Operation Manual

Manual transaxle (if so equipped)
Features and controls 5-61
5
Press the clutch pedal all the way down and
shift into 1st or “R” (Reverse) position. Then
gradually release the clutch pedal while
depressing the accelerator pedal.
N00537400049
Always use care to change the gear with the
vehicle speed matched to the engine speed.
Proper shifting will improve fuel economy
and prolong engine life.
N00548101027
Always use care to change the gear with the
vehicle speed matched to the engine speed.
Proper shifting will improve fuel economy
and prolong engine life.
Avoid shifting down at high speed, as this
may cause excessive engine speed (the
tachometer needle into the red zone) and
damage the engine.
NOTE
 During cold weather, shifting may be diffi-
cult until the transaxle lubricant has warmed
up. This is normal and not harmful to the
transaxle.
To start
CAUTION
 Do not move the gearshift lever into reverse
while the vehicle is moving forward; doing
so will damage the transaxle.
 Do not rest your foot on the clutch pedal
because this will cause premature clutch
wear or damage.
 Do not coast in the “N” (Neutral) position
(illegal in many states).
 Do not use the gearshift lever as a handrest,
because this can result in premature wear of
the transaxle shift forks.
NOTE
 If it is hard to shift into 1st, depress the
clutch pedal a second time; the shift will then
be easier.
 To shift into reverse from 5th gear, move the
gearshift lever to the “N” (Neutral) position,
and then shift it into reverse.
Proper shift points
CAUTION
 Avoid downshifting that may cause the
tachometer pointer to enter the red zone.
This puts the engine at risk of being dam-
aged.
CAUTION
Changing gears while the vehi-
cle is moving
NOTE
 The gearshift indicator shows recommended
gearshift points for fuel-efficient driving. It
shows a “ ” when an upshift is recom-
mended, and it shows a “ ” when a down-
shift is recommended.