Auto transmission "3"

[markktm]

Well I am the happy owner of a new H3 and have a question about the automatic tranny. Reading the manual states that you can drive in "D" or "3". The "3" setting is for hills, towing and such but can be used for everyday driving. Personally, I like "3" as the shift points seem closer together and the SUV doesn't seem to take as long to get things moving. I know the manual also states that the MPG will be less, but how much less? Any thoughts are appreciated.

[markktm]

Well I am the happy owner of a new H3 and have a question about the automatic tranny. Reading the manual states that you can drive in "D" or "3". The "3" setting is for hills, towing and such but can be used for everyday driving. Personally, I like "3" as the shift points seem closer together and the SUV doesn't seem to take as long to get things moving. I know the manual also states that the MPG will be less, but how much less? Any thoughts are appreciated.

[HummerNewbie]

Sorry, can't help you with your question but welcome and congrats. Post some pics though.

[evldave]

I spent the 1st couple thousand miles driving around in D, but have recently started driving in town in 3. I haven't been paying attention to the gas mileage - I guess I bought a hummer, worrying about a mpg or two isn't on my list of things to pay attention to. I'll start to pay attention and let you know what I find.

As a note, though, my previous vehicle (BMW 325i) had a special computer program that when you were in 3 instead of D, it changed the computer to 'aggressive' and changed shift points, fuel curve, etc - VERY noticeable difference in power, but my gas mileage went down by 2-3 mpg (I was measuring back then).

[Chip]

It will shift down rather easily, riding around in 3 will just cause it to use more fuel. It's low power and running the engine close to redline to keep up goes with the terratory. I do find myself downshifting going downhill to keep from riding the brakes.

They will come out with bigger engines next year, but right now I'm enjoying not getting 12mpg. my other car is the rocket that fills the need for speed.

[fourfourto]

In the snow definitely use 3 otherwise I leave it in D.

[DarthKarl]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by fourfourto:
In the snow definitely use 3 otherwise I leave it in D. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

x2

Whenever I hit the dirt, gravel or snow it goes into 3, otherwise on pavement its in D