I own a 2013 Sonata auto trans with paddle shifters on steering column. I recently had the tranny linkage recall done. When I was driving in regular drive the paddle shifters were able to switch gears. I thought they were only able to operate in techtronic mode (when the shifter is moved to left of Drive position). Is this normal? Should they be able to shift in regular drive position? Thanks.

 

What does the owners manual say? Did you read it?
In the "Driving Your Vehicle" section it clearly states that the paddle shifters on the steering wheel work when the floor shifter is in either "D" or "Sports Mode".