Ford Explorer 2004 Owner's Manual
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  • Page 1 Table of Contents Table of Contents Introduction Instrument Cluster Warning and control lights Gauges Entertainment Systems AM/FM stereo with CD AM/FM stereo with in-dash six CD AM/FM stereo cassette with CD Climate Controls Manual heating and air conditioning Electronic automatic temperature control Rear passenger climate control Rear window defroster Lights...
  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Seating and Safety Restraints Seating Safety restraints Air bags Child restraints Driving Starting Brakes Traction control/AdvanceTrac Transmission operation Vehicle loading Trailer towing Recreational towing Roadside Emergencies Getting roadside assistance Hazard flasher switch Fuel pump shut-off switch Fuses and relays Changing tires Jump starting Wrecker towing...
  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Ford Motor Company. Ford may change the contents without notice and without incurring obligation. Copyright © 2004 Ford Motor Company...
  • Page 4: Introduction

    State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. CONGRATULATIONS Congratulations on acquiring your new Ford. Please take the time to get well acquainted with your vehicle by reading this handbook. The more you know and understand about your vehicle, the greater the safety and pleasure you will derive from driving it.
  • Page 5 Introduction to such questions are contained in comments highlighted by the warning triangle symbol. These comments should be read and observed. Warning symbols on your vehicle When you see this symbol, it is imperative that you consult the relevant section of this guide before touching or attempting adjustment of any kind.
  • Page 6 • where the driver was positioning the steering wheel. To access this information, special equipment must be directly connected to the recording modules. Ford Motor Company and Ford of Canada do not access event data recorder information without obtaining consent,...
  • Page 7 Your vehicle is not equipped with a snowplowing package. Using your vehicle as an ambulance Do not use this vehicle as an ambulance. Your vehicle is not equipped with the Ford Ambulance Preparation Package. MIDDLE EAST/NORTH AFRICA VEHICLE SPECIFIC INFORMATION...
  • Page 8 Introduction These are some of the symbols you may see on your vehicle. Vehicle Symbol Glossary Safety Alert See Owner’s Guide Fasten Safety Belt Air Bag-Front Air Bag-Side Child Seat Child Seat Installation Child Seat Lower Warning Anchor Child Seat Tether Brake System Anchor Brake Fluid -...
  • Page 9 Introduction Vehicle Symbol Glossary Power Windows Power Window Lockout Front/Rear Interior Luggage Child Safety Door Compartment Release Lock/Unlock Symbol Panic Alarm Engine Oil Engine Coolant Engine Coolant Temperature Do Not Open When Hot Battery Avoid Smoking, Flames, Battery Acid or Sparks Explosive Gas Fan Warning Maintain Correct Fluid...
  • Page 10: Instrument Cluster

    Instrument Cluster Instrument Cluster WARNING LIGHTS AND CHIMES Standard instrument cluster Optional instrument cluster Warning lights and gauges can alert you to a vehicle condition that may become serious enough to cause expensive repairs. A warning light may illuminate when a problem exists with one of your vehicle’s functions. Many lights will illuminate when you start your vehicle to make sure the bulb works.
  • Page 11 Instrument Cluster On board diagnostics (OBD-II) in the Maintenance and Specifications chapter. If the light is blinking, engine misfire is occurring which could damage your catalytic converter. Drive in a moderate fashion (avoid heavy acceleration and deceleration) and have your vehicle serviced immediately.
  • Page 12 Instrument Cluster Air bag readiness: If this light fails to illuminate when ignition is turned to ON, continues to flash or remains on, have the system serviced immediately. A chime will also sound when a malfunction in the supplemental restraint system has been detected.
  • Page 13: Door Ajar

    Instrument Cluster Warning Light display Customer Action • Check your tire pressure and ensure Warning light remains on your tires are properly inflated, refer to Tire inflation pressure under Tires in the Maintenance and Specifications chapter. • After inflating tires to the manufacturers recommended air pressure the vehicle must be driven for two minutes at 32 kp/h (20 mph) to...
  • Page 14 Instrument Cluster AdvanceTrac (if equipped): Illuminates when the AdvanceTrac system is active. If the light remains on, have the system serviced immediately. Four wheel drive low (if equipped): Illuminates when four-wheel drive low is engaged. Four wheel drive high (if equipped): Illuminates when HIGH four-wheel drive high is engaged.
  • Page 15: Gauges

    Instrument Cluster GAUGES Standard instrument cluster gauges Optional instrument cluster gauges Speedometer: Indicates the current vehicle speed. 2004 Explorer (exp) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)
  • Page 16 Instrument Cluster Engine coolant temperature gauge: Indicates engine coolant temperature. At normal operating temperature, the needle will be in the normal range (between “H” and “C”). If it enters the red section, the engine is overheating. Stop the vehicle as soon as safely possible, switch off the engine and let the engine cool.
  • Page 17 Instrument Cluster Tachometer: Indicates the engine speed in revolutions per minute. Driving with your tachometer pointer continuously at the top of the scale may damage the engine. Battery voltage gauge: Indicates the battery voltage when the ignition is in the ON position. If the pointer moves and stays outside the normal operating range (as indicated by arrows), have the...
  • Page 18: Entertainment Systems

    Entertainment Systems Entertainment Systems AM/FM STEREO / SINGLE CD RADIO (IF EQUIPPED) 14 15 16 17 18 VOL - PUSH ON BASS TREB FADE DISC SEEK COMP TUNE SHUFFLE 1. Balance: Press to shift sound to the left/right speakers. 2. Fade: Press to shift sound to the front/rear speakers.
  • Page 19 Entertainment Systems To set the minute, press and hold CLK and press TUNE to decrease or increase the minutes. 5. EJ (eject): Press to eject a CD. 6. COMP (Compression): In CD mode, press to bring louder and softer levels into more comfortable listening level.
  • Page 20 Due to technical incompatibility, certain recordable and re-recordable compact discs may not function correctly when used in Ford CD players. Irregular shaped CDs, CDs with a scratch protection film attached, and CDs with homemade paper (adhesive) labels should not be inserted into the CD player. The label may peel and cause the CD to become jammed.
  • Page 21 TEXT: TEXT is only available when equipped with Satellite radio. Your Audiophile radio comes equipped with Satellite ready capability. The kit to enable Satellite reception is available through your Ford dealer. Detailed Satellite instructions are included with the dealer installed kit.
  • Page 22 Entertainment Systems Occupancy: Press DSP again to change the occupancy mode to optimize sound for ALL SEATS, DRIVERS SEAT or REAR SEATS. Press SEL to scroll through settings. 4. Mute: Press to MUTE playing media; press again to return to playing media 5.
  • Page 23 11. SAT (if equipped): Your Audiophile radio comes equipped with Satellite Ready capability. The kit to enable the Satellite reception is available through your Ford dealer. Detailed satellite instructions are included with the dealer installed kit. 12. AM/FM: Press to select AM/FM frequency band.
  • Page 24 Due to technical incompatibility, certain recordable and re-recordable compact discs may not function correctly when used in Ford CD players. Irregular shaped CDs, CDs with a scratch protection film attached, and CDs with homemade paper (adhesive) labels should not be inserted into the CD player. The label may peel and cause the CD to become jammed.
  • Page 25 Entertainment Systems For information regarding SIRIUS Satellite Radio, please call toll-free 888-539-SIRIUS (888-539-7474) or visit the SIRIUS website at www.siriusradio.com PREMIUM AM/FM STEREO/CASSETTE/SINGLE CD (IF EQUIPPED) 1. Power/volume: Press to turn ON/OFF; turn to increase/decrease volume. 2. Scan: Press to hear a brief SCAN sampling of all listenable stations, tape selections or CD tracks.
  • Page 26 Entertainment Systems incompatibility, certain recordable and re-recordable compact discs may not function correctly when used in Ford CD players. Irregular shaped CDs, CDs with a scratch protection film attached, and CDs with homemade paper (adhesive) labels should not be inserted into the CD player. The label may peel and cause the CD to become jammed.
  • Page 27 Entertainment Systems 9. Clock: Press to toggle between station mode and clock mode. Press and hold to set the clock. Press SEEK to decrease hours or SEEK to increase hours. Press TUNE to decrease minutes or TUNE to increase minutes. If your vehicle has a stand alone clock this control will not function.
  • Page 28 Entertainment Systems The Dolby noise reduction system is manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. Dolby and the double-D symbol are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. 15. Side 1–2: Works in tape mode only. Press to play reverse side of the tape.
  • Page 29 Entertainment Systems 21. Seek: Press and release SEEK for previous/next strong station, selection or track. SEEK TUNE 22. AM/FM: Press to select AM/FM1/FM2 frequency band. RADIO FREQUENCIES AM and FM frequencies are established by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Canadian Radio and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).
  • Page 30 Due to technical incompatibility, certain recordable and re-recordable compact discs may not function correctly when used in Ford CD players. Irregular shaped CDs, CDs with a scratch protection film attached, and CDs with homemade paper (adhesive) labels should not be inserted into the CD player.
  • Page 31: Climate Controls

    Climate Controls Climate Controls MANUAL HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED) 1. Temperature selection: Controls the temperature of the airflow in the vehicle. 2. Air flow selections: Controls the direction of the airflow in the vehicle. See the following for a brief description on each control.
  • Page 32: Electronic Automatic Temperature Control

    Climate Controls To allow side window defogging and demisting while warming up the vehicle cabin: 1. Select 2. Select A/C. 3. Set the temperature control to maintain comfort. 4. Set the highest fan speed. 5. Direct the outer instrument panel vents towards the side windows. To increase airflow to the outer instrument panel vents, close the vents located in the middle of the instrument panel.
  • Page 33 Climate Controls 3. Passenger side temperature control: Controls the temperature on the passenger side of the vehicle when in dual zone mode. To enter dual zone, press the passenger temperature control or DUAL. The passenger temperature will appear in the display. 4.
  • Page 34 Climate Controls 14. Driver’s side temperature control: Controls the temperature on the driver side of the vehicle. 15. Fan Speed: Used to manually enable or disable the fan speed. 16. EXT: Displays the outside air temperature. It will remain displayed until the EXT control is pressed again.
  • Page 35 Climate Controls To increase airflow to the outer instrument panel vents, close the vents located in the middle of the instrument panel. Do not place objects on top of the instrument panel as these objects may become projectiles in a collision or sudden stop. Auxiliary system (if equipped) Your vehicle may be equipped with auxiliary climate controls.
  • Page 36: Rear Window Defroster

    Climate Controls Rear auxiliary controls (if equipped): Once the front auxiliary control is set to REAR, the rear seat passengers may use the rear auxiliary controls in the overhead console to make the desired adjustments. 1. Temperature control: Determines temperature levels. If the main climate control system is cooling in MAX A/C or mode,...
  • Page 37: Lights

    Lights Lights HEADLAMP CONTROL Turns the lamps off. Turns on the parking lamps, instrument panel lamps, license plate lamps and tail lamps. Turns the headlamps on. Autolamp system The autolamp system sets the headlamps to turn on and off automatically. The autolamp control, located on the headlamp control, may be set to: •...
  • Page 38 Lights Always remember to turn on your headlamps at dusk or during inclement weather. The Daytime Running Light (DRL) System does not activate your tail lamps and generally may not provide adequate lighting during these conditions. Failure to activate your headlamps under these conditions may result in a collision.
  • Page 39 Lights Move the control to the full down position (past detent) to prevent interior lamps from illuminating when the doors are opened. AIMING THE HEADLAMPS The headlamps on your vehicle are properly aimed before leaving the assembly plant. If your vehicle is involved in an accident or if you have problems fixing the alignment of your headlamps, have them checked by a qualified service technician.
  • Page 40 Lights 5. Locate the vertical adjuster for each headlamp. Adjust the aim by turning the adjuster control either clockwise (to adjust down) or counterclockwise (to adjust up). Note: Use a 4 mm socket or box wrench to turn the vertical adjuster control.
  • Page 41 Lights Cargo/reading lamps The dome portion of the lamp or the center light can be turned on when the headlamp control is rotated fully up or when a door is opened. With the ignition in the ACC or ON position, the rear dome lamp can be turned ON or OFF by sliding the control.
  • Page 42 Lights Function Number of bulbs Trade number Rear license plate lamps Backup lamp 3156K High-mount stop lamps Fog lamp 9145 Cargo lamp 211-2 Interior overhead lamp 912 (906) Front door courtesy lamp Map lamps 168 (T10) Ashtray lamp All replacement bulbs are clear in color except where noted. To replace all instrument panel lights - see your dealer.
  • Page 43 Lights 3. Disconnect the electrical connector by pushing the center tab and pulling down. 4. Remove the old bulb by turning counterclockwise to unlock and pull it out. Handle a halogen headlamp bulb carefully and keep out of children’s reach. Grasp the bulb only by its plastic base and do not touch the glass.
  • Page 44 Lights Replacing tail/brake/turn/backup lamp bulbs 1. Turn the headlamp switch to OFF and open the liftgate. 2. Remove the two screws from the lamp assembly. 3. Remove the lamp assembly. 4. Rotate the bulb socket counterclockwise and remove it from the lamp assembly. 5.
  • Page 45 Lights Replacing high-mount brakelamp bulb 1. Remove the two screws and lamp assembly from vehicle. 2. Remove the bulb socket from the lamp assembly by depressing the snaps and pull the bulb straight out. Reverse steps to reinstall bulb(s). 2004 Explorer (exp) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)
  • Page 46: Driver Controls

    Driver Controls Driver Controls MULTI-FUNCTION LEVER Windshield wiper: Rotate the end of the control away from you to increase the speed of the wipers; rotate towards you to decrease the INT1 speed of the wipers. Speed dependent wipers: When the wiper control is on, the speed of the wipers will automatically adjust with the vehicle speed.
  • Page 47 Driver Controls Changing the wiper blades 1. Pull the wiper arm away from the vehicle. Turn the blade at an angle from the wiper arm. Push the lock pin manually to release the blade and pull the wiper blade down toward the windshield to remove it from the arm.
  • Page 48 Driver Controls CENTER CONSOLE Your vehicle may be equipped with a variety of console features. These include: • Utility compartment with cassette/compact disc storage • Auxiliary power point • Cupholders • Tissue box holder (located on underside of console lid) •...
  • Page 49 Driver Controls Rear center console features (if equipped) The rear center console incorporates the following features: • Utility compartment • Cupholders • Flip forward armrest to provide a flat load floor OVERHEAD CONSOLE (IF EQUIPPED) The appearance of your vehicle’s overhead console will vary according to your option package.
  • Page 50 Driver Controls Installing a garage door opener (if equipped) The storage compartment can be converted to accommodate a variety of aftermarket garage door openers: • Place the Velcro hook onto the side of the aftermarket transmitter opposite of the button. •...
  • Page 51: Power Windows

    Driver Controls Type B AUXILIARY POWER POINT Power point outlets are designed for accessory use only. Do not hang any type of accessories or accessory bracket from their plugs. Improper use of the power point outlet can cause damage not covered by your warranty.
  • Page 52: Mirrors

    Driver Controls Press and hold the bottom part of the rocker switch to open the window. Press and hold the top part of the rocker switch to close the window. One touch down Allows the driver’s window to open fully without holding the control down.
  • Page 53 Driver Controls Heated outside mirrors (if equipped) Both mirrors are heated automatically to remove ice, mist and fog when the rear window defrost is activated. Do not remove ice from the mirrors with a scraper or attempt to readjust the mirror glass if it is frozen in place.
  • Page 54: Speed Control

    Driver Controls POWER ADJUSTABLE FOOT PEDALS (IF EQUIPPED) The accelerator and brake pedal should only be adjusted when the vehicle is stopped and the gearshift lever is in the P (Park) position. Press and hold the rocker control to adjust accelerator and brake pedal toward you or away from you.
  • Page 55 Driver Controls 3. Press the SET + control and release it. 4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal. 5. The indicator light on the instrument cluster will turn on. COAST Note: • Vehicle speed may vary momentarily when driving up and down a steep hill.
  • Page 56 Driver Controls Increasing speed while using speed control There are two ways to set a higher speed: • Press and hold the SET + control until you get to the desired speed, then release the control. You can also use the SET + control to operate the Tap-Up COAST function.
  • Page 57 Driver Controls Turning off speed control There are two ways to turn off the speed control: • Depress the brake pedal. This will not erase your vehicle’s previously set speed. • Press the speed control OFF control. Note: When you turn off the speed control or the ignition, your speed control set speed memory is erased.
  • Page 58 Driver Controls In AM, FM1, or FM2 mode: • Press MEM to select preset stations within the selected radio band. In Tape mode: • Press MEM to select the next selection on the tape. In CD mode: • Press MEM to select the next selection on the CD.
  • Page 59 Driver Controls Press + or - to adjust fan speed. MOON ROOF (IF EQUIPPED) You can move the glass panel of the moon roof back to open or tilt up to ventilate the vehicle. To open the moon roof: The moon roof is equipped with an automatic, one-touch, express opening feature.
  • Page 60 Driver Controls Do not let children play with the moon roof. They may seriously hurt themselves. HOMELINK WIRELESS CONTROL SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED) The HomeLink Wireless Control System, located on the overhead console, provides a convenient way to replace up to three hand-held transmitters with a single built-in device.
  • Page 61 Driver Controls 1. Press and hold the two outside buttons releasing only when the red light begins to flash after 20 seconds. Do not repeat step one to program additional hand-held transmitters to the remaining two HomeLink buttons. This will erase previously programmed hand-held transmitter signals into HomeLink .
  • Page 62 Driver Controls Note: There are 30 seconds in which to initiate step eight. 8. Return to the vehicle and firmly press, hold for two seconds and release the HomeLink button. Repeat the press/hold/release sequence again, and, depending on the brand of the garage door opener (or other rolling code equipped device), repeat this sequence a third time to complete the programming.
  • Page 63 Driver Controls Operating the HomeLink Wireless Control System To operate, simply press and release the appropriate HomeLink button. Activation will now occur for the trained product (garage door, gate operator, security system, entry door lock, or home or office lighting etc.).
  • Page 64 Driver Controls ELECTRONIC COMPASS/TEMPERATURE DISPLAY (IF EQUIPPED) OUTSIDE AIR TEMPERATURE The outside temperature display is contained in the instrument cluster and displays all the time. If equipped with the DEATC climate control system, the outside temperature will be displayed there. To turn the display off or change the display from English to metric see your dealer.
  • Page 65 Driver Controls 3. Locate compass sensor mounted at base of mirror. 4. Press the button on the top of the compass module until ZONE appears in the instrument cluster display. 5. Release pressure on the button and then slowly press it down again. 6.
  • Page 66: Message Center

    Driver Controls MESSAGE CENTER (IF EQUIPPED) With the ignition in the ON position, the message center, located on your instrument cluster, displays important vehicle information through a constant monitor of vehicle systems. You may select display features on the message center for a display of status preceded by a brief indicator chime.
  • Page 67 Driver Controls Compass display The compass reading may be affected when you drive near large buildings, bridges, power lines and powerful broadcast antenna. Magnetic or metallic objects placed in, on or near the vehicle may also affect compass accuracy. Usually, when something affects the compass readings, the compass will correct itself after a few days of operating your vehicle in normal conditions.
  • Page 68 Driver Controls 6. Release the RESET AND SETUP control, then slowly press RESET down again. 7. Press the SETUP control repeatedly until the correct zone setting for your geographic location is displayed on the message center. To exit the zone setting mode press and release the RESET control. 8.
  • Page 69 Driver Controls Average fuel economy for FFV-equipped vehicles Upon refueling, your vehicle must determine the percentage of Ethanol in the fuel. For the first several minutes, or few miles of driving, the message “COMPUTING FUEL” or “– – –” will appear in the message center.
  • Page 70 Driver Controls Setup menu Press this control for the following displays: • Autolock • Easy Entry/Exit • Autolamp Delay • Oil Change • Language • Units (English/Metric) • System Check Autolocks 1. Select this function from the SETUP control for the current display mode.
  • Page 71 Driver Controls Oil Change 1. Select this function from the SETUP control for the current display mode. 2. Press the RESET control to reset oil change. Language 1. Select this function from the SETUP menu for the current language to be displayed. 2.
  • Page 72 Driver Controls The sequence of the system check report and how it appears in the message center is as follows: 1. FUEL LEVEL 2. WASHER FLUID LEVEL 3. OIL LIFE IN XX% 4. ENGINE TEMP 5. OIL PRESSURE 6. TIRE PRESSURE SYSTEM (if equipped) 7.
  • Page 73 Driver Controls Warning display Status Check engine temperature Warning returns after 10 minutes Transmission overheated Check transmission Low fuel level Check fuel cap Check charging system Low brake fluid level Low oil pressure Warning-tire very low (if equipped) ETC-engine failsafe mode Check tire pressure (if Warning returns after the ignition key equipped)
  • Page 74 Driver Controls specifications chapter. If the warning stays on or continues to come on, contact your dealer for transmission service as soon as possible. CHECK TRANSMISSION. Indicates the transmission is not operating properly. If this warning stays on, contact your dealer as soon as possible.
  • Page 75 Driver Controls TIRE PRESSURE SENSOR FAULT (if equipped). Displayed when a Tire pressure sensor is malfunctioning. If the warning stays on or continues to come on, have the system checked by your dealer. LOW WASHER FLUID LEVEL. Indicates the washer fluid reservoir is less than one quarter full.
  • Page 76 Driver Controls 2. Press and release the RESET control to display “HOLD RESET TO CONFIRM”. 3. Press and hold the RESET control to display “OIL LIFE SET TO 100%”. Your oil life is now reset. To reset the oil monitoring system to your personalized oil life %: 1.
  • Page 77 Driver Controls POSITIVE RETENTION FLOOR MAT Position the driver floor mat so that the eyelet is over the pointed end of the retention post and rotate forward to lock in. Make sure that the mat does not interfere with the operation of the accelerator or the brake pedal.
  • Page 78 Driver Controls Make sure the liftgate door and/or window are closed to prevent exhaust fumes from being drawn into the vehicle. This will also reduce the risk of passengers and cargo falling out. CARGO COVER (IF EQUIPPED) Your vehicle may be equipped with a cargo area cover that covers the luggage compartment of your vehicle.
  • Page 79 Driver Controls 5 passenger stowage: When the lid is open, it will stand up on its own. 1. To open, lift the release handle and the lid. 2. To close, lower the lid, lift the release handle and press down on the lid.
  • Page 80 Driver Controls Vehicles with a higher center of gravity such as utility and four-wheel drive vehicles handle differently than vehicles with a lower center of gravity. Utility and four-wheel drive vehicles are not designed for cornering at speeds as high as passenger cars any more than low-slung sport cars are designed to perform satisfactorily under off-road conditions.
  • Page 81: Locks And Security

    Locks and Security Locks and Security KEYS One key operates all the locks and starts the vehicle. Always carry a spare key with you in case of an emergency. Your keys are programmed to your vehicle; using a non-programmed key will not permit your vehicle to start.
  • Page 82 Locks and Security Childproof door locks • When these locks are set, the rear doors cannot be opened from the inside. • The rear doors can be opened from the outside when the doors are unlocked. The childproof locks are located on rear edge of each rear door and must be set separately for each door.
  • Page 83 Locks and Security The remote entry system allows you to lock or unlock all vehicle doors and liftgate and open the liftgate window without a key. The remote entry lock/unlock feature operates in any ignition position. The liftgate glass feature operates as long as the vehicle’s speed is less than 5 km/h (3 mph).
  • Page 84 Locks and Security 2. Press and release again within three seconds to confirm that all the doors are closed and locked. Note: The doors will lock again, the horn will chirp and the lamps flash once. Opening the liftgate window Press to unlatch the liftgate window.
  • Page 85 Locks and Security 2. Within 5 five seconds, press any control on the remote transmitter which you would like to deactivate and then press the SET control on the driver’s door panel. 3. Repeat this procedure for another remote transmitter if desired. Replacing the battery The remote entry transmitter uses one coin type three-volt lithium battery CR2032 or equivalent.
  • Page 86 Locks and Security Replacing lost remote entry transmitters If you would like to have your remote entry transmitter reprogrammed because you lost one, or would like to buy additional remote entry transmitters, you can either reprogram them yourself, or take all remote entry transmitters to your authorized dealer for reprogramming.
  • Page 87 Locks and Security Illuminated entry The interior lamps illuminate when the remote entry system is used to unlock the door(s) or sound the personal alarm. The illuminated entry system will turn off the interior lights if: • the ignition is turned to the 3 (ON) position, or •...
  • Page 88 Locks and Security 2. Within five seconds press the 1 • 2 on the keypad. 3. Enter your personal 5-digit code. Each number must be entered within five seconds of each other. 4. The doors will again lock then unlock to confirm that your personal keycode has been programmed to the module.
  • Page 89 Locks and Security To open the liftgate window, press the 5 • 6 control within five seconds. To lock all doors, liftgate and liftgate window, press the 7 • 8 and the 9 • 0 at the same time. Note: The driver’s door must be closed. You do not need to enter the keypad code first.
  • Page 90 Programming spare keys for instructions on how to program the coded key. Note: The SecuriLock passive anti-theft system is not compatible with non-Ford aftermarket remote start systems. Use of these systems may result in vehicle starting problems and a loss of security protection. 2004 Explorer (exp) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
  • Page 91 Locks and Security Note: Large metallic objects, electronic devices that are used to purchase gasoline or similar items, or a second coded key on the same key chain may cause vehicle starting issues. You need to prevent these objects from touching the coded key while starting the engine. These objects will not cause damage to the coded key, but may cause a momentary issue if they are too close to the key when starting the engine.
  • Page 92 Locks and Security Replacement keys If your keys are lost or stolen and you don’t have an extra coded key, you will need to have your vehicle towed to a dealership. The key codes need to be erased from your vehicle and new coded keys will need to be programmed.
  • Page 93 Locks and Security 5. Turn the ignition from the 1 (OFF/LOCK) position to the 3 (ON) position. Keep the ignition in the 3 (ON) position for at least three seconds, but no more than 10 seconds. 6. Turn the ignition to the 1 (OFF/LOCK) position and remove the second previously programmed coded key from the ignition.
  • Page 94: Seating And Safety Restraints

    Seating and Safety Restraints Seating and Safety Restraints SEATING Notes: Reclining the seatback can cause an occupant to slide under the seat’s safety belt, resulting in severe personal injuries in the event of a collision. Do not pile cargo higher than the seatbacks to reduce the risk of injury in a collision or sudden stop.
  • Page 95 Seating and Safety Restraints Push control to lower head restraint. Adjusting the front manual seat (if equipped) Never adjust the driver’s seat or seatback when the vehicle is moving. Always drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lap belt snug and low across the hips.
  • Page 96 Seating and Safety Restraints Adjusting the front power seat (if equipped) The control is located on the outboard side of the seat cushion. Press front to raise or lower the front portion of the seat cushion. Press rear to raise or lower the rear portion of the seat cushion.
  • Page 97 Seating and Safety Restraints Memory seat/easy entry/exit feature (if equipped) This system allows automatic positioning of the driver seat to three programmable positions. The memory seat control is located on the driver door. • To program position one, move the driver seat to the desired position using the seat controls.
  • Page 98 Seating and Safety Restraints Using the manual lumbar support For more lumbar support, turn the lumbar support control toward the front of vehicle. For less lumbar support, turn the lumbar support control toward the rear of vehicle. Heated seats (if equipped) To operate the heated seats: •...
  • Page 99 Seating and Safety Restraints 1. Pull upward on the release handle to cycle the seats to the load-floor position. 2. Rotate the seatback downward into the load floor position. 3. Press down on the top outboard area of the seatback until a click is heard.
  • Page 100 Seating and Safety Restraints Reclining the seatback can cause an occupant to slide under the seat’s safety belt, resulting in severe personal injuries in the event of a collision. Operating the 2nd row seat for E-Z Entry (if equipped) The E-Z Entry seat allows for easier entry and exit to and from the 3rd row seat.
  • Page 101 Seating and Safety Restraints To exit the 3rd row seat, pull the red access control lever up releasing the seat from the floor and rotate the seat up towards the front seat. Always latch the vehicle seat to the floor, whether the seat is occupied or empty.
  • Page 102 Seating and Safety Restraints To return the seatback to the upright position: 1. Pull the lever and lift the seatback toward the rear of the vehicle. 2. Rotate the seatback until you hear a click, locking it in the upright position.
  • Page 103 Seating and Safety Restraints 3. Push the closeout panel forward over the space between the seats. To put seat in upright position: 1. Pull back the slider panel on the seatback to release the closeout panel. 2. Pull the seat release lever located on top of the seatback while lifting the seatback into the upright position.
  • Page 104: Safety Restraints

    Seating and Safety Restraints SAFETY RESTRAINTS Personal Safety System The Personal Safety System provides an improved overall level of frontal crash protection to front seat occupants and is designed to help further reduce the risk of air bag-related injuries. The system is able to analyze different occupant conditions and crash severity before activating the appropriate safety devices to help better protect a range of occupants in a variety of frontal crash situations.
  • Page 105 Seating and Safety Restraints Driver and passenger dual-stage air bag supplemental restraints The dual-stage air bags offer the capability to tailor the level of air bag inflation energy. A lower, less forceful energy level is provided for more common, moderate-severity impacts. A higher energy level is used for the most severe impacts.
  • Page 106 Seating and Safety Restraints Determining if the Personal Safety System is operational The Personal Safety System uses a warning light in the instrument cluster or a back-up tone to indicate the condition of the system. Refer to the Warning Light section in the Instrument Cluster chapter. Routine maintenance of the Personal Safety System is not required.
  • Page 107 Seating and Safety Restraints It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts.
  • Page 108 Seating and Safety Restraints Combination lap and shoulder belts 1. Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle (the buckle closest to the direction the tongue is coming from) until you hear a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the tongue is securely fastened in the buckle. •...
  • Page 109 Seating and Safety Restraints When to use the automatic locking mode In this mode, the shoulder belt is automatically pre-locked. The belt will still retract to remove any slack in the shoulder belt. The automatic locking mode is not available on the driver safety belt. This mode should be used any time a child safety seat is installed in a passenger front or outboard rear seating position (if equipped).
  • Page 110 Seating and Safety Restraints How to disengage the automatic locking mode Unbuckle the combination lap and shoulder belt and allow it to retract completely to disengage the automatic locking mode and activate the vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking mode. After any vehicle collision, the combination lap and shoulder belt system at all passenger seating positions must be checked by a qualified technician to verify that the “automatic locking retractor”...
  • Page 111 Seating and Safety Restraints Safety belt height adjustment Your vehicle has safety belt height adjustments for the front and second row outboard seating positions. Adjust the height of the shoulder belt so the belt rests across the middle of your shoulder. To adjust the shoulder belt height, squeeze the button and slide the height adjuster up or down.
  • Page 112 Seating and Safety Restraints Conditions of operation If... Then... The driver’s safety belt is not The safety belt warning light buckled before the ignition illuminates 1-2 minutes and the switch is turned to the ON warning chime sounds 4-8 seconds. position...
  • Page 113 Seating and Safety Restraints The following are reasons most often given for not wearing safety belts: (All statistics based on U.S. data) Reasons given... Consider... “Crashes are rare events” 36700 crashes occur every day. The more we drive, the more we are exposed to “rare”...
  • Page 114 Seating and Safety Restraints Reasons given... Consider... “I have an air bag” Air bags offer greater protection when used with safety belts. Frontal airbags are not designed to inflate in rear and side crashes or rollovers. “I’d rather be thrown clear” Not a good idea.
  • Page 115 (if equipped), shoulder belt guide on seatback (if equipped), child safety seat LATCH and tether anchors, and attaching hardware, should be inspected after a collision. Ford Motor Company recommends that all safety belt assemblies in use in vehicles involved in a collision be replaced.
  • Page 116: Air Bags

    Seating and Safety Restraints belt assemblies not in use during a collision should also be inspected and replaced if either damage or improper operation is noted. Failure to inspect and if necessary replace the safety belt assembly under the above conditions could result in severe personal injuries in the event of a collision.
  • Page 117 Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the air bag supplemental restraint systems or its fuses. See your Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealer. Modifications to the front end of the vehicle, including frame,...
  • Page 118 Seating and Safety Restraints Children and air bags Children must always be properly restrained. Accident statistics suggest that children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating position. Failure to follow these instructions may increase the risk of injury in a collision.
  • Page 119 Seating and Safety Restraints The air bags inflate and deflate rapidly upon activation. After air bag deployment, it is normal to notice a smoke-like, powdery residue or smell the burnt propellant. This may consist of cornstarch, talcum powder (to lubricate the bag) or sodium compounds (e.g., baking soda) that result from the combustion process that inflates the...
  • Page 120 Seating and Safety Restraints The SRS consists of: • driver and passenger air bag modules (which include the inflators and air bags). • Safety canopy system (if equipped). Refer to Safety canopy system later in this chapter. • one or more impact and safing sensors. •...
  • Page 121 Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the Safety Canopy system, its fuses, the A, B, or C pillar trim, or the headliner on a vehicle containing a Safety Canopy . See your Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealer. All occupants of the vehicle including the driver should always...
  • Page 122 Seating and Safety Restraints How does the Safety Canopy system work? The design and development of the Safety Canopy system included recommended testing procedures that were developed by a group of automotive safety experts known as the Side Airbag Technical Working Group.
  • Page 123 Seating and Safety Restraints The Safety Canopy is mounted to the roof side-rail sheet metal, behind the headliner, above the first and second row seats. In certain lateral collisions or rollover events, the Safety Canopy system will be activated, regardless of which seats are occupied. The Safety Canopy designed to inflate between the side window area and occupants to further enhance protection provided in side impact collisions and rollover events.
  • Page 124: Child Restraints

    Seating and Safety Restraints • The readiness light will not illuminate immediately after ignition is turned on. • A series of five beeps will be heard. The tone pattern will repeat periodically until the problem and light are repaired. If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the SRS serviced at your dealership or by a qualified technician immediately.
  • Page 125 To improve the fit of both the lap and shoulder belt on children who have outgrown child safety seats, Ford Motor Company recommends use of a belt-positioning booster. Booster seats position a child so that safety belts fit better. They lift the child up so that the lap belt rests low across the hips and the knees bend comfortably.
  • Page 126 Seating and Safety Restraints Booster seats should be used until you can answer YES to ALL of these questions: • Can the child sit all the way back against the vehicle seat back with knees bent comfortably at the edge of the seat without slouching? •...
  • Page 127 Seating and Safety Restraints The shoulder belt should cross the chest, resting snugly on the center of the shoulder. The lap belt should rest low and snug across the hips, never up high across the stomach. If the booster seat slides on the vehicle seat, placing a rubberized mesh sold as shelf or carpet liner under the booster seat may improve this condition.
  • Page 128 36 kg (80 pounds) using an upper torso harness and a belt-positioning booster. Ford recommends the use of a child safety seat having a top tether strap. Install the child safety seat in a seating position with LATCH and tether anchors.
  • Page 129 Seating and Safety Restraints Installing child safety seats with combination lap and shoulder belts Air bags can kill or injure a child in a child seat. NEVER place a rear-facing child seat in front of an active air bag. If you must use a forward-facing child seat in the front seat, move the seat all the way back.
  • Page 130 Seating and Safety Restraints 3. While holding the shoulder and lap belt portions together, route the tongue through the child seat according to the child seat manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure the belt webbing is not twisted. 4. Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle (the buckle closest to the direction the tongue is coming from) for that seating position until...
  • Page 131 Seating and Safety Restraints 7. Pull the lap belt portion across the child seat toward the buckle and pull up on the shoulder belt while pushing down with your knee on the child seat. 8. Allow the safety belt to retract to remove any slack in the belt.
  • Page 132 Seating and Safety Restraints The rear seats of your vehicle are equipped with built-in tether strap anchors located behind the seats as shown below. The tether strap anchors in your vehicle are in the following positions (shown from top view): •...
  • Page 133 Seating and Safety Restraints • Behind 2nd row seat • At the rear of the cargo area 2004 Explorer (exp) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)
  • Page 134 Seating and Safety Restraints 4. Clip the tether strap to the anchor. If the tether strap is clipped incorrectly, the child safety seat may not be retained properly in the event of a collision. 5. Install the child safety seat tightly using the LATCH anchors or safety belts.
  • Page 135 Seating and Safety Restraints Your vehicle has LATCH anchors for child seat installation at the seating positions marked with the child seat symbol: Never attach two LATCH child safety seats to the same anchor. In a crash, one anchor may not be strong enough to hold two child safety seat attachments and may break, causing serious injury or death.
  • Page 136 Follow the child seat manufacturer’s instructions to properly install a child seat with LATCH attachments. Two plastic LATCH guides can be obtained at no charge from any Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. They snap onto the LATCH lower anchors in the seat to help attach a child seat with rigid attachments.
  • Page 137: Driving

    Driving Driving STARTING Positions of the ignition 1. OFF/LOCK, shuts off the engine and all accessories/locks the steering wheel, gearshift lever and allows key removal. 2. ACC, allows the electrical accessories such as the radio to operate while the engine is not running.
  • Page 138 Driving • Make sure the gearshift is in P (Park). 3. Turn the key to 3 (ON) without turning the key to 4 (START). Make sure the corresponding lights illuminate or illuminate briefly. If a light fails to illuminate, have the vehicle serviced. •...
  • Page 139 Driving Starting the engine 1. Turn the key to 3 (ON) without turning the key to 4 (START). If there is difficulty in turning the key, rotate the steering wheel until the key turns freely. This condition may occur when: •...
  • Page 140 Driving If the engine fails to start using the preceding instructions (flexible fuel vehicles only) 1. Press and hold down the accelerator 1/3 to 1/2 way to floor, then crank the engine. 2. When the engine starts, release the key, then gradually release the accelerator pedal as the engine speeds up.
  • Page 141: Brakes

    Driving BRAKES Occasional brake noise is normal. If a metal-to-metal, continuous grinding or continuous squeal sound is present, the brake linings may be worn-out and should be inspected by a qualified service technician. If the vehicle has continuous vibration or shudder in the steering wheel while braking, the vehicle should be inspected by a qualified service technician.
  • Page 142 Driving Parking brake Apply the parking brake whenever the vehicle is parked. To set the parking brake, press the parking brake pedal down until the pedal stops. The BRAKE warning lamp in the instrument cluster illuminates and remains illuminated (when the ignition is turned ON) until the parking brake is released.
  • Page 143 Driving Pull the release lever to release the brake. Driving with the parking brake on will cause the brakes to wear out quickly and reduce fuel economy. ADVANCETRAC STABILITY ENHANCEMENT SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED) The AdvanceTrac system provides a stability enhancement feature as well as a traction enhancement feature.
  • Page 144 Driving Driving conditions which may activate AdvanceTrac include: • Taking a turn too fast. • Maneuvering quickly to avoid an accident, pedestrian or obstacle. • Hitting a patch of ice. • Changing lanes on a snow-rutted road. • Entering a snow-free road from a snow-covered side street, or vice versa.
  • Page 145 Driving spin. If your vehicle seems to lose engine power while driving in deep sand or very deep snow, switching off the AdvanceTrac stability enhancement feature will restore full engine power and will enhance momentum through the obstacle. Some drivers may notice a slight movement of the brake pedal when the AdvanceTrac performs a system self-check.
  • Page 146 Driving If the power steering system breaks down (or if the engine is turned off), you can steer the vehicle manually, but it takes more effort. If the steering wanders or pulls, check for: • an improperly inflated tire • uneven tire wear •...
  • Page 147: Transmission Operation

    Driving AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OPERATION Brake-shift interlock This vehicle is equipped with a brake-shift interlock feature that prevents the gearshift lever from being moved from P (Park) when the ignition is in the ON position unless brake pedal is depressed. If you cannot move the gearshift lever out of P (Park) with ignition in the ON position and the brake pedal depressed: 1.
  • Page 148 Driving 3. Remove the access plug with a flat head screwdriver (or similar tool). 4. Insert a tool (or screwdriver) into the access hole to override the brake-shift interlock. Apply the brake and shift into Neutral. 5. Return the cover plug to the access hole. Start the vehicle. If it is necessary to use the above procedure to move the gearshift lever, it is possible that a fuse has blown or the vehicle’s brakelamps are not operating properly.
  • Page 149 Driving Driving with a 5–speed automatic transmission This vehicle is equipped with an adaptive Transmission Shift Strategy. Adaptive Shift Strategy offers the optimal transmission operation and shift quality. When the vehicle’s battery has been disconnected for any type of service or repair, the transmission will need to relearn the normal shift strategy parameters, much like having to reset your radio stations when your vehicle battery has been disconnected.
  • Page 150 Driving D (Drive) with Overdrive The normal driving position for the best fuel economy. Transmission operates in gears one through five. D (Drive) without Overdrive Overdrive can be deactivated by pressing the transmission control switch on the end of the gearshift lever.
  • Page 151 Driving Forced downshifts • Allowed in D (Overdrive) or Drive. • Depress the accelerator to the floor. • Allows transmission to select an appropriate gear. If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow, it may be rocked out by shifting from forward and reverse gears, stopping between shifts in a steady pattern.
  • Page 152 Driving Certain add-on devices such as large trailer hitches, bike or surfboard racks and any device that may block the normal detection zone of the RSS system may create false beeps. The RSS detects obstacles up to 2 meters (6 ft.) from the rear bumper with a decreased coverage area at the outer corners of the bumper, (refer to the figures for approximate...
  • Page 153 Driving If your vehicle sustains damage to the rear bumper/fascia, leaving it misaligned or bent, the sensing zone may be altered causing inaccurate measurement of obstacles or false alarms. LIMITED-SLIP AXLE (IF EQUIPPED) This axle provides added traction on slippery surfaces, particularly when one wheel is on a poor traction surface.
  • Page 154 Driving Using the Control Trac 4WD system 4X4 AUTO - Power to all four wheels; used for normal street and highway driving. 4X4 HIGH (4WD High) - Used for extra traction such as in snow or icy roads or in off-road situations. Not intended for use on dry pavement. 4X4 LOW (4WD Low) - Uses extra gearing to provide maximum power to all four wheels.
  • Page 155 Driving 4. Press the desired 4WD position. • If shifting into 4X4 LOW (4WD Low), wait for the 4X4 LOW light in the instrument cluster to turn on indicating the shift is complete. • If shifting out of 4X4 LOW (4WD Low), wait for the 4X4 LOW light in the instrument cluster to turn off indicating the shift is complete.
  • Page 156 Driving pavement only after reducing your speed. Do not turn the steering wheel too sharply while returning to the road surface. • It may be safer to stay on the apron or shoulder of the road and slow down gradually before returning to the pavement. You may lose control if you do not slow down or if you turn the steering wheel too sharply or abruptly.
  • Page 157 Driving not more. Additionally, smooth variations of the accelerator and/or brake pedal pressure should be utilized if changes in vehicle speed are called for. Avoid abrupt steering, acceleration or braking which could result in an increased risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover and/or personal injury.
  • Page 158 Driving 4WD Systems 4WD uses all four wheels to power the vehicle. This increases traction, enabling you to drive over terrain and road conditions that a conventional two-wheel drive vehicle cannot. Power is supplied to all four wheels through a transfer case. On 4WD vehicles, the transfer case allows you to select 4WD when necessary.
  • Page 159 Ford Motor Company joins the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management in encouraging you to help preserve our national forest and other public and private lands by “treading lightly.”...
  • Page 160 Driving possibly rolling over. Whenever driving on a hill, determine beforehand the route you will use. Do not drive over the crest of a hill without seeing what conditions are on the other side. Do not drive in reverse over a hill without the aid of an observer. When climbing a steep slope or hill, start in a lower gear rather than downshifting to a lower gear from a...
  • Page 161 Ford or Lincoln/Mercury dealer. If you nevertheless decide to equip your 4WD for off-road use with tires larger than what Ford Motor Company recommends, you should not use these tires for highway driving. If you use any tire/wheel combination not recommended by Ford Motor...
  • Page 162 Failure to follow tire pressure recommendations can adversely affect the way your vehicle handles. Do not exceed the Ford Motor Company recommended pressure even if it is less than the maximum pressure allowed for the tire.
  • Page 163 Driving Ford Motor Company recommends that caution be used with any vehicle equipped with a high load or device (such as ladder racks or pickup box cover). Failure to maintain your vehicle properly may void the warranty, increase your repair cost, reduce vehicle performance and operational capabilities and adversely affect driver and passenger safety.
  • Page 164 Driving Maintain steering wheel control at all times, especially in rough terrain. Since sudden changes in terrain can result in abrupt steering wheel motion, make sure you grip the steering wheel from the outside. Do not grip the spokes. Drive cautiously to avoid vehicle damage from concealed objects such as rocks and stumps.
  • Page 165 Driving If your vehicle gets stuck If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow it may be rocked out by shifting between forward and reverse gears, stopping between shifts, in a steady pattern. Press lightly on the accelerator in each gear. Do not rock the vehicle if the engine is not at normal operating temperature or damage to the transmission may occur.
  • Page 166 Driving Vehicles with a higher center of gravity such as utility and four-wheel drive vehicles handle differently than vehicles with a lower center of gravity. Utility and four-wheel drive vehicles are not designed for cornering at speeds as high as passenger cars any more than low-slung sports cars are designed to perform satisfactorily under off-road conditions.
  • Page 167 Ford Motor Company joins the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management in encouraging you to help preserve our national forest and other public and private lands by “treading lightly.”...
  • Page 168 Driving possibly rolling over. Whenever driving on a hill, determine beforehand the route you will use. Do not drive over the crest of a hill without seeing what conditions are on the other side. Do not drive in reverse over a hill without the aid of an observer. When climbing a steep slope or hill, start in a lower gear rather than downshifting to a lower gear from a...
  • Page 169 Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealer. If you nevertheless decide to equip your AWD for off-road use with tires larger than what Ford Motor Company recommends, you should not use these tires for highway driving. If you use any tire/wheel combination not recommended by Ford Motor...
  • Page 170 Failure to follow tire pressure recommendations can adversely affect the way your vehicle handles. Do not exceed the Ford Motor Company recommended pressure even if it is less than the maximum pressure allowed for the tire.
  • Page 171: Vehicle Loading

    Driving Ford Motor Company recommends that caution be used with any vehicle equipped with a high load or device (such as ladder racks or pickup box cover). Failure to maintain your vehicle properly may void the warranty, increase your repair cost, reduce vehicle performance and operational capabilities and adversely affect driver and passenger safety.
  • Page 172 Driving Payload – is the combined weight of cargo and passengers that the vehicle is carrying. The maximum payload for your vehicle can be found on the Tire Label on the driver’s door or door pillar. Look for “THE COMBINED WEIGHT OF OCCUPANTS AND CARGO SHOULD NEVER EXCEED XXX kg OR XXX lbs”...
  • Page 173 Driving Cargo Weight – includes all weight added to the Base Curb Weight, including cargo and optional equipment. When towing, trailer tongue load or king pin weight is also part of cargo weight. GAW (Gross Axle Weight) – is the total weight placed on each axle (front and rear) –...
  • Page 174 Driving GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) – is the Vehicle Curb Weight + cargo + passengers. GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) – is the maximum allowable weight of the fully loaded vehicle (including all options, equipment, passengers and cargo). The GVWR is shown on the Safety Compliance Certification Label located on the driver’s door or door pillar.
  • Page 175 Driving GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) – is the maximum allowable weight of the vehicle and the loaded trailer – including all cargo and passengers – that the vehicle can handle without risking damage. (Important: The towing vehicle’s braking system is rated for operation at GVWR, not at GCWR.
  • Page 176 Driving 3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kilograms or XXX pounds. 4. The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1,400 lbs (635 kg) and there will be five 150 lbs.
  • Page 177: Trailer Towing

    Driving TRAILER TOWING Trailer towing with your vehicle may require the use of a trailer tow option package. Trailer towing puts additional loads on your vehicle’s engine, transmission, axle, brakes, tires, and suspension. For your safety and to maximize vehicle performance, be sure to use the proper equipment while towing.
  • Page 178 Driving GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)/Trailer Weight Engine Rear axle ratio Maximum Trailer weight GCWR-lbs. range-lbs. (kg) (kg) (0-Maximum) 4.0L SOHC/4.6L* 3.55 7700 (3493) 0–3235 (0–1467) Class II towing 4.0L SOHC Class 3.73 LS 10240 (4645) 0–5755 (0–2610) III/IV towing 4.6L* Class III/IV 3.73/3.73 LS 11600 (5262)
  • Page 179 Driving 4x4/AWD GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)/Trailer Weight Engine Rear axle ratio Maximum Trailer weight GCWR-kg range-kg (lbs.) (lbs.) (0-Maximum) 4.0L SOHC Class 3.55 8000 (3629) 0–3375 (0–1531) II towing 4.6L* Class II 3.55 8000 (3629) 0–3390 (0–1538) towing 4.0L SOHC Class 3.73 LS 10000 (4536) 0–5355 (0–2429)
  • Page 180 Never connect any trailer lighting to the vehicle’s taillamp circuits, because it may damage the electrical system resulting in fire. Contact your local Ford dealership for assistance in proper trailer tow wiring installation. Additional electrical equipment may be required.
  • Page 181 Driving Driving while you tow When towing a trailer: • Turn off the speed control. The speed control may shut off automatically when you are towing on long, steep grades. • Consult your local motor vehicle speed regulations for towing a trailer. •...
  • Page 182: Recreational Towing

    • Maximum distance is 80 km (50 miles). If a distance of 80 km (50 miles) or a speed of 56 km/h (35 mph) must be exceeded, you must disconnect the driveshaft. Ford recommends the driveshaft be removed/installed only by a qualified technician. See your local dealer for driveshaft removal/installation.
  • Page 183 Driving 4x4 vehicles with electronic shift transfer case (Neutral tow kit accessory): On vehicles equipped with 4WD, an accessory is available that allows you to tow your vehicle, behind another vehicle, with all the wheels on the ground. Contact your dealer for more details. Do not tow your vehicle with all wheels on the ground unless you install the neutral tow kit as vehicle damage may occur.
  • Page 184: Roadside Emergencies

    Roadside Emergencies Roadside Emergencies GETTING ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE To fully assist you should you have a vehicle concern, Ford Motor Company offers a complimentary roadside assistance program. This program is separate from the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. The service is available: •...
  • Page 185: Fuel Pump Shut-Off Switch

    Roadside Emergencies Canadian customers who require roadside assistance, call 1–800–665–2006. If you need to arrange roadside assistance for yourself, Ford Motor Company will reimburse a reasonable amount. To obtain reimbursement information, U.S. Ford or Mercury vehicles customers call 1-800-241-3673; Lincoln vehicle customers call 1–800–521–4140.
  • Page 186: Fuses And Relays

    Roadside Emergencies The fuel pump shut-off switch is located in the passenger’s foot well, by the kick panel. Use the following procedure to reset the fuel pump shut-off switch. 1. Turn the ignition to the OFF position. 2. Check the fuel system for leaks. 3.
  • Page 187 Roadside Emergencies Note: 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. Standard fuse amperage rating and color COLOR Fuse Standard Cartridge...
  • Page 188 Roadside Emergencies Passenger compartment fuse panel The fuse panel is located below the instrument panel on the driver’s side. To remove a fuse use the fuse puller tool provided on the fuse panel box. REVIEW COPY: 2004 Explorer (exp), Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) (own2002), Market: USA English (fus)
  • Page 189 Roadside Emergencies The fuses are coded as follows: Fuse/Relay Fuse Amp Passenger Compartment Fuse Location Rating Panel Description Memory seat module, Driver power seat Moonroof Radio, Amplifier, DVD Front wiper module Flasher relay (Turn, hazards) Key-in-chime Heated mirrors Heated PCV (4.0L engine only) Not used Heated backlight relay coil, A/C clutch contact...
  • Page 190 Roadside Emergencies Fuse/Relay Fuse Amp Passenger Compartment Fuse Location Rating Panel Description Not used Cigar lighter, OBD II, Neutral tow Mode-Temperature actuator for auxiliary climate control, Trailer tow battery charge relay coil, TPMS 7.5A Reverse park aid, Brake shift interlock, IVD switch 7.5A Automatic dimming mirror, Digital transmission range sensor, Backup...
  • Page 191 Roadside Emergencies Passenger compartment fuse panel (top side) These relays are located on the reverse side of the passenger compartment fuse panel. See your dealer or a certified technician for service of this relay box. Fuse/Relay Location Description Relay 1 Flasher Relay 2 Rear defrost...
  • Page 192 Roadside Emergencies Power distribution box The power distribution box is located in the engine compartment. The power distribution box contains high-current fuses that protect your vehicle’s main electrical systems from overloads. Always disconnect the battery before servicing high current fuses. To reduce risk of electrical shock, always replace the cover to the Power Distribution Box before reconnecting the battery or refilling fluid reservoirs.
  • Page 193 Roadside Emergencies The high-current fuses are coded as follows: Fuse/Relay Fuse Amp Power Distribution Box Location Rating Description 60A** PJB #1 30A** — Not used 30A** Rear defrost 40A** Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) pump 60A** Delayed accessory, Power windows, Audio 20A** Power point #2 30A**...
  • Page 194 Roadside Emergencies Fuse/Relay Fuse Amp Power Distribution Box Location Rating Description 15A* Memory (PCM/DEATC/Cluster), Courtesy lamps 15A* Park lamps, Autolamp parklamps, Front foglamps relay coil Two-speed 4x4 (relay coils) 20A* PCM with two-speed 4x4 clutch 20A** High beam relay 30A** Trailer electric brake module 30A** Front wiper motor...
  • Page 195 Roadside Emergencies Fuse/Relay Fuse Amp Power Distribution Box Location Rating Description 10A* Right low beam 10A* Left low beam 15A* Front foglamps Brake pressure switch (non-AdvanceTrac vehicles) 20A* High beams — Horn relay — Fuel pump relay — High beam relay —...
  • Page 196 Roadside Emergencies The relays are coded as follows: Fuse/Relay Location Description Relay 14 Not used Relay 15 Trailer tow back-up lamps Relay 16 Not used Relay 17 Not used Relay 18 Not used Relay 19 Trailer tow park lamps Relay 20 Trailer tow battery charge Relay 21 Not used...
  • Page 197 Roadside Emergencies Auxiliary relay box (Vehicles equipped with 4x4) The relay box is located on the front right fender well. The relays are coded as follows: Fuse/Relay Location Description Relay 64 Two-speed 4x4 motor clockwise Relay 65 Two-speed 4x4 motor counterclockwise Relay 66 Open CHANGING THE TIRES...
  • Page 198 Ford. If the dissimilar spare tire or wheel is damaged, it should be replaced rather than repaired.
  • Page 199 Roadside Emergencies When driving with the dissimilar spare tire/wheel additional caution should be given to: • Towing a trailer • Driving vehicles equipped with a camper body • Driving vehicles with a load on the cargo rack Drive cautiously when using a dissimilar spare tire/wheel and seek service as soon as possible.
  • Page 200 Roadside Emergencies Note: Passengers should not remain in the vehicle when the vehicle is being jacked. 4. Block the wheel that is diagonally opposite of the flat tire using the wheel chock provided with your vehicle. Location of the spare tire and tools The spare tire and tools for your vehicle are stowed in the following locations: Tool...
  • Page 201 Roadside Emergencies 3. Remove the tools from the provided bag. Rotate the wrench socket out from the handle. Removing the spare tire Do not use an impact wrench on the winch drive nut. This will damage the spare tire winch. 1.
  • Page 202 Roadside Emergencies 2. Insert the lug wrench on the winch drive nut. The wrench will stop moving and forward resistance to turning will be felt when properly engaged. 3. Turn the wrench counterclockwise until the tire is lowered to the ground and the cable has slack.
  • Page 203 Roadside Emergencies Do not attempt to change a tire on the side of the vehicle close to moving traffic. Pull far enough off the road to avoid the danger of being hit when operating the jack or changing the wheel. 1.
  • Page 204 Roadside Emergencies 4. Position the jack according to the illustrated guides and turn the jack handle clockwise until the tire is a maximum of 1 inch (25 mm) off the ground. To lessen the risk of personal injury, do not put any part of your body under the vehicle while changing a tire.
  • Page 205 Roadside Emergencies 8. Remove the jack and fully tighten the lug nuts in the order shown. Refer to Wheel lug nut torque specifications later in this chapter for the proper lug nut torque specification. Stowing the flat/spare tire Note: Failure to follow spare tire stowage instructions may result in failure of cable or loss of spare tire.
  • Page 206: Jump Starting

    20 * Torque specifications are for nut and bolt threads free of dirt and rust. Use only Ford recommended replacement fasteners. When a wheel is installed, always remove any corrosion, dirt or foreign materials present on the mounting surfaces of the wheel or the surface of the front disc brake hub and rotor that contacts the wheel.
  • Page 207 Roadside Emergencies Preparing your vehicle When the battery is disconnected or a new battery is installed, the transmission must relearn its shift strategy. As a result, the transmission may have firm and/or soft shifts. This operation is considered normal and will not affect function or durability of the transmission.
  • Page 208 Roadside Emergencies 2. Connect the other end of the positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the assisting battery. 3. Connect the negative (-) cable to the negative (-) terminal of the assisting battery. REVIEW COPY: 2004 Explorer (exp), Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) (own2002), Market: USA English (fus)
  • Page 209 Roadside Emergencies 4. Make the final connection of the negative (-) cable to an exposed metal part of the stalled vehicle’s engine, away from the battery and the carburetor/fuel injection system. Do not use fuel lines, engine rocker covers or the intake manifold as grounding points. Do not connect the end of the second cable to the negative (-) terminal of the battery to be jumped.
  • Page 210 Roadside Emergencies 2. Remove the jumper cable on the negative (-) connection of the booster vehicle’s battery. 3. Remove the jumper cable from the positive (+) terminal of the booster vehicle’s battery. REVIEW COPY: 2004 Explorer (exp), Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) (own2002), Market: USA English (fus)
  • Page 211 Roadside Emergencies 4. Remove the jumper cable from the positive (+) terminal of the disabled vehicle’s battery. After the disabled vehicle has been started and the jumper cables removed, allow it to idle for several minutes so the engine computer can relearn its idle conditions.
  • Page 212: Wrecker Towing

    It is recommended that your vehicle be towed with a wheel lift or flatbed equipment. Do not tow with a slingbelt. Ford Motor Company has not approved a slingbelt towing procedure. If the vehicle’s battery is discharged, refer to Automatic transmission operation in the Driving chapter for directions on how to move the gearshift lever out of the P (Park) position, for proper towing.
  • Page 213: Customer Assistance

    GETTING THE SERVICES YOU NEED Away from home If you own a Ford or Mercury vehicle and are away from home when your vehicle needs service, or if you need more help than the dealership could provide, after following the steps described above, contact the Ford Customer Relationship Center to find an authorized dealership to help you.
  • Page 214 If you still have a complaint involving a warranty dispute, you may wish to contact the Dispute Settlement Board (U.S.). In some states (in the U.S.) you must directly notify Ford in writing before pursuing remedies under your state’s warranty laws. Ford is also allowed a final repair attempt in some states.
  • Page 215 5,000 participating Ford or Lincoln Mercury and Ford of Canada dealers. If you did not take advantage of the Ford Extended Service Plan at the time of purchasing your vehicle, you may still be eligible. Since this information is subject to change, please ask your dealer for complete details about Ford Extended Service Plan coverage options, or visit the Ford ESP website at www.ford-esp.com.
  • Page 216 • The file number assigned to your application. • The toll-free phone number of the DSB’s independent administrator. Your dealership and a Ford Motor Company representative will then be asked to submit statements. To properly review your case, the Board needs the following information: •...
  • Page 217 • The name of the dealer(s) who sold or serviced the vehicle. • A brief description of your unresolved concern. • A brief summary of the action taken by the dealer(s) and Ford Motor Company. • The names (if known) of all the people you contacted at the dealership(s).
  • Page 218 UTILIZING THE 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 219 If your vehicle must be serviced while you are traveling or living in Central or South America, the Caribbean, or the Middle East, contact the nearest Ford dealership. If the dealership cannot help you, write or call: FORD MOTOR COMPANY...
  • Page 220: Reporting Safety Defects (U.s. Only)

    National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Ford Motor Company. If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a...
  • Page 221 Customer Assistance recall and remedy campaign. 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 the Washington D.C. area) or write...
  • Page 222: Cleaning

    Cleaning Cleaning WASHING THE EXTERIOR Wash your vehicle regularly with cool or lukewarm water and a neutral Ph shampoo, such as Motorcraft Detail Wash (ZC-3–A), which is available from your dealer. • Never use strong household detergents or soap, such as dish washing or laundry liquid.
  • Page 223 Cleaning PAINT CHIPS Your dealer has touch-up paint and sprays to match your vehicle’s color. Take your color code (printed on a sticker in the driver’s door jam) to your dealer to ensure you get the correct color. • Remove particles such as bird droppings, tree sap, insect deposits, tar spots, road salt and industrial fallout before repairing paint chips.
  • Page 224 Cleaning • Cover the highlighted areas to prevent water damage when cleaning the engine. 4.0L SOHC V6 Engine 4.6L V8 Engine • Never wash or rinse the engine while it is running; water in the running engine may cause internal damage. REVIEW COPY: 2004 Explorer (exp), Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) (own2002), Market: USA English (fus)
  • Page 225 Cleaning PLASTIC (NON-PAINTED) EXTERIOR PARTS Use only approved products to clean plastic parts. These products are available from your dealer. • For routine cleaning, use Motorcraft Detail Wash (ZC-3–A). • If tar or grease spots are present, use Motorcraft Bug and Tar Remover (ZC-42).
  • Page 226 Cleaning INTERIOR TRIM • Clean the interior trim areas with a damp cloth, then dry by wiping with a dry, soft, clean cloth. • Do not use household or glass cleaners as these may damage the finish. INTERIOR For fabric, carpets, cloth seats and safety belts: •...
  • Page 227 Cleaning FORD, LINCOLN AND MERCURY CAR CARE PRODUCTS Your Ford, Lincoln or Mercury dealer has many quality products available to clean your vehicle and protect its finishes. These quality products have been specifically engineered to fulfill your automotive needs; they are custom designed to complement the style and appearance of your vehicle.
  • Page 228: Maintenance And Specifications

    Maintenance and Specifications Maintenance and Specifications SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS • Use the Scheduled Maintenance Guide to track routine service. • Use only recommended fuels, lubricants, fluids and service parts conforming to specifications. • Your dealership can provide parts and service. PRECAUTIONS WHEN SERVICING YOUR VEHICLE •...
  • Page 229 Maintenance and Specifications OPENING THE HOOD 1. Inside the vehicle, pull the hood release handle located under the bottom left corner of the instrument panel. 2. Go to the front of the vehicle and release the auxiliary latch that is located under the front center of the hood.
  • Page 230: Engine Compartment

    Maintenance and Specifications IDENTIFYING COMPONENTS IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT 4.0L SOHC V6 engine 1. Engine coolant reservoir 2. Engine oil filler cap 3. Power steering fluid reservoir 4. Brake fluid reservoir 5. Power distribution box 6. Battery 7. Engine oil dipstick 8.
  • Page 231 Maintenance and Specifications 4.6L V8 engine 1. Engine coolant reservoir 2. Engine oil dipstick 3. Brake fluid reservoir 4. Power distribution box 5. Battery 6. Power steering fluid reservoir 7. Engine oil filler cap 8. Air filter assembly 9. Windshield washer fluid reservoir REVIEW COPY: 2004 Explorer (exp), Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) (own2002), Market: USA English (fus)
  • Page 232 Add fluid to fill the reservoir if the level is low. In very cold weather, do not fill the reservoir completely. Only use a washer fluid that meets Ford specification WSB-M8B16–A2. Refer to Lubricant specifications in the Capacities and specifications chapter.
  • Page 233: Engine Oil

    Maintenance and Specifications ENGINE OIL Checking the engine oil Refer to the scheduled maintenance guide for the appropriate intervals for checking the engine oil. 1. Make sure the vehicle is on level ground. 2. Turn the engine off and wait a few minutes for the oil to drain into the oil pan.
  • Page 234 Maintenance and Specifications • 4.6L V8 engine 6. Wipe the indicator clean. Insert the indicator fully, then remove it again. • If the oil level is between the MIN and MAX marks, the oil level is acceptable, DO NOT ADD OIL. •...
  • Page 235 Maintenance and Specifications • 4.6L V8 engine • Oil levels above the MAX mark may cause engine damage. Some oil must be removed from the engine by a service technician. 7. Put the indicator back in and ensure it is fully seated. Adding engine oil 1.
  • Page 236 Only use oils “Certified For Gasoline Engines” by the American Petroleum Institute (API). To protect your engine’s warranty use Motorcraft SAE 5W-20 or an equivalent 5W-20 oil meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C153-H. SAE 5W-20 oil provides optimum fuel economy and durability performance meeting all requirements for your vehicle’s engine.
  • Page 237: Battery

    Only use oils “Certified For Gasoline Engines” by the American Petroleum Institute (API). To protect your engine’s warranty use Motorcraft SAE 5W-30 or an equivalent 5W-30 oil meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C205-A. Do not use supplemental engine oil additives, cleaners or other engine treatments.
  • Page 238 Maintenance and Specifications If your battery has a cover/shield, make sure it is reinstalled after the battery has been cleaned or replaced. For longer, trouble-free operation, keep the top of the battery clean and dry. Also, make certain the battery cables are always tightly fastened to the battery terminals.
  • Page 239 Maintenance and Specifications 3. Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature. 4. Allow the engine to idle for at least one minute. 5. Turn the A/C on and allow the engine to idle for at least one minute. 6.
  • Page 240 Maintenance and Specifications “COLD FILL RANGE” level in the coolant reservoir. If the level falls below, add coolant per the instructions in the Adding engine coolant section. Your vehicle was factory-filled with a 50/50 engine coolant and water concentration. If the concentration of coolant falls below 40% or above 60%, the engine parts could become damaged or not work properly.
  • Page 241 • Add Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant (yellow-colored), VC-7–A (U.S., except CA and OR), VC-7–B (CA and OR only), meeting Ford Specification WSS-M97B51–A1. Note: Use of Motorcraft Cooling System Stop Leak Pellets, VC-6, may darken the color of Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant from yellow to golden tan.
  • Page 242 Maintenance and Specifications • Do not use alcohol, methanol, brine or any engine coolants mixed with alcohol or methanol antifreeze (coolant). Alcohol and other liquids can cause engine damage from overheating or freezing. • Do not add extra inhibitors or additives to the coolant. These can be harmful and compromise the corrosion protection of the engine coolant.
  • Page 243 Recycled engine coolant Ford Motor Company does NOT recommend the use of recycled engine coolant in vehicles originally equipped with Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant since a Ford-approved recycling process is not yet available.
  • Page 244 Maintenance and Specifications How fail-safe cooling works If the engine begins to overheat: • The engine coolant temperature gauge will move to the red (hot) area. • HIGH TEMP LOW OIL (if equipped) or CHECK GAUGE (if equipped) will illuminate. •...
  • Page 245 Maintenance and Specifications 5. Restart the engine and take your vehicle to a service facility. Driving the vehicle without repairing the engine problem increases the chance of engine damage. Take your vehicle to a service facility as soon as possible. WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT AUTOMOTIVE FUELS Important safety precautions Do not overfill the fuel tank.
  • Page 246 Maintenance and Specifications • Avoid inhaling fuel vapors. Inhaling too much fuel vapor of any kind can lead to eye and respiratory tract irritation. In severe cases, excessive or prolonged breathing of fuel vapor can cause serious illness and permanent injury. •...
  • Page 247 Maintenance and Specifications become brittle and crack, especially when mixed with gasoline. Special materials and procedures have been developed for flexible fuel vehicles and the dispensers used by ethanol fuel providers. Flexible fuel components and standard unleaded gasoline fuel components are not interchangeable. If your vehicle is not serviced in accordance with flexible fuel vehicles procedures, damage may occur and your warranty may be invalidated.
  • Page 248 Maintenance and Specifications Your vehicle was not designed to use fuel or fuel additives with metallic compounds, including manganese-based additives. Studies indicate that these additives can cause your vehicle’s emission control system to deteriorate more rapidly. In Canada, many fuels contain critical fuel system components.
  • Page 249 10 to 30 seconds. If the problems persist below this temperature, see your dealer or a qualified service technician. Cleaner air Ford endorses the use of reformulated “cleaner-burning” gasolines to improve air quality. Running out of fuel Avoid running out of fuel because this situation may have an adverse affect on powertrain components.
  • Page 250 The customer warranty may be void for any damage to the fuel tank or fuel system if the correct genuine Ford or Motorcraft fuel filler cap is not used. The fuel system may be under pressure. If the fuel filler cap is venting vapor or if you hear a hissing sound, wait until it stops before completely removing the fuel filler cap.
  • Page 251 Maintenance and Specifications possible. Fuel expense, frequency of fill-ups or fuel gauge readings are NOT accurate as a measure of fuel economy. We do not recommend taking fuel economy measurements during the first 1,600 km (1,000 miles) of driving (engine break-in period). You will get a more accurate measurement after 3,000 km–5,000 km (2,000 miles-3,000 miles).
  • Page 252 Maintenance and Specifications Calculating fuel economy 1. Fill the fuel tank completely and record the initial odometer reading (in kilometers or miles). 2. Each time you fill the tank, record the amount of fuel added (in liters or gallons). 3. After at least three to five tank fill-ups, fill the fuel tank and record the current odometer reading.
  • Page 253 Maintenance and Specifications • You may want to turn off the speed control in hilly terrain if unnecessary shifting between third and fourth gear occurs. Unnecessary shifting of this type could result in reduced fuel economy. • Warming up a vehicle on cold mornings is not required and may reduce fuel economy.
  • Page 254 Guide are essential to the life and performance of your vehicle and to its emissions system. If other than Ford, Motorcraft or Ford-authorized parts are used for maintenance replacements or for service of components affecting emission control, such non-Ford parts should be equivalent to genuine Ford Motor Company parts in performance and durability.
  • Page 255 Maintenance and Specifications Illumination of the “Check Engine” light, charging system warning light or the temperature warning light, fluid leaks, strange odors, smoke or loss of engine power, could indicate that the emission control system is not working properly. Exhaust leaks may result in entry of harmful and potentially lethal fumes into the passenger compartment.
  • Page 256 Maintenance and Specifications Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing In some localities, it may be a legal requirement to pass an I/M test of the on-board diagnostics system. If your Check engine/Service engine soon light is on, refer to the description in the Warning lights and chimes section of the Instrument Cluster chapter.
  • Page 257 Maintenance and Specifications • 4.6L V8 engine 1. Start the engine and let it run until it reaches normal operating temperature (the engine coolant temperature gauge indicator will be near the center of the normal area between H and C). 2.
  • Page 258 Maintenance and Specifications TRANSMISSION FLUID Checking automatic transmission fluid The automatic transmission does not have a transmission fluid dipstick. Refer to your Scheduled Maintenance Guide for scheduled intervals for fluid checks and changes. Your transmission does not consume fluid. However, the fluid level should be checked if the transmission is not working properly, (i.e., if the transmission slips or shifts slowly) or if you notice some sign of fluid leakage.
  • Page 259 Use only fluid that meets Ford specifications. Refer to Lubricant specifications in this chapter. DRIVELINE UNIVERSAL JOINT AND SLIP YOKE Your vehicle may be equipped with universal joints that require lubrication.
  • Page 260 Maintenance and Specifications Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one-half (1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100.
  • Page 261 Maintenance and Specifications Glossary of tire terminology • Tire label: A label showing the OE (Original Equipment) tire sizes, recommended inflation pressure and the maximum weight the vehicle can carry. • Tire Identification Number (TIN): A number on the sidewall of each tire providing information about the tire brand and manufacturing plant, tire size and date of manufacturer.
  • Page 262 Maintenance and Specifications Information on “P” type tires P215/65R15 95H is an example of a tire size, load index and speed rating. The definitions of these items are listed below. (Note that the tire size, load index and speed rating for your vehicle may be different than this example.) 1.
  • Page 263 Maintenance and Specifications Note: You may not find this information on all tires because it is not required by federal law. Letter rating Speed rating - mph (km/h) 99 mph (159 km/h) 106 mph (171 km/h) 112 mph (180 km/h) 118 mph (190 km/h) 124 mph (200 km/h) 130 mph (210 km/h)
  • Page 264 Maintenance and Specifications 12. Treadwear, Traction and Temperature Grades • Treadwear: The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one-half (1 ⁄...
  • Page 265 Maintenance and Specifications Additional information contained on the tire sidewall for “LT” type tires “LT” type tires have some additional information than those of “P” type tires; these differences are described below: 1. LT: Indicates a tire, designated by the Tire and Rim Association (T&RA), that is intended for service on light trucks.
  • Page 266 Maintenance and Specifications Information on “T” type tires T145/80D16 is an example of a tire size. Note: The temporary tire size for your vehicle may be different than this example. 1. T: Indicates a type of tire, designated by the Tire and Rim Association (T&RA), that is intended for temporary service on cars, SUVs, minivans and light...
  • Page 267 You are strongly urged to buy a reliable tire pressure gauge, as automatic service station gauges may be inaccurate. Ford recommends the use of a digital or dial type tire pressure gauge rather than a stick type tire pressure gauge.
  • Page 268 Wheel misalignment in the front or the rear can cause uneven and rapid treadwear of your tires and should be corrected by a qualified technician at a Ford or Lincoln/Mercury dealer. Front wheel drive (FWD) vehicles, and those with an independent rear suspension require alignment of all four wheels.
  • Page 269 Maintenance and Specifications • Front Wheel Drive (FWD) vehicles (front tires at top of diagram) • Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) vehicles/Four Wheel Drive (4WD) vehicles (front tires at top of diagram) Sometimes irregular tire wear can be corrected by rotating the tires. REVIEW COPY: 2004 Explorer (exp), Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) (own2002), Market: USA English (fus)
  • Page 270 Maintenance and Specifications Note: If your tires show uneven wear ask a qualified technician at a Ford or Lincoln/Mercury dealership to check for and correct any wheel misalignment, tire imbalance or mechanical problem involved before tire rotation. Note: Your vehicle may be equipped with a dissimilar spare tire/wheel. A dissimilar spare tire/wheel is defined as a spare tire and/or wheel that is different in brand, size or appearance from the road tires and wheels.
  • Page 271 Only use replacement tires and wheels that are the same size and type (such as P-metric versus LT-metric or all-season versus all-terrain) as those originally provided by Ford. Use of any tire or wheel not recommended by Ford can affect the safety and performance of your vehicle, which could result in an increased risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.
  • Page 272: Tire Information

    Maintenance and Specifications Never spin the tires in excess of the 35 mph (55 km/h) point indicated on the speedometer. Highway hazards No matter how carefully you drive there’s always the possibility that you may eventually have a flat tire on the highway. Drive slowly to the closest safe area out of traffic.
  • Page 273 Maintenance and Specifications temperature. Contained air temperature is dependent upon several factors such as rate of tire rotation, tire deflection, amount of braking, etc. In similar manner, the tire pressure will decrease if the contained air temperature decreases. For example, if the vehicle is stationary over night with the outside temperature significantly lower than the daytime temperature, the tire pressure may decrease approximately 3 psi (20.7 kPa) for a drop of 30°...
  • Page 274: Changing Tires

    The tires on your vehicle have all-weather treads to provide traction in rain and snow. However, in some climates, using snow tires or traction devices may be necessary. Ford offers tire cables as a Ford approved accessory and recommends use of these or SAE class “S” tire cables. See your dealer or qualified service technician for more information on tire cables for your vehicle.
  • Page 275: Part Numbers

    Maintenance and Specifications • Do not exceed 48 km/h (30 mph) with tire cables or chains on your vehicle. Consult your dealer for information on other Ford approved methods of traction control. MOTORCRAFT PART NUMBERS Component 4.0L SOHC V6 engine 4.6L V8 engine...
  • Page 276: Refill Capacities

    Maintenance and Specifications REFILL CAPACITIES Fluid Ford Part Name Application Capacity Brake fluid Motorcraft High Fill to line on Performance reservoir DOT 3 Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid Engine oil Motorcraft SAE 4.0L 4.7L (including filter 5W-30 Super (5.0 quarts) change)
  • Page 277 Maintenance and Specifications Fluid Ford Part Name Application Capacity Engine coolant Motorcraft 4.0L SOHC V6 15.4L Premium Gold engine without (16.3 quarts) Engine Coolant auxiliary climate (yellow-colored) control 4.0L SOHC V6 17.2L engine with (18.2 quarts) auxiliary climate control 4.6L V8 engine 17.6L...
  • Page 278: Lubricant Specifications

    Modifier XL-7 or equivalent to the rear axle whenever the axle has been serviced. Use of synthetic or synthetic blend motor oil is not mandatory. Engine oil need only meet the requirements of Ford specification WSS-M2C153–H and the API Certification mark. LUBRICANT SPECIFICATIONS...
  • Page 279 Maintenance and Specifications Ford Part Ford Part Ford Item Name or Number Specification equivalent Motorcraft SAE WSS-M2C205-A 5W30 Super with API 4.0L Engine oil XO-5W30-QSP Premium Motor Certification Mark Motorcraft SAE 5W20 Premium Synthetic Blend XO -5W20-QSP WSS-M2C153–H Motor Oil (US)
  • Page 280 Maintenance and Specifications Ford Part Ford Part Ford Item Name or Number Specification equivalent Motorcraft Premium Windshield Windshield ZC—32–A WSB-M8B16–A2 washer fluid Washer Concentrate Ensure the correct automatic transmission fluid is used. MERCON and MERCON V are not interchangeable. DO NOT mix MERCON and MERCON V.
  • Page 281 Maintenance and Specifications REVIEW COPY: 2004 Explorer (exp), Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) (own2002), Market: USA English (fus)
  • Page 282 Maintenance and Specifications IDENTIFYING YOUR VEHICLE Certification label The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Regulations require that a Certification label be affixed to a vehicle and prescribe where the Certification label may be located. The Certification label is located on the front door latch pillar on the driver’s side.
  • Page 283 Maintenance and Specifications 7. Assembly plant 8. Production sequence number Engine number The engine number (the last eight numbers of the vehicle identification number) is stamped on the engine block, transmission, frame and transfer case (if equipped). Transmission/Transaxle code designations You can find a transmission/transaxle code on the vehicle certification label which is located on the door pillar.
  • Page 284 Maintenance and Specifications Code Transmission Description Automatic transmission Automatic 4–speed overdrive (CD4E) Automatic 4–speed overdrive (4R70W) Automatic 4–speed overdrive (4R44E) Automatic 4–speed overdrive (4R100) Automatic 5–speed overdrive (5R55E) Electric One speed electric Automatic 5–speed overdrive (5R44E) Automatic 5–speed overdrive (5R55S) Passenger car application: Code Transmission/Transaxle Description...
  • Page 285: Accessories

    In addition, each accessory is made from high quality materials and meets or exceeds Ford’s rigorous engineering and safety specifications. Ford Motor Company will repair or...
  • Page 286 Accessories Step Bars Wheels Interior style Electrochromatic compass/temperature interior mirrors Floor mats Interior trim kits Leather wrapped steering wheels Scuff plates Lifestyle Bike racks Cargo organization and management Engine block heaters and blankets Rear seat entertainment systems Towing mirrors Trailer hitches, wiring harnesses and accessories Peace of mind Airbag anti-theft locks First aid and safety kits...
  • Page 287 Accessories • The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Canadian Radio Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) regulate the use of mobile communications systems — such as two-way radios, telephones and theft alarms - that are equipped with radio transmitters. Any such equipment installed in your vehicle should comply with FCC or CRTC regulations and should be installed only by a qualified service technician.
  • Page 288: Index

    Index Index acid, treating emergencies ..237 jumping a disabled battery ..206 Accessory delay ......52 maintenance-free ....237 replacement, specifications ...275 AdvanceTrac ......143 servicing ........237 Air bag supplemental BeltMinder .........112 restraint system ....116, 121 and child safety seats ....118 Brakes ........141 description ......116, 121 anti-lock ........141 disposal ........124 anti-lock brake system (ABS)
  • Page 289 Dual automatic temperature specifications ....278, 280 control (DATC) ......32 Cruise control (see Speed control) ....54 Customer Assistance ....184 Electronic message center ..66 Ford accessories for your Emergencies, roadside vehicle ........227 jump-starting ......206 Ford Extended Service Plan ..........214 Emergency Flashers ....185 Getting assistance outside Emission control system ..254...
  • Page 290 Index lubrication improving fuel economy ..250 specifications ....278, 280 octane rating ....248, 280 refill capacities ......276 quality ........248 service points ....230–231 running out of fuel ....249 starting after a collision ..185 safety information relating to Engine block heater ....140 automotive fuels .....245 Engine oil ........233 Fuel - flex fuel vehicle checking and adding ....233...
  • Page 291 Index Heating daytime running light ....37 heating and air conditioning fog lamps ........37 system .........31–32 high beams ........38 instrument panel, dimming ..38 HomeLink universal interior lamps ......40 transceiver (see Garage door opener) ........63 Liftgate ........77, 84 Homelink wireless control Lights, warning and indicator ..10 anti-lock brakes (ABS) ..141 system ..........60 Hood ..........229...
  • Page 292 Index Safety belts (see Safety restraints) ....104, 106–111 Parking brake ......142 Safety Canopy ....121–122 Parts (see Motorcraft parts) ..275 Safety defects, reporting ..220 Pedals (see Power adjustable Safety restraints ..104, 106–111 foot pedals) .........54 belt minder ......112 Power adjustable foot pedals ..54 extension assembly ....111 Power distribution box for adults ......107–110...
  • Page 293 Index Steering wheel Transfer case fluid checking ......258 controls ........57 tilting .........47 Transmission ......147 brake-shift interlock (BSI) ..147 fluid, checking and adding (automatic) ......258 fluid, refill capacities ....276 Tilt steering wheel ......47 lubricant specifications ..278, 280 Tire Pressure Monitoring Trunk ...........84 System (TPMS) Turn signal ........40 Driving ........158...

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