1998 Chevrolet Cavalier Owner's Manual - Page 97

Ensure the shift lever fully in PARK (P) range before is starting the engine.Your vehicle has a brake-transaxle shift interlock.You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift fromPARK (P) when the ignition key is in RUN. If you cannot shift outof ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the PARK (P), shift lever all the way into PARK (P) and also release the shift leverbutton on floor shift console models as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever intothe gear you wish. (Press the shift leverbutton before moving the shift lever.) See "Shifting Out of PARK (P)" in the Index. 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 your vehicle is being towed. REVERSE (R):Use this gearto back up. NOTICE: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transaxle. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped. To rock your vehicle backand forth to get outof snow, ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see or "Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice Snow" in the Index. Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is"racing" (running at high speed)is dangerous. Unlessyour foot isfirmly on the brake pedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could losecontrol and hitpeople or objects. Don'tshift out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing. I NOTICE: Damage to your transaxle caused by shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine racing isn't covered byyour warranty. 2-21