2001 Mercury Cougar Owner Guide 2nd Printing - Page 189

Roadside emergencies The temporary spare tire The vehicle may have a high pressure temporary spare tire. This spare is smaller than a regular tire and is designed for emergency use only. Vehicles with traction control (if equipped) may exhibit some unusual driving characteristics which can be avoided by switching the system off. Drive cautiously and replace the temporary spare tire as soon as possible. If you use the temporary spare tire continuously or do not follow these precautions, the tire could fail, causing you to lose control of the vehicle, possibly injuring yourself or others. When driving with a temporary spare tire: • Do not exceed the maximum speed of 80 km/h (50 mph) and only drive the shortest possible distance. • Do not exceed the permissible gross weight of the vehicle. • Do not install more than one spare wheel on your vehicle at any one time. • Do not use snow chains on this type of wheel. • Do not drive through an automatic car wash.