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.
Shifting Program
Economy mode
When driving at normal acceleration, the transmission control module (TCM) uses a pre-set shifting program, optimized to shift for economy driving. This shifting program is suitable for "normal" driving which provides earlier up shifts and lock-up. In addition the transmission oil pressure is adjusted to provide smooth gear engagement.
Sport mode
In the sport mode shifting program the shifting points are adjusted to provide the best possible performance. Downshifts occur earlier. The transmission control module (TCM) selects the shifting and lock-up points which provide the best possible performance. The transmission switches from economy mode to sport mode in step 1 or step 2 if the accelerator pedal (AP) is pressed down quickly. The conditions are that the throttle opens and the vehicle speed exceeds 50 km/h. As soon as the accelerator pedal (AP) is released to a certain level economy mode is resumed.
Kick-down program
At wide open throttle (WOT) the kick-down function is engaged which provides quick downshifts for maximum performance. In this way a boost of power is achieved when overtaking for example.
Winter mode
Winter mode is selected using the (W) button on the top panel of the gear selector assembly. Winter mode enables starting off in a high gear to prevent the wheels from spinning on a slippery surface. This mode can also be used in other difficult situations in which the driver needs more direct control over gear selection. Lock-up can be engaged in 1st and 2nd gear. The shifting pattern is optimized to minimize the number of shifts. Depending on the gear position, the following combinations can be obtained:
- D The car starts in 2nd gear. Automatic shifting between 2nd and 3rd gears occurs earlier than in Economy mode, D position
- 3 The car starts in 2nd gear. 4th gear is locked out
- 2 The car starts in 2nd gear. There is no up shifting or downshifting
- 1 The car starts in 1st gear. There is no up shifting or downshifting.
The W lamp on the dashboard lights when winter mode is selected.
If kick-down is activated in Winter mode, the transmission uses all gears for maximum performance.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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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.
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