1996 Pontiac Sunfire Owner's Manual - Page 71

Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) range before starting the engine. Your Pontiac has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition key is in the RUN position. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on theshift lever -- push the shift leverall the wayinto PARK (P) and also release the shift lever button on floorshift console models asyou maintain brake application. Then move the shift leverinto the gear you wish. (Press the shift lever button before moving the shift lever.) See ".Shifting Out of PARK (PI" in the Index. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up. NEUTRAL (N): I this position, your enginedoesn't n connect with the wheels. To restart when you're already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed. A CAUTION: . NOTICE: Shifting to REVERSE while your vehicle (R)' is moving forward could damage your transaxle. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped. To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see "If You're Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow" in the Index. Shifting outof PARK (P) or NEUTRAL(N) while your engine is "racing" (running at high speed) is dangerous. Unless your footfirmly on the is bralie pedal, your vehicle could move very people rapidly. You could lose control and hit or objects. Don't shift outof PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing. NOTICE: Damage to your transaxle caused shifting out by of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine racing isn't covered by your warranty.