Ford Mercury Villager 1997 Owner's Manual page 212

2. Keep your foot on the brake pedal and turn the ignition key to
ON.
3. DO NOT depress the accelerator pedal when starting your
engine. DO NOT use the accelerator while the vehicle is
parked.
4. Turn the key to the START position (cranking) until the engine
starts. Allow the key to return to the ON position after the
engine has started.
If you have difficulty in turning the key, rotate the steering
wheel slightly because it may be binding.
For a cold engine:
At temperatures 10° F (-12° C) and below: If the engine does
not start in fifteen (15) seconds on the first try, turn the key
to OFF, wait approximately ten (10) seconds so you do not flood
the engine, then try again.
At temperatures above 10° F (-12° C): If the engine does not
start in five (5) seconds on the first try, turn the key to OFF,
wait approximately ten (10) seconds so you do not flood the
engine, then try again.
For a warm engine:
Do not hold the key in the START position for more than five
(5) seconds at a time. If the engine does not start within five
(5) seconds on the first try, turn the key to the OFF position. Wait
a few seconds after the starter stops, then try again.
Whenever you start your vehicle, release the key as soon as the
engine starts. Excessive cranking could damage the starter.
After you start the engine, let it idle for a few seconds. Keep
your foot on the brake pedal and release the parking brake. Put
the gearshift lever in gear, slowly release the brake pedal and
drive away in the normal manner.
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