Dodge Avenger (2020 year). Manual in english — page 14

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311

• Look at the transmission gear position display and

WARNING!

verify that it indicates the PARK position.

Do not coast in NEUTRAL and never turn off the

• With brake pedal released, verify that the shift lever

ignition to coast down a hill. These are unsafe

will not move out of PARK.

practices that limit your response to changing traffic

REVERSE (R)

or road conditions. You might lose control of the

vehicle and have a collision.

This range is for moving the vehicle backward. Shift into

REVERSE only after the vehicle has come to a complete

5

stop.

CAUTION!

NEUTRAL (N)

Towing the vehicle, coasting, or driving for any other

reason with the transmission in NEUTRAL can cause

Use this range when the vehicle is standing for prolonged

severe transmission damage. Refer to “Recreational

periods with the engine running. The engine may be

Towing” in “Starting And Operating” and “Towing A

started in this range. Apply the parking brake and shift

Disabled Vehicle” in “What To Do In Emergencies”

the transmission into PARK if you must leave the vehicle.

for further information.

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STARTING AND OPERATING

DRIVE (D)

During cold temperatures, transmission operation may

be modified depending on engine and transmission

This range should be used for most city and highway

temperature as well as vehicle speed. This feature im-

driving. It provides the smoothest upshifts and down-

proves warm up time of the engine and transmission to

shifts, and the best fuel economy. The transmission

achieve maximum efficiency. Engagement of the torque

automatically upshifts through all forward gears. The

converter clutch is inhibited until the transmission fluid

DRIVE position provides optimum driving characteris-

is warm (refer to the “Note” under “Torque Converter

tics under all normal operating conditions.

Clutch” in this section). During extremely cold tempera-

When frequent transmission shifting occurs (such as

tures (-16°F [-27°C] or below), operation may briefly be

when operating the vehicle under heavy loading condi-

limited to second gear only. Normal operation will re-

tions, in hilly terrain, traveling into strong head winds, or

sume once the transmission temperature has risen to a

while towing heavy trailers), select the

3

range. Under

suitable level.

these conditions, using the 3 range will improve perfor-

DRIVE 3 (3)

mance and extend transmission life by reducing exces-

sive shifting and heat buildup.

This range eliminates shifts into fourth gear. The trans-

mission will operate normally in first and second gear.

If the transmission temperature exceeds normal operat-

Shifts into third may be delayed to provide second gear

ing limits, the powertrain controller will modify the

operation at higher speeds. Using the

3

range while

DRIVE and “3” range shift points. This is done to prevent

operating the vehicle under heavy operating conditions

transmission damage due to overheating.

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313

will improve performance and extend transmission life

PARK, REVERSE, and NEUTRAL will continue to oper-

by reducing excessive shifting and heat build-up. The 3

ate. The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may be illu-

range should also be used when descending steep grades

minated. Limp Home Mode allows the vehicle to be

to avoid brake system distress.

driven to an authorized dealer for service without dam-

aging the transmission.

LOW (L)

In the event of a momentary problem, the transmission

Use this range for engine braking when descending very

can be reset to regain all forward gears by performing the

steep grades. In this range, the transmission will down-

following steps:

5

shift for maximum engine braking, and upshifts will

occur only to prevent engine overspeed.

1. Stop the vehicle.

Transmission Limp Home Mode

2. Shift the transmission into PARK.

Transmission function is monitored electronically for

3. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.

abnormal conditions. If a condition is detected that could

4. Wait approximately 10 seconds.

result in transmission damage, Transmission Limp Home

Mode is activated. In this mode, the transmission remains

5. Restart the engine.

in third gear regardless of which forward gear is selected.

6. Shift into the desired gear range. If the problem is no

longer detected, the transmission will return to normal

operation.

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STARTING AND OPERATING

NOTE: Even if the transmission can be reset, we recom-

• Vehicle speed is sufficiently high.

mend that you visit your authorized dealer at your

• The driver is not heavily pressing the accelerator.

earliest possible convenience. Your authorized dealer has

diagnostic equipment to determine if the problem could

Torque Converter Clutch

recur.

A feature designed to improve fuel economy has been

If the transmission cannot be reset, authorized dealer

included in the automatic transmission on your vehicle.

service is required.

A clutch within the torque converter engages automati-

cally at calibrated speeds. This may result in a slightly

Overdrive Operation

different feeling or response during normal operation in

The automatic transmission includes an electronically

the upper gears. When the vehicle speed drops or during

controlled Overdrive (fourth gear). The transmission will

some accelerations, the clutch automatically disengages.

automatically shift into Overdrive if the following con-

ditions are present:

• The shift lever is in the DRIVE position.

• The transmission fluid has reached an adequate tem-

perature.

• The engine coolant has reached an adequate temperature.

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315

NOTE: The torque converter clutch will not engage until

The electronically-controlled transmission provides a

the transmission fluid and engine coolant are warm

precise shift schedule. The transmission electronics are

[usually after 1 to 3 miles (2 to 5 km) of driving]. Because

self-calibrating; therefore, the first few shifts on a new

the engine speed is higher when the torque converter

vehicle may be somewhat abrupt. This is a normal

clutch is not engaged, it may seem as if the transmission

condition, and precision shifts will develop within a few

is not shifting into Overdrive when cold. This is normal.

hundred miles (kilometers).

Shifting between the DRIVE and 3 ranges, when the

Only shift from DRIVE to PARK or REVERSE when the

transmission is sufficiently warm, will demonstrate that

accelerator pedal is released and the vehicle is stopped.

5

the transmission is able to shift into and out of Overdrive.

Be sure to keep your foot on the brake pedal when

Six-Speed Automatic Transmission (62TE) — If

shifting between these gears.

Equipped

The transmission shift lever has PARK, REVERSE, NEU-

The transmission gear position display (located in the

TRAL, DRIVE, and AutoStick® shift positions. Manual

instrument cluster) indicates the transmission gear range.

shifts can be made using the AutoStick® shift control

You must press the brake pedal to move the shift lever

(refer to “AutoStick®” in this section for further informa-

out of PARK (refer to “Brake/Transmission Shift Inter-

tion). Moving the shift lever into the AutoStick® position

lock System” in this section). To drive, move the shift

(below the Drive position) activates AutoStick® mode,

lever from PARK or NEUTRAL to the DRIVE position.

providing manual shift control and displaying the cur-

rent gear in the instrument cluster.

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STARTING AND OPERATING

Gear Ranges

DO NOT race the engine when shifting from PARK or

NEUTRAL into another gear range.

NOTE: After selecting any gear range, wait a moment to

allow the selected gear to engage before accelerating.

This is especially important when the engine is cold.

PARK (P)

This range supplements the parking brake by locking the

transmission. The engine can be started in this range.

Never attempt to use PARK while the vehicle is in

Shift Lever

motion. Apply the parking brake when leaving the

vehicle in this range.

When parking on a level surface, you may shift the trans-

mission into PARK first, and then apply the parking brake.

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STARTING AND OPERATING

When parking on a hill, apply the parking brake before

WARNING! (Continued)

shifting the transmission to PARK, otherwise the load on the

• It is dangerous to shift out of PARK or NEUTRAL

transmission locking mechanism may make it difficult to

move the shift lever out of PARK. As an added precaution,

if the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If

turn the front wheels toward the curb on a downhill grade

your foot is not firmly pressing the brake pedal, the

and away from the curb on an uphill grade.

vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in re-

verse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit

WARNING!

someone or something. Only shift into gear when

5

the engine is idling normally and your foot is

• Never use the PARK position as a substitute for the

firmly pressing the brake pedal.

parking brake. Always apply the parking brake

• Unintended movement of a vehicle could injure

fully when parked to guard against vehicle move-

those in or near the vehicle. As with all vehicles,

ment and possible injury or damage.

you should never exit a vehicle while the engine is

• Your vehicle could move and injure you and others

running. Before exiting a vehicle, always apply the

if it is not completely in PARK. Check by trying to

parking brake, shift the transmission into PARK,

move the shift lever out of PARK with the brake

turn the engine OFF, and remove the ignition key.

pedal released. Make sure the transmission is in

Once the key is removed, the transmission is

PARK before leaving the vehicle.

(Continued)

(Continued)

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STARTING AND OPERATING

WARNING! (Continued)

CAUTION!

locked in PARK, securing the vehicle against un-

• Before moving the shift lever out of PARK, you

wanted movement.

must turn the ignition switch from the LOCK/OFF

• When leaving the vehicle, always remove the igni-

position to the ON/RUN position, and also press

tion key and lock your vehicle. Never leave chil-

the brake pedal. Otherwise, damage to the shift

dren alone in a vehicle, or with access to an

lever could result.

unlocked vehicle. Allowing children to be in a

• DO NOT race the engine when shifting from

vehicle unattended is dangerous for a number of

PARK or NEUTRAL into another gear range, as this

reasons. A child or others could be seriously or

can damage the drivetrain.

fatally injured. Children should be warned not to

touch the parking brake, brake pedal or the shift

The following indicators should be used to ensure that you

lever.

have engaged the transmission into the PARK position:

• Do not leave the ignition key in or near the vehicle,

• When shifting into PARK, firmly move the shift lever

or in a location accessible to children. A child could

all the way forward and to the left until it stops and is

operate power windows, other controls, or move

fully seated.

the vehicle.

• Look at the transmission gear position display and

verify that it indicates the PARK position.

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319

• With brake pedal released, verify that the shift lever

WARNING! (Continued)

will not move out of PARK.

practices that limit your response to changing traffic

REVERSE (R)

or road conditions. You might lose control of the

This range is for moving the vehicle backward. Shift into

vehicle and have a collision.

REVERSE only after the vehicle has come to a complete

stop.

CAUTION!

NEUTRAL (N)

5

Towing the vehicle, coasting, or driving for any other

Use this range when the vehicle is standing for prolonged

reason with the transmission in NEUTRAL can cause

periods with the engine running. The engine may be

severe transmission damage. Refer to “Recreational

started in this range. Apply the parking brake and shift

Towing” in “Starting And Operating” and “Towing A

the transmission into PARK if you must leave the vehicle.

Disabled Vehicle” in “What To Do In Emergencies”

for further information.

WARNING!

DRIVE (D)

Do not coast in NEUTRAL and never turn off the

This range should be used for most city and highway

ignition to coast down a hill. These are unsafe

driving. It provides the smoothest upshifts and down-

shifts, and the best fuel economy. The transmission

(Continued)

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320

STARTING AND OPERATING

automatically upshifts through all forward gears. The

is warm (refer to the “Note” under “Torque Converter

DRIVE position provides optimum driving characteris-

Clutch” in this section). During extremely cold tempera-

tics under all normal operating conditions.

tures (-16°F [-27°C] or below), operation may briefly be

limited to third gear only. Normal operation will resume

When frequent transmission shifting occurs (such as

once the transmission temperature has risen to a suitable

when operating the vehicle under heavy loading condi-

level.

tions, in hilly terrain, traveling into strong head winds, or

while towing heavy trailers), use the AutoStick® shift

Transmission Limp Home Mode

control (refer to “AutoStick®” in this section for further

Transmission function is monitored electronically for

information) to select a lower gear. Under these condi-

abnormal conditions. If a condition is detected that could

tions, using a lower gear will improve performance and

result in transmission damage, Transmission Limp Home

extend transmission life by reducing excessive shifting

Mode is activated. In this mode, the transmission remains

and heat buildup.

in third gear regardless of which forward gear is selected.

During cold temperatures, transmission operation may

PARK, REVERSE, and NEUTRAL will continue to oper-

be modified depending on engine and transmission

ate. The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may be illu-

temperature as well as vehicle speed. This feature im-

minated. Limp Home Mode allows the vehicle to be

proves warm up time of the engine and transmission to

driven to an authorized dealer for service without dam-

achieve maximum efficiency. Engagement of the torque

aging the transmission.

converter clutch is inhibited until the transmission fluid

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321

In the event of a momentary problem, the transmission

If the transmission cannot be reset, authorized dealer

can be reset to regain all forward gears by performing the

service is required.

following steps:

Overdrive Operation

1.

Stop the vehicle.

The automatic transmission includes an electronically

2.

Shift the transmission into PARK.

controlled Overdrive (sixth gear). The transmission will

automatically shift into Overdrive if the following con-

3.

Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.

ditions are present:

5

4.

Wait approximately 10 seconds.

• The shift lever is in the DRIVE position.

5.

Restart the engine.

• The transmission fluid has reached an adequate tem-

6.

Shift into the desired gear range. If the problem is no

perature.

longer detected, the transmission will return to normal

• The engine coolant has reached an adequate tempera-

operation.

ture.

NOTE: Even if the transmission can be reset, we recom-

• The vehicle speed is sufficiently high.

mend that you visit your authorized dealer at your

earliest possible convenience. Your authorized dealer has

• The driver is not heavily pressing the accelerator.

diagnostic equipment to determine if the problem could

recur.

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STARTING AND OPERATING

Torque Converter Clutch

AUTOSTICK® — IF EQUIPPED

A feature designed to improve fuel economy has been

AutoStick® is a driver-interactive transmission feature

included in the automatic transmission on your vehicle.

providing manual shift control, giving you more control

A clutch within the torque converter engages automati-

of the vehicle. AutoStick® allows you to maximize en-

cally at calibrated speeds. This may result in a slightly

gine braking, eliminate undesirable upshifts and down-

different feeling or response during normal operation in

shifts, and improve overall vehicle performance. This

the upper gears. When the vehicle speed drops or during

system can also provide you with more control during

some accelerations, the clutch automatically disengages.

passing, city driving, cold slippery conditions, mountain

driving, trailer towing, and many other situations.

NOTE: The torque converter clutch will not engage until

the transmission fluid and engine coolant are warm

Operation

(usually after 1 to 3 miles [2 to 5 km] of driving). Because

When the shift lever is in the AutoStick® position (below

the engine speed is higher when the torque converter

the DRIVE position), it can be moved from side to side.

clutch is not engaged, it may seem as if the transmission

This allows the driver to manually select the transmission

is not shifting into Overdrive when cold. This is normal.

gear being used. Moving the shift lever to the left (-)

Using the AutoStick® shift control, when the transmis-

triggers a downshift and to the right (+) an upshift. The

sion is sufficiently warm, will demonstrate that the

current gear will be displayed in the instrument cluster.

transmission is able to shift into and out of Overdrive.

In AutoStick® mode, the transmission will shift up or

down when the driver moves the shift lever to the right

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323

(+) or left (-), unless an engine lugging or overspeed

• Avoid using speed control when AutoStick® is en-

condition would result. It will remain in the selected gear

gaged.

until another upshift or downshift is chosen, except as

• Transmission shifting will be more noticeable when

described below.

AutoStick® is engaged.

• The transmission will automatically downshift to first

• If the system detects powertrain overheating, the

gear when coming to a stop. After a stop, the driver

transmission will revert to automatic shift mode and

should manually upshift (+) the transmission as the

remain in that mode until the powertrain cools off.

vehicle is accelerated.

5

• If the system detects a problem, it will disable

• You can start out, from a stop, in any gear except top

AutoStick® mode and the transmission will return to

gear. Tapping (+) (at a stop) will allow starting in

automatic mode until the problem is corrected.

second gear. Starting out in second gear is helpful in

snowy or icy conditions.

To disengage AutoStick® mode, return the shift lever to

the DRIVE position. You can shift in or out of the

• The transmission will automatically upshift when nec-

AutoStick® position at any time without taking your foot

essary to prevent engine over-speed.

off the accelerator pedal.

• If a requested downshift would cause the engine to

over-speed, that shift will not occur.

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STARTING AND OPERATING

WARNING!

WARNING!

Do not downshift for additional engine braking on a

Rapid acceleration on slippery surfaces is dangerous.

slippery surface. The drive wheels could lose their

Unequal traction can cause sudden pulling of the

grip and the vehicle could skid, causing a collision or

front wheels. You could lose control of the vehicle

personal injury.

and possibly have a collision. Accelerate slowly and

carefully whenever there is likely to be poor traction

DRIVING ON SLIPPERY SURFACES

(ice, snow, wet, mud, loose sand, etc.).

Acceleration

Traction

Rapid acceleration on snow covered, wet, or other slip-

When driving on wet or slushy roads, it is possible for a

pery surfaces may cause the driving wheels to pull

wedge of water to build up between the tire and road

erratically to the right or left. This phenomenon occurs

surface. This is hydroplaning and may cause partial or

when there is a difference in the surface traction under

complete loss of vehicle control and stopping ability. To

the front (driving) wheels.

reduce this possibility, the following precautions should

be observed:

1. Slow down during rainstorms or when the roads are

slushy.

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325

2. Slow down if the road has standing water or puddles.

Flowing/Rising Water

3. Replace the tires when tread wear indicators first

WARNING!

become visible.

Do not drive on or across a road or path where water

4. Keep tires properly inflated.

is flowing and/or rising (as in storm run-off). Flow-

5. Maintain sufficient distance between your vehicle and

ing water can wear away the road or path’s surface

the vehicle in front of you to avoid a collision in a

and cause your vehicle to sink into deeper water.

sudden stop.

5

Furthermore, flowing and/or rising water can carry

your vehicle away swiftly. Failure to follow this

DRIVING THROUGH WATER

warning may result in injuries that are serious or

Driving through water more than a few inches/

fatal to you, your passengers, and others around you.

centimeters deep will require extra caution to ensure

safety and prevent damage to your vehicle.

Shallow Standing Water

Although your vehicle is capable of driving through

shallow standing water, consider the following Cautions

and Warnings before doing so.

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STARTING AND OPERATING

CAUTION!

CAUTION! (Continued)

operate the vehicle if any fluid appears contami-

• Always check the depth of the standing water

nated, as this may result in further damage. Such

before driving through it. Never drive through

damage is not covered by the New Vehicle Limited

standing water that is deeper than the bottom of

Warranty.

the tire rims mounted on the vehicle.

• Getting water inside your vehicle’s engine can

• Determine the condition of the road or the path

cause it to lock up and stall out, and cause serious

that is under water and if there are any obstacles in

internal damage to the engine. Such damage is not

the way before driving through the standing water.

covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

• Do not exceed 5 mph (8 km/h) when driving

through standing water. This will minimize wave

effects.

• Driving through standing water may cause damage

to your vehicle’s drivetrain components. Always

inspect your vehicle’s fluids (i.e., engine oil, trans-

mission, axle, etc.) for signs of contamination (i.e.,

fluid that is milky or foamy in appearance) after

driving through standing water. Do not continue to

(Continued)

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327

If for some reason the power assist is interrupted, it will

WARNING!

still be possible to steer your vehicle. Under these condi-

• Driving through standing water limits your vehi-

tions, you will observe a substantial increase in steering

cle’s traction capabilities. Do not exceed 5 mph

effort, especially at very low vehicle speeds and during

(8 km/h) when driving through standing water.

parking maneuvers.

• Driving through standing water limits your vehi-

NOTE:

cle’s braking capabilities, which increases stopping

distances. Therefore, after driving through stand-

• Increased noise levels at the end of the steering wheel

5

ing water, drive slowly and lightly press on the

travel are considered normal and do not indicate that

brake pedal several times to dry the brakes.

there is a problem with the power steering system.

• Failure to follow these warnings may result in

• Upon initial start-up in cold weather, the power steer-

injuries that are serious or fatal to you, your pas-

ing pump may make noise for a short amount of time.

sengers, and others around you.

This is due to the cold, thick fluid in the steering

system. This noise should be considered normal, and it

POWER STEERING

does not in any way damage the steering system.

The standard power steering system will give you good

vehicle response and increased ease of maneuverability

in tight spaces. The system will provide mechanical

steering capability if power assist is lost.

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STARTING AND OPERATING

CAUTION!

CAUTION!

Prolonged operation of the steering system at the end

Do not use chemical flushes in your power steering

of the steering wheel travel will increase the steering

system as the chemicals can damage your power

fluid temperature and it should be avoided when

steering components. Such damage is not covered by

possible. Damage to the power steering pump may

the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

occur.

WARNING!

Power Steering Fluid Check

Fluid level should be checked on a level surface and

Checking the power steering fluid level at a defined

with the engine off to prevent injury from moving

service interval is not required. The fluid should only be

parts and to ensure accurate fluid level reading. Do

checked if a leak is suspected, abnormal noises are

not overfill. Use only manufacturer’s recommended

apparent, and/or the system is not functioning as antici-

power steering fluid.

pated. Coordinate inspection efforts through an autho-

rized dealer.

If necessary, add fluid to restore to the proper indicated

level. With a clean cloth, wipe any spilled fluid from all

surfaces. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts” in

“Maintaining Your Vehicle” for further information.

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STARTING AND OPERATING

PARKING BRAKE

possible. To release the parking brake, pull the lever up

slightly, press the center button, then lower the lever

Before leaving the vehicle, make sure that the parking

completely.

brake is fully applied. Also, be certain to leave the

transmission in PARK.

When the parking brake is applied with the ignition

switch ON, the “Brake Warning Light” in the instrument

cluster will illuminate.

NOTE:

5

• When the parking brake is applied and the transmis-

sion is placed in gear, the “Brake Warning Light” will

flash. If vehicle speed is detected, a chime will sound

to alert the driver. Fully release the parking brake

before attempting to move the vehicle.

• This light only shows that the parking brake is applied. It

does not show the degree of brake application.

Parking Brake

When parking on a hill, it is important to turn the front

The parking brake lever is located in the center console.

wheels toward the curb on a downhill grade and away

To apply the parking brake, pull the lever up as firmly as

from the curb on an uphill grade. Apply the parking

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330

STARTING AND OPERATING

brake before placing the shift lever in PARK, otherwise

WARNING! (Continued)

the load on the transmission locking mechanism may

seriously or fatally injured. Children should be

make it difficult to move the shift lever out of PARK. The

warned not to touch the parking brake, brake pedal

parking brake should always be applied whenever the

or the shift lever.

driver is not in the vehicle.

• Do not leave the Key Fob in or near the vehicle, or

in a location accessible to children. A child could

WARNING!

operate power windows, other controls, or move

• Never use the PARK position as a substitute for the

the vehicle.

parking brake. Always apply the parking brake

• Be sure the parking brake is fully disengaged

fully when parked to guard against vehicle move-

before driving; failure to do so can lead to brake

ment and possible injury or damage.

failure and a collision.

• When leaving the vehicle, always remove the Key

• Always fully apply the parking brake when leav-

Fob from the ignition and lock your vehicle.

ing your vehicle or it may roll and cause damage or

• Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with

injury. Also, be certain to leave the transmission in

access to an unlocked vehicle. Allowing children to

PARK. Failure to do so may cause the vehicle to roll

be in a vehicle unattended is dangerous for a

and cause damage or injury.

number of reasons. A child or others could be

(Continued)

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331

CAUTION!

WARNING! (Continued)

Pumping makes the stopping distance longer. Just

If the “Brake Warning Light” remains on with the

press firmly on your brake pedal when you need to

parking brake released, a brake system malfunction

slow down or stop.

is indicated. Have the brake system serviced by an

• The ABS cannot prevent the natural laws of phys-

authorized dealer immediately.

ics from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase

braking or steering efficiency beyond that afforded

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS)

5

by the condition of the vehicle brakes and tires or

The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) provides increased

the traction afforded.

vehicle stability and brake performance under most

• The ABS cannot prevent collisions, including those

braking conditions. The system operates with a separate

resulting from excessive speed in turns, following

computer to modulate the hydraulic pressure to prevent

another vehicle too closely, or hydroplaning.

wheel lock-up and avoid skidding on slippery surfaces.

• The capabilities of an ABS-equipped vehicle must

never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous

WARNING!

manner, which could jeopardize the user’s safety or

the safety of others.

• Pumping of the anti-lock brakes will diminish

their effectiveness and may lead to a collision.

(Continued)

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STARTING AND OPERATING

The “Anti-Lock Brake Warning Light” moni-

If both the “Brake Warning Light” and the “Anti-Lock

tors the Anti-Lock Brake System. The light will

Brake Warning Light” remain on, the Anti-Lock Brake

come on when the ignition switch is turned to

(ABS) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)

the ON position and may stay on for as long as

Systems are not functioning. Immediate repair to the ABS

four seconds.

system is required. See your authorized dealer.

If the “Anti-Lock Brake Warning Light” remains on or

When the vehicle is driven over 7 mph (11 km/h), you

comes on while driving, it indicates that the anti-lock

may hear a slight clicking sound as well as some related

portion of the brake system is not functioning and that

motor noises. These noises are the system performing its

service is required. However, the conventional brake

self-check cycle to ensure that the ABS system is working

system will continue to operate normally if the “Brake

properly. This self check occurs each time the vehicle is

Warning Light” is not on.

started and accelerated past 7 mph (11 km/h).

If the “Anti-Lock Brake Warning Light” is on, the brake

ABS is activated during braking under certain road or

system should be serviced as soon as possible to restore

stopping conditions. ABS-inducing conditions can in-

the benefits of anti-lock brakes. If the “Anti-Lock Brake

clude ice, snow, gravel, bumps, railroad tracks, loose

Warning Light” does not come on when the ignition

debris, or panic stops.

switch is turned to the ON position, have the bulb

repaired as soon as possible.

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STARTING AND OPERATING

You also may experience the following when the brake

WARNING!

system goes into anti-lock:

The Anti-Lock Brake System contains sophisticated

• The ABS motor running (it may continue to run for a

electronic equipment that may be susceptible to

short time after the stop).

interference caused by improperly installed or high

• The clicking sound of solenoid valves.

output radio transmitting equipment. This interfer-

• Brake pedal pulsations.

ence can cause possible loss of anti-lock braking

capability. Installation of such equipment should be

• Aslight drop or fall away of the brake pedal at the end

5

performed by qualified professionals.

of the stop.

These are all normal characteristics of ABS.

All vehicle wheels and tires must be the same size and

type, and tires must be properly inflated to produce

accurate signals for the computer.