Automatic Transaxle Operation - Pontiac 2003 Aztek Owner's Manual

Automatic Transaxle Operation
I
Maximum engine speed is
limited when you're in
PARK (P) or
NEUTRAL (N), to protect
driveline components
from improper operation.
There are several different positions for your shift lever.
PARK (P): This gear position locks your front wheels.
It's the best position to use when you start your
engine because your vehicle can't move easily.
Ensure the shift lever
is
fully in PARK (P) before starting
the engine. Your vehicle has an automatic transaxle
shift lock control system. You have to fully apply
your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P)
when the ignition key
is
in
ON.
As you step on the
brake pedal, while in PARK (P), you may hear a click
from the solenoid
o f
the system. This ensures that
the system is operating properly.
If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on
the shift lever
-
push the shift lever all the way into
PARK (P) as you maintain brake application. Then hold
the button on the lever and move the shift lever into
the gear you wish. See Shifting Out of Park (P)
on page
2-33
in this section for more information.
It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the
shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the
parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll.
Don't leave your vehicle when the engine is
running unless you have to. If you have left the
engine running, the vehicle can move
suddenly. You or others could be injured. To
be sure your vehicle won't move, even when
you're on fairly level ground, always set your
parking brake and move the shift lever to
PARK (P). See "Shifting Into Park (P)" in the
Index. If you're pulling a trailer, see "Towing a
Trailer'' in the Index.
2-26