Page 362 of 589

In AutoStick mode, the transmission will shift up or
down when (+/-) is manually selected by the driver,
unless an engine lugging or overspeed condition would
result. It will remain in the selected gear until another
upshift or downshift is chosen, except as described
below:
•The transmission will automatically upshift when nec-
essary to prevent engine over-speed.
• The transmission will automatically downshift as the
vehicle slows (to prevent engine lugging) and will
display the current gear.
• The transmission will automatically downshift to first
gear when coming to a stop. After a stop, the driver
should manually upshift (+) the transmission as the
vehicle is accelerated.
• If a requested downshift would cause the engine to
overspeed, that shift will not occur. •
Transmission shifting will be more noticeable when
AutoStick is engaged.
• Heavy Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) application will
disengage AutoStick mode.
• The system may revert to automatic shift mode if a
fault or overheat condition is detected.
To disengage AutoStick mode, hold the shift lever to the
right (+) until “D” is once again displayed in the instru-
ment cluster. You can shift in or out of the AutoStick
mode at any time without taking your foot off the
accelerator pedal.
WARNING!
Do not downshift for additional engine braking on a
slippery surface. The drive wheels could lose their
grip and the vehicle could skid, causing a collision or
personal injury.
360 STARTING AND OPERATING
Page 448 of 589

Towing Tips
Before setting out on a trip, practice turning, stopping,
and backing up the trailer in an area located away from
heavy traffic.
Manual Transmission — If Equipped
If using a manual transmission vehicle for trailer towing,
all starts must be in first gear to avoid excessive clutch
slippage.
Automatic Transmission — If Equipped
The DRIVE range can be selected when towing. How-
ever, if frequent shifting or changes in engine speed occur
while in this range, use the AutoStick shift control (if
equipped) to select a lower gear ratio.NOTE:
•
Using a lower gear ratio while operating the vehicle
under heavy loading conditions, will improve perfor-
mance and extend transmission life by reducing exces-
sive shifting and heat buildup. This action will also
provide better engine braking.
• If you REGULARLY tow a trailer for more than 45
minutes of continuous operation, then change the
transmission fluid and filter as specified for police,
taxi, fleet, or frequent trailer towing. Refer to the
Maintenance Schedule for the proper maintenance
intervals.
446 STARTING AND OPERATING
Page 449 of 589

AutoStick — If Equipped
When using the AutoStick shift control, select the highest
gear that allows for adequate performance and avoids
frequent downshifts. For example, choose4if the
desired speed can be maintained. Choose 3or2 if
needed to maintain the desired speed.
To prevent excess heat generation, avoid continuous
driving at high RPM. Reduce vehicle speed as necessary
to avoid extended driving at high RPM. Return to a
higher gear or vehicle speed when grade and road
conditions allow.
Electronic Speed Control — If Equipped
• Do not use in hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
• When using the speed control, if you experience speed
drops greater than 10 mph (16 km/h), disengage until
you can get back to cruising speed. •
Use speed control in flat terrain and with light loads to
maximize fuel efficiency.
Cooling System
To reduce potential for engine and transmission over-
heating, take the following actions:
City Driving
When stopped for short periods of time, shift the trans-
mission into NEUTRAL and increase engine idle speed.
Highway Driving
Reduce speed.
Air Conditioning
Turn off temporarily.
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 447
Page 569 of 589

Capacities........................... .538
Disposal ............................. .513
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) ................377
Anti-Lock Warning Light ....................240
Appearance Care ........................ .522
Assistance Towing ........................ .126
Assist, Hill Start ......................... .380
Automatic Dimming Mirror ..................108
Automatic Door Locks ....................32, 33
Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) ..........323
Automatic Transaxle ........................12
Fluid Level Check ...................... .520
Automatic Transmission ...........343, 345, 517, 519
Autostick ............................ .357
Fluid And Filter Changes ..............518, 520
Fluid Level Check ...................... .518
Fluid Type .....................517, 519, 541
Gear Ranges ...................... .346, 353
Special Additives ....................517, 519 Autostick
........................... .357, 359
Axle Fluid ............................. .541
Battery ............................ .231, 501
Charging System Light ...................231
Keyless Transmitter Replacement (RKE) ........25
Belts, Seat ...............................99
Body Mechanism Lubrication .................504
B-Pillar Location ......................... .397
Brake Assist System ...................... .379
Brake Fluid ............................ .541
Brake, Parking .......................... .373
Brakes ................................ .375
Brake System ........................ .375, 514
Master Cylinder ....................... .515
Parking ............................. .373
Warning Light ........................ .226
Brake/T
ransmission Interlock .................345
Bulb Replacement ..................... .535, 53610
INDEX 567