1998 Mercury Villager Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 222

Stopping Distances Stopping distances vary with different loads and driving conditions. Use caution when you drive under new conditions and acquaint yourself with your vehicle's performance. Applying the Brakes Apply the brake pedal evenly. Use the "squeeze" technique. Push on the brake pedal with a steadily increasing force. This allows the wheels to continue to roll while you are slowing down, which lets you steer properly. In the event of a sudden stop with ABS equipped vehicles, do not pump the brakes. Pumping the brakes during an anti-lock stop will diminish braking effectiveness. Do not drive with your foot resting on the brake pedal. This will increase your vehicle's stopping distance and may also cause brake damage. WARNING If you are driving down a long or steep hill, shift to a lower gear. Do not apply your brakes continuously, as they may overheat and become less effective. Using the Parking Brake The parking brake pedal is suspended just below the bottom of the instrument panel to the left of the brake pedal. To set the parking brake, press the brake pedal with your right foot and hold it while you push the parking brake pedal down firmly with your left foot. 218