2005 Dodge Stratus Owner's Manual - Page 142

142 STARTING AND OPERATING STARTING PROCEDURES Before starting your vehicle, adjust your seat, adjust both inside and outside mirrors, and fasten your seat belts. Automatic Transaxle The gear selector must be in the NEUTRAL or PARK position before you can start the engine. Apply the brakes before shifting to any driving gear. Manual Transaxle Fully apply the parking brake, press the clutch pedal to the floor and place the gear selector in NEUTRAL before starting the engine. Normal Starting Normal Starting of either a cold or a warm engine does not require pumping or depressing the accelerator pedal. Simply turn the key to the "START'" position and release when the engine starts. If the engine has not started within 3 seconds, slightly depress the accelerator pedal while continuing to crank. If the engine fails to start within 15 seconds, turn the key to the "OFF" position, wait 10 to 15 seconds, then repeat the normal starting procedure. CAUTION! Long periods of engine idling, especially at high engine speeds can cause excessive exhaust temperatures which can damage your vehicle. Do not leave your vehicle unattended with the engine running. WARNING! Do not leave children or animals inside parked vehicles in hot weather. Interior heat build up may cause serious injury or death.