2012 Ford Escape Owner Guide 2nd Printing - Page 227

Driving During each shift, the clutch pedal must be fully pressed 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 press the clutch pedal to the floor may cause increased shift efforts, prematurely wear transmission components or damage the transmission. 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 severely reduce the life of the clutch and could nullify a clutch warranty claim. Recommended shift speeds Upshift according to the following charts for best fuel economy: Upshifts during light to moderate accelerations and cruises (for best fuel economy) Shift from: 1-2 10 mph (16 km/h) 2-3 20 mph (32 km/h) 3-4 30 mph (48 km/h) 4-5 37 mph (60 km/h) Reverse Make sure that your vehicle is at a complete stop before you shift into R (Reverse). Failure to do so may damage the transmission. 1. Hold the clutch pedal down and move the gearshift lever into the neutral position. 2. From the neutral position, move the gearshift lever all the way to the right, then move it down into the R (Reverse) position. Note: The gearshift lever can only be moved into R (Reverse) by moving it from left of 3 (Third) and 4 (Fourth) before shifting into R (Reverse). This is a lockout feature that protects the transmission from accidentally being shifted into R (Reverse) from 5 (Fifth). If R (Reverse) is not fully engaged, press the clutch pedal down and return the gearshift to the neutral position. Release the clutch pedal for a moment, then press it down and shift to R (Reverse) again. 227 2012 Escape (204) Owners Guide, 1st Printing USA (fus)