1996 Mercury Sable Owner's Manual - Page 236

By moving the vehicle backward and forward, you may gain enough momentum to move out of the spot. Do not rock the vehicle for more than a few minutes. This may overheat the engine, damage the transaxle, or damage the tires. If you are still stuck after a minute or two of rocking, call for a tow truck. High water Do not drive through flooded areas unless you are sure that the water is below the bottom of the wheel rims. If you must drive through high water, drive slowly. You may have limited traction or wet brakes, so allow extra stopping distance because your vehicle will not stop as quickly as usual. After you drive through the standing water, apply your brakes gently several times as your vehicle moves slowly. This helps to dry the brakes. Driving With a Heavy Load There are limits to the amount of weight your vehicle can carry or tow. The total weight of your vehicle, plus the weight of the passengers and cargo, should never be more than the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Also, the weight that your vehicle carries over the front axle and rear axle should never be more than the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for the respective axle. You can find your vehicle's GVWR and GAWR on the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the left front door lock facing or on the door latch post pillar. 209