Drive vs. Overdrive?

Question

When driving around town (usually 45 mph or less), should i put my automatic 1999 Ford Escort ZX2 in drive (1st-3rd gear) or in overdrive (up to 4th gear)? I've heard both from different people and I wanted to know which one is best. I've been driving in regular drive since I've had it because I thought overdrive was just for 45 mph+ driving. Thanks.

Answer 1

every car is different like every driver.   I say check your owners manual. I have a 97 escort Lx 5 speed. at 45mph i drive in 4th.  if you have an automatic then it probably has D   or   OD.  if it is automatic why worry about this at 45.

Answer 2

>>  should i put my automatic 1999

if it is automatic - leave it in OD.  It will AUTOMATICALLY go in and out of OD as needed.  It will only kick in HWY cruise.  It will NOT go into OD no matter what.

===

OD is essentially just an extra gear.  They us OD moniker as marketing ploy.  It works like ANY other drive gear.  My Audi A4 (auto) has FIVE gears and gets 33 mpg.  But there's no OD moniker.  But that is what it is - that how it gets such good MPG on such heavy car (for its engine).

Good Luck...