STARTING AND OPERATING
Towing Tips
In this manual: STARTING AND OPERATING
~1min read
Before towing, practice turning, stopping, and backing up with the trailer in an area away from heavy traffic.
Automatic Transmission
Select the DRIVE range when towing. The transmission controls include a shift strategy that avoids frequent gear changes while towing. However, if frequent shifting occurs in DRIVE, you can use AutoStick shift control to manually select a lower gear.
NOTE:
Using a lower gear when operating the vehicle under heavy load will improve performance and extend transmission life by reducing excessive shifting and heat buildup. This action also provides better engine braking.
Cruise Control — If Equipped
- Do not use on hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
- If, while using cruise control, the speed drops more than 16 km/h below the set speed, disengage it until you can return to the cruising speed.
- Use cruise control on level ground and with light loads to maximize fuel efficiency.
AutoStick
- When using AutoStick shift control, select the highest gear that allows adequate performance and avoids frequent downshifts. For example, select "5" if the desired speed can be maintained. Select "4" or "3" if it is necessary to maintain the desired speed.
- To prevent excessive heat buildup, avoid continuous driving at high engine speeds. If necessary, reduce vehicle speed to avoid prolonged high-rpm operation. Return to a higher gear or vehicle speed if grade and road conditions allow.
Test yourself
A quick Dodge Charger quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.
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