1997 Nissan Altima Owner's Manual - Page 100

1 (Low gear): Use this position when climbing steep hills slowly or driving slowly through deep snow, sand or mud, or for maximum engine braking on steep downhill grades. Do not shift into the 1 position at speeds over 41 MPH (66 km/h). Do not exceed 41 MPH (66 km/h) in the 1 position. Accelerator downshift - In D position - For rapid passing or hill climbing, fully depress the accelerator pedal to the floor. This shifts the transmission down into second gear or first gear, depending on the vehicle speed. ASD0511 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 comes on at this time. 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 fuel economy. OVERDRIVE SWITCH ON: For normal driving, push the overdrive switch ON with the selector lever in the D position. The transmission is upshifted into OVERDRIVE as the vehicle speed increases. The overdrive does not engage until the engine has warmed up. 4-8