number 2 on automatic transmission shifter

[Olivier02]

Hi ! I have a gmc safari 2005 SLT AWD 4.3 Automatic and i was wondering if it was normal that if i put the shifter on the number 2, it seems to start with the second gear and not with the first one. If i put it on the number 1, it will stay on the first gear ; on number 3, it will stop at the third speed, but i was guessing that on the number 2 it should go on the first gear and the second.

i don't know if it's clear but thanks a lot !

[Leeann_93]

Ummmmm....that's how it's supposed to work.

1 means first gear
2 means second gear
3 means third gear and also means drive, so 1-3 but no overdrive
D means all gears, including overdrive
N means neutral
R means reverse
P means park.

[markmitch]

I must agree with LeeAnn

[MechBob]

Starting off in 2nd gear used to be a big thing, for when you are stuck.A slower start off, less chance of tires spinning.I haven't kept up on the newest stuff, but this feature will be gone soon.

[SportsBoy]

I knew what 3 and 1 did, but had never used 2 when starting from a start actually, so glad I saw this - good to know!