1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme Owner's Manual - Page 75

Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) range before starting the engine. Your Oldsmobile has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You have to apply your regular brake before you can shift fromPARK (P) when the ignition key is in ON. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) -- as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you wish. (Press the shift lever button before moving the shift lever.) See "Shifting Out of PARK (P)" later in this section. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up. NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn't connect with the wheels. To restart when you're already moving, useNEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed. I I NOTICE: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transaxle. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after yourvehicle is stopped. 1 Shifting outof PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is "racing" (running at high speed) is dangerous. Unless your footis firmly on the brake pedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects. Don't shift out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engineis racing. NOTICE: Do not shift out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine racing. Your transaxle can be damaged by doing thisand will not be covered by your warranty. Shift your transaxle according to the instructions in this manual. To rock your vehicle back and forth to get of out snow, ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see "If You're Stuck:In Sand, Mud,Ice or Snow"in the Index.