Shift Pattern

Upshifts
Transaxle upshifting is controlled by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM receives inputs from various engine or vehicle sensors and driver demands to control shift scheduling, shift feel and torque converter clutch operation.

Downshifts
Under certain conditions the transaxle will downshift automatically to a lower gear range (without moving the transaxle range selector lever). There are three categories of automatic downshifts: coastdown, torque demand, and forced or kickdown shifts.

Coastdown
The coastdown downshift occurs as the name indicates, when the vehicle is coasting down to a stop.

Torque Demand
The torque demand downshift occurs automatically during part throttle acceleration when the demand for torque is greater than the engine can provide at that gear ratio. The transaxle will disengage the Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) to provide added acceleration, if applied.

Kickdown
For maximum acceleration, the driver can force a downshift by pressing the accelerator pedal to the floor. A forced downshift into second gear is possible below 88 km/h (55 mph). Below approximately 40 km/h (25 mph) a forced kickdown to first gear will occur. For all shift speeds, specifications are subject to variation due to tire size and engine calibration requirements.

Transmission Control Switch And Lamp Operation
Overdrive (O/D) may be canceled by pressing the Transmission Control Switch (TCS) in the transaxle range selector lever. The system automatically engages the O/D mode each time the ignition switch is turned to RUN. Pressing the TCS with the ignition switch in RUN locks out the O/D mode. Pressing the TCS again reverts to the O/D mode.