2004 Ford Escape Owner's Manual - Page 64

Driver Controls Always stow the inner rack on the roof when using an automated car wash. Do not attempt to open the liftgate or rear window when the rack is in the down position. This may damage the rack or your vehicle. To ensure proper sliding function of your rack, keep the rack clear of debris. If debris is visible inside the roof c-channels or side rails, spray the items clear with a water hose. Do not load large or bulky items (i.e., plywood, mattresses) on the rear of the vehicle so that they extend above the roof line. In addition to blocking your rear view, they can also cause dangerous driving situations and possibly cause damage to your vehicle. Use additional care when driving with reduced visibility. Only load cargo in the designated area. Loading outside of the approved area could result in personal injury as well as vehicle damage that may not be covered by warranty. Vehicles with a higher center of gravity such as utility and four-wheel drive vehicles handle differently than vehicles with a lower center of gravity. Utility and four-wheel drive vehicles are not designed for cornering at speeds as high as passenger cars any more than low-slung sport cars are designed to perform satisfactorily under off-road conditions. Avoid sharp turns, excessive speed and abrupt maneuvers in these vehicles. Failure to drive cautiously could result in an increase risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death. 64 2004 Escape (204) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)