2012 Honda Ridgeline Owner's Manual - Page 285

Automatic Transmission First (1) To shift from second to first, pull the shift lever towards you, then shift to the lower gear. This position locks the transmission in first gear. By upshifting and downshifting through 1, 2, and D, you can operate the transmission much like a manual transmission without a clutch pedal. If you shift into first position when the vehicle speed is above 28 mph (45 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. Shift Lock Release This allows you to move the shift lever out of Park if the normal method of pushing on the brake pedal and pulling the shift lever does not work. 1. Set the parking brake. 2. Make sure the ignition switch is in the LOCK (0) position. Driving 3. Put a cloth on the notch of the shift lock release slot cover to prevent scratches. Using a small flat-tip screwdriver or a metal fingernail file, carefully pry on the notch of the cover to remove it. CONTINUED 277