light DODGE VIPER 2017 VX / 3.G Manual Online

Recommended Shift Speeds
To use your manual transmission for fuel economy it
should be upshifted as listed below. Shift at the vehicle
speeds listed for acceleration. Earlier upshifts during cruise
conditions (relatively steady speeds) will result in in-
creased fuel economy, and may be used as indicated.
MANUAL TRANSMISSION
RECOMMENDED SHIFT SPEEDS 1-4 4-5 5-6
mph 1745 50
(km/h) (27) (72) (80)
Higher upshift speeds may be used to obtain a desired
acceleration rate.
Skip Shift Indicator Light
There are times when you must shift the trans-
mission directly from first gear into fourth gear
instead of from first gear into second gear. This is
to help you get the best possible fuel economy
from your vehicle. This occurs when engine coolant is
higher than 107°F (42°C), and vehicle speed is greater than
16 mph (26 km/h) but less than 18 mph (29 km/h), and engine speed is less than 1,550 RPM, and the transmission
is in first gear, and the accelerator is at 20% throttle or less.
The “Skip Shift Indicator Light” located in the tachometer
will illuminate during these times.
When the “Skip Shift Indicator Light” illuminates, the shift
mechanism will only allow shifts from first gear to fourth
gear. After you shift the transmission into fourth gear, you
can press the clutch in and shift to another forward gear.
Downshifting - Proper downshifting will improve fuel
economy and prolong engine life.
To maintain a safe speed and prolong brake life, downshift
to maintain a safe speed when descending a steep grade.
CAUTION!
If you skip more than one gear while downshifting or
downshift at too high a vehicle speed, you could
damage the engine, transmission, or clutch.
WARNING!
Skipping more than one gear while downshifting,
could cause you to lose control of your vehicle. You
could have a collision.
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STREET/RACE MODE — IF EQUIPPED
This vehicle is equipped with a two mode electronic
controlled damping system. This system allows for a
compliant street suspension damping setting or a firmer
race suspension damping setting. When in street mode the
system will automatically shift the suspension dampers to
the firmer Race damping setting during some hard accel-
eration and braking situations. There are two modes of
operation:
•Street Mode — This mode will give a sporty, but
comfortable ride. This mode is driver selectable when
the vehicle is placed in STREET mode (push the
“STREET” button on the Instrument Panel). This mode
is intended for a smoother ride on the various types of
pavement and road conditions while still providing
damping levels appropriate extreme capabilities.
• Race Mode — This mode is driver selectable when the
vehicle is placed in RACE mode (push the “RACE”
button on the Instrument Panel). This mode is for track
use only and will supply maximum grip to the tires. NOTE:
•
With the ignition in the ON/RUN position, the suspen-
sion damping system will be in the last mode the system
was in when the vehicle was turned off. The driver can
select either Street or Race damping mode at any time.
• The suspension mode will lock and stay in whatever the
driver selects even when the ignition is turned off and
the car restarted.
• The RACE setting will provide a much firmer ride.
• When RACE mode is enabled, a Shock symbol with
“RACE” next to it will light up in the instrument cluster.
LAUNCH MODE
This system maximizes acceleration traction for straight
line racing.
1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop on a level track surface with the engine running.
2. Set the steering wheel for straight ahead driving.
3. Fully depress the clutch and select the first gear posi- tion.
196 STARTING AND OPERATING

DRIVING THROUGH WATER
Driving through water more than a few inches/centimeters
deep will require extra caution to ensure safety and pre-
vent damage to your vehicle.
Flowing/Rising Water
WARNING!
Do not drive on or across a road or path where water is
flowing and/or rising (as in storm run-off). Flowing
water can wear away the road or path’s surface and
cause your vehicle to sink into deeper water. Further-
more, flowing and/or rising water can carry your ve-
hicle away swiftly. Failure to follow this warning may
result in injuries that are serious or fatal to you, your
passengers, and others around you.
Shallow Standing Water
Although your vehicle is capable of driving through shal-
low standing water, consider the following Cautions and
Warnings before doing so.
WARNING!
•Driving through standing water limits your vehicle’s
traction capabilities. Do not exceed 5 mph (8 km/h)
when driving through standing water.
• Driving through standing water limits your vehicle’s
braking capabilities, which increases stopping dis-
tances. Therefore, after driving through standing
water, drive slowly and lightly press on the brake
pedal several times to dry the brakes.
• Failure to follow these warnings may result in inju-
ries that are serious or fatal to you, your passengers,
and others around you.
CAUTION!
• Always check the depth of the standing water before
driving through it. Never drive through standing
water that is deeper than the bottom of the tire rims
mounted on the vehicle.
• Determine the condition of the road or the path that
is under water and if there are any obstacles in the
way before driving through the standing water.
(Continued)
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As an added precaution when parking the vehicle, turn the
front wheels toward the curb on a downhill grade and
away from the curb on an uphill grade.
To apply the parking brake, grasp the handle and pull it
rearward until you feel resistance. To release the parking
brake, grasp the handle and pull it slightly while pushing
the button on the end of the handle. When the button drops
into the handle (releasing the lock), guide the handle
downward to its stop and then release the button and the
handle.
The “Brake System Warning Light” in the instrument
cluster will turn on when the ignition is in the ON/RUN
position and the parking brake is applied.
NOTE:
•This light only shows that the parking brake is applied
or a brake/ABS system fault. It does not show the
degree of brake application. If the “Brake System Warn-
ing Light” is illuminated when the parking brake is not
applied, please see your authorized dealer.
• Each time the parking brake is applied, the instrument
cluster will automatically go to the highest illumination
setting regardless of the dimmer control setting.WARNING!
• 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 injured seri-
ously or fatally. 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
mode. A child could operate power windows, other
controls, or move the vehicle.
• Ensure the parking brake is fully disengaged before
driving. Failure to do so can lead to brake failure,
and an accident.
BRAKE SYSTEM
Your vehicle is equipped with dual hydraulic
brake systems. If either of the two hydraulic
systems loses normal capability, the remaining
system will still function. However, there will be
some loss of overall braking effectiveness. You may notice
increased pedal travel during application, greater pedal
force required to slow or stop, and potential activation of
the “Brake System Warning Light.”
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In the event power assist is lost for any reason (i.e.,
repeated brake applications with the engine off) the brakes
will still function. However, the effort required to brake the
vehicle will be much greater than that required with the
power system operating.
Brake Pad Break-In
NOTE:Your vehicle is equipped with a high performance
braking system. The brake pads are a semi-metallic com-
pound, which offer superior fade resistance for consistent
operation. A compromise to using this type of brake pad is
that the brakes may squeal slightly under certain weather
and operating conditions (.i.e., during light brake applica-
tions).
The brakes on your new vehicle do not require a long
break-in period. However, you should avoid repeated hard
brake applications from high speeds during initial break-
in. In addition, you should avoid severe brake loading,
such as may be encountered when descending long moun-
tain grades.
For ACR models, please review the supplemental manual
for CCM brake pad and rotor burnishing.
Safe Operating Tips
WARNING!
To use your brakes and accelerator more safely, follow
these tips:
• Do not “ride” the brakes by resting your foot on the
pedal. This could overheat the brakes and result in
unpredictable braking action, longer stopping dis-
tances, or brake damage.
• When descending mountains or hills, repeated brak-
ing can cause brake fade with loss of braking control.
Avoid repeated heavy braking by downshifting the
transmission whenever possible.
• Do not drive too fast for road conditions, especially
when roads are wet or slushy. A wedge of water can
build up between the tire tread and the road. This
hydroplaning action can cause loss of traction, brak-
ing ability, and control.
• After going through deep water or a car wash, brakes
may become wet, resulting in decreased performance
and unpredictable braking action. Dry the brakes by
gentle, intermittent pedal action while driving at
very slow speeds.
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ELECTRONIC BRAKE CONTROL SYSTEM
Your vehicle is equipped with an advanced electronic
brake control system that includes the Anti-Lock Brake
System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), and Elec-
tronic Stability Control (ESC). All of these systems work
together to enhance vehicle stability and control in various
driving conditions.
Anti-Lock Brake System
The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) is designed to aid the
driver in maintaining vehicle control under adverse brak-
ing conditions. The system operates with a separate com-
puter to modulate hydraulic pressure to prevent wheel
lock-up and help avoid skidding on slippery surfaces.
NOTE:During severe braking conditions, a pulsing sen-
sation may occur and a clicking noise will be heard. This is
normal, indicating that the ABS is functioning.
The ABS conducts a low-speed self-test at approximately
12 mph (20 km/h). If you have your foot lightly on the
brake pedal while this test is occurring, you may feel a
slight pedal movement. The movement can be more appar-
ent on ice and snow and be considered normal.
The ABS pump motor runs during the self-test at 12 mph
(20 km/h) and during an ABS stop. The pump motor makes a low humming noise during operation, which is
normal.
CAUTION!
The Anti-Lock Brake System is subject to possible
detrimental effects of electronic interference caused by
improperly installed aftermarket radios or telephones.
WARNING!
•
The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) contains sophis-
ticated electronic equipment that may be susceptible
to interference caused by improperly installed or
high output radio transmitting equipment. This in-
terference can cause possible loss of anti-lock brak-
ing capability. Installation of such equipment should
be performed by qualified professionals.
• Pumping of the Anti-Lock Brakes will diminish their
effectiveness and may lead to a collision. Pumping
makes the stopping distance longer. Just press firmly
on your brake pedal when you need to slow down or
stop.
(Continued)
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WARNING!(Continued)
•The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) cannot prevent
the natural laws of physics from acting on the
vehicle, nor can it increase braking or steering effi-
ciency beyond that afforded by the condition of the
vehicle brakes and tires or the traction afforded.
• The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) cannot prevent
collisions, including those resulting from excessive
speed in turns, following another vehicle too closely,
or hydroplaning.
• The capabilities of an Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a reck-
less or dangerous manner, that could jeopardize the
user’s safety or the safety of others.
All vehicle wheels and tires must be the same size and type
as the original equipment and the tires must be properly
inflated to produce accurate signals for the computer.
WARNING!
Significant over or underinflation of tires, or mixing
sizes of tires or wheels on the vehicle can lead to loss
of braking effectiveness.
Anti-Lock Brake Warning Light
The “Anti-Lock Brake Warning Light” will turn
on and stay on briefly as a bulb check when the
ignition is first turned on. If the light does not
turn on during starting, have it repaired
promptly.
This light also illuminates at vehicle start-up to indicate
that the ABS self-check is in process. If the light remains on
after start-up, or turns on and remains on at road speeds, it
may indicate a system malfunction or that the system is
inoperative. In this case, the system reverts to standard
non-anti-lock brakes. If this occurs, safely bring the vehicle
to a complete stop as soon as possible and cycle the ignition
to attempt to reset the ABS. If the light remains on, see your
authorized dealer immediately to have the system ser-
viced. Also, if the “BRAKE Warning Light” and the “ABS
Warning Light” are on, and the parking brake is fully
released, see your authorized dealer immediately.
Traction Control System (TCS)
The TCS system monitors the amount of wheel spin of each
driven wheel. If wheel spin is detected, brake pressure is
applied to the slipping wheel(s) and engine power is
reduced to provide enhanced acceleration and stability.
206 STARTING AND OPERATING

will display in the vehicle cluster (left of the odometer).
Refer to “Instrument Cluster Display” in “Understanding
Your Instrument Panel” for further information.
WARNING!
When in Sport Mode, the TCS functionality of ESC,
(except for the limited slip feature described in the
TCS section), has been disabled, the “ESC Sport Light”
will illuminate, and the “ESC SPORT” message will
display in the vehicle cluster. When in Sport Mode, the
engine power reduction feature of TCS is disabled, and
the enhanced vehicle stability offered by the ESC
system is reduced.
Track Mode — If Equipped
Track Mode has no traction control and has reduced
stability control. To enter the “Track Mode” mode, push the
“ESC” switch twice. The “ESC OFF” telltale will illuminate,
and the “ESC TRACK” message will display in the vehicle
cluster (left of the odometer). Refer to “Instrument Cluster
Display” in “Understanding Your Instrument Panel” for
further information.
WARNING!
When in Track Mode, the TCS functionality of ESC,
(except for the limited slip feature described in the
TCS section), has been disabled, the “ESC Track Light”
will illuminate, and the “ESC TRACK” message will
display in the vehicle cluster. When in Track Mode, the
engine power reduction feature of TCS is disabled, and
the enhanced vehicle stability offered by the ESC
system is greatly reduced. Track Mode is intended for
off-highway or off-road only.
Rain Mode
Rain mode offers increased traction control and stability
control for low traction conditions such as wet roads, dry
roads during cold temperatures, or when the driver wants
enhanced stability due to lack of familiarity or experience
with the vehicle’s response. To enter the “Rain Mode”
mode, push the “ESC” switch three times. The “ESC Rain
Light” will illuminate, and the “ESC RAIN” message will
display in the vehicle cluster (left of the odometer). Refer to
“Instrument Cluster Display” in “Understanding Your
Instrument Panel” for further information.
NOTE:
Some models may not offer “Sport” or “Track” Mode.
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TIRE SAFETY INFORMATION
Tire MarkingsNOTE:
•P (Passenger) — Metric tire sizing is based on U.S.
design standards. P-Metric tires have the letter “P”
molded into the sidewall preceding the size designation.
Example: P215/65R15 95H.
• European — Metric tire sizing is based on European
design standards. Tires designed to this standard have
the tire size molded into the sidewall beginning with the
section width. The letter Pis absent from this tire size
designation. Example: 215/65R15 96H.
• LT (Light Truck) — Metric tire sizing is based on U.S.
design standards. The size designation for LT-Metric
tires is the same as for P-Metric tires except for the letters
“LT” that are molded into the sidewall preceding the
size designation. Example: LT235/85R16.
• Temporary spare tires are designed for temporary emer-
gency use only. Temporary high pressure compact spare
tires have the letter “T” or “S” molded into the sidewall
preceding the size designation. Example: T145/80D18
103M.
• High flotation tire sizing is based on U.S. design stan-
dards and it begins with the tire diameter molded into
the sidewall. Example: 31x10.5 R15 LT.
1 — U.S. DOT Safety Standards
Code (TIN) 4 — Maximum Load
2 — Size Designation 5 — Maximum Pressure
3 — Service Description 6 — Treadwear, Traction and Temperature Grades
210 STARTING AND OPERATING

Tire Sizing Chart
EXAMPLE:
Example Size Designation: P215/65R15XL 95H, 215/65R15 96H, LT235/85R16C, T145/80D18 103M, 31x10.5 R15 LT P= Passenger car tire size based on U.S. design standards, or
....blank.... = Passenger car tire based on European design standards, or
LT = Light truck tire based on U.S. design standards, or
TorS= Temporary spare tire or
31 = Overall diameter in inches (in)
215, 235, 145 = Section width in millimeters (mm)
65, 85, 80 = Aspect ratio in percent (%)
– Ratio of section height to section width of tire, or
10.5 = Section width in inches (in)
R = Construction code
–R means radial construction, or
– D means diagonal or bias construction
15, 16, 18 = Rim diameter in inches (in)
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