1996 GMC Savana Van Owner's Manual - Page 75

Automatic Transmission Operation There are several different positions for your shift lever. A CAUTION: It is dangerous to get out your vehicle if the of PARK (P) with the shift lever is not fully in parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don't leave your vehicle when the engine is running unlessyou have to. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others couldbe injured. To be sure your vehicle won't move, even when you're on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P). See "Shifting Into PARK (P)" in the Index. If you're pulling a trailer,see "Towing a Trailer" in the Index. Your vehicle has a brake-transmission shift interlock. With the ignition in the RUN position, you must fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P). If your vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission, it now features an electronic shift position indicator within the instrument cluster. This display must be powered anytime the shift lever is capable of being moved out of the PARK (P) position. This lneans that if your key is in the OFF position, but not locked, there will be a small current drain on your battery which could discharge your battery over a period of time. If you have a need to leave your key in the ignition in the OFF position for an extended period for any reason, it is recomnlended that you disconnect the battery cable from the battery to prevent discharging y o ~ battery. ~r PARK (P): This locks your rear wheels. It's the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can't move easily. 2-17