2004 Mercury Mountaineer Owner's Manual - Page 148

Driving D (Drive) with Overdrive The normal driving position for the best fuel economy. Transmission operates in gears one through five. D (Drive) without Overdrive Overdrive can be deactivated by pressing the transmission control switch on the end of the gearshift lever. • This position allows for all forward gears except overdrive. • O/D OFF lamp is illuminated. O/D OFF • Provides engine braking. • Use when driving conditions cause excessive shifting from O/D to other gears. Examples: city traffic, hilly terrain, heavy loads, trailer towing and when engine braking is required. • To return to O/D (overdrive mode), press the transmission control switch. The O/D OFF lamp will not be illuminated. • O/D (Overdrive) is automatically returned each time the key is turned off. 3 (Third) Transmission operates in third gear only. Used for improved traction on slippery roads. Selecting 3 (Third) provides engine braking. 2 (Second) Use 2 (Second) to start-up on slippery roads or to provide additional engine braking on downgrades. 1 (First) • Provides maximum engine braking. • Allows upshifts by moving gearshift lever. • Will not downshift into 1 (First) at high speeds; allows for 1 (First) when vehicle reaches slower speeds. 148 2004 Mountaineer (mnt) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)