Saturn 2004 Ion - Manual (Page 89)

Automatic Transaxle Operation
Five-Speed Automatic and VTi Variable
If your vehicle is equipped with either the five-speed
automatic transaxle or the VTi variable automatic
transaxle, the shift lever is located on the console
between the seats.
There are several different positions for the automatic
transaxle.
PARK (P): This position locks your front wheels.
It’s the best position to use when you start your engine
because your vehicle can’t move easily.
{ CAUTION:
It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the
shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the
parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll.
Do not leave your vehicle when the engine is
running unless you have to. If you have left
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
the engine running, the vehicle can move
suddenly. You or others could be injured.
To be sure your vehicle will not move, even
when you are on fairly level ground, always set
your parking brake and move the shift lever to
PARK (P). See Shifting Into Park (P) (Automatic
Transaxle) on page 2-31. If you are pulling a
trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 4-39.
Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting
the engine. Your vehicle has an automatic transaxle shift
lock control system. You have to fully apply your regular
brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the
ignition key is in RUN. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P),
ease pressure on the shift lever – push the shift lever all
the way into PARK (P) and also release the shift lever
button as you maintain brake application. Then move the
shift lever into the gear you wish. Press the shift lever
button before moving the shift lever. See Shifting Out of
Park (P) (Automatic Transaxle) on page 2-33.
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