2005 Dodge Stratus Owner's Manual - Page 147

STARTING AND OPERATING 147 WARNING! It is dangerous to shift the selector lever out of "P" or "N" if the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in reverse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit someone or something. Only shift into gear when the engine is idling normally and when your right foot is firmly on the brake pedal. Automatic Transaxle Ignition Interlock System This system prevents the key from being removed unless the shift lever is in PARK and the shift knob push-button is out. It also prevents shifting out of PARK unless the key is in the OFF or RUN positions. NOTE: If a malfunction occurs, the system may trap the key in the ignition cylinder to warn you that this safety feature is inoperable. The engine can be started and stopped but the key cannot be removed until you obtain service. Four Speed Automatic Transaxle The electronically controlled transaxle provides a precise shift schedule. The transaxle electronics are self calibrating; therefore, the first few shifts on a new vehicle may be somewhat abrupt. This is a normal condition, and precision shifts will develop within a few shift cycles. Reset Mode The transaxle is monitored electronically for abnormal conditions. If a condition is detected that could cause damage, the transaxle shifts automatically into second gear. The transaxle remains in second gear despite the forward gear selected. Park (P), Reverse (R), and Neutral (N) will continue to operate. This Reset feature allows the vehicle to be driven to a dealer for service without damaging the transaxle. In the event that the problem has been momentary, the transaxle can be reset to regain all forward gears. Stop the vehicle and shift into Park (P). Turn the Key to LOCK then restart the engine. Shift into D and resume driving. 5