STARTING AND OPERATING 129 CAUTION! transmission overheating or failure due to excessive shifting. When operating in TOW/HAUL mode, transmission upshifts are delayed, and the transmission will automatically downshift (for engine braking) when the throttle is closed and/or during steady braking maneuvers. WARNING! When using ERS for engine braking while descending steep grades, be careful not to over speed the engine. Apply the brakes as needed to prevent engine overspeed. Do not use the TOW/HAUL feature when driving in icy or slippery conditions.
The increased engine braking can cause the rear wheels to slide, and the vehicle to swing around with the possible loss of vehicle control, which may cause an accident possibly resulting in personal injury or death. Overdrive Operation The automatic transmission includes an electronically controlled Overdrive (FIFTH and SIXTH gears). The transmission will automatically shift into Overdrive if the following conditions are present: Torque Converter Clutch 4 A feature designed to improve fuel economy has been included in the automatic transmission on your vehicle. A clutch within the torque converter engages automatically at calibrated speeds.
This may result in a slightly different feeling or response during normal operation in the upper gears. When the vehicle speed drops or during some accelerations, the clutch automatically disengages. The gear selector is in the DRIVE position. The transmission fluid has reached an adequate temperature. TOW/HAUL Switch The engine coolant has reached an adequate temperature. The TOW/HAUL Indicator Light will illuminate in the instrument cluster to indicate that TOW/HAUL mode has been activated. Pushing the switch a second time restores normal operation. Normal operation is always the default at engine start-up.
If TOW/HAUL mode is desired, the switch must be pushed each time the engine is started. Vehicle speed is sufficiently high. The TOW/HAUL switch has not been activated. NOTE: The driver is not heavily pressing the acceler The torque converter clutch will not engage, until the transmission fluid and engine coolant are warm (usually after 1 to 3miles (2 to 5km) of driving). Because engine speed is higher when the torque converter clutch is not engaged, it may seem as if the transmission is not shifting properly when cold; this is normal. Using the Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift ator.
When To Use TOW/HAUL Mode When driving in hilly areas, towing a trailer, carrying a heavy load, etc., and frequent transmission shifting occurs, push the TOW/HAUL switch to activate TOW/HAUL mode. This will improve performance and reduce the potential for