Automatic Transaxle Operation - Pontiac 2001 Aztek Owner's Manual

Automatic Transaxle 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 of the system. This ensures that
the system is operating properly.
2-32
Maximum engine
speed is limited when
you're in PARK (P)
or NEUTRAL (N),
to protect driveline
components from
improper operation.
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)" in this
section for more information.
CAUTION:
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.