Lexus RX300 2001, Owner'S Manual

Page: 201 / 335

STARTING AND DRIVING
182
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U)
(a) Overdrive switch
31R042
You can select either a third gear (with overdrive off) or fourth
gear (with overdrive on) by pushing this switch.
To turn the overdrive off, push the switch. The “O/D OFF”
indicator light should come on. To turn the overdrive on again,
push the switch again. The “O/D OFF” indicator light should
go off.
Always drive your vehicle with the overdrive on for better fuel
economy and quieter driving.
If the engine is turned off when the overdrive is off and
restarted, the overdrive will automatically be on.
When the cruise control is being used, even if you downshift
the transmission by pushing and releasing the overdrive
switch, engine braking will not be enabled because the cruise
control is not cancelled.
For ways to decrease the vehicle speed, see page 190.
(b) Normal driving
31R043
1 “P” (Park) position 2 “N” (Neutral) position
1. Start the engine as instructed in “How to start the
engine” on page 179.
The transmission must be in “P” or “N”. The engine will not start
in “R”, “2”, “L” or “D” position even if the ignition key is turned
to “START”.
The driving pattern is automatically set to “Normal” mode when
the engine is started. You can select the driving pattern either
“Normal” or “Snow” mode to suit your driving condition.
2. For starting your vehicle in sand, mud, ice or snow, set
the “Snow” mode. For details, see “(j) Driving in “Snow”
mode” on page 187.