2010 Dodge Avenger Owner Manual - Page 251

250 STARTING AND OPERATING Never attempt to use PARK while vehicle is in motion. Apply parking brake when leaving vehicle in this range. When parking on a flat surface, place the shift lever in the PARK position first, and then apply the parking brake. When parking on a hill, it is important to set the parking brake before placing the shift lever in PARK, otherwise the load on the transmission locking mechanism may make it difficult to move the shift lever out of PARK. As an added precaution, turn the front wheels toward the curb on a downhill grade and away from the curb on an uphill grade. WARNING! (Continued) • Never leave children alone in a vehicle. Leaving unattended children in a vehicle is dangerous for a number of reasons. A child or others could be seriously or fatally injured. Do not leave the ignition key in the ignition switch. A child could operate power windows, other controls, or move the vehicle. CAUTION! DO NOT race the engine when shifting from PARK or NEUTRAL positions into another gear range as this can damage the drivetrain. WARNING! • Never use the PARK position 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. REVERSE This range is for moving the vehicle backward. Shift into REVERSE only after the vehicle has come to a complete (Continued) stop.