Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Winter Mode
Winter mode is obtained by using WINTER mode switch on center console, near gearshift lever. Winter mode is activated when all of the following conditions are present.
- Accelerator opening is approximately 8 percent or less.
- Kickdown switch is off.
- Gearshift lever is in "D" position.
- Transmission fluid temperature is 120°F (248°C) or less.
- Vehicle speed is 7 MPH or less.
- WINTER mode switch is on.
When in Winter mode, transmission starts off in 3rd gear to aid in vehicle traction on ice and snow. When Winter mode is selected with ignition on, WINTER DRIVE indicator light will illuminate. WINTER DRIVE indicator light is located in instrument cluster. Winter mode is canceled when any of the following conditions are present.
- Ignition is turned off.
- Gearshift lever is placed in "3", "2" or "L" position.
- Transmission fluid temperature is 140°F (284°C) or greater.
- Vehicle speed exceeds 22 MPH.
- WINTER mode switch is turned off.
Winter mode should only by used on slippery road conditions. Operation of Winter mode during normal driving conditions will result in decreased performance and sluggish acceleration.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.