3-8
OPERATING YOUR VEHICLE
53MH0-74E
Downshifting maximum allowable
speeds
For F8D engine
For K10B engine
Keep the engine speed so it does nor get
into the red zone of tachometer.Automated Manual Transaxle
Automated manual transaxle is a 5-speed
forward/reverse transaxle. Automated
manual transaxle has the basic features of
conventional manual transaxle, but clutch
operation and transaxle gear shifting are
controlled electronically. The features are
as follows:
76MH0A054
Downshifting km/h (mph)
2nd to 1st 35 (22)
3rd to 2nd 65 (40)
4th to 3rd 100 (62)
5th to 4th OK at all
Downshifting km/h (mph)
2nd to 1st 35 (22)
3rd to 2nd 80 (50)
4th to 3rd 120 (75)
5th to 4th OK at all
NOTICE
When downshifting to a lower gear,
make sure not to downshift at a
speed faster than the maximum
allowable speeds, or severe engine
damage may result.
WA R N I N G
• Reduce your speed and downshift
to a lower gear before going down
a long or steep hill. A lower gear
will allow the engine to provide
braking. Avoid riding the brakes or
they may overheat, resulting in
brake failure.
• When driving on slippery roads, be
sure to slow down before down-
shifting. Excessive and or sudden
changes in engine speed may
cause loss of traction, which could
cause you to lose control.
NOTICE
Make sure that the vehicle is com-
pletely stationary before you shift
into reverse.
NOTICE
• To help avoid clutch damage, do
not use the clutch pedal as a foot-
rest while driving or use the clutch
to keep the vehicle stationary on a
slope. Depress the clutch fully
when shifting.
• When shifting or starting off, do not
race the engine. Racing the engine
can shorten engine life and affect
smooth shifting.
R
N
D -
M
+
4-4
DRIVING TIPS
53MH0-74E
While moving uphill/gradient from a
stand still condition
Apply the parking brake firmly so that the
vehicle does not roll backwards.
Depress the Clutch pedal and Shift the
gearshift lever to 1
st Select position.
Do not slip the clutch.
When ready to start, press accelerator
pedal and slowly release the clutch
pedal simultaneously. When the vehicle
starts to move, gradually release the
parking brake.
Driving on Slippery Roads
60G089S
Under wet road conditions you should
drive at a lower speed than on dry roads
due to possible slippage of tires during
braking. When driving on icy, snow-cov-
ered, or muddy roads, reduce your speed
and avoid sudden acceleration, abrupt
braking, or sharp steering movements.
Tire Chains
Tire chains should only be used if they are
needed to increase traction or are required
by law. Make sure that the chains you use
are the correct size for your vehicle’s tires.
Also make sure that there is enough clear-
ance between the fenders and the chains
as installed on the tires.
Install the chains on the front tires tightly,
according to the chain manufacturer’s
instructions. Retighten the chains after
driving about 1.0 km (1/2 mile) if neces-
sary. With the chains installed, drive slowly.WA R N I N G
Try not to hold the brake pedal down
too long or too often while going
down a steep or long hill. This could
cause the brakes to overheat, result-
ing in reduced braking efficiency.
Failure to take this precaution could
result in loss of vehicle control.
NOTICE
When descending down a hill,
NEVER turn the ignition key to the
“OFF” position. Emission control
system damage may result.
EXAMPLE
NOTICE
• If you hear the chains hitting
against the vehicle body while driv-
ing, stop and tighten them.
• If your vehicle is equipped with full
wheel caps, remove the wheel caps
before installing the chains or the
wheel caps can be damaged by the
chain bands.
