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I try not to let the engine speed drop below 2000 RPM. At
that point I downshift. An exception is 2nd while in
traffic (and, obviously 1st). 2nd can pull from 1500RPM
but the higher gears can not.
5th gear is something I use 65MPH or higher. I have used 5th
at 35 on a slight downhill grade just to see what difference
there is in milage (I have the trip computer with instant
milage). It does make a difference; but, you have to be ready
to shift to 3rd (or 2nd) if you want to accelerate.
For normal (slow) traffic flow I shift when the tac is between
3500 and 4000 RPM.
If she is in too high a gear she is "lugging" the engine and
that is not good for it. My wife also tends to shift to early.
Seems to be in a rush to get to 5th gear (as though it is
required goal any time the car is rolling).
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