1997 Mercury Villager Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 227

N (Neutral) In N (Neutral), the wheels of the transaxle are not locked. Your vehicle will roll freely, even on the slightest incline, unless the parking brake or brakes are on. Parking Always come to a complete stop before you shift into P (Park). This position locks the transaxle and prevents the front wheels from turning. To securely latch the gearshift in the P (Park) position, pull it toward you, push it completely counterclockwise against the stop, and then push it toward the instrument panel. The gearshift is securely latched in Park (P) if you cannot rotate it in a clockwise direction without lifting it toward you. RWARNING 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. RWARNING Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running. Forced Downshifts To gain extra acceleration in Drive (D) (when passing another vehicle) push the accelerator to the floor. The transaxle will automatically downshift to the appropriate gear - third, second or first. 228