2000 Mercury Cougar Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 161

Driving It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a safety belt properly. Driving with a heavy load The total weight of the vehicle plus the total weight of passengers and cargo should never exceed the GVWR. The weight that the vehicle carries over the front and rear axles should never exceed the GAWR for the respective axle. The weight limits of your vehicle's tires affect the GVWR and GAWR limitations. Using tires with higher weight limits than the original tires will not increase the GVWR or GAWR of your vehicle; using tires with lower weight limits may lower the GVWR or GAWR of your vehicle. Using a luggage rack The sunroof opens to the outside. When placing a luggage rack or any load on the roof, ensure there is proper clearance before opening the sunroof. 161