Automatic Transmission OperationThe automatic transmission may have a shift leverlocated either on the steering column or on the consolebetween the seats.There are several different positions for the shift lever.P (Park): This position locks the front wheels. It isthe best position to use when you start the enginebecause the vehicle cannot move easily.{ WARNING:It is dangerous to get out of the vehicle if the shiftlever is not fully in P (Park) with the parking brakefirmly set. The vehicle can roll.Do not leave the vehicle when the engine isrunning unless you have to. If you have left theengine running, the vehicle can move suddenly.You or others could be injured. To be sure thevehicle will not move, even when you are on fairlylevel ground, always set the parking brake andmove the shift lever to P (Park). See Shifting IntoPark on page 3-31. If you are pulling a trailer, seeTowing a Trailer on page 5-26.Make sure the shift lever is fully in P (Park) beforestarting the engine. The vehicle has an automatictransmission shift lock control system. You have to fullyapply the regular brakes before you can shift fromP (Park) while the ignition key is in ON/RUN. Ifyou cannot shift out of P (Park), ease pressure on theshift lever. Push the shift lever all the way into P (Park)as you maintain brake application. Then move theshift lever into another gear. See Shifting Out of Park onpage 3-32.3-27
