2001 Ford Mustang Owner Guide 3rd Printing - Page 111

Driving Always set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park) (automatic transmission) or in 1 (First Gear) (manual transmission). 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. To release the parking brake, the brake handle may need to be pulled up slightly to release pressure before pushing in the button. Push the button on the end of the parking brake handle and push the handle down as far as possible. Driving with the parking brake applied will cause the brakes to wear out quickly and reduce fuel economy. TRACTION CONTROLி Your vehicle may be equipped with the optional Traction Control௢ system. This system helps you maintain the stability and steerability of your vehicle. It is especially useful on slippery road surfaces. The system operates by detecting and controlling wheel spin. The system borrows many of the electronic and mechanical elements already present in the anti-lock braking system (ABS). Wheel-speed sensors allow excess rear wheel spin to be detected by the Traction Control௢ portion of the ABS computer. Any excessive wheel spin is controlled by automatically applying and releasing the rear brakes in conjunction with engine torque 111