2000 Cadillac Escalade Owner's Manual - Page 95

Automatic Transmission Operation PARK (P): This locks your rear 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 have four-wheel drive, your vehicle will be free to roll -- even if your shift lever is in PARK (P) -- if your transfer case is in NEUTRAL. So, be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear -- not in NEUTRAL. See "Four-Wheel Drive (Automatic Transfer Case)" in the Index. If you're pulling a trailer, see "Towing a Trailer" in the Index. There are several different positions for your shift lever. Your vehicle features an electronic shift position indicator within the instrument cluster. This display must be powered anytime the shift lever is capable of being moved out of PARK (P). This means that if your key is in the OFF position, rather than LOCK, there will be a small current drain on your battery which could discharge your battery over a period of time. If you need to leave your key in the OFF position for an extended period for any reason, it is recommended that you disconnect the battery cable from the battery to prevent discharging your battery. 2-27