1997 Ford Windstar Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 227

Driving WARNING Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn off the ignition whenever you leave your vehicle. WARNING If the parking brake is fully released, but the Brake System light remains on, have the brakes checked immediately. They may not be working properly. The parking brake is not designed to stop a moving vehicle, but you can use the parking brake to stop your vehicle in an emergency if the service brakes fail. However, since the parking brake does not stop your vehicle as quickly as the normal brakes, the stopping distance will increase greatly. Traction Control (If equipped) Traction Control can help improve your traction on slippery surfaces, but always operate your vehicle within reasonable limits. Abrupt changes in acceleration, deceleration, turning, or combinations of these maneuvers can cause your vehicle to behave differently than anticipated, especially when road conditions vary. To turn Traction Control off, press the button located in the center of the instrument panel. Traction Control can be turned back on by pressing the button again or by restarting the engine. 227