Page 3: Table Of Contents
Table of Contents Introductory Information ...1 Safety Restraints...11 Starting Your Aspire ...41 Warning Lights and Gauges ...55 Instrument Panel Controls...67 Steering Column Controls ...81 Features...91 Electronic Sound Systems...107 Driving Your Aspire ...119 Roadside Emergencies ...137 Customer Assistance...153 Reporting Safety Defects...160 Accessories ...165 Servicing Your Aspire...173 Quick Index...247...
Page 4: Introductory Information
Introductory Information Ford’s Commitment to You At Ford Motor Company, excellence is the continuous commitment to achieve the best result possible. It is dedication to learning what you want, determination to develop the right concept, and execution of that concept with care, precision, and attention to detail.
Page 5 This guide describes equipment and gives specifications for equipment that was in effect when this guide was approved for printing. Ford may discontinue models or change specifications or design without any notice and without incurring obligation.
Page 6 Canadian Owners — French Version French Owner Guides can be obtained from your dealer or by writing to Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited, Service Publications, P.O. Box 1580, Station B, Mississauga, Ontario L4Y 4G3.
Page 7 If you lose your Warranty Information Booklet, you can get a new one free of charge. Contact any Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer, or refer to the addresses and phone numbers on the first page of this owner guide.
Page 8 Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the same as the warranty number that appears on your owner card. You should include this number any time you write to Ford Motor Company about your vehicle. The Vehicle Identification Number is attached to...
Page 9 Safety Compliance Certification label location The label contains the name of the manufacturer, the month and year of manufacture, the certification statement and the Vehicle Identification Number. The label also contains Gross Vehicle Weight Rating and Gross Axle Weight Ratings, wheel and tire data and information codes for additional vehicle data.
Page 10 The break-in period for new brake linings lasts for 100 miles (160 km) of city driving or 1,000 miles (1,600 km) of highway driving. Use only the type of engine oil that Ford recommends. See Engine oil recommendations in the Index. Do not use special “break-in”...
Page 11 Ford, however, believes that continual improvement in customer satisfaction is a high priority. For this reason, Ford has authorized its dealers to repair, at no charge to the owner, the surfaces of new vehicles damaged by...
Page 12 Cleaning Chrome and Aluminum Parts Wash chrome and aluminum parts with a mild detergent. Do not use steel wool, abrasive cleaners, fuel or strong detergents. Cleaning Plastic Parts Some of your vehicle’s exterior trim parts are plastic. Clean with a tar and road oil remover if necessary.
Page 13: Safety Restraints
Safety Restraints Important Safety Belt Information The use of safety belts helps to restrain you and your passengers in case of a collision. In most states and in Canada the law requires their use. Safety belts provide best restraint when: the seatback is upright the occupant is sitting upright (not slouched) the lap belt is snug and low on the hips...
Page 14 RWARNING Never wear the shoulder belt under the arm. Never swing it around the neck over the inside shoulder. Never use a single belt for more than one person or across more than one seating position. Each seating position in your vehicle has a specific safety belt assembly which is made up of one buckle and one tongue that are designed to be used as a pair.
Page 15: Combination Lap And Shoulder Belts
Combination Lap and Shoulder Belts While your vehicle is in motion, the combination lap and shoulder belt adjusts to your movement. However, if you brake hard, turn hard, or if your vehicle receives an impact of 5 mph (8 km/h) or more, the lap/shoulder belt locks and helps reduce your forward movement.
Page 16 NOTE: Be sure to read and understand Important Safety Belt Information at the beginning of this chapter. Unfastening the combination lap/shoulder belts — front and rear outboard seating positions While the belt retracts, guide the tongue to its original position to prevent it from striking you or the vehicle.
Page 17 Automatic locking mode In this operating mode, the shoulder belt retractor will be automatically locked and will remain locked when the combination lap/shoulder safety belt is buckled, and does not allow the occupant freedom of movement. This mode provides the following: A tight lap/shoulder belt on the occupant.
Page 18: Safety Belt Maintenance
(slide bar) (if equipped), child safety seat tether bracket assemblies (if equipped), and attaching hardware, should be inspected after any collision. Ford recommends that all safety belt assemblies used in vehicles involved in a collision be replaced. However, if the collision...
Page 19 Cleaning the Safety Belts Clean the safety belts with any mild soap solution that is recommended for cleaning upholstery or carpets. Do not bleach or dye the belt webbing because this may weaken it. Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) The driver and right front passenger air bags are Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS), provided at these seating positions in addition to the...
Page 20 There are four very important reasons to use safety belts even with an air bag system. Use your safety belts to: help keep you in the proper position (away from the air bag) when it inflates reduce the risk of harm in rollover, side or rear impact collisions, because an air bag is not designed to inflate in such situations reduce the risk of harm in frontal collisions...
Page 21 In rear-facing infant seats, the infant’s head is closer to the air bag. The force of the rapidly inflating air bag could push the top of the rear-facing seat against the vehicle seatback or center armrests (if so equipped), or center console (if so equipped).
Page 22 For further information about the proper mounting of equipment in the front seat of this vehicle, please refer to Ford’s brochure entitled Some Important Information About Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System which can be obtained by calling Helm Inc. at 1-800-782-4356.
Page 23 The driver air bag is in the center of the steering wheel. The front passenger seat air bag is located in the center section of the instrument panel ledge above the glove compartment. Both air bags are designed to stay out of sight until they are activated.
Page 24 some frontal collisions at speeds above 28 mph (45 km/h) will not inflate the air bag. When the sensors activate the system, the air bags inflate rapidly, filling with non-toxic nitrogen gas in a fraction of a second. Immediately after inflation, the air bags deflate by releasing the nitrogen gas through vent holes.
Page 25 Inflated passenger air bag RWARNING If the air bag is inflated, THE AIR BAG WILL NOT FUNCTION AGAIN AND MUST BE REPLACED IMMEDIATELY. If the air bag is not replaced, the unrepaired area will increase the risk of injury in a collision.
Page 26 If any of these things happen, have the air bag system serviced at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer immediately. Unless serviced, the air bag Supplemental Restraint System may not function properly in the event of a collision.
Page 27 Safety Restraints for Children In the U.S. and Canada, you are required by law to use safety restraints for children. If small children ride in your vehicle — this generally includes children who are four years old or younger and who weigh 40 pounds (18 kg) or less —...
Page 28 Always follow the safety seat manufacturer’s instructions when installing and using the safety seat. Ford recommends the use of a child safety seat having a top tether strap. Install the child safety seat in a seating position which is capable of providing a tether anchorage.
Page 29 When installing a child safety seat, be sure to use the correct safety belt buckle for that seating position, and make sure the tongue is securely fastened in the buckle. Your vehicle is equipped with a right front passenger air bag. Air bags deploy with great force, faster than the blink of an eye.
Page 30 RWARNING If you do not properly secure the safety seat, the child occupying the seat may be injured during a collision or sudden stop. An unsecured safety seat could also injure other passengers. RWARNING Carefully follow all of the manufacturer’s instructions included with the safety seat you put in your vehicle.
Page 31 Safety belt buckle placement for child seats Using the Dual Locking Mode Retractor When Installing a Child Safety Seat Your vehicle is equipped with a dual locking mode retractor on the shoulder belt portoin of the front passenger seat and both rear seats. The automatic locking mode must be used when installing a child seat or infant carrier in the front passenger seat or rear seats.
Page 32 RWARNING Carefully follow all of the manufacturer’s instructions included with the safety seat you put in your vehicle. If you do not install and use the safety seat properly, the child may be injured in a sudden stop or collision. If you choose to install a child safety seat in the front seat, move the seat as far back as possible.
Page 33 3. While holding the shoulder and lap belt portions together, route the tongue through the child seat according to the child seat manufacturer’s instructions. See Figure 2. Be sure the belt webbing is not twisted, and insert the tongue into the buckle. See Figure 3.
Page 34 Buckling the belt 4. Grasp the shoulder portion of the belt and pull downward until all of the belt is extracted and a click is heard. At this time, the retractor is in the automatic locking mode (child seat restraint mode). See Figure 4.
Page 35 Setting the retractor to automatic locking mode 5. Allow the belt to retract. Pull up on the shoulder webbing. A clicking sound will be heard as the belt retracts. This indicates the retractor is in the automatic locking mode. Push down on the child seat while you pull up on the belt to remove any slack in the belt.
Page 36 Checking that the seat is secure Removing slack from the belt...
Page 37 Removing slack from the belt 6. Before placing the child in the child seat, forcibly tilt the seat from side to side, and tug it forward to make sure that the seat is securely held in place. See Figure 7. 7.
Page 38 Checking that retractor is in automatic locking mode 8. Check to make sure that the child seat is properly secured prior to each use. If the retractor is not locked, repeat steps 4 through 7. NOTE: To remove the retractor from the automatic lock mode, allow the seat belt to retract fully to its stowed position and the retractor will automatically switch back to the...
Page 39 Attaching Safety Seats With Tether Straps Some manufacturers make safety seats that include a tether strap that goes over the back of the vehicle seat and attaches to an anchoring point. Other manufacturers offer the tether strap as an accessory. Contact the manufacturer of your child safety seat for information about ordering a tether strap.
Page 40 Tether Anchorage Hardware All vehicles built for sale in Canada include a tether anchor hardware kit for use with Canadian child safety seats. Your vehicle has two tether attachment locations in the luggage compartment. To access the tether attachment locations, you must pry off the caps. Be sure to follow the child safety seat manufacturer’s instructions.
Page 41 Install the hardware for anchoring the tether following the instructions in the tether anchorage hardware kit. When attaching the anchor bracket to the anchor, position the anchor bracket straight up. Safety Belts for Children Children who are too large for child safety seats should always wear safety belts.
Page 42 To improve the fit of lap and shoulder belts on children who have outgrown child safety seats, Ford recommends use of a belt-positioning booster seat that is labelled as conforming to all Federal motor vehicle safety standards. Belt-positioning booster seats raise the child and...
Page 43: Starting Your Aspire
Starting Your Aspire Ignition Understanding the Positions of the Ignition The ignition has four positions. They are: LOCK, ACC, ON, and START. Ignition lock cylinder (manual transaxle) Ignition lock cylinder (automatic transaxle)
Page 44 LOCK locks the steering wheel. It also locks the gearshift lever in P (Park) (automatic transaxle). LOCK is the only position that allows you to remove the key. The LOCK feature helps to protect your vehicle from theft. If your key is stuck in the LOCK position and will not turn, move your steering wheel left or right until the key turns freely.
Page 45 Shift-lock System For your safety, the optional automatic transaxle has a shift-lock system, which prevents shifting the transaxle out of the P (Park) position without depressing the brake pedal when the ignition key is in the ON position. To shift the transaxle out of the P (Park) position: 1.
Page 46 Emergency Override System Your vehicle has a cap covering the override mechanism for the shift-lock feature. If you have to use the override procedure to move the gearshift lever out of the P (Park) position, follow these instructions: 1. Remove the shift-lock override cap with a 1“ or longer screwdriver.
Page 47 3. Push and hold the thumb button. 4. Move the gearshift lever. If you need to shift out of P (Park) by using the alternate procedure described above, it is possible that a fuse has blown and that your brakelamps may also not be functional. Please refer to the chapter titled Servicing Your Aspire in this Owner Guide for instructions on checking and replacing fuses.
Page 48 RWARNING Do not leave children, unreliable adults, or pets alone in your vehicle. They could accidentally injure themselves or others through inadvertent operation of the vehicle. Further, on hot, sunny days, temperatures in a closed vehicle could quickly become high enough to cause severe and possibly fatal injuries to people as well as animals.
Page 49: Starting Your Vehicle
Starting Your Vehicle Preparing to Start Your Vehicle RWARNING Do not start your vehicle in a closed garage or other enclosed area. Never sit in a stopped vehicle for more than a short period of time with the engine running. Exhaust fumes are toxic.
Page 50 To test the brake warning light, release the parking brake and turn the ignition key to the START position. The brake warning light should illuminate until the key is released. See the Warning Lights and Gauges chapter for additional information. After starting the engine, check all the warning lights to make sure that they are off.
Page 51 For a cold engine: At temperatures 10˚F (-12˚C) and below: If the engine does not start in fifteen (15) seconds on the first try, turn the key to OFF, wait approximately ten (10) seconds so you do not flood the engine, then try again. At temperatures above 10˚F (-12˚C): If the engine does not start in five (5) seconds on the first try, turn the key to OFF, wait...
Page 52 3. Turn the ignition key to the START position. 4. Release the ignition key when the engine starts. 5. Release the accelerator gradually as the engine speeds up. Then drive away in the normal manner. If the engine still does not start, the fuel pump shut-off switch may have been triggered.
Page 53 To turn the heater on, simply plug it into a grounded 110-volt outlet. Ford recommends that you use a 110-volt circuit that is protected by a ground fault circuit interrupter.
Page 54 Once the shut-off switch is triggered, you must reset the switch by hand before you can start your vehicle. The reset switch on your vehicle is located in a small compartment on the left side of the luggage compartment. The location of the fuel pump shut-off switch (U.S. vehicle shown —...
Page 55 If your engine cranks but does not start after a collision or major jolt: 1. Turn the key in the ignition to the LOCK position. 2. Check under the vehicle for leaking fuel. 3. If you do not see or smell fuel, remove the door covering the fuel pump shut-off switch compartment by pressing the tab toward the rear seat.
Page 56 RWARNING If you smell exhaust fumes inside your vehicle, have your dealer inspect your vehicle immediately. Do not drive if you smell exhaust fumes. Have the exhaust and body ventilation systems checked whenever: your vehicle is raised for service the sound of the exhaust system changes your vehicle has been damaged in a collision Improve your ventilation by keeping all air inlet vents clear of snow, leaves, and other debris.
Page 57: Warning Lights And Gauges
Warning Lights and Gauges The following lights and gauges are on the instrument cluster. All of the warning lights and gauges alert you to possible problems with your vehicle. The following section details what each of these indicators means. In your vehicle, the warning lights and gauges are grouped together on the instrument panel.
Page 60 Indicator Lights and Chimes Safety Belt Warning Light and Chime Safety belt light This warning light and chime remind you to fasten your safety belt under the following conditions: If the safety belt is not buckled when the ignition is turned to the ON position, the chime will turn on for four (4) to eight (8) seconds and the light will come on for at least 60 seconds.
Page 61 Brake System Warning Light Brake system and parking brake light This light comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition key to START or ON. It normally goes off shortly after the engine starts and after you release the parking brake. However, it may stay on for up to 60 seconds.
Page 62 RWARNING The BRAKE light indicates that the brakes may not be working properly. Have the brakes checked immediately. Charging System Light This light, shown as a battery symbol on your cluster, indicates that your battery is not being charged and that you need to have the electrical system checked.
Page 63 Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light This light indicates low oil pressure, not low oil level. However, if the engine’s oil level is low, it could affect the oil pressure. This light comes on every time the ignition key is turned to ON or START, but it normally turns off when the engine starts.
Page 64 High Beam Light This light comes on when the headlamps are turned to high beam or when you flash the lights. High beam light Check Engine Warning Light This light comes on when the electronic engine control system is not working properly. This is the computer system that controls the operating conditions of the engine.
Page 65 If the light turns on and off briefly while you are driving, it means that the condition is no longer present. Air Bag Readiness Light This light illuminates for six seconds when the ignition is turned to the ON position. If the light fails to illuminate, continues to flash, remains on, or if a series of five beeps is heard, have the system serviced as soon as possible.
Page 66 Anti-lock Brake System Warning Light (If equipped) When the ignition switch is turned to the ON position, the anti-lock brake system warning light comes on. When the engine is started, the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) control unit determines if all components of the system are operating correctly.
Page 67 NOTE: If your vehicle must be jump-started because of a low battery, the Anti-Lock Brake System warning light could remain on. This is due to low battery voltage and does not indicate a malfunction in the system. Under these circumstances, you should drive your vehicle only after the battery has had time to charge and the light has gone out.
Page 68 If, under any circumstances, the pointer moves above the NORMAL band, the engine coolant is overheating and continued operation may cause engine damage. If your engine coolant overheats: 1. Pull off the road as soon as safely possible. 2. Turn off the engine. 3.
Page 69: Instrument Panel Controls
Instrument Panel Controls The main controls for the climate control system, clock, and radio are on the instrument panel.
Page 71 The Climate Control Systems Heating Only System (Without Air Conditioning) Function selector The heater controls in your car use levers to control air direction and temperature. Fan speed is controlled by a separate knob in the control panel. The function selector lever lets you control the direction of airflow.
Page 72 Function selector lever V The position furthest to the right is for defrosting the windows only. Air will be directed out the defroster vents at the base of the windshield and side window defogger vents. T The second position from the right (Mix) lets you direct air through the defrosters and through the floor outlets.
Page 73 left), window fogging can occur. Use the recirculate position only to improve air conditioning performance when fresh air cooling is inadequate, or for short periods to try to keep out odors from the outside. NOTE: Do not use the recirculate position when window fogging occurs.
Page 74 Turning On the Heat 1. Move the temperature control lever all the way into the red area. 2. Move the function selector lever to direct air to the floor R. 3. Leave the air door control lever in the fresh air position N or the windows may fog up in cold weather.
Page 75 Ventilating Your Vehicle With Outside Air On mild days, you may want to ventilate your vehicle with outside air. To open the vents: 1. Move the function selector lever to the Q (panel) position. 2. Move the air door control lever to the N (fresh air) position.
Page 76 Air Conditioning System (If equipped) Air distribution is controlled the same way as in the heater system described above. The air conditioner switch is located on the climate control panel. To turn on the air conditioner, push the A/C button. An indicator light will come on.
Page 77 NORM A/C When maximum air conditioning is not needed, using outside air instead of recirculated air can be quieter, but it is less efficient. To cool your car with outside air: 1. Move the function selector lever to the Q (panel) position.
Page 78 Engine Idle Speed Control System Genuine Ford air conditioning (either factory-installed or dealer-installed) has an engine idle speed control system that compensates for engine speed loss that may occur when the air conditioning compressor is running.
Page 79 Rear Window Defroster (If equipped) Rear window defroster switch The defroster for the rear window clears frost, fog, or thin ice from both the inside and outside of the rear window. To operate the defroster, push the V (defroster) switch on the instrument panel to the right of the steering wheel.
Page 80: Interior Lights
Interior Lights Lighting Up the Interior and Instrument Panel With the parking lamps or headlamps on, the brightness of the instrument panel lighting can be adjusted. To brighten or dim the instrument panel lighting, rotate the dimmer control thumbwheel as desired. Dimmer control thumbwheel The dimmer control thumbwheel is located to the right of the steering wheel on the instrument...
Page 81 Interior courtesy lamp Do not leave the dome light on for long periods of time when the engine is not running, or the battery may discharge. Radio For information about the radio in your vehicle, refer to the Audio Systems Chapter in this owner guide.
Page 82 Audio Systems Chapter in this owner guide. Cleaning the instrument panel lens Clean the instrument panel lens with a soft cloth and a glass cleaner, such as Ford Ultra-Clear Spray Glass Cleaner, or equivalent. Do not use paper towel or an abrasive cleaner to clean the...
Page 83: Steering Column Controls
Steering Column Controls The controls on the steering column and wheel are designed to give you easy access to the controls while you are driving. The Turn Signal Lever You can use the turn signal lever on the left side of the steering column to: operate the headlamps and parking lamps operate the turn signals and cornering lamps...
Page 84 Headlamp and parking lamp control Headlamps On Chime This chime will sound when a door is opened while the headlamps or parking lamps are on. Cleaning the Exterior Lamps Do not use dry paper towel, chemical solvents or abrasive cleaner to clean the lamps, as they may cause scratches or crack the lights.
Page 85 RWARNING The Daytime Running Light (DRL) system will not illuminate the tail lamps and parking lamps. Turn on your headlamps at dusk. Failure to do so may result in a collision. High Beams and Flashing the Lamps To turn on the high beams, turn the headlamp control knob to the headlamp ON position and push the turn signal lever away from you until it latches.
Page 86 Hazard Flasher To alert other drivers to hazardous situations, press the hazard flasher switch on the top of the steering column. All the turn signals will flash on and off at the same time. The flashers will also operate while the brake pedal is applied. To turn the flashers off, press the switch again.
Page 87: Windshield Wipers And Washer
Turn signal Windshield Wipers and Washer To operate the windshield wipers and washers, make sure your ignition key is turned to the ON position. The windshield wipers can be operated by moving the control lever. The standard wipers have two speeds and the optional wipers have three speeds.
Page 88 Windshield wiper control lever ONE-TOUCH WIPER SWITCH (If equipped) — For one wiping cycle, push the lever away from you and release it with the lever in the OFF position. The ignition switch must be in the ON position for this operation. One-touch wiper switch Windshield Washer To clean the windshield, turn the wiper switch...
Page 89 See Servicing Your Aspire later in the owner guide. If there is fluid in the reservoir, consult your nearest authorized Ford dealer. Do not try to clean the windshield when the washer fluid container is empty or activate the washers at any time for more than 15 seconds continuously.
Page 90 Rear Windshield Wipers (If equipped) The rear window wiper and washer can be activated by turning the knob at the end of the wiper/washer lever. To turn the rear wiper on, turn the knob up to the ON position. To wash the rear window, turn the knob up to the c position.
Page 91 Horn To sound the horn, push the horn button on either side of the steering wheel. Check the horn regularly to be sure it operates properly. Using the horn...
Page 92: Features
Features Your vehicle has a variety of features designed for your comfort, convenience and safety. Read this chapter to find out about standard and optional features. Doors Locking the doors Either front door can be locked or unlocked with the key. Using the key to lock or unlock the front door Once the door is unlocked, you may open it by pulling the door handle upward.
Page 93 Exterior door lock button and door handle To lock any door from the inside, press the lock button down. To unlock, pull the lock button up. To open the door from the inside, pull the lock button up and pull the door handle. Inside door locks and door handle...
Page 94 Childproof Locks for the Rear Doors In addition to standard locks, your vehicle has childproof locks for the rear doors. If you set these locks, the rear doors cannot be opened from the inside of the vehicle. The doors can still be opened from the outside when the lock knobs are raised.
Page 95 Windows Operating the Windows The side windows on your vehicle can be raised or lowered manually by turning the hand crank located on each door. NOTE: If you notice buffeting or pulsation (wind shock) with either side window open, you should open the opposite window slightly to reduce the condition.
Page 96 Adjusting the Seats In the front seats, you can move the whole seat forward or backward or tilt the back of the seat forward or backward. To move the seat forward or backward: 1. Make sure nothing is placed under the front seats.
Page 97 Seatback Recline To recline the seatback: 1. Find the seatback recline lever located on the outside of the seat, toward the rear. 2. Lean forward slightly and lift up on the lever. 3. Lean back on the seat and adjust the back of the seat to the position you desire.
Page 98 RWARNING A seatback which is folded forward even a small degree may not lock properly in the event of a sudden stop or collision. Using the Folding Rear Seat (If equipped) Your vehicle may be equipped with a full-folding or split-folding rear seat. In either case, you can fold down the seatback (or seatbacks) to provide extra cargo space.
Page 99 To raise the rear seatback: 1. Push the seatback upward until it locks in place. 2. Make sure the seatback is firmly locked by pushing forward and backward on it. Folding down the full-folding rear seatback Folding down the split-folding rear seatback...
Page 100 Fold-up rear seat cushion (if equipped) If your vehicle is equipped with the fold-up rear seat cushion, the rear seat cushion can also be raised after you fold down the seatback(s) to provide even more cargo space. After you pull up the release knobs and fold the seatback(s) forward, lift up the entire seat and push it forward.
Page 101 RWARNING Do not pile cargo higher than the seatbacks to avoid injuring people in a collision or sudden stop. RWARNING Do not remove the floor carpet in your vehicle. Emission controls cause high exhaust temperatures under the floor. NOTE: When returning the folding seats to the upright position, remember to return rear shoulder belts to their proper position.
Page 102 Mirrors Rearview Mirror You can adjust your rearview mirror in any direction. The special swivel bracket lets you move the mirror up or down and from side to side. You can tilt the mirror from day to night position to reduce the glare from the headlamps of vehicles behind you.
Page 103: Sun Visors
Manual side view mirror Some models come with a convex side view mirror on the right-hand side. This mirror gives you a wider view of the lanes on your right and behind you. RWARNING The side view mirror on the right makes objects appear smaller and farther away than they actually are.
Page 104: Storage Compartments
Cupholders Your vehicle has cupholders located just above the ashtray in the center of the instrument panel. Cupholders NOTE: Do not place heavy objects in the cupholders. Storage Compartments Your vehicle may have several small storage compartments: two map pockets on the door panels (if equipped) a glove compartment (non-locking) a storage bin in the center console...
Page 105 Hatchback Opening and Closing the Hatchback 1. Put the key into the lock on the hatchback lid. Unlocking the hatchback lid with the key 2. Turn the key to the right until a click is audible and then pull up on the handle (above the license plate) until the hatchback lid opens.
Page 106 Lifting the hatchback lid To prevent premature wear or damage to the hatchback lift cylinders and attaching hardware, the hatchback must be fully closed before you drive your vehicle. RWARNING If you drive with the hatchback lid open, you will draw dangerous exhaust fumes into your vehicle.
Page 107 Luggage compartment lamp (If equipped) The luggage compartment hatchback has a lamp for your convenience. It has two positions, On or Off. Luggage compartment lamp...
Page 110 Electronic Stereo and Stereo Cassette Radios Using the Controls on Your New Radio How to turn the radio on and adjust the volume Press the “POWER” button to turn the radio on. Press it again to turn it off. Press the right (+) side of the “VOLUME” button to increase the volume.
Page 111 How to tune radio stations (Stereo Cassette Radio) There are four ways for you to tune in to a particular station. You can manually locate the station by using Automatic Music Search (“AMS”), “SEEK” the station, “SCAN” to the station or select the station by using the memory buttons, which you can set to any desired frequency.
Page 112 Using the “SCAN” function (Stereo Cassette Radio) Press the “SCAN” button to enter the scan mode. The radio will begin scanning up the frequency band, stopping on each listenable station for approximately a five-second sampling. This continues until you press the “SCAN”...
Page 113 Adjusting the tone balance and speaker output of your radio Increasing or decreasing bass response Push the “AUDIO” button repeatedly until the display reads “BASS.” Push the right (+) side of the “VOLUME” button to increase bass (more “lows”), and push the left ( ) side to decrease bass (less “lows”).
Page 114 NOTE: Illuminated bars show relative levels of bass and treble and positions of speaker balance and fader functions after adjustments are made, then revert to volume level set. Using the Controls of Your Cassette Tape Player How to insert a tape Insert a cassette (with the open edge to the right) firmly into the tape door opening, making sure the cassette is completely in and “seated.”...
Page 115 In order to keep your cassette tape player performing the way it was meant to, read and follow these simple precautions: Using a Ford Cassette Cleaning Cartridge to clean the tape player head after 10-12 hours of play will help maintain the best playback sound and proper tape operation.
Page 116 Protect cassettes from exposure to direct sunlight, high humidity and extreme heat or cold. If they are exposed to extreme conditions, allow them to reach a moderate temperature before playing. If a tape is loose inside the cassette, tighten it before playing by putting your finger or a pencil into one of the holes and turning the hub until the tape is tight.
Page 117 Common Radio Reception Conditions Several conditions prevent FM reception from being completely clear and noise-free, such as the following: 1. Distance/Strength The strength of the FM signal is directly related to the distance the signal must travel. The listenable range of an average FM signal is approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers).
Page 118 To minimize these conditions, a stereo/mono blend circuit has been incorporated into this system. This feature automatically switches a weak stereo signal to a clearer monaural signal, which improves the quality of reception. Several sources of static are normal conditions on AM frequencies.
Page 119 Ask your dealer for a copy of this limited warranty. Service At Ford Electronics, we stand behind our audio systems with a comprehensive service and repair program. If anything should go wrong with your Ford audio system, return to your dealer for service.
Page 120: Driving Your Aspire
Driving Your Aspire Procedures for driving your vehicle will vary depending on which type of transaxle your vehicle has. You may be familiar with the term “transmission.” We use transaxle because it is a more accurate term for vehicles that have front-wheel drive.
Page 121 Using a Console-Mounted Gearshift Automatic console-mounted gearshift lever Your automatic transaxle vehicle has a console-mounted shift selector lever. You must step on the brake pedal, start the engine, and then push in the thumb button to move the shift selector lever to the position you choose. RWARNING Hold the brake pedal down while you move the gearshift lever from position to...
Page 122 Once the gearshift is secure in the desired position, release the brake pedal and use the accelerator as necessary. Backing Up With the gearshift in the R (Reverse) position, the vehicle will move backward. You should always come to a complete stop before shifting into or out of R (Reverse).
Page 123 RWARNING Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park). RWARNING Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running. You can tell the gearshift is securely latched when the thumb button has popped out. In this position the gearshift selector lever cannot be moved unless the button is pushed in.
Page 124 Do not drive with your foot resting on the clutch pedal and do not use the clutch to hold your vehicle at a standstill while waiting on a hill. These actions will seriously reduce clutch life. Driving with your foot resting on the clutch may cause the vehicle to jerk sharply when pressing or removing your other foot from the accelerator.
Page 125 Sometimes, you will upshift at higher speeds. For example, you may want to stay in a lower gear to gain more power for passing or for climbing a hill. However, you must stay within the allowable range when you upshift or downshift.
Page 126 Upshifting Most of the time, you should upshift at the following speeds: For better fuel economy, shift at these speeds. Downshifting When you slow down or climb a steep hill, always downshift before the engine starts to lose power. Downshifting reduces the chance of stalling and gives your vehicle better acceleration to increase speed again.
Page 127 Parking To park your vehicle, shift into 1 (First), set the parking brake fully, and turn off the ignition. RWARNING Do not park your vehicle in Neutral, it may move unexpectedly and injure someone. Use 1 (First) gear and set the parking brake fully.
Page 128 When the engine is not running or has stalled, the power assist is interrupted. The reserve brake power is partially depleted each time the brake pedal is applied and released. Do not pump the brake pedal when the power assist has been interrupted, unless it is necessary to maintain steering control on slippery surfaces.
Page 129: Anti-Lock Brake System (Abs)
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) (If equipped) The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) prevents the brakes from locking up. Whenever your wheels start to lock during maximum braking, the system automatically releases and re-applies the front wheel brakes independently and the rear brakes as a set.
Page 130 Anti-lock Brake System each time the vehicle is started or during driving. This is normal. Ford Motor Company has not found any detrimental effects of popular mobile road transmitting equipment installed on vehicles equipped with the Anti-lock Brake System if normal radio installation practices are rigidly followed.
Page 131 Parking brake (handbrake) RWARNING To prevent personal injury, do not release the parking brake while outside the vehicle. RWARNING Always set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park) (automatic transaxle) or in 1 (First) (manual transaxle).
Page 132 The parking brake is not designed to stop a moving vehicle, but you can use the parking brake to stop your vehicle in an emergency if the normal brakes fail. However, since the parking brake applies only the rear brakes, the stopping distance will increase greatly and the handling of your vehicle will be adversely affected.
Page 133 Driving in Bad Weather Slippery roads On some slippery road surfaces, front-wheel drive may provide better acceleration than rear-wheel drive. However, this does not mean that your vehicle can stop any faster or any better than a vehicle with rear-wheel drive. Exercise the same caution while driving on slippery roads with your front-wheel drive vehicle as you would with a rear-wheel drive...
Page 134 If you have an automatic transaxle and your vehicle gets stuck (for example, in mud or snow), you may try to “rock” it out of the spot. Shift, in a steady rhythm, between forward and reverse gears. While in each gear, press lightly on the accelerator and release.
Page 135: Trailer Towing
Driving With a Heavy Load There are limits to the amount of weight your vehicle can carry. The total weight of your vehicle, plus the weight of the passengers and cargo, should never be more than the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Also, the weight that your vehicle carries over the front axle and rear axle should never be more than the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for the respective...
Page 136 Towing a manual transaxle (MTX) equipped vehicle behind another vehicle, such as a Recreational Vehicle (RV), is allowed only if it is towed forward. The parking brake must be released, the gearshift must be in Neutral, the ignition key must be in the ACC position, the battery must be disconnected to eliminate battery drain, and the steering wheel unlocked.
Page 137: Roadside Emergencies
Roadside Emergencies Jump-Starting Your Vehicle Your vehicle’s battery may become discharged (“die”) if you leave the lights or any electrical equipment on after you turn the engine off. If this happens, you may be able to jump-start from a booster battery to start your vehicle. RWARNING The gases around the battery can explode if exposed to flames, sparks, or lit...
Page 138 If the acid touches someone’s skin, eyes, or clothing, immediately flush the area with water for at least 15 minutes. If someone swallows the acid, have him or her drink lots of milk or water first, then Milk of Magnesia, a beaten egg, or vegetable oil.
Page 139 4. Check all battery terminals and remove any excessive corrosion before you attach the jumper cables. 5. Turn on the heater fan in both vehicles. Press the DEFROST button. Turn off all other switches and gauges. Connecting the jumper cables 1.
Page 140 The sequence for connecting the jumper cables Jump-Starting 1. Make sure that the jumper cables are not in the way of moving engine parts, then start the booster vehicle. Run the engine at a moderate speed. 2. Let the discharged battery charge for a few minutes and then start the disabled vehicle.
Page 141: Changing A Tire
Removing jumper cables 1. Always remove the jumper cables in the reverse order. Remove the negative ( ) end of the jumper cable from the metallic surface on the engine or frame of the disabled vehicle. 2. Remove the negative ( ) cable from the booster battery.
Page 142 The Temporary Spare Tire You may have a high pressure temporary spare tire. This spare tire is smaller than a regular tire and is designed for emergency use only. Use it only when you get a flat tire and replace it as soon as you can.
Page 143: Spare Tire Location
Spare Tire Location The spare tire and tools are stored in the rear luggage compartment, under the carpet and floorboard. The location of the temporary spare tire and jacking equipment The tool kit in the spare tire compartment...
Page 144 Preparing to Change the Tire 1. Make sure that your vehicle will not move or roll. If you have an automatic transaxle, put the gearshift in P (Park). If you have a manual transaxle, put the gearshift in 1 (First). Set the parking brake and block the wheel that is diagonally opposite the tire that you are changing.
Page 145 RWARNING If the vehicle slips off the jack, you or someone else could be seriously injured. 2. Get out the spare tire and jack. To remove the tire, turn the hold-down bolt counterclockwise with the wheel lug wrench. To remove the jack, turn the jack hold-down bolt counterclockwise.
Page 146 Tire retaining tool NOTE: Be sure to thread the retaining tool until no threads on the retaining tool are visible. 5. Loosen the wheel lug bolts by turning the handle of the wrench one half turn counterclockwise. Do not remove the wheel lug bolts until you raise the tire off the ground.
Page 147 Removing and Replacing the Tire 1. Find the jack location near the door of the tire that you are changing. Position the jack and turn the handle of the jack clockwise until the wheel is completely off the ground. RWARNING To lessen the risk of personal injury, do not put any part of your body under the vehicle while changing a tire.
Page 148 Positioning spare tire 4. Replace the wheel lug bolts, but do not fully tighten them until you lower the car. If you do, you could force the car off the jack. 5. Remove the retaining tool and replace it with the final lug bolt. Your vehicle is built with metric (12 mm) threads on the wheel hubs and lug bolts.
Page 149: Towing Your Vehicle
6. Lower the vehicle by turning the jack handle counterclockwise. 7. Remove the jack and fully tighten the wheel lug bolts in the order shown in the illustration under Step 1. 8. Put the tire, jack, retaining tool and wrench away.
Page 150 When calling for a tow truck, tell the operator what kind of vehicle you have. A towing manual is available from Ford Motor Company for all authorized tow truck oerators. Have your tow truck driver refer to this manual for the proper hook-up and towing procedures for your vehicle.
Page 151 Towing With the Back Wheels Off the Ground Rear towing...
Page 152 If it is necessary to tow your vehicle from the rear (with the rear wheels off the ground), a dolly must be placed under the front tires to prevent transaxle damage. Do not use your vehicle’s steering column lock to secure the wheels in a straight-ahead position. Always use a steering wheel clamping device designed for towing service.
Page 153: Customer Assistance
Customer Assistance Roadside Assistance Ford Motor Company has set up a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week hotline with trained operators who put you in touch with the help you need if you experience a problem with your vehicle. This complimentary service is provided to you throughout your warranty period of 3 years or 36,000 miles (60,000 km), whichever comes first.
Page 154 1-800-241-FORD (in Canada call 1-800-665-2006). If You Have a Service Problem Ford Motor Company has authorized Ford and Lincoln-Mercury dealerships that can service your vehicle for you. This chapter tells you how to get service or maintenance for your vehicle.
Page 155 If you are away from home when your vehicle needs to be serviced, or if you need more help than the dealer gave you, contact the Ford Customer Assistance Center to find an authorized dealership that may be able to help.
Page 156: The Dispute Settlement Board
What Kind of Cases Does the Board Review? The Board reviews unresolved warranty performance complaints on Ford, Mercury and Lincoln cars and Ford and Mercury Light Trucks under warranty that have not been resolved by a dealer or Ford Motor Company, except those involving:...
Page 157 How Does the Board Work? The Board has four members: three consumer representatives a Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer Consumer candidates for Board membership are recruited and trained by an independent consulting firm. Dealers are chosen because of their business leadership qualities.
Page 158 The decisions of the Board are binding on the dealer and Ford, but customers may have other options available to them under state or federal law. How Do You Contact the Board? Write to the Board at the following address to request a brochure/application.
Page 159 Ford of Canada does not have a Dispute Settlement Board. If you have a problem that cannot be resolved by an agreement among you, Ford of Canada, and the Ford dealer, contact the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP). In many areas of Canada, CAMVAP will help resolve the problem and, if necessary, will arrange for the matter to be arbitrated.
Page 160: Reporting Safety Defects
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Ford Motor Company. If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign.
Page 161 Ford of Canada Customer Assistance Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited If you live in Canada and have any questions or concerns that the dealership cannot answer, contact the Customer Assistance Centre. Please have the following information available when contacting the Customer Assistance Centre:...
Page 162 Mediation/Arbitration Program In those cases where you continue to feel that the efforts by Ford and the dealer to resolve a factory-related vehicle service concern have been unsatisfactory, Ford of Canada participates in an impartial third party mediation/arbitration program administered by the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP).
Page 163 Use of leaded fuel in your vehicle without a proper conversion may damage the effectiveness of your emissions control system and may cause engine knocking or serious engine damage. Ford Motor Company is not responsible for any damage that is caused by use of improper fuel.
Page 164 If you are in other foreign countries, contact the nearest Ford dealership. If the dealership cannot help you, they can direct you to the appropriate Ford affiliate office. If you buy your vehicle in North America and then relocate outside of the U.S. or Canada,...
Page 165: Accessories
Accessories Ford Accessories for Your Vehicle Ford has many fine products available from your dealer to clean your vehicle and protect its finishes. For best results, use the following, or products of equivalent quality: A wide selection of accessories are available through your local authorized dealer.
Page 166 Ford’s rigid engineering and safety specifications. That is why Ford brand accessories are warranted for up to 3 years or 36,000 miles (60,000 km), whichever comes first. See your dealer for complete warranty information and accessory availability. Safety, Comfort, and Convenience...
Page 167 Protection and Appearance NOTE: When adding accessories, equipment, passengers, and luggage to your vehicle, do not exceed the total weight capacity of the vehicle or of the front or rear axle (GVWR, GAWR as shown on the Safety Compliance Certification Label).
Page 168 5 watts or less will not ordinarily affect your vehicle’s operation.) NOTE: Because we have no control over the installation, design, or manufacture of such systems, Ford cannot assume responsibility for any adverse effects or damage that may result if you use this equipment.
Page 172: Servicing Your Aspire
Servicing Your Aspire Service Made Easy Ford has two goals for servicing your vehicle. 1. When we can, we design parts that do not need to be serviced. 2. We want to make servicing your vehicle as easy as possible. To help you:...
Page 173 Use only recommended fuels, lubricants, fluids, and service parts that meet Ford Motor Company specifications. Motorcraft parts are designed and built to provide the best performance in your vehicle. Using these parts for replacement is your assurance that Ford-built quality stays in your vehicle.
Page 174 RWARNING The cooling fan is automatic and may come on at any time. Always disconnect the negative terminal of the battery before working near the fan. If you must work with the engine running, avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in moving parts.
Page 175 Working with the engine on: 1. Set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park) (automatic transaxle) or Neutral (manual transaxle). 2. Block the wheels. This will prevent your vehicle from moving unexpectedly. RWARNING Do not start your engine with the air cleaner removed and do not remove it...
Page 176 Hood release handle, hood latch and prop rod Your Engine Type Your vehicle has a 1.3L (81 CID), fuel injected, overhead cam, four-cylinder engine. The following page shows you a diagram of the engine and where to find items you should regularly service.
Page 178: Filling The Fuel Tank
Cleaning the Engine A clean engine is more efficient because the engine is able to cool properly. A build up of grease and dirt acts as an insulator, keeping the engine warmer than normal. Extreme care must be used if a power washer is used to clean the engine.
Page 179 If you lose the fuel cap, replace it with an authorized Motorcraft or equivalent part. RWARNING If you do not use the proper fuel cap, the pressure in the fuel tank can damage the fuel system or cause it to work improperly in a collision.
Page 180 RWARNING Do not overfill the fuel tank. The pressure in an overfilled tank may cause leakage and lead to fuel spray and fire. Before you fill your vehicle with fuel, extinguish all lit cigarettes, other smoking materials, and any open flames. To fill the tank properly: 1.
Page 181 Octane recommendations Your vehicle is designed to use regular unleaded fuel with an octane rating of 87. At service stations, the octane rating is displayed in a label on the pumps. Typical octane rating label In some parts of the country, “regular” grade fuels are sold with octane ratings of 86 or even less, especially in high altitude areas.
Page 182 protecting the fuel system from vapor lock in very hot weather, which causes the engine to hesitate or stall and makes restarts difficult. minimizing deposits in fuel injectors, combustion chambers, and on intake valves. preventing your fuel system from “gumming up”...
Page 183 Safety Information Relating to Automotive Fuels RWARNING Automotive fuels can cause serious injury or death if misused or mishandled. Turn vehicle off when refueling Do not smoke when refueling. Fuels are extremely flammable. Do not siphon any fuel by mouth. RWARNING Gasoline or gasoline blended with methanol can cause blindness and...
Page 184 beverage. In sensitive individuals, serious personal injury or sickness could result. Consult a physician promptly if you experience an adverse reaction. Running Out of Fuel NOTE: Avoid running out of fuel because this situation may have an adverse effect on modern powertrain components.
Page 185 Comparisons With Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Transport Canada (TC) Fuel Economy Estimates EPA fuel economy figures are obtained from laboratory tests under simulated road conditions and may not reflect the actual conditions you experience or your style of driving. The EPA fuel economy estimate is not a guarantee that you will achieve the fuel economy shown.
Page 186 Engine Oil Recommendations We recommend using Motorcraft oil or an equivalent oil meeting Ford Specification WSS-MZC153-F and displaying the American Petroleum Institute CERTIFICATION MARK on the front of the container. The API Certification Mark Never use: “Non-Detergent” oils Oils labeled API SA, SB, SC, SD, SE, SF or SG...
Page 187 Checking and Adding Engine Oil Since the proper amount of engine oil is important for safe engine operation, check the oil using the dipstick each time you put fuel in your vehicle. Remember the engine must be off, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be parked on level ground.
Page 188 NOTE: The distance between the L (low) and F (full) marks on the dipstick represents 1.0 liter (1.06 U.S. qts and 0.88 Imp. qts). 7. Put the dipstick back in and make sure it is fully seated. It may be necessary to add some oil between oil changes.
Page 189: Engine Coolant
NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive fluids in a responsible manner. Follow your community’s standards for disposing of these types of fluids. Call your local recycling center to find out about recycling automotive fluids. RWARNING Continuous contact with USED motor oil has caused cancer in laboratory mice.
Page 190 If the coolant level is low, add to the reservoir a 50/50 mixture of water and the type of engine coolant that Ford specifies. You may add water by itself only in an emergency, but you should replace it with a 50/50 mixture as soon as possible.
Page 191 RWARNING Follow these steps to minimize risk of personal injury. 1. Before you remove the radiator cap, turn the engine off and let it cool. Even when the engine is cool, be careful when you remove the radiator cap. 2. When the engine is cool, wrap a thick cloth around the cap and turn it slowly counterclockwise to the first stop.
Page 192 Ford Premium Cooling System Fluid is an optimized formula that will protect all metals and rubber elastomers used in Ford engines for four years or 50,000 miles (80,000 km). It is not necessary and not recommended to use supplemental coolant additives in your vehicle.
Page 193 Use Ford Premium Cooling System Fluid E2FZ-19549-AA (in Canada, Motorcraft CXC-8-B) or an equivalent engine coolant that meets Ford Specification ESE-M97B44-A. Leave the engine coolant in all year. Make sure that the coolant will not freeze at the temperature level in which you drive during winter months.
Page 194 Engine coolant refill procedure When the entire engine cooling system is to be drained and refilled, use the following procedure: 1. Remove the radiator cap. 2. With the engine off and cool, add a 50/50 mixture of recommended engine cooling system fluid and water until the radiator is full.
Page 195 Front windshield washer fluid reservoir RWARNING Do not put windshield washer fluid in the container for the engine coolant. Use specially formulated windshield washer fluid rather than plain water, because specially formulated washer fluids contain additives that dissolve road grime. For safety reasons, washer fluids containing an appropriate antifreeze such as methanol should be used in freezing weather (temperatures below 32˚F [0˚C]).
Page 196 (VOC’s) may restrict use of the most common antifreeze, methanol. Washer fluids containing non-methanol antifreeze agents should be used only if they provide cold weather protection without damaging the vehicle’s paint finish, wiper blades, and windshield washer system. Rear window wiper (If equipped) Your Aspire may have a rear wiper/washer system.
Page 197 This is not the same reservoir your front windshield wipers use. Refill this reservoir with the same solution you use for your windshield. Wiper Blades Check the windshield wiper blades at least twice a year. Also check them whenever they seem less effective than usual.
Page 198 3. Attach a new wiper blade to the wiper arm and press it into place until you hear it click. Replacing the wiper blades...
Page 199 Drive at safe speeds. If you do not take these precautions, your tires may fail or go flat. Ford Motor Company recommends obeying posted speed limits. RWARNING Driving too fast for conditions creates the possibility of loss of vehicle control.
Page 200 RWARNING Improperly inflated tires can affect vehicle handling and can fail suddenly, possibly resulting in loss of vehicle control. Tire Inspection and Maintenance Inspect the tire treads, and remove stones, nails, glass or other objects that may be wedged in the tread grooves.
Page 201 Rotating the tires Replacing the Tires We recommend you use all weather tires when you replace your tires. Replace any tires that show wear bands. When your tire shows a wear band, it has only 1/16 inch (2 mm) of tread left. A worn-out tire Because your vehicle’s tires may wear unevenly, you may need to replace them before a wear...
Page 202 RWARNING When replacing full size tires, never mix radial, bias-belted, or bias-type tires. Use only the tire sizes that are listed on the tire pressure decal. Make sure that all tires are the same size, speed rating, and load-carrying capacity. Use only the tire combinations recommended on the decal.
Page 203 U.S. Department of Transportation — Tire quality grades: The U.S. Department of Transportation requires Ford to give you the following information about tire grades exactly as the government has written it. Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course.
Page 204 Temperature A B C The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to...
Page 205 Use chains on the tires only in an emergency or if the law requires them where you live. If you choose to use chains on your vehicle’s tires, be aware of the following: Local regulations may prohibit or restrict the use of tire chains.
Page 206 Cleaning the Wheels Wash the wheels with the same detergent you use to wash your vehicle’s body. Do not use acid-based wheel cleaners, steel wool, abrasives, fuel, or strong detergents. These substances will damage protective coatings. Use tar and road oil remover to remove grease and tar.
Page 207 If the battery needs water quite often, have the charging system checked for a possible malfunction. Help Us Protect Our Environment Ford Motor Company strongly recommends that used lead-acid batteries be returned to an authorized recycling facility for disposal. Battery recycling symbol...
Page 208: Automatic Transaxle Fluid
RWARNING Batteries contain sulfuric acid which burns skin, eyes, and clothing. If the acid touches someone’s skin, eyes, or clothing, immediately flush the area with water for at least 15 minutes. If someone swallows the acid, have him or her drink lots of milk or water first, then Milk of Magnesia, a beaten egg, or vegetable oil.
Page 209 Checking the Automatic Transaxle Fluid With the vehicle on a level surface and the brake pedal fully applied, start the engine and move the gearshift selector through all of the gears. Allow sufficient time for each position to engage. Securely latch the gearshift selector in the P (Park) position.
Page 210 Manual Transaxle Fluid The lubricant level and quality should not deteriorate under normal use. However, you should periodically have your Ford Dealer check the fluid level during regular oil changes. Checking manual transaxle oil level 1. Remove the speedometer cable and driven gear from the transaxle case.
Page 211: Brake Fluid
Checking manual transaxle oil level NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive fluids in a responsible manner. Follow your community’s standards for disposing of these types of fluids. Call your local recycling center to find out about recycling automotive fluids. Brake Fluid Under normal circumstances, your vehicle should not use up brake fluid rapidly.
Page 212 Brake fluid level If the fluid is low, carefully clean and remove the cap from the reservoir. Fill the reservoir to the MAX line with Ford High Performance DOT 3 Brake Fluid C6AZ-19542-AA, C6AZ-19542-BA, or equivalent DOT 3 fluid meeting Ford specification ESA-M6C25-A.
Page 213: Power Steering Fluid
RWARNING Do not let the reservoir for the master cylinder run dry. This may cause the brakes to fail. Power Steering Fluid Check the level of the power steering fluid at least twice a year (i.e., every Spring and Fall). Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid 1.
Page 214 Where to check the power steering fluid 5. If the power steering fluid is low, add fluid in small amounts, continuously checking the level, until you reach the F (Full) line. Do not overfill. If the power steering fluid is low, do not drive your vehicle for a long period of time before adding fluid.
Page 215 The following charts tell you which fuses protect each electrical part of your vehicle. If a fuse blows, all the parts of your car that use the circuit will not work. Once you have determined which fuses to check, follow the procedures under Checking and replacing fuses later in this chapter.
Page 216 Removing fuse block To install the fuse block: 1. Place the fuse block cover back in position and fasten the bolts on both sides. 2. Attach the nuts on both ends of the fuse block. 3. Connect the negative battery cable. Main fuse block...
Page 218 Fuse panel cover Fuse panel in the instrument panel...
Page 220 Checking and Replacing Fuses 1. Find the fuse panel and remove the cover. 2. Find the position of the fuse you want to check. 3. To remove the fuse, use the fuse puller provided (located on the cover of the interior fuse panel).
Page 221 4. Look through the transparent side of the fuse to see if the metal wire inside is separated. If it is, replace the fuse with one of the same amperage only. You can use the amp rating number on the fuse as well as the color to identify the correct replacement.
Page 222 Circuit Breaker The climate control systems require high amperage. If the rated amperage is exceeded, a protective circuit breaker will open. If the circuit is broken by the circuit breaker, turn all heater and air-conditioner switches off and restore the circuit by pushing the reset button located in the interior fuse panel.
Page 223 Lights and Bulb Replacement It is a good idea to check the operation of the following lights frequently: headlamps high mount brakelamp tail lamps brakelamps hazard flasher turn signals side markers license plate lamp fog lamps The alignment of your headlamps should be checked if: oncoming motorists frequently signal you to turn off your vehicle’s high beams when you...
Page 224 Headlamp Bulb The headlamps on your vehicle use replaceable bulbs. When the lamp burns out, simply replace the bulb, rather than the whole lamp. RWARNING Handle a halogen headlamp bulb carefully and keep out of children’s reach. Grasp the bulb only by its plastic base and do not touch the glass.
Page 225 7. Carefully remove the bulb assembly from its socket by gently pulling the assembly rearward without turning. Headlamp bulb assembly location Headlamp bulb assembly removal...
Page 226 High-Mount Brakelamp Bulbs To replace the high-mount brakelamp bulb, refer to the instructions below or take your vehicle to your Ford dealer or a qualified technician. To remove the high-mount brakelamp: 1. Disconnect the negative battery cable. 2. Raise the hatchback.
Page 227 6. Rotate the high-mount lamp socket counterclockwise and remove it from the housing. 7. Carefully remove the bulb by gently pulling it straight from the socket. To install a bulb: 1. Firmly install the replacement bulb into the socket. 2. Place the socket assembly in the high-mount stoplamp housing and turn clockwise to lock into position.
Page 228 Bulb Specifications...
Page 229: Emission Control System
Emission Control System Your vehicle is equipped with a catalytic converter which enables your vehicle to comply with applicable exhaust emission requirements. RWARNING Exhaust leaks may result in the entry of harmful and potentially lethal fumes into the passenger compartment. Under extreme conditions excessive exhaust temperatures could damage the fuel system, the interior floor covering, or...
Page 230 If other than Ford or Motorcraft or Ford authorized remanufactured parts are used for maintenance, replacement, or for the service of components affecting emissions control, the...
Page 231 Never use a metal exhaust collector when you service your vehicle. If the metal collector contacts any of your vehicle’s plastic trim or bumper parts they could melt or deform. Do not drive your vehicle if it does not operate properly.
Page 232 OBD II Drive Cycle The following steps must be run in the order shown. If any steps are interrupted, repeat the preceding step. Any safe driving mode is acceptable between steps. Always drive vehicle in safe manner according to traffic conditions and obey all traffic laws. The engine must be warmed up and at operating temperature before proceeding with the drive modes of the following OBD II Drive...
Page 233 7. Accelerate the vehicle up to between 45 and 60 mph (70-100 km/h). This should take approximately 5 minutes. 8. Drive vehicle and hold the throttle steady at the selected speed between 45 and 60 mph (70-100 km/h) for approximately 5 minutes. 9.
Page 234 However, when refilling or adding is required, it should be with the proper lubricant or fluid meeting Ford technical specifications. See the Maintenance Schedule and Record booklet for instructions on maintaining proper fluid levels.
Page 237: Vehicle Storage
Vehicle Storage Maintenance Tips If you plan on storing your vehicle for an extended period of time (60 days or more), refer to the following maintenance recommendations to ensure your vehicle stays in good operating condition. General Store all vehicles in a dry, ventilated place. Protect from sunlight, if possible.
Page 238 Ford Gas Stabilizer should be added whenever actual or expected storage periods exceed 60 days. Follow the instructions on the label. The vehicle should then be operated at idle speed to circulate the additive throughout the fuel system.
Page 239 Brakes Make sure brakes and parking brake are fully released. Tires Maintain recommended air pressure. Miscellaneous Make sure all linkages, cables, levers and clevis pins under vehicle are covered with grease to prevent rust. Move vehicles at least 25 feet (10 m) every 15 days to lubricate working parts to prevent corrosion.
Page 252: Index
Index ABS warning light (see Anti-lock brake system) ..64 Accessory position on the ignition ..41 Additives, engine oil ..Air bag supplemental restraint system.
Page 253 Backing up ... . . Basic vehicle warranty ... Battery acid, treating emergencies ..charging system warning light ..60 disconnecting .
Page 254 Brakes (continued) servicing ....stopping distances ..when storing your vehicle ..Break-in period .
Page 255 Cleaning your vehicle chrome and aluminum parts ..engine compartment..exterior ....fabric .
Page 256 Customer Assistance Center, Ford (U.S.) ....Customer Assistance Centre, Ford of Canada..Dashboard (see Instrument panel) ..67 Daytime running light system .
Page 257 Electronic stereo radio (see Electronic sound system) ..Emergencies, roadside assistance....battery acid spills ..fuel .
Page 258 ....Exhaust fumes ....53 Extended Service Plan, Ford ..engine fan, avoiding injury ..
Page 259 Fuel (continued) storing your vehicle ..treating emergencies..Fuel cap removing ....replacing .
Page 260 GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) definition ....driving with a heavy load ..Hazard flashers ....84 Headlamps aiming .
Page 261 Instrument panel (continued) location of components ..68 Jack operation ....positioning ....storage .
Page 262 Lights, warning and indicator (continued) engine oil pressure ... 61 hazard warning light ..84 high beam ....62 oil pressure .
Page 263: Roadside Emergencies
Octane rating ....Odometer description ....66 trip odometer ....66 Oil filter .
Page 264 Safe driving tips ... . Safety belts (see Safety restraints) ..11 Safety defects, reporting ..Safety information relating to automotive fuels .
Page 265 Spare tire changing the tire ... finding the spare ... removing the spare tire ..temporary spare .
Page 266 Tires (continued) storing your vehicle..tire grades ....treadwear ....wear bands .
Page 267 Warning chimes (continued) safety belt ....58 Warning lights (see Lights) ..55 Warranties basic ....Canada.
Page 268: Service Station Information - 1.3L Engine
Service Station Information — 1.3L Engine...

This manual is also suitable for:

Aspire

Ford 1996 Aspire Manual

Quick Links

Related Manuals for Ford 1996 Aspire

Summary of Contents for Ford 1996 Aspire

This manual is also suitable for:

Table of Contents