I am under the impression that because of the less straining by the tranny, (ex long shifting with a clutch in a manual car) that it probably is good for the tranny in long term, belts, valaves. With the power button not being used you'll notice an extra gear. It feels like an overdrive. However it doesn't seem to provide any better mileage. I think it is there because most of our torrque is below 3000 rpm. As for the winter button. As I lived in Tahoe for 13 years. I never used but in the worst conditions. It is a cool feature but I never really utilized. Does work. The short wheel base and snappy engine can make the vx unruly in sever conditions.... All in all I think the power button is a mild version of the interceptor what Tone is selling, without adjusting the presssures and torque converter in your car. I have yet to get one but most seem to really dig them.