Uphill/downhill transmission control system
The uphill/downhill transmission control system operates only when the shift lever is
in the D position. Unnecessary gear changes and lockups are eliminated to provide
smooth climbing.
•
On steep uphill grades or when towing a heavy load, the system senses lack of
engine torque in the upper gear and prevents upshifting (2nd to 3rd or from 3rd to
4th) or lockup. Frequent gear changes are eliminated.
On diesel vehicles using automatic transmission the following two points apply:
• On steep downhill grades, the system automatically downshifts when you apply the
foot brake. Engine braking power is utilised to reduce the service brake load.
• The system automatically downshifts from 4th gear to 3rd gear on a downhill
grade when:
- the steepness exceeds a preset level, and
- the brake pedal is applied.
P (park) This stops the rear wheels from turning and should be selected (together
with the park brake) when leaving the vehicle. Never select P until your
vehicle is fully stopped. The P position is one of only two positions (the
other is N) in which your engine may be started.
Note The vehicle is equipped with Brake Transmission Shift Interlock
(BTSI). To move the transmission gear selector lever out of position P,
have the ignition switched to the ON position and depress the brake
pedal. If the vehicle’s battery is at, refer to Towing a disabled vehicle in
chapter 6.
R (reverse) Never select R until your vehicle is fully stopped. The reversing lights will
operate when R is selected and the ignition is on. After reversing, make
sure the vehicle has fully stopped before proceeding forward again.
N
(neutral) This is the out-of-gear position. You may restart a stalled engine while
the vehicle is still moving or stopped.
D
(drive) This is the normal forward driving position and allows the transmission
to choose the appropriate gear (1st through to 4th) for the driving
conditions and optimum fuel economy.
Note For diesel engine vehicles the transmission may not shift into 4th
gear until the engine is at operating temperature.
3
(third) This position allows the transmission to shift between 1st, 2nd and 3rd
gear as conditions require. 4th gear is excluded. Use this position when
going down a long hill or on a road with many sharp curves. Shift back
into the D position to return to normal driving.
2
(second) This position allows the transmission to shift between 1st and 2nd gear.
Use this position when going down a moderate gradient where you
want to slow down a little without using the brake. Shift back into the D
position to return to normal driving.
L
(low) The transmission cannot shift out of 1st gear when in this position and
should only be used when strong braking effect is needed on a very steep
hill. The shift lever can be shifted back to L at any speed. However, the
transmission will not actually enter 1st gear until vehicle speed is below
36 km/h (petrol engine), 45 km/h (diesel engine). Remember to shift
back to D to resume normal driving.
TRANSMISSION OPERATION cont.
Chapter 4
DRIVING
4-16
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