What is the M on the gear shift on a Chevy Trax?

The M on the Chevy Trax gear shift indicates Manual mode, a manual shifting option within the automatic transmission that lets you select gears manually for more control.

In practice, this mode is useful for engine braking on hills, controlled acceleration in slippery conditions, or when you want to hold a specific gear for performance or towing considerations. It is not a separate manual transmission; if you don’t manually shift, the transmission will revert to automatic shifting.

What manual mode does in the Trax

Manual mode provides temporary, driver-initiated control over gear selection without a clutch pedal. It’s designed to give you more precise control in certain driving situations while still operating within an automatic transmission.

• Engage manual mode by moving the shift lever from D into the M position (the exact motion may vary slightly by model year, often by shifting the lever to the right into the M gate).


• Shift gears manually using the available mechanism (typically a +/- on the shifter or steering wheel controls) to upshift or downshift as needed.


• Return to fully automatic shifting by moving the lever back to D (Drive) or leaving the M mode if the system auto-switches back after a short period or certain conditions are met.

Manual mode in the Trax is a temporary driver-assist to tailor gear selection; it does not transform the vehicle into a true manual transmission.

How to use M mode in practice

Before engaging, understand that M mode is intended for greater control rather than everyday driving. Use it when you want engine braking, better control on grades, or when you’re seeking precise power delivery.

• With the vehicle in Drive, shift the lever to the M gate to enter manual mode.


• Use the +/- options (or equivalent steering-wheel controls) to select the desired gear up or down.


• To resume normal automatic shifting, shift the lever back to the D position or allow the system to reinitialize to automatic mode as designed for your model year.

Practice caution: avoid high RPMs or aggressive shifts in slick conditions, and remember that the engine and transmission still have safety safeguards to prevent over-revving or damage.

Tips for using M mode safely

Keep shifts smooth, anticipate terrain, and monitor the tachometer to avoid redlining. Use M mode primarily on inclines, for engine braking, or when you need to maintain a specific speed in challenging conditions.

Limitations to know

Manual mode is not a substitute for a true manual transmission. There is no clutch pedal in this mode, and the system may automatically downshift or upshift to protect the engine and driveline. It’s best used as a temporary tool rather than a persistent driving mode for everyday city commuting.

In summary, the M on the Chevy Trax gear shift stands for Manual mode, granting you temporary, driver-led gear selection within the automatic transmission. It offers more control in certain conditions while remaining integrated with the vehicle’s automatic safeguards.

Summary: The M mode on the Chevy Trax is manual shifting within an automatic transmission. Engage it to manually pick gears for better control on hills or in slippery conditions, then return to automatic when you’re done.

What does the M mean on my gear shift?

"M" on a gear shift means Manual mode, which gives the driver control to manually shift gears instead of the car's automatic transmission. You can typically shift up or down using the gear selector or paddle shifters on the steering wheel. This mode is useful for situations like going up or down hills, using engine braking, or for more spirited driving.
 
How it works

• To activate: Shift from "D" (Drive) to "M" on the gear selector. 
• To change gears:
  • Push the selector forward or use a "+" button to upshift. 
  • Pull the selector back or use a "-" button to downshift. 
• Safety features: The car's computer will prevent you from downshifting if it would over-rev the engine, and it may automatically upshift for you to prevent damage. 

When to use it

• Hilly terrain: To maintain constant power and prevent the transmission from shifting awkwardly up and down on steep inclines. 
• Descending hills: To use the engine for a form of braking, which reduces wear on your brake pads and helps control your speed. 
• Towing or heavy loads: To have better control over power delivery and maximize torque when hauling a heavy load. 

What is M gear on Chevy Trax?

The "M" or Manual shift lever position can be used to step the transmission up or down through 7 pre-programmed gears manually. When you shift from "D" (Drive) to "M" (Manual), the shift indicator in the instrument panel will indicate the current gear.

What does the M stand for in a Chevy Trax?

The usage method of the M gear (manual mode) for the Chevrolet Trax is as follows: To enter manual mode, push the shift lever from the D position to the left to the M or S position.

When to use m gear automatic?

Use "M" (manual) mode in an automatic car for more control in specific situations, such as going downhill for engine braking, accelerating to overtake, driving on sporty roads, or towing heavy loads to prevent the transmission from shifting unexpectedly. It also provides more engagement for drivers who prefer to select their own gears, even if just temporarily.
 
This video demonstrates how to use manual mode in an automatic car, including shifting gears and using paddle shifters: 53sMick Drives CarsYouTube · May 14, 2023
When to use M mode

• Downhill driving: Select a lower gear to use the engine to help slow the car down, which reduces the reliance on your brakes and prevents them from overheating. 
• Overtaking and spirited driving: Use it to downshift for more power and to hold a gear for maximum acceleration when overtaking or enjoying a winding road. 
• Towing: Maintain a specific gear to prevent the transmission from shifting up and down repeatedly, which can cause overheating with heavy loads. 
• Tricky conditions: In situations like snow or ice, starting in a higher gear (if your car allows) can help improve traction. 

How to use M mode

• Engage manual mode: Shift the lever to the "M" or "S" position. In many cars, you can do this while in "D" (drive). 
• Shift gears: Use the paddle shifters on the steering wheel or move the gear lever forward or backward (often a "plus" and "minus" indicator is shown on the dash) to upshift or downshift. 
• Be mindful of the car's limits: The car will often prevent you from making a shift that would over-rev the engine, but it's best to keep an eye on the tachometer to avoid the rev limiter. 
• Return to automatic mode: When finished, shift the gear lever back to the "D" position to return to normal automatic operation. 

This video explains when and why to use manual mode in an automatic car, including tips for different driving scenarios: 58sDanger IndustriesYouTube · Jun 17, 2020