Ford Escape: Four Wheel Drive (4WD) System (if equipped) - Driving - Ford Escape Owner's ManualFord Escape: Four Wheel Drive (4WD) System (if equipped)

of this type of vehicle, see Preparing to drive your vehicle in WARNING: For important information regarding safe operation of this type of vehicle, see Preparing to drive your vehicle in this chapter.

Your vehicle is equipped with an intelligent 4WD System that continuously monitors vehicle conditions and automatically adjusts the power distribution between the front and rear wheels. It combines transparent all-surface operation with highly capable four-wheel drive.

The 4WD system is always active and requires no driver input. It is capable of handling all road conditions, including street and highway driving as well as off-road and winter driving.

Driving off-road with truck and utility vehicles

4WD vehicles are specially equipped for driving on sand, snow, mud and rough terrain and have operating characteristics that are somewhat different from conventional vehicles, both on and off the road.

Blind spot mirrors
Blind spot mirrors have an integrated convex spotter mirror built into the upper outboard corner of the outside mirrors. They are designed to assist the driver by increasing visibility along the sid ...

How your vehicle differs from other vehicles
Truck and utility vehicles can differ from some other vehicles. Your vehicle may be higher to allow it to travel over rough terrain without getting hung up or damaging underbody components. The d ...

See also:

Compass calibration
1. For optimum calibration, switch off all nonessential electrical accessories (rear window defogger, heater/air conditioning system, spotlight, etc.) and ensure all doors are shut. 2. Drive ...

Engine oil and filter
1. Oil filler cap 2. Oil drain plug 3. Oil filter 1. Place a large drain pan under the drain plug. 2. Remove the oil filler cap. 3. Remove the drain plug with a wrench and completely drain ...

Wheel changing safety
Before raising the vehicle or changing a wheel, ensure that you read and comply with the following warnings. Always find a safe place to stop, off the highway and away from traffic. Ensure tha ...