1997 Ford Explorer Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 119

Driving based on driver and road inputs to optimize ride. The combination of firm dampening and height change also provides maximum suspension feedback for improved off-road safety and performance. The vehicle will drop to its lowest position when the ignition is turned to the Off position to provide easy entry and exit to of the vehicle. As a safety consideration, whenever a door is opened (including the liftgate and liftgate glass), the system memorizes and maintains the height at the moment the door was opened. The system will maintain this height either until all doors are closed or until vehicle speed exceeds 16 kph (10 mph). An on board air compressor and solenoids are used to raise and lower the vehicle. It is normal to occasionally a buzz or clicking from the vehicle even when the ignition is turned to Off. The system stays energized for 40 minutes after the ignition is turned off to compensate for any load changes after the vehicle is parked. The Automatic Ride Control system operation can be monitored through the message center. Refer to Message center in the Instrumentation chapter. 120