1997 Mercury Sable Owner's Manual - Page 84
1997 Mercury Sable Manual
Page 84 highlights
Driving accelerator in each gear. Do not rock the vehicle for more than a few minutes, because it could damage the vehicle. Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn off the ignition whenever you leave your vehicle. Driving with an automatic overdrive transaxle (column gearshift without O/D off switch) Your automatic overdrive transaxle provides fully (Overdrive) or D automatic operation in either (Drive). Driving with the shift selector in gives the best fuel economy for normal driving conditions. For manual control start in 1 (First) and then shift manually. To put your vehicle in gear, start the engine, depress the brake pedal, then move gearshift out of P (Park). Hold the brake pedal down while you move the gearshift lever from position to position. If you do not hold the brake pedal down, your vehicle may move unexpectedly and injure someone. 84