2005 Dodge Dakota Owner Manual - Page 201

STARTING AND OPERATING 201 "N" Neutral Shift to Neutral when vehicle is standing for prolonged periods with engine running. Engine may be started in this range. Set the parking brake if you must leave the vehicle. "D" Drive For most city and highway driving. "2" Second For driving slowly in heavy city traffic or on mountain roads where more precise speed control is desirable. Use it also when climbing long grades, and for engine braking when descending moderately steep grades. To prevent excessive engine speed do not exceed 45 miles per hour (72 km/h) in this range. "1" First For driving up very steep hills and for engine braking at low speeds 25 mph (40 km/h) or less when going down hill. To prevent excessive engine speed do not exceed 25 mph (40 km/h) in this range. Overdrive Operation The overdrive automatic transmission contains an electronically controlled fourth and fifth (if equipped) speed (Overdrive). The transmission will automatically shift from Drive to Overdrive if the following conditions are present: • the transmission selector is in Drive; • the engine coolant has reached normal operating temperature; • vehicle speed is above approximately 30 mph (48 km/h); • the "TOW/HAUL" switch has not been activated; 5