2009 Dodge Avenger Owner Manual - Page 275

STARTING AND OPERATING 273 4-Speed/6-Speed Automatic Transaxle - If Equipped The electronically controlled transaxle provides a precise shift schedule. The transaxle electronics are selfcalibrating; 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 hundred miles. Gear Ranges PARK Supplement to the parking brake by locking the transaxle. The engine can be started in this range. Never attempt to use PARK while vehicle is in motion. Apply parking brake when leaving vehicle in this range. When parking on a flat surface, place the shift lever in the PARK position first, and then apply the parking brake. When parking on a hill, it is important to set the parking brake before placing the shift lever in PARK, otherwise the load on the transaxle locking mechanism may make it difficult to move the shift lever out of PARK. As an added precaution, turn the front wheels toward the curb on a downhill grade and away from the curb on an uphill grade. WARNING! Never use the PARK position as a substitute for the parking brake. Always apply the parking brake fully when parked to guard against vehicle movement and possible injury or damage. 5 CAUTION! DO NOT race the engine when shifting from PARK or NEUTRAL positions into another gear range as this can damage the drivetrain.