2013 Dodge Avenger Owner Manual - Page 308

306 STARTING AND OPERATING The electronically-controlled transmission provides a precise shift schedule. The transmission 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 hundred miles (kilometers). PARK This range supplements the parking brake by locking the transmission. The engine can be started in this range. Never attempt to use PARK while the vehicle is in motion. Apply the parking brake when leaving the vehicle in this range. Only shift from DRIVE to PARK or REVERSE when the When parking on a level surface, you may place the shift accelerator pedal is released and the vehicle is stopped. lever in PARK first, and then apply the parking brake. Be sure to keep your foot on the brake pedal when When parking on a hill, apply the parking brake before shifting between these gears. placing the shift lever in PARK, otherwise the load on the Gear Ranges transmission locking mechanism may make it difficult to DO NOT race the engine when shifting from PARK or move the shift lever out of PARK. As an added precauNEUTRAL into another gear range. tion, turn the front wheels toward the curb on a downhill NOTE: After selecting any gear range, wait a moment to grade and away from the curb on an uphill grade. allow the selected gear to engage before accelerating. This is especially important when the engine is cold.