Dodge Avenger Owner's Manual page 272

272 STARTING AND OPERATING
To release the parking brake, slightly pull up the handle
while pushing the lock button, and guide the lever
downward to its stop. The brake warning light in the
instrument cluster should go out.
NOTE: The parking brake lever will not release unless
the lever is pulled up slightly past its applied position.
Parking Brake Lever
NOTE:
• When parking on a hill, it is important to set the
parking brake before placing the gear selector in park,
otherwise the load on the automatic transaxle locking
mechanism may make it difficult to move the 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.
• You should always apply the parking brake before
leaving the vehicle.