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STARTING AND OPERATING 59
NOTE:
To select the proper gear position for maximum
deceleration (engine braking), move the gear
selector into the ERS position, then tap it forward
(-) repeatedly as the vehicle slows. The trans-
mission will shift to the range from which the
vehicle can best be slowed down.
Overdrive Operation
The automatic transmission includes an
electronically controlled Overdrive (SIXTH gear).
The transmission will automatically shift into
Overdrive if the following conditions are present:
The gear selector is in the DRIVE position.
The transmission fluid has reached an
adequate temperature.
The engine coolant has reached an adequate
temperature.
The vehicle speed is sufficiently high.
The driver is not heavily pressing the acceler-
ator.
When To Use TOW/HAUL Mode
When driving in hilly areas, towing a trailer, carrying
a heavy load, etc., and frequent transmission
shifting occurs, push the TOW/HAUL switch to
activate TOW/HAUL mode. This will improve
performance and reduce the potential for
transmission overheating or failure due to
excessive shifting. When operating in TOW/HAUL
mode, transmission upshifts are delayed, and the
transmission will automatically downshift (for
engine braking) during steady braking maneuvers.
The “TOW/HAUL Indicator Light” will illuminate in
the instrument cluster to indicate that TOW/HAUL
mode has been activated. Pushing the switch a
second time restores normal operation. Normal
operation is always the default at engine start-up.
If TOW/HAUL mode is desired, the switch must be
pushed each time the engine is started.
Torque Converter Clutch
A feature designed to improve fuel economy has
been included in the automatic transmission on
your vehicle. A clutch within the torque converter
engages automatically at calibrated speeds. This
may result in a slightly different feeling or response
during normal operation in the upper gears. When
the vehicle speed drops or during some
accelerations, the clutch automatically
disengages.
NOTE:
The torque converter clutch will not engage until
the transmission fluid and engine coolant are
warm [usually after 1 to 3 miles (2 to 5 km) of
driving]. Because the engine speed is higher
when the torque converter clutch is not
engaged, it may seem as if the transmission is
not shifting into Overdrive when cold. This is
normal. Using the Electronic Range Select (ERS)
shift control, when the transmission is suffi-
ciently warm, will demonstrate that the trans-
mission is able to shift into and out of Overdrive.
Instrument
Cluster Display
1 2 3 4 5 6 D
Actual Gear(s)
Allowed
1 1–2 1–3 1–4 1–5 1–6 1–6
4
21_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 59
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