2011 Ford Escape Owner Guide 4th Printing - Page 226

Driving 2. Press the clutch pedal to the floor, then put the gearshift lever in the neutral position. 3. Start the engine. 4. Press the brake pedal and move the gearshift lever to the desired gear; 1 (First) or R (Reverse). 5. Release the parking brake, then slowly release the clutch pedal while slowly pressing on the accelerator. During each shift, the clutch pedal must be fully pressed to the floor. Make sure the floor mat is properly positioned so it doesn't interfere with the full extension of the clutch pedal. Failure to fully press the clutch pedal to the floor may cause increased shift efforts, prematurely wear transmission components or damage the transmission. Do not drive with your foot resting on the clutch pedal or use the clutch pedal to hold your vehicle at a standstill while waiting on a hill. These actions will severely reduce the life of the clutch and could nullify a clutch warranty claim. Recommended shift speeds Upshift according to the following charts for best fuel economy: Upshifts during light to moderate accelerations and cruises (for best fuel economy) Shift from: 1-2 10 mph (16 km/h) 2-3 20 mph (32 km/h) 3-4 30 mph (48 km/h) 4-5 37 mph (60 km/h) Reverse Make sure that your vehicle is at a complete stop before you shift into R (Reverse). Failure to do so may damage the transmission. 226 2011 Escape (204) Owners Guide, 4th Printing USA (fus)