1998 Mercury Villager Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 230

Driving Through Water Do not drive quickly through standing water, especially if the depth is unknown. Traction or brake capability may be limited and if the ignition system gets wet, your engine may stall. Water may also enter your engine's air intake and cause severe damage to your engine. If driving through deep or standing water is unavoidable, proceed very slowly. Never drive through water that is higher than the bottom of wheel rims. Once through the water, always try the brakes. Wet brakes do not stop the vehicle as effectively as dry brakes. Drying can be improved by moving your vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake pedal. Driving With a Heavy Load The Safety Compliance Certification Label, located on the driver's door pillar, provides important information regarding the weight limits your vehicle can safely carry or tow. The total weight of your vehicle, including 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 on the front axle and rear axle should never be more than the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for the respective axle. The load capacities of your vehicle's tires affect the GVWR or GAWR limitations. Using replacement tires with a higher weight limit than the originals does not increase GVWR or GAWR. Using lower capacity replacement tires may lower GVWR and GAWR limitations. WARNING Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the Safety Compliance Certification Label. 226