2007 Suzuki Aerio Owner's Manual - Page 135

OPERATING YOUR VEHICLE Emergency shifting out of "P" (Park) If you are unable to shift the transaxle out of Park in the normal manner, see "If You Can Not Shift Automatic Transaxle Gearshift Lever Out of "P" (PARK)" in the INDEX for what to do. Manual Transaxle WARNING EXAMPLE • Reduce your speed and downshift to a lower gear before going down a long or steep hill. Downshifting will allow the engine to provide braking. Avoid riding the brakes or they may overheat, resulting in brake failure. • When driving on slippery roads, be sure to slow down before downshifting. Large and sudden changes in engine speed may cause loss of traction, which could cause you to lose control. • Make sure that the vehicle is completely stopped before you shift into reverse. 60A177 Starting off To start off, push in the clutch pedal and shift into 1st gear. After releasing the parking brake, gradually release the clutch. When you hear a change in the engine's sound, slowly press the accelerator while continuing to gradually release the clutch. Shifting All forward gears are synchronized, which provides for quiet, easy shifting. Always push in the clutch pedal fully before shifting gears. Make sure the engine speed does not rise into the red zone of the tachometer. CAUTION • To help avoid clutch damage, do not use the clutch pedal as a footrest while driving or use the clutch to keep the vehicle stationary on a hill. Depress the clutch fully when shifting. • When shifting or starting off, do not race the engine. Racing the engine can shorten engine life and prevent smooth shifting. 6-6