2004 Mercury Sable Owner Guide 3rd Printing - Page 134

Driving Even when the ABS is disabled, normal braking is still effective. (If your BRAKE warning lamp illuminates with the parking brake released, have your brake system serviced immediately.) Parking brake To set the parking brake (1), press the parking brake pedal down until the pedal stops. To release, pull the lever (2). Always set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park). ! P BRAKE 2 1 The BRAKE warning lamp will illuminate and will remain illuminated until the parking brake is released. ! P BRAKE The parking brake is not recommended to stop a moving vehicle. However, if the normal brakes fail, the parking brake can be used to stop your vehicle in an emergency. Since the parking brake applies only the rear brakes, the vehicle's stopping distance will increase greatly and the handling of your vehicle will be adversely affected. Park brake warning chime Sounds when the parking brake is set, the engine is running, the vehicle speed is greater than 5 km/h (3 mph), and the transaxle is not in P (Park) or N (Neutral). The chime will shut off when the parking brake is disengaged. TRACTION CONTROLி (IF EQUIPPED) Your vehicle may be equipped with a Traction Control௢ system. This system helps you maintain the stability and steerability of your vehicle, especially on slippery road surfaces such as snow- or ice-covered roads and gravel roads. The system will allow your vehicle to make better use of available traction in these conditions. 134 2004 Sable (sab) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)