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STARTING AND OPERATING 151
Overdrive Operation
The automatic transmission includes an
electronically controlled Overdrive (FIFTH and
SIXTH gears). 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 accelerator.
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) when the throttle is closed and/or
during steady braking maneuvers.
TOW/HAUL Switch
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 engine speed is higher when the torque
converter clutch is not engaged, it may seem as if
the transmission is not shifting properly when cold.
This is normal. Using the Electronic Range Select
(ERS) shift control, when the transmission is suffi-
ciently warm, will demonstrate that the transmission
is able to shift into and out of Overdrive.
If the vehicle has not been driven for several days,
the first few seconds of operation after shifting the
transmission into gear may seem sluggish. This is
due to the fluid partially draining from the torque
converter into the transmission. This condition is
normal and will not cause damage to the transmis-
sion. The torque converter will refill within five
seconds after starting the engine.
WARNING!
Do not use the TOW/HAUL feature when driving in icy
or slippery conditions. The increased engine braking
can cause the rear wheels to slide, and the vehicle
to swing around with the possible loss of vehicle
control, which may cause an accident possibly
resulting in personal injury or death.
4
22_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 151
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