2011 Dodge Dakota Crew Cab Owner Manual - Page 16

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15 Locking Doors With A Key You can insert the key into the door lock cylinder with either side up. To lock the driver's door, turn the key rearward. To unlock the driver's door, turn the key forward. For external door lock lubrication, refer to "Maintenance Procedures" in "Maintaining Your Vehicle". STEERING WHEEL LOCK - IF EQUIPPED Your vehicle may be equipped with a passive steering wheel lock. This lock prevents steering the vehicle without the ignition key. If the steering wheel is moved approximately a half turn in either direction, and the key is not in the ignition switch, the steering wheel will lock. To Manually Lock the Steering Wheel With the engine running, rotate the steering wheel onehalf revolution, turn off the engine and remove the key. Turn the steering wheel slightly in either direction until the lock engages. To Release the Steering Wheel Lock Insert the key in the ignition switch and start the engine. If the key is difficult to turn, move the wheel slightly to the right or left to disengage the lock. NOTE: If you turned the wheel to the right to engage the lock, you must turn the wheel slightly to the right to disengage it. If you turned the wheel to the left to engage the lock, turn the wheel slightly to the left to disengage it. Automatic Transmission Ignition Interlock System This system prevents the key from being removed unless the shift lever is in PARK. It also prevents shifting out of PARK unless the key is in the ACC, or ON/RUN position, and the brake pedal is pressed. SENTRY KEYா - IF EQUIPPED The Sentry Key௡ prevents unauthorized vehicle operation by disabling the engine. The system does not need to be armed or activated. Operation is automatic, regardless of whether the vehicle is locked or unlocked. 2