1997 Pontiac Grand Prix Owner's Manual - Page 94

Make sure the shift lever is fully into PARK (P) range before starting the engine. Your Pontiac has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You must fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressureon the shift leverby pushing it all the way into PARK (P) while keeping the brake pedal pushed down. Release the shift lever button if you have a console shift. Then move the shift lever outof PARK (P), being sure to press the shift lever button if you have a console shift. See "Shifting Out of PARK (P)" in the Index. NEUTRAL (N):In this position, your engine doesn't connectwith the wheels. To restart when you're already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed. REVERSE (R): Use this gear toback up. I NOTICE: moving forward could damage your transaxle. only after your vehicle Shift to REVERSE (R) is stopped. 1 I Shifting out of 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, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose 'control hit people and or objects. Don't shift out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing. ~ I I Shifting to REVERSE (R)while your vehicle is I To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see "Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow" in the Index, ~ ~~ I NOTICE: I I - I Damage to your transaxle caused by shifting out I of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine racing isn't covered by your warranty. 2-20