Hi all,

I was driving my 04 Outlander in Sportronic shift mode and, while accelerating, clicked it down into 2nd from 3rd instead of going into 4th. (My other vehicle is a stick, so I'm used to 4th being "down.")

Anyway, as expected, the revs shot way up as the engine tried to match the wheel speed. I don't think it hit the red line, and it was only for a second or two, but I'm wondering if there is any potential for engine damage. I haven't noticed anything abnormal since then.

I've read about BMW engines breaking from overreving, but I'm hoping my 4G69 isn't that fragile. Any thoughts?

Thanks.

Firstly the transmission computer won't let you downshift if it is dangerous to do so and the only danger is if your timing belt is tired it might snap on you. Mitsubishi recommends changing the timing belt and balance belt at 55000miles. Now if you do happen to downshift and have your foot on the floor and if you end up in high revs the ECM will shut down fuel supply and therefore let that Mustang pass you. HA! HA! Your Outlander is redlined at 6500 rpm only because it has Air conditionning. This is to avoid the serpentine belt from jumping a pulley. The non air Mitsubishis with this same motor are redlined at 7500 rpm and even have a 9K on the gage. Hope this helps.

Thanks, Outy.

Despite the "manual" shifting, I figured the computer wouldn't let me screw things up too much. My belt is still good for about another 10k miles, so no problems there. Thanks for the explanation though. I appreciate it.