The automatic transaxle has 6 forward speeds and one reverse speed. The individual speeds are selected automatically, depending on the position of the shift lever.
To move the shift lever from the P (Park) position, the brake pedal must be depressed and the lock release button must be pressed.
NOTICE
The first few shifts on a new vehicle, may be somewhat abrupt. This is a normal condition, and the shifting sequence will adjust after shifts are cycled a few times by the TCM (Transaxle Control Module) or PCM (Powertrain Control Module).
For smooth operation, depress the brake pedal when shifting from N (Neutral) to a forward or reverse gear.
WARNING - Automatic transaxle
CAUTION
Transaxle ranges
The indicator in the instrument cluster displays the shift lever position when the ignition switch is in the ON position.
P (Park)
Always come to a complete stop before shifting into P (Park). This position locks the transaxle and prevents the drive wheels from rotating.
WARNING
CAUTION
The transaxle may be damaged if you shift into P (Park) while the vehicle is in motion.
R (Reverse)
Use this position to drive the vehicle backward.
CAUTION
Always come to a complete stop before shifting into or out of R (Reverse); except as explained in “Rocking the vehicle” in this section.
N (Neutral)
The wheels and transaxle are not engaged. The vehicle will roll freely even on the slightest incline unless the parking brake or service brakes are applied.
D (Drive)
This is the normal forward driving position. The transaxle will automatically shift through a 6-gear sequence, providing the best fuel economy and power.
For extra power when passing another vehicle or climbing grades, depress the accelerator fully, at which time the transaxle will automatically downshift to the lower gear.
NOTICE
Always come to a complete stop before shifting into D (Drive).
Sports mode
Whether the vehicle is stationary or in motion, sports mode is selected by pushing the shift lever from the D (Drive) position into the manual gate. To return to D (Drive) range operation, push the shift lever back into the main gate. In sports mode, moving the shift lever backwards and forwards will allow you to make gearshifts rapidly.
Up (+) : Push the lever forward once to shift up one gear.
Down (-) : Pull the lever backwards once to shift down one gear.
NOTICE
Shift lock system
For your safety, the automatic transaxle has a shift lock system which prevents shifting the transaxle from P (Park) or N (Neutral) into R (Reverse) unless the brake pedal is depressed.
To shift the transaxle from P (Park) or N (Neutral) into R (Reverse):
1. Depress and hold the brake pedal.
2. Move the shift lever.
If the brake pedal is repeatedly depressed and released with the shift lever in the P (Park) position, a chattering noise near the shift lever may be heard. This is a normal condition.
WARNING
Always fully depress the brake pedal before and while shifting out of the P (Park) position into another position to avoid inadvertent motion of the vehicle which could injure persons in or around the car.
Ignition key interlock system
The ignition key cannot be removed unless the shift lever is in the P (Park) position. Even if the ignition switch is in the LOCK position, the key also cannot be removed.
Installation
When replacing the ECM, the vehicle equipped with
the immobilizer must be performed procedure as below.
[In the ...
Refrigerant label
The refrigerant label is located on the underside of the hood. ...
Good braking practices
WARNING
Whenever you leave or park your vehicle, always set the parking brake
as far as possible and fully engage the vehicle's transaxle into the P (Park)
position. If the parking brak ...