Kia Optima: Transaxle Ranges

P (Park)

Always come to a complete stop before shifting into P. This position locks the transaxle and prevents the front wheels from rotating. Always come to a complete stop before shifting into this position.

WARNING

• Shifting into P (Park) while the vehicle is in motion will cause the drive wheels to lock which will cause you to lose control of the vehicle.
• Do not use the P (Park) position in place of the parking brake. Always make sure the shift lever is latched in the P (Park) position so that it cannot be moved unless the lock release button is pushed in, AND set the parking brake fully.
• Before leaving the driver’s seat, always make sure the shift lever is in the P (PARK) position. Set the parking brake fully, shut the engine off and take the key with you. Unexpected and sudden vehicle movement can occur if you do not follow these precautions in the order specified.
• Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle.

CAUTION

The transaxle may be damaged if you shift into P (Park) while the vehicle is in motion.

R (Reverse)

Use this position to drive the vehicle backward.

✽ NOTICE

Always come to a complete stop before shifting into or out of R (Reverse); you may damage the transaxle if you shift into R while the vehicle is in motion, except as explained in “Rocking the Vehicle”, in this manual.

N (Neutral)

With the gearshift in the N position, the wheels and transaxle are not locked. The vehicle will roll freely even if the transfer case is in gear, unless the parking brake or service brakes are applied.

D (Drive)

This is the normal forward driving position. The transaxle will automatically shift through a four-gear sequence, providing the best fuel economy and power.

For extra power when passing another vehicle or climbing grades, depress the accelerator fully, at which time the transaxle will automatically downshift to the next lower gear.

For improved engine performance, the transaxle will not shift into 4th gear until the engine coolant temperature reaches approximately 155°F.