2009 Nissan Altima Owner's Manual - Page 254

MANUAL TRANSMISSION (if so equipped) 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. To back up, lift up on the shift selector ring 1 and then move it to the R (Reverse) position after stopping the vehicle completely. The shift selector ring 1 returns to its original position when the shift selector is moved to the N (Neutral) position. If it is difficult to move the shift selector into R (Reverse) or 1 (1st), shift into N (Neutral), then release the clutch pedal. Depress the clutch pedal again and shift into R (Reverse) or 1 (1st). CAUTION ● Do not rest your foot on the clutch pedal while driving. This may cause clutch damage. ● Fully depress the clutch pedal before shifting to help prevent transmission damage. ● Stop your vehicle completely before shifting into R (Reverse). ● When the vehicle is stopped with the engine running (for example, at a stop light), shift to N (Neutral) and release the clutch pedal with the foot brake applied. LSD0180 Suggested upshift speeds Shifting To change gears or when upshifting or downshifting, depress the clutch pedal fully, shift into the appropriate gear, then release the clutch slowly and smoothly. To ensure smooth gear changes, fully depress the clutch pedal before operating the shift selector. If the clutch pedal is not fully depressed before the transmission is shifted, a gear noise may be heard. Transmission damage may occur. Start the vehicle in 1st gear and shift to 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th up to 6th gear in sequence according to vehicle speed. The following are suggested vehicle speeds for shifting into a higher gear. These suggestions relate to fuel economy and vehicle performance. Actual upshift speeds will vary according to road conditions, the weather and individual driving habits. 5-16 Starting and driving