2011 Ford F150 Regular Cab Driving Your SUV or Truck 1st Printing - Page 10

Driving Off-Road Driving in mud Be cautious of sudden changes in vehicle speed or direction when you are driving in mud. Even 4WD and 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 rear end of the vehicle does slide while cornering, steer in the direction of the slide until you regain control of the vehicle. After driving through mud, clean off residue stuck to rotating tires, wheels and driveshafts. Excess mud stuck on tires, wheels and rotating driveshafts causes an imbalance that could damage vehicle components. Driving through water Before driving through water, determine the depth. Avoid water higher than the center of the wheel or hubcap. Proceed slowly to avoid splashing; 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. You can dry the brakes faster by driving the vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake pedal. Driving in deep snow 4WD and AWD vehicles are unique in that they can be driven in deep snow that would stop a conventional two-wheel drive vehicle. Shift to a low gear and maintain steady pressure on the accelerator. This will help prevent spinning the wheels while maintaining sufficient momentum to keep from bogging down. Using tire chains or cables will also help. It is preferable to install tire chains or cables on all four tires, if it is allowed per your Owner's Guide. WARNING: If you are driving in slippery conditions that require tire chains or cables, then it is critical that you drive cautiously. Keep speeds down, allow for longer stopping distances and avoid aggressive steering to reduce the chances of a loss of vehicle control which can lead to serious injury or death. If the rear end of the vehicle slides while cornering, steer in the direction of the slide until you regain control of the vehicle. 10 2011 Four Wheel Drive (4wd) Supplement, 1st Printing USA (fus)