1997 Honda Odyssey Owner's Manual - Page 121

Automatic Transmission Park (P) - This position mechanically locks the transmission. Use Park whenever you are turning off or starting the engine. To shift out of Park, you must press on the brake pedal and have your foot off the accelerator pedal. Pull the shift lever towards you, then move it out of Park. If you have done all of the above and still cannot move the lever out of Park, see Shift Lock Release on page 123. You must also pull the shift lever towards you to shift into Park. To avoid transmission damage, come to a complete stop before shifting into Park. The shift lever must be in Park before you can remove the key from the ignition switch. Reverse (R) - To shift to Reverse from Park, see the explanation under Park. To shift to Reverse from Neutral, come to a complete stop and then shift. Pull the shift lever towards you before shifting into Reverse from Neutral. CONTINUED Driving