2009 Dodge Avenger Owner Manual - Page 285

STARTING AND OPERATING 283 When parking on a hill, it is important to apply 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. To apply the parking brake, grasp the handle and pull it upward until you feel resistance. To release the parking brake, grasp the handle and pull it slightly while pressing the button on the end of the handle. When the button drops into the handle (releasing the lock), guide the handle downward to its stop, and then release the button and the handle. 5 Parking Brake NOTE: • The parking brake will not release unless the handle is pulled upward slightly past its applied position.