2004 Mazda Tribute Owner's Manual - Page 133

Driving Overdrive - column mounted gearshift with O/D off switch The Overdrive position with the O/D OFF switch not depressed is the R D21 normal driving position for this ODO automatic overdrive transaxle. When your vehicle cruises at a constant speed for any length of time, this fourth gear will increase your fuel economy. Overdrive may not be appropriate for certain terrains. If the transaxle OFF/ON shifts back and forth between third and fourth gears while you are driving hilly roads or if your vehicle requires additional power for climbing hills, press the O/D OFF switch. Each time the vehicle is started, the transaxle will automatically return to normal overdrive mode. If the O/D OFF indicator light is flashing on and off repeatedly when the vehicle is started or does not come on when the O/D OFF control is pressed, there may be a transaxle electronic system malfunction. You should contact your authorized Mazda dealer as soon as possible or damage to the transaxle could occur. When to use D (Drive) or press the O/D OFF switch You will notice that there is only one drive position on your gearshift R D21 indicator (instead of Drive and ODO Overdrive). However, you will find a control labeled OVERDRIVE located on the gearshift lever. Push in the switch and the O/D OFF light in the instrument cluster will illuminate. OFF/ON With the O/D OFF light illuminated, the transaxle will operate in first, second and third gears and will not shift into fourth gear. Operating in D (O/D OFF) provides more engine braking than Overdrive for descending hills or city driving. To return the transaxle to the normal Overdrive operation, press the O/D OFF control again. Use this control to select between Overdrive or D (O/D OFF) whenever you drive your vehicle. 133