FORD 2003 Focus - Manual (Page 119)

If necessary, try turning the Traction Control
௢ or AdvanceTrac௢ system
off. This will allow the wheels to spin, which may help to free your stuck
vehicle. For more information, refer to Traction Control
௢ (if equipped)
or AdvanceTrac
௢ stability enhancement system (if equipped) in this
chapter.
Do not rock the vehicle if the engine is not at normal operating
temperature or damage to the transmission may occur.
Do not rock the vehicle for more than a minute or damage to the
transmission and tires may occur, or the engine may overheat.
MANUAL TRANSMISSION OPERATION (IF EQUIPPED)
Using the clutch
The manual transaxle has a starter interlock that prevents cranking the
engine unless the clutch pedal is fully depressed.
To start the vehicle:
1. Make sure the parking brake is fully set.
2. Press the clutch pedal to the floor, then put the gearshift lever in the
neutral position.
3. Start the engine, then press the brake pedal and release the parking
brake.
4. Move the gearshift lever to the desired gear, then slowly release the
clutch pedal while slowly pressing on the accelerator.
Do not drive with your foot resting on the clutch pedal or use the clutch
pedal to hold your vehicle at a standstill while waiting on a hill. These
actions will reduce the life of the clutch.
Reverse
Make sure that your vehicle is at a complete stop before you shift into R
(Reverse). Failure to do so may damage the transaxle.
• If your vehicle is equipped with the SPI engine, move the
gearshift lever fully to the right, then back into R (Reverse).
1 3 5
2 4 R
Driving
119