1997 Pontiac Sunfire Owner's Manual - Page 78

Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) range before starting the engine. Your Pontiac has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition key is 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) and also release the shift lever button on floor shift console models 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.) See "Shifting Out of PARK (B)" in the Index. REVERSE (R):Use this gear to back up. NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn't connect with the wheels. To restart when you're already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when YQW vehicle is beingtowed. NOTICE: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transaxle. Shift to REVERSE only after yourvehicle (R) is stopped. To rock your vehicle back m d forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see "If You're Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow" in the Index, out of PARK (P) NEUTRAL (N) or while your engine is "racing" '(runningat high speed) is dangerous. Unless your foot firmly on is the brake pedal,your vehicle 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 engine is racing. Sh J r I NOTICE: Damage to your transaxle caused shifting out by of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine racing isn't covered by your warranty.