Ford Thunderbird 2004 Owner's Manual

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Electronic automatic temperature control
Mirrors
Locks
2004 Thunderbird (tbr)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA English (fus)
Table of Contents
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27
38
61
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Summary of Contents for Ford Thunderbird 2004

  • Page 1 Table of Contents Table of Contents Introduction Instrument Cluster Warning and control lights Gauges Entertainment Systems AM/FM stereo with CD Climate Controls Electronic automatic temperature control Rear window defroster Lights Headlamps Turn signal control Bulb replacement Driver Controls Windshield wiper/washer control Steering wheel adjustment Power windows Mirrors...
  • 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 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 © 2003 Ford Motor Company...
  • Page 4: Introduction

    The more you know and understand about your vehicle the greater the safety and pleasure you will derive from driving it. For more information on Ford Motor Company and its products visit the following website: • In the United States: www.ford.com •...
  • Page 5 Introduction SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION Warning symbols in this guide How can you reduce the risk of personal injury and prevent possible damage to others, your vehicle and its equipment? In this guide, answers to such questions are contained in comments highlighted by the warning triangle symbol.
  • Page 6 This information may be stored during regular operation or in a crash or near crash event. This stored information may be read out and used by: • Ford Motor Company. • service and repair facilities. • law enforcement or government agencies.
  • Page 7 Introduction Special instructions For your added safety, your vehicle is fitted with sophisticated electronic controls. Please read the section Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) in the Seating and safety restraints chapter. Failure to follow the specific warnings and instructions could result in personal injury. Front seat mounted rear facing child or infant seats should NEVER be used in front of a passenger side air bag unless the air bag can be and is turned OFF.
  • 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 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 Brake system warning light: To BRAKE confirm the brake system warning light is functional, it will momentarily illuminate when the ignition is turned to the ON position when the engine is not running, or in a position between ON and START, or by applying the parking brake when the ignition is turned to the ON position.
  • Page 12 Instrument Cluster Engine oil pressure: Illuminates when the oil pressure falls below the normal range, refer to Engine oil in the Maintenance and specifications chapter. Engine coolant temperature: Illuminates when the engine coolant temperature is high. Stop the vehicle as soon as possible, switch off the engine and let cool. Refer to Engine coolant in the Maintenance and specifications chapter.
  • Page 13 Instrument Cluster Low washer fluid: Illuminates when the windshield washer fluid is low. Bulb warning: A text message indicates when one of the exterior front turn lamps or rear brake/turn/tail lamps bulb has burned out. Depress the RESET control to return to the Trip odometer display.
  • Page 14: Gauges

    Instrument Cluster GAUGES Speedometer: Indicates the current vehicle speed. 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 15 Instrument Cluster Odometer: Registers the total kilometers (miles) of the vehicle. Trip odometer: Registers the kilometers (miles) of individual journeys. To reset, depress the RESET control. To switch the display from Trip A to the Trip B, depress the A/B control. Tachometer: Indicates the engine speed in revolutions per minute.
  • Page 16: Entertainment Systems

    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 17 Entertainment Systems 4. Mute: Press to MUTE playing media; press again to return to playing media 5. Eject: Press to eject a CD. Press and hold to eject all loaded discs. 6. Bass: Press BASS; then press to decrease/increase the bass output. Treble: Press TREB;...
  • Page 18 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 19 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 20 CAT: CAT 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 21 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 22: Climate Controls

    Climate Controls Climate Controls DUAL ELECTRONIC AUTOMATIC TEMPERATURE CONTROL (DEATC) SYSTEM 1. A/C control: Press to turn on and manually control the air conditioning. Press again to disengage. Press AUTO for the system to automatically control the temperature. 2. Recirculation control: Press to engage/disengage.
  • Page 23 Climate Controls 5. DUAL zone selector: Press to DUAL toggle the system between single zone and dual zone control. (Defrost): Distributes outside air through the windshield defroster ducts and the demister outlets. Can be used to clear ice or fog from the windshield.
  • Page 24 Climate Controls 16. EXT control: Press to display the outside air temperature. Press again to return to interior temperature. Exterior readings are most accurate when the vehicle is moving. 17. Temperature conversion: Press to toggle between Fahrenheit and Celsius temperature on the DEATC display only.
  • Page 25: Rear Window Defroster

    Climate Controls • Do not place items over the climate temperature sensor grid. This may cause improper operation of the system. To aid in side window defogging/demisting in cold weather: 1. Select 2. Ensure that recirculation is disengaged. 3. Set the temperature control to full heat. 4.
  • Page 26 • Protects the climate control components from particle deposits The filter is located just in front of the windshield under the cowl grille on the passenger side of the vehicle. For more information, or to replace the filter, see your Ford, Lincoln or Mercury Dealer. 2004 Thunderbird (tbr)
  • Page 27: Lights

    Lights Lights MASTER LIGHTING SWITCH Turns the lamps off. Turns on the parking lamps, instrument panel lamps, license plate lamps and tail lamps. Turns the headlamps on. Note: The instrument panel lamps will only turn on if the autolamp control has determined it is night. Autolamp control The autolamp system provides light sensitive automatic on-off control of...
  • Page 28 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 29 Lights Note: The panel dimmer control is only active when the autolamp has determined that it is night. The dome light will only go on when the dome light switch is in the delay or ON position. HEADLAMP VERTICAL AIM ADJUSTMENT 1.
  • Page 30: Turn Signal Control

    Lights TURN SIGNAL CONTROL • Push down to activate the left turn signal. • Push up to activate the right turn signal. INTERIOR LAMPS Reading and dome lamps The reading lamps are located in the header trim panel. Press the control next to the reading lamp to activate The reading lamp assembly also contains an overhead dome lamp.
  • Page 31: Bulb Replacement

    Lights Using the right bulbs Replacement bulbs are specified in the chart below. Headlamp bulbs must be marked with an authorized “D.O.T.” for North America and an “E” for Europe to assure lamp performance, light brightness, pattern and safe visibility. The correct bulbs will not damage the lamp assembly or void the lamp assembly warranty and will provide quality bulb burn time.
  • Page 32 Lights Replacing headlamp bulbs To remove the headlamp bulb: 1. Make sure headlamp switch is in OFF position, then open the hood. 2. Pry up the two retainer pins to release the headlamp assembly from the vehicle. 3. Remove the nut from the back of the headlamp and pull headlamp forward.
  • Page 33 Lights 6. Without turning, remove the old bulb from the lamp assembly by pulling it straight out of the lamp assembly. To install the new bulb: 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 34 Lights Replacing front parking lamp/turn signal bulbs 1. Make sure headlamp switch is in OFF position, then open the hood. 2. Pry up the two retainer pins to release the headlamp assembly from the vehicle. 3. Remove the nut from the back of the headlamp and pull headlamp forward.
  • Page 35 Lights Replacing front/rear side marker bulbs 1. Make sure the headlamp switch is in the OFF position and then remove the screw and carefully pull the lamp assembly out from the bumper. 2. Rotate bulb socket counterclockwise and remove from lamp assembly.
  • Page 36 Lights Replacing tail/brake/turn/backup lamp bulbs The tail/brake//turn/backup bulbs are located in the tail lamp assembly, one just below the other. Follow the same steps to replace either bulb: Prior to pulling the carpet away, in step 1, the trunk trim scuff plate must be removed.
  • Page 37 Lights 4. Rotate the bulb socket counterclockwise and remove from lamp assembly. 5. Pull the bulb straight out of the socket and push in the new bulb. 6. To complete installation, follow the removal procedure in reverse order. Replacing license plate lamp bulbs 1.
  • Page 38: 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 speed of the wipers. Windshield washer: Push the end of the stalk: •...
  • Page 39 Do not use the auxiliary power point as a cigarette lighter. The use of non-Ford approved electrical accessories could cause damage not covered by your warranty. Power outlets are designed for accessory plugs only. Do not hang any type of accessory or accessory bracket from the plug.
  • Page 40: Power Windows

    Driver Controls POWER WINDOWS When closing the power windows, you should verify they are free of obstructions and ensure that children and/or pets are not in the proximity of the window openings. 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.
  • Page 41: Mirrors

    Driver Controls closed. To re-calibrate the window, press the up switch to raise the window until it completes its travel and hold the switch down for 2 seconds. Another possible effect of lost calibration is that the feature may not lower the window. To re-calibrate the window in this case, lower the window until it completes its travel and hold the switch down for 2 seconds.
  • Page 42: Speed Control

    Driver Controls You can render the switch inoperable by locking the button with your master key. In the event of battery failure, you can open the trunk by using your master key on the key cylinder located behind the driver’s seat. SPEED CONTROL With speed control set, you can maintain a speed of 48 km/h (30 mph) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator pedal.
  • Page 43 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. Note: • Vehicle speed may vary momentarily when driving up and down a steep hill.
  • Page 44 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 function.
  • Page 45 Driver Controls Turning off speed control There are two ways to turn off the speed control: • Depress the brake pedal or press CANCEL. This will not erase your vehicle’s previously set speed. • Press the speed control OFF control. Note: When you turn off the speed CANCEL control or the ignition, your speed...
  • Page 46 Driver Controls In any mode: • Press VOL + or − to adjust MUTE volume. MEDIA Press the PHONE/MUTE control to mute the playing media. Press again MUTE to return to the playing media. MEDIA HOMELINK WIRELESS CONTROL SYSTEM The HomeLink Wireless Control System, located on the header trim, provides a convenient way to replace up to three hand-held transmitters with a single built-in device.
  • Page 47 Driver Controls Retain the original transmitter for use in other vehicles as well as for future programming procedures (i.e. new HomeLink equipped vehicle purchase). It is also suggested that upon the sale of the vehicle, the programmed Homelink buttons be erased for security purposes, refer to Programming in this section.
  • Page 48 Driver Controls 5. Press and hold the just-trained HomeLink button and observe the amber light. If the light is a constant amber, programming is complete and your device should activate when the HomeLink button is pressed and released. Note: To program the remaining two HomeLink buttons, begin with step 2 in the “Programming”...
  • Page 49 Driver Controls • Continue to press and hold the HomeLink button (note step 3 in the “Programming” section) while you press and release — every two seconds (“cycle”) your hand-held transmitter until the frequency signal has been accepted by the HomeLink . The amber indicator light will flash slowly and then rapidly after HomeLink accepts the radio frequency signal.
  • Page 50 Driver Controls 2. The amber indicator light will begin to flash after 20 seconds. Without releasing the HomeLink button, follow step 2 in the “Programming” section. For questions or comments, contact HomeLink at www.homelink.com or 1–800–355–3515. CONVERTIBLE Articles stored in the convertible top stowage compartment may break the rear glass window when the top is lowered.
  • Page 51 Driver Controls 4. Push the convertible top switch on the instrument panel and hold until the top is completely stored in the stowage compartment. 5. Push the handle back into the lock position. Installation of the tonneau cover (if equipped) Be sure the cover is tucked into the quarter panel and upper back panel and all snaps are fastened before driving.
  • Page 52 Driver Controls 3. To remove unfasten the snaps. 4. Pull forward and lift off. Raising the convertible top To raise the convertible top: 1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop. Put the vehicle in the P (Park) position. The convertible top will operate with the key in the RUN position, RUN/ACC position or in the accessory delay mode.
  • Page 53 Driver Controls 5. Press the button on the convertible top handle and pull the handle down to open both top clamps before the top meets the windshield header. 6. Resume pushing the convertible top switch until it has reached the fully closed position flush to the header.
  • Page 54 Convertible top and padded molding care To avoid damage to the cloth top and moldings, use only an approved Ford cleaner, or equivalent. Do not use abrasive material or cleaners. Hot waxes applied by automatic car washes can affect the cleanability of cloth material.
  • Page 55 Driver Controls 2. Ensure that the removable top levers are rotated rearward to the fully open position. Lock the wheels on the storage cart, and with the help of at least another person remove the top from the cart. Once per year, apply a small amount of silicone lubricant, F5AZ–19553–AA, to the receivers as shown.
  • Page 56 Driver Controls 6. Partially turn, 1/2 turn forward, the levers of the top (located in the rear on the left and right-hand side of the vehicle). 7. Using the mounting key, loosely screw in the two screws at the front of the top by two or three turns.
  • Page 57 Driver Controls Removing the top It is recommended that you prepare the storage rack before removing the top. See Removable top storage rack in this section. 1. Take the mounting key from the bag located in the trunk. 2. Using the mounting key, loosen the two screws at the front of the top.
  • Page 58 Driver Controls Removable top storage rack It is recommended that you prepare the storage rack prior to removing the top from the vehicle. 1. Remove the storage rack from the package and place the bumper end of the uprights on the floor with the wheels facing you. 2.
  • Page 59 Driver Controls 8. Place the removable top on the storage rack. 9. Make sure the rear edge of the removable top rests on the rubber bumpers of the rack legs. This prevents damage to the painted edge and the weather-strips. To unlock the wheels, pull up on the lower portion of the plastic tab located on the tip of each wheel.
  • Page 60 Driver Controls CELL PHONE USE The use of Mobile Communications Equipment has become increasingly important in the conduct of business and personal affairs. However, drivers must not compromise their own or others’ safety when using such equipment. Mobile Communications can enhance personal safety and security when appropriately used, particularly in emergency situations.
  • Page 61: Locks And Security

    Locks and Security Locks and Security KEYS The key operates all locks on your vehicle. In case of loss, replacement keys are available from your dealer. You should always carry a second key with you in a safe place in case you require it in an emergency.
  • Page 62 Locks and Security The inside lights will not turn off if: • they have been turned on using the dimmer control or • any door is open. The battery saver feature will turn off the interior lamps 30 minutes after the ignition is turned to the OFF position.
  • Page 63 Locks and Security Keep vehicle doors and luggage compartment locked and keep keys and remote transmitters out of a child’s reach. Unsupervised children could lock themselves in the trunk and risk injury. Children should be taught not to play in vehicles. On hot days, the temperature in the trunk or vehicle interior can rise very quickly.
  • Page 64: Anti-Theft System

    Locks and Security If there is any potential remote keyless entry problem with your vehicle, ensure ALL remote entry transmitters are taken to your authorized dealer to aid in troubleshooting. Locking the doors 1. Press and release to lock all the doors and activate the anti-theft system.
  • Page 65 Locks and Security Opening the trunk Press once to open the trunk. • Ensure that the trunk is closed and latched before driving your vehicle. Failure to properly latch the trunk may cause objects to fall out or block the driver’s rear view. In the event of battery failure, you can open the trunk by using your master key on the key cylinder...
  • Page 66 Locks and Security To replace the battery: 1. Twist a thin coin between the two halves of the remote entry transmitter near the key ring. DO NOT TAKE THE RUBBER COVER AND CIRCUIT BOARD OFF THE FRONT HOUSING OF THE REMOTE ENTRY TRANSMITTER.
  • Page 67 Locks and Security How to reprogram your remote entry transmitters You must have all remote entry transmitters (maximum of four) available before beginning this procedure. To reprogram the remote entry transmitters: 1. Ensure the vehicle is electronically unlocked. 2. Put the key in the ignition. 3.
  • Page 68 Locks and Security The inside lights will not turn off if: • they have been turned on with the dimmer control, or • any door is open. The battery saver will shut off the interior lamps 30 minutes after the ignition has been turned to the OFF position.
  • Page 69 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.
  • Page 70 Only a coded key will start your vehicle. Spare coded keys may be purchased from an authorized Ford dealer. An authorized Ford dealer can also program your coded key, or you can do it yourself. Refer to Programming spare keys.
  • Page 71 If two previously programmed coded keys are available, you must take your vehicle to an authorized Ford dealer to have the spare coded key(s) programmed. Please read and understand the entire procedure before you begin.
  • Page 72 Locks and Security PERIMETER ALARM SYSTEM The perimeter anti-theft system will warn you in the event of an unauthorized entry to your vehicle. If there is any potential perimeter anti-theft problem with your vehicle, ensure ALL remote entry transmitters are taken to the dealership to aid in troubleshooting.
  • Page 73: 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 74 Seating and Safety Restraints Using the manual lumbar support The lumbar control is located on the front of the driver’s seat cushion. Turn to adjust lumbar support. Using the manual recline function Never adjust the driver’s seat or seatback when the vehicle is moving.
  • Page 75 Seating and Safety Restraints The driver and passenger seat must be in the upright position and the lap belt must be snug and low across the hips while the vehicle is moving. 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.
  • Page 76: Safety Restraints

    Seating and Safety Restraints Adjusting the passenger’s power seat The control is located on the outboard side of the seat cushion. Press the control to move the seat forward or backward. Heated seats (if equipped) To operate the heated seats: •...
  • Page 77 Seating and Safety Restraints Never let a passenger hold a child on his or her lap while the vehicle is moving. The passenger cannot protect the child from injury in a collision. All occupants of the vehicle, including the driver, should always properly wear their safety belts, even when an air bag (SRS) is provided.
  • Page 78 Seating and Safety Restraints 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. 2.
  • Page 79 Seating and Safety Restraints Automatic locking mode How to use the automatic locking mode • Buckle the combination lap and shoulder belt. • Grasp the shoulder portion and pull downward until the entire belt is pulled out. • Allow the belt to retract. As the belt retracts, you will hear a clicking sound.
  • Page 80 Seating and Safety Restraints When to use the automatic locking mode • Anytime a child safety seat is installed in the vehicle. Refer to Safety Restraints for Children or Safety Seats for Children later in this chapter. 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 return to the vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking mode.
  • Page 81 Seating and Safety Restraints Safety belt warning light and indicator chime The safety belt warning light illuminates in the instrument cluster and a chime sounds to remind the occupants to fasten their safety belts. 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...
  • Page 82 Seating and Safety Restraints If... Then... The driver’s safety belt is not The BeltMinder feature is activated - buckled before the vehicle has the safety belt warning light reached at least 5 km/h (3 illuminates and the warning chime mph) and 1-2 minutes have sounds for 6 seconds every 30 elapsed since the ignition seconds, repeating for approximately...
  • Page 83 Seating and Safety Restraints Reasons given... Consider... “I was in a hurry” Prime time for an accident. BeltMinder reminds us to take a few seconds to buckle up. “Safety belts don’t work” Safety belts, when used properly, reduce risk of death to front seat occupants by 45% in cars, and by 60% in light trucks.
  • Page 84 Seating and Safety Restraints One time disable Any time the safety belt is buckled and then unbuckled during an ignition ON cycle, the BeltMinder will be disabled for that ignition cycle only. Deactivating/activating the BeltMinder feature Read steps 1 - 9 thoroughly before proceeding with the deactivation/activation programming procedure.
  • Page 85 (if equipped), LATCH child seat tether anchors and lower anchors (if equipped), and attaching hardware, should be inspected after a collision. Ford recommends that all safety belt assemblies used in vehicles involved in a collision be replaced. However, if...
  • Page 86: Air Bags

    Seating and Safety Restraints 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. Refer to Interior in the Cleaning chapter. AIR BAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) Important supplemental restraint system (SRS) precautions The supplemental restraint system is designed to work with the safety...
  • Page 87 Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System or its fuses. See your Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealer. Modifying or adding equipment to the front end of the vehicle...
  • Page 88 Seating and Safety Restraints How does the safety belt pretensioner and air bag supplemental restraint system work? The safety belt pretensioner and air bag SRS are designed to activate when the vehicle sustains longitudinal deceleration sufficient to cause the sensors to close an electrical circuit that initiates pretensioner activation and air bag inflation.
  • Page 89 Seating and Safety Restraints Several air bag system components get hot after inflation. Do not touch them after inflation. If the air bag has deployed, the air bag will not function again and must be replaced immediately. If the air bag is not replaced, the unrepaired area will increase the risk of injury in a collision.
  • Page 90 OFF position and the ignition switch is in ON, have the front and side passenger air bag switch serviced at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. In order to avoid inadvertent activation of the switch, always remove the ignition key from the front and side passenger air bag ON/OFF switch.
  • Page 91 ON/OFF switch is in the ON position and the ignition switch is in ON, have the front and side passenger air bag ON/OFF switch serviced at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer immediately. The front passenger air bag and the passenger side air bag should always...
  • Page 92 Seating and Safety Restraints The vast majority of drivers and passengers are much safer with an air bag than without. To do their job and reduce the risk of life threatening injuries, air bags must open with great force, and this force can pose a potentially deadly risk in some situations, particularly when a front seat occupant is not properly buckled up.
  • Page 93 Seating and Safety Restraints • makes the potential harm from the passenger air bag in a crash greater than the potential harm from turning OFF the air bag and allowing the passenger, even if belted, to hit the dashboard or windshield in a crash.
  • Page 94 Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the air bag SRS, its fuses or the seat cover on a seat containing an air bag. See your Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealer. 2004 Thunderbird (tbr) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
  • Page 95 Seating and Safety Restraints All occupants of the vehicle should always wear their safety belts even when an air bag SRS is provided. How does the side air bag system work? The side air bag system consists of the following: •...
  • Page 96 Seating and Safety Restraints Several air bag system components get hot after inflation. Do not touch them after inflation. If the side air bag has deployed, the air bag will not function again. The side air bag system (including the seat) must be inspected and serviced by a qualified technician in accordance with...
  • Page 97: Child Restraints

    Seating and Safety Restraints Disposal of air bags and air bag equipped vehicles (including pretensioners) See your local dealership or qualified technician. Air bags MUST BE disposed of by qualified personnel. SAFETY RESTRAINTS FOR CHILDREN See the following sections for directions on how to properly use safety restraints for children.
  • Page 98 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 99 Seating and Safety Restraints Types of booster seats There are two types of belt-positioning booster seats: • Those that are backless. If your backless booster seat has a removable shield, remove the shield and use the lap/shoulder belt. • Those with a high back. A backless booster would be a better choice because the high back booster will place the child...
  • Page 100 Seating and Safety Restraints Never put the shoulder belt under a child’s arm or behind the back because it eliminates the protection for the upper part of the body and may increase the risk of injury or death in a collision. Never use pillows, books, or towels to boost a child.
  • Page 101 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 102 Seating and Safety Restraints 1. Position the child safety seat in a seat with a combination lap and shoulder belt. 2. Pull down on the shoulder belt and then grasp the shoulder belt and lap belt together. 3. While holding the shoulder and lap belt portions together, route the tongue through the child seat according to the child seat...
  • Page 103 Seating and Safety Restraints 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 you hear a snap and feel the latch engage. Make sure the tongue is latched securely by pulling on it.
  • Page 104 Seating and Safety Restraints 9. Before placing the child in the seat, forcibly move the seat forward and back to make sure the seat is securely held in place. To check this, grab the seat at the belt path and attempt to move it side to side and forward.
  • Page 105 Seating and Safety Restraints 1. Position the child safety seat on the passenger seat cushion. 2. Locate the tether anchor at the bottom back of the passenger seat. 3. Route the child safety seat tether strap under the head restraint and over the back of the seat.
  • Page 106 Seating and Safety Restraints 5. Rotate the tether strap. 6. Clip the tether strap to the anchor on the seat frame. 7. Rotate the tether strap clip. 2004 Thunderbird (tbr) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)
  • Page 107 Seating and Safety Restraints 8. Tighten the child safety seat tether strap according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Attaching child safety seats with Lower Anchor and Tethers for Children (LATCH) attachments for child seat anchors LATCH lower anchors are recommended for use by children up to 22 kg (48 pounds) in a child restraint.
  • Page 108 Seating and Safety Restraints The lower anchors for child seat installation are located at the rear section of the passenger seat between the cushion and seat back. Follow the child seat manufacturer’s instructions to properly install safety seats with LATCH attachments. Attach LATCH lower attachments of the child seat only to the anchors shown.
  • Page 109: Driving

    Driving Driving STARTING Positions of the ignition 1. LOCK, locks the gearshift lever and allows key removal. (The steering wheel will not lock after key removal.) 2. OFF, shuts off the engine and all accessories except the radio, convertible top control and the power windows if accessory delay is active.
  • Page 110 Driving Extended idling at high engine speeds can produce very high temperatures in the engine and exhaust system, creating the risk of fire or other damage. Do not park, idle, or drive your vehicle in dry grass or other dry ground cover.
  • Page 111 Driving • Turn the key to 4 (ON) without turning the key to 5 (START). Make sure the corresponding lights illuminate or illuminate briefly. If a light fails to illuminate, have the vehicle serviced. • If the driver’s safety belt is fastened, the light may not illuminate.
  • Page 112: Brakes

    Driving Using the engine block heater (if equipped) An engine block heater warms the engine coolant which aids in starting and heater/defroster performance. Use of an engine block heater is strongly recommended if you live in a region where temperatures reach -23°...
  • Page 113 Driving Even when the ABS is disabled, BRAKE normal braking is still effective. (If your BRAKE warning lamp illuminates with the parking brake released, have your brake system serviced immediately.) Using ABS When hard braking is required, apply continuous force on the brake pedal;...
  • Page 114 Driving During Traction Control operation, the traction control active light will illuminate, you may hear an electric motor type of sound coming from the engine compartment and the engine will not “rev-up” when you push further on the accelerator. This is normal system behavior and should be no reason for concern.
  • Page 115: Transmission Operation

    Driving • uneven tire wear • loose or worn suspension components • loose or worn steering components • improper steering alignment A high crown in the road or high crosswinds may also make the steering seem to wander/pull. Speed sensitive steering The steering in your vehicle is speed sensitive.
  • Page 116 Driving Do not drive your vehicle until you verify that the brakelamps are working. Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the LOCK position and remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle. If the parking brake is fully released, but the brake warning lamp remains illuminated, the brakes may not be working properly.
  • Page 117 Driving • Move the gearshift lever into the desired gear To put your vehicle in P (Park): • Come to a complete stop • Move the gearshift lever and securely latch it in P (Park) Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park).
  • Page 118 Driving • Selecting 3 (Third) at higher speeds will cause the transmission to downshift to third gear at the appropriate vehicle speed. 2 (Second) This position allows for second gear only. • Provides engine braking. • Use to start-up on slippery roads. •...
  • Page 119 Driving Automatic shift mode Operates like a normal automatic transmission for P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), D5 and D4. Refer to Driving with a 5–speed automatic transmission in this chapter for P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), D5 and D4 information. Manual shift mode With the gearshift lever in D5 (Overdrive), the gearshift lever can...
  • Page 120 Driving • One tap rearward (-) will command the transmission to downshift one gear range. • Upshifts are allowed at any vehicle speed, with the exception of 4th and 5th gear. The transmission will not do a 4th or 5th gear start. Ensure that the transmission is returned to 1st gear once the vehicle is stopped.
  • Page 121: Vehicle Loading

    Driving DRIVING THROUGH WATER If driving through deep or standing water is unavoidable, proceed very slowly especially if the depth is not known. Never drive through water that is higher than the bottom of the hubs (for trucks) or the bottom of the wheel rims (for cars).
  • Page 122 Driving GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) – is the maximum allowable weight that can be carried by a single axle (front or rear). These numbers are shown on the Safety Compliance Certification Label located on the driver’s door or door pillar. The total load on each axle must never exceed its GAWR.
  • Page 123 Driving Exceeding the Safety Certification Label axle weight rating limits could result in substandard vehicle handling, performance, engine, transmission and/or structural damage, serious damage to the vehicle, loss of control and personal injury. GCW (Gross Combined Weight) – is the weight of the loaded vehicle (GVW) plus the weight of the fully loaded trailer.
  • Page 124: Trailer Towing

    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. Improper removal/installation of the driveshaft may cause damage to the driveshaft and internal transmission components.
  • Page 125: 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 126 1–800–241–3673; Lincoln vehicle customers call 1–800–521–4140. 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;...
  • Page 127: Fuel Pump Shut-Off Switch

    Roadside Emergencies FUEL FUEL PUMP SHUT-OFF SWITCH RESET This device stops the electric fuel pump from sending fuel to the engine when your vehicle has had a substantial jolt. After an accident, if the engine cranks but does not start, this switch may have been activated.
  • Page 128 Roadside Emergencies Standard fuse amperage rating and color COLOR Cartridge Fuse Mini Standard Maxi Fuse link maxi rating fuses fuses fuses cartridge fuses Grey Grey — — — Violet Violet — — — Pink Pink — — — — — —...
  • Page 129 Roadside Emergencies OWNER'S MANUAL RELAY 1 The fuses are coded as follows. Fuse/Relay Fuse Amp Passenger Compartment Fuse Location Rating Panel Description Starter relay coil Radio start signal Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) module Cluster, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) relay coil, Inertia switch, Transmission park switch Traction control switch, Cruise deactivation brake switch and...
  • Page 130 Roadside Emergencies Fuse/Relay Fuse Amp Passenger Compartment Fuse Location Rating Panel Description Right-hand headlamp Left-hand turn/park lamp and side marker Left-hand headlamp Passenger air bag on/off switch indicator Cluster Air bag module Not used (spare) Driver and passenger heated seat modules Cluster Radio, Central imaging amplifier...
  • Page 131 Roadside Emergencies Front power distribution box The front 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.
  • Page 132 Roadside Emergencies 9 10 11 12 RELAY 01 RELAY 02 RELAY 03 RELAY RELAY 04 RELAY 05 RELAY 06 RELAY 07 RELAY RELAY RELAY RELAY RELAY The high-current fuses are coded as follows. Fuse/Relay Fuse Amp Power Distribution Box Location Rating Description 10A*...
  • Page 133 Roadside Emergencies Fuse/Relay Fuse Amp Power Distribution Box Location Rating Description — Not used 30A** ABS module power — Not used 30A** Blower motor — Not used 40A** — Not used — Not used 30A** Starter solenoid 40A** ABS pump —...
  • Page 134: Rear Power Distribution Box

    Roadside Emergencies Rear power distribution box The rear power distribution box is located in the luggage compartment under the spare tire well cover. 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.
  • Page 135 Roadside Emergencies The high-current fuses are coded as follows. Fuse/Relay Fuse Amp Power Distribution Box Location Rating Description 15A* Rear Electronics Module (REM) License plate lamp and rear side markers 10A* Left rear stop/turn/tail lamp 10A* Luggage compartment lamp, Map/courtesy overhead lamp, Homelink transmitter REM - Hard top sense 10A*...
  • Page 136: Changing The Tires

    Roadside Emergencies Fuse/Relay Fuse Amp Power Distribution Box Location Rating Description 30A** SSP1 30A** REM -Right front window 30A** Rear defroster — Not used 40A** Convertible top motor 30A** SSP2 Relay 001 Full ISO SSP1 Relay 002 Full ISO SSP4 Relay 003 Full ISO Rear defroster...
  • Page 137 Roadside Emergencies When driving with the temporary spare tire do not: • exceed 80 km/h (50 mph) • load the vehicle beyond maximum vehicle load rating listed on the Safety Compliance Label • tow a trailer • use tire chains •...
  • Page 138 Roadside Emergencies 3. Lift the trunk cargo cover and remove the spare tire, jack and tool bag with lug wrench. 4. Loosen each wheel lug nut one-half turn counterclockwise but do not remove them until the wheel is raised off the ground. 2004 Thunderbird (tbr) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)
  • Page 139 Roadside Emergencies 5. Put the jack in the jack notch next to the tire you are changing. Turn the jack handle clockwise until the wheel is completely off the ground. Never use the rear differential as a jacking point. To lessen the risk of personal injury, do not put any part of your body under the vehicle while changing a tire.
  • Page 140 Roadside Emergencies 9. Remove the jack and fully tighten the lug nuts in the order shown. Note: The jack cannot be properly stowed when a full size tire is placed here. Secure the jack and the temporary spare tire as shown after the flat tire has been fixed.
  • Page 141: Jump Starting

    85-115 * 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 142 Roadside Emergencies 1. Use only a 12–volt supply to start your vehicle. 2. Do not disconnect the battery of your disabled vehicle as this could damage the vehicle’s electrical system. Keep the battery vent hose attached at all times. 3. Park the booster vehicle close to the trunk of your disabled vehicle making sure the two vehicles do not touch.
  • Page 143 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. 2004 Thunderbird (tbr) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)
  • Page 144 Roadside Emergencies 4. Make the final connection of the negative (-) cable to the spare tire tie-down stud. (Your vehicle may be equipped with a plastic cap on top of the tire tie-down stud. This cap must be removed prior to attaching the cable to the stud.) Do not connect the end of the second cable to the negative (-) terminal of the battery to be jumped.
  • Page 145 Roadside Emergencies Removing the jumper cables Remove the jumper cables in the reverse order that they were connected. 1. Remove the jumper cable from the spare tire tie-down stud. 2. Remove the jumper cable on the negative (-) connection of the booster vehicle’s battery.
  • Page 146 Roadside Emergencies 3. Remove the jumper cable from the positive (+) terminal of the booster vehicle’s battery. 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 147: 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 is towed by other means or incorrectly, vehicle damage may occur.
  • Page 148: Customer Assistance

    Center at the number below. 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 149 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 150 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 151 Customer Assistance The Dispute Settlement Board may not be available in all states. Ford Motor Company reserves the right to change eligibility limitations, modify procedures and/or to discontinue this service without notice and without incurring obligations per applicable state law.
  • Page 152 • 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 153 After a case is reviewed, the Board mails you a decision letter and a form on which to accept or reject the Board’s decision. The decisions of the Board are binding on Ford (and, in some cases, on the dealer) but not on consumers who are free to pursue other remedies available to them under state or federal law.
  • Page 154 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 155 Obtaining a French owner’s guide French Owner’s Guides can be obtained from your dealer or by writing to Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited, Service Publications, P.O. Box 1580, Station B, Mississauga, Ontario L4Y 4G3. IN CALIFORNIA (U.S. ONLY) California Civil Code Section 1793.2(d) requires that, if a manufacturer...
  • Page 156: Reporting Safety Defects (U.s. Only)

    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.
  • Page 157: 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 158 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 159 Cleaning • Cover the highlighted areas to prevent water damage when cleaning the engine. • Never wash or rinse the engine while it is running; water in the running engine may cause internal damage. PLASTIC (NON-PAINTED) EXTERIOR PARTS Use only approved products to clean plastic parts. These products are available from your dealer.
  • Page 160 Cleaning • Do not use fuel, kerosene, or paint thinner to clean any parts. • Wiper blades can be cleaned with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol or windshield washer solution. Be sure to replace wiper blades when they appear worn or do not function properly. INSTRUMENT PANEL AND CLUSTER LENS Clean the instrument panel with a damp cloth, then dry with a dry cloth.
  • Page 161 Cleaning INTERIOR For fabric, carpets, cloth seats, safety belts and seats equipped with side air bags: • Remove dust and loose dirt with a vacuum cleaner. • Remove light stains and soil with Motorcraft Extra Strength Upholstery Cleaner (ZC-41). • If grease or tar is present on the material, spot-clean the area first with Motorcraft Spot and Stain Remover (ZC-14).
  • Page 162 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 163: Maintenance And Specifications

    Maintenance and Specifications Maintenance and Specifications SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS To help you service your vehicle: • We highlight do-it-yourself items in the engine compartment for easy location. • We provide a scheduled maintenance guide which makes tracking routine service easy. If your vehicle requires professional service, your dealership can provide the necessary parts and service.
  • Page 164: Engine Compartment

    Maintenance and Specifications OPENING THE HOOD 1. Inside the vehicle, pull the hood release handle located at the bottom left 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 by pushing the handle toward the passenger side of the vehicle.
  • Page 165: Engine Oil

    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 this chapter. State or local regulations on volatile organic compounds may restrict the use of methanol, a common windshield washer antifreeze additive.
  • Page 166 Maintenance and Specifications 5. Locate and carefully remove the engine oil level indicator (dipstick). 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.
  • Page 167 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 168: Battery

    Maintenance and Specifications BATTERY Your vehicle is equipped with a Motorcraft maintenance-free battery which is located in the luggage compartment, next to the spare tire. Your battery is designed to purge any battery gases to the outside of the vehicle by means of a vent hose. This vent hose MUST be attached at all times.
  • Page 169 Maintenance and Specifications Keep batteries out of reach of children. Batteries contain sulfuric acid. Avoid contact with skin, eyes or clothing. Shield your eyes when working near the battery to protect against possible splashing of acid solution. In case of acid contact with skin or eyes, flush immediately with water for a minimum of 15 minutes and get prompt medical attention.
  • Page 170 Maintenance and Specifications • Always dispose of automotive batteries in a responsible manner. Follow your local authorized standards for disposal. Call your local authorized recycling center to find out more about recycling automotive batteries. RECYCLE ENGINE COOLANT Checking engine coolant The concentration and level of engine coolant should be checked at the mileage intervals listed in the scheduled maintenance guide.
  • Page 171 Maintenance and Specifications When the engine is cold, check the level of the engine coolant in the reservoir. COLD FILL LEVEL • The engine coolant should be at the “cold fill level” or within the “cold fill range” as listed on the engine coolant reservoir (depending upon application).
  • Page 172 If sprayed on the windshield, engine coolant could make it difficult to see through the windshield. • Add Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant (yellow-colored), VC-7–A (VC-7–B in Oregon), 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 173 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 174: Fail-Safe Cooling

    Maintenance and Specifications Coolant refill capacity To find out how much fluid your vehicle’s cooling system can hold, refer to Refill capacities in this chapter. Fill your engine coolant reservoir as outlined in Adding engine coolant in this chapter. Severe climates If you drive in extremely cold climates (less than –36°...
  • Page 175 Maintenance and Specifications When this occurs the vehicle will still operate. However: • The engine power will be limited. • The air conditioning system will be disabled. Continued operation will increase the engine temperature and the engine will completely shut down, causing steering and braking effort to increase.
  • Page 176 Maintenance and Specifications If you do not use the proper fuel filler cap, excessive pressure or vacuum in the fuel tank may damage the fuel system or cause the fuel cap to disengage in a collision, which may result in possible personal injury.
  • Page 177 Maintenance and Specifications • Be particularly careful if you are taking “Antabuse” or other forms of disulfiram for the treatment of alcoholism. Breathing gasoline vapors, or skin contact could cause an adverse reaction. In sensitive individuals, serious personal injury or sickness may result. If fuel is splashed on the skin, promptly wash skin thoroughly with soap and water.
  • Page 178 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 179 Ask your fuel supplier about gasolines that meet the World-wide Fuel Charter. 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 180 Maintenance and Specifications Replace the fuel filter with an authorized Motorcraft part. The customer warranty may be void for any damage to the fuel system if an authorized Motorcraft fuel filter is not used. ESSENTIALS OF GOOD FUEL ECONOMY Measuring techniques Your best source of information about actual fuel economy is you, the driver.
  • Page 181 Maintenance and Specifications 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. 4. Subtract your initial odometer reading from the current odometer reading.
  • Page 182 Maintenance and Specifications • Warming up a vehicle on cold mornings is not required and may reduce fuel economy. • Resting your foot on the brake pedal while driving may reduce fuel economy. • Combine errands and minimize stop-and-go driving. Maintenance •...
  • Page 183 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 184 Maintenance and Specifications Do not make any unauthorized changes to your vehicle or engine. By law, vehicle owners and anyone who manufactures, repairs, services, sells, leases, trades vehicles, or supervises a fleet of vehicles are not permitted to intentionally remove an emission control device or prevent it from working.
  • Page 185 Maintenance and Specifications If the vehicle’s powertrain system or its battery has just been serviced, the on-board diagnostics system is reset to a “not ready for I/M test” condition. To ready the on-board diagnostics system for I/M testing, a minimum of 30 minutes of city and highway driving is necessary as described below: •...
  • Page 186 Maintenance and Specifications BRAKE FLUID RESERVOIR The fluid level will drop slowly as the brakes wear, and will rise when the brake components are replaced. Fluid levels between the “MIN” and “MAX” lines are within the normal operating range, there is no need to add fluid.
  • Page 187: Air Filter(S)

    Maintenance and Specifications Changing the air filter element 1. Loosen the hose clamp on the outlet tube at the air filter housing. 2. Release the two clamps that secure the cover to the air filter housing and place the cover aside. 3.
  • Page 188 Maintenance and Specifications 5. Install a new air filter element. Be careful not to crimp the filter element edges between the air filter housing and cover. This could cause filter damage and allow unmetered air to enter the engine if not properly seated.
  • Page 189 10 to 12 inches or limited production tires as defined in Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 575.104(c)(2). U.S. Department of Transportation-Tire quality grades: The U.S. Department of Transportation requires Ford to give you the following information about tire grades exactly as the government has written it. Treadwear...
  • Page 190 Maintenance and Specifications The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure. TIRES Tires are designed to give many thousands of miles of service, but they must be maintained in order to get the maximum benefit from them.
  • Page 191 Maintenance and Specifications INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE TIRE SIDEWALL Federal law requires tire manufacturers to place standardized information on the sidewall of all tires. This information identifies and describes the fundamental characteristics of the tire and also provides a tire identification number for safety standard certification and in case of a recall.
  • Page 192 Maintenance and Specifications 7. H: Indicates the tire’s speed rating. The speed rating denotes the speed at which a tire is designed to be driven for extended periods of time under a standard condition of load and inflation pressure. The tires on your vehicle may operate at different conditions for load and inflation pressure.
  • Page 193 Maintenance and Specifications 10. Tire Ply Composition and Material Used: Indicates the number of plies indicates or the number of layers of rubber-coated fabric in the tire tread and sidewall. Tire manufacturers also must indicate the ply materials in the tire and the sidewall, which include steel, nylon, polyester, and others.
  • Page 194 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 195 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 196 Maintenance and Specifications Use the recommended cold inflation pressure for optimum tire performance and wear. Under-inflation or over-inflation may cause uneven treadwear patterns. Under-inflation is the most common cause of tire failures and may result in severe tire cracking, tread separation or blowout , with unexpected loss of vehicle control and increased risk of injury.
  • Page 197 Maintenance and Specifications 6. Visually inspect the tires to make sure there are no nails or other objects embedded that could poke a hole in the tire and cause an air leak. 7. Check the sidewalls to make sure there are no gouges, cuts, bulges or other irregularities.
  • Page 198 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) 2004 Thunderbird (tbr) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)
  • Page 199 Maintenance and Specifications Sometimes irregular tire wear can be corrected by rotating the tires. Note: If your tires show uneven wear ask a qualified technician at a reputable repair facility to check for and correct any wheel misalignment, tire imbalance or mechanical problem involved before tire rotation. Tire wear Measure and inspect the tire tread on all your tires periodically.
  • Page 200 Maintenance and Specifications • Avoid fast starts, stops and turns • Avoid potholes and objects on the road • Do not run over curbs or hit the tire against a curb when parking If you vehicle is stuck in snow, mud, sand, etc., do not rapidly spin the tires;...
  • Page 201: Part Numbers

    Oil filter FL-218 PCV valve Spark plugs* AGSP-32F * Refer to Vehicle Emissions Control Information (VECI) decal for spark plug information. REFILL CAPACITIES Fluid Ford Part Application Capacity Name Brake fluid Motorcraft High Fill to MAX line Performance on reservoir...
  • Page 202 Windshield Washer Concentrate Use only brake fluids certified to meet Ford specifications. Refer to Lubricant Specifications in this chapter. DOT 3 fluid is recommended. However, if DOT 3 is not available, DOT 4 fluid can be used. Add the coolant type originally equipped in your vehicle.
  • Page 203: Lubricant Specifications

    Approximate dry capacity, includes cooler and tubes. Fluid level should be checked by a qualified service technician. 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 204 Windshield Washer Concentrate Use only brake fluids certified to meet Ford specifications. DOT 3 fluid is recommended. However, if DOT 3 is not available, DOT 4 fluid can be used. Ford design rear axles contain a synthetic lubricant that does not require changing unless the axle has been submerged in water.
  • Page 205 Maintenance and Specifications ENGINE DATA Engine 3.9L-4V V8 engine Displacement 3 949 cc (241 cid) Required fuel 91 octane Firing order 1-5-4-2-6-3-7-8 Spark plug gap 0.99-1.09 mm (0.039-0.043 inch) Ignition system Coil on plug Compression ratio 10.75:1 VEHICLE DIMENSIONS Vehicle dimensions mm (in) (1) Overall length 4732mm (186.3 in)
  • Page 206: Certification Label

    Maintenance and Specifications IDENTIFYING YOUR VEHICLE Certification label The National Highway Traffic Safety MFD. BY FORD MOTOR CO. IN U.S.A. Administration Regulations require DATE: XXXXX GVWR:XXXXXXXXXXXX that a Certification label be affixed FRONT GAWR: XXXXXX/XXXXXXX REAR GAWR: XXXXXXX/XXXXXXX to a vehicle and prescribe where the THIS VEHICLE CONFORMS TO ALL APPLICABLE FEDERAL Certification label may be located.
  • Page 207 Maintenance and Specifications Vehicle identification number (VIN) The vehicle identification number is attached to a metal tag and is located on the driver side XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX instrument panel. (Please note that in the graphic XXXX is representative of your vehicle identification number.) 1.
  • Page 208 Maintenance and Specifications Transmission/Transaxle code designations You can find a transmission/transaxle code on the vehicle certification label which is located on the door pillar. The following table tells you which transmission or transaxle each code represents. Truck application: Code Transmission Description Manual transmission Manual 5–speed overdrive (Mazda R2) Manual 5–speed overdrive (Close ratio)
  • Page 209 Maintenance and Specifications Passenger car application: Code Transmission/Transaxle Description Front wheel drive manual transaxle 5–speed overdrive (MTX75) 5–speed overdrive (M5) Front wheel drive automatic transaxle 4–speed overdrive (4FE) 3–speed (Mazda) 4–speed overdrive (AX4S) 4–speed overdrive (4F20E) 4–speed overdrive (4F50N) 4–speed overdrive (CD4E) Rear wheel drive manual transaxle 5–speed (Mazda M5) Rear wheel drive automatic transmission...
  • Page 210: 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 211 Accessories Floor mats Interior trim kits Leather wrapped steering wheels Scuff plates Speed control Lifestyle Bike racks Cargo organization and management Engine block heaters and blankets Peace of mind Airbag anti-theft locks First aid and safety kits Full vehicle covers Locking gas cap Navigation systems Remote start...
  • Page 212: Index

    Index Index acid, treating emergencies ..168 jumping a disabled battery ..141 maintenance-free ....168 Accessory delay ......40 replacement, specifications ...201 Air bag supplemental restraint servicing ........168 system ........86, 94 BeltMinder ........81 and child safety seats ....87 description ......86, 94 Brakes ........112 disposal ........97 anti-lock ......112–113 driver air bag ......88, 95...
  • Page 213 Emergency Flashers ....126 Cruise control (see Speed control) ....42 Emission control system ..183 Customer Assistance ....125 Engine ........205 cleaning ........158 Ford accessories for your coolant ........170 vehicle ........162 fail-safe coolant ......174 Ford Extended Service idle speed control ....168 Plan ..........150...
  • Page 214 Index Exhaust fumes ......112 Headlamps ........27 aiming ........29 autolamp system .......27 bulb specifications ....31 Fail safe cooling ......174 daytime running lights .....27 Floor mats ........60 flash to pass ......28 Fluid capacities ......201 replacing bulbs ......32 turning on and off ....27 Fuel ..........175 calculating fuel economy ..180 Heating...
  • Page 215 Index Keyless entry system Octane rating ......178 autolock ........68 Oil (see Engine oil) ....165 Keys positions of the ignition ..109 Parking brake ......113 Parts (see Motorcraft parts) ..201 Lamps autolamp system .......27 Power distribution box bulb replacement (see Fuses) .......131, 134 specifications chart ....31 Power door locks ......61 daytime running light ....27...
  • Page 216: Table Of Contents

    Index belt minder .......81 treadwear ........189 extension assembly ....85 Towing ........124 for adults ......77–80 recreational towing ....124 for children .......97 trailer towing ......124 safety belt maintenance ...85 wrecker ........147 warning light and chime ..81 Traction control ......113 Safety seats for children ..100 Transmission ......115 Seat belts brake-shift interlock (BSI) ..115...

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