration), while “+” reduces it for more coasting—this varies by model.

If you’re unsure what a particular “+/-” set controls, check its physical location and iconography; the owner’s manual will confirm its specific function and any long-press shortcuts.

Caveats and Safety Notes

While “+/-” controls are designed to be intuitive, a few best practices help you use them safely and effectively.

• Avoid aggressive downshifts on slippery surfaces; sudden engine braking can unsettle the car.
• Don’t lug the engine by staying in too high a gear at very low RPM—downshift to protect components and maintain responsiveness.
• Expect protective overrides: Many cars refuse harmful downshifts and may auto-upshift at redline.
• Know your car’s logic: Some models time-out manual mode, others stay locked in until you exit; CVTs and EVs behave differently.
• Mind EV regen labeling: “−” often means more decel; learn the mapping to avoid surprises in traffic or on descents.
• For jump-starting: Always connect positive-to-positive (“+”) first and follow the specified ground point for the “−” lead to avoid sparks near the battery.

Understanding these nuances helps you get the benefits of “+/-” control without compromising safety or vehicle longevity.

Summary

In a car, “+/-” most commonly indicates manual shift control on automatics and dual-clutch transmissions: “+” to upshift, “−” to downshift. The same symbols elsewhere simply mean increase/decrease for various settings or mark battery polarity. Context—shifter, paddles, dashboard buttons, or under-hood terminals—tells you the correct interpretation. Used properly, “+/-” controls can enhance performance, safety, and comfort, especially in hilly terrain, towing, or challenging driving conditions.

What is the -+ on my shift gear for?

M is for Manual.
This position allows you to shift gears, manually giving you more control over the car’s power. +/- Sign: This means the transmission can shift up or down.

What does +/- mean in a car?

D+/- is a form of manual transmission gear control “M”* provided for a vehicle with automatic transmission. – for a lower gear, + for a higher gear.

When to use plus and minus in car?

+ / – (Manual Mode or Semi-Automatic) When to Use: For manual control of gear shifting, such as on hills or when overtaking. Function: + (Plus): Shift to a higher gear. – (Minus): Shift to a lower gear. Tip: Ideal for engine braking and maintaining lower gears when necessary.

What is the plus and minus on an automatic car?

Pushing the gearshift lever in that direction locks it into manual mode until the driver pushes it back into drive. Once in manual mode, look for the plus and minus (+/-) icons. Tapping the shift lever toward the plus icon upshifts a gear. Tapping it toward the minus icon downshifts a gear.