Shifting the Automatic (cont'd)
Driving Technique
D4-4th
Use the D4 range for normal in-town and highway driving. The car will
start off in 1st and shift automatically to 2nd, 3rd, and 4th. The further
down you push the accelerator, the later the transmission shifts and the
faster the car accelerates.
D3-3rd
D3 allows the transmission to start off in 1st and shift automatically to 2nd
and 3rd. Use D3 when climbing grades to prevent the transmission from
"hunting" between 3rd and 4th gear; or when increased engine braking
is needed.
NOTE: If rapid acceleration is necessary, depress the accelerator to the
floor; the transmission will automatically shift down according to load and
engine speed. This applies to both D4 and D3 ranges.
2-2nd
Use 2nd gear for increased engine braking when driving downhill, and
increased power when driving uphill; also for driving on slippery roads,
and freeing the car from mud or sand, where 1st gear could provide too
much power and cause skidding or wheelspin.
The maximum recommended speed in 2nd gear is 69 mph (110 km/h).
1-1st
This position is to be used when stronger engine braking is needed.
The maximum recommended speed in 1st gear is 31 mph (50 km/h).
R-Reverse
CAUTION: Shift into or out of reverse only after the car has come
to a complete stop; the transmission may be damaged if you shift
while the car is moving.
P-Park
CAUTION: Use this position when starting the engine, or when
parking. Shift into Park only when the car is COMPLETELY stopped.
N-Neutral
Use when starting the engine or during prolonged idling in traffic.