2001 Ford Escape Owner's Manual - Page 152

Driving 4x4 system indicator lights The 4x4 mode indicator light illuminates only under the following conditions. If the indicator light illuminates when driving in the 4x4 AUTO mode, contact your Ford dealer as soon as possible. This light steadily illuminates when the 4x4 ON mode is engaged. 4x4 Shifting between 4x4 Auto and ON modes Switch the four-wheel drive control to 4x4 ON to apply power to both axles. When you activate the control to 4x4 ON, the indicator light will illuminate in the instrument cluster. When you switch the control back to 4x4 AUTO for normal on-road operating conditions, the indicator light is activated and will turn off. Either shift can be done at a stop or while driving at any speed. 4X4 AUTO ON Driving off-road with 4x4 Auto Your vehicle is specially equipped for driving on sand, snow, mud and rough terrain and has operating characteristics that are somewhat different from conventional vehicles, both on and off the road. Maintain steering wheel control at all times, especially in rough terrain. Since sudden changes in terrain can result in abrupt steering wheel motion, make sure you grip the steering wheel from the outside. Do not grip the spokes. Drive cautiously to avoid vehicle damage from concealed objects such as rocks and stumps. You should either know the terrain or examine maps of the area before driving. Map out your route before driving in the area. For more information on driving off-road, read the "Four Wheeling" supplement in your owner's portfolio. 152