Mercury Mountaineer (2010 year). Manual — part 18

Switching Off AdvanceTrac

威 with RSC威

If the vehicle is stuck in snow, mud or sand, and seems to lose engine
power, switching off certain features of the AdvanceTrac

威 with RSC威

system may be beneficial because the wheels are allowed to spin. This
will restore full engine power and will enhance momentum through the
obstacle. To switch off the AdvanceTrac

威 with RSC威 system press the

AdvanceTrac

威 with RSC威 ⬙Off⬙ button. Full features of the AdvanceTrac威

with RSC

威 system can be restored by pressing the AdvanceTrac威 with

RSC

威 ⬙Off⬙ button again or by turning off and restarting the engine.

If you switch off the AdvanceTrac

威 with RSC威 system, the sliding car⬙

icon

will illuminate steadily. Pressing the AdvanceTrac

威 with RSC威

⬙Off⬙ button again will turn off the ⬙sliding car⬙ icon

.

In R (Reverse), ABS and the Engine and Brake Traction Control features
will continue to function; however, ESC and RSC

威 are disabled.

AdvanceTrac

威 with RSC威 Features

Button
functions

“Sliding

car”

icon

RSC

威

ESC

Engine

Traction

Control

Brake

Traction

Control

Default at
start-up

Off

Enabled

Enabled

Enabled

Enabled

Button
pressed
momentarily

Illuminated

solid

Disabled

below

25 mph

(40 km/h)

Disabled

below

25 mph

(40 km/h)

Disabled

below

25 mph

(40 km/h)

Enabled

Button
pressed and
held more
than five
seconds

Flashes

then

illuminated

solid

Disabled

below

25 mph

(40 km/h)

Disabled

below

25 mph

(40 km/h)

Disabled

below

25 mph

(40 km/h)

Disabled

below

25 mph

(40 km/h)

Trailer Sway Control

When properly equipped, trailer sway control will use the vehicle’s
AdvanceTrac

威 with RSC威 system to detect and help reduce trailer sway

by applying brake force at individual wheels and, if necessary, by
reducing engine power. Trailer sway control is only enabled above
40 mph (64 km/h).

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WARNING: Trailer sway control does not prevent a trailer from
swaying, it mitigates the sway from increasing once it has

occurred. If you are experiencing trailer sway it is likely that the trailer
is improperly loaded for the correct tongue weight or the speed of the
vehicle and trailer is too high. Pull the vehicle-trailer over to a safe
location to check the trailer weight distribution and tongue load and
reduce speed to a safe level while towing. If trailer sway is
experienced, SLOW DOWN.

During Trailer Sway Control events, the

icon in the instrument

cluster will flash momentarily. The message center will also display
TRAILER SWAY REDUCE SPEED. In some cases when trailer sway is
detected, the vehicle speed is too high and may be at or above a speed
at which trailer sway will grow continuously. This may cause the system
to activate multiple times, and you may experience a slight deceleration
of the vehicle.

Disabling Trailer Sway Control

Trailer sway control can be disabled during any key cycle. See Trailer
Sway Control under Refer to Message center in the Instrument Cluster
chapter for more information. Note that even if it was disabled before
turning off the vehicle, Trailer Sway Control will be re-enabled at each
new key cycle.

WARNING: Turning off Trailer Sway Control increases the risk
of loss of vehicle control, serious injury, or death. Ford does not

recommend disabling this feature except in situations where speed
reduction may be detrimental (e.g., hill climbing), the driver has
significant trailer towing experience, and can control trailer sway and
maintain safe operation.

STEERING

To help prevent damage to the power steering system:
• Never hold the steering wheel at its furthest turning points (until it

stops) for more than a few seconds when the engine is running

• Do not operate the vehicle with a low power steering pump fluid level

(below the MIN mark on the reservoir).

• Some noise is normal during operation. If the noise is excessive, check

for low power steering pump fluid level before seeking service by your
authorized dealer.

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• Heavy or uneven steering efforts may be caused by low power steering

pump fluid level. Check for low power steering pump fluid level before
seeking service by your authorized dealer.

• Do not fill the power steering pump reservoir above the MAX mark on

the reservoir, as this may result in leaks from the reservoir.

If the power steering system breaks down (or if the engine is turned
off), you can steer the vehicle manually, but it takes more effort. If the
steering wanders or pulls, check for:
• an improperly inflated tire
• uneven tire wear
• loose or worn suspension components
• loose or worn steering components
• improper steering alignment
A high crown in the road or high crosswinds may also make the steering
seem to wander/pull.

PREPARING TO DRIVE

WARNING: Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover
rate than other types of vehicles.

WARNING: In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is
significantly more likely to die than a person wearing a seat belt.

Utility vehicles and trucks have larger tires and increased ground
clearance, giving the vehicle a higher center of gravity than a passenger
car.

WARNING: Vehicles with a higher center of gravity such as
utility vehicles and trucks handle differently than vehicles with a

lower center of gravity. Utility vehicles and trucks are not designed for
cornering at speeds as high as passenger cars any more than low-slung
sports cars are designed to perform satisfactorily under off-road
conditions. Avoid sharp turns, excessive speed or abrupt maneuvers in
these vehicles. Failure to drive cautiously could result in an increased
risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and
death.

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WARNING: Loaded vehicles, with a higher center of gravity,
may handle differently than unloaded vehicles. Do not overload

your vehicle and use extra precautions, such as driving at slower
speeds, avoiding abrupt steering changes and allowing for increased
stopping distance, when driving a heavily loaded vehicle. Over-loading
or loading the vehicle improperly can deteriorate handling capability
and contribute to loss of vehicle control and vehicle rollover.

BRAKE-SHIFT INTERLOCK

This vehicle is equipped with a brake-shift interlock feature that prevents
the gearshift lever from being moved from P (Park) when the ignition is
in the on position unless brake pedal is pressed.

If you cannot move the gearshift lever out of P (Park) with ignition in
the on position and the brake pedal pressed:

1. Apply the parking brake, turn ignition key to off, then remove the key.

2. Remove the rubber pad at the
bottom of the cup holder to locate
the access cap of the floor shifter
assembly.

3. Using a screwdriver (or
equivalent), remove the access
panel and depress the shifter lever
on the shift mechanism.

4. Apply the brake and shift into N
(Neutral).

5. Return the cover plug to the console access hole. Start the vehicle.

If it is necessary to use the above procedure to move the gearshift lever,
it is possible that a fuse has blown or the vehicle’s brakelamps are not
operating properly. Refer to Fuses and relays in the Roadside
Emergencies chapter.

WARNING: Do not drive your vehicle until you verify that the
brakelamps are working.

WARNING: Always set the parking brake fully and make sure
the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the off

position and remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.

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WARNING: If the parking brake is fully released, but the brake
warning lamp remains illuminated, the brakes may not be

working properly. See your authorized dealer.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OPERATION
Driving with a 5–speed automatic transmission (if equipped)
This vehicle is equipped with an Adaptive Transmission Control Strategy.
This Adaptive Transmission Control Strategy offers the optimal
transmission operation and shift quality. When the vehicle’s battery has
been disconnected for any type of service or repair, the transmission will
need to relearn the normal shift strategy parameters, much like having to
reset your radio stations when your vehicle battery has been
disconnected. The Adaptive Transmission Control Strategy allows the
transmission to relearn these operating parameters. This learning process
could take several transmission upshifts and downshifts; during this
learning process, slightly firmer shifts may occur. After this learning
process, normal shift feel and shift scheduling will resume.

P (Park)

This position locks the transmission
and prevents the rear wheels from
turning.

To put your vehicle in gear:
• Start the engine
• Press the brake pedal
• Press the gearshift release button

on the front of the lever and
move the gearshift lever into the
desired gear

To put your vehicle in P (Park):
• Come to a complete stop
• Move the gearshift lever and

securely latch it in P (Park)

WARNING: Always set the parking brake fully and make sure
the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the

LOCK position and remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.

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R (Reverse)

With the gearshift lever in R (Reverse), the vehicle will move backward.
Always come to a complete stop before shifting into and out of R
(Reverse).

N (Neutral)

With the gearshift lever in N (Neutral), the vehicle can be started and is
free to roll. Hold the brake pedal down while in this position.

D (Drive) with Overdrive

The normal driving position for the best fuel economy. Transmission
operates in gears one through five.

D (Drive) without Overdrive

Overdrive can be deactivated by
pressing the transmission control
switch on the side of the gearshift
lever.
• This position allows for all

forward gears (1-4) except
overdrive.

• Provides engine braking.
• Use when driving conditions

cause excessive shifting from O/D
to other gears. Examples: heavy
city traffic where continuous
shifting in and out of overdrive
occurs, hilly terrain, heavy loads,
trailer towing and when engine
braking is required.

• O/D OFF lamp is illuminated.
• To return to O/D (overdrive

mode), press the transmission
control switch. The O/D OFF
lamp will not be illuminated.

• O/D (Overdrive) is automatically returned each time the key is turned

off.

O/D

OFF

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3 (Third)

Transmission operates in third gear only.

Used for improved traction on slippery roads. Selecting 3 (Third)
provides engine braking.

2 (Second)

Use 2 (Second) to start-up on slippery roads or to provide additional
engine braking on downgrades.

1 (First)
• Provides maximum engine braking.
• Allows upshifts by moving gearshift lever.
• Will not downshift into 1 (First) at high speeds; allows for 1 (First)

when vehicle reaches slower speeds.

Forced downshifts
• Allowed in D (Overdrive) or Drive.
• Press the accelerator to the floor.
• Allows transmission to select an appropriate gear.

Driving with a 6–speed automatic transmission (if equipped)

This vehicle is equipped with an Adaptive Transmission Shift Strategy.
Adaptive Transmission Shift Strategy offers the optimal transmission
operation and shift quality. The adaptive information will be stored
automatically in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and Transmission
Control Module (TCM). When the vehicle’s battery has been
disconnected for any type of service or repair, the transmission will need
to relearn the normal shift strategy parameters, much like having to reset
your radio stations when your vehicle battery has been disconnected.
The Adaptive Transmission Shift Strategy allows the transmission to
relearn these operating parameters. This learning process could take
several transmission upshifts and downshifts; during this learning
process, slightly firmer shifts may occur. After this learning process,
normal shift feel and shift scheduling will resume.

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P (Park)

This position locks the transmission
and prevents the rear wheels from
turning.

To put your vehicle in gear:
• Press the brake pedal
• Start the engine
• Press the gearshift lever release

button (on the front of the lever)
and shift into the desired gear

To put your vehicle in P (Park):
• Come to a complete stop
• Move the gearshift lever and

securely latch it in P (Park)

WARNING: Always set the parking brake fully and make sure
the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the off

position and remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.

R (Reverse)

With the gearshift lever in R (Reverse), the vehicle will move backward.
Always come to a complete stop before shifting into and out of R
(Reverse).

N (Neutral)

With the gearshift lever in N (Neutral), the vehicle can be started and is
free to roll. Hold the brake pedal down while in this position.

D (Drive) with Overdrive

The normal driving position for the best fuel economy. Transmission
operates in gears one through six.

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D (Drive) without Overdrive

Overdrive can be deactivated by
pressing the transmission control
switch on the side of the shift lever.
• This position allows for all

forward gears (1-5) except
overdrive.

• Provides engine braking.
• Use when driving conditions

cause excessive shifting from O/D
to other gears. Examples: heavy
city traffic where continuous
shifting in and out of overdrive
occurs, hilly terrain, heavy loads,
trailer towing and when engine
braking is required.

• O/D OFF lamp is illuminated.
• To return to O/D (overdrive

mode), press the transmission
control switch. The O/D OFF
lamp will not be illuminated.

• O/D (Overdrive) is automatically returned each time the key is turned

off.

3 (Third)

Transmission operates in third gear only.

Used for improved traction on slippery roads. Selecting 3 (Third)
provides engine braking.

2 (Second)

Transmission operates in 2nd gear only.

Use 2 (Second) to start-up on slippery roads or to provide additional
engine braking on downgrades.

1 (First)
• Transmission operates in 1st gear only.
• Provides maximum engine braking.

O/D

OFF

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• Allows upshifts by moving gearshift lever.

• Will not downshift into 1 (First) at high speeds; allows for 1 (First)

when vehicle reaches slower speeds.

Forced downshifts
• Allowed in D (Drive) only.

• Press the accelerator to the floor.

• Allows transmission to select an appropriate gear.

If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow
If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow, it may be rocked out by
shifting between forward and reverse gears, stopping between shifts in a
steady pattern. Press lightly on the accelerator in each gear.
Do not rock the vehicle if the engine is not at normal operating
temperature or damage to the transmission may occur.
Do not rock the vehicle for more than a minute or damage to the
transmission and tires may occur, or the engine may overheat.
REVERSE SENSING SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
The Reverse Sensing System (RSS) sounds a tone to warn the driver of
obstacles near the rear bumper when the R (Reverse) is selected and the
vehicle is moving at speeds less than 3 mph (5 km/h). The system is not
effective at speeds above 3 mph (5 km/h) and may not detect certain
angular or moving objects.

WARNING: To help avoid personal injury, please read and
understand the limitations of the reverse sensing system as

contained in this section. Reverse sensing is only an aid for some
(generally large and fixed) objects when moving in reverse on a flat
surface at “parking speeds”. Inclement weather may also affect the
function of the RSS; this may include reduced performance or a false
activation.

WARNING: To help avoid personal injury, always use caution
when in R (Reverse) and when using the RSS.

WARNING: This system is not designed to prevent contact with
small or moving objects. The system is designed to provide a

warning to assist the driver in detecting large stationary objects to
avoid damaging the vehicle. The system may not detect smaller
objects, particularly those close to the ground.

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WARNING: Certain add-on devices such as large trailer hitches,
bike or surfboard racks and any device that may block the

normal detection zone of the RSS system may create false beeps.

The RSS detects obstacles up to six
feet (two meters) from the rear
bumper with a decreased coverage
area at the outer corners of the
bumper, (refer to the figures for
approximate zone coverage areas).
As you move closer to the obstacle,
the rate of the tone increases. When
the obstacle is less than 10 inches
(25.0 cm) away, the tone will sound
continuously. If the RSS detects a
stationary or receding object further
than 10 inches (25.0 cm) from the
side of the vehicle, the tone will
sound for only three seconds. Once
the system detects an object
approaching, the tone will sound
again.

While receiving a warning the radio volume will be reduced to a
predetermined level. After the warning goes away, the radio will return
to the previous value.

The RSS automatically turns on when the gearshift lever is placed in R
(Reverse) and the ignition is on. A control in the message center allows
the driver to disable the system, refer to Message center in the
Instrument Cluster chapter for more information.

Keep the RSS sensors (located on the rear bumper/fascia) free
from snow, ice and large accumulations of dirt (do not clean the
sensors with sharp objects). If the sensors are covered, it will
affect the accuracy of the RSS.

If your vehicle sustains damage to the rear bumper/fascia, leaving
it misaligned or bent, the sensing zone may be altered causing
inaccurate measurement of obstacles or false alarms.

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ALL WHEEL DRIVE (AWD) SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)

For the lubricant specification and refill capacity of the AWD transfer
case refer to Maintenance and Specifications chapter.

WARNING: If your vehicle is equipped with AWD, a spare tire of
a different size than the road tires should never be used. Such a

tire could make the vehicle difficult to control as well as result in
damage to driveline components.

WARNING: Utility and four-wheel drive vehicles are not
designed for cornering at speeds as high as passenger cars any

more than low-slung sports cars are designed to perform satisfactorily
under off-road conditions. Avoid sharp turns or abrupt maneuvers in
these vehicles.

Normal operation (4.0L engine vehicles only)

The AWD system is always active and requires no driver input. It is
capable of handling all road conditions, including street and highway
driving as well as off-road conditions such as deep snow, ice or shallow
sand.

Normal operation (4.6L engine vehicles only)

During normal operation the AWD system is in AWD AUTO mode (AWD
LOCKED will illuminate in the message center for four seconds when
you first start your vehicle). The 4X4 indicator in the instrument cluster
will briefly illuminate when you first start your vehicle.

For instructions on selecting the AWD LOCKED mode, refer to Message
center in the Instrument Cluster chapter. This mode is not intended for
use on dry pavement. This mode is appropriate for severe winter or
off-road conditions such as deep snow, ice or shallow sand. The use of
AWD LOCKED on dry or hard surfaces may produce some noise, such as
occasional clunks, but will not damage the drive system.

Autolock operation (4.6L engine vehicles only)

If the AWD system begins to overheat, the system will place itself in the
Autolock mode:
• AWD LOCKED will be displayed in the message center for four

seconds and the 4x4 indicator light will illuminate in the instrument
cluster. A warning chime will also sound. This condition may clear

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without any action being taken by the driver once the AWD system
has reached a safe operating temperature.

• The 4X4 indicator light in the instrument cluster will turn off when

the AWD system reaches a safe operating temperature and normal
AWD operation is restored.

Driving off-road with truck and utility vehicles
AWD vehicles are specially equipped for driving on sand, snow, mud and
rough terrain and have operating characteristics that are somewhat
different from conventional vehicles, both on and off the road.
How your vehicle differs from other vehicles
Truck and utility vehicles can differ from some other vehicles. Your
vehicle may be higher to allow it to travel over rough terrain without
getting hung up or damaging underbody components.
The differences that make your vehicle so versatile also make it handle
differently than an ordinary passenger car.
Maintain steering wheel control at all times, especially in rough terrain.
Since sudden changes in terrain can result in abrupt steering wheel
motion, make sure you grip the steering wheel from the outside. Do not
grip the spokes.
Drive cautiously to avoid vehicle damage from concealed objects such as
rocks and stumps.
You should either know the terrain or examine maps of the area before
driving. Map out your route before driving in the area. To maintain
steering and braking control of your vehicle, you must have all four
wheels on the ground and they must be rolling, not sliding or spinning.
Basic operating principles
• Drive slower in strong crosswinds which can affect the normal steering

characteristics of your vehicle.

• Be extremely careful when driving on pavement made slippery by

loose sand, water, gravel, snow or ice.

If your vehicle goes off the edge of the pavement
• If your vehicle goes off the edge of the pavement, slow down, but

avoid severe brake application, ease the vehicle back onto the
pavement only after reducing your speed. Do not turn the steering
wheel too sharply while returning to the road surface.

• It may be safer to stay on the apron or shoulder of the road and slow

down gradually before returning to the pavement. You may lose
control if you do not slow down or if you turn the steering wheel too
sharply or abruptly.

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• It often may be less risky to strike small objects, such as highway

reflectors, with minor damage to your vehicle rather than attempt a
sudden return to the pavement which could cause the vehicle to slide
sideways out of control or rollover. Remember, your safety and the
safety of others should be your primary concern.

WARNING: Vehicles with a higher center of gravity such as
utility and four-wheel drive vehicles handle differently than

vehicles with a lower center of gravity. Utility and four-wheel drive
vehicles are not designed for cornering at speeds as high as passenger
cars any more than low-slung sports cars are designed to perform
satisfactorily under off-road conditions. Avoid sharp turns, excessive
speed and abrupt maneuvers in these vehicles. Failure to drive
cautiously could result in an increased risk of loss of vehicle control,
vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.

If your vehicle gets stuck

If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow it may be rocked out by
shifting between forward and reverse gears, stopping between shifts, in a
steady pattern. Press lightly on the accelerator in each gear.

Do not rock the vehicle if the engine is not at normal operating
temperature or damage to the transmission may occur.

Do not rock the vehicle for more than a few minutes or damage
to the transmission and tires may occur or the engine may
overheat.

WARNING: Always set the parking brake fully and make sure
the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the

LOCK position and remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.

WARNING: If the parking brake is fully released, but the brake
warning lamp remains illuminated, the brakes may not be

working properly. See your authorized dealer.

WARNING: Do not spin the wheels at over 35 mph (56 km/h).
The tires may fail and injure a passenger or bystander.

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Emergency maneuvers
• In an unavoidable emergency situation where a sudden sharp turn

must be made, remember to avoid “over-driving” your vehicle (i.e.,
turn the steering wheel only as rapidly and as far as required to avoid
the emergency). Excessive steering will result in less vehicle control,
not more. Additionally, smooth variations of the accelerator and/or
brake pedal pressure should be utilized if changes in vehicle speed are
called for. Avoid abrupt steering, acceleration or braking which could
result in an increased risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover
and/or personal injury. Use all available road surface to return the
vehicle to a safe direction of travel.

• In the event of an emergency stop, avoid skidding the tires and do not

attempt any sharp steering wheel movements.

WARNING: Vehicles with a higher center of gravity such as
utility and four-wheel drive vehicles handle differently than

vehicles with a lower center of gravity. Utility and four-wheel drive
vehicles are not designed for cornering at speeds as high as passenger
cars any more than low-slung sports cars are designed to perform
satisfactorily under off-road conditions. Avoid sharp turns, excessive
speed and abrupt maneuvers in these vehicles. Failure to drive
cautiously could result in an increased risk of loss of vehicle control,
vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.

• If the vehicle goes from one type of surface to another (i.e., from

concrete to gravel) there will be a change in the way the vehicle
responds to a maneuver (steering, acceleration or braking). Again,
avoid these abrupt inputs.

AWD Systems (if equipped)

AWD uses all four wheels to power the vehicle. This increases traction,
enabling you to drive over terrain and road conditions that a
conventional two-wheel drive vehicle cannot.

Sand

When driving over sand, try to keep all four wheels on the most solid
area of the trail. Avoid reducing the tire pressures but shift to a lower
gear and drive steadily through the terrain. Apply the accelerator slowly
and avoid spinning the wheels.

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Note: If your vehicle is equipped with the Tire Pressure Monitoring
System (TPMS), the system indicator light may illuminate depending on
how much air is released from your tires and/or how long you drive the
vehicle under these conditions.

Avoid excessive speed because vehicle momentum can work against you
and cause the vehicle to become stuck to the point that assistance may
be required from another vehicle. Remember, you may be able to back
out the way you came if you proceed with caution.

Mud and water

If you must drive through high
water, drive slowly. Traction or
brake capability may be limited.

When driving through water,
determine the depth; avoid water
higher than the bottom of the hubs
(if possible) and proceed slowly. If
the ignition system gets wet, the vehicle may stall.

Once through water, always try the brakes. Wet brakes do not stop the
vehicle as effectively as dry brakes. Drying can be improved by moving
your vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake pedal.

Be cautious of sudden changes in vehicle speed or direction when you
are driving in mud. Even AWD vehicles can lose traction in slick mud. As
when you are driving over sand, apply the accelerator slowly and avoid
spinning your wheels. If the vehicle does slide, steer in the direction of
the slide until you regain control of the vehicle.

If the transmission, transfer case or front axle are submerged in water,
their fluids should be checked and changed, if necessary.

Driving through deep water may damage the transmission.

If the front or rear axle is submerged in water, the axle lubricant should
be replaced.

After driving through mud, clean off residue stuck to rotating driveshafts
and tires. Excess mud stuck on tires and rotating driveshafts causes an
imbalance that could damage drive components.

“Tread Lightly” is an educational
program designed to increase public
awareness of land-use regulations
and responsibilities in our nations
wilderness areas. Ford Motor

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