2002 Mercury Cougar Owner's Manual - Page 120

Driving The Traction Control on/off switch, located in the center of the instrument panel illuminates when the system is OFF. The Traction Control system will revert to the ON position every time the ignition is turned OFF and ON. If you should become stuck in snow or ice or on a very slippery road surface, try switching the Traction Control system off. This may allow excess wheel spin to "dig" the vehicle out and enable a successful "rocking" maneuver. If a system fault is detected the OFF indicator lamp on the traction control switch will be illuminated and your vehicle should be serviced. STEERING Your vehicle is equipped with power steering. Power steering uses energy from the engine to decrease the driver's effort in steering the vehicle. To prevent damage to the power steering pump: • Never hold the steering wheel to the extreme right or the extreme left for more than a few seconds when the engine is running. • Do not operate the vehicle with the power steering pump fluid level below the MIN mark on the reservoir. If the power steering system breaks down (or if the engine is turned off), you can steer the vehicle manually, but it takes more effort. If the steering wanders or pulls, the condition could be caused by any of the following: • Underinflated tire(s) on any wheel(s) • Uneven vehicle loading • High crown in center of road • High crosswinds • Wheels out of alignment • Loose or worn suspension components AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OPERATION (IF EQUIPPED) Brake-shift interlock If you cannot move the gearshift lever out of P (Park) with the brake pedal depressed: 120