Downshifting; Automatic Transmission - If Equipped - Jeep Compass Operating Information Manual

Downshifting

Proper downshifting will improve fuel economy
and prolong engine life.
CAUTION!
If you skip a gear while downshifting or
downshift at too high of a vehicle speed,
these conditions may cause the engine to
overspeed if too low of a gear is selected and
the clutch pedal is released. Damage to the
clutch and the transmission can result from
skipping a gear while downshifting or down-
shifting at too high of a vehicle speed even if
the clutch pedal is held pressed (i.e., not
released).
To maintain a safe speed and prolong brake life,
shift down to second or first gear when descend-
ing a steep grade.
When turning a corner or driving up a steep
grade, downshift early so that the engine will not
be overburdened.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION —
IF EQUIPPED
CAUTION!
Damage to the transmission may occur if
the following precautions are not observed:
• Shift into or out of PARK or REVERSE only
after the vehicle has come to a complete
stop.
• Do not shift between PARK, REVERSE,
NEUTRAL, or DRIVE when the engine is
above idle speed.
• Before shifting into any gear, make sure
your foot is firmly pressing the brake pedal.
NOTE:
You must press and hold the brake pedal
while shifting out of PARK.
WARNING!
• It is dangerous to shift out of PARK or
NEUTRAL if the engine speed is higher
than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly
pressing the brake pedal, the vehicle could
accelerate quickly forward or in reverse.
You could lose control of the vehicle and hit
someone or something. Only shift into gear
when the engine is idling normally and your
foot is firmly pressing the brake pedal.
• Unintended movement of a vehicle could
injure those in or near the vehicle. As with
all vehicles, you should never exit a vehicle
while the engine is running. Before exiting
a vehicle always apply the parking brake,
shift the transmission into PARK, turn the
engine OFF, and remove the ignition key.
Once the key is removed, the transmission
is locked in PARK, securing the vehicle
against unwanted movement.
• When leaving the vehicle, always remove
the ignition key from the vehicle and lock
the vehicle.
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