2008 Jeep Patriot Owner's Manual - Page 250

248 STARTING AND OPERATING The following indicators should be used to ensure that you have engaged the transmission shift lever into the PARK position: • When shifting into PARK, firmly move the shift lever all the way forward until it stops. • Look at the shift indicator window on the shift lever bezel to ensure it is in the PARK position. • You must depress the brake pedal to move the shift lever out of the PARK position. REVERSE Shift into this range only after the vehicle has come to a complete stop. NEUTRAL The engine may be started in this range. DRIVE This should be used for most driving and provides the best ratio for optimum drivability, fuel economy, and performance. LOW This range should be used for maximum engine braking when descending steep grades. In this range, the transaxle will ratio up only to prevent transaxle damage or engine over-speed, while ratio down will occur as early as possible CAUTION! Before moving the shift lever out of PARK, you must turn the ignition from LOCK to ON so the steering wheel and shift lever are released. Otherwise, damage to the steering column or shift lever could result. You must also depress the brake pedal.