Paddle shift questions
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Instructor
Joined: Mar 2020
Posts: 174
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Paddle shift questions
Please excuse my ignorance. My C5 auto didn't have the paddles or my C6 being a stick. l haven't tried using the paddles on my '19 before l ask. #1 do l need to release the gas pedal before the shift? #2 not to race or track but what is the RPM for the smoothest shift? #3 is it better to let it shift down on it's own or paddle down it myself and what's a safe RPM? If you have any helpful tips l would appreciate it. Thank you all.
Pro
Joined: May 2021
Posts: 500
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From: Queen Creek, AZ
Drifting
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,843
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From: Lagrange KY
Please excuse my ignorance. My C5 auto didn't have the paddles or my C6 being a stick. l haven't tried using the paddles on my '19 before l ask. #1 do l need to release the gas pedal before the shift? #2 not to race or track but what is the RPM for the smoothest shift? #3 is it better to let it shift down on it's own or paddle down it myself and what's a safe RPM? If you have any helpful tips l would appreciate it. Thank you all.
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Have fun with the paddle shifters. They can be fun and make the car sound pretty good.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2022
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From: Phoenix, Arizona
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they a lot of fun but i still haven't figured out from a stop (only drops to 2nd gear), making a 90 degree turn, of how to upshift, when the wheel is turned, my fingers aren't on the paddles but i'll keep working on it!!
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2022
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From: Phoenix, Arizona
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Pro
Joined: May 2021
Posts: 500
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From: Queen Creek, AZ
Paddle extensions are the way to go. I've had a set in the past and they made shifting much easier. My only criticism of paddle extensions is that the lower extensions tend interfere with the volume and channel selection tabs on the steering wheel. I frequently use the steering wheel tabs to change stations or alter the radio volume. In doing so, occasionally, I would inadvertently hit the lower shift tab. Sometimes the system would ignore the accidental shift request and sometimes it wouldn't, but it always caused me to focus on the tabs and not the road. It's not a deal breaker but it is something to consider. As far as shifting in turns, if you slow down your shifting process, eventually muscle memory will take over and you will be shifting quickly without even realizing it. Practice, practice, practice.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2019
Posts: 5,391
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From: Loveland
I have been through a few different shifting methods with my 2014 A6. At first I just used it in auto mode, then it was more fun to paddle shift. I started paddle shifting aggressively up and down through the gears. Then I started reading about the torque tube issues. I figure hitting the gears up, then bang the down shift probably isn't doing the drivetrain any good. Now I am using the manual mode 99% of the time. Two issues this helps with. 1. You will shift about 1/2 as many times in manual than in auto. 2. I can control when to shift. If I am just driving in town I don't go much over 3500 rpm's and rarely go above 4th. I down shift a bit above 1000 rpm's and can tell it isn't putting stain on the trans. I have just started leaving it in second, if I know I am not going to need a fast start. Of course there are the times I drive it like a Corvette but no need to beat the car all the time..
I also got the fake carbon fiber shifter extensions.
I also got the fake carbon fiber shifter extensions.