Question about Tiptronic

I just got my car a couple days ago and have never owned a tiptronic transmission before.

When I am driving it in manual mode, if I push the buttons on the steering wheel it will automatically go into standard mode without me needing to touch the shifter. Is this normal and how it is suppose to work? What is the point of having the control on the shifter as well if it can be activated by the steering wheel controls? I actually find it a little annoying since I accidentally pushed the button on the steering wheel while driving and it went into standard mode unexpectedly.

[MNBoxster]

Hi,

You're confusing Tiptronic S with Porsche's old Sportmatic transmission from the '70's. Both are Selectable Automatics, not the Clutchless Manual transmissions found in Audi, BMW and Ferrari

With the Sportmatic, you shifted gears by moving the Gearshift (no buttons on the Wheel), not so with the Tiptronic S.

With Tiptronic S, if you select 'D', the Transmission does it all, selecting the appropriate gear to match the RPMs. But, putting the Gearshift in the 'M' position, and you can only select a different gear with the buttons on the Steering Wheel, not the Gearshift. When decelerating, the Transmission will automatically downshift as you brake. Also, the Tiptronic S starts in 2nd gear. 1st can be manually selected from a stop, but not necessary because it is such a short gear. Also, if manually downshifting (not really necessary), avoid shifts to 1st gear as this will throw out the 'Boat Anchor' and really overstress the drivetrain components. Hope this helps...

Happy Motoring!... Jim'99

I am not confusing the two transmissions since I did not even know the older one existed. I am just did not write my question using the proper lingo or clearly enough.

The fact that I can change gears from the steering wheel regardless if the shifter is on M or D is normal from what I am gathering from your answer.

Thanks.

[MNBoxster]

Hi,

No, you cannot select the gear if the Tranasmission is in 'D', if this is the case with your Car, then there is a fault, probably in either the Control Unit or in the Linkage. The Linkage contains an electronic switch and these have been known to become stuck due to dirt and grease which can accumulate around it. I have a friend who had the opposite problem, he could not shift into Manual mode. The Dealer cleaned and lubricated the linkage and this solved the problem, perhaps this may be the same with yours. Hope this helps...

Happy Motoring!... Jim'99

Originally Posted by MNBoxster

Hi,

No, you cannot select the gear if the Tranasmission is in 'D', if this is the case with your Car, then there is a fault, probably in either the Control Unit or in the Linkage. The Linkage contains an electronic switch and these have been known to become stuck due to dirt and grease which can accumulate around it. I have a friend who had the opposite problem, he could not shift into Manual mode. The Dealer cleaned and lubricated the linkage and this solved the problem, perhaps this may be the same with yours. Hope this helps...

Happy Motoring!... Jim'99

I thought it seemed strange that I can switch in D.

[MNBoxster]

Originally Posted by cartagena

I thought it seemed strange that I can switch in D.

Hi,

Yes it is strange. It may also be simply an adjustment to the Linkage. Hope this helps...

Happy Motoring!... Jim'99

[fab]

cartagena-

I have a tip. I'll be in baby soon and I'll let you know if I can switch to M using the buttons while the shift knob is still in the D position. I think I can but I'll confirm.

[fab]

hake-
your right on the money!

[Ronzi]

The '06 Tips have a temporary manual mode which allows the driver to upshift and downshift using the buttons, with the shifter in "D". After a few seconds it goes back to full auto.
All is well if your new car is behaving this way.

[xtopher]

According to Porsches 2001 prospective buyers 80 page brochure, yes you can shift when in D. "A new Tiptronic S feature allows you to instantly take control of the shifting even when the gearshift lever is in automatic. At the press of a rocker switch, the system reverts to manual mode for at least eight seconds, allowing your fingertips to shift gears on the fly, and devour unsuspecting hairpins at will."

Wow my first post and it's an answer/observation and not a newbie question. I've had my Speed Yellow 2001 S w/ Tip about 2 1/2 weeks and love it. Just wish it wasn't so hot here in AZ. Can't drive it during the day it's just too hot. 106.

Chris

[slogans7]

I have a 2002 S with Tip, and I frequently downshift while in D using the buttons on the steering wheel.

[MNBoxster]

Hi,

Well, it just goes to show you that no one can know everything about these cars. This is entirely new to me and I was incorrect in my earlier post.

My '99 will not do this confirmed by the Owners Manual. I have researched and can find nothing about the MY that this capability was added.

As mentioned, it is a matter of taste, but I think I prefer not having it. With the original 4-spoke wheel, it wouldn't present much of a nuisance. But with the 3-spoke Sport Wheel, I know from personal experience that you often hit the Selector Buttons accidentally and this could be unsettling to have the tranny shift at inopportune times...

Happy Motoring!... Jim '99

Thanks for all your answer. They have been very helpful. Does anyone know where I can download a users manual?