MITSUBISHI ENDEAVOR 2010 1.G Owners Manual

3-42 Features and controls
3
NOTE
If the brake pedal is not depressed and held, the shift-lock
device activates to prevent the selector lever from being
moved from the “P” (PARK) position.
Selector lever position indicator/ “N” indicator
N00513900239

Always depress the brake pedal when shifting the
selector lever into a gear from the “N” (NEUTRAL)
position. When beginning to drive, do not shift the
selector lever from the “N” (NEUTRAL) position
while depressing the accelerator pedal. This will
cause the vehicle to “jump” forward or backward.
WA R N I N G
!
A- Selector lever position indicator
When the ignition key is turned to the “ON” position, the
indicator in the instrument cluster comes on to show the
position of the selector lever (i.e. “PARK”, “DRIVE”,
“REVERSE”, etc.).
B- “N” indicator
If the “N” indicator blinks with the “D” (DRIVE) position or
“Sports mode” being selected, the automatic transaxle may
be malfunctioning.
Have your vehicle inspected by an authorized Mitsubishi
Motors dealer or a repair facility of your choice as soon as
possible.
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Features and controls
3-43
3
Automatic transaxle fluid temperature warning
light
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The automatic transaxle fluid temperature warning light comes
on when the automatic transaxle fluid temperature becomes
abnormally high. Normally the warning light comes on when
the ignition key is turned to the “ON” position, and then will go
out after a few seconds.
Selector lever positions (Main gate)
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“P” PARKThis position locks the transaxle to prevent the vehicle from
moving. The engine can be started from the “PARK” position.“R” REVERSEMove the lever to this position only after the vehicle has come
to a complete stop.
CAUTION
!
If the light comes on while driving, reduce the
engine speed and stop the vehicle in a safe area.
Then set the selector lever to “P” (PARK) position
and idle the engine until the warning light goes off.
When the warning light goes off, resume normal
driving. If the warning light does not go off, have
your vehicle inspected by an authorized Mitsubishi
Motors dealer or a repair facility of your choice.
CAUTION
!
Never shift into the “P” (PARK) or “R”
(REVERSE) position while the vehicle is in motion.
If the lever is shifted into the “P” or “R” position
while the vehicle is in motion, the transaxle may be
damaged.
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3-44 Features and controls
3
“N” NEUTRALAt this position, the transaxle is disengaged. It is the same as
the neutral position on a manual transaxle and should be used
when the vehicle is not moving for an extended length of time
during driving, such as in a traffic jam.“D” DRIVEThis position is used for most city and highway driving. Engine
shifting and braking are done automatically as needed, depend-
ing on road conditions.NOTE
For information on manual gate operation, please refer to
“Sports mode” on page 3-44.
Sports mode
N00514400172
Whether the vehicle is stationary or in motion, sports mode is
selected by pushing the selector lever from the “D” position
into the manual gate. To return to “D” range operation, push
the selector lever back into the main gate.
In sports mode, gear shifts can be made rapidly simply by mov-
ing the selector lever backward and forward. Sports mode
allows gear shifts with the accelerator pedal depressed.Manual gate+ (SHIFT UP)
Push the lever forward once to shift up one gear.
- (SHIFT DOWN)
Pull the lever backward once to shift down one gear.
WA R N I N G
!
Never move the selector lever to the “N” (NEU-
TRAL) position while driving since you could acci-
dentally slip it into the “P” (PARK) or “R”
(REVERSE) position, damaging the transaxle.
To prevent the vehicle from rolling when stopped on
a slope, the engine should be started in the “P”
(PARK) position, not in “N” (NEUTRAL).
Always keep your foot on the brake pedal when the
vehicle is in “N” (NEUTRAL), or when shifting into
or out of “N” (NEUTRAL), to prevent rolling.
SHIFT UP
SHIFT DOWN
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Features and controls
3-45
3
NOTE
In sports mode, only the 4 forward gears can be selected.
To reverse or park the vehicle, move the selector lever to
the “R” (REVERSE) or “P” (PARK) position in the main
gate.

To maintain the required levels of vehicle performance
and safety, the system may not execute certain gear shifts
when the selector lever is operated, such as 4th gear at low
speed.

In sports mode, downward shifts are made automatically
when the vehicle slows down. When the vehicle stops, 1st
gear is automatically selected.

When pulling away from a standstill on a slippery road,
push the selector lever forward to the + (SHIFT UP) posi-
tion. This causes the transaxle to select 2nd gear, which is
better for safe driving on slippery roads. Push the selector
lever to the - (SHIFT DOWN) side to shift back to 1st
gear.
Move the selector lever gently between the manual and
main gates and between positions in the manual gate.
Excessive force could damage the selector lever.

When sports mode is selected, the “D” indicator goes out.
Sports mode indicator
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In sports mode, the currently selected gear is indicated by the
indicator shown on the instrument cluster.
CAUTION
!
Upward shifts do not take place automatically in
sports mode. The driver must make upward shifts in
accordance with prevailing road conditions, making
sure the engine rpm remains below the red zone on
the tachometer.
By rapidly moving the selector lever backwards
(SHIFT DOWN) twice, it is possible to skip one gear
(i.e., 3rd to 1st or 4th to 2nd). Since sudden engine
deceleration or acceleration can cause a loss of trac-
tion, downshifts must be made carefully in accor-
dance with the vehicle’s speed.
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3-46 Features and controls
3
Operation of the automatic transaxle
N00514500229
Passing accelerationTo gain extra acceleration in “D” (DRIVE) position (when
passing another vehicle) push the accelerator to the floor. The
automatic transaxle will automatically downshift.NOTE
In sports mode, downshifts do not take place when the
accelerator is depressed all the way to the floor.WaitingFor short waiting periods, such as at traffic lights, the vehicle
can be left in gear and held stationary with the service brake.
For longer waiting periods with the engine running, the selec-
tor lever should be placed in the “N” (NEUTRAL) position.ParkingTo park the vehicle, first bring it to a complete stop, fully
engage the parking brake, and then move the selector lever to
the “P” (PARK) position.
CAUTION
!
Before selecting a gear with the engine running and
the vehicle stationary, fully depress the brake pedal
to prevent the vehicle from creeping.
The vehicle will begin to move as soon as the gear is
engaged, especially when the engine speed is high, at
fast idle or with the air conditioning operating, the
brakes should only be released when you are ready
to drive away.
Depress the brake pedal with the right foot at all
times.
Using the left foot could cause driver movement
delay in case of an emergency.
To prevent sudden acceleration, never run the
engine at high rpms when shifting from the “P”
(PARK) or “N” (NEUTRAL).
Operating the accelerator pedal while the other foot
is resting on the brake pedal will affect braking effi-
ciency and may cause premature wear of brake
pads.
Do not rev the engine with the brake pedal pressed.
This can damage the transaxle.
CAUTION
!
To avoid transaxle overheating, never try to keep
your vehicle stationary on a hill by using the acceler-
ator pedal. Always apply the parking brake and/or
service brake.
Unexpected acceleration may occur if the selector
lever is in a position other than “P” (PARK) or “N”
(NEUTRAL).
Prior to moving off after having stopped the vehicle,
make sure that the selector lever is in “D” (DRIVE)
position or “Sports mode” position.
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Features and controls
3-47
3
When the automatic transaxle makes no gear changeIf the transaxle does not change gears while driving, or your
vehicle does not pick up enough speed when starting on an
uphill slope, it may be that there is something unusual happen-
ing in the transaxle, causing a safety device to activate. Have
your vehicle checked at an authorized Mitsubishi Motors
dealer or a repair facility of your choice as soon as possible.
1. If your vehicle has difficulty moving uphill, shift the
selector lever into 2nd gear of the sports mode.
This method might not work depending on the type of
transaxle malfunction.
2. Once the vehicle is moving on a level road, move the
selector lever back to “D” (DRIVE).NOTE
When the “N” indicator in the instrument cluster blinks, it
means that there is an abnormal condition in the transaxle.
Refer to “Selector lever position indicator/“N” indicator”
on page 3-42.
Full-time all-wheel drive
(if so equipped)
N00517200025
Your vehicle has been designed primarily for use on pavement.
But its unique all-wheel drive system allows you to occasion-
ally travel on unpaved roads, to campgrounds, picnic sites, and
similar locations.
Not only does this ensure better handling on dry, paved roads
but also permits better traction when driving on slippery, wet or
snow-covered roads and when moving out of mud.
But it is not suitable for heavy off road use or towing in rough
conditions.
It is particularly important to note that full-time all-wheel drive
may not give sufficient hill climbing ability and engine braking
on steep slopes. You should try to avoid driving on steep slopes
with full-time all-wheel drive.
Also, you must exercise caution when driving on sand and mud
and when driving through water because sufficient traction
may not be available in certain circumstances.
Please avoid driving the vehicle through areas where the tires
may get stuck in deep sand or mud.
All-wheel drive operation requires special driving skills.
Carefully read the “All-wheel drive operation” section on page
3-48 and take care to drive safely.
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3-48 Features and controls
3All-wheel drive operation
N00530600101
All-wheel drive vehicles provide better traction and control
than front-wheel drive vehicles on slippery surfaces (for exam-
ple, snow, sand, mud etc.). However, their capabilities are not
without limits.
When using all-wheel drive on rough roads (snow, sand, mud
etc.), it is important to operate the vehicle correctly.
NOTE
Driving on rough roads can be hard on a vehicle. Before
you leave the pavement, be sure all scheduled mainte-
nance and service has been done, and that you have
inspected your vehicle. Pay special attention to the condi-
tion of the tires, and check the tire pressures.

Mitsubishi is not responsible to the operator for any dam-
age or injury caused or liability incurred by improper and
negligent operation of a vehicle. All techniques of vehicle
operation depend on the skill and experience of the opera-
tor and other participating parties. Any deviation from the
recommended operating instructions above is at their own
risk.

Note that the stopping distance required of the all-wheel
drive vehicle differs very little from that of the front-
wheel drive vehicle. When driving on a snow-covered
road or a slippery, muddy surface, make sure that you
keep a sufficient distance between your vehicle and the
one ahead of you.

The driving posture should be more upright; adjust the
seat to a good position for easy steering and pedal opera-
tion. Be sure to wear the seat belt.

After driving on rough roads, check each part of the vehi-
cle and wash it thoroughly with water. Refer to the
“Inspection and maintenance following rough road opera-
tion” section and “Vehicle care and maintenance” sec-
tions.Driving on snowy or icy roadsGradually depress the accelerator pedal for a smooth start.NOTE
The use of snow tires is recommended.
WA R N I N G
!
Do not over-rely on the all-wheel drive vehicles.The
all-wheel drive vehicles, like any other system, has
limits and cannot help you to maintain traction and
control of the vehicle in all circumstances.
Reckless driving can lead to accidents. Always drive
carefully, taking into account the traffic, road and
environmental conditions.
Improperly operating this vehicle on or off-pave-
ment can cause an accident or rollover in which you
and your passengers could be seriously injured or
killed.
• Follow all instructions and guidelines in the
owner’s manual.
• Keep your speed low and don’t drive faster than
conditions permit.
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Features and controls
3-49
3

Maintain a safe distance between vehicles, avoid sudden
braking, and use engine braking (downshifting).Driving on sandy or muddy roads Gradually depress the accelerator pedal for a smooth start.
Keep the pressure on the accelerator pedal as constant as possi-
ble, and drive at low speed.
NOTE
Avoid sudden braking, acceleration, and turning; such
operations could result in the vehicle becoming stuck.

If the vehicle becomes stuck in sandy or muddy roads, it
can often be moved with a rocking motion. Move the
selector lever alternately between “Sports mode” and “R”
(REVERSE) position, while applying slight pressure to
the accelerator pedal.

Driving rough road can cause rust on the vehicle; wash the
vehicle thoroughly as soon as possible after such use.Climbing/descending sharp gradesYour vehicle may not provide sufficient hill climbing ability
and engine braking on steep slope. Avoid driving on steep
slopes even though your vehicle has full-time all-wheel drive.Turning sharp cornersOn rough roads, the basic turning technique is to drive at a low
speed and gradually steer to suit the surface.
CAUTION
!
Avoid sudden braking, sudden acceleration, and
sharp turning; such operations could cause skidding
and loss of control.
CAUTION
!
Do not force the vehicle or drive recklessly on sandy
surfaces. In comparison with normal road surfaces,
the engine and other drive-system components are
put under excessive strain when driving on such a
surface. This could lead to accidents.
If the needle in the temperature gauge approaches
the overheating zone or the “N” indicator starts to
blink quickly (i.e., about twice every second) while
the vehicle is being driven, immediately locate a safe
place, stop the vehicle there, and begin the appropri-
ate procedure to rectify the overheating problem.
(Refer to the “Engine overheating” on page 6-5 and
the “Automatic transaxle fluid temperature warning
light” on page 3-43.)
WA R N I N G
!
When attempting to rock your vehicle out of a stuck
position, be sure that the area around the vehicle is
clear of people and physical objects. The rocking
motion may cause the vehicle to suddenly launch
forward or backward, causing injury or damage to
nearby people or objects.
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3-50 Features and controls
3
Driving through water
N00537800069
If the electrical circuits become wet, further operation of the
vehicle will be impossible; therefore, avoid driving through
water unless absolutely necessary. If driving through water is
unavoidable, use the following procedure:
Check the depth of the water and the terrain before attempting
to drive through it. Drive slowly to avoid creating excessive
water splashing.
Inspection and maintenance following
rough road operation
N00530700072
After operating the vehicle in rough road conditions, be sure to
perform the following inspection and maintenance procedures:

Check that the vehicle has not been damaged by rocks,
gravel, etc.

Carefully wash the vehicle with water.
Drive the vehicle slowly while lightly depressing the
brake pedal in order to dry out the brakes. If the brakes
still do not function properly, contact an authorized Mit-
subishi Motors dealer or a repair facility of your choice as
soon as possible to have the brakes checked.

Remove the insects, dried grass, etc. clogging the radiator
core.

After driving through water, check the engine, transaxle
and differential oil. If the oil or grease is milky or cloudy
because of water contamination, it must be replaced with
new oil.

Check the inside of the vehicle. If water entry is found,
dry the carpet etc.

Inspect the headlights. If water is in the headlight housing,
have it drained at an authorized Mitsubishi Motors dealer
or a repair facility of your choice.

Have an authorized Mitsubishi Motors dealer or a repair
facility of your choice replace the grease in the wheel
bearings.
CAUTION
!
Never drive through water that is deep enough to
cover wheel hubs, axles or exhaust pipe. Do not
change gears while driving through water.
Frequent driving through water can adversely affect
the life span of the vehicle; consult an authorized
Mitsubishi Motors dealer or a repair facility of your
choice and take the necessary measures to prepare,
inspect, and repair the vehicle.
After driving through water, apply the brakes to be
sure they are functioning properly. If the brakes are
wet and not functioning properly, dry them out by
driving slowly while lightly depressing the brake
pedal. Inspect each part of the vehicle carefully.
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Features and controls
3-51
3 Cautions on the handling of all-wheel drive
vehicles
N00530800129
Tires and wheelsSince the driving torque can be applied to the four wheels, the
driving performance of the vehicle when operating in all-wheel
drive is greatly affected by the condition of the tires.
Pay close attention to the tires.

Install only the specified tires on all wheels. Refer to
“Tires and wheels” on page 9-7.

Be sure all four tires and wheels are the same size and
type.
When it is necessary to replace any of the tires or wheels,
replace all four.

All tires should be rotated before the wear difference
between the front and rear tires is recognizable.
Good vehicle performance cannot be expected if there is a dif-
ference in wear between tires. Refer to the “Tire rotation” on
page 7-27.

Check the tire inflation pressure regularly.
CAUTION
!
Always use tires of the same size, type, and brand
that have no wear differences. Using tires of differ-
ent size, type, brand or degree of wear, will increase
the differential oil temperature and result in possi-
ble damage to the driving system. Further, the drive
train will be subject to excessive loading, possibly
leading to oil leakage, component seizure, or other
serious problems.
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