Driving
132If, while driving, the selector lever accidentally moves to position N, first
release the accelerator pedal and wait until the engine slows to idling before
selecting a forwards gear ⇒ .
Starting
Select a range ( R, D, 3, 2, 1). Wait until the change has taken place and the
power transmission of the drive wheels has stabilised (slight pressure is
noticeable). Then depress the accelerator.
Stopping
In the case of a temporary stop, for example at a traffic lights, it is not neces-
sary to move to position N , it is sufficent to brake using the brake pedal. The
engine should only run at idle speed.
Parking
On slopes, first pull handbrake on firmly and then connect block. This
prevents overloading the blocking mechanism, making the subsequent
disconnect ion easier ⇒ .
Emergency start
in vehicles fitted with an automatic gearbox the engine can not be started by
towing or pushing the vehicle ⇒ page 217.
If the vehicle battery is flat, a battery from another car can be used to jump-
start the car using a set of jump leads ⇒ pa ge 125.
To w i n g
If the vehicle requires towing at any time, observe the instructions of
⇒ page 217, “Towing and tow-starting”
Back-up programme
In the event of a malfunction of the gearbox electronics, emergency
programmes are activated, according to the type of fault.•
The gearbox continues to connect gears automatically, but the operations
are jerky. Consult the Authorised Service Centre.
•
The gearbox does not automatically engage gears.
In this case they can be change d manually. 3rd gear is only available in posi-
tions D, 3 and 2 of the selector lever.
In positions 1 and R of the selector lever 1st gear and reve rse gear are available
respectively as normal
As the torque converter is required to work more, especially due to the lack of
2nd gear, it is possible that the gearbox oil may overheat. In this case,
consult the Auth orised Service Centre as soon as possible.
WARNING
•
In all the ranges the vehicle must always be held with the foot brake
when the engine is running. This is because an automatic gearbox still
transmits power even at idling speed , and the vehicle tends to “creep”.
•
If, when the car is at a standstill and the engine is idling, a range is
connected, take care not to accelerate accidentally (for example, when
working in the engine compartment), as the car will start to move immedi-
ately.
•
Before working on a running engine, place the selector lever in position
P and apply the handbrake.
•
To prevent the vehicle from moving out of control, the handbrake
should always be applied when the vehicle is at a standstill. In addition
move the selector lever to position P.
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Driving and the environment
144Authorised Service Centre more frequently than recommended in the Service
Schedule.
If you drive with wet brakes, for example after driving through water, after
heavy rainfall or after washing the car, the braking effect will be reduced as
the brake discs will be wet, or possibly frozen (in winter): the brakes must be
“dried” through careful braking.
The brake fluid must be changed every two years at the latest. Heavy use of
the brakes may cause a vapour lock if the brake fluid is left in the system for
too long. This prevents the brakes developing their full braking effect.
WARNING
Longer braking distances and faults in the brake system increase the risk
of accidents.•
New brake pads must be run in and do not have the correct friction
during the first 200 km. However, the reduced braking capacity may be
compensated by pressing on the brake pedal a little harder. This also
applies when new brake pads are fitted.
•
If brakes are wet or frozen, or if you are driving on roads which have
been gritted with salt, braking power may set in later than normal.
•
On steep descents if the brakes are excessively used they will over heat
Before driving down a long steep gradient, it is advisable to reduce speed
and change to a lower gear (or move the selector lever to a lower gear if
your vehicle has automatic transmission). This makes use of engine
braking and relieves the brakes.
•
Never let the brakes “rub” by applying light pressure. Continuous
braking will cause the brakes to overheat and will increase the braking
distance. Apply and then release the brakes alternately.
•
Never let the vehicle coast with the engine switched off. The braking
distance is increased considerably as the brake servo does not function.
•
Very heavy use of the brakes may cause a vapour lock if the brake fluid
is left in the system for too long. This impairs the braking effect.
•
Non-standard or damaged front spoilers could restrict the airflow to the
brakes and cause them to overheat. Observe the relevant instructions
before purchasing accessories ⇒page 162, “Modifications”.
•
If a brake circuit fails, the braking distance will be increased consider-
ably. Contact a qualified workshop immediately and avoid unnecessary
journeys.
Catalytic converter*To conserve the useful life of the catalytic converter
– Always use unleaded petrol.
– Do not run the fuel tank dry.
– For engine oil changes, do not replenish with too much engine oil ⇒page 175, “Topping up engine oil ”.
– Never tow the vehicle to start it, use jump leads if necessary ⇒page 214.If you notice misfiring, uneven running or loss of power when the vehicle is
moving, reduce speed immediately and have the vehicle inspected at the
nearest qualified workshop. In general, the exhaust warning lamp will light
up when any of the described symptoms occur ⇒page 60. If this happens,
unburnt fuel can enter the exhaust system and escape into the environment.
The catalytic converter can also be damaged by overheating.
WARNING (continued)
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