2012 DODGE CHARGER SRT Owners Manual

may be illuminated. Limp Home Mode allows the vehicle
to be driven to an authorized dealer for service without
damaging the transmission.
In the event of a momentary problem, the transmission
can be reset to regain all forward gears by performing the
following steps:
1. Stop the vehicle.
2. Shift the transmission into PARK.
3. Turn the engine OFF.
4. Wait approximately 10 seconds.
5. Restart the engine.
6. Shift into the desired gear range. If the problem is no
longer detected, the transmission will return to normal
operation.NOTE:Even if the transmission can be reset, we recom-
mend that you visit your authorized dealer at your
earliest possible convenience. Your authorized dealer has
diagnostic equipment to determine if the problem could
recur.
If the transmission cannot be reset, authorized dealer
service is required.
Overdrive Operation
The automatic transmission includes an electronically
controlled Overdrive (fifth gear). The transmission will
automatically shift into the Overdrive gear if the follow-
ing conditions are present:
•the shift lever is in the DRIVE position,
•vehicle speed is sufficiently high, and
•the driver is not heavily pressing the accelerator
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 359
PAGE POSITION:359JOB:@zeta.tweddle.com/chry_pdm/CLS_chrysler/GRP_owners/JOB_918945-en-dsr-12D482-126-AA_DSR/DIV_og pubnum: 12D482-126-AB_DSR may be illuminated. Limp Home Mode allows the vehicle
to be driven to an authorized dealer for service without
damaging the transmission.
In the event of a momentary problem, the transmission
can be reset to regain all forward gears by performing the
following steps:
1. Stop the vehicle.
2. Shift the transmission into PARK.
3. Turn the engine OFF.
4. Wait approximately 10 seconds.
5. Restart the engine.
6. Shift into the desired gear range. If the problem is no
longer detected, the transmission will return to normal
operation.NOTE:Even if the transmission can be reset, we recom-
mend that you visit your authorized dealer at your
earliest possible convenience. Your authorized dealer has
diagnostic equipment to determine if the problem could
recur.
If the transmission cannot be reset, authorized dealer
service is required.
Overdrive Operation
The automatic transmission includes an electronically
controlled Overdrive (fifth gear). The transmission will
automatically shift into the Overdrive gear if the follow-
ing conditions are present:
•the shift lever is in the DRIVE position,
•vehicle speed is sufficiently high, and
•the driver is not heavily pressing the accelerator
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 359
PAGE POSITION:359JOB:@zeta.tweddle.com/chry_pdm/CLS_chrysler/GRP_owners/JOB_918945-en-dsr-12D482-126-AA_DSR/DIV_og pubnum: 12D482-126-AB_DSR

AUTOSTICK
Steering Wheel Mounted Paddle Shifters Or
Console Mounted Shifter
AutoStickis a driver-interactive transmission feature
that offers manual gear shifting to provide you with more
control of the vehicle. AutoStickallows you to maximize
engine braking, and improve overall vehicle perfor-
mance.
This system can also provide you with more control
during passing, city driving, cold slippery conditions,
mountain driving, trailer towing, and many other situa-
tions.
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 (+/-) while in the
DRIVE position, or press one of the steering wheelmounted shift paddles (+/-). When AutoStickis active,
the current transmission gear is displayed in the Elec-
tronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) portion of the
instrument cluster. In AutoStickmode, the transmission
will shift when manually selected by the driver (using the
shift lever, or the shift paddles), unless an engine lugging
or overspeed condition would result. It will remain in the
selected gear until another upshift or downshift is cho-
sen, except as described below.
•The transmission will automatically downshift as the
vehicle slows (to prevent engine lugging) and will
display the current gear.
•The transmission will automatically downshift to first
gear when coming to a stop.
•You can start out in first or second gear. Tapping (+) (at
a stop) will allow starting in second gear. Starting out
in second gear is helpful in snowy or icy conditions.
360 STARTING AND OPERATING
PAGE POSITION:360JOB:@zeta.tweddle.com/chry_pdm/CLS_chrysler/GRP_owners/JOB_918945-en-dsr-12D482-126-AA_DSR/DIV_og pubnum: 12D482-126-AB_DSR AUTOSTICK
Steering Wheel Mounted Paddle Shifters Or
Console Mounted Shifter
AutoStickis a driver-interactive transmission feature
that offers manual gear shifting to provide you with more
control of the vehicle. AutoStickallows you to maximize
engine braking, and improve overall vehicle perfor-
mance.
This system can also provide you with more control
during passing, city driving, cold slippery conditions,
mountain driving, trailer towing, and many other situa-
tions.
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 (+/-) while in the
DRIVE position, or press one of the steering wheelmounted shift paddles (+/-). When AutoStickis active,
the current transmission gear is displayed in the Elec-
tronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) portion of the
instrument cluster. In AutoStickmode, the transmission
will shift when manually selected by the driver (using the
shift lever, or the shift paddles), unless an engine lugging
or overspeed condition would result. It will remain in the
selected gear until another upshift or downshift is cho-
sen, except as described below.
•The transmission will automatically downshift as the
vehicle slows (to prevent engine lugging) and will
display the current gear.
•The transmission will automatically downshift to first
gear when coming to a stop.
•You can start out in first or second gear. Tapping (+) (at
a stop) will allow starting in second gear. Starting out
in second gear is helpful in snowy or icy conditions.
360 STARTING AND OPERATING
PAGE POSITION:360JOB:@zeta.tweddle.com/chry_pdm/CLS_chrysler/GRP_owners/JOB_918945-en-dsr-12D482-126-AA_DSR/DIV_og pubnum: 12D482-126-AB_DSR

•The system will ignore attempts to upshift at too low
of a vehicle speed.
•Transmission shifting will be more noticeable when
AutoStickis engaged. To disengage AutoStick
mode, hold the shift lever to the right or press and
hold the (+) shift paddle until “D” is once again
displayed in the instrument cluster. You can shift in or
out of the AutoStickmode at any time without taking
your foot off the accelerator pedal.
•An “UPSHIFT” message will appear in the Electronic
Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) portion of the in-
strument cluster when using AutoStick, to alert the
driver to upshift to the next gear. The “UPSHIFT”
message will appear when approaching the maximum
engine speed.
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 a collision or
personal injury.
Auto
•
If AutoStickis engaged while in “Auto” mode, the
transmission will automatically shift up if maximum
engine speed is reached.
•Heavily pressing the accelerator pedal may generate
an automatic downshift for improved acceleration.
•This mode should be used for most driving situations.
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 361
PAGE POSITION:361JOB:@zeta.tweddle.com/chry_pdm/CLS_chrysler/GRP_owners/JOB_918945-en-dsr-12D482-126-AA_DSR/DIV_og pubnum: 12D482-126-AB_DSR •The system will ignore attempts to upshift at too low
of a vehicle speed.
•Transmission shifting will be more noticeable when
AutoStickis engaged. To disengage AutoStick
mode, hold the shift lever to the right or press and
hold the (+) shift paddle until “D” is once again
displayed in the instrument cluster. You can shift in or
out of the AutoStickmode at any time without taking
your foot off the accelerator pedal.
•An “UPSHIFT” message will appear in the Electronic
Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) portion of the in-
strument cluster when using AutoStick, to alert the
driver to upshift to the next gear. The “UPSHIFT”
message will appear when approaching the maximum
engine speed.
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 a collision or
personal injury.
Auto
•
If AutoStickis engaged while in “Auto” mode, the
transmission will automatically shift up if maximum
engine speed is reached.
•Heavily pressing the accelerator pedal may generate
an automatic downshift for improved acceleration.
•This mode should be used for most driving situations.
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 361
PAGE POSITION:361JOB:@zeta.tweddle.com/chry_pdm/CLS_chrysler/GRP_owners/JOB_918945-en-dsr-12D482-126-AA_DSR/DIV_og pubnum: 12D482-126-AB_DSR

Sport
•
If AutoStick is engaged while in “Sport” mode, the
transmission will remain in the selected gear even
when maximum engine speed is reached.
•Engine overspeed protection is achieved through fuel
cut off at or near redline.
•This mode will provide aggressive shifting and is
intended for spirited driving.
SPORT MODE
This vehicle is equipped with an electronic controlled
dampening system. This system reduces body roll and
pitch in many driving situations including cornering,
acceleration and braking. There are two modes of opera-
tion:
•Automatic (Auto) Mode — This is the default position
when vehicle ignition is first turned on. This mode will
give a sporty, but comfortable ride. Within this mode,the suspension will adapt to the vehicle inputs, includ-
ing vehicle speed, steering inputs, braking and accel-
eration.
•Sport Mode — This mode is driver selectable when the
vehicle is placed in SPORT mode (press the CON-
TROLS button and then the SPORT button on the
display screen). This mode will set suspension for
maximum performance handling and is intended for
spirited driving.
NOTE:The SPORT setting will provide a firmer ride.
362 STARTING AND OPERATING
PAGE POSITION:362JOB:@zeta.tweddle.com/chry_pdm/CLS_chrysler/GRP_owners/JOB_918945-en-dsr-12D482-126-AA_DSR/DIV_og pubnum: 12D482-126-AB_DSR Sport
•
If AutoStick is engaged while in “Sport” mode, the
transmission will remain in the selected gear even
when maximum engine speed is reached.
•Engine overspeed protection is achieved through fuel
cut off at or near redline.
•This mode will provide aggressive shifting and is
intended for spirited driving.
SPORT MODE
This vehicle is equipped with an electronic controlled
dampening system. This system reduces body roll and
pitch in many driving situations including cornering,
acceleration and braking. There are two modes of opera-
tion:
•Automatic (Auto) Mode — This is the default position
when vehicle ignition is first turned on. This mode will
give a sporty, but comfortable ride. Within this mode,the suspension will adapt to the vehicle inputs, includ-
ing vehicle speed, steering inputs, braking and accel-
eration.
•Sport Mode — This mode is driver selectable when the
vehicle is placed in SPORT mode (press the CON-
TROLS button and then the SPORT button on the
display screen). This mode will set suspension for
maximum performance handling and is intended for
spirited driving.
NOTE:The SPORT setting will provide a firmer ride.
362 STARTING AND OPERATING
PAGE POSITION:362JOB:@zeta.tweddle.com/chry_pdm/CLS_chrysler/GRP_owners/JOB_918945-en-dsr-12D482-126-AA_DSR/DIV_og pubnum: 12D482-126-AB_DSR

When SPORT mode is enabled, a flag will light up in the
instrument cluster. Refer to “Instrument Cluster Descrip-
tion” in “Understanding Your Instrument Panel” for
further information.AUTO mode will be a more soft touring ride, where as
SPORT will be a firmer, sportier suspension for better
handling. SPORT mode also affects transmission shifting
in either Auto or Manual mode. Refer to “AutoStick”in
“Starting And Operating” for further information. In
Auto mode, the transmission has a sportier more aggres-
sive shift pattern. In Manual mode, the transmission will
hold gear at redline during manual shifting (shifter or
paddle switches).
DRIVING ON SLIPPERY SURFACES
Acceleration
Rapid acceleration on snow covered, wet, or other slip-
pery surfaces may cause the driving wheels to pull
erratically to the right or left. This phenomenon occurs
when there is a difference in the surface traction under
the rear (driving) wheels.SPORT Mode
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 363
PAGE POSITION:363JOB:@zeta.tweddle.com/chry_pdm/CLS_chrysler/GRP_owners/JOB_918945-en-dsr-12D482-126-AA_DSR/DIV_og pubnum: 12D482-126-AB_DSR When SPORT mode is enabled, a flag will light up in the
instrument cluster. Refer to “Instrument Cluster Descrip-
tion” in “Understanding Your Instrument Panel” for
further information.AUTO mode will be a more soft touring ride, where as
SPORT will be a firmer, sportier suspension for better
handling. SPORT mode also affects transmission shifting
in either Auto or Manual mode. Refer to “AutoStick”in
“Starting And Operating” for further information. In
Auto mode, the transmission has a sportier more aggres-
sive shift pattern. In Manual mode, the transmission will
hold gear at redline during manual shifting (shifter or
paddle switches).
DRIVING ON SLIPPERY SURFACES
Acceleration
Rapid acceleration on snow covered, wet, or other slip-
pery surfaces may cause the driving wheels to pull
erratically to the right or left. This phenomenon occurs
when there is a difference in the surface traction under
the rear (driving) wheels.SPORT Mode
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 363
PAGE POSITION:363JOB:@zeta.tweddle.com/chry_pdm/CLS_chrysler/GRP_owners/JOB_918945-en-dsr-12D482-126-AA_DSR/DIV_og pubnum: 12D482-126-AB_DSR

WARNING!
Rapid acceleration on slippery surfaces is dangerous.
Unequal traction can cause sudden pulling of the rear
wheels. You could lose control of the vehicle and
possibly have a collision. Accelerate slowly and
carefully whenever there is likely to be poor traction
(ice, snow, wet mud, loose sand, etc.).
Traction
When driving on wet or slushy roads, it is possible for a
wedge of water to build up between the tire and road
surface. This is known as hydroplaning and may cause
partial or complete loss of vehicle control and stopping
ability. To reduce this possibility, the following precau-
tions should be observed:
1. Slow down during rainstorms or when the roads are
slushy.2. Slow down if the road has standing water or puddles.
3. Replace tires when tread wear indicators first become
visible.
4. Keep tires properly inflated.
5. Maintain sufficient distance between your vehicle and
the vehicle in front of you to avoid a collision in a sudden
stop.DRIVING THROUGH WATER
Driving through water more than a few inches/
centimeters deep will require extra caution to ensure
safety and prevent damage to your vehicle.
364 STARTING AND OPERATING
PAGE POSITION:364JOB:@zeta.tweddle.com/chry_pdm/CLS_chrysler/GRP_owners/JOB_918945-en-dsr-12D482-126-AA_DSR/DIV_og pubnum: 12D482-126-AB_DSR WARNING!
Rapid acceleration on slippery surfaces is dangerous.
Unequal traction can cause sudden pulling of the rear
wheels. You could lose control of the vehicle and
possibly have a collision. Accelerate slowly and
carefully whenever there is likely to be poor traction
(ice, snow, wet mud, loose sand, etc.).
Traction
When driving on wet or slushy roads, it is possible for a
wedge of water to build up between the tire and road
surface. This is known as hydroplaning and may cause
partial or complete loss of vehicle control and stopping
ability. To reduce this possibility, the following precau-
tions should be observed:
1. Slow down during rainstorms or when the roads are
slushy.2. Slow down if the road has standing water or puddles.
3. Replace tires when tread wear indicators first become
visible.
4. Keep tires properly inflated.
5. Maintain sufficient distance between your vehicle and
the vehicle in front of you to avoid a collision in a sudden
stop.DRIVING THROUGH WATER
Driving through water more than a few inches/
centimeters deep will require extra caution to ensure
safety and prevent damage to your vehicle.
364 STARTING AND OPERATING
PAGE POSITION:364JOB:@zeta.tweddle.com/chry_pdm/CLS_chrysler/GRP_owners/JOB_918945-en-dsr-12D482-126-AA_DSR/DIV_og pubnum: 12D482-126-AB_DSR

Flowing/Rising Water
WARNING!
Do not drive on or across a road or path where water
is flowing and/or rising (as in storm run-off). Flow-
ing water can wear away the road or path’s surface
and cause your vehicle to sink into deeper water.
Furthermore, flowing and/or rising water can carry
your vehicle away swiftly. Failure to follow this
warning may result in injuries that are serious or
fatal to you, your passengers, and others around you.
Shallow Standing Water
Although your vehicle is capable of driving through
shallow standing water, consider the following Caution
and Warning before doing so.
CAUTION!
•Always check the depth of the standing water
before driving through it. Never drive through
standing water that is deeper than the bottom of
the tire rims mounted on the vehicle.
•Determine the condition of the road or the path
that is under water and if there are any obstacles in
the way before driving through the standing wa-
ter.
•Do not exceed 5 mph (8 km/h) when driving
through standing water. This will minimize wave
effects.
(Continued)
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 365
PAGE POSITION:365JOB:@zeta.tweddle.com/chry_pdm/CLS_chrysler/GRP_owners/JOB_918945-en-dsr-12D482-126-AA_DSR/DIV_og pubnum: 12D482-126-AB_DSR Flowing/Rising Water
WARNING!
Do not drive on or across a road or path where water
is flowing and/or rising (as in storm run-off). Flow-
ing water can wear away the road or path’s surface
and cause your vehicle to sink into deeper water.
Furthermore, flowing and/or rising water can carry
your vehicle away swiftly. Failure to follow this
warning may result in injuries that are serious or
fatal to you, your passengers, and others around you.
Shallow Standing Water
Although your vehicle is capable of driving through
shallow standing water, consider the following Caution
and Warning before doing so.
CAUTION!
•Always check the depth of the standing water
before driving through it. Never drive through
standing water that is deeper than the bottom of
the tire rims mounted on the vehicle.
•Determine the condition of the road or the path
that is under water and if there are any obstacles in
the way before driving through the standing wa-
ter.
•Do not exceed 5 mph (8 km/h) when driving
through standing water. This will minimize wave
effects.
(Continued)
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 365
PAGE POSITION:365JOB:@zeta.tweddle.com/chry_pdm/CLS_chrysler/GRP_owners/JOB_918945-en-dsr-12D482-126-AA_DSR/DIV_og pubnum: 12D482-126-AB_DSR

CAUTION! (Continued)
•Driving through standing water may cause dam-
age to your vehicle’s drivetrain components. Al-
ways inspect your vehicle’s fluids (i.e., engine oil,
transmission, axle, etc.) for signs of contamination
(i.e., fluid that is milky or foamy in appearance)
after driving through standing water. Do not con-
tinue to operate the vehicle if any fluid appears
contaminated, as this may result in further dam-
age. Such damage is not covered by the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.
•Getting water inside your vehicle’s engine can
cause it to lock up and stall out, and cause serious
internal damage to the engine. Such damage is not
covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
WARNING!
•Driving through standing water limits your vehi-
cle’s traction capabilities. Do not exceed 5 mph
(8 km/h) when driving through standing water.
•Driving through standing water limits your vehi-
cle’s braking capabilities, which increases stop-
ping distances. Therefore, after driving through
standing water, drive slowly and lightly press on
the brake pedal several times to dry the brakes.
•Getting water inside your vehicle’s engine can
cause it to lock up and stall out, and leave you
stranded.
•Failure to follow these warnings may result in
injuries that are serious or fatal to you, your
passengers, and others around you.
366 STARTING AND OPERATING
PAGE POSITION:366JOB:@zeta.tweddle.com/chry_pdm/CLS_chrysler/GRP_owners/JOB_918945-en-dsr-12D482-126-AA_DSR/DIV_og pubnum: 12D482-126-AB_DSR CAUTION! (Continued)
•Driving through standing water may cause dam-
age to your vehicle’s drivetrain components. Al-
ways inspect your vehicle’s fluids (i.e., engine oil,
transmission, axle, etc.) for signs of contamination
(i.e., fluid that is milky or foamy in appearance)
after driving through standing water. Do not con-
tinue to operate the vehicle if any fluid appears
contaminated, as this may result in further dam-
age. Such damage is not covered by the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.
•Getting water inside your vehicle’s engine can
cause it to lock up and stall out, and cause serious
internal damage to the engine. Such damage is not
covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
WARNING!
•Driving through standing water limits your vehi-
cle’s traction capabilities. Do not exceed 5 mph
(8 km/h) when driving through standing water.
•Driving through standing water limits your vehi-
cle’s braking capabilities, which increases stop-
ping distances. Therefore, after driving through
standing water, drive slowly and lightly press on
the brake pedal several times to dry the brakes.
•Getting water inside your vehicle’s engine can
cause it to lock up and stall out, and leave you
stranded.
•Failure to follow these warnings may result in
injuries that are serious or fatal to you, your
passengers, and others around you.
366 STARTING AND OPERATING
PAGE POSITION:366JOB:@zeta.tweddle.com/chry_pdm/CLS_chrysler/GRP_owners/JOB_918945-en-dsr-12D482-126-AA_DSR/DIV_og pubnum: 12D482-126-AB_DSR