Hello all, I'm hoping this isn't a stupid question, LOL, and I tried to search if this has already been asked but while I'm driving I often switch to Sport mode from Drive when I need that burst of speed typically when passing someone. I know I can use the paddle shifters but I prefer to just switch to Sport instead.

Is this bad for the auto transmission? I thought it shouldn't be as it's just a modification of the gears but I'm not auto expert.

Any input would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you,

Mark

 

Its totally fine to switch between D and S. The electronics take care of it, and basically just tells the transmission to allow you to do the shifting.

 

Thanks Advancedbo! I didn't think it would harm it and I love the transition. Like some other member said, I use the D for granny driving and S when I wanna have fun.

Funny I miss Manual transmissions but I can't seem to really embrace the paddle shifters. Just gotta get used to it I suppose.

Thanks again

 

Good luck with your TL, and you should have no issues switching between Drive & Sport mode..

You'll get used to the paddles but don't expect it to fill your manual addiction because it won't. I mean the paddles are fun at times but it will not replace the feeling of rowing gears.

I had a manual in a few of my other cars over the years and there is nothing like it. But due to the constant and increasing traffic where I drive (even on weekends ). Add to that some knee issues and it just made more sense for me to have AT's in my cars..

But man I do miss driving a manual..

 

I drop from D to S when going to pass. It drops downshifts according to need for you.

 

One thing to add, is it bad to paddle shift while in drive mode?

 

^no, why would it be?
as explained, the computer does everything and has control and wont let you fuck up

 

Not a stupid question. I'm just repeating what is already said above
It's no problem switching between D-S.
It's no problem using paddle shifters in D.

Electronics transmission controls have come a long way.

All Sports mode does is allow to you maintain higher RPM's before shifting and if your at highway speed it will downshift. The paddles add further gear control to the driver especially in S. For certain passing situations or heavy braking I will drop from D to S...once I feel the first downshift usually to 3rd gear and use paddle to downshift to 2nd.