service DODGE DART 2013 PF / 1.G Workshop Manual
[x] Cancel search | Manufacturer: DODGE, Model Year: 2013, Model line: DART, Model: DODGE DART 2013 PF / 1.GPages: 604, PDF Size: 4.72 MB
Page 398 of 604

Instrument Cluster Messages
Messages will be displayed in the instrument cluster to
alert the driver when certain unusual conditions occur.
These messages are described below.
MESSAGEDESCRIPTION
GEAR NOT AVAILABLE In AutoStickmode, the gear selected by the driver is not
available due to a fault condition. See your authorized
dealer for diagnosis and service.
SHIFT NOT ALLOWED The gear position requested by the driver is currently
blocked. This occurs if NEUTRAL is requested while moving
(with the throttle opened), if REVERSE is requested while
moving (at 6 mph [10 km/h] or faster), if DRIVE is re-
quested while moving backwards (at 6 mph [10 km/h] or
faster), or if 3rd gear or higher is requested at a stop. Make
sure the vehicle is stopped before engaging DRIVE or RE-
VERSE.
SHIFT TO NEUTRAL – THEN D or R The transmission has shifted itself into NEUTRAL (due to a fault condition, or overheat due to excessive idling when
stopped in DRIVE with the brakes released), but the shift
396 STARTING AND OPERATING
Page 399 of 604

MESSAGEDESCRIPTION
lever remains in gear. Shift into NEUTRAL and then back
into gear for continued driving. If the transmission will not
re-engage, see your authorized dealer.
AUTOSTICK NOT AVAILABLE AutoStick mode is unavailable due to a shift lever fault.
See your authorized dealer for diagnosis and service.
AUTOMATIC MODE NOT AVAILABLE The transmission is unable to shift itself automatically, due to a fault condition. Use the AutoStickmode to shift the
transmission manually. See your authorized dealer for diag-
nosis and service.
REDUCE GEAR CHANGES The transmission pump is overheating. In AutoStick mode,
try to drive in one specific gear as much as possible, avoid-
ing frequent gear changes. In DRIVE, the transmission will
automatically modify its shift schedule to reduce the number
of shifts.
TRANS. GETTING HOT PRESS BRAKE The transmission driving clutch is overheating, usually due to repeated launches in stop-and-go traffic. Pull over and
allow the transmission to cool in NEUTRAL until “TRANS.
COOL READY TO DRIVE ” is displayed.
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 397
Page 400 of 604

MESSAGEDESCRIPTION
TRANS. HOT STOP SAFELY SHIFT TO P The transmission driving clutch has overheated. Pull over and shift the transmission into PARK and allow the vehicle
to cool until “TRANS. COOL READY TO DRIVE” is dis-
played.
SERVICE TRANSMISSION A transmission fault has been detected. See your authorized
dealer for diagnosis and service.
SERVICE SHIFTER A shift lever fault has been detected. See your authorized
dealer for diagnosis and service.
ENGAGE PARK BRAKE The sensor that confirms PARK engagement is not function-
ing properly. Engage the parking brake to ensure that the
vehicle will not roll when in PARK.
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, some gears will be
unavailable. The transmission will operate only in a
certain select set of gears (such as 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and Reverse, or 1st, 3rd, 5th, and Reverse, or 2nd, 4th, and 6th
[with no Reverse]). PARK and NEUTRAL will continue
to be available. The “Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)”
may be illuminated. Limp Home Mode allows the vehicle
to be driven to an authorized dealer for service without
damaging the transmission.
398 STARTING AND OPERATING
Page 401 of 604

In the event of a momentary problem, the transmission
can be reset to regain all forward gears by performing the
following steps:
1. Stop the vehicle.
2. Shift the transmission into PARK.
3. Turn the engine OFF.
4. Wait approximately 10 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 recom-
mend that you visit your authorized dealer at your
earliest possible convenience. Your authorized dealer has
diagnostic equipment to determine if the problem could
recur. If the transmission cannot be reset, authorized dealer
service is required.
Six-Speed Automatic Transmission (2.0L And
2.4L Engine Only — 6F24)
The shift lever position display (located in the instrument
cluster) indicates the transmission gear range. You must
press the brake pedal to move the shift lever out of PARK
(refer to “Brake/Transmission Shift Interlock System” in
this section). To drive, press the button on the front of the
shift lever, and move the shift lever from PARK or
NEUTRAL to the DRIVE position.
The electronically-controlled transmission provides a
precise shift schedule. 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).
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 399
Page 407 of 604

If the transmission temperature exceeds normal operating
limits, the transmission controller will modify the trans-
mission shift schedule and expand the range of torque
converter clutch engagement. This is done to prevent
transmission damage due to overheating. If the transmis-
sion becomes extremely hot, the “Transmission Tempera-
ture Warning Light” may illuminate and the transmission
may operate differently until the transmission cools down.
During very cold temperatures (-4°F [-20°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 transmis-
sion temperature has risen to a suitable level.
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 remainsin fourth gear regardless of which forward gear is
selected. PARK, REVERSE, and NEUTRAL will continue
to operate. Limp Home Mode allows the vehicle to be
driven to an authorized dealer for service without dam-
aging the transmission.
In the event of a momentary problem, the transmission
can be reset to regain all forward gears by performing the
following steps:
1. Stop the vehicle.
2. Shift the transmission into PARK.
3. Turn the engine OFF.
4. Wait approximately 10 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.
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 405
Page 408 of 604

NOTE:Even if the transmission can be reset, we recom-
mend that you visit your authorized dealer at your
earliest possible convenience. Your authorized dealer has
diagnostic equipment to determine if the problem could
recur.
If the transmission cannot be reset, authorized dealer
service is required.
Overdrive Operation
The automatic transmission includes an electronically
controlled Overdrive (sixth gear). The transmission will
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 tempera-
ture,
•vehicle speed is sufficiently high, and
•the driver is not heavily pressing the accelerator.
Torque Converter Clutch
A feature designed to improve fuel economy has been
included in the automatic transmission on your vehicle.
A clutch within the torque converter engages automati-
cally at calibrated speeds. This may result in a slightly
different feeling or response during normal operation in
the upper gears. When the vehicle speed drops or during
some accelerations, the clutch automatically disengages.
NOTE: Engagement of the torque converter clutch is
inhibited at very cold temperatures. Because the engine
speed is higher when the torque converter clutch is not
engaged, it may seem as if the transmission is not shifting
into Overdrive when cold. This is normal. The torque
converter clutch will function normally once the trans-
mission is sufficiently warm.
406 STARTING AND OPERATING
Page 416 of 604

WARNING! (Continued)
•Always fully apply the parking brake when leav-
ing your vehicle or it may roll and cause damage or
injury. Also, be certain to leave an automatic
transmission in PARK, a manual transmission in
REVERSE or first gear. Failure to do so may cause
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.
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.
WARNING!
Continued operation with reduced assist could pose
a safety risk to yourself and others. Service should be
obtained as soon as possible.
If the Steering icon is flashing, it indicates that the vehicle
needs to be taken to the dealer for service. It is likely the
vehicle has lost power steering assistance.
414 STARTING AND OPERATING
Page 417 of 604

If the Steering icon is displayed and the “SERVICE
POWER STEERING” message is displayed the EVIC
screen, this indicates the vehicle needs to be taken to the
dealer for potential service. Refer to “Electronic Vehicle
Information (EVIC)” in “Understanding 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 your authorized dealer for
service.
ELECTRONIC BRAKE CONTROL SYSTEM
Your vehicle is equipped with an advanced electronic
brake control system. This system includes Anti-Lock
Brake System (ABS), Brake Assist System (BAS), TractionControl System (TCS), Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM),
Trailer Sway Control (TCS), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Brake
Lock Differential (BLD), and Electronic Stability Control
(ESC). These systems work together to enhance both
vehicle stability and control in various driving condi-
tions.
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) provides increased
vehicle stability and brake performance under most
braking conditions. The system automatically prevents
wheel lock, reduces stop distance, and enhances vehicle
control during stop.
When the vehicle is driven over 7 mph (11 km/h), you
may also hear a slight clicking sound as well as some
related motor noises. These noises are the system per-
forming its self-check cycle to ensure that the ABS is
working properly. This self-check occurs each time the
vehicle is started and accelerated past 7 mph (11 km/h).
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 415
Page 419 of 604

WARNING! (Continued)
•The ABS cannot prevent the natural laws of phys-
ics from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase
braking or steering efficiency beyond that af-
forded by the condition of the vehicle brakes and
tires or the traction afforded.
•The ABS cannot prevent collisions, including
those resulting from excessive speed in turns,
following another vehicle too closely, or hydro-
planing.
•The capabilities of an ABS equipped vehicle must
never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous
manner, which could jeopardize the user’s safety
or the safety of others.
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.
Anti-Lock Brake Warning Light
The “Anti-Lock Brake Warning Light” moni-
tors the ABS. The light will turn on when the
ignition switch is turned to the ON position
and may stay on for as long as four seconds.
If the “ABS Warning Light” remains on or comes on
while driving, it indicates that the anti-lock portion of the
brake system is not functioning and that service is
required. However, the conventional brake system will
continue to operate normally if the “Brake System Warn-
ing Light” is not on.
If the “ABS Warning Light” is on, the brake system
should be serviced as soon as possible to restore the
benefits of anti-lock brakes. If the “ABS Warning Light”
does not come on when the ignition switch is turned to
the ON position, have the light repaired as soon as
possible.
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 417
Page 426 of 604

WARNING!
•The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) cannot pre-
vent the natural laws of physics from acting on the
vehicle, nor can it increase the traction afforded by
prevailing road conditions.
•ESC also cannot prevent collisions resulting from
loss of vehicle control due to inappropriate driver
input for the conditions. Only a safe, attentive, and
skillful driver can prevent collisions.
•The capabilities of an ESC-equipped vehicle must
never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous
manner, which could jeopardize the user’s safety
or the safety of others.
ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light
The “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator
Light” in the instrument cluster will come on
when the ignition switch is turned to the ONposition. It should go out with the engine running. The
“ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” will flash
to indicate the system is actively correcting an undesir-
able vehicle condition. This includes Yaw control, traction
control, and trailer sway control. If the lamp remains
solid under normal driving conditions, your vehicle
should be serviced at an authorized dealer.
The “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” starts
to flash as soon as the tires lose traction and the ESC
system becomes active.
The “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” also
flashes when the Traction Control System (TCS) or trailer
sway is active. If the “ESC Activation/ Malfunction
Indicator Light” begins to flash during acceleration, ease
up on the accelerator and apply as little throttle as
possible. Be sure to adapt your speed and driving to the
prevailing road conditions.
424 STARTING AND OPERATING