1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Owner's Manual - Page 75

Automatic Transaxle Operation PARK (P): This locks your front wheels. It's the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can't move easily. I Your automatic transaxle may have a shift lever on the steering column or on the console between the seats. Maximum engine speed is limited on automatic transaxle vehicles, when you're inPARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N), to protect driveline components from improper operation. There areseveral different positions foryour shift lever. It is dangerous to get outyour vehicle if the of shift leveris not fully in PARK(P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don't leave yourvehicle when the engineis running unless you have to. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or otherscould 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 in the Index. (P)" If you're pulling a trailer, see "Towing a Trailer" in the Index.