Gear selection question?

Question

in a 04 ford taurus, there is a D in a white square ( the main drive ) there is also another D, and a 1. What does these mean? When or Why would i use them?

Answer 1

D with square = Overdrive. It just means that the transmission will shift into overdrive when it can. This uses all the gears, 1-4

D without square = Drive. It means that the transmission will not shift into overdrive. So the only gears used are 1-3, since overdrive is locked out, fuel usage will increase.

The only time you'd want to use Drive is when descending a grade and you don't want to overwork your brakes. Or when towing a trail or in heavy traffic when the transmission shifts in and out of Overdrive constantly.  

Answer 2

This is covered in your manual:

D in white square(Overdrive)

The normal driving position for the best fuel economy. The transaxle

operates in gears one through four.

D (Drive)

• This position allows for all forward gears except overdrive.

• Provides more engine braking than (Overdrive).

• Use when driving conditions cause excessive shifting from O/D to

other gears. Examples: city traffic, hilly terrain, heavy loads, trailer

towing and when engine braking is required.

1 (First)

• Provides maximum engine braking.

• Allows upshifts by moving gearshift lever.

• Will not downshift into 1 (First) at high speeds; allows for 1 (First)

when vehicle reaches slower speeds.

You can get a manual here:

http://www.motorcraftservice.com/vdirs/r...

Answer 3

you would put the car in D (without the square) on steep hills. they call it low gear

Answer 4

In the mountains you will have to down shift on the steep hills.