2011 Chevrolet Cruze Owner's Manual - Page 224

9-28 Driving and Operating The transmission will only allow you to shift into gears appropriate for the vehicle speed and engine revolutions per minute (rpm). The transmission will not automatically shift to the next lower gear if the engine rpm is too high, nor to the next higher gear when the maximum engine rpm is reached. If shifting is prevented for any reason, the currently selected gear will flash multiple times, indicating that the transmission has not shifted gears. While in the DSC mode, the transmission will automatically downshift when the vehicle comes to a stop. This will allow for more power during take-off. When accelerating the vehicle from a stop in snowy and icy conditions, you may want to shift into second gear. A higher gear allows the vehicle to gain more traction on slippery surfaces. Manual Transmission Shift Pattern Notice: Do not rest your foot on the clutch pedal while driving or while stopped. The pressure can cause premature wear in the clutch. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. 1 (First): Press the clutch pedal fully to the pedal stop and shift into 1 (First). Then slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. If you come to a complete stop and it is hard to shift into 1 (First), put the shift lever in Neutral and let up on the clutch. Press the clutch pedal back down. Then shift into 1 (First). 2 (Second): Press the clutch pedal fully to the pedal stop as you let up on the accelerator pedal and shift into 2 (Second). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. All Models Except Fuel Economy Model Fuel Economy Model These are the shift patterns for the six-speed manual transmissions. To operate the transmissions: Notice: Do not rest your hand on the shift lever while driving. The pressure could cause premature wear in the transmission. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.