2004 Ford Escape Owner's Manual - Page 128

Driving MANUAL TRANSAXLE OPERATION (IF EQUIPPED) Using the clutch Vehicles equipped with a manual transaxle have a starter interrupt interlock that prevents cranking of the engine unless the clutch pedal is depressed. When starting a vehicle with a manual transaxle, you must: 1. Put the gearshift lever in the neutral position. 1 2 3 4 5 R 2. Hold down the brake pedal. 3. Depress the clutch pedal. 4. Without depressing the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition to position 4 (START), release the ignition as soon as the engine starts. 5. Let the engine idle for a few seconds. 6. Release the brake pedal, then slowly release the clutch pedal while pressing down slowly on the accelerator pedal. Do not drive with your foot resting on the clutch pedal and do not use the clutch pedal to hold your vehicle at a standstill while waiting on a hill. These actions will seriously reduce clutch life. 128 2004 Escape (204) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)