Recommended Shift Speeds; Downshifting; Cruise Control - Dodge 2004 JR41 Stratus Sedan Owner's Manual

138 STARTING AND OPERATING
NOTE: During cold weather, until the transaxle lubri-
cant has warmed, you may have difficulty shifting. This
is normal and not harmful to the transaxle.

Recommended Shift Speeds

To use your manual transaxle for both fuel economy and
performance, it should be upshifted as listed. Shift at the
vehicle speeds listed for acceleration. Earlier upshifts
during cruise conditions (relatively steady speeds) will
result in increased fuel economy, and may be used as
indicated.
MANUAL TRANSAXLE RECOMMENDED SHIFT
SPEEDS
ENGINE MINIMUM ACCELERATION SHIFT
SIZE
1 to 2
2.7L 15 mph
(24
km/h)
Higher upshift speeds may be used to obtain a desired
acceleration rate.
SPEEDS
2 to 3 3 to 4 4 to 5
25 mph 35 mph 45 mph
(40 (56
km/h) km/h) km/h)

Downshifting

Proper downshifting will improve fuel economy and
prolong engine life.
If you skip more than one gear while downshifting
or downshift at too high an engine speed, you could
damage the engine, transmission, or clutch.
To maintain a safe speed and prolong brake life, shift
down to 2nd or 1st when descending a steep grade.
When turning a corner, or driving up a steep grade, shift
down early so that the engine will not be overburdened.

Cruise Control

In most cases, the cruise control system will not operate
(72
with the transmission in 1st or 2nd gear.
CAUTION!