2002 Mercury Villager Owner's Manual - Page 163

Driving If the parking brake is fully released, but the brake warning lamp remains illuminated, the brakes may not be working properly. See your dealer or a qualified service technician. Understanding gearshift positions Your automatic transaxle electronically controls the shift feel by using an adaptive learning strategy. This feature is designed to optimize shift smoothness. It is normal for your transaxle to shift firmly during the first few hundred kilometers (miles) of operation until the adaptive strategy has been learned. The adaptive learning strategy is maintained by power from the battery. When the battery is disconnected or a new battery is installed, the transaxle must relearn its adaptive strategy. Optimal shifting will resume within a few hundred kilometers (miles) of operation. P (Park) Always come to a complete stop before shifting into P (Park). Make P R N D 2 1 sure the gearshift lever is securely latched in P (Park). This locks the transaxle and prevents the front wheels from rotating. Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the LOCK position and remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle. R (Reverse) With the gearshift lever in R (Reverse), the vehicle will move P R N D backward. You should always come to a complete stop before shifting into and out of R (Reverse). N (Neutral) With the gearshift lever in the N P (Neutral) position, the vehicle can be started and is free to roll. Hold the brake pedal down while in this position. 2 1 R N D 2 1 163