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The following indicators should be used to
ensure that you have engaged the transmission
into the PARK position:
• When shifting into PARK, firmly move the
shift lever all the way forward and to the left
until it stops and is fully seated.
• Look at the transmission gear position dis-
play and verify that it indicates the PARK
position.
• With brake pedal released, verify that the
shift lever will not move out of PARK.
REVERSE (R)
This range is for moving the vehicle backward.
Shift into REVERSE only after the vehicle has
come to a complete stop.
NEUTRAL (N)
Use this range when the vehicle is standing for
prolonged periods with the engine running. The
engine may be started in this range. Apply the
parking brake and shift the transmission into
PARK if you must leave the vehicle.
WARNING!
Do not coast in NEUTRAL and never turn off
the ignition to coast down a hill. These are
unsafe practices that limit your response to
changing traffic or road conditions. You might
lose control of the vehicle and have a colli-
sion.
CAUTION!
Towing the vehicle, coasting, or driving for
any other reason with the transmission in
NEUTRAL can cause severe transmission
damage. Refer to "Recreational Towing" in
"Starting And Operating" and "Towing A Dis-
abled Vehicle" in "What To Do In Emergen-
cies" for further information.
DRIVE (D)
This range should be used for most city and
highway driving. It provides the smoothest up-
shifts and downshifts, and the best fuel
economy. The transmission automatically up-
shifts through underdrive first, second, and third
gears, direct fourth gear and overdrive fifth
gear. The DRIVE position provides optimum
driving characteristics under all normal operat-
ing conditions.
When frequent transmission shifting occurs
(such as when operating the vehicle under
heavy loading conditions, in hilly terrain, travel-
ing into strong head winds, or while towing
heavy trailers), use the AutoStick® shift control
(refer to "AutoStick®" in this section for further
information) to select a lower gear. Under these
conditions, using a lower gear will improve
performance and extend transmission life by
reducing excessive shifting and heat buildup.
219
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