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the "3" position will improve performance and
extend transaxle life by reducing excessive shift-
ing and heat build-up.
• "3" Drive
This range eliminates shifts into Overdrive. The
transaxle will operate normally in First, Second
and Third while in this range. The "3" position
should also be used when descending steep
grades to prevent brake system distress.
NOTE:
Using the "3" range while operating the vehicle
under heavy operating conditions will improve
performance and extend transaxle life by re-
ducing excessive shifting and heat build up.
• "L" Low
This range should be used for engine braking
when descending steep grades. In this range,
upshifts will occur only to prevent engine over-
speed while downshifts occur earlier than other
gear range selections.
NOTE:
The vehicle computer will over ride Overdrive
and "3" Drive ranges changing shift points if
the transaxle operating temperature exceeds
acceptable limits. This is done to prevent
transaxle damage due to overheating.
96
MANUAL TRANSAXLE
NOTE:
The parking brake should be engaged before
leaving the vehicle, especially on an incline.
Fully depress the clutch pedal before you shift
gears. As you release the clutch pedal, lightly
depress the accelerator pedal.
Be sure the transaxle is in FIRST
gear (not THIRD) when starting
from a standing position. Dam-
age to the clutch can result from
starting in THIRD.
For most city driving, you will find it easier to use
only the lower gears. For steady highway driving
with light throttle accelerations, 5th gear is recom-
mended. To shift into 5th gear, move the shift lever
to the right beyond the spring pressure point and
push it forward. When shifting from 5th to 4th gear,
pull the lever down toward you in one motion.
Do not pull the lever sharply left as you may shift
accidentally into 2nd gear and damage the trans-
axle.
Never drive with your foot resting on the clutch
pedal, or attempt to hold the vehicle on a hill with
the clutch pedal partially engaged, as this will
cause abnormal wear on the clutch.
Never shift into REVERSE until the vehicle has
come to a complete stop.
NOTE:
During cold weather, until the transaxle lubri-
cant has warmed, you may have difficulty shift-
ing. This is normal and not harmful to the
transaxle.
Manual Transaxle
Recommended
Shift Speeds
Recommended Vehicle Shift Speeds
Gear
1 - 2
2 - 3
2.4L
25 km/h
45 km/h
65 km/h
Gasoline
(15
(27
mph)
mph)
2.5L
20 km/h
35 km/h
55 km/h
Diesel
(13
(22
mph)
mph)
Higher upshift speeds may be used to obtain a
desired acceleration rate.
Downshifting — Proper downshifting will improve
fuel economy and prolong brake life.
If you downshift at too high a vehicle speed, the
engine will overspeed and could be damaged. It
is recommended to avoid over-revving that down-
shifts are done sequentially.
3 - 4
4 - 5
85 km/h
(40
(52
mph)
mph)
70 km/h
(33
(42
mph)
mph
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