1996 Ford Escort Owner's Manual - Page 232

Do not attempt to shift into 1 (First) gear with the clutch pedal depressed at speeds higher than 10 mph (16 km/h). If you do, it could cause a complete clutch failure, making your vehicle inoperative. Steering Your Vehicle Your vehicle may be equipped with power steering. Power steering uses energy from the engine to help steer your vehicle. If the amount of effort needed to steer your vehicle changes at a constant vehicle speed, have the power steering system checked. 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. Never hold the steering wheel to the extreme right or left for more than five seconds if the engine is running. This can damage the power steering pump. Brakes Applying the Brakes Your vehicle has power-assisted brakes that adjust automatically as the brake pads or linings wear down. Your vehicle may have four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes which adjust automatically through everyday use. Refer to section on anti-lock brakes later in this chapter. Apply the brake pedal gradually. Use the "squeeze" technique - push on the brake pedal with a steadily increasing force. This allows the wheels to continue to roll while you are slowing down, which lets you steer properly. 232