When to use it:
* Highway driving (55 mph and above): This is the primary use case. Overdrive reduces engine strain and improves fuel efficiency at sustained higher speeds.
When NOT to use it:
* Towing or hauling heavy loads: Overdrive reduces engine power, which can make it difficult to maintain speed or accelerate when towing or carrying significant weight. You'll likely need to turn it off for better engine performance.
* Steep hills or mountainous terrain: Similar to towing, the reduced power from overdrive can make climbing hills challenging or even impossible. Disengage overdrive for better climbing performance.
* Low speed driving or city driving: Overdrive isn't necessary or beneficial at lower speeds, and may even cause sluggish acceleration.
* When you need extra engine braking: Overdrive reduces engine braking, which can be helpful on downhill stretches. Turning it off provides more engine braking, assisting with controlling speed and reducing brake wear.
Ultimately, the best time to use overdrive is when the conditions allow for it without compromising performance or safety. Pay attention to your engine and the vehicle's behavior. If the engine is struggling or you feel like you need more power, disengage the overdrive.
