2009 DODGE CHARGER clutch

shifts and the best fuel economy. Select the “3” range
when frequent transmission shifting occurs when using
the Overdrive range, such as when operating the vehicle
under heavy loading conditions (in hilly terrain, travel-
ing into strong head winds, or while towing heavy
trailers).
NOTE:
•If the vehicle is started in cold temperatures, shifts into
Overdrive may be delayed. Normal Overdrive and
shifting operation will resume when the temperature
of the transmission reaches the appropriate tempera-
ture. Refer to the Note under “Torque Converter
Clutch” later in this section.
•If the transmission temperature gets too hot, the
transmission may downshift out of Overdrive or en-
gage Overdrive at higher vehicle speeds until the
transmission cools down. After cooldown, Overdrive
will resume normal operation.“3” (Third)
This range eliminates shifts into Overdrive. The transmis-
sion will operate normally in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd while in
this range. The “3” position should also be used when
descending steep grades to prevent brake system dis-
tress.
NOTE:
Using the “3” range while operating the vehicle
under heavy operating conditions will improve perfor-
mance and extend transmission life by reducing exces-
sive shifting and heat buildup.
“L” (Low)
This range should be used for engine braking when
descending very steep grades. In this range, upshifts will
occur only to prevent engine overspeed while downshifts
occur earlier than in other gear range selections.
STARTING AND OPERATING 279
5

CAUTION!
Never race the engine with the brakes on and the
vehicle in gear, and never hold the vehicle on an
incline without applying the brakes. These practices
can cause overheating and damage to the transmis-
sion.
Torque Converter Clutch
A feature designed to improve fuel economy has been
added to the automatic transmission in this vehicle. A
clutch within the torque converter engages automatically
at calibrated speeds. This may result in a slightly differ-
ent feeling or response during normal operation in high
gear. When the vehicle speed drops or during accelera-
tion, the clutch automatically and smoothly disengages.NOTE:
•The torque converter clutch will not engage until the
transmission fluid and engine coolant is warm (usu-
ally after 1–3 miles [1.6–4.8 km] of driving). Because
engine speed is higher when the torque converter
clutch is not engaged, it may seem as if the transmis-
sion is not shifting into Overdrive when cold. This is
considered a normal condition. Pulling the shift lever
into the “3” position will show that the transmission is
able to shift into and out of Overdrive.
•If the vehicle has not been driven for several days, the
first few seconds of operation after shifting the trans-
mission into gear may seem sluggish. This is due to the
transmission fluid partially draining from the torque
converter into the transmission. This is considered a
normal condition and it will not cause damage to the
transmission. The torque converter will refill within
five seconds of shifting from PARK into any other gear
position.
280 STARTING AND OPERATING

Trailer Towing........................ 350
Tread Wear Indicators ................... 316
To Open Hood .......................... 129
Tongue Weight/Trailer Weight .............. 347
Torque Converter Clutch .................. 280
Towing ............................... 342
24-Hour Towing Assistance ............... 103
Behind a Motor Home .................. 354
Disabled Vehicle ....................... 374
Guide .............................. 346
Recreational .......................... 354
Weight .............................. 346
Towing Assistance ....................... 103
Towing Vehicle Behind a Motor Home ......... 354
Traction Control ......................... 297
Trailer Towing .......................... 342
Cooling System Tips .................... 354
Hitches ............................. 344
Minimum Requirements ................. 348 Tips ................................ 353
Trailer and Tongue Weight
............... 347
Wiring .............................. 351
Trailer Towing Guide ..................... 346
Trailer Weight .......................... 346
Transfer Case ........................... 405
Fluid ............................ 405,430
Maintenance ......................... 406
Transmission ........................... 404
Automatic ................... 273,276,282,404
Fluid ............................... 430
Range Indicator .................... 277,282
Shifting ............................. 273
Transmitter Battery Service
(Remote Keyless Entry) .................... 25
Transmitter, Garage Door Opener (HomeLink) . . 146
Transmitter Programming
(Remote Keyless Entry) .................... 20
Transmitter, Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) ........ 20
478 INDEX