Autostick - If Equipped; Autostick Operation - Dodge 2009 Challenger Owner's Manual

268 STARTING AND OPERATING
AUTOSTICK — IF EQUIPPED
Autostick is a driver-interactive transmission that offers
manual gear shifting to provide you with more control of
the vehicle. Autostick allows you to maximize engine
braking, eliminate undesirable upshifts and downshifts,
and improve overall vehicle performance. This system
can also provide you with more control during passing,
city driving, cold slippery conditions, mountain driving,
trailer towing, and many other situations.

Autostick Operation

When the shift lever is in the DRIVE position, the
transmission will operate automatically, shifting between
the five available gears. To engage Autostick , simply
move the shift lever to the right or left (D+/D-) while in
the DRIVE position. The gear position will display in the
instrument cluster. In Autostick mode, the transmission
will shift up and down when left or right (D-/D+) is
manually selected by the driver. It will remain in the
selected gear until another upshift or downshift is cho-
sen. The transmission will automatically downshift as the
vehicle slows to a stop (to prevent engine lugging) and
will display the current gear. Tapping the shift lever to
the D+ position (at a stop) will allow starting in second
gear. After a stop, the driver should manually upshift
(D+) the transmission as the vehicle is accelerated. To
disengage Autostick mode, hold the shift lever to the
right (D+) for a few seconds. You can shift in or out of the
Autostick mode at any time without taking your foot off
the accelerator pedal.
WARNING!
Do not downshift for additional engine braking on a
slippery surface. The drive wheels could lose their
grip and the vehicle could skid, causing an accident
or personal injury.