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

7,185

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.
2,705

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
    8,800
  • #2
    Gene Arnett
    Reputation
    6,960
  • #3
    thejeepdoctor
    Reputation
    6,480
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Dodge Durango
51 Great Deals out of 1,842 listings starting at $9,998
Used Jeep Wrangler
135 Great Deals out of 5,961 listings starting at $2,995
Used Jeep Cherokee
102 Great Deals out of 1,946 listings starting at $6,499
Used Ford F-150
286 Great Deals out of 14,098 listings starting at $3,888
Used Toyota 4Runner
19 Great Deals out of 528 listings starting at $7,700
Used Ford Explorer
56 Great Deals out of 1,799 listings starting at $2,888
Used Chevrolet Tahoe
14 Great Deals out of 789 listings starting at $6,730
Used Chevrolet Camaro
16 Great Deals out of 478 listings starting at $11,999

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.