2000 Ford Explorer Sport Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 163

Driving Forced Downshifts To gain acceleration in (Overdrive) or Drive (O/D OFF) when passing another vehicle, push the accelerator to the floor. The transmission will downshift to the appropriate gear: third, second or first gear. Driving with a 5-speed automatic transmission (if equipped) Your automatic transmission electronically controls the shift feel by using an adaptive learning strategy. This feature is designed to increase durability, and provide consistent shift feel over the life of the vehicle. It is normal for a new transmission to shift firmly. This operation is considered normal and will not affect function or durability of the transmission. Once the vehicle is at operating temperature it may take several shifts at the same operating condition for the transmission to properly adapt. Over time the adaptive learning process will fully update transmission operation. The more varied the driving habits, speed and torque, the longer it may take to adapt but the more complete the process will be. When the battery is disconnected or a new battery installed, the transmission must learn its adaptive strategy. As a result of this, the transmission may shift firmly. This operation is considered normal and will fully update transmission operation to its optimum shift feel. Understanding gearshift positions Hold the brake pedal down while you move the gearshift lever from P (Park) to another position. If you do not hold the brake pedal down, your vehicle may move unexpectedly and injure someone. P (Park) To put your vehicle in gear, start the engine, depress the brake pedal, then move gearshift lever out of P (Park). Always come to a complete stop before shifting into P (Park). Make sure the gearshift lever is securely latched in P (Park). This position locks the transmission and prevents the rear wheels from turning. 163