2003 Mercury Mountaineer Driving Your SUV or Truck 1st Printing - Page 2

Introduction INTRODUCTION Welcome to Ford Motor Company's world of Sport Utility Vehicles (SUV) and truck driving! Your new vehicle opens up a completely different and challenging world of travel unlike what you have ever experienced with a conventional car. Now, you'll be able to travel places where roads don't. Most importantly, you'll be able to travel with the safety, comfort and dependability of a Ford-built vehicle. The steering and handling characteristics of vehicles may vary and you must learn and understand the capabilities and limitations of your vehicle through experience. Take it slow and easy until you get to know and understand your vehicle and have confidence in your ability to drive it. Your vehicle, particularly when loaded, may handle differently than an ordinary passenger car. This is because your vehicle has special design and equipment features for cargo-hauling or off-road operation. Familiarize yourself with your vehicle's operating characteristics. Study the "Owner's Guide" and this supplement for specific information and instructions for safe driving under various conditions. All occupants should always wear the safety belts provided and children/infants should use appropriate restraints to minimize the risk of injury or ejection. Driving at speeds safe for road conditions and the use of safety belts are the best means of avoiding the possibility of accident and serious injury. Ford Motor Company reserves the right at any time to change information provided herein, including specifications, design or testing procedures without incurring obligation. 2