How do you use the paddle shifter on a Dodge Durango?

How to Use Paddle Shifters on a Dodge Durango
Paddle shifters are a feature found on many Dodge vehicles, including the Dodge Durango, that allow drivers to manually shift gears even if the vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission. Here’s how you can use the paddle shifters on a Dodge Durango:
1. Locate the Paddle Shifters: Paddle shifters are typically located on the steering wheel, behind the left and right sides of the wheel. They are usually mounted on the back of the steering wheel, within easy reach of the driver’s fingers.
2. Understand the Function: Paddle shifters allow you to manually shift gears without using a clutch pedal. When you pull the left paddle, it downshifts to a lower gear, and when you pull the right paddle, it upshifts to a higher gear.
3. Activate Manual Mode: To use the paddle shifters, you need to activate the manual mode of the transmission. This can usually be done by moving the gear selector into the “M” or “Manual” position. Once in manual mode, you can use the paddle shifters to control the gear changes.
4. Shifting Gears: When driving in manual mode, you can use the paddle shifters to shift gears up or down. Pull the right paddle (+) to upshift to a higher gear, and pull the left paddle (-) to downshift to a lower gear. Each pull of the paddle will change the gear by one increment.
5. Returning to Automatic Mode: If you want to switch back to automatic mode, you can do so by either holding the “+” paddle for a second or two or by turning the shifter dial to neutral and then back to drive .
It’s important to note that paddle shifters are not necessary for everyday driving and are typically used in situations where manual control over gear selection is desired, such as during spirited driving or when towing heavy loads. Additionally, some drivers may find it more convenient to use the gear selector for manual shifting instead of the paddle shifters.
Remember to always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on using the paddle shifters, as the exact functionality may vary depending on the model and year of your Dodge Durango.

How do you use paddle shifters effectively?

With the gear selector in Drive, squeeze the paddle toward you with your fingertips for either a downshift or an upshift. On most cars, the paddles are always active. In some cars, the shifter has to be slid into manual mode first, or there will be a button.

How do you turn off the paddle shifter on a Dodge Durango?

Go into settings scroll down to safety and driving assistance. And there you have your paddle shifters enabled or disabled. I keep mine enabled. And I’ll tell you why in another video.

What is the best way to use a paddle shifter?

It’s pretty simple: Pulling the right paddle will upshift to a higher gear. Flicking the left paddle downshifts the transmission to a lower gear. Beyond that, each manufacturer does things a little differently, so you’ll want to read your vehicle’s owner’s manual if you intend to use the paddle shifters extensively.

How do you use a paddle shifter for beginners?

Mode. If a paddle shifter is used when Drive is selected manual shifting mode is temporarily engaged. This is especially useful to increase engine braking with a downshifter two when going downhill.

When should I shift with paddle shifters?

When to use paddle shifters depends on several factors, such as road conditions, traffic density, and even the weather. However, there is a general rule of thumb for beginners. When driving paddle shifters, look to shift when the rev counter needle falls between 1,500 and 2,500 RPM.

How do you switch from paddle shifter to automatic?

To change back to automatic shift mode from manual shift mode, do one of the followings:

1. Pull the [+] paddle shifter for more than one second.
2. Move the shift lever from D (Drive) to manual gate and return it to D position again.

Can you use paddle shifter all the time?

On most cars, the paddles are always active. In some cars, the shifter has to be slid into manual mode first, or there will be a button.

When should you use paddle shifters?

A driver can use paddle shifters to keep the engine revs at a more optimal level when entering a corner, or to wind up the revs higher when they need more power before upshifting.

How do you use a Durango paddle shifter?

Experience. So that’s how easy it is and if for some reason you want it disabled. Just go back to vehicle scroll to safety and driving assistance followed by disable or enable whichever you prefer.

What are the controls on a paddle shifter?

Paddle shifters are pretty simple to use: all you have to do is press or push the paddle to put the car in manual mode. The right paddle marked with a “+” is used to upshift while the left paddle marked with a “-” is used to downshift.