Lincoln Navigator (2005) SUV [10/24] Driving off road

Driving in mud

Be cautious of sudden changes in vehicle speed or direction when you

are driving in mud. Even 4WD and AWD vehicles can lose traction in

slick mud. As when you are driving over sand, apply the accelerator

slowly and avoid spinning your wheels. If the rear end of the vehicle

does slide while cornering, steer in the direction of the slide until you

regain control of the vehicle.

After driving through mud, clean off residue stuck to rotating tires,

wheels and driveshafts. Excess mud stuck on tires, wheels and rotating

driveshafts causes an imbalance that could damage vehicle components.

Driving through water

Before driving through water,

determine the depth. Avoid water

higher than the center of the wheel

or hubcap. Proceed slowly to avoid

splashing; if the ignition system gets

wet, the vehicle may stall.

Once through water, always try the

brakes. Wet brakes do not stop the

vehicle as effectively as dry brakes. You can dry the brakes faster by

driving the vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake

pedal.

Driving in deep snow

4WD and AWD vehicles are unique in that they can be driven in deep

snow that would stop a conventional two-wheel drive vehicle. Shift to a

low gear and maintain steady pressure on the accelerator. This will help

prevent spinning the wheels while maintaining sufficient momentum to

keep from bogging down. Using tire chains will also help.

Never drive with chains on the front tires of 4WD or AWD vehicles

without also putting them on the rear tires. This could cause the rear of

the vehicle to slide and swing around.

Driving on hills

Operating your vehicle off-road on slopes or hills requires safe

off-road driving practices. Read and follow these safe off-road

driving practices to reduce the risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle

rollover, serious injury or death.

Driving Off-Road