To clarify, using gears while going downhill is not to prevent wear on the brakes. It’s to avoid overheating the breaks which causes break failure (extremely dangerous). Downshifting is great for going down a mountain but shouldn’t be used regularly just to avoid break usage - consider that downshifting will put additional strain on the engine and especially the transmission. Breaks are easily replaced, transmission not so much.
Good point. But in the beginning of your message you spelled brakes correctly. After that it morphed into “breaks”. That’s what happens to glass when you drop it :)
Gears (“gearbox”) manage the descent in conjunction with the engine and brakes. That’s the correct way to moderate brake usage and mitigate brake fade.
Brilliant. I didn’t know it worked in DRIVE mode. A perfect solution for on-ramp acceleration without having to switch over to manual paddle shifter mode. Thanks for that insight, Alex. I always learn something from your videos. Keep them coming.
Another key feature of paddle shifters is to put the car in manual mode and before you start out in first, shift up to second to pull out, this will make it easier to get unstuck. Ask me how I know. 😆
I have been very concerned about not being able to buy a manual transmission and did not know how I would go with "paddles", they sound ridiculous! However, thank you very much to this video, you have demythdefied them for me and I am less concerned about having to drive my brand new Outback home through the city in peak hour traffic. I found your demonstration very clear and concise so thank you.
Thank you, I never really understood those paddles and your video clears up that mystery for me. I once used manual transmissions ("stick shift") back in the 1980s. There was an attitude back then that using stick shift was a sign of being a skilled driver. I think driving in a safe, courteous way is by far the greater sign of the skilled driver. I stopped using stick and purchased a brand new car with automatic so that my girlfriend could drive the car too. This was way back in the 1990s. I never looked at stick shift again. If the engine has enough power, then a modern automatic transmission ought to be the best option. To me, the 2.5 liter engine in my Forester Touring has really strong acceleration, I have never felt there was a lack of passing power.
Once again, thank you for this video tutorial. I drove vehicles with manual transmission for 35 years. Now, I own a 2021 automatic transmission Crosstrek sport. I miss not driving manual transmission, but now I feel comfortable using the paddle shifters in my Crosstrek.
Excellent. I've had other cars with paddle shift auto transmissions, like Mercedes and Mini, but when I got the Crosstrek my first thought was "why do you need paddles with a dang CVT??" Now that I'm a little more educated with the Subaru tech, I'm of the opinion that this is one of the best engineered drive trains out there. Once again you've saved me about 15 minutes of paging through the manuals. Thanks.
I will let u on my secret, i CONSTANTLY USED the pedals to down or up shift SAFELY my outback rather than brake, till I get too close to car in front. With 197000 miles on my Outback, so far I changed the brakes only once at 140k! Of course MY HABIT is always to keep extra distance in front of me.
I took delivery of my '22 Outback last December. It's got just short of 5000 miles so far. I really like having the paddle shifters but they are not something I use very often. One, I don't live in a mountainous area so I don't have much of a need for engine braking and while I do like being able to force a lower ratio in anticipation of whatever may be coming, I've found that I don't really need to do it. One aspect of my cars CVT that I'm very pleased with is just how fast it will "down shift" when needed. I've driven several CVT equipped vehicles over the years but none of them would change drive ratios as fast as my Outback does, especially when downshifting to pass or merge in to traffic. Leave it in drive, step down on it, and the revs pop right up. One other advantage of that is, the "rubber band" effect that some CVT's are known for isn't nearly as pronounced on my Outback. It makes the driving experience more satisfying in my opinion.
This makes so much sense, thanks for the explanation! I used to drive my dads civic that had cvt but it would always jerk when I let off the gas after accelerating quickly, but my new impreza feels infinitely smoother when accelerating and letting off the gas at higher speeds.
Being able to downshift and engine brake between 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gear is way better than the dinky L mode on Subarus without paddle shifters. Definitely helps save wear and tear on brakes in mountainous terrain. For anyone who has driven up to Mount Washington in NH (or any other peak), you'll know this since the bottom 1/2 reeks of burning brakes.
i've watched lots of your postings since i picked up my brand new outback 2 days ago. never realized paddle shifters would be so beneficial for me when i drive home from peak of a mountain with 2 miles of downhill. i cant say i am an expert now in 2 days but i have learned so much from you (my previous outback is a 2000 model. still loving it)
I was talking to my son yesterday who was learning to drive the new Subaru for the 1st time as he was asking what is M about. I didn't know and was also wondering what the paddles were by the steering wheel. I am also glad I have several years experience driving a standard so those concepts are easy for me to understand.
When I test drove the Crosstrek, I tried out the paddle shifters from standing start and while in motion. The smooth transition of the "manual" shifting is one of the reasons I was impressed and felt comfortable with the CVT and decided to put the Crosstrek at the top of my list of possible purchases. (Spoiler alert! I have enjoyed my Subaru Crosstrek since July of 2021 and I'm glad of my choice!) Thanks for another great video!
What a great video; the only one I've seen that actually explains paddle shifter functions and how to use them. Until now, I thought they were totally useless for a CVT transmission. By the way, nice meeting you yesterday at the dealership; thanks for the continued Outback education.
@@garyoneill8868 Not quite. Leaving the CVT in drive will have it in its most optimal and fastest state, just floor it in S mode if you want to go fast. Manual shifting will make it slower.
I've used the paddle shifters in both manual and auto mode for 4 years now, mostly for overtaking on the highway. The engine (or, more likely the EMS) is sh1thouse for overtaking unless you already have a "run" at the other car. Overtaking from the same speed as a car/s in front is almost hopeless and makes the car appear gutless in Auto mode. Using paddles correctly makes the overtake very quick and much safer. Fwiw, I would not use the the paddles to "engine brake". Brakes are cheap, transmissions are VERY expensive. Good video though.
The CVT should be faster if you leave it in drive, especially if you have sport mode. Power bands that you're used to do not apply to CVTs. (Going close to redline will NOT make the car faster, might even make it slower)
The simulated gears on my Crosstrek work fine, especially going down hills when 3rd will keep it perfectly at 30mph. The only thing I do not like is the Auto can select 6th gear at certain speeds where the manual will not let you.
No one ever mentions putting the car into Sport mode to help with overtakes. I live in the highlands of Scotland where roads are twisty and overtaking opportunities rare. I just pop it into sport, use the paddle to “down shift “ and away it goes. No issues at all.
@@robbrownfield7677 Ah, I understand what you mean. But for me in my 24 crosstrek if it’s in sport mode there is almost no delay when you floor it, it just kicks straight up. Also, when you use manual shifting you’re sacrificing some speed, unless of course it goes back to D in like two seconds. Cvts have weird power bands, so you technically don’t have to “Get the revs up”, it should be at the best power band in drive. I think cvts pull the hardest around 3-4k rpm but don’t quote me on that, that’s just my experience.
@@robbrownfield7677 From what it sounds like, you’re describing more of a normal automatic, where yes, there’s a noticeable delay when you need to wait for the car to downshift and downshifting in advance will get your revs up to the best power band so you can go the fastest. Are you sure your car is a cvt?
@@quandale2648 now that’s an interesting question. It’s a 23 plate Outback, previous car was a 19 Outback, both with CVT, previous to that I have had a 2005 Outback with an auto box. So yes, I am sure it’s a CVT 🤔😊
Been driving a stick manual for years and always been wondering how to use this paddle shifter on my OB. Thanks for the video. Now I know I can switch it on the fly without damaging the engine.😄
I have an outback and here are a couple of things to note, I believe the engine does have a rev limiter on it, next the cruise control does not work when using the paddle shifters. I use mine mostly for braking if I need to slow or stop while going down a hill. Of course there is always the fun factor for those times you just feel like shifting instead of letting the transmission give you that smooth acceleration. Thanks for posting.
Thank you for your insights. 2000 rpm is enough to get to the next gear if you want to maximize your mpg. Going uphill is a different story tho. And also you can still shift manually in D mode
Thank you for making this instructional/exemplar video! I used to have a Subaru Forester that had Sport mode and someone taught me a bit about how it shifted gears, but got a different Subaru with the paddles and been confused how to use them/how to use Manual mode as I embark on more adventures/going to mountains and now can use these examples to assist with on-ramp merging on the highway!
Also, downshifting to make the car go "faster" doesn't really work on these CVT's, leaving it in drive will always be faster just because of how these CVTs are created and how they're made to work, I'm guessing because they have a very strange power band that is early in the revs opposed to normal transmission cars that push more power the more the engine revs (In which case yes, downshifting will help). I have tested this in my '24 crosstrek, and overall the simulated shifting seems gimmicky, with its only real purpose (that I find myself doing often) is spamming the downshift button a few times when coming up to a stop or a red light and having the car engine brake really well. (I even feel that the CVT engine brakes even better than a traditional automatic, so that's a plus) I really appreciate this video though, its really informative, thanks Alex.
CVTs are always in the "optimal gear for the amount of power and speed needed", so leaving it in drive to do its thing will have the car at its most fastest and efficient mode, hence I called the shifting "gimmicky". Using the simulated gears will only make the car less efficient and slower, kind of defeating the purpose of the CVT. As someone who drives manual and loves to hear the sounds of gears banging, the CVT is just god awful when it comes to the simulated shifts and the car is way more enjoyable in normal drive.
On the other hand, normal automatics' or DCTs' manual modes just allow for manual controlling of what the transmission already does, which, yes, does give you more control of the car and makes the driving experience more fun. For CVT's, think of the manual mode as making the transmission switch over and do an entire different thing, which also make the mechanics of it worse. So... pointless. (besides engine braking mwhaha) I know I seem crazy talking to myself in the comments 😂😂
Informative for those who weren't aware. However, i definitely would not say reviving to redline will seize up engine. Anything above 75% throttle will take it above 5,000 in D. Full throttle is D will redline it. If maintained properly it definitely will not damage engine.
Hi Alex, We get between 4-5 feet of snow every winter. The paddle shifters are Awesome when you need to slow down on snowy or icy roads. There’s less chance of “breaking traction “ by applying the brakes vs using the paddles to “downshift” or slow the car down. We live in the mountains and there’s a lot of “S” curves. Even on dry pavement, a few corners you have to get down to 20-25 mph. I told a neighbor about it and now they use the paddles on their Crosstrek. He told me that he has better control in their Subie when they use the paddles as well.
Great tutorial, Alex. You have some tips not included in the Crosstrek manual. I'm a first-time Subaru buyer, and your videos helped me quickly get up to speed on my new Crosstrek Sport. Thanks!
2019 Crosstrek here- I love the shifters esp living in Chicago with all our ice and snow, but in heavy traffic it’s not great as many folks can attest to. I use it on the highway to maximize mpg when not using cruise control, and in bad weather for the awesome combo of AWD and engine braking in M mode. Had no idea how to use them until I accidentally bumped my shifter to the left and couldn’t figure out WTF was wrong with my car! Lol now I can’t live without them. Thanks for another great vid!
I just bought my new 2022 Crosstrek and have not really used the paddle shifters yet. This video game me confidence in working them, especially in slowing the vehicle using engine compression while going down long hills and not having to ride the brakes. I am headed to the Rocky Mountains in a few weeks and I KNOW I will need to do this during all those numerous long downhill runs on I-70. No more brake jobs needed after going through the Sierra or Rocky Mountains!!! THANK YOU!
2 года назад+5
This is great, thanks! Just bought my first Subaru, it's coming in about 10 days and I'm trying to get as many tips as possible.
As a previous Stick-Shifter, I always thought the paddle shifters on auto transmissions was a big waste. Your video helped me see how useful they can be. I have a 22 Outback Wilderness, and one of my biggest complaints is how the transmission seems to falter when braking hard, and then accelerating. Using the paddle shifters might just be the ticket!! Thanks
Thank you so much for this video. I have not used this feature in my Outback before, tho I knew it was there. But I had not reviewed the manual. I do live in a snowy area and I also travel to hilly, mountainous terrain. So your explanations are wonderful. Thanks again for teaching me so much, so I can maximize the features in my vehicle.!!!!
TY … I’ve used Paddle Shifters since my ‘16 Outback. But only in the saving brakes down hills mode. I’ve never driven standard so couldn’t understand the acceleration concept. I will watch this again but I better understand it now. And to watch that it’s between 3-4 reeves. Recently, I did start to move the gear shift into “M”, before just used the paddles. Even though I’ve driven Outback’s for 12 years, your videos are very helpful.
I think brakes are lower cost then a cvt. Subaru had to replace my mom's at 49k in her 2014 outback. I would down shift it like a truck doing down hill.
Awesome overview. I just got a 2023 Wilderness, and have experience driving manual transmission. It’s nice that I can utilize this vehicle in the same ways as a normal manual transmission (traffic scenarios, acceleration purposes, etc.)
Thank you very much for the information, I did not know what the seller was used for, I did not explain many things about this incredible car, thank you
dude. thank you so much for making so much videos about the Subaru even tho i have the premium legacy . still works the same. Just got mines today and i've been bench watching all your videos lol
Thank you for creating this video. I've wanted to know how to use these paddle shifters for a while though I don't own a Subaru. While I do not own a Subaru, if I ever get enough money to invest in one, I will certainly reconsider buying one. Of the one Impreza 4-door sedan and the one Outback I drove and other Subarus I've sat in, I've certainly admired them from up close and afar. Living in Maryland near Washington DC doesn't give us much snow these days, but we do get it sometimes including icy rain and black ice. I would like something with a bit more heft and more road traction than my Toyota Corolla. My Corolla is a very practical, low cost, easy to drive, and serviceable vehicle, but "fun" is hardly what I'd describe it to be. Honestly, these Subarus really need to have places all around the country where you can learn to maximize all the benefits of driving them in all sorts of weather and driving conditions so one can learn all the gadgets and gizmos they offer.
Some have said that engine breaking with CVT is not good for the transmission. Can you share any information about that? How often is too much engine breaking?
i dunno man, i RAPED my subaru xv with the low gear, i drove about 210000km, and nothing happend to gear, now i have forester, hoping for the same, these are pretty reliable gear and engine
Engine braking in a cvt will do the same as in any car, just bring the revs up. You can google if engine braking it bad for your car, but most people usually say no
Thank you for this information. Two questions. One. When needing to accelerate quickly, Do you just press the downshift paddle once for acceleration or are you pressing it multiple times?. I could not tell in the video. 2. Can you /should you use the downshift paddle for going up a steep hill/mountain? 3. What’s an example of when you would use the right side paddle? TIA
Horsepower and torque- downshift increases RPM - its tons of fun in the snow- it’s sequential shifting like a motorcycle - in the MBenz shifting was not sequential doesn’t have the race car feel.
The older paddles (2012 I believe) will automatically downshift based on engine speed etc. The newer ones act like real manual transmission. It will stay on the same gear even while braking to a stop until u shift down! 😅
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I’ve been wondering how/when/why and really didn’t want to invest time to reading the Subaru “bible“ because I’d rather be driving it! 😘. You saved a lot of us A TON of time
Thanks for this video. The dealership just gives you the vehicle and never tells you anything. Reading the manual is cool, but seeing it hands on is great! Love this video! ♥️
Thanks for tackling the paddle shifters topic. In the olden days, we called the RPM gauge a tachometer. Are the manual transmission 2024 WRX's encumbered with Auto Stop-Start?
Just found you as I couldn’t figure out downshifting. I’m living in a mountainous area right now taking care of my 80+ parents. I bought my Outback in May of 2020. I got no tutorial on how to drive it. I went from a 2002 SUV to to this and boy was there a lot to learn! Since the pandemic I haven’t driven much. All working from home. Mileage is close to flipping to 6000. 😂. One question what’s the button for on the gear shift?
Same thing happened to me, went from a 2000 Chevy S10 to a 2017 Subaru Legacy 3.2r. Didn't show me anything and now I am RUclips. lol Learning.... Talk about night and day.
If you mean the button that you squeeze when using the gear shift, that's just an unlock mechanism you need to press to switch through some of the gears (Except N D and R -> P I believe) Its basically like needing to press the brake, just another step. Older cars usually didn't have it
Thanks! Most people may never use it and so I find that a lot of salespeople don't cover this. But it's nice to know if you ever accidentally put your Subaru in manual mode
if you're going down a long downhill stretch, as per my local subaru dealer, the *cruise control* will put the CVT at the correct ration to hold you speed. Using the paddle shifters makes you select one of 7 pre-selected [imaginary] ratios. Use the cruise for this. Plus, if it gets out of control (haven't seen this yet, not even crossing the Rockies) it will apply the brakes as needed. Question: does using the paddles ever *not* disengage the cruise control?
I prefer to use the transmission to shift to allow for one-hand shifting. Basically once you put the transmission in the M-mode, you push it to the left to engage the manual mode, as which you either push up or down to shift using just the right hand. Using the paddle shifter, you need both hands to shift.
consdiering its just sending an electronic signal to the CVT, I would have also appreciated if the option for a 'sequential' style shift from the gear lever and the wheel paddles were both options
Very helpful video on the paddle shifters. Just curious as to whether you can keep your foot on accelerator whole you're shifting. Also just to confirm - when getting on the highway you shifted DOWN to increase RPM ??? And where can I cat one of those nice SUBARU pullovers :)
I have found that the CVT Legacy gets worse fuel economy than my 4EAT Box on wheels Forester on the highway in hilly country because it down shifts. This can be drastically improved by putting it in manual mode and upshifting.
Hi Alex, I have a 2025 OB Premium that I tried out the paddle shifters for the first time this weekend to downshift on a steep, narrow winding road. Unlike the Toyota paddle shifters that I'm familiar with, the OB's downshift (-) paddle seems to downshift two "gears" while in Drive versus one gear like Toyota. I was doing about 35 mph when I "downshifted" once with the paddle and the RPM's jumped up to over 4000, which seemed excessive and I immediately engaged the (+} paddle to upshift and drop the RPM's. I plan on trips out west where there are long switchbacks coming down passes. As I mentioned, the Toyotas I've driven the past 14-15 years seem to inclemently downshift one gear per paddle application....similar to downshifting a manual transmission. Thank you for any advice you can offer.
I realize that they added simulated gears to make people like the behavior better. But I wish you could just switch that mode off and get the most efficient gearless mode the CVT is capable of. And yes, whether in manual or auto mode, the paddle shifters are useful. Most of the time I use them in the auto mode, anticipating need in a few seconds, or knowing I will be accellerating or slowing down. And I don't have to worry about being in the wrong gear because after a few moments it just starts doing it's own thing again. I would only use manual mode for offroad situations mostly to limit upshifting. Databyter
Two comments: Does the CVT not downshift for you when you accelerate as on an on-ramp? Maybe it's my '23 turbo (Outback Onyx), but I haven't seen a need for paddle downshifting. Did you mention that paddle downshifting places you in a different gear relative to your speed? Downshifting at higher speeds places me in [6] (as shown on the dash); from a lower speed, the paddle may put me in [5], or [4], etc. And from those, I can also downshift further - a very useful feature coming down our Colorado mountain roads.
Our 2024 Outback comes with this feature called XMode. Do you know much about that? It sounds like it does many of the features you described automatically versus you doing them manually. Or an I wrong?
I love this section of just bought a brand new Crosstrek and I'm practicing with a paddle shifters right now. I noticed that you shifted down not up when you were merging into the highway traffic. Wouldn't that caused you to slow down? Don't you want a paddle shift up to speed up? Also do you have to be in sport mode or intelligent drive mode or does it matter? Thank you for these super wonderful informative videos I'm learning so much about my brand new Subie! ❤❤❤❤
I just got a new Out Back and redlined it out of the dealership. Luckily my car is still fine but i’m sticking to drive mode and no paddle shifter usage for now >.
Great video...thanks. Just bought a 2024 Outback and I plan on driving in snowy conditions. Do you use the paddle shifters when using x mode or not necessary? Still learning about my car.
Please can you give updates on what changes have been done by Subaru to decrease technology malfunctions after 3 years warranty? Just got my Outback 2022 and I heard/read people who got it in 2019/20/21 got some expensive fixes! Please details about Subaru of America! They tried to sell me the warranty extension since they are aware of their current issues/challenges with new technology that actually controls the entire car
@Alex - what Subaru is this that you're driving? I'm wondering if this is the Limited with the black leather interior? We're trying to decide between the black and the gray interior, and can't find any locally to look at! So, we would love a video where you go over the interior cloth and leather color choices!
Quick question... At about the 5:09 mark in your video, there is a chime almost sounds like a doorbell, what is it? I have recently been driving a 2019 Legacy Limited and hear that same chime at random places and random times while driving. Very helpful videos!
My wife drives our 2020 Ascent, unless I am mistaken, the shift knob has D and L to the left of D.. There is no Manual mode, unless I am losing my mind. I am curious as to how to use the paddle shifters if you don't have manual mode and you want to keep the car in a downshifted gear? For example, if I want to use the paddles to put the car in a lower "gear" for descending a steep hill, What prevents the car from upshifting if I don't want it to, lets say I hit a plateau for a bit and need to give it gas, or I tap on the gas by mistake during the descent? Regarding the latter, would I have to press the accelerator down far enough to "match revs" with the engine's engine braking RPM in order for it to release the selected "gear"? Thanks for the video!
I just purchased a 2022 Forester. I live in VA, where we have lots of mountains. Should hit the - button to shift down when going down a steep incline to save using the breaks?
![Hunxho - Ball Forever [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/nki9ZTF9Uls/mqdefault.jpg)
To clarify, using gears while going downhill is not to prevent wear on the brakes. It’s to avoid overheating the breaks which causes break failure (extremely dangerous). Downshifting is great for going down a mountain but shouldn’t be used regularly just to avoid break usage - consider that downshifting will put additional strain on the engine and especially the transmission. Breaks are easily replaced, transmission not so much.
Yup, Brakes are meant to stop your vehicle. Engines and transmission are supposed to move the vehicle forward.
Good point. But in the beginning of your message you spelled brakes correctly. After that it morphed into “breaks”. That’s what happens to glass when you drop it :)
Gears (“gearbox”) manage the descent in conjunction with the engine and brakes.
That’s the correct way to moderate brake usage and mitigate brake fade.
@@patmer2087 Always remember: brakes brake, transmissions break
Gads. I learn so much more than I think I’m going to from these videos!
Brilliant. I didn’t know it worked in DRIVE mode. A perfect solution for on-ramp acceleration without having to switch over to manual paddle shifter mode. Thanks for that insight, Alex. I always learn something from your videos. Keep them coming.
Happy to help! 😀
Same here - very cool!
Totally agree! What a great video to watch right before I drive my 2022 Outback over the Continental Divide next month!😁👍
Sweet!! I had no idea….now I know I can downshift my ‘22 WRX when I’m on the toll road and need to pass. THANK YOU!
I guess I should have read the manuals. With the 2.5L engine combined with the laggy CVT, this will make passing a lot easier.
Another key feature of paddle shifters is to put the car in manual mode and before you start out in first, shift up to second to pull out, this will make it easier to get unstuck. Ask me how I know. 😆
How do you know?
That’s a great point. Would help to start in a higher gear when stuck in snow!
It's also in the owners manual.
Lol experience is great teacher
@frankmartinez6880 how does he know??
2023. Truly Enjoy your instructional videos. Adds more Value to owning a Subaru.
Subie Love.
💙
Thank you for watching and I'm happy to hear you've found them helpful!
I have been very concerned about not being able to buy a manual transmission and did not know how I would go with "paddles", they sound ridiculous! However, thank you very much to this video, you have demythdefied them for me and I am less concerned about having to drive my brand new Outback home through the city in peak hour traffic. I found your demonstration very clear and concise so thank you.
Thank you, I never really understood those paddles and your video clears up that mystery for me. I once used manual transmissions ("stick shift") back in the 1980s. There was an attitude back then that using stick shift was a sign of being a skilled driver. I think driving in a safe, courteous way is by far the greater sign of the skilled driver. I stopped using stick and purchased a brand new car with automatic so that my girlfriend could drive the car too. This was way back in the 1990s. I never looked at stick shift again. If the engine has enough power, then a modern automatic transmission ought to be the best option. To me, the 2.5 liter engine in my Forester Touring has really strong acceleration, I have never felt there was a lack of passing power.
Once again, thank you for this video tutorial. I drove vehicles with manual transmission for 35 years. Now, I own a 2021 automatic transmission Crosstrek sport. I miss not driving manual transmission, but now I feel comfortable using the paddle shifters in my Crosstrek.
Excellent. I've had other cars with paddle shift auto transmissions, like Mercedes and Mini, but when I got the Crosstrek my first thought was "why do you need paddles with a dang CVT??" Now that I'm a little more educated with the Subaru tech, I'm of the opinion that this is one of the best engineered drive trains out there. Once again you've saved me about 15 minutes of paging through the manuals. Thanks.
Its really not useful besides engine braking since its a cvt..
I will let u on my secret, i CONSTANTLY USED the pedals to down or up shift SAFELY my outback rather than brake, till I get too close to car in front.
With 197000 miles on my Outback, so far I changed the brakes only once at 140k!
Of course MY HABIT is always to keep extra distance in front of me.
Yeah, spamming the left paddle when coming up to a red light is pretty relaxing and gives your foot a break.
I’m curious, how many times have you changed your transmission.. if any?
@MichelleNyxRaymond Never
I took delivery of my '22 Outback last December. It's got just short of 5000 miles so far. I really like having the paddle shifters but they are not something I use very often. One, I don't live in a mountainous area so I don't have much of a need for engine braking and while I do like being able to force a lower ratio in anticipation of whatever may be coming, I've found that I don't really need to do it. One aspect of my cars CVT that I'm very pleased with is just how fast it will "down shift" when needed. I've driven several CVT equipped vehicles over the years but none of them would change drive ratios as fast as my Outback does, especially when downshifting to pass or merge in to traffic. Leave it in drive, step down on it, and the revs pop right up. One other advantage of that is, the "rubber band" effect that some CVT's are known for isn't nearly as pronounced on my Outback. It makes the driving experience more satisfying in my opinion.
This makes so much sense, thanks for the explanation! I used to drive my dads civic that had cvt but it would always jerk when I let off the gas after accelerating quickly, but my new impreza feels infinitely smoother when accelerating and letting off the gas at higher speeds.
Being able to downshift and engine brake between 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gear is way better than the dinky L mode on Subarus without paddle shifters. Definitely helps save wear and tear on brakes in mountainous terrain. For anyone who has driven up to Mount Washington in NH (or any other peak), you'll know this since the bottom 1/2 reeks of burning brakes.
more worried on wear and tear on expensive transmission than replicable brakes
Ahh a fellow New Hampshire resident I see haha
never use a transmission as a brake silly
@@halvorson566 Us New Englanders love us some Subies! Grew up in New Hampshire myself, around the Conway area
i've watched lots of your postings since i picked up my brand new outback 2 days ago. never realized paddle shifters would be so beneficial for me when i drive home from peak of a mountain with 2 miles of downhill. i cant say i am an expert now in 2 days but i have learned so much from you (my previous outback is a 2000 model. still loving it)
Hey Margaret! Congrats on your new Outback! Glad to hear you're learning from my videos. Really appreciate you for checking them out.
I was talking to my son yesterday who was learning to drive the new Subaru for the 1st time as he was asking what is M about. I didn't know and was also wondering what the paddles were by the steering wheel. I am also glad I have several years experience driving a standard so those concepts are easy for me to understand.
The dealership never explained it?
@@iwannaseenow1 we bought a used 2015 Subaru Outback at an auction.
When I test drove the Crosstrek, I tried out the paddle shifters from standing start and while in motion. The smooth transition of the "manual" shifting is one of the reasons I was impressed and felt comfortable with the CVT and decided to put the Crosstrek at the top of my list of possible purchases. (Spoiler alert! I have enjoyed my Subaru Crosstrek since July of 2021 and I'm glad of my choice!) Thanks for another great video!
Are the paddle shifters on the base model?
What a great video; the only one I've seen that actually explains paddle shifter functions and how to use them. Until now, I thought they were totally useless for a CVT transmission. By the way, nice meeting you yesterday at the dealership; thanks for the continued Outback education.
Nice meeting you as well! Really appreciate you stopping in to say hi
The paddles are truly a fantastic driving aid, especially on the highway.
@@garyoneill8868 Not quite. Leaving the CVT in drive will have it in its most optimal and fastest state, just floor it in S mode if you want to go fast. Manual shifting will make it slower.
The paddle shifters are great in the snow for slowing down without applying the brakes.
For the snow, I felt like they don't help at all. For slowing down, I feel like that's the #1 best (and maybe only) use of them
I've used the paddle shifters in both manual and auto mode for 4 years now, mostly for overtaking on the highway. The engine (or, more likely the EMS) is sh1thouse for overtaking unless you already have a "run" at the other car. Overtaking from the same speed as a car/s in front is almost hopeless and makes the car appear gutless in Auto mode. Using paddles correctly makes the overtake very quick and much safer. Fwiw, I would not use the the paddles to "engine brake". Brakes are cheap, transmissions are VERY expensive. Good video though.
That was my first thought
The CVT should be faster if you leave it in drive, especially if you have sport mode. Power bands that you're used to do not apply to CVTs. (Going close to redline will NOT make the car faster, might even make it slower)
The simulated gears on my Crosstrek work fine, especially going down hills when 3rd will keep it perfectly at 30mph. The only thing I do not like is the Auto can select 6th gear at certain speeds where the manual will not let you.
The auto doesnt select any gear. It just goes back to proper CVT mode and makes the engine most optimal.
No one ever mentions putting the car into Sport mode to help with overtakes.
I live in the highlands of Scotland where roads are twisty and overtaking opportunities rare.
I just pop it into sport, use the paddle to “down shift “ and away it goes. No issues at all.
Dont use the paddle, it will be faster. This isn't a traditional automatic.
@@quandale2648 completely disagree. The delay when trying to overtake can be significant. I can use the paddle to get the revs up before I need them.
@@robbrownfield7677 Ah, I understand what you mean. But for me in my 24 crosstrek if it’s in sport mode there is almost no delay when you floor it, it just kicks straight up. Also, when you use manual shifting you’re sacrificing some speed, unless of course it goes back to D in like two seconds. Cvts have weird power bands, so you technically don’t have to “Get the revs up”, it should be at the best power band in drive. I think cvts pull the hardest around 3-4k rpm but don’t quote me on that, that’s just my experience.
@@robbrownfield7677 From what it sounds like, you’re describing more of a normal automatic, where yes, there’s a noticeable delay when you need to wait for the car to downshift and downshifting in advance will get your revs up to the best power band so you can go the fastest. Are you sure your car is a cvt?
@@quandale2648 now that’s an interesting question. It’s a 23 plate Outback, previous car was a 19 Outback, both with CVT, previous to that I have had a 2005 Outback with an auto box. So yes, I am sure it’s a CVT 🤔😊
Been driving a stick manual for years and always been wondering how to use this paddle shifter on my OB. Thanks for the video. Now I know I can switch it on the fly without damaging the engine.😄
I have an outback and here are a couple of things to note, I believe the engine does have a rev limiter on it, next the cruise control does not work when using the paddle shifters. I use mine mostly for braking if I need to slow or stop while going down a hill. Of course there is always the fun factor for those times you just feel like shifting instead of letting the transmission give you that smooth acceleration. Thanks for posting.
Thank you for your insights.
2000 rpm is enough to get to the next gear if you want to maximize your mpg. Going uphill is a different story tho.
And also you can still shift manually in D mode
I use the paddle shifters on my 2019 Outback without changing to manual mode. It seems to work fine. The CPU knows what to do.
Thank you for making this instructional/exemplar video! I used to have a Subaru Forester that had Sport mode and someone taught me a bit about how it shifted gears, but got a different Subaru with the paddles and been confused how to use them/how to use Manual mode as I embark on more adventures/going to mountains and now can use these examples to assist with on-ramp merging on the highway!
In manual mode, the car will automatically shift up if you hit the redline to prevent damage to the car.
On 22 Ascent, quite a surprise when you need power to move quick...nothing. Appreciate this video. We'll presented and explained
Also, downshifting to make the car go "faster" doesn't really work on these CVT's, leaving it in drive will always be faster just because of how these CVTs are created and how they're made to work, I'm guessing because they have a very strange power band that is early in the revs opposed to normal transmission cars that push more power the more the engine revs (In which case yes, downshifting will help). I have tested this in my '24 crosstrek, and overall the simulated shifting seems gimmicky, with its only real purpose (that I find myself doing often) is spamming the downshift button a few times when coming up to a stop or a red light and having the car engine brake really well. (I even feel that the CVT engine brakes even better than a traditional automatic, so that's a plus) I really appreciate this video though, its really informative, thanks Alex.
CVTs are always in the "optimal gear for the amount of power and speed needed", so leaving it in drive to do its thing will have the car at its most fastest and efficient mode, hence I called the shifting "gimmicky". Using the simulated gears will only make the car less efficient and slower, kind of defeating the purpose of the CVT. As someone who drives manual and loves to hear the sounds of gears banging, the CVT is just god awful when it comes to the simulated shifts and the car is way more enjoyable in normal drive.
On the other hand, normal automatics' or DCTs' manual modes just allow for manual controlling of what the transmission already does, which, yes, does give you more control of the car and makes the driving experience more fun. For CVT's, think of the manual mode as making the transmission switch over and do an entire different thing, which also make the mechanics of it worse. So... pointless. (besides engine braking mwhaha) I know I seem crazy talking to myself in the comments 😂😂
Informative for those who weren't aware.
However, i definitely would not say reviving to redline will seize up engine.
Anything above 75% throttle will take it above 5,000 in D.
Full throttle is D will redline it.
If maintained properly it definitely will not damage engine.
Hi Alex,
We get between 4-5 feet of snow every winter.
The paddle shifters are Awesome when you need to slow down on snowy or icy roads.
There’s less chance of “breaking traction “ by applying the brakes vs using the paddles to “downshift” or slow the car down.
We live in the mountains and there’s a lot of “S” curves.
Even on dry pavement, a few corners you have to get down to 20-25 mph.
I told a neighbor about it and now they use the paddles on their Crosstrek. He told me that he has better control in their Subie when they use the paddles as well.
Great tutorial, Alex. You have some tips not included in the Crosstrek manual. I'm a first-time Subaru buyer, and your videos helped me quickly get up to speed on my new Crosstrek Sport. Thanks!
2019 Crosstrek here- I love the shifters esp living in Chicago with all our ice and snow, but in heavy traffic it’s not great as many folks can attest to. I use it on the highway to maximize mpg when not using cruise control, and in bad weather for the awesome combo of AWD and engine braking in M mode. Had no idea how to use them until I accidentally bumped my shifter to the left and couldn’t figure out WTF was wrong with my car! Lol now I can’t live without them. Thanks for another great vid!
Thank you for this video! I just purchased a pre-owned 2022 Forester and had no idea what the paddles are used for.
I just bought my new 2022 Crosstrek and have not really used the paddle shifters yet. This video game me confidence in working them, especially in slowing the vehicle using engine compression while going down long hills and not having to ride the brakes. I am headed to the Rocky Mountains in a few weeks and I KNOW I will need to do this during all those numerous long downhill runs on I-70. No more brake jobs needed after going through the Sierra or Rocky Mountains!!! THANK YOU!
This is great, thanks! Just bought my first Subaru, it's coming in about 10 days and I'm trying to get as many tips as possible.
That's coming up quick! 😀
Alex is your guy!
@@alexpmo haha, well it's already in the country, only coming from a different town.
this is a really good video im faded asf and trying to learn how to drive a subaru manual
do you have a subaru outback?
As a previous Stick-Shifter, I always thought the paddle shifters on auto transmissions was a big waste. Your video helped me see how useful they can be.
I have a 22 Outback Wilderness, and one of my biggest complaints is how the transmission seems to falter when braking hard, and then accelerating. Using the paddle shifters might just be the ticket!!
Thanks
I just got an Outback 2024. I can’t wait to try the down shift on the down ramp.
Thank you so much for this video. I have not used this feature in my Outback before, tho I knew it was there. But I had not reviewed the manual. I do live in a snowy area and I also travel to hilly, mountainous terrain. So your explanations are wonderful. Thanks again for teaching me so much, so I can maximize the features in my vehicle.!!!!
Glad it was helpful! You're welcome 😊
TY … I’ve used Paddle Shifters since my ‘16 Outback. But only in the saving brakes down hills mode.
I’ve never driven standard so couldn’t understand the acceleration concept. I will watch this again but I better understand it now. And to watch that it’s between 3-4 reeves. Recently, I did start to move the gear shift into “M”, before just used the paddles. Even though I’ve driven Outback’s for 12 years, your videos are very helpful.
I think brakes are lower cost then a cvt. Subaru had to replace my mom's at 49k in her 2014 outback. I would down shift it like a truck doing down hill.
We have had our Outback for 3 years. Neither of us have ever used the paddles. We have no problem with lack of power on on ramps nor regular passing.
Awesome overview. I just got a 2023 Wilderness, and have experience driving manual transmission. It’s nice that I can utilize this vehicle in the same ways as a normal manual transmission (traffic scenarios, acceleration purposes, etc.)
Not quite. That would be true for a traditional automatic, but for the CVT drive will always been the most optimal for any scenario
Fantastic videos and SO much better than trying to interpret that raft of manuals.
Thank you very much for the information, I did not know what the seller was used for, I did not explain many things about this incredible car, thank you
Thanks! I just picked up my new 2025 Legacy and was wondering how to use that feature. Very helpful.
Hey thanks. I will try this out. I drive through mountains out west and want to save my brakes.
Thanks I never knew this. And never used the padel shifters 👍. Videos explains it all.
Very useful video. I doubt that I will ever use the paddle shifters but now I know how to if I want to.
dude. thank you so much for making so much videos about the Subaru even tho i have the premium legacy . still works the same. Just got mines today and i've been bench watching all your videos lol
Thank you for creating this video. I've wanted to know how to use these paddle shifters for a while though I don't own a Subaru. While I do not own a Subaru, if I ever get enough money to invest in one, I will certainly reconsider buying one. Of the one Impreza 4-door sedan and the one Outback I drove and other Subarus I've sat in, I've certainly admired them from up close and afar. Living in Maryland near Washington DC doesn't give us much snow these days, but we do get it sometimes including icy rain and black ice. I would like something with a bit more heft and more road traction than my Toyota Corolla. My Corolla is a very practical, low cost, easy to drive, and serviceable vehicle, but "fun" is hardly what I'd describe it to be. Honestly, these Subarus really need to have places all around the country where you can learn to maximize all the benefits of driving them in all sorts of weather and driving conditions so one can learn all the gadgets and gizmos they offer.
I have a 2021 crosstrek sport. It has all wheel drive and x mode. I am not sure the best way to use these features in ice and snow.
Good video I did not realize it would work while in auto
It took me a while to find that out also
@@alexpmo I tried that on my wife’s forester wilderness. I double tapped the left side and it was very responsive
Your content is great !
When do we use the Neutral Mode ?
Thank You
Some have said that engine breaking with CVT is not good for the transmission. Can you share any information about that? How often is too much engine breaking?
i dunno man, i RAPED my subaru xv with the low gear, i drove about 210000km, and nothing happend to gear, now i have forester, hoping for the same, these are pretty reliable gear and engine
Engine braking in a cvt will do the same as in any car, just bring the revs up. You can google if engine braking it bad for your car, but most people usually say no
Thornton chip tuning has chips from +20hp to +60hp. They work well
Thank you for this information. Two questions. One. When needing to accelerate quickly, Do you just press the downshift paddle once for acceleration or are you pressing it multiple times?. I could not tell in the video. 2. Can you /should you use the downshift paddle for going up a steep hill/mountain?
3. What’s an example of when you would use the right side paddle?
TIA
Sorry, that was 3 questions 😊
Newbie question here... why shift down not up, when trying to get to speed with traffic?
Horsepower and torque- downshift increases RPM - its tons of fun in the snow- it’s sequential shifting like a motorcycle - in the MBenz shifting was not sequential doesn’t have the race car feel.
The older paddles (2012 I believe) will automatically downshift based on engine speed etc. The newer ones act like real manual transmission. It will stay on the same gear even while braking to a stop until u shift down! 😅
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I’ve been wondering how/when/why and really didn’t want to invest time to reading the Subaru “bible“ because I’d rather be driving it! 😘. You saved a lot of us A TON of time
Happy to help! Thanks for watching Tammy!
Thank you. Now I know what the M means AND what the funky paddles are. Never even heard of such a thing before . . . .
Thanks for this video. The dealership just gives you the vehicle and never tells you anything.
Reading the manual is cool, but seeing it hands on is great!
Love this video! ♥️
Thanks for tackling the paddle shifters topic. In the olden days, we called the RPM gauge a tachometer. Are the manual transmission 2024 WRX's encumbered with Auto Stop-Start?
Just found you as I couldn’t figure out downshifting. I’m living in a mountainous area right now taking care of my 80+ parents. I bought my Outback in May of 2020. I got no tutorial on how to drive it. I went from a 2002 SUV to to this and boy was there a lot to learn! Since the pandemic I haven’t driven much. All working from home. Mileage is close to flipping to 6000. 😂. One question what’s the button for on the gear shift?
Same thing happened to me, went from a 2000 Chevy S10 to a 2017 Subaru Legacy 3.2r. Didn't show me anything and now I am RUclips. lol Learning.... Talk about night and day.
If you mean the button that you squeeze when using the gear shift, that's just an unlock mechanism you need to press to switch through some of the gears (Except N D and R -> P I believe) Its basically like needing to press the brake, just another step. Older cars usually didn't have it
Thanks for this. 2021 Forester. I never knew what it did (too lazy to read the manual) . Now I'll use it. It makes sense when you show it. Great job.
Thanks! Most people may never use it and so I find that a lot of salespeople don't cover this. But it's nice to know if you ever accidentally put your Subaru in manual mode
I have been looking for this answer for a while. Thanks so much for providing this video! Great job!!!
You’re welcome!
Nice pic of I-26 2:10, I drove that road today, that interstate on the NC side is no joke!
Thanks for inf. I didn't know much about this. You are so helpful!
Really cool/smooth transitions in and out of the car at the beginning of this video!
if you're going down a long downhill stretch, as per my local subaru dealer, the *cruise control* will put the CVT at the correct ration to hold you speed. Using the paddle shifters makes you select one of 7 pre-selected [imaginary] ratios. Use the cruise for this. Plus, if it gets out of control (haven't seen this yet, not even crossing the Rockies) it will apply the brakes as needed.
Question: does using the paddles ever *not* disengage the cruise control?
I prefer to use the transmission to shift to allow for one-hand shifting. Basically once you put the transmission in the M-mode, you push it to the left to engage the manual mode, as which you either push up or down to shift using just the right hand. Using the paddle shifter, you need both hands to shift.
consdiering its just sending an electronic signal to the CVT, I would have also appreciated if the option for a 'sequential' style shift from the gear lever and the wheel paddles were both options
Great info for new Suburu owners, thanks
I recently purchased a 2023 Subaru Solterra. Do you have any videos that could help me get better acquainted with the technology?
Very helpful video on the paddle shifters. Just curious as to whether you can keep your foot on accelerator whole you're shifting. Also just to confirm - when getting on the highway you shifted DOWN to increase RPM ??? And where can I cat one of those nice SUBARU pullovers :)
Yup you downshift to raise your revs to pass somebody or quickly get up to your target speed.
I have found that the CVT Legacy gets worse fuel economy than my 4EAT Box on wheels Forester on the highway in hilly country because it down shifts.
This can be drastically improved by putting it in manual mode and upshifting.
Hi Alex, I have a 2025 OB Premium that I tried out the paddle shifters for the first time this weekend to downshift on a steep, narrow winding road. Unlike the Toyota paddle shifters that I'm familiar with, the OB's downshift (-) paddle seems to downshift two "gears" while in Drive versus one gear like Toyota. I was doing about 35 mph when I "downshifted" once with the paddle and the RPM's jumped up to over 4000, which seemed excessive and I immediately engaged the (+} paddle to upshift and drop the RPM's. I plan on trips out west where there are long switchbacks coming down passes. As I mentioned, the Toyotas I've driven the past 14-15 years seem to inclemently downshift one gear per paddle application....similar to downshifting a manual transmission. Thank you for any advice you can offer.
I realize that they added simulated gears to make people like the behavior better. But I wish you could just switch that mode off and get the most efficient gearless mode the CVT is capable of. And yes, whether in manual or auto mode, the paddle shifters are useful. Most of the time I use them in the auto mode, anticipating need in a few seconds, or knowing I will be accellerating or slowing down. And I don't have to worry about being in the wrong gear because after a few moments it just starts doing it's own thing again. I would only use manual mode for offroad situations mostly to limit upshifting. Databyter
Two comments: Does the CVT not downshift for you when you accelerate as on an on-ramp? Maybe it's my '23 turbo (Outback Onyx), but I haven't seen a need for paddle downshifting.
Did you mention that paddle downshifting places you in a different gear relative to your speed? Downshifting at higher speeds places me in [6] (as shown on the dash); from a lower speed, the paddle may put me in [5], or [4], etc. And from those, I can also downshift further - a very useful feature coming down our Colorado mountain roads.
Our 2024 Outback comes with this feature called XMode. Do you know much about that? It sounds like it does many of the features you described automatically versus you doing them manually. Or an I wrong?
the low beam bulbs on my 2011 outback do you have a video for that?
Love your videos, they are so informative.
Great info. I haven’t been sure how to use mine. I’ll be trying it now. Thanks for the demo.
Saving brakes is good but won't using the engine for braking wear IT out sooner?
I love this section of just bought a brand new Crosstrek and I'm practicing with a paddle shifters right now. I noticed that you shifted down not up when you were merging into the highway traffic. Wouldn't that caused you to slow down? Don't you want a paddle shift up to speed up? Also do you have to be in sport mode or intelligent drive mode or does it matter? Thank you for these super wonderful informative videos I'm learning so much about my brand new Subie! ❤❤❤❤
I just got a new Out Back and redlined it out of the dealership. Luckily my car is still fine but i’m sticking to drive mode and no paddle shifter usage for now >.
Great video...thanks. Just bought a 2024 Outback and I plan on driving in snowy conditions. Do you use the paddle shifters when using x mode or not necessary? Still learning about my car.
Is there a video using the power shifters when driving on icy and/or snowy roads as well as mountain roads, not off roads.
I live in jamaica and have a 2017 impreza hatchback 2 years now. I NEVER use the paddle shift. Don't care for it. I just put the car in D and drive😂
Please can you give updates on what changes have been done by Subaru to decrease technology malfunctions after 3 years warranty?
Just got my Outback 2022 and I heard/read people who got it in 2019/20/21 got some expensive fixes! Please details about Subaru of America!
They tried to sell me the warranty extension since they are aware of their current issues/challenges with new technology that actually controls the entire car
Sometimes it is worth it to demo the paddles in off road conditions or snow conditions. This is when I use the paddles regularly.
@Alex - what Subaru is this that you're driving? I'm wondering if this is the Limited with the black leather interior? We're trying to decide between the black and the gray interior, and can't find any locally to look at! So, we would love a video where you go over the interior cloth and leather color choices!
6ou mentioned downhill. What about using it for uphill driving..
How are the paddle shifters used going up steep inclines/hills on highways??
Is it advisable to use downshifting when coming to a red light or stop sign as a way to stop the car by using the engine rather than the brakes?
Is there a recording system in the car that records what gear you're in and whether you're in manual or the regular system?
With a CVT? Hope it really makes it feel like a shift not a lurch
Great Video. Covered exactly the info I needed. Thank you.
thanks now i can whip in my impreza hatchback even better 😂👊
When shifting down in automatic drive, do u take your foot completely off the gas? Love your videos
Quick question... At about the 5:09 mark in your video, there is a chime almost sounds like a doorbell, what is it? I have recently been driving a 2019 Legacy Limited and hear that same chime at random places and random times while driving. Very helpful videos!
My wife drives our 2020 Ascent, unless I am mistaken, the shift knob has D and L to the left of D.. There is no Manual mode, unless I am losing my mind. I am curious as to how to use the paddle shifters if you don't have manual mode and you want to keep the car in a downshifted gear?
For example, if I want to use the paddles to put the car in a lower "gear" for descending a steep hill, What prevents the car from upshifting if I don't want it to, lets say I hit a plateau for a bit and need to give it gas, or I tap on the gas by mistake during the descent?
Regarding the latter, would I have to press the accelerator down far enough to "match revs" with the engine's engine braking RPM in order for it to release the selected "gear"?
Thanks for the video!
I just purchased a 2022 Forester. I live in VA, where we have lots of mountains. Should hit the - button to shift down when going down a steep incline to save using the breaks?
Thank you very much for the excellent video
On my 2020 Forester ES model the gear up-shift or down-shift indicator sometimes flash. Is this the recommendation from the cruise control system?