1997 Ford Contour Owner's Manual - Page 133

pressed, the transaxle control indicator light will illuminate (O/D OFF) on the instrument panel. When this O/D OFF is illuminated the transaxle will upshift and downshift from first through third gears and provide coast braking in second and third gears. To return the transaxle to normal operation (first through fourth gears) depress the TCS again. This switch may be used to cancel overdrive any time the vehicle is being driven. Each time your vehicle is started, the overdrive system will automatically be in the normal overdrive mode and the light will not be illuminated. When to use D (Overdrive - without Transaxle Control Switch Activated) D (Overdrive) is the usual driving position for an automatic overdrive transaxle. It automatically upshifts or downshifts as the vehicle speeds or slows. However, D (Overdrive) also shifts into a fourth gear - an overdrive gear - when your vehicle cruises at a consistent speed for any length of time. This fourth gear will increase your fuel economy when you travel at cruising speeds. When to use D (Drive - with Transaxle Control Switch activated) D (Overdrive) may not be appropriate for certain terrain. If the transaxle shifts back and forth between third and fourth gears while you are driving on hilly roads or if your vehicle requires additional power for climbing hills, depress the TCS. D (Drive) also gives more engine braking to slow your vehicle on downgrades than D (Overdrive). 134