2004 Ford Escape Owner's Manual - Page 233

Maintenance and Specifications Safety practices Driving habits have a great deal to do with your tire mileage and safety. • Observe posted speed limits • Avoid fast starts, stops and turns • Avoid potholes and objects on the road • Do not run over curbs or hit the tire against a curb when parking If you vehicle is stuck in snow, mud, sand, etc., do not rapidly spin the tires; spinning the tires can tear the tire and cause an explosion. A tire can explode in as little as three to five seconds. Tire explosions can cause death, personal injury or property damage. Do not allow anyone to stand near, or directly ahead or behind the spinning tire. Never spin the tires in excess of the 55 km/h (35 mph) point indicated on the speedometer. Highway hazards No matter how carefully you drive there's always the possibility that you may eventually have a flat tire on the highway. Drive slowly to the closest safe area out of traffic. This may further damage the flat tire, but your safety is more important. If you feel a sudden vibration or ride disturbance while driving or you suspect your tire or vehicle has been damaged, immediately reduce your speed. Drive with caution until you can safely pull off the road. Stop and inspect the tire for damage. If the tire is under-inflated or damaged, deflate it, remove wheel and replace it with your spare tire and wheel. If you cannot detect a cause, have the vehicle towed to the nearest repair facility or tire dealer to have the vehicle inspected. USING SNOW TIRES AND TRACTION DEVICES Snow tires must be the same size and grade as the tires you currently have on your vehicle. The tires on your vehicle have all-weather treads to provide traction in rain and snow. However, in some climates, using snow tires or traction devices may be necessary. 233 2004 Escape (204) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)