Gear Selector and Mode Selector

Gear selector and mode selector

Gear selector




The gear selector is mechanically connected to the transmission by a cable, which operates the gear selector valve in the control system. A mode selector located on the gear selector makes it possible for the driver to switch between three different shifting modes: ECON (Economy), SPORT (Sport) and WINTER (Winter).
The gear selector has 6 positions, with the following functions:
- P Park position.
- R Reverse.
- N Neutral.
- D Automatic shifting between all gears. (Not applicable when mode selector is in WINTER position).
- 3 In this position the 4th gear is blocked. The warning light on instrument panel lights. Automatic shifting occurs between the other gears. (Not applicable when mode selector is in WINTER-position.)
- L In this position only the 1st and 2nd gears operate. The warning light on the instrument panel lights. Automatic downshifting occurs, but upshifting is inhibited. If the gear selector is moved to position L at a road speed exceeding approximately 25-40 km/h (ECON) or 10-15 km/h (SPORT) 2nd gear will be engaged. If the speed is reduced to below approx. 25-40 km/h (ECON) or 10-15 km/h (SPORT) downshifting to 1st gear will occur, but upshifting will not occur, regardless of vehicle speed. (The speed variations depend on which engine the transmission is used with and do not apply when the WINTER mode is selected.)

Mode selector




The mode selector has a toggle switch for ECON and SPORT modes and a push-button for WINTER mode. The ECON and SPORT selector remains in the selected position. In contrast, the WINTER button is spring-loaded and can be depressed without affecting the other selector setting. Selecting ECON mode will automatically deselect SPORT mode, while the WINTER mode can be selected regardless of the position of the ECON/SPORT button. WINTER mode will remain in operation until the button is pressed again, the toggle switch position is changed or the ignition is switched off. When the car is started again the program ECON or SPORT will be used, depending on the button position.
ECON Mode (Economy)
This shifting program is intended for "normal" driving and provides early upshifting combined with lock-up. In addition, the transmission line pressure is modulated to provide smooth gear engagement. At Wide Open Throttle (WOT), the kickdown function is engaged and shifting occurs at higher engine speed to provide a power boost, for example, when overtaking.
SPORT Mode (Sport)
In Sport mode, the shifting points are designed to provide maximum performance. As long as acceleration is gently applied, shifts occur as for Economy mode. During increased acceleration, the control module selects the shift and lock-up points for the best possible performance. Kickdown can be activated if necessary.
WINTER Mode (Winter)
Winter mode makes it possible to start driving in high gear to avoid wheel-spin on slippery roads. This mode is also applicable in other problem situations in which the driver needs a more direct control over gear selection. Lock-up is engaged in all gears except 1st gear. Depending on the gear position, the following combinations can be obtained:
- D The car starts in 3rd gear. Automatic shifting between 3rd and 4th gears occurs earlier than in ECON mode, D position.
- 3 The car starts in 2nd gear. No up- or downshifting occurs.
- L The car starts in 1st gear. No up- or downshifting occurs.
When Winter mode is selected, the warning light on the instrument panel lights.
If kickdown is activated in Winter mode, the transmission uses all gears for maximum performance.