2008 Ford Escape Owner Guide 3rd Printing - Page 201

Driving 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. 4. Press the brake pedal and move the gearshift lever to the desired gear; 1 (First) or R (Reverse). 5. Release the parking brake, then slowly release the clutch pedal while slowly pressing on the accelerator. During each shift, the clutch pedal must be fully depressed to the floor. Make sure the floor mat is properly positioned so it doesn't interfere with the full extension of the clutch pedal. Failure to fully depress the clutch pedal to the floor may cause increased shift efforts, prematurely wear transaxle components or damage the transaxle. 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. 201 2008 Escape (204) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA (fus)