2004 Buick Century Owner's Manual - Page 89

PARK (P): This position locks the vehicle's front wheels. It is the best position to use when the engine is started because the vehicle cannot move easily. Make sure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting the engine. The vehicle has an automatic transaxle shift lock control system. The regular brakes must be fully applied before shifting from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN. If the vehicle cannot be shifted out of PARK (P), increase pressure on the shift lever by pushing it all the way into PARK (P) while keeping the brake pedal pushed down. Then move the shift lever out of PARK (P). See Shifting Out of Park (P) on page 2-28 Notice: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage the transaxle. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up. To rock the vehicle back and forth in order to get it out of snow, ice, or sand without damaging the transaxle, see If You Are Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow on page 4-30. NEUTRAL (N): In this position, the engine does not connect with the wheels. To restart when the vehicle is already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when the vehicle is being towed. {CAUTION: Shifting into a drive gear while your engine is 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 and hit people or objects. Do not shift into a drive gear while your engine is running at high speed. Notice: Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine racing may damage the transaxle. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Be sure the engine is not racing when shifting your vehicle. 2-23