9010 - Function ranges A. Selector-lever positions, B. Shift operations Automatic transmission 722.3/4/5

"P" Parking interlock and start position

The output shaft is blocked by a parking interlock ratchet. The car cannot roll away. The parking interlock is blocked at speeds above 10 km/h. It must only be engaged when the car is stationary. The engine can be started.

On cars fitted with parking shift lock, the selector lever is locked when the ignition key is withdrawn and the service brake is not applied. The ignition key can only be withdrawn when the selector lever is in position "P".

"R" Reverse gear

Selector lever position "R" is blocked when travelling forward at speeds in excess of 10 km/h. It must only be engaged when the car is stationary.

"N" Neutral and start position

No power is transmitted from the engine to the rear axle. When the brakes are released, the car is free to move (pushing, towing and tow-starting). Selector lever position "N" must not be engaged when travelling. The engine can be started.

"D" Direct (normal driving)

All forward speeds are available. Optimal driving performance in all normal driving situations.

"4" (5-speed transmission only)

Upshifts are only possible up to 4th gear. Correct position for performance-oriented driving.

"3" Hill climbing

Upshifts are only possible up to 3rd gear. Correct position on long moderate inclines and descents. The braking effect of the engine can be utilized in 3rd gear.

"2" Load

Upshifts are only possible up to 2nd gear. Correct position for driving over steep mountain passes, when towing a trailer in mountainous regions and when driving in aggravated operating conditions.

Mode selector switch positions

"S" Standard mode

"E" Economy mode

Comfortable motoring with minimal gear
shifts
See also mode selector switch (27-9290).

"B" Braking position

Upshifts are only possible to 2nd gear. Correct position for extreme descents and long mountainous passes, particularly when towing a trailer. The transmission shifts into 1st gear if speed is below approx. 40 km/h. This gear is maintained up to approx. 60 km/h. The braking effect of the engine is utilized in 1st and 2nd gear.

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Do not exceed the maximum speed in the individual selector lever positions.

Refer to the markings on the speedometer.

Selector lever position 2 up to marking "II"

Selector lever position 3 up to marking "III"

Shift down only (braking shift) once the speed of the car is not higher than the maximum permissible speed in the desired selector lever position. Overrevving damages the engine. Avoid performing a selector lever downshift (braking shift) on smooth roads (e.g. from "D" to "3" to "2").

Forward gears are engaged automatically, depending on the speed of the car and position of the accelerator pedal.

Accelerator pedal position:

light throttle: transmission shifts up early

sharp throttle: transmission shifts up late

Downshifts in the kickdown position are only possible in the particular speed range. The shift points of the individual car models and transmission versions differ. Refer to the technical literature for shift point data.