Ford Windstar Owner's Manual
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Summary of Contents for Ford Windstar

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Introduction ..... Instrumentation ....Audio .
  • Page 4: Introduction

    Introduction 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. NOTES and WARNINGS NOTES give you additional information about the subject matter you are referencing.
  • Page 6 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’s Guide.
  • Page 7 Ford Extended Service Plan If you bought your vehicle in the U.S., you can buy a Ford Extended Service Plan for your vehicle. This optional contract provides service protection for a longer period of time than the basic warranty that comes with your vehicle.
  • Page 8 500 miles/800 km after any wheel change or any other time the wheel lug nuts have been loosened. Use only the type of engine oil that Ford recommends. See Engine oil recommendations in the Index. Do not use special “break-in” oils.
  • Page 9: Instrumentation

    Instrumentation The instrument panel (dashboard) on your vehicle is divided into several different sections. The illustrations on the following pages show the major parts of the instrument panel that are described in this chapter. Some items shown may not be on all vehicles.
  • Page 13: Warning And Indicator Lights

    Instrumentation The Mechanical Cluster The following warning lights and gauges are on the Mechanical Cluster. All of these indicators alert you to the status of vehicle systems or possible problems with your vehicle. Some of the lights listed are optional. The following section explains each of the indicators.
  • Page 14 Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light To check the anti-lock brake warning light, turn the ignition key to the ON position. The ABS warning light should glow momentarily. NOTE: If it does not glow at all or stays on for a long time, have your vehicle’s electrical system checked immediately.
  • Page 15 Instrumentation If the driver fastens the safety belt before the ignition is turned to ON, the chime will not sound and the light will not illuminate. If the safety belt is buckled while the light is on and the chime is sounding, both the light and the chime turn off. The safety belt warning light Check Engine Warning Light This light illuminates when the engine’s Emission Control...
  • Page 16 comes on and stays on when you are driving, have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible. This indicates a possible problem with one of the vehicle’s emission control systems. You do not need to have your vehicle towed in. If the light turns on and off at one (1) second intervals while you are driving the vehicle, it means that the engine is misfiring.
  • Page 17 Instrumentation After completing the three consecutive warm up cycles and on the fourth engine start up, the Service Engine Soon Warning Light should turn off. If the light does not go off after the fourth engine re-start, have your vehicle serviced by your dealer or a qualified technician.
  • Page 18 This light indicates the engine’s oil pressure, not the oil level. However, if your engine’s oil level is low, it could affect the oil pressure. The light should come on every time your ignition key is turned to ON or START, and should go out when the engine starts.
  • Page 19 Instrumentation The door ajar warning light Air Bag Readiness Light This light indicates that the Air Bag system is not functional and needs to be serviced. The light illuminates for approximately six seconds when the ignition is turned to the ON position to verify that the indicator bulb is working.
  • Page 20 If one or both of your turn signal indicators does not light up or remains on continuously when you signal a turn, have the turn signaling system serviced as soon as possible. High Beam Light This light comes on when the headlamps are turned to high beam or when the high beams are flashed.
  • Page 21 Instrumentation The low windshield washer indicator light Low Fuel Indicator Light This light comes on when your fuel gauge indicates approximately 1/16 of a tank. The ignition must be turned to ON in order for this light to come on. The low fuel indicator light Gauges Fuel Gauge...
  • Page 22 Fuel gauge — base cluster The engine coolant temperature and fuel gauge...
  • Page 23 Instrumentation Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge This gauge indicates the temperature of the engine coolant, not the coolant level. If the coolant is not at its proper level or mixture, the gauge indication will not be accurate. Engine coolant temperature gauge — base cluster The pointer moves from the C (cold) mark into the NORMAL band as the engine coolant warms up.
  • Page 24 Let the engine cool. DO NOT REMOVE COOLANT SYSTEM FILL CAP UNTIL THE ENGINE IS COOL. Check the coolant level following the instructions on checking and adding coolant to your engine in this Owner Guide. See engine coolant in the index. If you do not follow these instructions, you or others could be injured.
  • Page 25 Instrumentation Tachometer (If equipped) The tachometer will show you the engine’s speed measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). The tachometer may move slightly when the key is placed in the ACC or ON position, with the engine off. This is normal and does not affect the performance of the tachometer when the engine is running.
  • Page 27 Instrumentation Electronic Cluster (If equipped) The Electronic Cluster works only when your ignition is in the ON position. Each time you start your vehicle, the displays go through a self-test by lighting up all segments for about one second and then turning off all segments for about one second, before displaying actual gauge readings.
  • Page 28 This light indicates the engine’s oil pressure, not the oil level. However, if your engine’s oil level is low, it could affect the oil pressure. The light will come on briefly during the display self-test every time you turn your key to the ON position. The light will go off when the key is turned to the START position.
  • Page 29 Instrumentation The washer fluid is only checked when the engine is started or the windshield washers are in operation. The light will not come on if the fluid level becomes low while you are driving unless you turn on the windshield washers. The low windshield washer indicator light Speed Control Indicator A SPEED CONTROL light is displayed in the optional electronic...
  • Page 30 Electronic Gauges Fuel Gauge The fuel gauge displays approximately how much fuel you have in the fuel tank. The number of bars illuminated in the display indicates fuel level. Your ignition must be in the ON position to read the fuel gauge. Read the fuel level at the top bar that is lit. When only one bar on the gauge is lit, the fuel pump symbol on the gauge will flash to warn you of a low fuel level condition.
  • Page 31 Instrumentation The fuel gauge Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge Engine coolant temperature gauge This gauge indicates the temperature of the engine’s coolant, not the coolant level. If the coolant is not at its proper level or mixture, the gauge indication will not be accurate. The gauge is identified by a thermometer symbol, an “H”...
  • Page 32 If your engine overheats: Pull off the road as soon as it is safely possible. Turn off the engine. If you do not stop the engine as soon as safely possible, severe engine damage could result. Let the engine cool. DO NOT REMOVE COOLANT SYSTEM FILL CAP UNTIL THE ENGINE IS COOL.
  • Page 33 Instrumentation limiter is to maintain vehicle speed below a specified limit to ensure safe vehicle operation. The speedometer and odometer Odometer The odometer displays the total number of miles or kilometers your vehicle has been driven. Press the fuel computer E/M (English/Metric) button to switch between miles and kilometers.
  • Page 34 Tachometer The electronic bar graph tachometer in the right center of the cluster displays the approximate engine speed in revolutions per minute (RPM). Each bar on the display represents 200 RPM. The tachometer Fuel Computer The Electronic Cluster Fuel Computer display is located under the tachometer and consists of a menu and a digital display.
  • Page 35 Instrumentation Fuel Computer Buttons The fuel computer functions are controlled by the three buttons located to the right of the electronic cluster: The fuel computer buttons SELECT — The SELECT button lets you choose the function displayed by the fuel computer. Each time you press the SELECT button, the fuel computer points to the next choice on the menu.
  • Page 36 TRIP DISTANCE Your trip distance is the distance you have traveled since the last reset. To display your current trip distance, press the SELECT button until the pointer is at TRIP DISTANCE. To reset the trip distance to zero, press the RESET button while the pointer is at TRIP DISTANCE.
  • Page 37 Instrumentation AVERAGE ECONOMY Your average fuel economy is the average value of your fuel economy since the last reset. To display your average fuel economy, press SELECT until the pointer is at AVERAGE ECONOMY. The fuel computer calculates average fuel economy from the distance traveled and the fuel used (as reported by the Electronic Engine Control module).
  • Page 38 The fuel computer will automatically warn you when your distance to empty is low. When your distance to empty reaches 50 miles (80 km), 25 miles (40 km) and 10 miles (20 km), the fuel computer will automatically select DISTANCE TO EMPTY, flash the number for five seconds, and sound a one second chime.
  • Page 39 Instrumentation Auxiliary Warning Module (If equipped) An additional bank of indicator and warning lights is located above the driver’s side vent, just to the right of the steering wheel. The light(s) located in this module are described and illustrated below. The auxiliary warning module Traction Control Active Light This light comes on when the Traction Control system begins...
  • Page 40 The Traction Control light will stay on for a minimum of four seconds. Traction Control Off Light This light comes on when the Traction Control system is not operating. In some conditions, you may want to turn Traction Control off, such as when rocking your vehicle out of deep snow or mud.
  • Page 41 Instrumentation Anti-Theft Active Indicator Light This indicator is used in the optional Anti-Theft System. See “Anti-Theft System” in the Controls and Features chapter of this Owner Guide. The anti-theft active indicator light Air Suspension Warning Light The air suspension warning light The warning light for the Air Suspension indicates one of two things: The service switch (located in the jack storage area) is in the...
  • Page 43 Compact Disc Radio The Compact Disc Radio combines the Electronic Stereo Radio with the Ford Compact Disc Player. Using the Controls on Your New Radio/CD Player Most of the features of this unit work for both radio and CD operation, depending on which mode the unit is in. Also, some of the buttons control several different functions, so be sure to read all of the operating instructions carefully.
  • Page 44: Electronic Sound Systems

    Electronic Sound Systems How to tune radio stations There are four ways for you to tune in a particular station. You can manually locate the station using the “SCAN/TUNE” button, “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 45 Using the “SCAN/TUNE” button to scan radio stations Pressing the “SCAN/TUNE” button once enters the scan mode (display will indicate “SCN”). Pushing the top a half of the “SEEK” button will begin the scan mode up the frequency band, stopping on each listenable station for approximately five seconds.
  • Page 46 Electronic Sound Systems Using the Automatic Memory Load and Automatic Memory Store features NOTE: If no stations are in memory presets, you can activate the feature by pressing and holding the “AUTO PRESET” button for approximately three seconds. Auto Memory Load sets all memory buttons in AM, FM1 and FM2 sequentially by seeking out the first five strong stations for the respective band and storing them in memory buttons 1-5.
  • Page 47 To deactivate the Auto Memory Store mode and return to the manually-set memory button stations (or those stations set using Auto Memory Load), simply push the “AUTO PRESET” button. Display will show “AUTO” then “OFF.” The next time Auto Memory Store is activated on that band, the radio will store the next set of five strong stations.
  • Page 48 Using the Controls on Your New Compact Disc Player Your new Ford Compact Disc Player is capable of playing 12 cm or 8 cm discs, without an adapter. The player operates when the power is on and a disc is inserted (label side up). Handle the disc by its edge only.
  • Page 49 NOTE: If after you insert a disc, the disc is ejected and “ERROR” begins scrolling in the display, remove the disc and reinsert it right side up (label side up). The digital display on your CD player will either show the track (selection) number or the elapsed time.
  • Page 50 Electronic Sound Systems How to stop and restart the CD player When a disc is loaded, the unit automatically enters the play mode and the play indicator a illuminates. To stop temporarily, press the “PLAY/STOP” button or the “AM/FM” button. The stop indicator X in the display illuminates and operation returns to the radio mode.
  • Page 51 Pressing and holding the top ( a ) or bottom ( b ) of the “SEEK” button will scroll backward and forward respectively through the tracks. Using the “SCAN” function Press the “SCAN/TUNE” button to enter the scan mode. Once in the scan mode, press the top ( a ) or bottom ( b ) half of the “SEEK”...
  • Page 52 How To Take Care of and Clean Your CD Player and Discs To ensure the continued performance of your Ford Compact Disc Player, carefully read the following precautions: Always handle the disc by its edge. Never touch the playing surface.
  • Page 53 CD format. Because of this, a new disc that is free of dust and scratches could be defective and may not play on your Ford Compact Disc Player. If play does not begin after the CD button is pushed: The radio is not on.
  • Page 55 High-Level Audio System Ford’s High-Level Audio System delivers quality performance for maximum listening enjoyment. Using the Controls on Your New Radio How to turn the radio on and off Press the “POWER” button to turn the radio on. Press it again to turn it off.
  • Page 56 Electronic Sound Systems Using the “TUNE” function You can change the frequency up or down one increment at a time (FM changes in increments of 200 kHz; AM changes in increments of 10 kHz) by first pressing the “SCAN/TUNE” button twice (display shows “TUNE”), then —...
  • Page 57 Setting the station MEMORY PRESET buttons Your radio is equipped with 5 station memory buttons. These buttons can be used to select up to 5 preset AM stations and 10 preset FM stations (5 in FM1 and 5 in FM2). Follow the easy steps below to set these buttons to the desired frequencies: Select a band, then select a frequency.
  • Page 58 Electronic Sound Systems frequencies, stopping momentarily on the stations being set into the memory buttons. The radio is now in the “AUTO” mode for the selected band and this display will show “AUTO” each time a preset is activated. NOTE: If there are fewer than five strong stations in the frequency band, the remaining unfilled buttons will store the last strong station detected on the band.
  • Page 59 Adjusting speaker balance Balance control allows you to adjust the sound distribution between the right and left speakers. Push the “AUDIO” button repeatedly until the display reads “BAL.” Push the “+” side of the “VOL” button to shift the sound to the right speakers, and push the “-”...
  • Page 60 Electronic Sound Systems Fast forwarding the tape To fast forward the tape, press the “FF” button. The radio will automatically begin playing until fast forward is manually stopped. At the end of the tape, the direction automatically reverses and plays the other side of the tape. Rewinding the tape To rewind the tape, press the “REW”...
  • Page 61 Using the “SCAN” function with your cassette tape player Press the “SCAN/TUNE” button to enter the scan mode (display indicates “SCN”). Pushing the right a side of the “SEEK” button will begin the forward scan mode on the tape currently playing, stopping on each tape selection for approximately an eight-second sampling.
  • Page 62 In order to keep your cassette tape player performing the way it was meant to, read and follow these simple precautions: Using a Ford or equivalent 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 63 Error 1 — Possible problem cartridge. The cassette tape player will eject the tape. Insert the tape again. If the same error code appears in the display, try a different cartridge. Error 2 — Tape eject or load failure. Your cassette tape player will go into the pause mode.
  • Page 64 Electronic Sound Systems The Ford 10-CD Changer System The Ford 10-CD Changer is mounted in your center floor console and holds 10 CDs, all controlled by using the buttons on your High-Level Audio System. Center Floor Console Loading Instructions Open Compact Disc Changer center floor console unit by sliding door to the right (Figure 1).
  • Page 65 Load discs into disc magazine slots (numbered 1 through 10) one at a time with labeled surfaces upward, starting with bottom slot number 1 (Figure 3). Insert loaded disc magazine into chamber unit with the arrow on top of the disc magazine pointing toward the changer (Figure 4).
  • Page 66 System. How to Operate the Ford 10-CD Changer Using the Controls on the Radio If your vehicle is equipped with the Ford 10-CD Changer System, you can operate it through the controls of your High-Level Audio System. Several of the controls on the radio operate in the same manner...
  • Page 67 If either button is pressed and held, the CD Changer will continue fast-forwarding or reversing through the discs in the disc magazine. During these functions, the display will indicate the disc number. How to change the track being played Press the right ( a ) side of the “SEEK” button to seek forward to the next track of current disc.
  • Page 68: Rear Seat Radio Controls

    Electronic Sound Systems Rear Seat Radio Controls Using the Rear Seat Radio Controls Rear seat radio controls are standard equipment on all models. The rear seat radio controls are located behind the driver on the left hand side of the vehicle. These controls duplicate several radio functions of the radio and allow the use of headphones in the vehicle.
  • Page 69: Audio

    Setting the AM or FM frequency band Push the “BAND” button to change the frequency band. Using the “MEMORY” button Push the “MEMORY” button to access the station you have set into memory button 1 on the face of the radio. Successively pushing this button will access, numerically, all stations set into the Station Memory Preset buttons (1 through 5).
  • Page 72 Electronic Sound Systems 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”...
  • Page 73 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 74 Electronic Sound Systems 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” button a second time.
  • Page 75 Increasing or decreasing treble response Push the “AUDIO” button repeatedly until the display reads “TREB.” Push the right (+) side of the “VOLUME” button to increase the treble (more “highs”), and push the left ( ) side to decrease treble (less “highs”). Speaker features and operation Adjusting speaker balance Balance control allows you to adjust the sound distribution...
  • Page 76 Electronic Sound Systems 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.” How to locate a desired track on the tape NOTE: The tape track number indicated in the display does not necessarily correspond to the tape track or side...
  • Page 77 Fast forwarding the tape (if your display shows arrows) To fast forward the tape, press the fast-wind button with the arrows pointing in the same direction as indicated in the display. For example, if the tape travel arrow in the display is pointing to the left, press the left h button to fast forward the tape.
  • Page 78 In order to keep your cassette tape player performing the way it was meant to, read and follow these simple precautions: Using a Ford or equivalent 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 79 How to set the clock Turn the radio on. Press and hold in the “CLOCK” button. Press the “SEEK” button left ( b ) to advance the hours and right ( a ) to advance the minutes. NOTE: The clock displays 12-hour time with no AM/PM indications.
  • Page 80 Electronic Sound Systems 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 81 At Ford, 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. There is a nationwide network of qualified Ford authorized repair centers to assist you.
  • Page 82: Controls And Features

    Controls and Features The instrument panel (dashboard) on your vehicle is divided into several different sections. Illustrations are provided for the major parts of the instrument panel that are explained in this chapter. Some items shown may not be on all vehicles. The controls for the climate control systems, headlamps, dim switch, rear window defogger, fog lamps, power rear quarter windows, Traction Control, clock/radio and the rear window...
  • Page 83 Instrument Panel Registers There are four registers in the instrument panel. Each of these registers contain a louver assembly which can be manually adjusted to direct airflow UP, DOWN, LEFT and RIGHT. Each register in the instrument panel also has a thumbwheel that allows you to open or close each register.
  • Page 84 Controls and Features Air Conditioning (A/C) Controls — Main (Front) System Only (Manual Air Conditioning) The climate controls — main A/C The Fan Speed Knob controls the volume of air circulated in the vehicle. There are four fan settings: Low, Medium Low, Medium High, and High.
  • Page 85 The air conditioning settings include MAX A/C, A/C and S (Panel/Floor). However, heating capabilities are also provided in these modes. Adjust the Temperature Control Knob as necessary to receive cool (air-conditioned) or warm (heated) air when in these modes. NOTE: The A/C compressor will only operate when outside air temperatures are above approximately 45˚F (7˚C).
  • Page 86 Controls and Features In m (OFF), air supply is shut off from all outlets and all blower motor operation is stopped. Use this setting when driving through an area where outside air is unpleasant or dusty. R WARNING Operating with the Function Selector Control in off or in Max A/C for extended periods of time in cold weather can result in fog buildup on interior glass surfaces.
  • Page 87 In V (DEFROST), most of the air is directed through the defrosters and onto the windshield. A small amount is diverted to the floor. Heater Controls (Heater-Only Vehicles) The fan speed, temperature, and function controls are essentially the same as the A/C controls described previously with the exception that the control assembly has no function settings for MAX A/C and A/C and no A/C compressor operation is provided in any of the function settings.
  • Page 88 Controls and Features Turn the Temperature Control Knob toward the WARM (red) area. Turn the Fan Speed Knob to the speed of your choice. When your vehicle warms up, you may want to set the Fan Speed Knob to a lower speed, or adjust the Temperature Control Knob to a lower setting to maintain a comfortable temperature.
  • Page 89 panel will also include a rear seat climate control knob. To turn on the rear passenger compartment control system, select REAR CTRL, and any fan speed. With the knob set to REAR CTRL, rear seat passengers will have control of rear fan speed on the rear seat climate control panel.
  • Page 90 Controls and Features The auxiliary system is controlled exclusively by the 9-position switch. If the control is turned to the left, cool air will be delivered at the beltline and overhead. If the control is turned to the right, warm air will be delivered to the floor area. The further left or right from the OFF position the control is turned, the higher the fan speed.
  • Page 91 The air conditioner may be used to cool the outside air being drawn into your vehicle, but using recirculated air is more economical and cools your vehicle more quickly. Cooling your vehicle with outside air Cooling your vehicle with air conditioned outside air is quieter but less economical than using recirculated air.
  • Page 92 Controls and Features When stopped in traffic for long periods of time in hot weather, place the automatic transaxle gearshift selector lever in Park (P) or in Neutral (N). This aids in engine cooling and air conditioner efficiency. (If the engine overheats, turn the Function Selector Knob to Q (PANEL) and turn the Temperature Control Knob to WARM.) When your vehicle’s engine is operated at full throttle, the air...
  • Page 93 Rear fan control knob The rear passenger compartment climate control panel has a Fan Speed Knob which controls the speed (Low, Medium Low, Medium High, or High) at which air is discharged from the registers whenever the Rear Control Knob on the front panel climate control panel is in REAR CTRL.
  • Page 94 Controls and Features Liftgate Window Features Rear Window Defogger (If equipped) The defogger for the rear liftgate window clears frost, fog, or thin ice from both the inside and outside of the rear window. The defogger operates with the ignition in the ON position. The control switch is located on the instrument panel to the right of the steering column and below the climate control system.
  • Page 95 NOTE: Operating the rear defogger will also turn on the heated side view mirrors (if equipped). Never use sharp instruments or abrasive window cleaners to clean the inside of your rear window. If you do, you may damage the wires that are bonded to the inside of the rear window, and cause damage to the rear window defogger.
  • Page 96: Exterior Lamps

    Controls and Features Do not activate the washer for longer than fifteen seconds continuously. This could damage the washer pump system. Exterior Lamps To turn on the headlamps, parking lamps, marker lamps, tail lamps, license plate lamps and instrument panel lamps, use the headlamp knob, to the left of the instrument cluster.
  • Page 97 Turn the headlamp knob to the second position to turn on the headlamps in addition to the parking lamps, tail lamps, license plate lamps, marker lamps and instrument panel lamps. The headlamp controls Fog Lamps (If equipped) The fog lamp switch is located on the center of the instrument panel.
  • Page 98 Controls and Features The fog lamps act as a supplement to the low beam headlamps under limited visibility conditions such as rain, snow, dust or fog and operate only when the low beam headlamps are on. To maximize fog lamp bulb life, it is recommended that the fog lamp switch be turned off after each use prior to turning off the headlamps.
  • Page 99: Interior Lamps

    R WARNING 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. Interior Lamps Lighting Up the Instrument Panel The instrument panel lights can be turned on by turning the headlamp control knob to either the first or second position.
  • Page 100 Controls and Features Clock Controls on Electronic Radios The electronic radios have a built-in clock. For complete operating instructions, refer to the Electronic Sound Systems chapter of this Owner Guide. Radio Antenna The fixed radio antenna is mounted on the front fender on the passenger’s side of the vehicle.
  • Page 101 NOTE: Do not place heavy objects in the cupholders. The controls on the steering column and wheel are designed to give you easy access to the controls while you are driving. Ignition Understanding the Positions of the Ignition The ignition positions ACCESSORY allows you to operate some of your vehicle’s electrical accessories while the engine is not running.
  • Page 102 Controls and Features START cranks the engine. Release the key once the engine starts so that you don’t damage the starter. The key should return to the ON position when you release it. The START position also allows you to test the brake warning light. Removing the Key From the Ignition LOCK is the only position that allows you to remove the key from the ignition.
  • Page 103: Turn Signal Lever

    Turn Signal Lever You can use the turn signal lever on the left side of the steering column to: operate the turn signals. turn the headlamps to high beam. flash the headlamps. turn the windshield wipers and washer on/off. Turn Signals To turn on the right turn signal, push the turn signal lever up.
  • Page 104 Controls and Features If the turn indicator light in the instrument panel does not illuminate or remains on (does not flash) when you signal a turn, the turn signaling system is malfunctioning. Have this condition corrected as soon as possible, and use the accepted hand signals until the turn signal system is repaired.
  • Page 105: Windshield Wipers And Washer

    Windshield Wipers and Washer Variable Interval Wipers Your vehicle has wipers that operate at varying intervals. For example, you can set the interval so they wipe less often in light rain or more often in heavier rain. The wiper delays range from about 1.5 to 20 seconds.
  • Page 106 Controls and Features Make sure the two front doors are securely closed. Insert the key into the ignition and turn first to the ON position (the gauges on the instrument panel will not illuminate) and then back to the OFF position. Remove the key and within 30 seconds: Press and hold the washer button on the end of the turn signal lever.
  • Page 107: Gearshift Lever

    R WARNING Always warm up the windshield with the defroster before you use the washer fluid. In freezing weather, the washer solution may freeze on the windshield and obscure your vision. For information about refilling the washer fluid or replacing your windshield wiper blades, see Windshield washer fluid and Wipers in the Index.
  • Page 108 Controls and Features OVERDRIVE OFF Lamp This lamp indicates the operating range of the transaxle. This lamp will illuminate when the Overdrive On/Off button is depressed. OVERDRIVE OFF lamp location With the transaxle range selector in the Overdrive j range, the OVERDRIVE OFF lamp will not be illuminated.
  • Page 109: Hazard Flasher Switch

    Horn To sound the horn, press the center of the steering wheel. Check the horn regularly to make sure it operates properly. The horn pad Hazard Flasher Switch The hazard flasher switch is located on top of the steering column. To use the hazard flasher: Push the HAZARD switch;...
  • Page 110 Controls and Features Tilt Steering (If equipped) With the tilt steering option, you can move your steering wheel up or down. Tilt steering release lever location To change the position of the steering column: Make sure your vehicle is stopped. Pull the tilt release lever on the column toward you.
  • Page 111 Be sure the steering wheel is locked in place. It can only be adjusted to specific positions. Do not adjust the steering wheel while the vehicle is in motion. Speed Control (If equipped) The speed of the vehicle cannot be automatically controlled until the vehicle speed is at or above 30 mph (48 km/h).
  • Page 112 Controls and Features The speed control switches on the steering wheel To set the speed control: Find the speed control switches on the steering wheel. Press and release the ON switch. Accelerate to the desired speed above 30 mph (50 km/h) using the accelerator pedal.
  • Page 113 NOTE: On a downhill grade, if your speed increases above your set speed while driving in j (Overdrive) on a downhill grade, you may want to downshift to Third (3) gear to reduce vehicle speed. To do this, push the Overdrive ON/OFF button on the end of the gearshift lever.
  • Page 114 Controls and Features Resetting the Speed Control To reset the speed control to a lower speed, use one of the following procedures: COAST — Press and hold the COAST switch. Release the switch when the vehicle slows down to the desired speed. Lightly tap the brake pedal.
  • Page 115 To Cancel or Turn Off Speed Control The speed control can be cancelled at any time by depressing the brake pedal slightly. After cancelling, you can return to the speed you set by pressing the RESUME switch, or set a new speed by pressing the SET ACCEL or COAST switch.
  • Page 116 Controls and Features This light does not indicate any problems with the speed control system, but is a convenience to tell you when the speed control system is actively maintaining a set speed. Setting the Autolamp Delay System (If equipped) By using the autolamp, you can set the headlamps to: turn on the headlamps automatically at night turn off the headlamps automatically during daylight...
  • Page 117 Move the Autolamp Delay slider knob to the far left position with the vehicle in park and ignition in the RUN position. Then press the mirror DIM and Autolamp ON switches simultaneously. The Autolamp ON LED will flash, indicating it’s into the special mode.
  • Page 118 Controls and Features Front Dome Lamp Front dome lamp, rear cargo and second row reading lamp may be turned on and off using the dimmer switch. The front dome lamp is located overhead between the driver and front passenger seats. The front dome lamp and map lamps Turning on the map lamps (If equipped) Your vehicle may have a map lamp for the passenger and one...
  • Page 119 Second Row Reading Lamp The second row reading lamp may be turned on by using the rocker switch located on the lamp assembly or by using the instrument panel dimmer switch. Second row reading lamp Automatic Dimming Inside Rearview Mirror (If equipped) The automatic non-glare mirror...
  • Page 120 Controls and Features The electronic day/night mirror will change from the normal state to the non-glare state when bright lights (glare) reach the mirror. This mirror functions at night, and has a limited function at dusk or dawn. From the non-glare state, the mirror will return to the normal state after a short delay.
  • Page 121 Illuminated Courtesy Mirror (If equipped) Your vehicle may have illuminated courtesy mirrors on the sun visors. You can turn on the lighted mirrors by lifting the mirror door cover. The illuminated mirror on the sun visor...
  • Page 122 Controls and Features Doors For information on the liftgate refer to the Liftgate section later in this chapter. Sliding Door The sliding door allows rear seat passengers to enter and exit easily. To open the sliding door from inside of the vehicle, pull the handle toward the rear of the vehicle.
  • Page 123 The outside sliding door handle Memory Lock If you lock your doors with the power lock switch or the remote transmitter while the sliding door is open, the door will automatically lock after it is closed. Childproof Lock for the Sliding Door Your vehicle has a childproof lock for the sliding door.
  • Page 124 Controls and Features Childproof lock location To set the childproof lock: Open the sliding door. Find the childproof lock lever below the label. Push the lever to the up position.
  • Page 125 To release the childproof lock: Open the sliding door from the outside. Push the lever to the down position. Power Door Locks (If equipped) The power door lock control switches are located in the panels of the front doors. They control the locks on both front doors, the sliding door and the liftgate.
  • Page 126 Controls and Features The power door lock switch in the cargo area NOTE: If the sliding door is open when all doors are locked with the power door lock switch, the sliding door automatically locks when it is closed. You can manually lock and unlock the doors using the manual door locks to override the power locks.
  • Page 127 R WARNING Do not let children play with the power windows. The power window switches One-Touch-Down Power Window (If equipped) The one-touch-down power window feature allows you to completely open the driver’s window without holding down the window switch. To open the window completely, tap quickly on the lower half of the switch and release it.
  • Page 128 Controls and Features Cancelling and reactivating the one-touch-down feature The one-touch-down power window feature can be cancelled and reactivated at any time using the following procedure: Make sure the two front doors are securely closed. Insert the key into the ignition and turn first to the ON position and then back to the OFF position.
  • Page 129 Manual flip-open quarter window latch location Power Quarter Windows (If equipped) The power rear quarter vent windows operate with the ignition in the ON or ACC positions. The vent windows are controlled by the right and left switches located in the center of the instrument panel, just to the right of the rear defogger.
  • Page 130 Controls and Features The power quarter window switches Mirrors R WARNING Make sure you can see clearly through the rearview mirror at all times. Do not block your vision. If you cannot see through the mirror, it could result in a collision, injuring yourself and others.
  • Page 131 Dual Electric Remote Controlled Mirrors (If equipped) If you have power side view mirrors, you can adjust them in any direction by using the mirror controls on the door panel. The electric mirror controls To adjust the remote controlled side mirrors: Select the right or left mirror by sliding the selector lever towards the right arrow or the left arrow.
  • Page 132 Controls and Features Heated Side View Mirrors (If equipped) The heated side view mirrors are automatically activated whenever you activate the rear defogger. The defogger in your vehicle automatically shuts off after 10 minutes. If additional defogging is necessary, reactivate the rear defogger. Compact Disc and Cassette Storage Console (If equipped) A storage compartment is included below the radio for storage...
  • Page 133 The full console Liftgate Liftgate opening procedure To open the liftgate, insert the door key into the lock and turn it clockwise. You can also unlock the latch (but not release it) with the power door lock system. Reach under the license plate light shield and release the liftgate latch by squeezing the paddle handle rearward.
  • Page 134 Controls and Features Opening the liftgate Make certain that you close the liftgate door before driving your vehicle. Possible damage may occur to the liftgate door lift cylinders and attaching hardware if the liftgate door is not closed prior to driving. R WARNING Make sure that the liftgate door and/or window are closed to prevent exhaust fumes from being drawn into...
  • Page 135 Liftgate closing procedure To make the liftgate swing downward, reach up and pull the lower edge of the liftgate (or the loop handle on the inner trim panel of vehicles with this option) and pull downward. When you have pulled down the liftgate enough so that you can reach the license plate light shield, push the shield down and forward to close the latch and liftgate.
  • Page 136 Controls and Features To remove the cargo net, remove the loops from the four retainers. The rear cargo net...
  • Page 137 Keyless Entry System (If equipped) If you have chosen the keyless entry system option for your vehicle, you can lock or unlock the doors and liftgate without using a key. The keypad is above the outside door handle on the driver’s side. See also Remote Entry System which follows this description.
  • Page 138 Controls and Features Do not push the keypad buttons with a key, ball-point pen, pencil, or any other hard object since they could damage the buttons. Using the Keyless Entry System To operate the Keyless Entry System, you must be familiar with the “personal code”...
  • Page 139 The keyless system registers this second code. To open your vehicle, you can now use either code. The module remembers only one personal code at a time. Entering a second personal code will erase the first and replace it with the new code.
  • Page 140: Battery Saver

    To lock all of the doors at the same time, press the 7/8 and 9/0 buttons at the same time. It is not necessary to first enter the keypad code. This will also arm your Ford anti-theft system. Battery Saver When the ignition switch is turned to OFF, the vehicle will turn off battery voltage to the interior lamps after 45 minutes.
  • Page 141 The system will work with up to four remotes. Your vehicle came with two remotes. Additional remotes can be ordered from your dealer. The remote entry features only operate with the ignition in the OFF position. The remote entry transmitter Unlocking the Doors To unlock the driver’s door, press the UNLOCK control.
  • Page 142 If you notice a significant decrease in operating range, the batteries should be replaced. Replacement batteries can be purchased at most pharmacies, watch stores or at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. NOTE: The operating range of the remote entry system can...
  • Page 143 Replacing the batteries The remote can be snapped apart to replace the batteries by twisting a thin coin between the two halves of the remote. DO NOT TAKE THE FRONT PART OF THE REMOTE APART. When installing the new batteries, be sure to place the positive (+) side down as marked.
  • Page 144 Controls and Features Illuminated Entry System (If equipped) This system will provide illumination of the vehicle’s interior courtesy lamps when either outside front door handle is pulled or when the remote entry system is used to unlock the door or sound the personal alarm.
  • Page 145 The doors may not lock automatically at the correct time if the driver: shifts through gears without pressing the brake shifts through gears quickly after starting the vehicle releases their foot from the brake while someone has stepped out of the vehicle for a moment To deactivate the Autolock system: Enter your permanent five-digit entry code (not the user code you may have set).
  • Page 146 Controls and Features Arming the System Remove the key from the ignition. The hood must be closed to arm the system. Open any door. The alarm indicator light will start flashing to remind you to arm the system. Lock the doors by using the power door lock switch. The alarm indicator light will now glow steadily.
  • Page 147 Disarming an Untriggered Anti-Theft System You can disarm the system by unlocking either front door or the liftgate with your door key. Turn the key all the way to the end of travel or the system will not disarm. You can also disarm the system by unlocking the driver’s door by using the UNLOCK button of the remote entry transmitter or by using the five-digit unlock code on the keyless entry system keypad.
  • Page 148: Seating And Safety Restraints

    Seating and Safety Restraints Seats Adjusting the Seats Adjusting the front seats manually To move the front seats forward or backward: Find the adjustment bar at the lower cushion of the front seat. Pull the bar up to unlatch the seat. Move the seat to the desired position.
  • Page 149 Using the power seats (if equipped) If your vehicle has the power seat option, you can adjust it in several directions. The controls are on the outboard side of the driver’s seat. The power controls on the driver’s seat...
  • Page 150 Seating and Safety Restraints Power lumbar support, driver/passenger seat (If equipped) If your vehicle is equipped with this option, you can inflate a lumbar support pad in the seat back. To inflate the lumbar pad, push the raised side of the rocker switch. To deflate, push the recessed side of the switch.
  • Page 151 Lean against the back of the seat and adjust it to the position you want. Release the handle to lock the seatback in position. To return the seatback to upright position, lift the handle and lean forward. Then release the handle. Reclining bucket seat...
  • Page 152 Seating and Safety Restraints Tip Slide Seat (If equipped) This feature allows convenient access into the second row seats through the driver’s door. To operate the tip slide seat: Lift the tip slide release lever located at the base of the driver’s seatback.
  • Page 153 Push on the seatback to move the seat assembly forward. This provides access to the second row for loading and unloading groceries, briefcases, passengers, etc. through the driver’s door.
  • Page 154 Seating and Safety Restraints To return the driver seat to its previous position and seatback angle: Push the seatback to move the seat assembly rearward, until it stops. Continue pushing to return the seatback to its previously locked position. NOTE: When returning the seatback to its original position, you may experience a slight hesitation.
  • Page 155 Your Windstar tip slide seat has been equipped with a lock-out feature which prevents the seatback from returning to its original position until the seat latches in the tracks. If the seat has not latched check under the seat and in the tracks for possible obstructions.
  • Page 156 Seating and Safety Restraints E-Z access operation — passenger side optional second row bucket seats To provide easy access to the rear of the vehicle, the passenger side second row bucket seatback can be tilted forward. To tilt seat forward: Put the seatback in the upright position.
  • Page 157 The seat cushion will move forward when going from the seat to the bed position. 2nd row seat (seat position) To convert the bed to a seat: While in front of the seat, pull the release lever up, slightly raise the seatback, then push the seat bottom rearward until the seatback is in the full upright and locked position.
  • Page 158 Seating and Safety Restraints 2nd row seat (bed position) 3rd row seat To convert the seat to a bed: From the rear of the vehicle, pull down on the release lever located on the right-hand side of the seat, and at the same time pull the seatback rearward.
  • Page 159 3rd row seat (seat position) To convert the bed to a seat: From the rear of the vehicle, pull the release lever down and at the same time lift the seatback up. Raise the seatback to the full upright and locked position. Make sure the safety belts are free and available for use.
  • Page 160 Seating and Safety Restraints 3rd row seat (bed position) Removing the Seats Quick release second row bucket seats (If equipped) To remove the second row bucket seats: Lift the seat latch handles (located at the rear of the seat near the floor) up and rearward, causing the latch hooks to disengage from the rear floor attachments.
  • Page 161 To install the second row bucket seats: Lift the seat assemblies into the vehicle. Locate front hooks on front pins and drop rear hooks over rear pins with enough force to cause the hooks at the rear to engage and hook on to the pins in the floor wells. Ensure that the latch handles are fully seated in the down position.
  • Page 162 Seating and Safety Restraints Figure 1: Second row detachable anchor — detached position...
  • Page 163 Using the clip attached to the end of the shoulder belt, clip the end of the belt to the stationary portion of the shoulder belt (see Figure 2). The end of the shoulder belt must be clipped in order to keep it from striking anything during vehicle operation.
  • Page 164 Seating and Safety Restraints Refer to Figure 3 for steps 3-6. Release the seatback by pulling the lever located at the back of the seat on the right hand side. Fold the seatback forward and latch it in the down position (except for bench seat equipped with built-in child safety seat).
  • Page 165 Figure 3: Removal and installation of the second and third bench seats Be careful that the latches are not damaged when the seats are stored. To install the seat assembly: Clear the area of debris around the seat floor attachments. With the seatback in a folded and latched position (except for bench seats equipped with built-in child safety seat), place the seat assembly in your vehicle.
  • Page 166 Seating and Safety Restraints Ensure that the latch handles are fully seated in the down position. (Second row bench seat only) Before you engage the safety belt, be sure it is not twisted. A twisted safety belt may cause the retractor to not work properly. Remove any twist, then insert the tongue end of the safety belt into the detachable anchor until you hear a “snap”...
  • Page 167 Proper stowage of shoulder safety belt...
  • Page 168: Storage Compartments

    Seating and Safety Restraints The two passenger bench seat must be installed in the first row behind the front seats. WARNING Never adjust the driver’s seat or seatback when the vehicle is moving. WARNING Always latch the vehicle seat to the floor, whether the seat is occupied or empty.
  • Page 169: Safety Belts

    The underseat storage compartment Safety Belts 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. We strongly recommend that you use them every time you travel in your vehicle.
  • Page 170 Seating and Safety Restraints See the following sections in this chapter for directions on how to properly use these safety belts. Also see Safety Restraints for Children in this chapter for special instructions about using safety belts for children. WARNING Make sure that you and your passengers, including pregnant women, wear safety belts.
  • Page 171: Combination Lap And Shoulder Belts

    WARNING Never let a passenger hold a child on his or her lap while the vehicle is moving. The passenger cannot protect the child from injury in a collision. WARNING Lock the doors of your vehicle before driving to lessen the risk of the door coming open in a collision.
  • Page 172 Seating and Safety Restraints Unfastening the combination lap and shoulder belts While the belt retracts, guide the tongue to its original position to prevent it from striking you or part of the vehicle. Shoulder Belt Adjustment (Driver and Right Front Passenger) You can adjust the shoulder belt height to one of five (5) positions.
  • Page 173 The shoulder belt height adjuster Combination Lap and Shoulder Belt — Second Row Bench Seat There is a unique safety restraint system for the outside seating position of the second row bench seat. It is very important that you read and understand this section before anyone rides in the outside seating position (near the sliding door) of the two-passenger bench seat.
  • Page 174 Seating and Safety Restraints Proper stowage of second row shoulder safety belt...
  • Page 175 When removing the second row bench seat: Disengage the safety belt from the seat by inserting a key or small screwdriver into the slot provided on the detachable anchor (see Figure 1). When this shoulder belt assembly is free of the seat, allow the retractor to wind up the slack in the belt.
  • Page 176 Seating and Safety Restraints Figure 1: Second row bench seat detachable anchor...
  • Page 177 Figure 2: Securing the detachable shoulder belt Refer to “Seats” in this section for information on removing and installing seats. After re-installing the second row bench seat, make sure that the safety belt is not twisted before you insert it into the detachable anchor.
  • Page 178 Seating and Safety Restraints WARNING When reinstalling a rear seat in your vehicle it must be placed in its original position. Improper installation of the seat will prevent correct use of the safety belts and could increase the risk of injury. Refer to the warning label on the seat belt.
  • Page 179: Lap Belts

    To switch the retractor from the emergency locking mode to the automatic locking mode, perform the following steps: Buckle the lap/shoulder combination belt. Grasp the shoulder portion of the belt and pull downward until all of the belt is extracted, and when allowed to retract, a clicking sound will be heard.
  • Page 180: Safety Belt Maintenance

    (slide bar) (if so equipped), child safety seat tether bracket assemblies (if so 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 was...
  • Page 181: Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System

    WARNING Failure to follow these instructions will affect the performance of the safety belts and increase the risk of personal injury. 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 lap/shoulder belt, and are designed to supplement the protection provided to properly belted occupants in moderate to severe frontal collisions.
  • Page 182 Seating and Safety Restraints The Importance of Being Properly Seated In a collision, the air bag must inflate extremely fast to help provide additional protection for you. In order to do this, the air bag must inflate with considerable force. If you are not seated in a normal riding position with your back against the seatback, the air bag may not protect you properly and could possibly hurt you as it inflates.
  • Page 183 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. Ask for brochure FPS-8602.
  • Page 184 Seating and Safety Restraints If a collision occurs, the sensors sense the severity of the impact and activates the air bags if necessary. The air bag system is designed to deploy in frontal and front-angled collisions more severe than hitting a parked vehicle (of similar size and weight) head-on at about 28 mph (45 km/h).
  • Page 185 Inflated driver-side air bag...
  • Page 186 Seating and Safety Restraints Inflated passenger-side air bag WARNING The air bag will inflate only once. The system is designed to function on a one-time-only basis. 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, this will increase the risk of injury in a subsequent collision.
  • Page 187: Safety Restraints For Children

    The tone pattern will repeat periodically until the problem and light are repaired. If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the air bag system serviced at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer immediately. Disposal of air bags and air bag equipped vehicles For disposal of air bags or air bag equipped vehicles, see your local Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer.
  • Page 188 Seating and Safety Restraints WARNING Never let a passenger hold a child on his or her lap while the vehicle is moving. The passenger cannot protect the child from injury in a collision. WARNING Cargo should always be secured to prevent it from shifting and causing damage to the vehicle or harm to passengers.
  • Page 189 Built-In Child Seat (If equipped) The second row bench seat may include two optional built-in child safety seats (one on the driver side and one on the passenger side). This child restraint is to be used only by children who are at least one year old, weigh between 9 and 27 kilograms (20 and 60 pounds) and whose shoulders (top) are below the bottom of the headrest in the full up position.
  • Page 190 Seating and Safety Restraints The automatic locking mode must be used to hold small children in position, particularly sleeping children and those who may try to squirm out of the belts. The emergency locking mode is also used while buckling the belts. Frequently check the child seat’s lap and shoulder harness belts for correct placement and tightness.
  • Page 191 How to use the Built-In Child Seat Read the following procedures and all of the labels on the Built-In Child Seat before using the seat. WARNING Never use the Built-In Child Seat as a booster cushion with the adult safety belts. A child using the adult belts could slide forward and out from under the safety belts.
  • Page 192 Seating and Safety Restraints Figure 2: Release the lever and rotate the headrest to the full up position...
  • Page 193 Lower the seat cushion. Refer to Figure 3. The child safety seat will move to a semi-reclined position as the seat cushion is lowered. Read the information and warnings on the child seat cushion protector flap and shoulder safety belt. Refer to Figure 3. Check the child’s size, weight and age to be sure the child is not too small or too large for the child seat.
  • Page 194 Seating and Safety Restraints Place the child on the child seat and position the shoulder belts over each shoulder. Refer to Figure 4. Figure 4: Shoulder safety belt placement on the child NOTE: Read the following steps carefully to become familiar with the indicator windows located on each safety belt tongue and the chest clip.
  • Page 195 Insert either the left or right safety belt tongue into the single opening of the crotch safety belt buckle as shown in Figure 5. (It does not matter which tongue is inserted first.) Then insert the other tongue. The color green must appear in the indicator window on each tongue when buckled.
  • Page 196 Seating and Safety Restraints Fasten both halves of the chest clip below the child’s shoulders and adjust it to comfortably hold the shoulder belts in place on the child’s chest. The color green must appear in the indicator window when fastened. (The purpose of this clip is to position the shoulder belts correctly on the child’s shoulders.) Refer to Figure 6.
  • Page 197 Figure 6: Securing the chest clip...
  • Page 198 Seating and Safety Restraints Pull the shoulder belts out to ensure that the crotch safety belt buckle and chest clip are securely fastened. Refer to Figure 7. Figure 7: Checking for securely latched buckle and chest clip Pull left shoulder belt fully out to put the retractor into the lock mode.
  • Page 199 If the child seat was in use during a collision, Ford recommends replacing it. However, if the collision was minor and a qualified technician finds that the child restraints do not show damage and continue to operate properly, they do not need to be replaced.
  • Page 200 Built-in child seat maintenance Regularly inspect the lap and shoulder belts system of your child seat. See your Ford Dealer if the shoulder belt webbing is frayed, or if the buckle and tongue are damaged and/or do not function properly.
  • Page 201 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 202 Seating and Safety Restraints WARNING When using forward-facing child seats move the passenger seat as far back from the instrument panel as possible. Never secure rear-facing child seats or infant carriers in the front seat. The force of the rapidly inflating passenger air bag could push the top of the rear-facing seat against the vehicle seatback, armrests or console.
  • Page 203 Installing Child Safety Seats in the Front Seat and Rear Window Passenger Seating Positions Your vehicle is equipped with a dual locking mode retractor on the shoulder belt portion of the combination lap/shoulder safety belt for the front seat passenger and for the rear window passengers.
  • Page 204 Seating and Safety Restraints...
  • Page 205 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 that the belt webbing is not twisted. Routing the lap/shoulder belt...
  • Page 206 Seating and Safety Restraints Insert the belt into the proper buckle for that seating position until you hear and feel the latch engage. See Figure 3. Make sure the tongue is latched securely to buckle by pulling on the tongue. Buckling the belt Grasp the shoulder portion of the belt and pull downward until all of the belt is extracted and a click is heard.
  • Page 207 Setting the retractor to automatic locking mode Allow the belt to retract. A clicking sound will be heard as the belt retracts. This indicates the retractor is in the automatic locking mode. Pull on the lap belt portion across the child seat towards the buckle and continue to pull up on the shoulder belt portion while pushing down on the child seat allowing the shoulder belt to retract, to remove any slack in seat belt.
  • Page 208 Seating and Safety Restraints...
  • Page 210 Seating and Safety Restraints Before placing the child into the child seat, forcibly tilt the seat from side to side and in forward directions to make sure that the seat is securely held in place. See Figure 7. Checking that the seat is secure...
  • Page 211 Double check the retractor is in the automatic locking mode. Try to pull more belt out of the retractor. If you cannot, the belt is in the automatic locking mode. See Figure 8. Checking the retractor Check to make sure that the seat is properly secured prior to each use.
  • Page 212 Seating and Safety Restraints Installing a Child Safety Seat at the Center Seating Position with Locking Adjustable Lap Belt Lengthen the lap belt. To lengthen the belt, hold the tongue so that its bottom is perpendicular to the direction of webbing while sliding the tongue up the webbing.
  • Page 213 WARNING Use only the tether attachment locations shown below. The tether anchor may not perform properly if the wrong mounting location is used. Three tether strap anchor locations have been provided in your vehicle. They are as follows: Tether strap anchor locations...
  • Page 214 Seating and Safety Restraints FRONT PASSENGER SEATING POSITION — You must use the tether strap anchor location provided on the back of the seat cushion frame. (Refer to Figure 1.) Figure 1: Tether anchor location — Front passenger seat SECOND ROW BENCH (if equipped) SEATING POSITION —...
  • Page 215 Figure 2: Tether anchor location — second row bench seat (with built-in child safety seat)
  • Page 216 Seating and Safety Restraints Figure 3: Tether anchor location — second row bench seat (without built-in child safety seat)
  • Page 217 SECOND ROW BUCKET (if equipped) SEATING POSITION — You must use the tether strap anchor location provided on the back of the seat cushion. (Refer to Figure 4.) Figure 4: Tether anchor location — second row bucket seat WARNING Only use the tether attachment hole locations shown in the illustrations.
  • Page 218: Starting

    Starting Fuel-Injected Engines Since your vehicle has a fuel-injected engine, the most important thing to remember is to avoid pressing down on the accelerator while cranking the engine to start. Only use the accelerator when you have problems getting your vehicle started.
  • Page 219 DO NOT depress the accelerator pedal when starting your engine. DO NOT use the accelerator until after the engine is running and you are ready to drive away. Turn the key to the START position until the engine starts. (Release the key after the engine has started and it will return to the ON position.) If you have difficulty in turning the key, rotate the steering wheel slightly to relieve any binding.
  • Page 220 Starting NOTE : Your vehicl e has an interloc k tha t prevent s you from shiftin g out of P (Park ) unles s your foo t i s on the brak e pedal. If the engine still does not start after two attempts: Turn the key to the OFF position and wait about two minutes.
  • Page 221 Using the Engine Block Heater (If equipped) Using your engine block heater is strongly recommended if you live in a region where temperatures consistently reach 20˚F ( 29˚C) or below during the winter months. An engine block heater warms the engine coolant which improves starting, warms up the engine faster, and allows the heater-defrost system to respond more quickly.
  • Page 222 Starting Have the exhaust and body ventilation systems checked by a qualified technician whenever: your vehicle is raised for service the sound of the exhaust system changes your vehicle has been damaged in an accident If the exhaust system has any indications of leaks it should be repaired immediately.
  • Page 223: Driving

    Driving Brakes When the foot (service) brake pedal is depressed, the high-mount brake lamp should illuminate. Front Disc Brakes The front disc brakes are self-adjusting. They only require periodic inspection for pad wear. Rear Disc Brakes (If equipped) The rear disc brakes are self-adjusting. They only require periodic inspection for pad wear.
  • Page 224 Ford Motor Company has not found any negative effects of mobile radio transmitting equipment installed on vehicles with the ABS system providing that the radio is installed according to the radio manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Page 225 Driving key to the ON position) have your mobile radio dealer inspect the radio installation. Also, if the ABS system is activated other than during maximum braking, have your mobile radio installation checked. If Brakes Do Not Grip Well or Pedal is “Low” If the brake pedal seems “low”...
  • Page 226 WARNING If you are driving down a long or steep hill, shift to a lower gear. Do not apply your brakes continuously, as they may overheat and become less effective. Using the Parking Brake The parking brake should be used whenever you park your vehicle.
  • Page 227 Driving WARNING Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn off the ignition whenever you leave your vehicle. WARNING If the parking brake is fully released, but the Brake System light remains on, have the brakes checked immediately.
  • Page 228: Automatic Transaxle Operation

    Steering Your Vehicle Your vehicle has power steering. Power steering uses energy from the engine to help steer your vehicle. Never hold the steering wheel in the extreme right or left position for more than five seconds if the engine is running. This can damage the power steering pump.
  • Page 229 Driving The steering column gearshift WARNING Hold the brake pedal down while you move the gearshift lever from position to position. If you do not hold the brake pedal down, your vehicle may move unexpectedly and injure someone. Once you place the gearshift lever securely into position, gradually release the brake pedal and use the accelerator as necessary.
  • Page 230 If the shift lever cannot be moved from the P (Park) position with the brake pedal depressed: Shut the engine off and remove the ignition key. Apply the parking brake. Reinsert the ignition key and turn it to the first position (OFF).
  • Page 231 Driving When to use j Overdrive Overdrive is the normal driving position. When the gearshift lever is placed in j Overdrive, and the Overdrive Off button has not been pressed, the vehicle will automatically upshift to second, third and fourth gears. The transaxle will shift into the correct gear when the right speed is reached.
  • Page 232 NOTE: If the O/D OFF indicator light is flashing on and off repeatedly when the vehicle is started, there is a transaxle electronic system malfunction. Contact your dealer as soon as possible. When to use 2 (Second) Use 2 (Second) when driving on slippery roads or to provide additional engine braking on downgrades.
  • Page 233: Vehicle Loading Information

    Driving WARNING Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running. Forced Downshifts To gain extra acceleration in j (Overdrive) (when passing another vehicle) push the accelerator to the floor. The transaxle will automatically downshift to the appropriate gear (third, second or first).
  • Page 234 Understanding Loading Information There are five terms that are used to describe a vehicle’s ability to carry a load: Base Curb Weight Payload GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) Base Curb Weight The base curb weight is the weight of the vehicle including fuel, coolants, lubricants, emergency tools and spare wheel and tire.
  • Page 235 Driving Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) To avoid overloading your vehicle, never exceed the specified Gross Vehicle Weight Rating for your vehicle. The GVWR is the maximum allowable weight of the vehicle when fully loaded including passengers, cargo and all equipment. Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) We have all seen a car or a truck that is loaded down in the rear and riding high in the front.
  • Page 236 Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) The GCWR is the maximum allowable weight of the towing vehicle and the loaded trailer (including all cargo and passengers). Calculating the Payload for Your Vehicle To know how much weight your vehicle can carry: Obtain the GVWR and GAWR from your Safety Compliance Certification Label.
  • Page 237 Driving If you suspect that your payload is excessive, have your vehicle weighed at a highway weight station or another appropriate commercial facility. Fill the fuel tank. Weigh the total vehicle and trailer (if applicable), then separately weigh the vehicle at the front and rear wheels.
  • Page 238 Hitches For towing trailers up to 2,000 lbs. (907 kg), use a good weight-carrying hitch and hitch ball which uniformly distributes the trailer tongue load through the underbody structure. Do not use single clamp bumper hitches or hitches that attach to the axle.
  • Page 239 Driving WARNING Always replace a fuse with one that has the specified amperage rating. Using a fuse with a higher amperage rating can cause severe wire damage and could start a fire. Driving While You Tow Be especially careful when driving while you tow a trailer. Never drive faster than 45 mph (70 km/h) when you tow in hilly country on hot days.
  • Page 240 When turning, drive slightly beyond the normal turning point so the trailer wheels will clear curbs or other obstructions. Allow more room for stopping with a trailer attached. Trailer brakes should be applied first, whether manually or automatically controlled, when approaching a stop. For an easy-to-operate vehicle/trailer combination, the trailer tongue load should be approximately 10-15% of the loaded trailer weight.
  • Page 241 Driving Complete the following steps to start your vehicle after it has been parked on a grade: Apply the foot service brake pedal and hold. Start the engine. Shift the gearshift lever into gear and release the parking brake. Release the foot service brake pedal and move the vehicle uphill to free the wheel chocks.
  • Page 242 The rear cross-bar can be adjusted forward and backward. Place your luggage between the bars, adjust the rear bar, and secure the luggage with rope to the bars. Items carried on the roof rack must be properly secured before driving your vehicle. The adjustable cross-bar Driving Under Special Conditions Tips for Safe Driving...
  • Page 243 Driving at very high speeds for extended periods of time may result in damage to vehicle components. Ford Motor Company recommends obeying posted speed limits. WARNING Do not spin the wheels at over 35 mph (55 km/h). The tires may fail and injure a passenger or bystander.
  • Page 244 Use the “squeeze” technique for braking as described in previous braking sections. Consider using one of the lower gears. WARNING To avoid skidding and losing control on slippery roads, do not downshift into 1 (First) when you are moving faster than 20 mph (30 km/h). WARNING The Anti-Lock Brake System may not prevent brake lock-up on extremely slippery surfaces.
  • Page 245 Driving See Traction Control Off Light in the Instrumentation section of this guide for more information. Do not rock the vehicle for more than a few minutes. This may overheat the engine, damage the transaxle, or damage the tires. Driving With a Heavy Load The Safety Compliance Certification Label, located on the driver’s door pillar, provides important information regarding the weight limits your vehicle can safely carry or tow.
  • Page 246 Towing a Trailer Towing a trailer puts an additional load on your vehicle’s engine, transaxle, axle, brakes, tires and suspension. For your safety and for the good of your vehicle, use the right equipment for the type of trailer you tow. Stay within the load limits when you tow.
  • Page 247: Roadside Emergencies

    Roadside Emergencies The hazard flasher is used to alert other drivers to hazardous situations. The hazard flasher switch operates the same lamps as the turn signal lever. When the hazard flasher is activated, all of these lamps will flash on and off. The turn signal indicators cannot be used when the hazard lamps are flashing.
  • Page 248 Fuel pump shut-off switch reset button location If the engine cranks but does not start or if you have had a collision, the fuel pump shut-off switch may have been triggered. The shut-off switch is a device that automatically stops the flow of fuel to the engine when your vehicle has been involved in a collision.
  • Page 249 Roadside Emergencies Turn the ignition key to the ON position for a few seconds, then turn it to the OFF position. Check under the vehicle again for leaking fuel. If you see or smell fuel, do not start your vehicle again. If there is no fuel, you can try to start your vehicle again.
  • Page 250 The following charts tell you which fuses protect each electrical part of your vehicle. If a fuse blows (opens) a circuit, all the parts of your vehicle that use that circuit will not work. Once you have determined which fuses to check, follow the procedures under Checking and replacing fuses.
  • Page 251 Roadside Emergencies On the fuse panel, find the number of the fuse you want to check. Main fuse panel under instrument panel...
  • Page 253 Roadside Emergencies...
  • Page 254 Use the fuse puller tool to remove the fuse. Check the fuse to see if it is blown. Look through the clear side of the fuse to see if the metal wire inside is separated. If it is, the fuse is blown and should be replaced with a fuse of the correct amperage rating.
  • Page 255 Roadside Emergencies The following chart indicates the colors and amperage ratings of standard fuses.
  • Page 256 Engine Compartment Main Fuse Panel Engine compartment main fuse panel located on driver’s side of engine compartment Engine compartment main fuse and relay panel...
  • Page 257 Roadside Emergencies...
  • Page 258 WARNING Always disconnect the battery before servicing high current fuses. Ford recommends that high current fuses be replaced by a qualified technician. WARNING Always replace the cover to the Power Distribution Box before reconnecting the battery or refilling fluid reservoirs.
  • Page 259: Changing A Flat Tire

    Roadside Emergencies The relay box cover located under the instrument panel Changing a Flat Tire If you get a flat tire while you are driving, do not apply the brake heavily. Instead, gradually decrease the speed. Hold the steering wheel firmly and slowly move to a safe place on the side of the road.
  • Page 260 WARNING If you use the temporary spare tire continuously or do not follow these precautions, the tire could fail, causing you to lose control of the vehicle, possibly injuring yourself or others. When you drive with the temporary spare tire, DO NOT: exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) under any circumstances load your vehicle so that it is heavier than the maximum vehicle load rating listed on the tire decal...
  • Page 261 Roadside Emergencies Removing the spare tire Open the liftgate and find the plastic hex nut cover in the carpeting of the cargo area. Lift the cover to expose the hex nut. The spare tire cover Find the lug wrench in the tool kit located behind the jack in the right cargo area side panel.
  • Page 262 The spare tire in the lowered position Continue to turn the hex nut counterclockwise until the spare tire retainer can be seen for removal. Remove the retainer from the center of the wheel. It may be necessary to lift one end of the tire to disengage the retainer. Removing the spare tire retainer...
  • Page 263 Roadside Emergencies Changing the Tire You should only raise your vehicle with a jack properly placed at the front or rear jacking points. Make sure that your vehicle will not move or roll and that the tires and jack are on a level, solid surface. Put the gearshift lever in P (Park).
  • Page 264 Get out the spare tire and jack. See previous section for instructions on spare tire removal. The jack is located in the rear storage compartment in the right door panel of the cargo area. Remove wing bolt to unfasten jack. Jack storage...
  • Page 265 Roadside Emergencies Insert the tapered end of the jack handle behind the wheel cover of the tire to be changed and gently pry it off. When you want to replace the wheel cover, simply align the valve stem to the slot in the cover and press it back on. Wheel cover removal If you have the optional cast-aluminum wheels, remove the wheel cap to gain access to the lug nuts.
  • Page 266 Wheel cover removal (optional cast aluminum wheels) Fit the hex-shaped end of the lug wrench over the wheel lug nuts and loosen them one-half turn (counterclockwise). Do not remove the wheel lug nuts until you raise the tire off the ground.
  • Page 267 Roadside Emergencies The notches for the jack Jack placement NOTE: If your vehicle is equipped with running boards, refer to the following illustration before jacking.
  • Page 268 Jacking information for running boards...
  • Page 269 Roadside Emergencies WARNING To avoid injury, never run the engine with one wheel off the ground, such as when changing a tire. WARNING To lessen the risk of personal injury, do not put any part of your body under the vehicle while changing a tire. Do not start the engine when your vehicle is on the jack.
  • Page 270 The jack and handle assembly Turn the lug nut wrench (attached to the jack handle) clockwise to raise the vehicle off the ground. Remove the wheel lug nuts with the lug nut wrench. Remove the flat tire and replace it with the spare tire. Place the wheel lug nuts on the spare tire.
  • Page 271 Roadside Emergencies Lug nut tightening sequence The lug nuts should be tightened to 83-113 ft-lb (113-153 Nm). Replace the wheel cover by pressing it into place. If you have the standard wheel covers, you must align the notch in the wheel cover with the tire’s valve stem and align the recess in the back of the wheel cover with one of the lug nuts.
  • Page 272: Jump-Starting Your Vehicle

    Stowing the spare tire To raise the tire to the stowed position, lay the tire on the ground with the interior side facing up. Install the retainer through the wheel center and slide the tire under the vehicle. Fit the hex-shaped end of the wheel lug wrench over the hex nut in the floor of the cargo area.
  • Page 273 Roadside Emergencies WARNING To protect yourself when charging a battery, always shield your face and eyes. Make sure that you can breathe fresh air. WARNING Applying too much pressure on the ends when lifting a battery could cause acid to spill. Lift the battery with a carrier or with your hands on the opposite corners.
  • Page 274 Park the second vehicle close to the hood of your vehicle, but make sure the vehicles do not touch each other. Set the parking brake on both vehicles and stay clear of the engine cooling fan. Check the battery terminals and remove any excessive corrosion before you attach the jumper cables.
  • Page 275 Roadside Emergencies Jumper Cable Placement (3.8L)
  • Page 276 Jumper Cable Placement (3.0L)
  • Page 277 Roadside Emergencies After you connect the jumper cables to the batteries: Make sure that the jumper cables are not in the way of moving engine parts, then start the vehicle that has the booster battery. Run the engine at a moderate speed. Let the dead battery charge for a few minutes and then start the vehicle that has the dead battery.
  • Page 278: Towing Your Vehicle

    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 operators. Have your tow truck driver refer to this manual for the proper...
  • Page 279: Maintenance And Care

    Maintenance and Care How Ford Makes Servicing Your Vehicle Easy Ford has two goals for servicing your vehicle. When we can, we design parts that do not need to be serviced. We want to make servicing your vehicle as easy as possible.
  • Page 280 Never get under a vehicle while it is supported by a jack only. If you must work under a vehicle, use safety stands. Keep all lit cigarettes and other smoking materials away from the battery and all fuel-related parts. Working Under the Hood Before you open the hood, read this section carefully.
  • Page 281 Maintenance and Care WARNING Do not start your engine with the air cleaner removed and do not remove it while the engine is running. To open the hood: Pull the hood release lever located below the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel. Hood release lever location Go to the front of the vehicle and release the secondary hood latch under the hood in the front center of the vehicle.
  • Page 282 Propping the hood...
  • Page 283: Engine Compartment

    Maintenance and Care To close the hood: Remove the prop rod from the slotted hole in the hood. Place the rod in its retaining clip and close the hood with enough force to make it latch. Be sure to oil the hood latch every six months to maintain smooth operation.
  • Page 284 The engine compartment (3.0 liter only)
  • Page 285 Maintenance and Care The engine compartment (3.8 liter only)
  • Page 286 What to Check When You Stop at a Service Station Engine Oil Recommendations We recommend using Motorcraft oil or an equivalent oil meeting Ford Specification WSS-M2C153-F and displaying the American Petroleum Institute CERTIFICATION MARK on the front of the container. Use only engine oils displaying the American Petroleum...
  • Page 287 Maintenance and Care Engine oils with an SAE 5W-30 viscosity are PREFERRED for your vehicle. They provide the best engine performance, fuel economy and engine protection for all climates down to -15˚F (-25˚C). Synthetic engine oils which are CERTIFIED and of the preferred viscosity may be used in your engine.
  • Page 288 Engine oil dipstick Carefully, pull the dipstick out again. If the oil level is below the “ADD 1 QT.” line, add engine oil as necessary. If the oil level is beyond the letter “F” in FULL, engine damage or high oil consumption may occur and some oil must be removed from the engine.
  • Page 289: Brake Fluid

    If the fluid is low, carefully clean and remove the filler cap from the reservoir. Fill the reservoir to the MAX line with Ford High Performance DOT 3 Brake Fluid C6AZ-19542-AB or DOT 3 equivalent fluid meeting Ford specification ESA-M6C25-A.
  • Page 290 The brake fluid reservoir WARNING If you use a brake fluid that is not DOT 3, you will cause permanent damage to your brakes. Do not fill the reservoir above the MAX line. If you find that the fluid level is excessively low — below the seam or ridge on the outside of the plastic reservoir —...
  • Page 291: Windshield Washer Fluid

    Maintenance and Care Windshield Washer Fluid Washer Fluid Check the level of the windshield washer fluid every time you stop for fuel. The reservoir for washer fluid is located on the front, passenger side of the engine compartment. This reservoir contains the fluid for both the windshield and liftgate washers.
  • Page 292: Engine Coolant

    (VOCs) 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. WARNING Windshield washer fluid contains methanol which is poisonous.
  • Page 293 Maintenance and Care Engine coolant recovery reservoir fill location Use Ford Premium Cooling System Fluid or an equivalent engine coolant that meets Ford Specification ESE-M97B44-A. Do not use alcohol or methanol antifreeze and do not use engine coolant mixed with alcohol or methanol antifreeze. If you do not use the proper coolant, the aluminum radiator on your vehicle will corrode.
  • Page 294 — not to the radiator. If the coolant level is low, add to the engine coolant recovery reservoir a 50/50 mixture of water and the type of engine coolant that Ford specifies. If the coolant recovery reservoir is empty, you should also check the radiator to see if it is low.
  • Page 295 Maintenance and Care 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 gasoline powered vehicle.
  • Page 296 Motorcraft parts or their equivalents. Engine Coolant Drain and Flush To drain and flush your engine coolant, you MUST see your Ford dealer or refer to the procedure in the service manual. Failing to do so could result in engine damage. Power Steering Fluid Check the level of the power steering fluid at least twice a year (i.e., every Spring and Fall).
  • Page 297 Make sure the cap is free of all dirt prior to re-installing to prevent pump damage. Use only power steering fluid that meets Ford Specification ESW-M2C33-F, such as Ford Premium Power Steering Fluid, E6AZ-19582-AA or an equivalent Type F Automatic Transaxle Fluid with a Ford registration number (an 8-digit number beginning with “2P”...
  • Page 298: Automatic Transaxle Fluid

    NOTE: If the power steering fluid is low, do not drive your vehicle for a long period of time before adding fluid. This can damage the power steering pump. If you must check the power steering fluid when it is cold, make sure that the fluid reaches at least the minimum (MIN) mark.
  • Page 299 Maintenance and Care Wipe off the dipstick cap, pull the dipstick out and wipe the indicator end clean. Put the dipstick back into the filler tube and make sure it is fully seated. Pull the dipstick out and read the fluid level.
  • Page 300 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. NOTE: Always use Motorcraft MERCON or equivalent MERCON automatic transaxle fluid when you refill your automatic transaxle fluid.
  • Page 301 If the battery needs water often, have the charging system checked. 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 302: Wiper Blades

    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 303 Maintenance and Care Wiper Blade Replacement If the wipers still do not work properly after you clean them, you may need to replace the wiper blade assembly. When replacing the wiper blade assembly always use a Motorcraft part or equivalent. To replace the wiper blades: Pull the wiper arm away from the windshield and into the lock position.
  • Page 304 WARNING Always obey posted speed limits. If you drive too fast for road conditions, you could lose control of your vehicle. Under some circumstances, driving at very high speeds for extended periods of time may damage vehicle components, creating a risk of component failure and a potential loss of vehicle control.
  • Page 305 Maintenance and Care Rotating the tires If your vehicle has the optional full-size spare tire, you may rotate the spare tire into the rotation pattern. If your vehicle has aluminum wheels, you may remove the full-size (if equipped) spare tire from the wheel and remount it on an aluminum wheel to rotate the spare tire into your vehicle’s rotation pattern.
  • Page 306 WARNING Make sure that all replacement tires are of the same size, type, load-carrying capacity, and tread design (e.g. “All Terrain”, etc.), as originally offered by Ford. WARNING Do not replace your tires with “high performance” tires or larger size tires.
  • Page 307 Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 575.104(c)(2). 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.
  • Page 308 Traction A B C The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are A, B, and C, and they represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance.
  • Page 309 Maintenance and Care WARNING When using snow tires, make sure they are the same size and grade as the tires you normally use on your vehicle. Do not use chains when using a temporary spare. For full size tires, use chains on the tires only in an emergency or if the law requires them where you live.
  • Page 310 Filling Your Fuel Tank With Fuel Open the fuel door (located on the driver’s side of the vehicle). Unscrew the fuel cap by exerting pressure on the plastic cap and rotating the fuel cap counterclockwise. Turn the fuel cap 3/4 of a turn until a hissing sound is heard.
  • Page 311 Maintenance and Care The fuel door To replace and secure the fuel cap, place it in position and rotate it clockwise until it clicks (ratchets). The ratcheting mechanism allows the fuel cap to be sealed without overtightening. If you lose the fuel cap, replace it with an authorized Motorcraft or equivalent part.
  • Page 312 A venting fuel tank is not an abnormal condition. It may be caused by: too volatile a fuel for the weather conditions. Service stations sometimes sell winter grade fuel in the summer. pulling a heavy load on hot days, or at high altitudes. extended periods of idling with the engine RPM increased above the normal idle range.
  • Page 313 Maintenance and Care In some parts of the country, “regular” grade fuels are sold with octane ratings of 86 or even less especially in high altitude areas. We recommend that you do not use these fuels. Always use a fuel with an octane rating of at least 87, even if it is sold as a “midgrade”...
  • Page 314 Gasolines for clean air Ford approves the use of gasolines to improve air quality, including reformulated gasolines, that contain oxygenates such as a maximum of 10% ethanol or 15% MTBE. There should be no more than 5% methanol with co-solvents and additives to protect the fuel system.
  • Page 315 Maintenance and Care If gasoline is swallowed, do not induce vomiting. If a gasoline-methanol blend is swallowed, induce vomiting under the direction of a physician or poison control center. Gasoline and gasoline-methanol blends may contain small amounts of carcinogens, such as benzene. Long-term exposure to unleaded gasoline vapors has caused cancer in laboratory animals.
  • Page 316 Running Out of Fuel If your vehicle runs out of fuel, try to stop on level ground away from traffic. Add at least two gallons (8 liters) of fuel to start your vehicle again. If your vehicle is not on level ground, you may need as much as five gallons (20 liters) of fuel to start You may need to turn the ignition to START several times before engaging the starter (leaving it in that position several...
  • Page 317 Maintenance and Care Comparisons With Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Fuel Economy Estimates EPA fuel economy figures are obtained from laboratory tests under simulated road conditions and therefore are estimates which may not reflect the actual conditions you experience. The tests also do not exactly duplicate your personal style of driving, including all your stops, starts, and lane changes.
  • Page 318: Emission Control System

    Keep the tires properly inflated. To find out the recommended tire pressure, see Checking the pressure of the tires later in this chapter. Use your air conditioning system wisely. To find out about fuel economy and air conditioning, see Climate control systems in the Index.
  • Page 319 Maintenance and Care WARNING Do not park, idle, or drive your vehicle in dry grass or other dry ground cover. The emission system heats up the engine compartment and exhaust system, which can start a fire. WARNING Do not remove the floor carpet in your vehicle. Emission controls cause high exhaust temperatures under the floor.
  • Page 320 Ford strongly recommends the use of genuine Ford replacement parts. If other than Ford or Motorcraft parts or Ford authorized remanufactured parts are used for maintenance replacements or for the service of components affecting emission control, such non-Ford parts should be equivalent to genuine Ford Motor Company parts in performance and durability.
  • Page 321 Maintenance and Care How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) Testing In some localities it may become a legal requirement to pass an Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) test of the On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) II system. If the vehicle’s powertrain system or its battery has just been serviced, the OBD II system is reset to a not ready for I/M testing condition.
  • Page 322 The alignment of your headlamps should be checked if: oncoming motorists frequently signal you to turn off your vehicle’s high beams when you do not have the high beams the headlamps do not seem to give you enough light to see clearly at night the headlamp beams are not pointed slightly down and to the right...
  • Page 323 Maintenance and Care Headlamp bulb removal Squeeze the bulb retaining clip toward the bulb until it releases. Keep the clip. You must use it again to hold the new bulb in place. Carefully remove the bulb assembly from its socket by gently pulling it rearward without turning.
  • Page 324 To install a bulb: With the flat side of the bulb’s plastic base facing upward, insert the glass end of the bulb into the socket. You may need to turn the bulb left or right to line up the grooves in the plastic base with the tabs in the socket.
  • Page 325 Maintenance and Care Taillamp lens removal Grasp lens along liftgate opening edge and pull straight rearward until snap attachment releases. Remove bulb and socket by twisting to unlock and pulling straight out. Remove bulb from socket by pulling straight out from socket.
  • Page 326 Light bulb locations...
  • Page 327 Maintenance and Care Replacing The Fog Lamp Bulb To remove a bulb: Disconnect wiring connector from lamp. Rotate bulb and socket to remove from lamp. To install a bulb: Install bulb and socket into lamp and rotate. Connect wiring connector to lamp.
  • Page 328 Bulb replacement chart...
  • Page 329: Cleaning Your Vehicle

    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,...
  • Page 330 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. Use a vinyl cleaner for routine cleaning.
  • Page 331 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 any abrasive cleaner to clean the lens as these may cause scratches.
  • Page 332 Cleaning the Seats Leather and vinyl For routine cleaning, wipe the surface with a soft, damp cloth. For more thorough cleaning, wipe the surface with a leather cleaner of a mild soap. Fabric Remove dust and loose dirt with a whisk broom or a vacuum cleaner.
  • Page 333: Capacities And Specifications

    Capacities and Specifications Motorcraft Parts...
  • Page 334 Refill Capacities...
  • Page 335 Capacities and Specifications Lubricant Specifications...
  • Page 336: 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 keep your vehicle in good operating condition. General Store your vehicle in a dry, ventilated place. Protect from sunlight, if possible.
  • Page 337 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 338 Cooling system Protect your vehicle against freezing temperatures. Battery Check and recharge the battery as necessary. Keep connections clean and covered with a light coat of grease. Brakes Make sure the brakes and parking brake are fully released. Tires Maintain recommended air pressure. Miscellaneous Make sure all linkages, cables, levers and clevis pins under the vehicle are covered with grease to prevent rust.
  • Page 339: Reporting Safety Defects

    However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or Ford Motor Company. To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S.
  • Page 340: Customer Assistance

    To purchase Roadside Assistance coverages beyond this period (available through Ford Auto Club in the United States or Ford and Lincoln-Mercury dealers in Canada), contact your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. Additional Roadside Assistance coverage is unavailable in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
  • Page 341 If You Have a Service Concern Ford Motor Company has authorized Ford and Lincoln-Mercury dealerships to service your vehicle. This section tells you how to get service or maintenance for your vehicle. Dealership Service and Maintenance Your satisfaction is our #1 goal. If you have questions or...
  • Page 342 Customer Assistance In Canada: Outside the U.S. or Canada: To process your request, the Ford Customer Assistance Center needs the following information: your telephone number(s) (both business and home) the name of the dealer and the city where the dealership is...
  • Page 343 What Kinds of Cases Does the Board Review? The Board reviews all product performance and service 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...
  • Page 344 How Does the Board Work? The Board consists of: 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 345 It will also provide you with a form to indicate your acceptance or rejection of an award decision. 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.
  • Page 346 Ford Motor Company the names (if known) of all the people you contacted at the dealership...
  • Page 347 Middle East, contact the nearest Ford dealership. If the dealership cannot help you, contact: 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.
  • Page 348 Mediation/Arbitration Program (Canada Only) 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 349 CAMVAP decisions are fast, fair and final as the arbitrator’s award is binding on both you and Ford of Canada. CAMVAP services are available in all territories and provinces, except Quebec. For more information, without charge or obligation, call your CAMVAP Provincial Administrator directly at 1-800-207-0685.
  • Page 350: Accessories

    Accessories Ford Accessories for Your Windstar Many accessories for your Windstar are available through your local authorized dealer. These accessories have been designed to meet your needs and are custom designed to complement the style and aerodynamics of your vehicle. Some of the available accessories are listed below.
  • Page 351 In addition, to insure continued compliance with the FCC’s requirements, RF devices must not be modified or changed in a manner not expressly approved by Ford Motor Company.
  • Page 352 5 watts or less, ordinarily will not affect vehicle operation.) NOTE: Because Ford has no control over the operation or manufacture of such systems or their installation, Ford cannot assume responsibility for any adverse effects or...
  • Page 354 Warning label locations...
  • Page 364: Index

    Index ABS warning light (see Anti-lock brake system) ..12 Accessory position on the ignition... . Additives, engine oil ....Air bag supplemental restraint system and child safety seats .
  • Page 365 Anti-theft system (continued) triggering ....144, 146 warning light ..... Appeals (see Dispute settlement board) .
  • Page 366 Index Brake fluid ..... . brake warning light ....11 checking and adding .
  • Page 367 Canada, customer assistance ....Canada, warranty information ....Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP) . . . Capacities for refilling fluids .
  • Page 368 Index Cleaning your vehicle ....CD player and discs ....51 chrome and aluminum parts .
  • Page 369 Cupholder(s) ..... . Customer Assistance Center, Ford (U.S.) ..Customer Assistance Centre, Ford of Canada ..
  • Page 370 Index Electrical system fuses ......operating when the engine is off ... relays .
  • Page 371 Exhaust fumes ....Extended Service Plan, Ford ....
  • Page 372 Ford Dispute Settlement Board ... . . Ford Extended Service Plan....Ford Motor Company of Canada ... .
  • Page 373 Fuel and distance computer (continued) to empty indicator ....trip distance ..... Fuel cap, replacing .
  • Page 374 Index Gearshift (continued) positions ..... . shifting the gears ....shift-lock .
  • Page 375 Hood (continued) release lever ....working under the hood....Horn .
  • Page 376 Index Keyless entry system autolock ..... . locking and unlocking doors ... . . programming entry code.
  • Page 377 Lights, warning and indicator (continued) check engine ..... door ajar ..... . . hazard warning light .
  • Page 378 Index Mirrors (continued) side view mirrors (manual)....side view mirrors (power) ....vanity mirror, illuminated ....Motorcraft parts .
  • Page 379 Power steering dipstick ..... . driving with power steering ... . . fluid, checking and adding.
  • Page 380 Index Safe driving tips ....Safety Compliance Certification Label ..Safety information relating to automotive fuels ..Safety restraints adjusting the safety belts .
  • Page 381 Servicing your vehicle precautions when servicing ... . . servicing when you tow ....Shift-lock system ....Shift positions (see Gearshift) .
  • Page 382 Index Storing your vehicle ....Supplemental air bag readiness light ... 17 Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) ..Tachometer .
  • Page 383 Transaxle automatic operation ....fluid, checking and adding (automatic) ..lubricant specifications....Transaxle control switch .
  • Page 384 Index Warranty Information Booklet ....Washer fluid ..... rear window reservoir .
  • Page 385: Service Station Information

    Service Station Information...

This manual is also suitable for:

1997 windstar

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