Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission – 3.6L Engine

The transmission gear display (PRND) (located in the instrument cluster) indicates the transmission gear range.

Transmission gear position is also indicated in the display in the shift knob. The shift lever is spring-loaded and returns to a home position when it is released. To select a gear range, press the lock button on the shift lever and move the lever rearward or forward. You must also press the brake pedal to shift the transmission out of the PARK position (refer to “Brake/Transmission Shift Interlock System” in this section). To shift past multiple gear ranges at once (such as PARK to DRIVE), move the lever past the first (or second) detent. Select the DRIVE range for normal driving.

The electronically-controlled transmission provides a precise shift schedule. The transmission electronics are self-calibrating; therefore, the first few shifts on a new vehicle may be somewhat abrupt. This is a normal condition, and precision shifts will develop within a few hundred miles (kilometers).

Shifting from DRIVE to PARK or REVERSE should be done only after the accelerator pedal is released and the vehicle is stopped. Be sure to keep your foot on the brake pedal when moving the shift lever between these gears.

    See also:

    Automatic Transmission
    CAUTION! Damage to the transmission may occur if the following precautions are not observed: • Move the shift lever into PARK only after the vehicle has come to a complete stop. • Shift int ...

    Adding Coolant
    Your vehicle has been built with an improved engine coolant (antifreeze) that allows extended maintenance intervals. This engine coolant (antifreeze) can be used up to five years or 104,000 mile ...

    Flowing/Rising Water
    WARNING! Do not drive on or across a road or path where water is flowing and/or rising (as in storm run-off). Flowing water can wear away the road or path’s surface and cause your vehicle to ...