2005 Dodge Neon Owner Manual - Page 121
2005 Dodge Neon Manual
Page 121 highlights
STARTING AND OPERATING 121 CAUTION! If you skip more than one gear while downshifting or downshift at too high an engine speed, you could damage the engine, transaxle, or clutch. To maintain a safe speed and prolong brake life, shift down to 2nd or 1st when descending a steep grade. When turning a corner, or driving up a steep grade, shift down early so that the engine will not be overburdened. PARKING BRAKE When the parking brake is applied with the ignition on, the Brake Light in the instrument cluster will come on. NOTE: This light only shows that the parking brake is on. It does not show the degree of brake application. Before leaving the vehicle, make sure that the parking brake is set. To set the parking brake, pull up firmly on the lever. Also place the gear selector in the Park position (automatic transaxle) or Reverse (manual transaxle). To release the parking brake, apply the brake pedal and pull up on the parking brake lever. Push the release button and lower the lever fully. 5 Parking Brake Lever When parking on a hill, it is important to set the parking brake before placing the gear selector in Park, otherwise the load on the transmission locking mechanism may make it difficult to move the selector out of Park. As an added precaution, turn the front wheels toward the curb on a downhill grade and away from the curb on a uphill grade.