2004 Dodge Stratus Owner's Manual - Page 183

WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES 183 FREEING A STUCK VEHICLE If your vehicle is equipped with Traction Control, turn the system off before attempting to "rock" the vehicle. If your vehicle becomes stuck in mud, sand or snow, it can often be moved by a rocking motion. Turn your steering wheel right and left to clear the area around the front wheels. Then shift back and forth between Reverse and First gear. Usually the least accelerator pedal pressure to maintain the rocking motion without spinning the wheels is most effective. TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE Flat bed towing is the preferred towing method. If a flat bed towing vehicle is not available, a wheel lift towing vehicle may be used. Rear towing is not recommended with the front wheels on the ground, as transaxle damage can result. If rear towing is the only alternative, a front end dolly must be used. CAUTION! Do not use sling type towing equipment. Damage to the fascia and air dam may result. 6 CAUTION! Racing the engine or spinning the wheels too fast may lead to transaxle overheating and failure. It can also damage the tires. Do not spin the wheels above 30 mph (48 km/h).