1998 Toyota Tercel Owners Manual - Page 77

(b) Using engine braking To use engine braking, you can downshift the transmission as follows: (c) Using the "2" and "L" positions The "2" and "L" positions are used for strong engine braking as described previously. With the selector lever in "2" or "L", you can start the vehicle in motion as with the lever in "D". With the selector lever in "2", the vehicle will start in the first gear and automatically shift to the second gear. With the selector lever in "L", the transmission is engaged in the first gear. D Shift into the "2" position when the vehicle speed is lower than 84 km/h (52 mph). The transmission will downshift to the second gear and more engine braking will be obtained. z Do not continue hill climbing or hard towing for a long time in the "2" or "L" position. This may cause severe automatic transmission damage from overheating. To prevent such damage, "D" position should be used in hill climbing or hard towing. (d) Backing up 1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop. 2. With the brake pedal held down with your foot, shift the selector lever to the "R" position. D Shift into the "L" position when the vehicle speed is lower than 39 km/h (24 mph). The transmission will downshift to the first gear and maximum engine braking will be applied. NOTICE CAUTION Be careful when downshifting on a slippery surface. Abrupt shifting could cause the vehicle to spin or skid. z Be careful not to overrev the engine. Watch the tachometer to keep engine rpm from going into the red zone. The approximate maximum allowable speed for each position is given below for your reference: NOTICE Never shift into reverse while the vehicle is moving. "2" ...100 km/h (62 mph) "L" ...55 km/h (34 mph) 77