How to Use Paddle Shifters

Paddle shifters are a feature that’s standard or available on many vehicles, but have you ever wondered why they’re there or what they’re for? We get this question a lot from drivers from Orlando to Winter Park, so today we’re providing the answers.

What Are Paddle Shifters?

Paddle shifters are often found on sportier vehicles and trim levels because they allow drivers to switch gears quickly. They’re usually located behind or near the steering wheel, and 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 and the gear shifts.

Paddle shifters are easy to use, and they offer more control to help you manage your RPMs better. With correct downshifting, you can even extend the life of your brake pads by using paddle shifters.

How to Use Paddle Shifters

While driving a car equipped with paddle shifters, you’ll want to enter manual mode. This puts you in full control to paddle shift. The right paddle upshifts and the left paddle downshifts, and you can easily switch gears manually as you drive around Windermere.

Don’t worry about harming your vehicle when shifting gears, as the paddle shifters won’t 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

Maserati Models with Standard or Available Paddle Shifters:

Learn More About Paddle Shifters at Maserati of Central Florida

To learn more about how to use paddle shifters or to explore vehicles with paddles in person, contact us to set up an appointment, or simply stop by when it’s convenient. Our sales team will be happy to show you the available vehicles, and our finance team can provide finance or lease options.