1999 GMC Sonoma Owner's Manual - Page 78

yellowblue NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn't connect with the wheels. To restart when you're already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. DRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you're: D Going less than about 35 mph (55 km/h), push your accelerator pedal about halfway down. accelerator all the way down. CAUTION: Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is "racing" (running at high speed) is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects. Don't shift out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing. D Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the You'll shift down to the next gear and have more power. DRIVE (D) should not be used when towing a trailer, carrying a heavy load, driving on steep hills, or for off-road driving. Select THIRD (3) when operating the vehicle under any of these conditions. THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving, however it offers more power and lower fuel economy than DRIVE (D). You should use THIRD (3) when towing a trailer, carrying a heavy load, driving on steep hills or winding roads or for off-road driving. SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy than THIRD (3). You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on. You can also use SECOND (2) for starting your vehicle from a stop on slippery road surfaces. NOTICE: Damage to your transmission caused by shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine racing isn't covered by your warranty. 2-20