o/d off light

[mojoworker]

hi all -
another question from a new owner of a 98 le.
the default is overdrive on: does shutting it off
get the car better mileage? what are other reasons
to shift out of default mode?

thanks -

chris

[dpassino]

As far as I know, having O/D Off keeps the car from shifting into the final gear. Basically it won't go past 3rd gear. As a rule of thumb, when I'm stuck in traffic on the highway or what not, I go O/D Off this way the tranny isn't constantly shifting into 4th and then back down..back up.. back down... less wear on it. If you're cruising along however keep O/D on for a smoother and better mileage ride...

I.e.... If you're going 60 with O/D on you'll notice your around the 2100 rpm mark. If you turn it off, it'll bump to around 3k.....Lower RPM better mileage. (at least what I've been told and go by)

[fleurys]

according also to the owner's manual, if you tow anything heavy (I would say past the 2000lbs mark), it's recommended to leave OD off so that the automatic transmission does not wear prematurely.
S.