2001 Mercury Mountaineer Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 144

Starting Important safety precautions A computer system controls the engine's idle revolutions per minute (RPM). When the engine starts, the idle RPM runs faster to warm the engine. If the engine idle speed does not slow down automatically, have the vehicle checked. Before starting the vehicle: 1. Make sure all vehicle occupants have buckled their safety belts. For more information on safety belts and their proper usage, refer to the Seating and safety restraints chapter. 2. Make sure the headlamps and vehicle accessories are off. • Make sure the parking brake is set. • Make sure the gearshift is in P (Park). 3. Turn the key to 4 (ON) without turning the key to 5 (START). If there is difficulty in turning the key, firmly rotate the steering wheel left and right until the key turns freely. This condition may occur when: • front wheels are turned • front wheel is against the curb 4 3 5 2 1 144