manual transmission DODGE CHALLENGER 2020 User Guide

STARTING AND OPERATING153
While cruising, brief full-throttle acceleration
within the limits of local traffic laws contributes
to a good break-in. However, wide-open throttle
acceleration in low gear can be detrimental and
should be avoided.
The engine oil, transmission fluid, and axle
lubricant installed at the factory are high-quality
and energy-conserving. Oil, fluid, and lubricant
changes should be consistent with anticipated
climate and conditions under which vehicle
operations will occur. For the recommended
viscosity and quality grades, refer to “Fluids And
Lubricants” in “Technical Specifications”.
NOTE:
A new engine may consume some oil during its
first few thousand miles (kilometers) of opera -
tion. This should be considered a normal part of
the break-in and not interpreted as an indica -
tion of difficulty. Please check your oil level with
the engine oil indicator often during the break in
period. Add oil as required.ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS —
6.2L & 6.4L
The following tips will be helpful in obtaining
optimum performance and maximum durability
for your new vehicle.
Despite modern technology and World Class
manufacturing methods, the moving parts of
the vehicle must still wear in with each other.
This wearing in occurs mainly during the first
500 miles (805 km) and continues through the
first oil change interval.
It is recommended for the operator to observe
the following driving behaviors during the new
vehicle break-in period:
0 to 100 miles (0 to 161 km):
Do not allow the engine to operate at idle for
an extended period of time.
Depress the accelerator pedal slowly and not
more than halfway to avoid rapid accelera -
tion.
Avoid aggressive braking.
Drive with the engine speed less than
3,500 RPM.
Maintain vehicle speed below 55 mph
(88 km/h) and observe local speed limits. 100 to 300 miles (161 to 483 km):

Depress the accelerator pedal slowly and not
more than halfway to avoid rapid accelera -
tion in lower gears (FIRST to THIRD gears).
Avoid aggressive braking.
Drive with the engine speed less than
5,000 RPM.
Maintain vehicle speed below 70 mph
(112 km/h) and observe local speed limits.
300 to 500 miles (483 to 805 km) :
Exercise the full engine RPM range, shifting
manually at higher RPM when possible.
Do not perform sustained operation with the
accelerator pedal at wide open throttle.
Maintain vehicle speed below 85 mph
(136 km/h) and observe local speed limits.
For the first 1,500 miles (2,414 km):
Do not participate in track events, sport
driving schools, or similar activities during
the first 1,500 miles (2,414 km).
NOTE:
Check engine oil with every refueling and add if
necessary. Oil and fuel consumption may be
higher through the first oil change interval.
Running the engine with an oil level below the
add mark can cause severe engine damage.
CAUTION!
Never use Non-Detergent Oil or Straight
Mineral Oil in the engine or damage may
result.
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154STARTING AND OPERATING
PARKING BRAKE
Before leaving the vehicle, make sure that the
parking brake is fully applied and place the gear
selector in the PARK or REVERSE (manual
transmission only) position.
When the parking brake is applied and the
ignition switch is in the ON/RUN position, the
“Brake Warning Light” in the instrument cluster
will illuminate.
NOTE:
When the parking brake is applied and the
transmission 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. When parking on a hill, it is important to turn the
front wheels toward the curb on a downhill
grade and away from the curb on an uphill
grade. For vehicles equipped with an automatic
transmission, apply the parking brake before
placing the gear selector in PARK, otherwise the
load on the transmission locking mechanism
may make it difficult to move the gear selector
out of PARK. The parking brake should always
be applied whenever the driver is not in the
vehicle.
Manual Transmission — If Equipped
The foot operated parking brake is positioned
below the lower left corner of the instrument
panel. To release the parking brake, pull the
parking brake release handle.

Manual Transmission Parking Brake Release
Automatic Transmission — If Equipped
The foot operated parking brake is located
below the lower left corner of the instrument
panel. To apply the parking brake, firmly push
the parking brake pedal fully.
To release the parking brake, press the parking
brake pedal a second time and let your foot up
as you feel the brake disengage.

Parking Brake

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STARTING AND OPERATING155
(Continued)
(Continued)
MANUAL TRANSMISSION — IF EQUIPPED
SIX-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION
WARNING!
Never use the PARK position as a substi
-
tute for the parking brake. Always apply the
parking brake fully when parked to guard
against vehicle movement and possible
injury or damage.
When exiting the vehicle, always remove
the key fob from the ignition and lock your
vehicle.
Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or
with access to an unlocked vehicle.
Allowing children to be in a vehicle unat -
tended is dangerous for a number of
reasons. A child or others could be seriously
or fatally injured. Children should be
warned not to touch the parking brake,
brake pedal or the gear selector.
When exiting the vehicle, always make sure
the keyless ignition node is in the OFF
mode, remove the key fob from the vehicle
and lock the vehicle.
Do not leave the key fob in or near the
vehicle or in a location accessible to chil -
dren, and do not leave the ignition of a
vehicle equipped with Keyless Enter-N-Go
in the ACC or ON/RUN mode. A child could
operate power windows, other controls, or
move the vehicle.
Be sure the parking brake is fully disen -
gaged before driving; failure to do so can
lead to brake failure and a collision.
Always fully apply the parking brake when
leaving your vehicle, or it may roll and
cause damage or injury. Also be certain to
leave the transmission in PARK. Failure to
do so may allow the vehicle to roll and
cause damage or injury.
CAUTION!
If the Brake Warning Light remains on with
the parking brake released, a brake system
malfunction is indicated. Have the brake
system serviced by an authorized dealer
immediately.
WARNING! (Continued)
WARNING!
You or others could be injured if you leave the
vehicle unattended without having the
parking brake fully applied. The parking brake
should always be applied when the driver is
not in the vehicle, especially on an incline.
CAUTION!
Never drive with your foot resting on the
clutch pedal, or try to hold the vehicle on a
hill with the clutch pedal partially engaged,
as this will cause abnormal wear on the
clutch. Refer to “Hill Start Assist” in
“Safety” for further information.
Failure to press the clutch pedal fully to the
floor may cause increased shift efforts, and
may result in damage to the clutch and
transmission.
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156STARTING AND OPERATING
NOTE:
During cold weather, you may experience
increased effort in shifting until the transmis -
sion fluid warms up. This is normal.

Manual Gear Selector

SHIFTING
Fully press the clutch pedal and lift your foot off
the accelerator pedal before shifting gears. As
you release the clutch pedal, lightly press the
accelerator pedal. Damage to the transmission
or clutch may occur if you do not fully press the
clutch pedal and lift off of the accelerator pedal
when shifting.
Shift Pattern
The six-speed manual transmission has a
spring that centers the gear selector near
THIRD and FOUTH gear. This spring helps you
know which gear you are in when you are
shifting. Be careful when shifting from FIRST to
SECOND or downshifting from SIXTH to FIFTH.
The spring will try to pull the gear selector
toward THIRD and FOURTH gear. Make sure you
move the gear selector into SECOND or FIFTH
gear. If you let the gear selector move in the
direction of the pulling, you may end shifting
from FIRST to FOURTH or from SIXTH to THIRD
gear.
You must always use FIRST gear (or REVERSE)
when starting from a standing position.Do not rest your hand on the gear selector
while driving, as this may result in transmis
-
sion synchronizer damage.
Do not attempt to shift the transmission if
the rear wheels are spinning due to loss of
traction. Damage to the transmission may
occur.
CAUTION! (Continued)
CAUTION!
Always make sure the vehicle comes to a
complete stop before shifting into REVERSE.
Failure to do so may result in transmission
damage.

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STARTING AND OPERATING157
RECOMMENDED SHIFT SPEEDS
To utilize your manual transmission efficiently for fuel economy, it should be upshifted as listed in recommended shift speed chart.
Earlier upshifts during cruise conditions (relatively steady speeds) may result in increased fuel economy.
Higher upshift speeds may be used to obtain a desired acceleration rate.
NOTE:
Your vehicle is equipped with a transmission reverse inhibitor system. Always depress the clutch pedal fully to the floor before shifting into REVERSE.
When vehicle speed is greater than 3 mph (5 km/h), the reverse inhibitor activates to help prevent shifts into REVERSE. When at a complete stop,
you may notice lighter shift efforts into REVERSE with the ignition switch in the ON position (RUN position for Keyless Enter-N-Go), as compared to
the ignition LOCK position (OFF position for Keyless Enter-N-Go). This is normal operation of the transmission reverse inhibitor system.
Due to the high performance nature of your drivetrain, you may hear your transmission. This can be most noticeable when the vehicle is idling in
NEUTRAL with the clutch engaged (clutch pedal released), but it may also be heard when driving at low engine RPM. Also, this may be more noticeable
when the transmission is warm. This is a normal condition and is not an indication of a problem with your clutch or transmission.
MANUAL TRANSMISSION RECOMMENDED SHIFT SPEEDS — NON SRT
Axle Ratio 1-44-55-6
3.90 mph
203748
km/h 325977
MANUAL TRANSMISSION RECOMMENDED SHIFT SPEEDS — SRT
Engine 1-44-55-6
6.2L Supercharged mph
202542
km/h 3240675

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160STARTING AND OPERATING
BRAKE/TRANSMISSION SHIFT
I
NTERLOCK SYSTEM
This vehicle is equipped with a Brake
Transmission Shift Interlock system (BTSI) that
holds the transmission gear selector in PARK
unless the brakes are applied. To shift the
transmission out of PARK, the engine must be
running and the brake pedal must be pressed.
The brake pedal must also be pressed to shift
from NEUTRAL into DRIVE or REVERSE when the
vehicle is stopped or moving at low speeds.
EIGHT-SPEED AUTOMATIC
T
RANSMISSION
The transmission gear range (PRNDM) is
displayed both on the gear selector and in the
instrument cluster.
To select a gear range, push the lock button on
the gear selector and move the selector
rearward or forward. To shift the transmission
out of PARK, the engine must be running and
the brake pedal must be pressed. You must
also press the brake pedal to shift from
NEUTRAL into DRIVE or REVERSE when the
vehicle is stopped or moving at low speeds.
Select the DRIVE range for normal driving. NOTE:
In the event of a mismatch between the gear
selector position and the actual transmission
gear (for example, driver selects PARK while
driving), the position indicator will blink continu
-
ously until the selector is returned to the proper
position, or the requested shift can be
completed.

Automatic Transmission Gear Selector

The electronically-controlled transmission
adapts its shift schedule based on driver inputs,
along with environmental and road conditions.
The transmission electronics are
self-calibrating; therefore, the first few shifts on
a new vehicle may be somewhat abrupt. This is
a normal condition, and precision shifts will
develop within a few hundred miles
(kilometers). Only shift from DRIVE to PARK or REVERSE
when the accelerator pedal is released and the
vehicle is stopped. Be sure to keep your foot on
the brake pedal when shifting between these
gears.
The transmission gear selector provides PARK,
REVERSE, NEUTRAL, DRIVE, and MANUAL
(AutoStick) shift positions. Manual shifts can be
made using the AutoStick shift control. Toggling
the gear selector forward (-) or rearward (+)
while in the MANUAL (AutoStick) position
(beside the DRIVE position) will manually select
the transmission gear, and will display the
current gear in the instrument cluster as M1,
M2, M3, etc. Refer to "AutoStick" in this section
for further information.
NOTE:
If the gear selector cannot be moved to the
PARK, REVERSE, or NEUTRAL position (when
pushed forward) it is probably in the MANUAL
(AutoStick, +/-) position (beside the DRIVE posi
-
tion). In MANUAL (AutoStick) mode, the trans -
mission gear is displayed in the instrument
cluster (as M1, M2, M3, etc.). Move the gear
selector to the right (into the DRIVE [D] position)
for access to PARK, REVERSE, and NEUTRAL.

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STARTING AND OPERATING163
The transmission automatically upshifts
through all forward gears. The DRIVE position
provides optimum driving characteristics under
all normal operating conditions.
When frequent transmission shifting occurs
(such as when operating the vehicle under
heavy loading conditions, in hilly terrain,
traveling into strong head winds, or while towing
a heavy trailer), use the AutoStick shift control
(if equipped, refer to “AutoStick” in this section
for further information) to select a lower gear.
Under these conditions, using a lower gear will
improve performance and extend transmission
life by reducing excessive shifting and heat
buildup.
During extremely cold temperatures
(-22°F [-30°C] or below), transmission
operation may be modified depending on
engine and transmission temperature as well
as vehicle speed. Normal operation will resume
once the transmission temperature has risen to
a suitable level.
MANUAL (M)
The MANUAL (M, +/-) position (beside the DRIVE
position) enables full manual control of
transmission shifting (also known as AutoStick
mode; refer to “AutoStick” in this section for further information). Toggling the gear selector
forward (-) or rearward (+) while in the MANUAL
(AutoStick) position will manually select the
transmission gear, and will display the current
gear in the instrument cluster as M1, M2, M3,
etc.
Transmission Limp Home Mode
Transmission function is monitored
electronically for abnormal conditions. If a
condition is detected that could result in
transmission damage, Transmission Limp
Home Mode is activated. In this mode, the
transmission may operate only in certain gears,
or may not shift at all. Vehicle performance may
be severely degraded and the engine may stall.
In some situations, the transmission may not
re-engage if the engine is turned off and
restarted. The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
may be illuminated. A message in the
instrument cluster will inform the driver of the
more serious conditions, and indicate what
actions may be necessary.
In the event of a momentary problem, the
transmission can be reset to regain all forward
gears by performing the following steps:
NOTE:
In cases where the instrument cluster message
indicates the transmission may not re-engage
after engine shutdown, perform this procedure
only in a desired location (preferably, at an
authorized dealer).

1. Stop the vehicle.

2. Shift the transmission into PARK, if
possible. If not, shift the transmission to
NEUTRAL.
3. Push and hold the ignition switch until the engine turns off.
4. Wait approximately 30 seconds.
5. Restart the engine.
6. Shift into the desired gear range. If the problem is no longer detected, the
transmission will return to normal
operation.
NOTE:
Even if the transmission can be reset, we
recommend that you visit an authorized dealer
at your earliest possible convenience. An autho -
rized dealer has diagnostic equipment to
assess the condition of your transmission.
If the transmission cannot be reset, authorized
dealer service is required.
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164STARTING AND OPERATING
AutoStick
AutoStick is a driver-interactive transmission
feature providing manual shift control, giving
you more control of the vehicle. AutoStick
allows you to maximize engine braking,
eliminate undesirable upshifts and downshifts,
and improve overall vehicle performance.
This system can also provide you with more
control during passing, city driving, cold slippery
conditions, mountain driving, trailer towing, and
many other situations.
Operation
When the gear selector is in the DRIVE (D)
position, the transmission will operate
automatically, shifting between the eight
available gears. To activate AutoStick, move the
gear selector into the MANUAL (M) position
(beside the DRIVE position). The current
transmission gear will be displayed in the
instrument cluster, along with a highlighted “M”
(Manual) indication. When the gear selector is
in the MANUAL (M) position, tap the gear
selector forward (-) or tap the (-) shift paddle on
the steering wheel, (if equipped) to downshift
the transmission to the next lower gear, or tap
the lever rearward (+) or tap the (+) shift paddle
(if equipped) to command an upshift.
Shifter Paddles

NOTE:
Tapping one of the steering wheel-mounted
shift paddles (+/-) (if equipped) while the
gear selector is in DRIVE, will activate a
temporary AutoStick mode. Tapping (-) to
enter AutoStick mode will downshift the
transmission to the next lower gear, while
tapping (+) to enter AutoStick mode will
retain the current gear. The current gear will
be displayed in the instrument cluster, but
the “M” will not be highlighted. The transmis -
sion will revert back to normal operation
(if the gear selector remains in DRIVE) after a
period of time, depending on accelerator
pedal activity.
In some models, the shift paddles may be
disabled (or re-enabled, as desired) using
Drive Mode Set-Up, accessed by selecting
Performance Control or SRT Drive Modes
from the Apps menu in the Uconnect screen.
In AutoStick mode, the transmission will shift up
or down when (+/-) is manually selected by the
driver (using the gear selector, or the shift
paddles [if equipped]), unless an engine lugging
or overspeed condition would result. It will
remain in the selected gear until another
upshift or downshift is chosen, except as
described below.
In temporary AutoStick mode (gear selector
in DRIVE), the transmission will automatically
shift up when maximum engine speed is
reached. If the accelerator is fully depressed,
the transmission will downshift when
possible (based on current vehicle speed and
gear, except 6.4L models). Lack of acceler -
ator pedal activity will cause the transmission
to revert to automatic operation.
1 — (–) Shift Paddle
2 — (+) Shift Paddle

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STARTING AND OPERATING165
In temporary AutoStick mode (gear selector
in DRIVE), the transmission will automatically
shift up when maximum engine speed is
reached. If the accelerator is fully depressed,
the transmission will downshift when
possible (based on current vehicle speed and
gear, except 6.2L and 6.4L models). Lack of
accelerator pedal activity will cause the
transmission to revert to automatic opera -
tion.
If normal AutoStick mode is engaged (gear
selector in MANUAL position), manual gear
selection will be maintained until the gear
selector is returned to DRIVE, or as described
below. The transmission will not upshift auto -
matically at redline in this mode, nor will
downshifts be obtained if the accelerator
pedal is pressed to the floor.
The transmission will automatically down -
shift as the vehicle slows (to prevent engine
lugging) and will display the current gear.
The transmission will automatically down -
shift to FIRST gear when coming to a stop.
After a stop, the driver should manually
upshift (+) the transmission as the vehicle is
accelerated.
You can start out, from a stop, in FIRST or
SECOND gear. Tapping (+) (at a stop) will
allow starting in SECOND gear. Starting out in
SECOND gear can be helpful in snowy or icy
conditions.
If a requested downshift would cause the
engine to over-speed, that shift will not occur
and an indication will display.
The system will ignore attempts to upshift at
too low of a vehicle speed and an indication
will display.
Holding the (-) paddle depressed
(if equipped), or holding the gear selector in
the (-) position, will downshift the transmis-
sion to the lowest gear possible at the current
speed.
Transmission shifting will be more noticeable
when AutoStick is enabled.
The system may revert to automatic shift
mode if a fault or overheat condition is
detected. To disengage AutoStick mode, return the gear
selector to the DRIVE position, or press and hold
the (+) shift paddle (if equipped, and the gear
selector is already in DRIVE) until “D” is once
again indicated in the instrument cluster. You
can shift in or out of the AutoStick mode at any
time without taking your foot off the accelerator
pedal.
SPORT MODE — WITHOUT PERFORMANCE
CONTROL
Your vehicle is equipped with a SPORT Mode
feature. This mode is a configuration set up for
typical enthusiast driving. The engine,
transmission (when equipped with automatic
transmission), and steering systems are all set
to their SPORT settings.
WARNING!
Do not downshift for additional engine
braking on a slippery surface. The drive
wheels could lose their grip and the vehicle
could skid, causing a collision or personal
injury.
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166STARTING AND OPERATING
SPORT Mode will provide improved throttle
response and modified shifting for an enhanced
driving experience, as well the greatest amount
of steering feel. This mode may be activated
and deactivated by pushing the SPORT button
on the instrument panel switch bank.
NOTE:
If equipped with a manual transmission, the
1 - 4 Skip Shift Feature is disabled in SPORT
Mode.
For vehicles equipped with Drive Modes or a
“SUPER TRACK PAK” button, refer to “Drive
Mode Supplement” for further information.
FUEL SAVER TECHNOLOGY 5.7L AND 6.4L
ONLY — IF EQUIPPED
This feature offers improved fuel economy by
shutting off four of the engine's eight cylinders
during light load and cruise conditions. The
system is automatic with no driver inputs or
additional driving skills required. When the
system is active, an indication will display within
the instrument cluster “Fuel Economy” main
menu screen. NOTE:
This system may take some time to return to full
functionality after a battery disconnect.
ELECTRIC POWER STEERING
The Electric Power Steering system will give you
good vehicle response and increased ease of
maneuverability in tight spaces. The system will
vary its assist to provide light efforts while
parking and good feel while driving. If the
electric steering system experiences a fault that
prevents it from providing assist, you will still
have the ability to steer the vehicle manually.
If the Electric Power Steering warning
icon is displayed and the “SERVICE
POWER STEERING” or the “POWER
STEERING ASSIST OFF – SERVICE
SYSTEM” message is displayed within the
instrument cluster display, this indicates the
vehicle needs to be taken to the dealer for
service. Refer to “Warning Lights And Messages” in
“Getting To Know Your Instrument Panel” for
further information.
NOTE:Even if the power steering assistance is no
longer operational, it is still possible to steer
the vehicle. Under these conditions there will
be a substantial increase in steering effort,
especially at low speeds and during parking
maneuvers.
If the condition persists, see an authorized
dealer for service.
If the Steering icon is displayed and the
“POWER STEERING SYSTEM OVER TEMP”
message is displayed on the instrument cluster
screen, they indicate that extreme steering
maneuvers may have occurred which caused
an over temperature condition in the power
steering system. Once driving conditions are
safe, pull over and let the vehicle idle for a few
moments until the icon and message turn off.
SPEED CONTROL — IF EQUIPPED
When engaged, the Speed Control takes over
accelerator operations at speeds greater than
25 mph (40 km/h) or 20 mph (32 km/h), depending on engine size and axle ratio.
WARNING!
Continued operation with reduced assist
could pose a safety risk to yourself and
others. Service should be obtained as soon
as possible.

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