2023 DODGE HORNET Owners Manual

STARTING AND OPERATING87
When exiting the vehicle, always:

1. Apply the parking brake.

2. Shift the transmission into PARK.
3. Turn the engine off.
4. Remove the key fob from the vehicle.
NOTE:Block the wheels with a wedge or a stone if the vehicle is
parked on a steep slope.
The following indicators should be used to ensure that you
have properly engaged the transmission into the PARK
position:
When shifting into PARK, push the lock button on the
gear selector, and firmly move the selector all the way
forward until it stops and is fully seated.
 Look at the transmission gear position display and
verify that it indicates the PARK position (P).
 With the brake pedal released, verify that the gear
selector will not move out of PARK.
REVERSE (R)
This range is for moving the vehicle backward. Shift into
REVERSE only after the vehicle has come to a complete
stop.
NEUTRAL (N)
Use this range when the vehicle is standing for prolonged
periods with the engine running. The engine may be
started in this range. Apply the parking brake and shift the
transmission into PARK if you must exit the vehicle.
DRIVE (D)
This range should be used for most city and highway
driving. It provides the smoothest upshifts and downshifts,
and the best fuel economy. The transmission
automatically upshifts through all forward gears. If the transmission temperature exceeds normal operating
limits, the transmission controller may modify the
transmission shift schedule, reduce engine torque, and/or
expand the range of torque converter clutch engagement.
This is done to prevent transmission damage due to
overheating.
If the transmission becomes extremely hot, the
Transmission Temperature Warning Light may illuminate,
and the transmission may operate differently until the
transmission cools down.
During cold temperatures, transmission operation may be
modified depending on engine and/or transmission
temperature as well as vehicle speed. This feature
improves warm-up time of the engine and transmission to
achieve maximum efficiency. Engagement of the torque
converter clutch (and shifts into EIGHTH or NINTH gear),
are inhibited until the engine and/or transmission is
warm. Normal operation will resume once the
temperature(s) have risen to a suitable level.
TRANSMISSION LIMP HOME MODE
Transmission function is monitored electronically for
abnormal conditions. If a condition is detected that could
result in transmission damage, Transmission Limp Home
Mode is activated. In this mode, the transmission may
operate only in a fixed gear, or may remain in NEUTRAL
(N). The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may be
illuminated. Limp Home Mode may allow the vehicle to be
driven to an authorized dealer for service without
damaging the transmission.
CAUTION!

Before moving the transmission gear selector out of
PARK, you must turn the ignition to the ON/RUN posi -
tion, and also press the brake pedal. Otherwise,
damage to the gear selector could result.
 DO NOT race the engine when shifting from PARK or
NEUTRAL into another gear range, as this can
damage the drivetrain.WARNING!
Do not coast in NEUTRAL and never turn off the ignition
to coast down a hill. These are unsafe practices that
limit your response to changing traffic or road
conditions. You might lose control of the vehicle and
have a collision.
CAUTION!
Towing the vehicle, coasting, or driving for any other
reason with the transmission in NEUTRAL can cause
severe transmission damage.
For Recreational Towing
Úpage 126.
For Towing A Disabled Vehicle
Úpage 220.
4

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88STARTING AND OPERATING
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 (P), if possible. If
not, shift the transmission to NEUTRAL.
3. Push and hold the ignition until the engine turns off.
4. Wait approximately 30 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 recommend that
you visit an authorized dealer at your earliest possible
convenience. An authorized dealer has diagnostic
equipment to assess the condition of your transmission.
If the transmission cannot be reset, authorized dealer
service is required.
TORQUE CONVERTER CLUTCH
A feature designed to improve fuel economy has been
included in the automatic transmission on your vehicle.
A clutch within the torque converter engages
automatically at calibrated speeds. This may result in a
slightly different feeling or response during normal
operation in the upper gears. When the vehicle speed
drops or during some accelerations, the clutch
automatically disengages.
NOTE:The torque converter clutch will not engage until the
engine and/or transmission is warm (usually after 1 to
3 miles [2 to 5 km] of driving). Because the engine speed
is higher when the torque converter clutch is not engaged,
it may seem as if the transmission is not shifting properly
when the vehicle is cold. This is normal. The torque
converter clutch will function normally once the powertrain
is sufficiently warm.
ALL-WHEEL DRIVE (AWD)
This feature provides on-demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD).
The system is automatic with no driver inputs or additional
driving skills required. Under normal driving conditions,
the front wheels provide most of the traction. If the front
wheels begin to lose traction, power is shifted
automatically to the rear wheels. The greater the front
wheel traction loss, the greater the power transfer to the
rear wheels.
Additionally, on dry pavement under heavy throttle input
(where one may have no wheel spin), torque will be sent to
the rear in a preemptive effort to improve vehicle launch
and performance characteristics.
SPORT MODE — IF EQUIPPED
Your vehicle is equipped with a SPORT Mode feature. The
engine, transmission, and steering systems are all set to
their SPORT settings. SPORT Mode will provide improved
throttle response and modified transmission shift points
for an enhanced driving experience, as well as greater
amount of steering feel.
This mode may be activated and deactivated by pushing
the SPORT button on the steering wheel. For PHEV
versions the SPORT button is located below the STOP/
START button.
POWER STEERING

The electric power steering system will provide increased
vehicle response and ease of maneuverability. The electric
power steering system adapts to different driving conditions.

If the “SERVICE POWER STEERING” or “POWER
STEERING ASSIST OFF - SERVICE SYSTEM”
message and a steering wheel icon display on
the instrument cluster, it indicates that the
vehicle needs service. It may be necessary to perform the
recalibration maneuver by turning the steering wheel from
full left position to full right position. If the problem is still
present, take the vehicle to an authorized dealer for
service. It is likely the vehicle has lost power steering
assistance
Úpage 66.
CAUTION!
All wheels must have the same size and type tires.
Unequal tire sizes must not be used. Unequal tire size
may cause failure of the power transfer unit.
WARNING!
Continued operation with reduced assist could pose a
safety risk to yourself and others. Service should be
obtained as soon as possible.

23_GG_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 88

STARTING AND OPERATING89
If the “POWER STEERING SYSTEM HOT -
PERFORMANCE MAY BE LIMITED” message
and a steering wheel icon display on the
instrument cluster, it indicates that extreme
steering maneuvers may have occurred, which caused an
over temperature condition in the electric power steering
system. You will lose power steering assistance
momentarily until the over temperature condition no
longer exists. Once driving conditions are safe, pull over
and let the vehicle idle for a few moments until the light
turns off
Úpage 66.
NOTE:
 Even if the power steering system is no longer opera -
tional, it is still possible to steer the vehicle. Under
these conditions there will be a substantial increase in
steering effort, especially at low speeds and during
parking maneuvers.
 If the condition persists, see an authorized dealer for
service.
STOP/START SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED
The Stop/Start function is designed to reduce fuel
consumption. The system will stop the engine
automatically during a vehicle stop if the required
conditions are met. Releasing the brake pedal or pressing
the accelerator pedal will automatically restart the engine.
This vehicle has been upgraded with a heavy-duty starter,
enhanced battery, and other upgraded engine parts, to
handle the additional engine starts.
AUTOSTOP MODE
The Stop/Start feature is enabled after every normal
customer engine start. At that time, the system will go into
STOP/START READY.
To Activate The Autostop Mode, The Following Must Occur:
The system must be in STOP/START READY state. A
“STOP/START READY” message will be displayed in the
instrument cluster display within the Stop/Start
section
Úpage 66.
 The vehicle must be completely stopped.
 The gear selector must be in a forward gear and the
brake pedal pressed.
The engine will shut down, the tachometer will move to the
zero position, and the Stop/Start telltale will illuminate
indicating you are in Autostop. Customer settings will be
maintained upon return to an engine-running condition.
POSSIBLE REASONS THE ENGINE DOES
N
OT AUTOSTOP
Prior to engine shut down, the system will check many
safety and comfort conditions to see if they are fulfilled.
Detailed information about the operation of the Stop/Start
system may be viewed in the instrument cluster display
Stop/Start Screen. In the following situations the engine
will not stop:
 Driver’s seat belt is not buckled.
 Driver’s door is not closed.
 Battery temperature is too warm or cold. 
Battery charge is low.
 The vehicle is on a steep grade.
 Cabin heating or cooling is in process and an accept -
able cabin temperature has not been achieved.
 HVAC is set to full defrost mode at a high blower speed.
 HVAC is set to MAX A/C.
 Engine has not reached normal operating temperature.
 The transmission is not in a forward gear.
 Hood is open.
 Brake pedal is not pressed with sufficient pressure.
 Accelerator pedal input.
 Engine temperature is too high.
 5 mph (8 km/h) threshold has not been achieved from
previous Autostop.
 Steering angle beyond threshold.
 Adaptive Cruise Control is on and speed is set.
It may be possible for the vehicle to be driven several
times without the Stop/Start system going into a STOP/
START READY state under more extreme conditions of the
items listed previously.
4

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90STARTING AND OPERATING
TO START THE ENGINE WHILE IN
A
UTOSTOP MODE
While in a forward gear, the engine will start when the
brake pedal is released or the accelerator pedal is
pressed. The transmission will automatically re-engage
upon engine restart.
Conditions That Will Cause The Engine To Start
Automatically While In Autostop Mode:
 The transmission selector is moved out of DRIVE (D).
 To maintain cabin temperature comfort.
 HVAC is set to full defrost mode.
 HVAC system temperature or fan speed is manually
adjusted.
 Battery voltage drops too low.
 Stop/Start OFF switch is pressed.
 A Stop/Start system error occurs.
 Steering wheel is turned beyond threshold.
Conditions That Force An Application Of The Electric Park
Brake While In Autostop Mode:
 The driver’s door is open and brake pedal released.
 The driver’s door is open and the driver’s seat belt is
unbuckled.
 The engine hood has been opened.
 A Stop/Start system error occurs.
If the Electric Park Brake (EPB) is applied with the engine
off, the engine may require a manual restart and the EPB
may require a manual release (press brake pedal and
press EPB switch)
Úpage 66.
TO MANUALLY TURN OFF THE STOP/
S
TART SYSTEM

Stop/Start OFF Switch

Push the Stop/Start OFF switch (located near the gear
shifter). The light on the switch will illuminate. The “STOP/
START OFF” message will appear in the instrument cluster
display and the Autostop mode will be disabled
Úpage 66.
NOTE:The Stop/Start system will reset itself back to an ON
condition every time the ignition is turned off and back on.
TO MANUALLY TURN ON THE STOP/
S
TART SYSTEM
Push the Stop/Start OFF switch (located on the switch
bank). The light on the switch will turn off.
SYSTEM MALFUNCTION
If there is a malfunction in the Stop/Start system, the
system will not shut down the engine. A “SERVICE STOP/
START SYSTEM” message and a yellow Stop/Start telltale
will appear in the instrument cluster display
Úpage 66.
If the “SERVICE STOP/START SYSTEM” message appears
in the instrument cluster display, have the system
checked by an authorized dealer.
ACTIVE SPEED LIMITER — IF EQUIPPED
This feature allows you to program the maximum speed of
travel for your vehicle.
The Active Speed Limiter is turned on/off using the Mode
button located on the left side of the steering wheel.

Mode Button

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STARTING AND OPERATING91
NOTE:
The Mode button also activates the Adaptive Cruise
Control (ACC) system. Pushing the Mode button will
switch between activating the Active Speed Limiter or
the Adaptive Cruise Control systems. They cannot be
active at the same time.
 The Active Speed Limiter can be set while the vehicle is
in motion, or with the gear selector in the PARK posi -
tion.
ACTIVATION
To activate the feature, push the Mode button located on
the left side of the steering wheel. A white indicator light in
the instrument cluster display to signal that Active Speed
Limiter has been enabled.
After the Active Speed Limiter system is enabled, activate
the system by setting the speed limit of the vehicle by
pushing the SET switch upward or downward.
Pushing the SET switch upward or downward to the first
detent, and releasing, will result in a 1 mph (1 km/h)
speed adjustment. Each subsequent movement of the
switch to the first detent will result in an adjustment of
1 mph (1 km/h).
If the switch is pushed upward or downward briefly to
the second detent, the set speed will adjust in 5 mph
(10 km/h) increments. The new set speed is reflected in
the instrument cluster display. If the switch is held upward or downward, the set speed
will continue to adjust until the switch is released.
NOTE:

Once the speed as been set, the indicator light in the
instrument cluster display will change to green.
 If Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) or the Active Speed
Limiter is active when the ignition is placed in the
OFF position, it will remain activated when the vehicle
is started again.
 ACC will be unavailable while the Active Speed Limiter
is in use.
EXCEEDING THE SET SPEED
By fully pressing the accelerator pedal, the programmed
maximum speed can be exceeded while the device is
active.
In the event that the Active Speed Limiter set value is
exceeded manually with a driver acceleration, an audible
chime will sound. The indicator light will flash rapidly, and
a message will appear in the instrument cluster display.
The feature will remain disabled until the vehicle speed
drops below the set Active Speed Limiter value, where it
will reactivate automatically.
NOTE:While driving at a higher speed than previously set, the set
limit can be updated by pushing the SET switch upward or
downward to the new desired speed.
DEACTIVATION
To turn off Active Speed Limiter, push the Mode button
again. The indicator light in the instrument cluster display
will no longer be illuminated to confirm that the feature
has been turned off, and Adaptive Cruise Control will be
active.
The Active Speed Limiter can be deactivated by pressing
the CANC button. In this case, the system is not completely
turned off, and the driver can reactivate the Active Speed
Limiter by pressing the RES button to the previously set
speed.
INTELLIGENT SPEED ASSIST (ISA) —
IF EQUIPPED
The Intelligent Speed Assist (ISA) system
combines the Active Speed Limiter and
Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) systems to
automatically adjust the maximum speed of
the vehicle based on detected speed limit signs.
When the ISA system is activated, the maximum speed of
the vehicle will be adjusted according to the detected
traffic signs depending on the Sign Capture Mode selected
within Uconnect Settings
Úpage 130.
4

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92STARTING AND OPERATING
ACTIVATION

To activate the feature, make sure the Traffic Sign
Recognition (TSR), and Intelligent Speed Assist (ISA) systems
are both enabled within Uconnect Settings

Ú
page 130, then
activate the Active Speed Limiter system by pushing the Mode
button located on the left of the steering wheel.

The white ISA indicator light in the instrument cluster
display will illuminate to signal that the system has been
enabled, but not yet detected a speed limit sign.
NOTE:Adaptive Cruise Control will be unavailable while the
ISA system is in use.
SIGN CAPTURE MODES
The way in which the ISA system sets a new maximum
vehicle speed depends on the Sign Capture Mode set
within the Uconnect system. When a new maximum speed
limit is set, the ISA indicator light in the instrument cluster
display will change from white to green.
Confirmation Mode
When Confirmation Mode is selected, and the Traffic Sign
Recognition (TSR) system detects a new speed limit sign,
the driver will confirm this new speed by pushing the
SET switch upward briefly, then releasing. This
confirmation of the new speed must be done within
five seconds of a newly detect speed limit sign being
shown in the instrument cluster display. Automatic Mode
When Automatic Mode is selected, the ISA system will
automatically adjust the maximum vehicle speed when
the TSR system detects a new speed limit sign. The new
speed is shown in the instrument cluster display.
The driver can reject this new speed by pushing the SET
switch upward briefly, then releasing within five seconds
of the new speed limit sign being detected and the speed
being adjusted.
NOTE:If a newly detected speed limit sign indicates a speed
higher or lower than the current maximum speed limit of
the Active Speed Limiter system, a message along with an
up arrow or a down arrow will appear in the instrument
cluster display to alert the driver.
EXCEEDING THE SET SPEED
By fully pressing the accelerator pedal, the maximum set
speed of the vehicle can be exceeded while the system is
active.
When the maximum set speed is exceeded, the green
indicator light on the instrument cluster display will blink
until the accelerator pedal is released and the vehicle
speed drops below the previously set maximum vehicle
speed. The ISA system will then resume normal operation.
DEACTIVATION
The ISA system will deactivate in the following situations:

When the Mode button is pushed again
 When the TSR system is deactivated
 When the TSR system cannot detect/display any speed
limit
 When the TSR system detects the end of the speed
limit zone
CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEMS
Your vehicle is equipped with the Adaptive Cruise Control
(ACC) system. ACC will adjust the vehicle speed up to the
preset speed to maintain a distance with the vehicle
ahead.
NOTE:If Active Speed Limiter is enabled, Adaptive Cruise Control
will be unavailable, and vice versa.
ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL (ACC)
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) increases the driving
convenience provided by Cruise Control while traveling on
highways and major roadways. However, it is not a safety
system and not designed to prevent collisions.

23_GG_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 92

STARTING AND OPERATING93
(Continued)
ACC will allow you to keep Cruise Control engaged in light
to moderate traffic conditions without the constant need
to reset your speed. ACC utilizes a radar sensor and a
forward facing camera designed to detect a vehicle
directly ahead of you to maintain a set speed.
NOTE:

If the ACC sensor detects a vehicle ahead, ACC will
apply limited braking or accelerate (not to exceed the
original set speed) automatically to maintain a preset
following distance, while matching the speed of the
vehicle ahead.
 Any chassis/suspension or tire size modifications to
the vehicle will affect the performance of the Adaptive
Cruise Control and Forward Collision Warning system.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Operation
The buttons on the left side of the steering wheel operate
the ACC system.

Adaptive Cruise Control Buttons

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) System
Status
The instrument cluster display will show the current ACC
system settings. The information it displays depends on
ACC system status.
Push the Mode button to enable the ACC system.
WARNING!
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is a convenience
system. It is not a substitute for active driver involve -
ment. It is always the driver’s responsibility to be
attentive of road, traffic, and weather conditions,
vehicle speed, distance to the vehicle ahead and,
most importantly, brake operation to ensure safe
operation of the vehicle under all road conditions.
Your complete attention is always required while
driving to maintain safe control of your vehicle.
Failure to follow these warnings can result in a
collision and death or serious personal injury.
 The ACC system:
 Does not react to pedestrians, oncoming vehi -
cles, and stationary objects (e.g., a stopped
vehicle in a traffic jam or a disabled vehicle).
 Cannot take street, traffic, and weather condi -
tions into account, and may be limited upon
adverse sight distance conditions.
 Does not always fully recognize complex driving
conditions, which can result in wrong or missing
distance warnings.
You should turn the ACC system off:
 When driving in fog, heavy rain, heavy snow, sleet,
heavy traffic, and complex driving situations
(i.e., in highway construction zones).
 When entering a turn lane or highway off-ramp; when
driving on roads that are winding, icy, snow-covered,
slippery, or have steep uphill or downhill slopes.
 When towing a trailer up or down steep slopes.
 When circumstances do not allow safe driving at a
constant speed.
WARNING!
1 — RES/Resume Button
2 — SET (+/-) Switch
3 — Mode Button
4 — CANC/Cancel Button
5 — Distance Setting Button
4

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94STARTING AND OPERATING
Adaptive Cruise Control Off
When ACC is deactivated, all ACC visualizations will not be
shown in the instrument cluster display.
Adaptive Cruise Control Ready
When ACC is activated, but the vehicle speed setting has
not been selected, the white ACC icon will illuminate above
dashes in place of a speed in the instrument cluster
display.
Adaptive Cruise Control Set
When the vehicle has reached the desired speed, push
the SET switch up or down briefly, then release. When the
ACC speed is set, the green ACC icon over the set speed
will illuminate in the instrument cluster display.
When the ACC menu screen is not being viewed in the
instrument cluster display, a green triangle will illuminate
on the speedometer at the location of the set speed.
NOTE:If the ACC system is canceled or paused, the triangle on
the speedometer will change to white, indicating the
saved set speed for when the RES button pushed.
Activating Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
The minimum set speed for the ACC system is 19 mph
(30 km/h).
NOTE:You cannot engage ACC under the following conditions:
When the brakes are applied
 When the parking brake is applied
 When the gear selector is in PARK, REVERSE or
NEUTRAL 
When the vehicle speed is below the minimum speed
range
 When the brakes are overheated
 When the driver’s door is open at low speeds
 When the driver’s seat belt is unbuckled at low speeds
 When there is a stationary vehicle in front of your
vehicle in close proximity
To Activate/Deactivate
Push and release the Mode button located on the left side
of the steering wheel to activate ACC. Then proceed to
setting the desired speed as described in the next section.
NOTE:Active Speed Limiter will be unavailable while ACC is in
use.
To turn the system off, push and release the Mode button
again. At this time, the system will turn off and Active
Speed Limiter will be active.
The system will also turn off during any of the conditions
listed in “To Turn Off”
Úpage 95.
To Set A Desired Speed
When the vehicle has reached the desired speed, push
the SET switch up or down briefly, then release. The
instrument cluster display will show the set speed.

If ACC is set when the vehicle speed is
below
19 mph
(30 km/h), the set speed will default to 19 mph (30 km/h).

If either system is set when the vehicle speed is above
19 mph (30 km/h), the set speed shall be the current speed of the vehicle.
NOTE:
 Keeping your foot on the accelerator pedal can cause
the vehicle to continue to accelerate beyond the set
speed.
 If you continue to accelerate beyond the set speed
while ACC is enabled, the system will not be controlling
the distance between your vehicle and the vehicle
ahead. The vehicle speed will only be determined by
the position of the accelerator pedal.
WARNING!
Leaving the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system on
when not in use is dangerous. You could accidentally
set the system or cause it to go faster than you want.
You could lose control and have a collision. Always leave
the system off when you are not using it.
WARNING!
If the Active Speed Limiter is active, the system will not
react to vehicles ahead. In addition, the proximity
warning does not activate and no alarm will sound even
if you are too close to the vehicle ahead since neither
the presence of the vehicle ahead nor the
vehicle-to-vehicle distance is detected. Be sure to
maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the
vehicle ahead. Always be aware which mode is
selected.

23_GG_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 94