Mercury 1999 Villager User Manual

Page 161

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Understanding gearshift positions

To account for customer driving habits and conditions, your automatic
transaxle electronically controls the shift feel by using an adaptive
learning strategy. During the first few hundred kilometers (miles) of
operation, it is normal for your transaxle to have abrupt shifts. The
adaptive learning strategy is maintained by power from the battery.
When the battery is disconnected or a new battery is installed, the
transaxle must relearn its adaptive strategy. Optimal shifting will resume
within a few hundred kilometers (miles) of operation.

P (Park)

Always come to a complete stop
before shifting into P (Park). Make
sure the gearshift is securely latched
in P (Park). This locks the transaxle and prevents the front wheels from
rotating.

Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is
securely latched in P (Park).

Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running.

R (Reverse)

With the gearshift in R (Reverse),
the vehicle will move backward. You
should always come to a complete
stop before shifting into and out of R (Reverse).

N (Neutral)

With the gearshift in the N
(Neutral) position, the vehicle can
be started and is free to roll. Hold
the brake pedal down while in this position.

Overdrive — column mounted gearshift with O/D off switch

The Overdrive position with the O/D
OFF switch not depressed is the
normal driving position for this

P

R N D 2 1

P

R N D 2 1

P

R N D 2 1

P

R N D 2 1

Driving

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