2005 Chevrolet Colorado Owner's Manual - Page 103

If you need to leave your key in the ignition but not in LOCK for an extended period, it is recommended that you disconnect the battery cable from the battery to prevent discharging your battery. There are several different positions for your shift lever. PARK (P): This position locks your rear wheels. It is the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle cannot move easily. Make sure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting the engine. Your vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock control system. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition key is in ON. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever by pushing the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you want. See Shifting Out of Park (P) (Automatic Transmission) on page 2-32. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up. Notice: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage the transmission. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped. To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transmission, see If You Are Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow on page 4-41. {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. Do not 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 will not move, even when you are on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P). See Shifting Into Park (P) (Automatic Transmission) on page 2-30. If you are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 4-56. 2-21