2009 Dodge Dakota Owner Manual - Page 249

STARTING AND OPERATING 247 the parking brake when leaving the vehicle in this range. Always apply the parking brake first, then place the shift lever into the PARK position. REVERSE Use the REVERSE range only after the vehicle has come to a complete stop. 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. DRIVE Use 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 2nd gear. 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 mph (72 km/h) in this range. WARNING! • Never use PARK position on an automatic transmission as a substitute for the parking brake. Always apply the parking brake fully, when parked, to guard against vehicle movement and possible injury or damage. • It is dangerous to move the shift lever out of PARK or NEUTRAL if the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in reverse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit someone or something. Only shift into gear when the engine is idling normally and when your right foot is firmly on the brake pedal. 5