1996 Nissan Altima Owner's Manual - Page 87

DRIVING WITH MANUAL TRANSMISSION OFF: For driving up and down long slopes where engine ''braking'' would be advantageous, push the switch OFF. When cruising at a low speed or climbing a gentle slope, you may feel uncomfortable shift shocks as the transmission shifts between 3rd and overdrive repeatedly. In this case, set the overdrive switch in the OFF position. The O/D OFF indicator light on the instrument panel will come on at this time. ASD0511 When driving conditions change, reset the overdrive switch to the ON position. Remember not to drive at high speeds for extended periods of time with the overdrive switch set in the OFF position. This reduces the fuel economy. SD1022 Overdrive switch ON: For normal driving, push the overdrive switch ON with the shift lever in the ''D'' position. The transmission will shift into OVERDRIVE as the vehicle speed increases. To change gears, fully depress the clutch pedal, and then move the gearshift lever. After shifting, release the clutch pedal slowly. On the 5-speed transmission model, you cannot shift directly from 5th gear into Reverse. First shift into Neutral, then into Reverse. If it is difficult to move the gear shift lever into Reverse or First, shift into Neutral, then release and depress the clutch pedal again and shift into Reverse or First. The overdrive will not engage until the engine has warmed up. Driving precautions ● Do not rest your foot on the clutch pedal 4-8