Driving In Special Conditions With All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
AWD vehicles are equipped for driving on sand, snow, mud and rough
roads and have operating characteristics that are somewhat different
from conventional vehicles, both on and off the highway.
When driving at slow speeds in deep sand under high outside
temperatures, use a low gear when possible. Lower gear operation
will maximize the engine and transmission cooling capability.
Under severe operating conditions, the A/C may cycle on and off to
protect overheating of the engine.
Basic operating principles in special conditions
•
Drive slower in strong crosswinds which can affect the normal steering
characteristics of your vehicle.
•
Be extremely careful when driving on pavement made slippery by
loose sand, water, gravel, snow or ice.
If Your Vehicle Goes Off the Edge of the Pavement
•
If your vehicle goes off the edge of the pavement, slow down, but
avoid severe brake application, ease the vehicle back onto the
pavement only after reducing your speed. Do not turn the steering
wheel too sharply while returning to the road surface.
•
It may be safer to stay on the apron or shoulder of the road and
slow down gradually before returning to the pavement. You may lose
control if you do not slow down or if you turn the steering wheel too
sharply or abruptly.
•
It often may be less risky to strike small objects, such as highway
reflectors, with minor damage to your vehicle rather than attempt a
sudden return to the pavement which could cause the vehicle to slide
sideways out of control or rollover. Remember, your safety and the
safety of others should be your primary concern.
196
All-Wheel Drive (If Equipped)
2014 MKT
(mkt)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, December 2013
USA
(fus)
