1997 Ford Contour Owner's Manual - Page 134
1997 Ford Contour Manual
Page 134 highlights
Driving When to use 2 (Second) When your vehicle is in 2 (Second), it automatically starts off in second gear. Use 2 (Second) to help drive up moderately steep hills or restart from a standstill on slippery roads. It prevents the transaxle from frequently shifting up and down. It also gives more engine braking than D (Drive) (with Transaxle Control Switch activated) when going down hills. Do not go faster than 55 mph (90 km/h) in this gear. You can upshift from 2 (Second) into D (Overdrive) at any speed. When to use 1 (First) This position limits the transaxle to first gear. It helps brake the vehicle when going down hills where 2 (Second) is not sufficient. Do not go faster than 38 mph (60 km/h) in this gear. You can upshift from 1 (First) to 2 (Second) or from 1 (First) to D (Overdrive) at any speed. P (Park) Always come to a complete stop before you shift into P (Park). Make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park). This locks the transaxle and prevents the front wheels from rotating. RWARNING Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn off the ignition whenever you leave your vehicle. RWARNING Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running. 135