Ford Escape Owner's Manual page 221

WARNING: Loaded vehicles, with a higher center of gravity,
may handle differently than unloaded vehicles. Do not overload
your vehicle and use extra precautions, such as driving at slower
speeds, avoiding abrupt steering changes and allowing for increased
stopping distance, when driving a heavily loaded vehicle. Over-loading
or loading the vehicle improperly can deteriorate handling capability
and contribute to loss of vehicle control and vehicle rollover.
BRAKE-SHIFT INTERLOCK
This vehicle is equipped with a brake-shift interlock feature that prevents
the gearshift lever from being moved from P (Park) when the ignition is
in the on position unless brake pedal is pressed.
If you cannot move the gearshift lever out of P (Park) with ignition in
the on position and the brake pedal pressed, it is possible that a fuse has
blown or the vehicle's brake lamps are not operating properly. Refer to
Fuses and relays in the Roadside Emergencies chapter.
Note: For some markets, this feature will be disabled. If the fuse is not
blown, perform the following procedure:
1. Apply the parking brake, turn the ignition to off, then remove the key.
2011 Escape (204)
Owners Guide, 4th Printing
USA (fus)
I n f o r ma t i o n P r o v i d e d b y :
Driving
221