2012 Jeep Patriot Owner Manual - Page 308

306 STARTING AND OPERATING CAUTION! (Continued) • DO NOT race the engine when shifting from PARK or NEUTRAL into another gear range, as this can damage the drivetrain. REVERSE This range is for moving the vehicle backward. Shift into REVERSE only after the vehicle has come to a complete stop. NEUTRAL The following indicators should be used to ensure that Use this range when the vehicle is standing for prolonged you have engaged the shift lever into the PARK position: periods with the engine running. The engine may be started in this range. Set the parking brake and shift the • When shifting into PARK, move the shift lever all the transmission into PARK if you must leave the vehicle. way forward and to the left until it stops and is fully seated. WARNING! • Look at the shift lever position display and verify that it indicates the PARK position. • With brake pedal released, verify that the shift lever will not move out of PARK. Do not coast in NEUTRAL and never turn off the ignition to coast down a hill. These are unsafe practices that limit your response to changing traffic or road conditions. You might lose control of the vehicle and have a collision.