How to Use Dodge Launch Control
If you own a Dodge car, chances are you have chosen it for its speed and performance. Modern sports cars are equipped with advanced technologies that enable them to crank excellent speed and achieve quick acceleration even from a standing start. One such example is Launch Control, which is a type of advanced driving assistance system (ADAS). Discover how to use Dodge launch control and why you need one.
Key Highlights
• Launch control is an add-on feature to the ADAS to improve acceleration from a standing start.
• Launch control makes it easier to manage wheelspin, torque, and throttle when accelerating.
• Use launch control only in the racetrack or other legal environment as they are prohibited on the highway.
• Be careful when using launch control too much as it can damage your gearbox and other car components over time.
What is the Dodge Launch Control?
Modern vehicles, such as cars, SUVs, and trucks are integrated with several selectable drive modes. The more drive modes are available, the more efficient the vehicle is as you can adjust the drive mode according to the driving conditions and your desired driving experience. Common examples of driving modes include Eco, Sport, and Comfort. However, the actual drive modes vary from vehicle to vehicle.
The Dodge Launch Control is an example of these drive modes, which is equipped in many modern sports cars. With a push of a button, your vehicle functions to activate various components to deliver better handling and more efficient driving experience based on the weather, driving conditions, etc.
The Launch Control is an example of an add-on to the available drive mode in many Dodge cars. It is a type of high-performance and specialized mode since it is not available to all vehicles. It fits into specific driving scenarios. This function is calibrated to alter a vehicle’s response and performance for special driving situations.
How Does the Launch Control Works?
Before you know how to use the launch control, it’s essential that you understand the dynamics and the technology behind this feature.
Imagine this: when you are on the start of a racing line, your goal is to accelerate faster than your opponent so you can get ahead of them at the start of the race. This ability to accelerate quickly is crucial to win a race in a professional setting.
Launch control is designed for this purpose. It minimizes the wheel spin on your car as it manages the torque, throttle, and gear to achieve the maximum speed possible in a short amount of time. Certain Dodge car models are able to reach speeds of 203 mph in less than 10 seconds. Some models can go from 0 to 60 mph in 2 seconds! That is the power of a Launch Control in modern sports cars.
As mentioned, it also impacts the wheel spin; specifically, it helps control the wheel spin to reduce wheels from burning out. Because if your wheels burn out too fast, any speed you generate will be useless while you’re still halfway through the course. When your tires lose grip, your car’s horsepower will be rendered useless and you cannot optimize its performance.
How to Use Dodge Launch Control
If you want to learn how to use Dodge launch control, you’ve come to the right place. You can activate this add-on feature with a press of a button. However, certain things have to happen first before you can understand how to use this feature. It also varies on what specific car you’re driving.
Step 1: Brake and hold.
Press on the brake pedal and hold it for a few seconds.
Step 2: Accelerate.
Press the accelerator until kick down and hold on to that pedal. Wait for a flag to appear on the driver information panel.
Step 3: Start speeding.
Regulate your car’s RPM and start to build up speed. Release the brake pedal and maintain kick down.
Step 4: Engage the clutch/gear.
This action engages the gear (or clutch if you’re driving a manual) and watch your car go!
The above steps work for the Dodge Hellcat but it could depend on the specific Dodge car. Therefore, it is best to refer to the instruction manual on how to use Dodge launch control.
Pros & Cons of Launch Control
Pros of Launch Control
• Maximum acceleration from a standing start
• Manage the wheel spin and prevent tire burnout
• Reduced risk of revving the engine and overheating the transmission
• Manage the toque and throttle
Cons of Launch Control
• Wear on the car’s transmission and drivetrain
• Could damage the tires and clutch over time
Summary: Using Dodge Launch Control
Learning how to use the Dodge Launch Control is fun and exciting. This feature is integrated into the Dodge cars for racing purposes or for use by professional motorsports racers. However, it does not apply for real-world driving. Using launch control is prohibited when cruising the highway. Otherwise, it will be detrimental to your car if you engage the launch control mode and you’re limited in acceleration as it most highways have imposed speed limits.
While it is important to know about how to use the launch control, you must be a responsible driver and know when to use it and when you are unable to. That way, you can ensure the safety of others sharing the highway. If you’re worried about the damage of using launch control on your drivetrain and gearbox, make sure to consider getting the Dodge Powertrain Warranty as it covers the repair and servicing of internal components typically not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
FAQs
Is launch control good or bad?
Using the Dodge launch control has its good and bad. It gives optimal power to a car, especially during the initial acceleration. It also helps ensure that the gearbox does not heat up. However, there is a risk that it could damage the gearbox over time, so use it only when you have to.
Do all cars have launch control?
Most modern sports cars have launch control built into their auto gearbox. It is a software integrated into the Electronic Control Unit (ECU).
What RPM to set launch control?
It is best to start low, such as 2,000 RPM and then gradually increase it. But avoid using launch control over 3,000 RPM to avoid bogging or blowing your tires out.
Can launch control damage a car?
Over time, yes it does. Therefore, use the Dodge launch control when necessary and minimally.
How many times can you use launch control?
There is no specific limit but most transmissions have an undocumented limit of 50 launches due to its damaging effects on the transmission in the long run.
Does launch control damage the gearbox?
When learning how to use Dodge launch control, it’s important to know that this action applies maximum force on the transmission. Thus, it is really harsh on the gearbox and exposes it to maximum wear and tear in the long run. It’s something to consider before you use the launch control than if you were to drive it normally.
