2003 Mercury Sable Owner Guide 2nd Printing - Page 115

Driving Parking brake To set the parking brake (1), press the parking brake pedal down until the pedal stops. To release, pull the lever (2). Always set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park). 2 1 The BRAKE warning lamp will illuminate and will remain illuminated until the parking brake is released. ! P BRAKE The parking brake is not recommended to stop a moving vehicle. However, if the normal brakes fail, the parking brake can be sued 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. Park brake warning chime Sounds when the parking brake is set, the engine is running and the transaxle is not in P (Park) or N (Neutral). The chime will shut off when the parking brake is disengaged. TRACTION CONTROLி (IF EQUIPPED) Your vehicle may be equipped with a Traction Control௢ system. This system helps you maintain the stability and steerability of your vehicle, especially on slippery road surfaces such as snow- or ice-covered roads and gravel roads. The system will allow your vehicle to make better use of available traction in these conditions. During Traction Control௢ operation, the traction control active light will illuminate, you may hear an electric motor type of sound coming from the engine compartment and the engine will not "rev-up" when you push further on the accelerator. This is normal system behavior and should be no reason for concern. 115