need to know when touse overdrive

Asked by Greycyn Jan 06, 2012 at 01:26 PM about the 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4WD

Question type: General

2 Answers

7,255

You can just leave your OD on at all times. Though you don't really need it at city speeds, (less than 45 mph). Or you can turn if off if you're struggling going up steep grades on the freeway. Really optional to have it on, though gives you better gas mileage at higher speeds when used.

9 people found this helpful.
2,715

Keep in mind that when you press the button your turning it OFF not on. Everytime you start the car it will allow itself to engage overdrive. Overdrive is essentially allowing the wheels to turn faster than what the engine is producing creating lower rpms and better mpg. However as Matt said if your driving on hills and the transmission is 'gear hunting' then you may want to consider pushing the button, however do not use at highway speeds for prolonged periods. It can be helpful to turn overdrive OFF when driving in snow or ice to increase natural engine braking, while keeping in mind to use gas even more sparingly as you may lose traction easier.

21 people found this helpful.

Your Answer:

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    Hornet_2497
    Reputation
    8,960
  • #2
    Gene Arnett
    Reputation
    7,010
  • #3
    thejeepdoctor
    Reputation
    6,560
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Dodge Durango
46 Great Deals out of 2,266 listings starting at $5,500
Used Jeep Wrangler
145 Great Deals out of 5,071 listings starting at $5,450
Used Jeep Cherokee
97 Great Deals out of 1,654 listings starting at $3,950
Used Ford F-150
321 Great Deals out of 14,968 listings starting at $1,712
Used Chevrolet Tahoe
24 Great Deals out of 911 listings starting at $11,900
Used Ford Explorer
86 Great Deals out of 2,065 listings starting at $2,999
Used Toyota 4Runner
10 Great Deals out of 304 listings starting at $9,700
Used Chevrolet Corvette
29 Great Deals out of 1,060 listings starting at $15,871

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.