Selector and Shift Patterns

The AODE shift selector has six positions.

(P) Park

There is no powerflow through the transmission in park range. The parking pawl locks the output shaft to the case, preventing the vehicle from rolling. However, for safety reasons, the vehicle parking brake should also be used whenever the vehicle is parked. The engine can be started in the park range. In addition, park must be selected before the ignition key can be removed.

(R) Reverse

Reverse gear enables the vehicle to be operated in a rearward direction, at a reduced ratio.

(N) Neutral

As in park range, there is no powerflow through the transmission in neutral. However, the vehicle's wheels are free to move because the output shaft is not held by the parking pawl. The engine may be started in neutral, but the ignition key cannot be removed while the vehicle is in this range.

(D) Overdrive

Overdrive is the normal selector position for most forward driving conditions. This position provides automatic upshifts and downshifts through all four gears, application of the torque converter clutch, and maximum fuel economy during normal operation.

(D) Drive


Selection of the drive position provides all automatic shifts as stated for overdrive, except into fourth gear (overdrive). Application of the converter clutch may also occur in this range, depending on transmission and vehicle conditions. This position can be selected when overdrive is not wanted, such as driving in hilly or mountainous terrain, going into a strong headwind, or towing a trailer. Drive also provides more engine braking than overdrive range.


(1) Manual Low


Selection of manual low position with the vehicle stationary will allow first gear operation only (no upshifts). If this position is selected at normal road speeds, the transmission will initially downshift into second gear, then downshift into first gear when vehicle speed falls below approximately 32 km/h (20 mph).


The manual low position will provide engine braking making it especially useful for descending steep grades. In addition, the converter clutch is always released in manual low.


Brake/Shifter Interlock System


All vehicles equipped with the AODE will use a brake/shifter interlock system. The system is designed so that the driver must depress the brake pedal to move the shift lever out of park (P) range. The system does not require that the brake be depressed when shifting into or out of neutral range.