tow DODGE HORNET 2023 User Guide

48GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE
Driver And Passenger Temperature
Control Buttons
These buttons provide the driver and passenger with
independent temperature control.
SYNC Button
Press the SYNC button on the touchscreen to
toggle the Sync feature on/off. The SYNC
indicator is illuminated when SYNC is on. SYNC
is used to synchronize the passenger
temperature setting with the driver temperature setting.
Changing the passenger temperature setting while in
SYNC will automatically exit this feature.
NOTE:The SYNC button is only available on the touchscreen.
Blower Control

Blower Control is used to regulate the amount of
air forced through the Climate Control system.
There are seven blower speeds available.
Adjusting the blower will cause automatic mode
to switch to manual operation. The speeds can be selected
using either the blower control buttons on the faceplate or
the buttons on the touchscreen.

Faceplate
Press the small blower icon button to decrease the blower
speed, or press the large blower icon button to increase
the blower speed.
Touchscreen
Blower speed can also be selected by pressing a number
on the blower bar area.
Mode Control
Select Mode by pressing one of the Mode
buttons on the touchscreen, or the faceplate,
to change the airflow distribution mode. The
airflow distribution mode can be adjusted so air
comes from the instrument panel outlets, floor outlets,
defrost outlets and demist outlets.
Panel Mode
Air comes from the outlets in the instrument
panel. Each of these outlets can be individually
adjusted to direct the flow of air. The air vanes
of the center outlets and outboard outlets can
be moved up and down or side to side to regulate airflow
direction. There is a shut-off wheel located below the air
vanes to shut off or adjust the amount of airflow from
these outlets.
Bi-Level Mode
Air comes from the instrument panel outlets
and floor outlets. A slight amount of air is
directed through the defrost and side window
demister outlets.
NOTE:Bi-Level mode is designed under comfort conditions to
provide cooler air out of the panel outlets and warmer air
from the floor outlets.
Floor Mode
Air comes from the floor outlets. A slight
amount of air is directed through the defrost,
side window demister outlets, and panel
outboard outlets.
Defrost Mode
Air comes from the windshield and side
window demist outlets. When the defrost
button is selected, the blower level may
increase. Use Defrost mode with maximum
temperature settings for best windshield and side window
defrosting and defogging. When toggling the front defrost
mode button, the Climate Control system will return to the
previous setting.
Mix Mode
Air is directed through the floor, defrost, and
side window demister outlets. This setting
works best in cold or snowy conditions that
require extra heat to the windshield. This
setting is good for maintaining comfort while reducing
moisture on the windshield. A slight amount of air is also
directed through the panel outboard outlets.
Push upward on the driver’s or
passenger’s side toggle switch on the
faceplate, or press and slide the
temperature bar towards the red arrow
button on the touchscreen for warmer
temperature settings.
Push downward the driver’s or
passenger’s side toggle switch on the
faceplate, or press and slide the
temperature bar towards the blue arrow
button on the touchscreen for cooler
temperature settings.

23_GG_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 48

70GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
DRIVER ASSIST
The instrument cluster display displays the current
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Keep Assist (LKA)
system settings. The information displayed depends on
ACC system status.
The Instrument Cluster Display shows the status and
settings of the driving assistance Adaptive Cruise Control,
Lane Keep Assist and Active Driving Assist systems. Any
instant notifications are displayed via a pop-up screen.
The instrument cluster display displays the current LKA
system settings. The information displayed depends on
Lane Keep Assist system status and the conditions that
need to be met
Úpage 113.
STORED MESSAGES
Turn the Thumbwheel up and down until the Stored
Messages menu option is highlighted. Press the
Thumbwheel to enter and exit the Stored Messages.
Messages shown on the display via popup screens are
stored as long as they remain valid. You can view them
later in the central area of the “Messages” screen.
If multiple messages are present:
Press the Thumbwheel to access the message list.
 Scroll through the messages by turning the Thumb -
wheel up or down. The presence or previous or next
message is indicated by gray dots.
BATTERY SAVER ON/BATTERY SAVER
M
ODE MESSAGE — ELECTRICAL LOAD
R
EDUCTION ACTIONS — IF EQUIPPED
This vehicle is equipped with an Intelligent Battery Sensor
(IBS) to perform additional monitoring of the electrical
system and status of the vehicle battery.
In cases when the IBS detects charging system failure, or
the vehicle battery conditions are deteriorating, electrical
load reduction actions will take place to extend the driving
time and distance of the vehicle. This is done by reducing
power to or turning off non-essential electrical loads.
Load reduction is only active when the engine is running.
It will display a message if there is a risk of battery
depletion to the point where the vehicle may stall due to
lack of electrical supply, or will not restart after the current
drive cycle.
These messages indicate the vehicle battery has a low
state of charge and continues to lose electrical charge at
a rate that the charging system cannot sustain.
NOTE:
 The charging system is independent from load reduc -
tion. The charging system performs a diagnostic on the
charging system continuously.
 If the Battery Charge Warning Light is on it may indicate
a problem with the charging system
Úpage 72. The electrical loads that may be switched off (if equipped),
and vehicle functions which can be effected by load
reduction:

Heated Seat/Vented Seats/Heated Wheel
 Heated/Cooled Cup Holders — If Equipped
 Rear Defroster And Heated Mirrors
 HVAC System
 150W Power Inverter System
 Audio and Telematics System
Loss of the battery charge may indicate one or more of the
following conditions:
 The charging system cannot deliver enough electrical
power to the vehicle system because the electrical
loads are larger than the capability of charging system.
The charging system is still functioning properly.
 Turning on all possible vehicle electrical loads (e.g.
HVAC to max settings, exterior and interior lights, over -
loaded power outlets +12 Volts, 150W, USB ports)
during certain driving conditions (city driving, towing,
frequent stopping).
 Installing options like additional lights, upfitter elec -
trical accessories, audio systems, alarms and similar
devices.
 Unusual driving cycles (short trips separated by long
parking periods).
 The vehicle was parked for an extended period of time
(weeks, months).

23_GG_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 70

72GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
Vehicles equipped with the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
are also equipped with Electronic Brake Force Distribution
(EBD). In the event of an EBD failure, the Brake Warning
Light will turn on along with the ABS Light. Immediate
repair to the ABS system is required.
Operation of the Brake Warning Light can be checked by
turning the ignition switch from the OFF position to the
ON/RUN position. The light should illuminate for
approximately two seconds. The light should then turn off
unless the parking brake is applied or a brake fault is
detected. If the light does not illuminate, have the light
inspected by an authorized dealer.
The light also will turn on when the parking brake is
applied with the ignition switch in the ON/RUN position.
NOTE:This light shows only that the parking brake is applied.
It does not show the degree of brake application.
Battery Charge Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when the
battery is not charging properly. If it stays on
while the engine is running, there may be a
malfunction with the charging system.
Contact an authorized dealer as soon as possible.
This indicates a possible problem with the electrical
system or a related component.
Door Open Warning Light
This indicator will illuminate when a door is
ajar/open and not fully closed.
NOTE:If the vehicle is moving, there will also be a single chime.
Drowsy Driver Detected Warning Light —
If Equipped
Driver drowsiness detection helps to avoid
crashes caused by fatigue by advising drivers
to take a break in time. Once Drowsy Driver is
detected, A pop-up will display continuously
until the driver presses the Thumbwheel button to clear.
Once the pop-up message is cleared, it is stored until the
condition is no longer true.
Electric Power Steering (EPS) Fault
Warning Light
This warning light will turn on when there's a
fault with the EPS system Úpage 88.
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Warning
Light
This warning light will illuminate to indicate a
problem with the ETC system. If a problem is
detected while the vehicle is running, the light
will either stay on or flash depending on the
nature of the problem. Cycle the ignition when the vehicle
is safely and completely stopped and the transmission is
placed in the PARK position. The light should turn off. If the
light remains on with the vehicle running, your vehicle will
usually be drivable; however, see an authorized dealer for
service as soon as possible.
NOTE:This light may turn on if the accelerator and brake pedals
are pressed at the same time.
If the light continues to flash when the vehicle is running,
immediate service is required and you may experience
reduced performance, an elevated/rough idle, or engine
stall and your vehicle may require towing. The light will
come on when the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN
position and remain on briefly as a bulb check. If the light
does not come on during starting, have the system
checked by an authorized dealer.
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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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL75
Lane Keep Assist Warning Light —
If Equipped
The Lane Keep Assist Warning Light will be
solid yellow when the vehicle is approaching a
lane marker. The warning light will flash when
the vehicle is crossing the lane marker.
Service Lane Keep Assist Warning Light —
If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate when the Lane
Keep Assist system is not operating and
requires service. Please see an authorized
dealer.
Low Fuel Warning Light
The Low Fuel Warning Light will turn on when
low fuel is detected in the fuel tank.
Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator (MIL)
Warning Light
The MIL is a part of an Onboard Diagnostic
System called OBD II that monitors engine and
automatic transmission control systems. This
warning light will illuminate when the ignition is
in the ON/RUN position before engine start. If the bulb
does not come on when turning the ignition switch from
OFF to ON/RUN, have the condition checked promptly. Certain conditions, such as a loose or missing gas cap,
poor quality fuel, etc., may illuminate the light after engine
start. The vehicle should be serviced if the light stays on
through several typical driving styles. In most situations,
the vehicle will drive normally and will not require towing.
When the engine is running, the MIL may flash to alert
serious conditions that could lead to immediate loss of
power or severe catalytic converter damage. The vehicle
should be serviced by an authorized dealer as soon as
possible if this occurs.
Keyless Enter n’ Go™/Service Passive
Entry Warning Light
The telltale will illuminate in the event of
keyless system failure.
Contact an authorized dealer as soon as possible.
Service Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
Light — If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate to indicate a
fault in the Forward Collision Warning System.
Contact an authorized dealer for service
Úpage 162.
Service Stop/Start System Warning Light —
If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate when the
Stop/Start system is not functioning properly
and service is required. Contact an authorized
dealer for service.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Warning Light — If Equipped
The warning light switches on and a message is
displayed to indicate that the tire pressure is
lower than the recommended value and/or
that slow pressure loss is occurring. In these
cases, optimal tire duration and fuel consumption may not
be guaranteed.
Should one or more tires be in the condition mentioned
previously, the display will show the indications
corresponding to each tire.
WARNING!
A malfunctioning catalytic converter can reach higher
temperatures than in normal operating conditions.
This can cause a fire if you drive slowly or park over
flammable substances such as dry plants, wood,
cardboard, etc. This could result in death or serious
injury to the driver, occupants or others.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the Malfunction Indicator Light
(MIL) on could cause damage to the vehicle control
system. It also could affect fuel economy and
driveability. If the MIL is flashing, severe catalytic
converter damage and power loss will soon occur.
Immediate service is required.
3

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76GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be
checked monthly when cold and inflated to the inflation
pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer on
the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label. If your
vehicle has tires of a different size than the size indicated
on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label, you
should determine the proper tire inflation pressure for
those tires.

As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped
with a TPMS that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale
when one or more of your tires is significantly underinflated.
Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale illuminates,
you should stop and check your tires as soon as possible,
and inflate them to the proper pressure. Driving on a
significantly underinflated tire causes the tire to overheat
and can lead to tire failure. Underinflation also reduces fuel
efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s
handling and stopping ability.

Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper
tire maintenance, and it is the driver’s responsibility to
maintain correct tire pressure, even if underinflation has
not reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS
low tire pressure telltale. Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS
malfunction indicator to indicate when the system is not
operating properly. The TPMS malfunction indicator is
combined with the low tire pressure telltale. When the
system detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash for
approximately one minute and then remain continuously
illuminated. This sequence will continue upon subsequent
vehicle start-ups as long as the malfunction exists. When
the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the system may
not be able to detect or signal low tire pressure as
intended. TPMS malfunctions may occur for a variety of
reasons, including the installation of replacement or
alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent the
TPMS from functioning properly. Always check the TPMS
malfunction telltale after replacing one or more tires or
wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the replacement or
alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to continue to
function properly.
Towing Hook Breakdown Warning Light —
If Equipped
This light illuminates when there is a failure
with the tow hook. Contact an authorized
dealer for service.
Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) Fault
Warning Light
This light will illuminate to indicate a TSR fault.
Contact an authorized dealer if the light
remains on after restarting the engine.
Transmission Temperature Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate to warn of a
high transmission fluid temperature. This may
occur with strenuous usage such as trailer
towing. If this light turns on, stop the vehicle
and run the engine at idle or slightly faster, with the
transmission in PARK or NEUTRAL, until the light turns off.
Once the light turns off, you may continue to drive
normally.
CAUTION!
Do not continue driving with one or more flat tires as
handling may be compromised. Stop the vehicle,
avoiding sharp braking and steering. If a tire puncture
occurs, repair immediately using the dedicated tire
repair kit and contact an authorized dealer as soon
as possible.
CAUTION!
The TPMS has been optimized for the original
equipment tires and wheels. TPMS pressures and
warning have been established for the tire size
equipped on your vehicle. Undesirable system
operation or sensor damage may result when using
replacement equipment that is not of the same size,
type, and/or style. Aftermarket wheels can cause
sensor damage. Using aftermarket tire sealants may
cause the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
sensor to become inoperable. After using an
aftermarket tire sealant it is recommended that you
take your vehicle to an authorized dealer to have your
sensor function checked.
WARNING!
If you continue operating the vehicle when the
Transmission Temperature Warning Light is illuminated
you could cause the fluid to boil over, come in contact
with hot engine or exhaust components and cause a
fire.

23_GG_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 76

78GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
WHITE INDICATOR LIGHTS
Automatic High Beam Indicator Light —
If Equipped
This indicator appears when the automatic
high beam headlights are on Úpage 40.
Automatic Low Beam Indicator Light —
If Equipped
This indicator appears when the automatic low
beam headlights are on Úpage 40.
Sport Mode On Indicator Light
This light will turn on when Sport mode on
is active.
BLUE INDICATOR LIGHTS
High Beam Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate to indicate
that the high beam headlights are on. With the
low beams activated, push the multifunction
lever forward (toward the front of the vehicle) to
turn on the high beams. Pull the multifunction lever
rearward (toward the rear of the vehicle) to turn off the
high beams. If the high beams are off, pull the lever toward
you for a temporary high beam on, “flash to pass”
scenario.
Automatic High Beam Indicator Light —
If Equipped
This indicator shows that the automatic high
beam headlights are on Úpage 40.
ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM — OBD II
Your vehicle is equipped with a sophisticated Onboard
Diagnostic system called OBD II. This system monitors the
performance of the emissions, engine, and automatic
transmission control systems. When these systems are
operating properly, your vehicle will provide excellent
performance and fuel economy, as well as emissions well
within current government regulations.
If any of these systems require service, the OBD II system
will turn on the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL). It will
also store diagnostic codes and other information to
assist your service technician in making repairs. Although
your vehicle will usually be drivable and not need towing,
see an authorized dealer for service as soon as possible.
CAUTION!
 Prolonged driving with the MIL on could cause further
damage to the emission control system. It could also
affect fuel economy and driveability. The vehicle
must be serviced before any emissions tests can be
performed.
 If the MIL is flashing while the vehicle is running,
severe catalytic converter damage and power loss
will soon occur. Immediate service is required.

23_GG_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 78

STARTING AND OPERATING81
Keyless Enter ’n Go™ — With Driver’s Foot Off The Brake
Pedal (In PARK Or NEUTRAL Position)
The Keyless Enter ’n Go™ feature operates similar to an
ignition switch. It has three positions, OFF, ON/RUN, and
START. To change the ignition switch positions without
starting the vehicle and use the accessories follow, these
steps starting with the ignition switch in the OFF position:

1. Push the ENGINE START/STOP button once to
change the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position.

2. Push the ENGINE START/STOP button a second time to change the ignition switch to the OFF position.
COLD WEATHER OPERATION
(B
ELOW –22°F OR −30°C)
To ensure reliable starting at these temperatures, use of
an externally powered electric engine block heater
(available from an authorized dealer) is recommended.
EXTENDED PARK STARTING
NOTE:Extended Park condition occurs when the vehicle has not
been started or driven for at least 30 days.

1. Install a battery charger or jumper cables to the
battery to ensure a full battery charge during the
crank cycle.

2. Place the ignition in the START position and release it when the engine starts. For Keyless Enter ‘n Go™
ignition systems, press and hold the brake pedal
while pushing the ENGINE START/STOP button once. 3. If the engine fails to start within 10 seconds, place
the ignition in the OFF position, wait 10 to 15 seconds
to allow the starter to cool, then repeat the “Extended
Park Starting” procedure.
4. If the engine fails to start after eight attempts, allow the starter to cool for at least 10 minutes, then repeat
the procedure.
AFTER STARTING — WARMING UP THE
E
NGINE
The idle speed is controlled automatically and it will
decrease as the engine warms up.
IF ENGINE FAILS TO START
If the engine fails to start after you have followed the
“Normal Starting” procedure, and has not experienced an
Extended Park condition as identified in “Extended Park
Starting” procedure, it may be flooded. Push the
accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and hold it there.
Crank the engine for no more than 10 seconds. This
should clear any excess fuel in case the engine is flooded.
Leave the ignition key in the ON/RUN position, release the
accelerator pedal and repeat the “Normal Starting”
procedure.
CAUTION!
To prevent damage to the starter, do not crank
continuously for more than 10 seconds at a time. Wait
10 to 15 seconds before trying again.
CAUTION!
To prevent damage to the starter, do not continuously
crank the engine for more than 10 seconds at a time.
Wait 10 to 15 seconds before trying again.
WARNING!
 Never pour fuel or other flammable liquid into the
throttle body air inlet opening in an attempt to start
the vehicle. This could result in flash fire causing
serious personal injury.
 Do not attempt to push or tow your vehicle to get it
started. Vehicles equipped with an automatic trans -
mission cannot be started this way. Unburned fuel
could enter the catalytic converter and once the
engine has started, ignite and damage the converter
and vehicle.
 If the vehicle has a discharged battery, booster
cables may be used to obtain a start from a booster
battery or the battery in another vehicle. This type of
start can be dangerous if done improperly
Úpage 215.
4

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STARTING AND OPERATING83
(Continued)
NOTE:The EPB Warning Light will illuminate if the EPB switch is
held for longer than 60 seconds in either the released or
applied position. The light will extinguish upon releasing
the switch.
If the Auto Park Brake feature is enabled, the parking
brake will automatically engage whenever the
transmission is placed into PARK. If your foot is on the
brake pedal, you may notice a small amount of brake
pedal movement while the parking brake is engaging.
The parking brake will release automatically when the
ignition switch is ON/RUN, the transmission is in DRIVE or
REVERSE, the driver’s seat belt is buckled, and an attempt
is made to drive away.
To release the parking brake manually, the ignition switch
must be in the ON/RUN position. Put your foot on the
brake pedal, then push the EPB switch down momentarily.
You may hear a sound from the back of the car while the
parking brake disengages. You may also notice a small
amount of movement in the brake pedal. Once the parking
brake is fully disengaged, the Brake Warning Light in the
instrument cluster and the LED indicator on the switch will
extinguish.
NOTE: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. 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.
If exceptional circumstances should make it necessary to
engage the parking brake while the vehicle is in motion,
maintain upward pressure on the EPB switch for as long as
engagement is desired. The Brake Warning Light will
illuminate, and a continuous chime will sound. The rear
stop lamps will also be illuminated automatically while the
vehicle remains in motion.
To disengage the parking brake while the vehicle is in
motion, release the switch. If the vehicle is brought to a
complete stop using the parking brake, when the vehicle
reaches approximately 3 mph, (5 km/h) the parking brake
will remain engaged.
WARNING!
Do not rely on the parking brake to operate effec -
tively if the rear brakes have been immersed in water
or mud.
 Never use the PARK position as a substitute for the
parking brake. Always apply the parking brake fully
when parked to guard against vehicle movement and
possible injury or damage.
 When leaving 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 unattended is dangerous for a
number of reasons. A child or others could be seri -
ously or fatally injured. Children should be warned
not to touch the parking brake, brake pedal or the
gear selector.
 Do not leave the key fob in or near the vehicle, or in
a location accessible to children, and do not leave
the ignition of a vehicle equipped with Keyless
Enter ’n Go™ in the ACC or ON/RUN position. A child
could operate power windows, other controls, or
move the vehicle.
Be sure the parking brake is fully disengaged 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 System 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!
4

23_GG_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 83

86STARTING AND OPERATING
IGNITION PARK INTERLOCK
This vehicle is equipped with an Ignition Park Interlock
which requires the transmission to be in PARK (P) before
the ignition can be turned to the OFF position. This helps
the driver avoid inadvertently leaving the vehicle without
placing the transmission in PARK. This system maintains
lock of the transmission in PARK whenever the ignition is
in the OFF position.
BRAKE/TRANSMISSION SHIFT
I
NTERLOCK (BTSI) SYSTEM
This vehicle is equipped with a BTSI that holds the
transmission gear selector in PARK (P) unless the brakes
are applied. To shift the transmission out of PARK, the
ignition must be in the ON/RUN position (whether the
engine is running or not), and the brake pedal must be
pressed. The brake pedal must also be pressed to shift
from NEUTRAL (N) into DRIVE (D) or REVERSE (R) when the
vehicle is stopped or moving at low speeds.
9-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
The transmission gear range (PRND) is displayed both
beside 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. You
must also press the brake pedal to shift the transmission
out of PARK (P) (or NEUTRAL (N), when the vehicle is
stopped or moving at low speeds). Select the DRIVE (D)
range for normal driving.
NOTE:
 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).
 In the event of a mismatch between the gear selector
position and the actual transmission gear (for example,
driver selects REVERSE (R) while driving forward), the
position indicator will blink continuously until the
selector is returned to the proper position, or the
requested shift can be completed.
The electronically controlled transmission adapts its shift
schedule based on driver inputs, along with environmental
and road conditions.
The 9-speed transmission has been developed to meet
the needs of current and future FWD/AWD vehicles.
Software and calibration are refined to optimize the
customer’s driving experience and fuel economy. By
design, some vehicle and driveline combinations utilize
NINTH gear only in very specific driving situations and
conditions.
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.

Gear Selector

Gear Ranges
Do not press the accelerator pedal when shifting out of
PARK or NEUTRAL.
NOTE:After selecting any gear range, wait a moment to allow the
selected gear to engage before accelerating. This is espe -
cially 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 motion.
Apply the parking brake when exiting the vehicle in this
range.
When parking on a hill, apply the parking brake before
shifting the transmission to PARK, otherwise the load on
the transmission locking mechanism may make it difficult
to move the gear selector out of PARK. As an added
precaution, turn the front wheels toward the curb on a
downhill grade and away from the curb on an uphill grade.

23_GG_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 86

STARTING AND OPERATING87
When exiting the vehicle, always:

1. Apply the parking brake.

2. Shift the transmission into PARK.
3. Turn the engine off.
4. Remove the key fob from the vehicle.
NOTE:Block the wheels with a wedge or a stone if the vehicle is
parked on a steep slope.
The following indicators should be used to ensure that you
have properly engaged the transmission into the PARK
position:
When shifting into PARK, push the lock button on the
gear selector, and firmly move the selector all the way
forward until it stops and is fully seated.
 Look at the transmission gear position display and
verify that it indicates the PARK position (P).
 With the brake pedal released, verify that the gear
selector will not move out of PARK.
REVERSE (R)
This range is for moving the vehicle backward. Shift into
REVERSE only after the vehicle has come to a complete
stop.
NEUTRAL (N)
Use this range when the vehicle is standing for prolonged
periods with the engine running. The engine may be
started in this range. Apply the parking brake and shift the
transmission into PARK if you must exit the vehicle.
DRIVE (D)
This range should be used for most city and highway
driving. It provides the smoothest upshifts and downshifts,
and the best fuel economy. The transmission
automatically upshifts through all forward gears. If the transmission temperature exceeds normal operating
limits, the transmission controller may modify the
transmission shift schedule, reduce engine torque, and/or
expand the range of torque converter clutch engagement.
This is done to prevent transmission damage due to
overheating.
If the transmission becomes extremely hot, the
Transmission Temperature Warning Light may illuminate,
and the transmission may operate differently until the
transmission cools down.
During cold temperatures, transmission operation may be
modified depending on engine and/or transmission
temperature as well as vehicle speed. This feature
improves warm-up time of the engine and transmission to
achieve maximum efficiency. Engagement of the torque
converter clutch (and shifts into EIGHTH or NINTH gear),
are inhibited until the engine and/or transmission is
warm. Normal operation will resume once the
temperature(s) have 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 may
operate only in a fixed gear, or may remain in NEUTRAL
(N). The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may be
illuminated. Limp Home Mode may allow the vehicle to be
driven to an authorized dealer for service without
damaging the transmission.
CAUTION!

Before moving the transmission gear selector out of
PARK, you must turn the ignition to the ON/RUN posi -
tion, and also press the brake pedal. Otherwise,
damage to the gear selector could result.
 DO NOT race the engine when shifting from PARK or
NEUTRAL into another gear range, as this can
damage the drivetrain.WARNING!
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.
CAUTION!
Towing the vehicle, coasting, or driving for any other
reason with the transmission in NEUTRAL can cause
severe transmission damage.
For Recreational Towing
Úpage 126.
For Towing A Disabled Vehicle
Úpage 220.
4

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