2004 Ford Focus Owner Guide 2nd Printing - Page 119

Driving If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow, it may be rocked out by shifting from forward and reverse gears, stopping between shifts in a steady pattern. Press lightly on the accelerator in each gear. If necessary, try turning the Traction Control௢ system off. This will allow the wheels to spin, which may help to free your stuck vehicle. For more information, refer to Traction Control௢ (if equipped) in this chapter. Do not rock the vehicle if the engine is not at normal operating temperature or damage to the transmission may occur. Do not rock the vehicle for more than a minute or damage to the transmission and tires may occur, or the engine may overheat. MANUAL TRANSMISSION OPERATION (IF EQUIPPED) 1 2 3 4 5 R Using the clutch The manual transaxle has a starter interlock that prevents cranking the engine unless the clutch pedal is fully depressed. To start the vehicle: 1. Make sure the parking brake is fully set. 2. Press the clutch pedal to the floor, then put the gearshift lever in the neutral position. 3. Start the engine, then press the brake pedal and release the parking brake. 4. Move the gearshift lever to the desired gear, then slowly release the clutch pedal while slowly pressing on the accelerator. Do not drive with your foot resting on the clutch pedal or use the clutch pedal to hold your vehicle at a standstill while waiting on a hill. These actions will reduce the life of the clutch. 119 2004 Focus (foc) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)