Well, the + sign only comes on when you're at the end of the RPM range, about 5500 , i.e. about 38 mph in 1st gear, 80 mph in 2nd gear, etc.

When you shift into M (can do it either stopped or moving), it will tell you the gear you're in on the HUD and the DIC, and the MPH in the HUD gets real small.

Sorry, short of coming over and driving your car, I don't have a solution for the paddles not working .