2003 Chevrolet Cavalier Owner's Manual - Page 93

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 appiyyour regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) whenthe 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 on floor shift console models 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 Transaxie) on page 2-30. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up. Notice: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transaxle. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicleis stopped. NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn't connect with the wheels. To restart when you're already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed. Shifting into a drive gear while your engine is "racing" (running at high speed) is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brakepedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects. Don't shift into a drive gear while your engine is racing. Notice: Damage to your transaxle caused by shifting into a drive gear with the engine racing isn't covered by your warranty. To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see if You Are Stuck: in Sand, Mud, ice or Snow on page 4-29. 2-24