What is my car's overdrive function for?

Question

I have a Nissan Maxima. I've found it is useful for adding some extra power and speed when I need it. My mom thinks it's for saving gas on the highway.

Answer 1

Your mother is correct. Sometimes, you need the extra torque at some speeds (OD usually kicks in at 50-65mph) and some times you need it to stay in 3rd.

Answer 2

Your mother is right.
Standard shift vehicles have three shifts forward and one reverse, which gives you an 'H' shift pattern.
Cars with overdrive have four shifts forward.
Standard transmission cars have a lever that moves the position of the forks that changes gears, starting out in low, to second to high gear - to overdrive on cars that have it.
The engine RPMs clue you when it's time to shift.
If you have a tachometer that shows engine RPM.
If you don't, you can tell by the sound of the motor and the 'drag' in the car's acceleration when it's time to shift up.
After a few times behind the wheel, the shifting gets easier.

Answer 3

When in overdrive the engine is turning slower than the wheels - saving gas, but when you punch the gas pedal it should shift down into a lower gear giving you added power and torque you need to quickly accelerate.

Answer 4

Overdrive in the cruise mode allows the transmission to use higher gearing while at cruise speed saving fuel.

Answer 5

YOUR MOTHER IS RIGHT