2005 Dodge Stratus Owner's Manual - Page 150

150 STARTING AND OPERATING 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 for automatic transaxle vehicles, or reverse for vehicles with 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. 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 transaxle 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. You should always apply the parking brake before leaving the vehicle. Parking Brake