overdrive off button

[bigdig]

can anyone explain the "Overdrive Off" feature for me? I've got a 2001 QX4 with the 5 speed auto transmission.

My interpretation of "overdrive" is when towing or climbing up hill, selecting overdrive will cause the transmission to select a gear lower than usual. that would cause higher rpms and more torque to get up the hill.

Except, my truck always starts with overdrive on. Surely infinti doesn't think I'm always towing things. Can someone talk some sense into me?

[NISTECH]

You have got that wrong. The overdrive is for fuel economy and is defaulted for on. This feature is for when you get on the high way or even city streets above a certain speed and maintain it. Once you achive that steady speed the torque converted goes into lock up and your rpms will drop to save you fuel.

When climbing a hill or towing something you should deselect the over drive as it will cause the car to go in and out of lock up frequently to maintain a steady speed. This will cause a higher rate of fuel consumption.

[QX4ME]

QX4 has a 5-speed auto. It's a 4-speed auto.