Steering; Disabling Trailer Sway Control; Preparing To Drive - Ford Escape 2010 Owner's Manual

Driving

Disabling trailer sway control

Trailer sway control can be disabled during any key cycle. Pressing and
holding the AdvanceTrac with RSC button for more than five seconds
will disable the trailer sway control feature and the
momentarily and then illuminate solid for that ignition cycle. Trailer sway
control can be re-enabled by momentarily pressing the AdvanceTrac
with RSC button. Trailer sway control will also be re-enabled at each
new key cycle.
WARNING: Turning off trailer sway control increases the risk of
loss of vehicle control, serious injury, or death. Ford does not
recommend disabling this feature except in situations where speed
reduction may be detrimental (e.g., hill climbing), the driver has
significant trailer towing experience, and can control trailer sway and
maintain safe operation.

STEERING

Your vehicle is equipped with an electric power-assisted steering (EPAS)
system. There is no fluid reservoir to check or fill.
If your vehicle loses electrical power while you are driving (or if the
ignition is turned off), you can steer the vehicle manually, but it takes
more effort. Under extreme usage conditions, the steering effort may
increase. This occurs to prevent overheating and permanent damage to
your steering system. If this should occur, you will neither lose the ability
to steer the vehicle manually nor will it cause permanent damage.
Typical steering and driving maneuvers will allow the system to cool and
steering assist will return to normal.
If the steering wanders or pulls, check for:
• an improperly inflated tire.
• uneven tire wear.
• loose or worn suspension components.
• loose or worn steering components.
• improper steering alignment.
A high crown in the road or high crosswinds may also make the steering
seem to wander/pull.

PREPARING TO DRIVE

WARNING: Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover
rate than other types of vehicles.
222
2010 Escape (204)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA (fus)
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