2000 Pontiac Sunfire Owner's Manual - Page 86

Automatic Transaxle Operation Your vehicle may be equipped with a three-speed automatic transaxle or a four-speed automatic transaxle. The shift lever is located on the console between the seats. There are six different positions for the shift lever on the three-speed automatic and seven positions for the four-speed automatic transaxle. While PARK (P), REVERSE (R) and NEUTRAL (N) operate identically for both transaxles, the forward gear positions represent different gearing and operation. See "Forward Gears (3-Speed)" or "Forward Gears (4-Speed)" later in this section. PARK (P): This position locks your front wheels. It's the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can't move easily. CAUTION: It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don't leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won't move, even when you're on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P). See "Shifting Into PARK (P)" in the Index. If you're pulling a trailer, see "Towing a Trailer" in the Index. 2-20