1997 Nissan Altima Owner's Manual - Page 101

DRIVING WITH MANUAL TRANSMISSION WARNING ● Do not downshift abruptly on slippery roads. This may cause a loss of control. ● Do not over-rev the engine when shifting to a lower gear. This may cause a loss of control or engine damage. CAUTION SD1022 vary according to road conditions, the weather and individual driving habits. For normal acceleration in low altitude areas (less than 4,000 ft [1,219 m]): Gear change 1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th ACCEL shift point MPH (km/h) 15 (24) 25 (40) 36 (58) 40 (64) CRUISE shift point MPH (km/h) 15 (24) 18 (29) 30 (48) 39 (63) Shifting with manual transmission To change gears, fully depress the clutch pedal, and then move the gearshift lever. After shifting, release the clutch pedal slowly. You cannot shift directly from 5th gear into Reverse (R). First shift into Neutral (N), then into Reverse (R). If it is difficult to move the shift lever into R or 1st, shift into N, then release and depress the clutch pedal again and shift into R or 1st. ● Do not rest your foot on the clutch pedal while driving. This may cause clutch damage. ● Stop your vehicle completely before shifting into R. ● When the vehicle is stopped for a duration, for example at a stop light, shift to N and release the clutch pedal with the foot brake applied. For quick acceleration in low altitude areas and high altitude areas (over 4,000 ft [1,219 m]): Gear change 1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th MPH (km/h) 15 (24) 25 (40) 40 (64) 45 (72) Suggested shift-up speeds Shown below are suggested vehicle speeds for shifting into a higher gear. These suggestions relate to fuel economy and vehicle performance. Actual shift-up speeds will 4-9 Suggested maximum speed in each gear Downshift to a lower gear if the engine is not running smoothly, or if you need to accelerate.