Automatic Transmission Operation

The automatic transmission has 6 forward speeds and one reverse speed. Gear speeds are selected automatically, depending on the position of the shift lever.

✽ NOTICE

The first few shifts on a new vehicle, or after the battery has been disconnected, may be somewhat harsh. This is normal, and the shift sequence will adjust after the TCM (Transmission Control Module) or PCM (Powertrain Control Module) has shifted several times.

For smooth operation, depress the brake pedal when shifting from N (Neutral) to a forward or reverse gear.

WARNING - Automatic Transmission

• Always check the area around the vehicle for people, especially children, before shifting into D (Drive) or R (Reverse).
• Before leaving the driver's seat, always make sure the shift lever is in P (Park); then fully apply the parking brake and turn off the engine. If these precautions are not followed in the specified order, unexpected and sudden vehicle movement may occur.
• Do not use engine braking (downshifting from a higher gear to a lower gear) abruptly on slippery road surfaces. The vehicle may skid, which may result in an accident.

CAUTION

• To avoid damaging the transmission, do not race the engine in R (Reverse) or any forward gear with the brakes applied.
• When stopped on an incline, do not hold the vehicle stationary with engine power. Use the service brake or the parking brake.
• Do not shift from N (Neutral) or P (Park) into D (Drive) or R (Reverse) when the engine is running above idle speed.