2001 Nissan Sentra Owner's Manual - Page 121

● Do not downshift abruptly on slippery roads. This may cause a loss of control. The automatic transmission in your vehicle is electronically controlled to produce maximum power and smooth operation. The recommended operating procedures for this transmission are shown on the following pages. Follow these procedures for maximum vehicle performance and driving enjoyment. Starting the vehicle ● After starting the engine, fully depress the foot brake pedal before shifting the shift selector lever to the D (Drive), R (Reverse), 2 or 1 position. Be sure the vehicle is at a complete stop before attempting to shift the shift selector lever. ● Keep the foot brake pedal depressed and shift into a driving gear. ● Release the foot brake, then gradually start the vehicle in motion. The automatic transmission is designed so the foot brake pedal MUST be depressed before shifting from P (Park) to any drive position while the ignition switch is ON. The shift selector lever cannot be moved out of P (Park) and into any of the other gear positions if the ignition key is turned to LOCK or if the key is removed. The shift selector lever can be moved if the ignition switch is in the ON position and the foot brake pedal is depressed. WSD0006 Shifting Push the button to shift into P (Park), R (Reverse) or from D (Drive) to 2. All other positions can be selected without pushing the button. P (Park): Use this selector position when the vehicle is parked or when starting the engine. Always be sure the vehicle is at a complete stop. For maximum safety, depress the brake pedal, then push in the shift selector lever button and move the lever to the P (Park) position. Apply the parking brake. When parking on a hill, apply the parking brake first, then shift the lever into the P (Park) position. Shifting from P (Park) If the ignition switch is in the ON position and the foot brake pedal is depressed, but the shift selector lever still cannot be moved 5-8 Starting and driving