Page 208 of 336

The Traction Controlswitch,
located on the center console, has
an indicator light that illuminates
when the system is off. The Traction
Controlsystem will automatically
turn on every time the ignition is
turned off and on. The Traction
Controlsystem should normally be
left on.
If you should become stuck in snow or ice or on a very slippery road
surface, try switching the Traction Controlsystem off. This may allow
excess wheel spin to “dig” the vehicle out and enable a successful
“rocking” maneuver.
If a system fault is detected, the traction control active light will
illuminate, the Traction Controlbutton will not turn the system on or
off and your vehicle should be serviced by an authorized dealer.
STEERING
To prevent damage to the power steering system:
•Never hold the steering wheel at its furthest turning points (until it
stops) for more than a few seconds when the engine is running.
•Do not operate the vehicle with a low power steering pump reservoir
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, check for:
•an improperly inflated tire
•uneven tire wear
•loose or worn suspension components
•loose or worn steering components
•improper steering alignment
A high crown in the road or high crosswinds may also make the steering
seem to wander/pull.
2006 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Driving
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Page 211 of 336
has blown or the vehicle’s brakelamps are not operating properly. Refer
toFuses and relaysin theRoadside Emergencieschapter.
If the fuse is not blown, perform the following procedure:
1. Apply the parking brake, turn the ignition to LOCK, then remove the
key.
2. Open the center console bin.
Using a screwdriver, carefully pry off
the console finish panel surrounding
the shifter mechanism by inserting a
screwdriver into the latch slot as
shown.
3. Remove console finish panel
assembly to expose the inside of the
gearshift.
4. Press and hold the white button
located along side the shifter
housing assembly (as shown in the
illustration). Press the gearshift
lever release on the shifter knob and
move the gearshift lever back to N
(Neutral) (two places rearward from
P [Park]).
5. Start the vehicle and release the
parking brake.
Do not drive your vehicle until you verify that the brakelamps
are working.
2006 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Driving
211
Page 330 of 336

Climate control
(see Air conditioning or
Heating) ...........................43, 46, 49
Clock adjust
6-CD in dash .............................35
AM/FM Stereo ...........................23
AM/FM/CD .................................26
AM/FM/Tape/CD .......................30
Clutch
fluid ..........................................304
operation while driving ..........215
recommended shift speeds ....216
Compass, electronic ..............82, 84
calibration .................................84
set zone adjustment ...........84, 86
Console ........................................65
overhead ..............................65–66
Controls
power seat ...............................113
steering column ........................76
Coolant
checking and adding ..............286
refill capacities ................290, 313
specifications ..................316, 319
Cruise control
(see Speed control) ....................74
Customer Assistance ................234
Ford Extended Service
Plan ..........................................261
Getting assistance outside
the U.S. and Canada ..............262
Getting roadside assistance ...234
Getting the service
you need .................................257
Ordering additional
owner’s literature ...................262
Utilizing the Mediation/
Arbitration Program ...............260D
Daytime running lamps
(see Lamps) ................................54
Dipstick
automatic transmission
fluid ..........................................305
engine oil .................................280
Doors
lubricant specifications ..........316
Driveline universal joint
and slip yoke .............................309
Driving under special
conditions ..................215, 224, 228
sand .........................................226
snow and ice ...........................229
through water .................227, 230
DVD system .................................42
E
Electronic message center .........84
Emergencies, roadside
jump-starting ..........................251
Emergency Flashers .................236
Emission control system ..........300
Engine ........................................319
cleaning ...................................265
coolant .....................................286
fail-safe cooling .......................290
idle speed control ...................284
lubrication
specifications ..................316, 319
refill capacities ........................313
service points ..................276–278
starting after a collision .........237
Engine block heater .................204
Engine oil ..................................280
2006 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Index
330