Automatic Transaxle Operation - Pontiac 2005 Sunfire Owner's Manual

Automatic Transaxle Operation

If your vehicle is equipped with an automatic
transaxle, the shift lever is located on the console
between the seats.
There are several different positions for your shift lever.
PARK (P): This position locks your front wheels. It
is the best position to use when you start your engine
because your vehicle cannot move easily.
CAUTION:
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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.
Do not 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.
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
To be sure your vehicle will not move, even
when you are on fairly level ground, always set
your parking brake and move the shift lever to
PARK (P). See Shifting Into Park (P) (Automatic
Transaxle) on page 2-26. If you are pulling a
trailer, see Towing a Trailer (Manual Transaxle)
on page 4-36 or Towing a Trailer (Automatic
Transaxle) on page 4-37.
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 RUN. If you cannot shift
out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever
by pushing the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) or
releasing the shift lever button on floor shift console
models as you maintain brake application. Then move
the shift lever into the gear you want. Press the shift
lever button before moving the shift lever. See Shifting
Out of Park (P) (Automatic Transaxle) on page 2-27.
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