2003 Honda CR-V Owner's Manual - Page 209

Automatic Transmission When the Over-drive is off, the transmission selects only the first three gears. Turn the O/D off to provide engine braking when going down a steep hill. You can also avoid the transmission from cycling between third and fourth gears in stop-and-go driving. The O/D OFF indicator also comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch to ON(II). Second (2) This position locks the transmission in second gear. It does not downshift to first gear when you come to a stop. Second gives you more power when climbing, and increased engine braking when going down steep hills. Use second gear when starting out on a slippery surface or in deep snow. It will help reduce wheelspin. First (1) With the lever in this position, the transmission locks in First gear. By upshifting and downshifting through 1, 2, and D, you can operate this transmission much like a manual transmission without a clutch pedal. If you shift into First position when the vehicle speed is above 31 mph (50 km/h), the transmission shifts into Second gear first to avoid sudden engine braking. Engine Speed Limiter If you exceed the maximum speed for the gear you are in, the engine speed will enter into the tachometer's red zone. If this occurs, you may feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine's computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the RPM below the red zone. 208 Driving