2009 Dodge Caliber Owner Manual SRT4 - Page 256

254 STARTING AND OPERATING CAUTION! If you skip more than one gear while downshifting or downshift at too high of a vehicle speed, you could damage the engine, transmission, or clutch. To maintain a safe speed and prolong brake life, shift down to 2nd or 1st when descending a steep grade. When turning a corner, or driving up a steep grade, downshift early so that the engine will not be overburdened. DRIVING ON SLIPPERY SURFACES Acceleration Rapid acceleration on snow covered, wet, or other slippery surfaces may cause the front wheels to pull erratically to the right or left. This phenomenon occurs when there is a difference in the surface traction under the front (driving) wheels. WARNING! Rapid acceleration on slippery surfaces is dangerous. Unequal traction can cause sudden pulling of the front wheels. You could lose control of the vehicle and possibly have an accident. Accelerate slowly and carefully whenever there is likely to be poor traction (ice, snow, wet, mud, loose sand, etc.). Traction When driving on wet or slushy roads, it is possible for a wedge of water to build up between the tire and road surface. This is hydroplaning and may cause partial or complete loss of vehicle control and stopping ability. To reduce this possibility, the following precautions should be observed: 1. Slow down during rainstorms or when roads are slushy.