2005 Ford Five Hundred Owner's Manual - Page 174

Driving Understanding the gearshift positions of the Continuously Variable Transaxle (CVT) (if equipped) The CVT is a fully automatic transaxle that electronically monitors vehicle system inputs and outputs and driver demands to select the desired drive ratio. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions/transaxles, the CVT continually adjusts the optimum overall drive ratio between engine and drive wheels for all operating conditions. As traditional automatic transmissions/transaxles shift up or down in gears, this shifting in gear ratios is noticeable by increasing and decreasing engine RPM which causes a slight energy loss as the gears change. The gear changes can be felt by the driver. With the CVT, there is no energy transfer loss from shifting because there is no gear shifting up or down. Acceleration up to vehicle operating speed is smooth and continuous; uninterrupted by gear shifting. The same holds true for coasting down to idle; smooth and continuous. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions/transaxles, the CVT offers more responsive performance and increased fuel economy. P (Park) This position locks the transaxle and prevents the front wheels from turning. To put your vehicle in gear: • Depress the brake pedal • Move the gearshift lever into the desired gear To put your vehicle in P (Park): 174 2005 Five Hundred (500) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA (fus)