Here's how overdrive works in an automatic transmission:
* It's an extra gear ratio: Modern automatic transmissions typically have 4-10 gears. Overdrive is simply the highest gear, designed for fuel efficiency at highway speeds.
* The transmission automatically selects overdrive: The transmission's computer (or hydraulic system in older cars) decides when to shift into overdrive based on factors like:
* Speed
* Throttle position
* Engine load
You don't need to do anything to use overdrive. The transmission handles it for you.
However, some cars have an "OD OFF" button:
* This button temporarily disables overdrive for situations where you need more power, like towing or climbing hills.
* When you press the "OD OFF" button, the transmission will stay in a lower gear, providing more engine braking and acceleration.
In summary:
* Overdrive is an automatic feature of your transmission.
* You don't need to manually engage it.
* The transmission will decide when to use overdrive based on driving conditions.
* An "OD OFF" button is optional and allows you to temporarily disable overdrive for specific situations.
