1999 Mercury Mountaineer Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 145

Driving The BRAKE warning lamp in the instrument cluster illuminates and remains illuminated (when the ignition is turned ON) until the parking brake is released. ! BRAKE Always set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park). The parking brake is not recommended to stop a moving vehicle. However, if the normal brakes fail, the parking brake can be used to stop your vehicle in an emergency. Since the parking brake applies only the rear brakes, the vehicle's stopping distance will increase greatly and the handling of your vehicle will be adversely affected. Pull the release lever to release the brake. Driving with the parking brake on will cause the brakes to wear out quickly and reduce fuel economy. AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED) The load leveling feature of the air suspension automatically keeps the vehicle at a constant level if a load is added or removed from the vehicle. This system maintains the vehicle height at a constant level by automatically adding air or releasing air from the springs to offset changes in vehicle loads. When ever a door is opened (including the liftgate) the system memorizes and maintains the height of the vehicle until all doors are closed. It is normal to hear a buzz or clicking from the air compressor on the vehicle when the ignition is turned off. The system stays energized for 40 minutes after the ignition is turned off to compensate for any load changes made after the vehicle is parked. 145