1997 Mercury Grand Marquis Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 160

when you shift into R (Reverse). To release the parking brake manually, pull the brake release handle [marked (P)] located on the lower left corner of the instrument panel. The pedal is now released and will reset the next time you press the pedal. The Brake System Warning Light will glow if the parking brake is not fully released when the engine is running. RWARNING To prevent personal injury, do not release the parking brake while outside the vehicle. Always check the Brake Warning Light each time you start your engine. Driving with the parking brake on will cause the brakes to wear out quickly and will reduce the fuel economy. RWARNING If the parking brake is fully released, but the Brake System light remains on, have the brakes checked immediately. They may not be working properly. The parking brake system is designed for static parking only and is not designed to stop a moving vehicle, but you can use the parking brake to stop your vehicle in an emergency if the normal brakes fail. However, since the parking brake applies only the rear brakes, the stopping distance will increase greatly and the handling of your vehicle will be adversely affected. 160