2009 Dodge Dakota Owner Manual - Page 241

STARTING AND OPERATING 239 STARTING PROCEDURES Before starting your vehicle, adjust your seat, adjust both inside and outside mirrors, and fasten your seat belts. Automatic Transmission Start the engine with the shift lever in NEUTRAL or PARK position. Apply the brake before shifting to any driving range. NOTE: This vehicle is equipped with a transmission shift interlocking system. The brake pedal must be depressed to shift out of PARK. Tip Start Feature Turn the ignition switch to START position and release it as soon as the starter engages. The starter motor will continue to run, but will automatically disengage itself when the engine is running. If the engine fails to start, the starter will disengage automatically in 10 seconds. If this occurs, turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position, wait 10 to 15 seconds, then repeat the normal starting procedure. WARNING! Do not leave children or animals inside parked vehicles in hot weather. Interior heat buildup may cause serious injury or death. Manual Transmission Apply the parking brake, place the shift lever in NEUTRAL and depress clutch pedal to the floor before starting the vehicle. This vehicle is equipped with a clutch interlocking ignition system. It will not start unless the clutch is pressed to the floor. 5