Driving on Grades

Notice: Do not tow on steep continuous grades exceeding 6 miles (9.6 km). Extended, higher than normal engine and transmission temperatures may result and damage the vehicle. Frequent stops are very important to allow the engine and transmission to cool.

Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before starting down a long or steep downgrade. If the transmission is not shifted down, the brakes might have to be used so much that they would get hot and no longer work well.

On a long uphill grade, shift down and reduce the vehicle’s speed to around 45 mph (70 km/h) to reduce the possibility of the engine and the transmission overheating. If the engine does overheat, see Engine Overheating.

    See also:

    Fuel System Messages
    FUEL LEVEL LOW This message displays when the vehicle is low on fuel. Refuel as soon as possible. TIGHTEN GAS CAP This message displays when the fuel cap is not on tight. Tighten the fuel c ...

    Hazard Warning Flashers
    (Hazard Warning Flasher): Press and momentarily hold this button located on the instrument panel above the climate control system, to make the front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off. ...

    Rear Seat Entertainment System
    Your vehicle may have a DVD Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) system. The RSE system includes a DVD player, a video display screen, two sets of wireless headphones, and a remote control. ...