What is the plus and minus on gear shift Ford Escape?
The plus and minus symbols on the gear shift of a Ford Escape refer to the manual mode of the vehicle's transmission. This feature allows the driver to manually control the gear changes, providing more control over the driving experience.
What is the Plus and Minus on the Gear Shift?
The plus and minus symbols on the gear shift of a Ford Escape are part of the vehicle's manual mode, also known as the "manual shift" or "manumatic" feature. This mode allows the driver to manually select the gear they want the transmission to be in, rather than relying on the automatic transmission to shift gears on its own.
- Plus (+): Pressing the "+" button or pushing the gear shift up will shift the transmission to a higher gear, providing more power and acceleration.
- Minus (-): Pressing the "-" button or pulling the gear shift down will shift the transmission to a lower gear, providing more engine braking and control when descending hills or navigating winding roads.
When the manual mode is engaged, the driver can use the plus and minus buttons or the gear shift to change gears as needed, rather than letting the automatic transmission handle the gear changes. This can be useful in certain driving situations, such as when towing a heavy load, driving in hilly terrain, or wanting more control over the vehicle's performance.
Benefits of Using the Manual Mode
The manual mode on the Ford Escape's gear shift can provide several benefits to the driver, including:
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: By manually selecting the appropriate gear, the driver can keep the engine operating in its most efficient rpm range, potentially improving fuel economy.
- Enhanced Performance: The manual mode allows the driver to hold a lower gear for better acceleration or engine braking, providing more control over the vehicle's performance.
- Better Control in Challenging Conditions: When driving in hilly terrain, towing a heavy load, or navigating winding roads, the manual mode can give the driver more control over the vehicle's behavior.
It's important to note that the manual mode should be used judiciously, as leaving the transmission in a lower gear for too long can cause the engine to rev too high, leading to increased fuel consumption and potential damage.
