1998 Lexus ES 300 Owners Manual - Page 143

STARTING AND DRIVING (f) Good driving practice D If the transmission repeatedly upshifts and downshifts between the third and overdrive gears when climbing a gentle slope, turn off the overdrive switch. Be sure to turn the switch on immediately after climbing the slope. D When towing a trailer, in order to maintain efficient engine braking and electrical charging performance, do not use overdrive. (g) Rocking your vehicle if stuck CAUTION If your vehicle becomes stuck in snow, mud, sand, etc., then you may attempt to rock the vehicle free by moving it forward and backward. Do not attempt this procedure if people or objects are anywhere near the vehicle. During the rocking operation the vehicle may suddenly move forward or back as it becomes un-stuck, causing injury or damage to nearby people or objects. CAUTION Always keep your foot on the brake pedal while stopped with the engine running. This prevents the vehicle from creeping. NOTICE Do not hold the vehicle on an upgrade with the accelerator pedal. This can cause the transmission to overheat. Always use the brake pedal or parking brake. NOTICE If you rock your vehicle, observe the following precautions to prevent damage to the transmission and other parts. D Do not depress the accelerator pedal while shifting the selector lever or before the transmission is completely shifted to forward or reverse gear. D Do not race the engine and avoid spinning the wheels. D If your vehicle remains stuck after rocking the vehicle several times, consider other ways such as towing. (h) If you cannot shift the selector lever out of "P" position If you cannot shift the selector lever from "P" position even though the brake pedal is depressed, use the shift lock override button. For instructions, see "If you cannot shift automatic transmission selector lever" on page 177. 143