1998 Nissan Maxima Owner's Manual - Page 123

the parking brake first, then shift the lever into the P (Park) position. When stopping the vehicle on an uphill grade, do not hold the vehicle by depressing the accelerator pedal. The foot brakes should be used for this purpose. R (Reverse): Use this position to back up. Always be sure the vehicle is completely stopped. With the brake pedal depressed, push in the select lever button and move the lever to the R (Reverse) position N (Neutral): Neither forward nor reverse gear is engaged. The engine can be started in this position. You may shift to N (Neutral) position and restart a stalled engine while the vehicle is moving. D (Drive): Use this position for all normal forward driving. 2 (Second gear): Use for hill climbing or engine braking on downhill grades. Do not exceed 73 MPH (117 km/h) in the 2 (Second gear) position. 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. SD1003M Shifting Push the button to shift into P, R or from D to 2. All other positions can be selected without pushing the button. P (Park): Use this selector position when the vehicle is parked or when starting the engine. Always be sure the vehicle is at a complete stop. For maximum safety, depress the brake pedal, then push in the select lever button and move the lever to the P (Park) position. Apply the parking brake. When parking on a hill, apply 5-8 Starting and driving