1997 Pontiac Grand Am Owner's Manual - Page 77

Ensure the shift lever fully in PARK (P) range before is starting the engine. Your Pontiac has a brake-transaxle shift interlock.You have to fully apply your regular brakes before youcan shift fromPARK (P) when the ignition keyis in the RUN position. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever push -the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) -- as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you wish. (Press the shift lever button before moving the shift lever.) "Shifting Out of See PARK (P)" laterin this section. NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn't connect with the wheels. restart when you're To (N) already moving, use NEUTRAL only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed. I REVERSE (R): Use this gearto back up. I NOTICE: ~~ Shifting toREVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transaxle. Shift toREVERSE (R)only after yourvehicle is stopped. 1 r 1 Shifting outof 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, yourvehicle 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 engineis racing. NOTICE: To rock your vehicle back and forth to get of snow, out ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, "If see You're Stuck: InSand, Mud, Ice orSnow" in the Index. Damage to your transaxle caused shifting out by of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine racing isn't covered by your warranty. 2-22