Transaxle Range Selection

Vehicles equipped with the 3.0L (2V) engine do not use a Transmission Control Switch (TCS). The shift quadrant has the following positions: P. R. N. (D), D and 1.

Park
The transaxle is in neutral with the output shaft locked. This prevents the vehicle from rolling forward or backward. For safety reasons, the vehicle parking brake should be used in addition to the transaxle PARK position. Do not select the PARK position until the vehicle comes to a complete stop, because it mechanically locks the output shaft. The engine may be started in the PARK position. This is the only position in which the ignition key can be removed.

Reverse
Allows the vehicle to be operated in a rearward direction, at a reduced gear ratio. Engine braking is provided in REVERSE.

Neutral
As in PARK, there is no power transferred through the transaxle in NEUTRAL. However, the final drive is not locked by the parking pawl assembly, so the wheels are free to rotate. The engine may be started in NEUTRAL.

Overdrive
This position provides all automatic shifts for first through fourth gears. This position also provides apply and release of the Torque Converter Clutch (TCC). Coast braking occurs in third gear.

Drive
This position provides all automatic shifts for first through third gears. This position also provides apply and release of the Torque Converter Clutch (TCC). Coast braking occurs in third gear.

Manual 1
Provides a first gear hold after automatic or manual downshift. The transaxle is prevented from downshifting into first gear above a specific speed (approximately 24 km/h (15 mph)) to protect the powertrain from over-speeding. Engine braking is provided in low position making it especially useful for descending steep grades.