2014 Ford Focus Owner Manual Printing 1 - Page 169

168 Transmission Recommended Shift Speeds The engine is designed to operate at a minimum of 1250 RPM for optimal power, fuel economy, and durability. When driving a vehicle equipped with a manual transmission, do not operate the engine below 1250 RPM while driving with the transmission in any gear (also known as ЉluggingЉ). This does not apply while starting or idling the engine while the transmission is in neutral and/or the clutch pedal is pressed. Lugging the engine below 1250 RPM may result in damage to the vehicle powertrain, poor fuel economy, poor acceleration, and undesirable noise, vibration, and harshness. Choose the next lowest gear until a proper engine RPM is reached. Note: Do not downshift into 1 (First) when your vehicle is moving faster than 15 mph (24 km/h). This will damage the clutch. Upshift according to the following chart: Recommended upshifts (for best fuel economy) when accelerating 5-speed manual transmission Shift from: -2 14 mph (23 km/h) -3 24 mph (39 km/h) -4 32 mph (51 km/h) -5 44 mph (71 km/h) 1 2 3 4 Reverse Note: Make sure that your vehicle is at a complete stop before you shift into R (Reverse). Failure to do so may damage the transmission. 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). Hold the clutch pedal down and move the gearshift lever into the neutral position. Shift into R (Reverse). 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. 2014 Focus (foc) Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing, October 2012 USA (fus)