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Driving – FORD 2002 Thunderbird v.1 User Manual

Page 140

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STEERING

Your vehicle is equipped with power steering. Power steering uses energy
from the engine to help steer the vehicle.

To prevent damage to the power steering pump:
• Never hold the steering wheel to the extreme right or the extreme left

for more than a few seconds when the engine is running.

• Do not operate the vehicle with a low power steering pump fluid level

(below the MIN mark on the reservoir).

If the power steering system breaks down (or if the engine is turned
off), you can steer the vehicle manually, but it takes more effort.

If the steering wanders or pulls, the condition could be caused by any of
the following:
• underinflated tire(s) on any wheel(s)
• uneven vehicle loading
• high crown in center of road
• high crosswinds
• wheels out of alignment
• loose or worn suspension components

Speed sensitive steering

The steering in your vehicle is speed sensitive. At high speeds, steering
assist will decrease to improve steering feel. At lower speeds,
maneuverability will be increased.

If the amount of effort required to steer your vehicle changes while
driving at a constant vehicle speed, have the power steering system
checked by your dealer or a qualified service technician.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OPERATION

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 RUN position unless brake pedal is depressed.

Driving

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