Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission – 3.6L Engine

The transmission gear display (PRND) (located in the instrument cluster) indicates the transmission gear range.

Transmission gear position is also indicated in the display in the shift knob. The shift lever is spring-loaded and returns to a home position when it is released. To select a gear range, press the lock button on the shift lever and move the lever rearward or forward. You must also press the brake pedal to shift the transmission out of the PARK position (refer to “Brake/Transmission Shift Interlock System” in this section). To shift past multiple gear ranges at once (such as PARK to DRIVE), move the lever past the first (or second) detent. Select the DRIVE range for normal driving.

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).

Shifting from DRIVE to PARK or REVERSE should be done only after the accelerator pedal is released and the vehicle is stopped. Be sure to keep your foot on the brake pedal when moving the shift lever between these gears.

    See also:

    Enhanced Seat Belt Use Reminder System (BeltAlert )
    BeltAlert is a feature intended to remind the driver and front passenger (if equipped with front passenger BeltAlert ) to fasten their seat belts. The feature is active whenever the ignition is ...

    Replacement Parts
    Use of genuine MOPAR parts for normal/scheduled maintenance and repairs is highly recommended to ensure the designed performance. Damage or failures caused by the use of non-MOPAR parts for main ...

    Cooling System
    WARNING! • When working near the radiator cooling fan, disconnect the fan motor lead or turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position. The fan is temperature controlled and can start at any t ...