2012 Ford Explorer Owner Guide 2nd Printing - Page 285

Driving D (Drive) with Overdrive The normal driving position for the best fuel economy. Transmission operates in gears one through six. The automatic transmission shift strategy has the ability to detect hilly terrain or mountainous areas and will provide a limited amount of grade assist features automatically. Refer to D (Drive) with Grade assist or SelectShift for more information. D (Drive) with Tow on The tow feature improves transmission operation when towing a trailer or a heavy load. All transmission gear ranges are available when using tow. Tow can be activated by pressing the TOW switch located on the instrument panel by the headlamp control. The TOW/HAUL message will illuminate in the instrument cluster. The tow feature delays upshifts to reduce frequency of transmission shifting. Tow also provides engine braking in all forward gears when the transmission is in the D (Overdrive) position. This engine braking will slow the vehicle and assist the driver in controlling the vehicle when descending a grade. Depending on driving conditions and load conditions, the transmission may downshift, slow the vehicle and control the vehicle speed when descending a hill, without the accelerator pedal being pressed. The amount of downshift braking provided will vary based upon the amount the brake pedal is depressed. To deactivate the tow feature and return to normal driving mode, press the TOW button. The tow light will no longer be illuminated. When you shut-off and restart the engine, the transmission will automatically return to normal D (Overdrive) mode (tow off). WARNING: Do not use the tow feature when driving in icy or slippery conditions as the increased engine braking can cause the rear wheels to slide and the vehicle to swing around with the possible loss of vehicle control. 285 2012 Explorer (exp) Owners Guide, 2nd Printing USA (fus)