Pontiac 2004 GTO - Manual (Page 80)

DRIVE (D): This is the most effective position for
normal or freeway driving. This position gives maximum
fuel efficiency, as the transmission can choose the
appropriate gear (1 through 4) for the existing load and
driving conditions.
After selecting DRIVE (D) from PARK (P) or
NEUTRAL (N), pause for a moment before accelerating,
to allow the transmission to engage the forward gear.
Use this position when towing.
THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving.
However, it offers more power and lower fuel economy
than DRIVE (D). Here are some times you might choose
THIRD (3) instead of DRIVE (D):
• When driving on hilly, winding roads.
• When towing a trailer, so there is less shifting
between gears.
• When going down a steep hill.
SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but
lower fuel economy than THIRD (3). You can use
SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as
you go down steep mountain roads, but then you
would also want to use your brakes off and on.
FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power
but lower fuel economy than SECOND (2). You can use
it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the
shift lever is put in FIRST (1), the transmission
won’t shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slowly
enough.
Remember to move the shift lever back to DRIVE(D) so
that the transmission again upshifts into higher gears.
Even though the shift lever may be in FIRST (1),
the transmission does not select first gear until vehicle
speed is less that 35 mph (56 km/h).
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