2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser Owner's Manual - Page 184

184 STARTING AND OPERATING Brake/Transmission Interlock System This system prevents you from moving the gear shift out of Park and into any gear unless the brake pedal is pressed. This system is active only while the ignition switch is in the ON positions. Always depress the brake pedal first, before moving the gear selector out of PARK. Automatic Transaxle Ignition Interlock System This system prevents the key from being removed unless the shift lever is in PARK and the shift knob push button is out. It also prevents shifting out of PARK unless the key is in the OFF or ON positions. NOTE: If a malfunction occurs, the system will trap the key in the ignition cylinder to warn you that this safety feature is inoperable. The engine can be started and stopped but the key cannot be removed until you obtain service. Four Speed Automatic Transaxle The electronically controlled transaxle provides a precise shift schedule. The transaxle 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 shift cycles. Reset Mode The transaxle is monitored electronically for abnormal conditions. If a condition is detected that could cause damage, the transaxle shifts automatically into second gear. The transaxle remains in second gear despite the forward gear selected. Park (P), Reverse (R), and Neutral (N) will continue to operate. This second gear limp-in feature allows the vehicle to be driven to a dealer for service without damaging the transaxle. In the event that the problem has been momentary, the transaxle can be reset to regain all forward gears. Stop the vehicle and shift into Park (P).