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Mercury 1997 Mystique User Manual

1997 mystique
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  • Page 1 www.carburetor-manual.com Would you like some Free Manuals? http://carburetor-manual.com/free-shop-manual-club-t-13.html Also visit http://freeshopmanual.com for more Free Manuals Also Visit my website for 7 FREE Download Manuals starting with this one. "The ABC's of Carburetion" Click Here Now file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Tim/Desktop/carburetor-manual-welcome/index.htm[4/25/2009 11:42:20 AM]...

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Introduction ..... Instrumentation ....Audio .

  • Page 5: Introduction

    Introduction Ford’s Commitment to You At Ford Motor Company, excellence is the continuous commitment to achieve the best result possible. It is dedication to learning what you want, determination to develop the right concept, and execution of that concept with care, precision, and attention to detail.
  • Page 6 Things to Know About Using This Guide Congratulations on the purchase of your new vehicle. This guide has information about the equipment and the options for your new vehicle. You may not have bought all of the options available to you. If you do not know which information applies to your vehicle, talk to your dealer.
  • Page 7 If you lose your Warranty Information Booklet, you can get a new one free of charge. Contact any Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer, or refer to the addresses and phone numbers on the first page of this Owner’s Guide.
  • Page 8 Ford Extended Service Plan More Protection for Your Vehicle You can get more protection for your new car or light truck by purchasing a Ford Extended Service Plan (Ford ESP). Ford ESP is the only extended service program with the Ford name on it and the only service contract backed by Ford Motor Company.
  • Page 9 Introduction Breaking Your Vehicle In Your new vehicle goes through an adjustment or break-in period during the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km) that you drive it. During the break-in period, you need to pay careful attention to how you drive your vehicle. Avoid sudden stops.

  • Page 10: Instrumentation

    Instrumentation The instrument panel (dashboard) on your vehicle is divided into several different sections. The illustrations on the following pages show the major parts of the instrument panel that are described in this chapter. Some items shown may not be on all vehicles.
  • Page 12 Instrumentation In your vehicle, the warning lights and gauges are grouped together on the instrument panel. We call this grouping a cluster. Your vehicle has a sport cluster.
  • Page 14 Instrumentation Sport Cluster The following warning lights and gauges are on the sport cluster. All of the warning lights and gauges alert you to possible problems with your vehicle. The following sections detail what each of these indicators means. Indicator Lights and Chimes Safety Belt Warning Light and Chime This warning light and chime remind you to fasten your safety belt.
  • Page 15 Brake System Warning Light The warning light for the brakes can show two things — that the parking brake is not fully released, or that the brake fluid level is low in the master cylinder reservoir. If the fluid level is low, the brake system should be checked by a qualified service technician.
  • Page 16 Instrumentation Charging System Light This light indicates that your battery is not being charged and that you need to have the electrical system checked. This light illuminates every time you turn the ignition to the ON or START position (engine off). The light should go off when the engine starts and the alternator begins to charge.
  • Page 17 If you lose engine oil pressure: Pull off the road as soon as safely possible. Shut off the engine immediately. If you do not stop the engine as soon as safely possible, severe engine damage could result. Check the engine’s oil level, following the instructions on checking and adding engine oil in this Owner Guide.
  • Page 18 RWARNING If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the air bag system serviced at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer immediately.
  • Page 19 Traction Control System Light (If equipped) This light comes on when the traction control system has been disengaged. It may come on or flash on and off while traction control is operating. If the light stays on for more than three (3) seconds after the ignition is turned to the ON position or does not come on when the T/C OFF button is pressed, have the traction control system checked by a qualified technician as soon as possible.
  • Page 20 Instrumentation Overdrive Off Indicator (Automatic Transaxle Only) This light tells you that the Transaxle Control Switch (TCS) on the gearshift lever has been pushed. When the light is on, the transaxle will not shift into overdrive. Depressing the TCS button located below the gearshift release button on the shifter will return the vehicle to “overdrive on”...
  • Page 21 Fuel Gauge The fuel gauge displays approximately how much fuel you have in the fuel tank. For proper fuel gauge operation, the ignition must be in the OFF position before you add fuel to the fuel tank. The fuel gauge indicator may vary slightly while the vehicle is in motion.
  • Page 22 Instrumentation If, under any circumstances, the pointer moves above the NORMAL band, the engine is overheating and continued operation may cause engine damage. If your engine overheats: Pull off the road as soon as safely possible. Turn off the engine. Let the engine cool.
  • Page 23 Anti-lock Brake System Warning Light (If equipped) Your vehicle may have an Anti-lock Brake System feature. If it does, check the Anti-lock Brake System light each time you start the engine. If it stays on longer than three (3) seconds, shut off the engine and restart.
  • Page 24 Instrumentation Low Coolant Light (If equipped) This light indicates that the level of the engine coolant is low inside the coolant recovery bottle and that you should add more coolant. See Engine Coolant in the Index. This light comes on for a few seconds when the ignition is turned to the START position, but should turn off when the engine starts.
  • Page 26 Compact Disc Radio The Compact Disc Radio combines the Electronic Stereo Radio with the Ford Compact Disc Player. Using the Controls on Your New Radio/CD Player Most of the features of this unit work for both radio and CD operation. Also, some of the knobs and buttons control several different functions, so be sure to read all of the operating instructions carefully.

  • Page 27: Electronic Sound Systems

    Electronic Sound Systems How to tune radio stations There are four ways for you to tune in a particular station. You can manually locate the station using the “SCAN/TUNE” button, “SEEK” the station, “SCAN” to the station or select the station by using the memory buttons, which you can set to any desired frequency.
  • Page 28 Using the “SCAN/TUNE” button to scan radio stations Pressing the “SCAN/TUNE” button once enters the scan mode (display will indicate “SCN”). Pushing the top ( a ) half of the “SEEK” button will begin the scan mode up the frequency band, stopping on each listenable station for approximately five seconds.

  • Page 29: Audio

    Electronic Sound Systems Activate Auto Memory Store by pushing the “AUTO PRESET” button once. Your radio will set the first five strong stations of the band you are in (AM, FM1 or FM2) into the memory buttons. The display will show “AUTO,” then run through the frequencies, stopping momentarily on the stations being set into the memory buttons.
  • Page 30 Adjusting speaker balance Balance control allows you to adjust the sound distribution between the right and left speakers. Push the “AUDIO” button repeatedly until the display button reads “BAL”. Push the top (+) of the “VOLUME” button to shift the sound to the right speakers, and push the bottom ( ) to shift the sound to the left speakers.
  • Page 32 Ford Compact Disc Player The Ford Compact Disc Player operates when the Audio System is on and a disc is inserted (label side up). Handle the disc by its edge only. (Be sure to read and follow all of the care and cleaning instructions under How To Take Care of and Clean Your CD Player and Discs in this section.) The digital display on your CD player shows the track...
  • Page 33 Electronic Sound Systems How to stop and restart the CD player When a disc is loaded, the unit automatically enters the play mode and the play indicator ( a ) illuminates. To stop temporarily, press the “PLAY/STOP” button or the “AM/FM” button.
  • Page 34 A “1” and “0:00” will appear in the display when the beginning of the disc is reached by pressing the rewind f side of the button. Using the “SCAN” function Press the “SCAN” button to enter the scan mode. The CD player will begin scanning the disc, stopping on each listenable track for approximately eight seconds.
  • Page 35 Electronic Sound Systems Shuffle and Scan Both the shuffle and scan features can be activated simultaneously. In this mode, the player will randomly pick a selection and play the first eight seconds. This process is continued until either the “SCAN” button or “SHUFFLE” button is pressed a second time.
  • Page 36 Do not expose the disc to direct sunlight or heat sources such as defroster and floor heating ducts. Do not leave any discs in a parked car in direct sunlight where there may be a considerable rise in temperature or damage may result. After playing, store the disc in its case.
  • Page 37 Electronic Sound Systems If play does not begin after the CD button is pushed: The radio is not on. The unit is in the stop mode. Moisture may have condensed on the lenses within the unit. If this occurs, remove the disc and wait approximately an hour until the moisture evaporates.
  • Page 40 Electronic Stereo and Stereo Cassette Radios Both the Electronic Stereo Radio and Cassette Radio offer full electronic tuning with new soft touch controls. Using the Controls on Your New Radio How to turn the radio on and adjust the volume Press the “POWER”...
  • Page 41 Electronic Sound Systems How to tune radio stations (Stereo Radio) Using the “TUNE” function You can change the frequency up or down one increment at a time by pressing and releasing either the right (+) or left ( ) side of the “TUNE” button. To change frequencies quickly, press and hold down either the right or left side of the “TUNE”...
  • Page 42 Using the “SEEK” function This feature on your radio allows you to automatically select listenable stations up or down the frequency band. Press the right ( a ) side of the “SEEK” button to select the next listenable station up the frequency band. Press the left ( b ) side of the button to select the next listenable station down the frequency band.
  • Page 43 Electronic Sound Systems Adjusting the tone balance and speaker output of your radio Increasing or decreasing bass response Push the “AUDIO” button repeatedly until the display reads “BASS.” Push the right (+) side of the “VOLUME” button to increase bass (more “lows”), and push the left ( ) side to decrease bass (less “lows”).
  • Page 44 Using the Controls of Your Cassette Tape Player NOTE: Radio power must be on to use the cassette tape player. How to insert a tape Insert a cassette (with the open edge to the right) firmly into the tape door opening, making sure the cassette is completely in and “seated.”...
  • Page 45 Electronic Sound Systems How to eject the tape To stop the tape and eject the cassette, press the eject (i) button. The radio will resume playing. Using the Dolby B noise reduction feature NOTE: Noise reduction system manufactured under license from Dolby Labs Licensing Corporation.
  • Page 46 Do not leave a tape in the cassette tape player when not in use. High heat in the vehicle can cause the cassette to warp. Using the Power Antenna The power antenna will automatically rise when your radio is turned on and the ignition is in the ON or ACC position. It will lower when either the radio or the ignition is turned off.
  • Page 47 Electronic Sound Systems Terrain The terrain (hilly, mountainous, tall buildings) of the area over which the signal travels may prevent the FM signal from being noise-free. Rounded off frequencies Some FM radio stations advertise a “rounded-off” frequency which is not the frequency they actually broadcast on. For example, a radio station that is assigned a frequency of 98.7 MHz may call itself “Radio 99”...

  • Page 48: Controls And Features

    Controls and Features The Climate Control Systems Your vehicle has one of the following: Heating Only System (Without Air Conditioning) Heating and Air Conditioning System If you are not sure which system your vehicle has, see the diagrams on the following pages. Heating Only System The control for your heater system is located at the center of the instrument panel below the radio.
  • Page 49 Your vehicle also has small demister openings on each front door near the window. This allows a small amount of air flow to be directed onto the door glass to reduce fogging whenever the heater system is operating. The temperature control is located at the right side of the control with a broken RED and BLUE band around the top and sides.

  • Page 50: Controls And Features

    Controls and Features FLR/DEF Select FLR/DEF to get air to the floor and windshield defrosters at the same time. V DEF Select V DEF to obtain maximum air flow to the windshield. Rotate the temperature control into the RED area for the air temperature required to defrost.
  • Page 51 Air conditioning Select A/C to get refrigerated outside air through the instrument panel registers. The A/C position is used for cooling except when extremely hot or fast cooling of the vehicle is needed. Then, select MAX A/C for fast cooling and return to A/C when you are comfortable.
  • Page 52 Controls and Features Passenger Compartment Air Filter (if equipped) Your vehicle may have an air filter that removes pollen and road dust from outside air before it is directed to the interior of the vehicle. For maintenance of this filter, see the Maintenance and Care chapter.

  • Page 53: The Interior And Exterior Lights

    NOTE: Never use sharp instruments or window cleaners with abrasives to clean the inside of your rear window. If you do, you may damage the heating elements that are bonded to the inside of the rear window and cause damage to the rear window defroster. The Interior and Exterior Lights Turning On the Exterior Lights To turn on your headlamps, parking lamps, and tail lamps, use...
  • Page 54 Controls and Features Fog Lamps (If equipped) The fog lamps act as a supplement to the low beam headlamps under limited visibility conditions such as rain, snow, dust or fog. The fog lamps operate only when the low beam headlamps are on.
  • Page 55 RWARNING The Daytime Running Light (DRL) system will not illuminate the tail lamps and parking lamps. Turn on your headlamps at dusk. Failure to do so may result in a collision. Lighting Up the Interior and Instrument Panel When either front door is opened, the footwell lights and the door courtesy lights come on.

  • Page 56: Storage Compartments

    Controls and Features Clock The digital clock To set the hour, press and hold the hour button. When the desired hour appears, release the button. To set the minutes, press and hold the minute button. When the desired minute appears, release the button. To switch between a 12-hour clock and a 24-hour clock, press both the hour and minute buttons at the same time.
  • Page 57 Ignition Understanding the Positions of the Ignition The positions of the key in the ignition LOCK and ACCESSORY lock the gearshift for all vehicles with an automatic transaxle. RWARNING LOCK position does not lock the gearshift on floor-mounted manual transaxle gearshifts. If the parking brake is not set and the gearshift is moved out of gear, your vehicle may move unexpectedly and injure someone.
  • Page 58 Controls and Features can use ACCESSORY to turn on the radio without starting the engine. ON allows you to test your vehicle’s warning lights (except the brake system warning light) to make sure they work before you start the engine. The key returns to the ON position once the engine is started and remains in this position while the engine runs.
  • Page 59 If the driver’s door is open while the key is still in the ignition, a warning chime sounds. RWARNING Always set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park) (automatic transaxle) or in 1 (First) (manual transaxle). RWARNING Do not leave children, unreliable adults, or pets unattended in your vehicle.
  • Page 60 Controls and Features The Turn Signal Lever You can use the turn signal lever on the left side of the steering column to: operate the turn signals and cornering lamps turn the high beams on/off flash the lamps Turn Signals The turn signal lever Move the lever up to signal a right turn.

  • Page 61: Windshield Wipers And Washer

    High Beams and Flashing the Lamps To turn on the high beams, turn the headlamp control knob to the headlamp ON position and push the turn signal lever away from you until it latches. When the high beams are on, the high beam indicator light on the instrument cluster comes on.
  • Page 62 Controls and Features Windshield Washer When the lever is pulled to activate the windshield washer, the wipers operate for about three cycles after the spray stops. Washing the windshield Do not try to clean the windshield when the washer fluid container is empty or activate the washers at any time for more than 15 seconds continuously.
  • Page 63 Hazard Flasher The hazard flasher serves as a warning to other drivers to be careful when approaching or passing your vehicle. Using the hazard flasher switch Horn To sound the horn, push the pad in the center of the steering wheel.
  • Page 64 Controls and Features Tilt Steering (If equipped) RWARNING Never adjust the steering column/wheel when the vehicle is moving. You could lose control of the vehicle and injure someone. The lever to tilt the steering wheel To change the position of the steering wheel, pull down the knob on the bottom left-hand side of the column to extend the lever.
  • Page 65 Speed Control (If equipped) The speed control switches on the steering wheel To Turn Speed Control On Press the on button. The speed of the vehicle cannot be automatically controlled until the vehicle speed is at or above 30 mph (48 km/h). RWARNING Do not use the speed control in heavy traffic or on roads that are winding, slippery, or unpaved.
  • Page 66 Controls and Features If you drive up or down a steep hill, your vehicle may momentarily slow down or speed up, even though the speed control is on. This is normal. NOTE: If your vehicle is equipped with an automatic transaxle, and if your speed increases above your set speed while driving in Overdrive on a downhill grade, you may want to turn the Overdrive off and...

  • Page 67: Dome Lamp

    The vehicle speed can also be decreased by momentarily depressing the Coast switch (Tap down). Each tap will decrease the speed by approximately 1 mph (1.6 km/h). Resume feature The speed control system will be disengaged as soon as the brake or clutch pedal is depressed.
  • Page 68 Controls and Features Turning On the Map Lamps (If equipped) Your vehicle may have a map lamp for the passenger and one for the driver. Turning on the map lamps Moon Roof (If equipped) You can move the moon roof back to open the glass panel, or you can tilt it up to ventilate the vehicle.
  • Page 69 The map lamps and the switch for the moon roof To open the moon roof, press and hold the rear portion of the switch. The glass panel will move to the open position and stop. To close the moon roof, press and hold the front portion of the switch.
  • Page 70 Controls and Features The moon roof RWARNING Do not let children play with the moon roof. They may seriously hurt themselves. Sliding Shade The moon roof has a sliding shade that you can manually open or close to block the sun when the glass panel is shut. To close the sliding shade, pull the shade toward the front of the vehicle.

  • Page 71: Sun Visors

    Sun Visors Illuminated Visor Mirror (If equipped) Your vehicle may have lighted mirrors on the sun visors. The mirror is lit by sliding open the mirror cover. The visor mirror Doors Childproof Locks for the Rear Doors In addition to standard or power locks, your vehicle has childproof locks for the rear doors.
  • Page 72 Controls and Features The childproof locks for the rear door To set the childproof lock on each rear door, open the rear door. Find the lever at the black label with word LOCKED in white letters. Move the lever toward the inside of the door. To release the childproof lock, open the rear door from the outside.
  • Page 73 The power door lock on the driver’s door Windows Power Windows (If equipped) Each door has a power control that opens and closes the window on that door. The driver’s door has a master control panel that operates all four windows. In order to use your power window controls, the ignition switch must be in the ON position.
  • Page 74 Controls and Features The master controls on the driver’s door RWARNING Do not let children play with the power windows. One-touch-down window The one-touch-down feature allows you to completely open the driver’s window by briefly pressing and releasing the bottom of the window switch.
  • Page 75 Mirrors Side View Mirrors The standard side view mirrors are manually adjusted by using the remote knobs. The knob on each door adjusts the mirror on that side of the vehicle. Move the control knob in the direction you want to move the mirror. The left side mirror control (right side similar) Dual electric remote control mirrors (if equipped) The control for adjusting the electric side view mirrors is on the...
  • Page 76 Controls and Features Electric remote control mirror knob Turn the knob back to the middle position to keep the mirror in place. The side view mirror on the right is a convex mirror. This mirror gives you a wider view of the lanes on your right and behind you.
  • Page 77 Console Your vehicle may have a full console. The full console has the following features: The features on the full console Cupholder with Full Console To raise the pop-up cup holder, push and release the cupholder door, then unfold the holder.

  • Page 78: Floor Mats

    Controls and Features Floor Mats Positive retention floor mat (If equipped) (Standard in Canada) Position the floor mat in the footwell. Place the mat eyelet over the pointed end of the retention post from the rear and rotate forward to install. Adjust the floor mat position to allow proper operation of accelerator pedal, brake pedal and clutch pedal.
  • Page 79 Trunk To open the trunk manually, use the oval key. Remote Trunk Release (If equipped) The remote trunk release is on the floor to the left of the driver’s seat. The remote trunk release You can disable the remote trunk release. If you depress the lever on the trunk latch that is marked in orange before closing the trunk, the trunk can only be opened with the key.
  • Page 80 Controls and Features Remote Entry System (If equipped) If your vehicle has the remote entry system, you can lock and unlock the vehicle doors and open the trunk without using a key. The remote also has a personal alarm feature. The controls for the system are located on the hand held transmitter(s) that came with your vehicle.
  • Page 81 Unlocking the doors and opening the trunk To unlock the driver’s door, press the UNLOCK control. To unlock the other doors, press the UNLOCK control a second time within five seconds of unlocking the driver’s door. To open the trunk, press the TRUNK control. When you use the remote entry UNLOCK, TRUNK or PANIC controls, the illuminated entry system turns on the interior lights for 12 seconds.
  • Page 82 Replacement batteries can be purchased at most pharmacies, watch stores or at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. NOTE: The operating range of the remote entry system can also be affected by weather conditions (such as very cold temperatures) or structures around the vehicle (buildings, other vehicles, radio towers, etc.).
  • Page 83 Replacement/additional transmitters In the event a transmitter is lost, return the remaining transmitters to your dealer for reprogramming of your remote entry system. This is necessary to prevent further unauthorized use of the lost transmitter. Additional transmitters may be purchased from your dealer (remote entry system will work with up to four transmitters).

  • Page 84: Seating And Safety Restraints

    Seating and Safety Restraints Seats Head Restraints If you use them properly, head restraints will help protect your head and neck in a collision. A head restraint helps protect you best if you position it behind your head and not behind your neck. If your vehicle has the four-way head restraint, you can adjust it in four directions.
  • Page 85 Manual Seats Manual seat adjustment RWARNING Never adjust the driver’s seat or seatback when the vehicle is moving. RWARNING Always drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lap belt snug and low across the hips.
  • Page 86 Seating and Safety Restraints Power Seats (If equipped) If your vehicle has power seats, you can raise or lower the whole front seat, move the seat forward or backward and tilt the front or back of the seat up or down. The seat base controls on the driver’s seat To move the seat forward or back, slide the seat base control button forward or back.
  • Page 87 Power seatback The seatback controls on the driver’s seat To tilt the seatback forward or back, slide the top part of the top button forward or back. To inflate or deflate the lumbar support pads, slide the bottom of the button forward or back.
  • Page 88 Seating and Safety Restraints Folding Rear Seats (If equipped) The release knobs for the split rear folding seatbacks are in the trunk. Pull the knob to fold down the seat. To raise the rear seatback, push the seatback upward until it locks in place.
  • Page 89 Important Safety Belt Information The use of safety belts helps to restrain you and your passengers in case of a collision. In most states and in Canada the law requires their use. Safety belts provide best restraint when: the seatback is upright the occupant is sitting upright (not slouched) the lap belt is snug and low on the hips the shoulder belt is snug against the chest...
  • Page 90 Seating and Safety Restraints See the following sections in this chapter for directions on how to properly use these safety belts. Also see Safety Restraints for Children in this chapter for special instructions about using safety belts for children. RWARNING Always drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lap belt snug and low across the hips.

  • Page 91: Combination Lap And Shoulder Belts

    RWARNING 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. RWARNING Lock the doors of your vehicle before driving to lessen the risk of the door coming open in a collision.
  • Page 92 Seating and Safety Restraints Fastening the front seat lap and shoulder belt NOTE: Be sure to read and understand Important Safety Belt Information in this chapter. To adjust the lap part of the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt until the lap belt fits snugly and as low as possible around your hips.
  • Page 93 Dual Locking Mode Lap/Shoulder Belt Retractor The front passenger seat and the rear outer seat combination lap and shoulder belts are equipped with a dual locking mode retractor on the shoulder belt portion of the lap/shoulder belt. This retractor can be switched from vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking mode to automatic locking mode by pulling the belt webbing all of the way out of the retractor.
  • Page 94 Seating and Safety Restraints Pull up on the shoulder belt to remove slack in the lap belt. NOTE: When the combination lap/shoulder belt is unbuckled and allowed to retract completely, the retractor will switch to the vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking mode.

  • Page 95: Lap Belts

    Figure 2 — Adjusting the shoulder belt height Make sure the adjuster is firmly in one of the four positions. The belt should be adjusted up or down until the belt rests on your shoulder near your neck. RWARNING Position the shoulder belt height adjuster so that the belt rests across the middle of your shoulder.
  • Page 96 Seating and Safety Restraints If you need to lengthen the belt, unfasten it and tip the belt tongue at a right angle to the belt. Pull the belt tongue over your lap until it reaches the buckle. If you need to shorten the belt, pull on the loose end of the webbing until the belt fits snugly.

  • Page 97: Safety Belt Maintenance

    RWARNING Failure to follow these instructions will affect the performance of the safety belts and increase the risk of personal injury. Safety Belt Maintenance Check the safety belt systems periodically to make sure that they work properly and are not damaged. Ford recommends that all safety belt assemblies and attaching hardware, should be inspected after any collision.
  • Page 98 Seating and Safety Restraints RWARNING Whenever the orange portion of the label is visible, the safety belt must be replaced. The warning label on the front seat safety belt buckle...

  • Page 99: Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System

    Failure to follow these instructions may increase the risk of personal injury in the event of a collision. RWARNING Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the air bag Supplemental Restraint System or its fuses. See your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer.
  • Page 100 Seating and Safety Restraints RWARNING If you are close to an inflating air bag, it could seriously injure you. Position your seat such that it is as far back from the steering wheel as possible but still allows you to properly control the vehicle. Children and Air Bags NOTE: For additional important safety information on the proper use of seat belts, child seats, and infant seats,...
  • Page 101 smell the burnt propellant. This is normal. The residue may consist of cornstarch or talcum powder (which is used to lubricate the air bag) or sodium compounds, such as sodium carbonates (e.g. baking soda) that result from the combustion process that inflates the air bag. Small amounts of sodium hydroxide may be present which may irritate the skin and eyes, but none of the residue is toxic.

  • Page 102: Safety Restraints For Children

    Disposal of Air Bags and Air Bag Equipped Vehicles For disposal of air bags or air bag equipped vehicles, see your local Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. Air bags MUST BE disposed of by qualified personnel. Safety Restraints for Children In the U.S.
  • Page 103 RWARNING 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. RWARNING Cargo should always be secured to prevent it from shifting and causing damage to the vehicle or harm to passengers.
  • Page 104 Seating and Safety Restraints Safety Seats for Children Use a safety seat that is recommended for the size and weight of the child. Always follow the safety seat manufacturer’s instructions when installing and using the safety seat. Ford recommends the use of a child safety seat having a top tether strap.
  • Page 105 All child restraint systems are designed to be secured in vehicle seats by lap belts or by the lap portion of a lap-shoulder belt. RWARNING If you do not properly secure the safety seat, the child occupying the seat may be injured during a collision or sudden stop.
  • Page 106 Seating and Safety Restraints Safety belt buckle placement for child seats Installing Child Safety Seats in the Front Passenger Seat and Outer Rear Seating Positions Your vehicle is equipped with a dual locking mode retractor on the shoulder belt portion of the combination lap/shoulder safety belt for the right front seat passenger and rear outer passengers.
  • Page 107 While holding the shoulder and lap belt portions together, route the tongue through the child seat according to the child seat manufacturer’s instructions. See Figure 2. Be sure the belt webbing is not twisted, and insert the tongue into the buckle. See Figure 3.
  • Page 108 Seating and Safety Restraints...
  • Page 110 Seating and Safety Restraints Grasp the shoulder portion of the belt and pull downward until all of the belt is extracted from the reel and a click is heard. At this time the retractor is in the automatic locking mode (child restraint mode). See Figure 4.
  • Page 111 Allow the belt to retract. Pull up on the shoulder webbing. A clicking sound will be heard as the belt retracts. This indicates the retractor is in the automatic locking mode. Push down on the child seat while you pull up on the belt to remove any slack in the belt.
  • Page 112 Seating and Safety Restraints...
  • Page 113 Before placing the child in the child seat, forcibly tilt the seat from side to side, and tug it forward to make sure that the seat is securely held in place. See Figure 7.
  • Page 114 Seating and Safety Restraints Double check that the retractor is in the automatic locking mode. Try to pull more belt out of the retractor. If you cannot, the belt is in the automatic locking mode. See Figure 8. Check to make sure that the child seat is properly secured prior to each use.
  • Page 115 RWARNING Carefully follow all of the manufacturer’s instructions included with the safety seat you put in your vehicle. If you do not install and use the safety seat properly, the child may be injured in a sudden stop or collision. Installing Child Safety Seats in the Rear Center Seating Position Some child safety seats may be too wide to fit in the rear center...
  • Page 116 If tether anchorage hardware is required for the child safety seat, use only the tether anchor kit available at no charge from any Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer (Base part number 613D74). Safety Belts for Children Children who are too large for child safety seats should always wear safety belts.
  • Page 117 To improve the fit of lap and shoulder belts on children who have outgrown child safety seats, Ford recommends use of a belt-positioning booster seat that is labelled as conforming to all Federal motor vehicle safety standards. Belt-positioning booster seats raise the child and provide a shorter, firmer seating cushion that encourages safer seating posture and better fit of lap and shoulder belts on the child.

  • Page 118: Starting

    Starting Fuel-Injected Engines When starting a fuel-injected engine, the most important thing to remember is to avoid pressing down on the accelerator before or during starting. Only use the accelerator when you have problems getting your vehicle started. See Starting Your Engine in this chapter for details about when to use the accelerator while you start your vehicle.
  • Page 119 Starting Your Engine To start your engine: Follow the steps under Preparing to Start Your Vehicle at the beginning of this section. Keep your foot on the brake pedal and turn the ignition key to the ON position. DO NOT depress the accelerator pedal when starting your engine.
  • Page 120 Starting At temperatures between -10˚F (-23˚C) and 10˚F (-12˚C): Turn the key to ON, and crank the engine for five (5) seconds. If the engine fails to start, continue to crank and depress the accelerator about 1/4 of the way down and hold that position until the engine starts.
  • Page 121 Whenever you start your vehicle, release the key as soon as the engine starts. Excessive cranking could damage the starter. After you start the engine, let it idle for a few seconds. Keep your foot on the brake pedal and put the gearshift lever in gear. Release the parking brake.
  • Page 122 Starting RWARNING 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. RWARNING Do not park, idle, or drive your vehicle in dry grass or other dry ground cover.
  • Page 123 Guarding Against Exhaust Fumes Carbon monoxide, although colorless and odorless, is present in exhaust fumes. Take precautions to avoid its dangerous effects. RWARNING Do not start your vehicle in a closed garage or in other enclosed areas. Exhaust fumes can be toxic. Always open the garage door before you start the engine.

  • Page 124: Driving

    Driving Procedures for driving your vehicle will vary depending on which type of transaxle your vehicle has. You may be familiar with the term “transmission.” We use transaxle because it is a more accurate term for vehicles that have front-wheel drive. Your vehicle will have one of the following types of transaxles: an automatic overdrive transaxle with transaxle control switch, or...
  • Page 125 Do not drive with your foot resting on the brake pedal; you will wear out the linings and increase your vehicle’s stopping distance. Brake rotor damage may also eventually occur. NOTE: If you are driving down a long or steep hill, shift to a lower gear and do not apply your brakes continuously.
  • Page 126 Driving Your vehicle may have an Anti-lock Brake System feature. If it does, check the Anti-lock Brake System light each time you start the engine. If it stays on longer than three (3) seconds, shut off the engine and restart. If it stays on, that means the Anti-lock Brake feature is not working and should be serviced immediately to restore the benefits of the Anti-lock feature.
  • Page 127 Parking Brake The parking brake should be used whenever you park your vehicle. The parking brake lever is located between the front seats. To set the parking brake, put your foot on the brake pedal while pulling the parking brake handle fully and firmly upward. To release the parking brake, put your foot on the brake pedal, pull the handle upward and push the button.
  • Page 128 Driving Always check the Brake Warning Light each time you start your engine. Driving with the parking brake on will cause the brakes to wear out quickly and will reduce the fuel economy. Traction Control (If equipped) The traction control system prevents the wheels from spinning on slippery roads.

  • Page 129: Steering Your Vehicle

    Steering Your Vehicle Your vehicle comes with power steering. Power steering uses energy from the engine to help steer your vehicle. If the amount of effort needed to steer your vehicle changes at a constant vehicle speed, have the power steering system checked. 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.
  • Page 130 Driving To operate: Start the engine. Depress and hold the brake pedal. Move the gearshift lever out of P (Park). Your vehicle is equipped with a Brake Shift Interlock safety feature. This feature prevents the gearshift from being moved from the P (Park) position until the brake pedal is depressed. This feature is active when the ignition is in the ON position.
  • Page 131 Overriding the brake shift interlock The console-mounted gearshift will lock when you turn the key to the LOCK position. When the gearshift is in any position except P (Park), the ignition key cannot be turned to LOCK or removed from the steering column. TO REMOVE THE KEY, the gearshift lever must be in P (Park).
  • Page 132 Driving Console-mounted automatic transaxle shift control lever R (Reverse) With the gearshift in the R (Reverse) position, the vehicle will move backward. You should always come to a complete stop before shifting into or out of R (Reverse). N (Neutral) In N (Neutral), the wheels of the transaxle are not locked.
  • Page 133 pressed, the transaxle control indicator light will illuminate (O/D OFF) on the instrument panel. When this O/D OFF is illuminated the transaxle will upshift and downshift from first through third gears and provide coast braking in second and third gears. To return the transaxle to normal operation (first through fourth gears) depress the TCS again.
  • Page 134 Driving When to use 2 (Second) When your vehicle is in 2 (Second), it automatically starts off in second gear. Use 2 (Second) to help drive up moderately steep hills or restart from a standstill on slippery roads. It prevents the transaxle from frequently shifting up and down.

  • Page 135: Driving With A Manual Transaxle

    You can tell the gearshift is securely latched when the push button has popped out. In this position the gear shift selector lever cannot be moved unless the button is pushed in. Driving with a Manual Transaxle Using the Clutch In order to start the vehicle, the clutch pedal must be fully depressed to the floor.
  • Page 136 Driving The positions of the floor-mounted gearshift Always push the clutch pedal all the way to the floor when you shift. You should upshift according to the speeds given in the shift speed chart. Backing up To shift into R (Reverse): Completely stop your vehicle.
  • Page 137 Upshifting Most of the time, you should upshift at the following speeds:...
  • Page 138 Driving Downshifting When you slow down or climb a steep hill, always downshift before the engine starts to lose power. Downshifting reduces the chance of stalling and gives your vehicle better acceleration to increase speed again. When you drive down steep hills, downshifting helps you keep a safe speed and helps prevent unnecessary wear on the brakes.
  • Page 139 RWARNING Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the Safety Compliance Certification Label. Limiting Your Vehicle’s Load The load that you add to your vehicle must not exceed the maximum load stated on the Safety Compliance Certification Label attached to the left front door pillar or the left front door lock facing.

  • Page 140: Trailer Towing

    Your vehicle does not come from the factory fully equipped to tow. No towing packages are available through Ford or Lincoln/Mercury dealers. Because towing a trailer puts extra strain on your vehicle, you must follow certain precautions for your safety and the good of your vehicle: Stay within the load limits when you tow.
  • Page 141 If you are not certain that you are using the right equipment in the proper manner, see your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. Do not use hitches that clamp onto your vehicle’s bumper. The...
  • Page 142 Driving Using the hitch Your vehicle uses a load carrying hitch. Because this type of hitch places the tongue load of a trailer on the rear wheels of your vehicle, you must distribute the load in your trailer so that 10 to 15% of the total weight of the trailer is on the tongue.
  • Page 143 Connecting the trailer’s brakes Electric brakes and manual, automatic, or surge-type hydraulic brakes are safe if you install them properly and adjust them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure that your trailer’s brakes meet local and federal regulations. RWARNING Do not connect a trailer’s hydraulic brake system directly to your vehicle’s brake system.
  • Page 144 Driving When you tow up or down steep hills, move the manual transaxle gearshift to a lower gear. This will increase engine power on upgrades and engine braking on downgrades. When you tow in steep hills, move the automatic transaxle to 1 (First) when descending.
  • Page 145 Do not quickly move the steering wheel unless necessary. Drive slower than you normally would. Give your vehicle more distance to stop. Pump the brake pedal steadily and evenly to avoid locking your wheels. Consider using one of the lower gears. RWARNING To avoid losing control on slippery roads, do not downshift into 1 (First) with the automatic transaxle...
  • Page 146 Driving If you have an automatic transaxle and your vehicle gets stuck (for example, in mud or snow), you may try to “rock” it out of the spot. Shift, in a steady rhythm, between forward and reverse gears. While in each gear, press lightly on the accelerator and release.

  • Page 147: Roadside Emergencies

    Roadside Emergencies Hazard Flasher The flashers work whether your vehicle is running or not. The flashers work for up to two hours when the battery is fully charged and in good condition without draining the battery excessively. If the flashers run for longer than two hours or if the battery is not fully charged, the battery power can be drained.
  • Page 148 The left-hand trim panel in the driver’s footwell RWARNING If you see or smell fuel, do not reset the switch or try to start your vehicle. Have all the passengers get out of the vehicle and call the local fire department or a towing service.
  • Page 149 Roadside Emergencies Turn the ignition key to the ON position for a few seconds, then turn it to the OFF position. Check under the vehicle again for leaking fuel. If you see or smell fuel, do not start your vehicle again. If you do not see or smell fuel, you can try to start your vehicle again.
  • Page 150 The Power Distribution Box Fuses and Relays The power distribution box location...
  • Page 151 Roadside Emergencies The power distribution box fuses and relays...
  • Page 152 Spare fuses are located in the power distribution box under the hood.
  • Page 153 Roadside Emergencies...
  • Page 154 The Instrument Panel Fuses, Circuit Breakers and Relays The instrument panel fuse panel is underneath the instrument panel on the left side. To open it, reach under the instrument panel and push the release button to the right of the fuse panel. The instrument panel fuse panel location...
  • Page 155 Roadside Emergencies The instrument panel fuses...
  • Page 157 Roadside Emergencies Relays Outside the Fuse Boxes Checking and Replacing Fuses Use the charts to decide which fuse you should check. On the fuse panel decal located on the cover of the power distribution box or on the end of the instrument panel fuse panel, find the number of the fuse you want to check.
  • Page 158 Replace the fuse with one that has the right amperage rating. See the following chart. The side view of a typical fuse RWARNING 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.

  • Page 159: Changing A Tire

    Roadside Emergencies Circuit Breakers If you need to check a circuit breaker that is on the instrument panel fuse panel, see Checking and replacing fuses to find out how to locate the fuse panel and pull it down. Diagnostic equipment is needed to check circuit breakers. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Page 160 RWARNING If you use the temporary spare tire continuously or do not follow these precautions, the tire could fail, causing you to lose control of the vehicle, possibly injuring yourself or others. When you drive with the temporary spare tire, DO NOT: exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) under any circumstances.
  • Page 161 Roadside Emergencies Spare Tire Location The spare tire is stored under the carpet on the floor of the trunk. You will find additional instructions for the spare tire on the wheel decal (located on the temporary spare wheel). The temporary spare tire Preparing to Change the Tire Make sure that your vehicle will not move or roll.
  • Page 162 When one of the front wheels is off the ground, the transaxle alone will not prevent the vehicle from moving or slipping off the jack, even if the vehicle is in P (Automatic) or 1 (Manual). To prevent the vehicle from moving when you change one of the front tires, put a block behind the wheel that is diagonally opposite the tire.
  • Page 163 Roadside Emergencies RWARNING To lessen the risk of personal injury, do not put any part of your body under the vehicle while changing a tire. Do not start the engine when your vehicle is on the jack. The jack is only meant for changing the tire. The notches for the jack Turn the jack handle clockwise until the wheel clears the ground.
  • Page 164 Lower the vehicle by turning the jack handle counterclockwise. Remove the jack and fully tighten the lug nuts in the order shown in the following illustration. As soon as possible, have your dealer or a qualified service technician check the lug nuts for proper torque specifications.
  • Page 165 NOTE: If you lose your lug wrench/lug nut key assembly, see your nearest Ford or Lincoln/Mercury dealer who has access to a master set of keys. NOTE: DO NOT USE A POWER IMPACT WRENCH ON THE LUG NUT KEY.

  • Page 166: Jump-Starting Your Vehicle

    Removing the anti-theft lug nut Insert the key over the locking lug nut. Make sure that you hold the key square to the lug nut. If you hold the key on an angle, you may damage the key and the lug nut. Place the lug nut wrench over the lug nut key and apply pressure on the key with the wrench.
  • Page 167 Roadside Emergencies RWARNING Applying too much pressure on the ends when lifting a battery could cause acid to spill. Lift the battery with a carrier or with your hands on the opposite corners. RWARNING Batteries contain sulfuric acid which burns skin, eyes, and clothing.
  • Page 168 Check all battery terminals and remove any excessive corrosion before you attach the jumper cables. Turn on the heater fan in both vehicles. Press the DEFROST button. Turn off all other switches and gauges. Connecting the jumper cables Connect one end of the first jumper cable to the positive (+) terminal of the discharged battery.
  • Page 169 Roadside Emergencies Sequence for connecting jumper cables...
  • Page 170 Jump-Starting Make sure that the jumper cables are not in the way of moving engine parts, then start the booster vehicle. Run the engine at a moderate speed. Let the discharged battery charge for a few minutes and then start the disabled vehicle. It may take a couple of tries before the vehicle starts.

  • Page 171: Towing Your Vehicle

    Roadside Emergencies Towing Your Vehicle If you need to have your vehicle towed, contact a professional towing service or, if you are a member, your roadside assistance center.
  • Page 172 When calling for a tow truck, tell the operator what kind of vehicle you have. A towing manual is available from Ford Motor Company for all authorized tow truck operators. Have your tow truck driver refer to this manual for the proper hook-up and towing procedures for your vehicle.

  • Page 173: Maintenance And Care

    Maintenance and Care Service Made Easy Ford has two goals for servicing your vehicle. When we can, we design parts that do not need to be serviced. We want to make servicing your vehicle as easy as possible. To help you: We highlight do-it-yourself items in yellow in the engine compartment so that you can find them easily.
  • Page 174 NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive fluids in a responsible manner. Follow your community’s standards for disposing of these types of fluids. Call your local recycling center to find out about recycling automotive fluids. Precautions When Servicing Your Vehicle Be especially careful when inspecting or servicing your vehicle. Here are some general precautions for your safety: Do not work on a hot engine.
  • Page 175 Maintenance and Care Working with the engine off: Set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park) (automatic transaxle) or 1 (First) gear (manual transaxle). Remove the key from the ignition after you turn the engine off.

  • Page 176: Opening The Hood

    Opening the Hood Inside the vehicle, pull the hood release handle located under the bottom left corner of the instrument panel. The hood release under the instrument panel Go to the front of the vehicle and release the auxiliary latch that is located under the hood at the center of the vehicle.

  • Page 177: Engine Compartment

    Maintenance and Care Lift the hood and secure it in the open position with the prop rod. Make sure only the hole in the hood marked in yellow is used. When you close the hood, make sure the prop rod is in its retainer and that the hood latches securely.
  • Page 180 Engine Oil Recommendations We recommend using Motorcraft oil or an equivalent oil meeting Ford Specification WSS-M2C153-F and displaying the American Petroleum Institute CERTIFICATION MARK on the front of the container. The API Certification Mark Never use: “Non-Detergent” oils Oils labeled API SA, SB, SC, SD, SE, SF or SG Additional engine oil additives, oil treatments or engine treatments Engine oils with an SAE 5W-30 viscosity are PREFERRED for...
  • Page 181 Maintenance and Care Checking and Adding Engine Oil Since the proper amount of engine oil is important for safe engine operation, check the oil using the dipstick each time you put fuel in your vehicle. Remember the engine must be off, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be parked on level ground.
  • Page 182 Engine oil dipstick (2.5L engine) 2.0L engine: Carefully, pull the dipstick out again. If the oil level is below the lower notch, add engine oil as necessary. If the oil level is beyond the upper notch, engine damage and/or high oil comsumption may occur and some oil must be removed from the engine.
  • Page 183 Maintenance and Care Changing the Engine Oil and the Oil Filter Change the engine oil and oil filter per the following, whichever occurs first. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule booklet for additional information. NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive fluids in a responsible manner.

  • Page 184: Brake Fluid

    Brake Fluid Under normal circumstances, your vehicle should not use up brake fluid rapidly. However, expect the level of the brake fluid to slowly fall as you put more mileage on your vehicle and the brake lining wears. You should check the brake fluid at every scheduled engine oil change, but be sure to check it at least once a year.
  • Page 185 Maintenance and Care Do not fill the reservoir above the MAX line. If you find that the fluid level is excessively low — below the seam or ridge on the outside of the plastic reservoir — have the brake system inspected. RWARNING Do not let the reservoir for the master cylinder run dry.

  • Page 186: Windshield Washer Fluid

    Windshield Washer Fluid Washer Fluid Check the level of the windshield washer fluid every time you stop for fuel. The reservoir for washer fluid is located on the passenger’s side of the engine compartment. Visual inspection can determine if the washer fluid is adequate. Do not operate the washer when the reservoir is empty.

  • Page 187: Engine Coolant

    Maintenance and Care Use specially formulated windshield washer fluid rather than plain water, because specially formulated washer fluids contain additives that dissolve road grime. For safety reasons, washer fluids containing an appropriate antifreeze such as methanol should be used in freezing weather (temperatures below 32˚F [0˚C]).
  • Page 188 The engine coolant recovery reservoir (2.5L shown — 2.0L similar) Your vehicle’s coolant protects your engine from overheating in the summer and from freezing in the winter. Check the level of the coolant at least once a month. Simply look at the engine coolant reservoir located in the engine compartment.
  • Page 189 Maintenance and Care Adding Engine Coolant RWARNING Do not put engine coolant in the container for the windshield washer fluid. If sprayed on the windshield, engine coolant could make it difficult to see through the windshield. When the engine is cool, add a 50/50 mixture of engine coolant and water to the engine coolant recovery reservoir —...
  • Page 190 Recycled engine coolant Ford Motor Company recommends that Ford and Lincoln-Mercury dealers use recycled engine coolant produced by Ford-approved processes. Not all coolant recycling processes produce coolant which meets Ford specification ESE-M97B44-A, and use of such coolant may harm engine and cooling system components.

  • Page 191: Power Steering Fluid

    Maintenance and Care Severe winter climate If you drive in extremely cold climates (less than -34˚F [-36˚C]), it may be necessary to increase the coolant concentration above 50%. Refer to the chart on the coolant container to ensure the coolant concentration in your vehicle is such that the coolant will not freeze at the temperature level in which you drive during winter months.

  • Page 192: Automatic Transaxle Fluid

    Use only MERCON power steering fluid that meets Ford’s Specification or an equivalent. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Under normal circumstances, you do not need to check the fluid level of the transaxle, since your vehicle does not use up transaxle fluid. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule booklet for replacement intervals.
  • Page 193 Maintenance and Care Normal operating temperature is reached after driving approximately 20 miles (30 km). The fluid level should be within the crosshatched area on the dipstick. NOTE: If the vehicle has been operated for an extended period at high speeds, driven in city traffic during hot weather, or has been pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be turned off for about 30 minutes to allow the fluid to cool before checking.

  • Page 194: Manual Transaxle Fluid

    NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive fluids in a responsible manner. Follow your community’s standards for disposing of these types of fluids. Call your local recycling center to find out about recycling automotive fluids. Manual Transaxle Fluid The lubricant level and quality should not deteriorate under normal driving conditions.
  • Page 195 Maintenance and Care Check your battery’s electrolyte level, at least every 12 months or 12,000 miles (20,000 km), in temperatures above 90˚F (32˚C) and more often in temperatures above 90˚F (32˚C). Keep the electrolyte in each cell up to the “level” indicator. Do not overfill the battery cell.
  • Page 196 RWARNING Applying too much pressure on the ends when lifting a battery could cause acid to spill. Lift the battery with a carrier or with your hands on the opposite corners. Help Us Protect Our Environment Ford Motor Company strongly recommends that used lead-acid batteries be returned to an authorized recycling facility for disposal.
  • Page 197 Maintenance and Care If you do not let the engine relearn its idle, the idle quality of your vehicle may be adversely affected until the idle is relearned. Your vehicle will eventually relearn its idle while you drive it, but it takes much longer than if you use the previous procedure.
  • Page 198 Removing the grille The filter is in a housing at the back of the engine compartment, on the left side. Pull off the two clips on the sides of the housing. Slide out the housing and filter. Removing the passenger compartment air filter...

  • Page 199: Wiper Blades

    Maintenance and Care Slide the filter out of the housing, replace with the new filter, and slide the housing and passenger compartment air filter back into place. Reinstall the clips on the housing. Replace the grille and wiper arms. Wiper Blades Check the windshield wiper blades at least twice a year.
  • Page 200 Tires Checking Tire Pressure Use an accurate tire pressure gauge. Check the tire pressure when tires are cold, after the vehicle has been parked for at least one hour or has been driven less than 3 miles (5 km). Adjust tire pressure to recommended specifications found on the Safety Compliance Certification Label.
  • Page 201 Maintenance and Care Rotating the tires Replacing the Tires Replace any tires that show wear bands. When your tire shows a wear band, it has only 1/16 inch (2 mm) of tread left. A worn-out tire...
  • Page 202 Because your vehicle’s tires may wear unevenly, you may need to replace them before a wear band appears across the entire tread. RWARNING When replacing full size tires, never mix radial, bias-belted, or bias-type tires. Use only the tire sizes that are listed on the tire pressure decal.
  • Page 203 Maintenance and Care 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 204 Temperature A B C The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure.
  • Page 205 Maintenance and Care Snow Tires and Chains During the winter months in some climates, you may need to use snow tires and occasionally chains for your tires. RWARNING Snow tires must be the same size and grade as the tires you currently have on your vehicle.

  • Page 206: Filling The Fuel Tank

    Do not use chains on temporary spare tires. They may damage the vehicle and the tire. Remove tire chains at the first opportunity after using them on snow and ice. Do not use the chains on dry roads. Filling the Fuel Tank The fuel door is outside the car on the passenger side near the back.
  • Page 207 Maintenance and Care Put the nozzle all the way inside the fuel filler pipe before pumping the fuel. NOTE: If you spill any fuel on the body of your vehicle, clean it off immediately. The fuel may dull or soften the paint if you do not wash it off.
  • Page 208 Choosing the Right Fuel Use only UNLEADED FUEL. Using leaded fuel is prohibited by federal law and could damage your vehicle. The damage may not be covered by your warranty. Your vehicle was not designed to use fuel containing manganese-based additives such as MMT. Additionally, vehicles certified to California emission standards (indicated on the underhood Vehicle Emissions Control Information label) are designed to operate on California reformulated gasolines.
  • Page 209 Maintenance and Care Octane recommendation Your vehicle is designed to use regular gasoline with an (R+M)/2 octane rating of 87. We do not recommend gasolines labeled as “regular” in high altitude areas that are sold with octane ratings of 86 or even less. Typical octane rating label Do not be concerned if your vehicle sometimes knocks lightly.
  • Page 210 Fuel quality If you are experiencing starting, rough idle or hesitation problems try a different brand of fuel. If the condition persists, see your dealer or a qualified service technician. The American Automobile Manufacturers Association (AAMA) issued a gasoline specification to provide information on high quality fuels that optimize the performance of your vehicle.
  • Page 211 Maintenance and Care Safety Information Relating to Automotive Fuels RWARNING Automotive fuels can cause serious injury or death if misused or mishandled. Turn vehicle off when refueling. Do not smoke when refueling. Fuels are extremely flammable. Do not siphon any fuel by mouth. RWARNING Gasoline or gasoline blended with methanol can cause blindness and possible death when swallowed.
  • Page 212 Running Out of Fuel NOTE: Avoid running out of fuel because this situation may have an adverse effect on modern powertrain components. You may need to crank the engine several times before the fuel system starts to pump fuel from the tank to the engine. RWARNING Never pour fuel in the throttle body or attempt to start the engine with the air cleaner removed.
  • Page 213 Maintenance and Care Use these equations to calculate your fuel economy: English: MPG (total miles driven) (gallons used) Metric: L/100k (liters used) (100 kilometers) Comparisons With Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Transport Canada (TC) Fuel Economy Estimates EPA fuel economy figures are obtained from laboratory tests under simulated road conditions and may not reflect the actual conditions you experience or your style of driving.

  • Page 214: Emission Control System

    Self-Service Pointers If you choose to do your own fueling, you should also perform a few simple maintenance routines. This extra effort will save you additional money and contribute to the driving efficiency of your vehicle. The following procedures require only a tire gauge, a rag, an oil can spout and windshield washer fluid.
  • Page 215 Maintenance and Care To make sure that the catalytic converter and the other emission control parts continue to work properly: Use only unleaded fuel. Avoid running out of fuel. Do not turn off the ignition while your vehicle is moving, especially at high speeds.
  • Page 216 Do not make any unauthorized changes to your vehicle or engine. Changes that cause more unburned fuel to reach the exhaust system can increase the temperature of the engine or exhaust system. By law, anyone who manufactures, repairs, services, sells, leases, trades vehicles, or supervises a fleet of vehicles is not permitted to intentionally remove an emission control device or prevent it from working.
  • Page 217 Maintenance and Care OBD II Drive Cycle The driving modes required to reach the ready condition consist of a minimum of 30 minutes of city and highway driving as described below: At least twenty minutes driving in stop and go, city type traffic with at least four idle periods.
  • Page 218 The alignment of your headlamps should be checked if: oncoming motorists frequently signal you to turn off your vehicle’s high beams when you do not have the high beams the headlamps do not seem to give you enough light to see clearly at night the headlamps are not aligned so that they point slightly down and to the right.
  • Page 219 Maintenance and Care Removing the headlamp bulb Make sure that the headlamp knob is in the OFF position. Lift the hood and find the bulb in the headlamp socket. Remove the bulb assembly by turning it clockwise and pulling it out of the headlamp socket. Remove the L-shaped bulb by pressing the retaining clip at the base of the electrical connector and sliding the bulb out.
  • Page 220 High-Mount Brakelamp Bulbs From the back seat, remove the back of the brakelamp assembly. Depress the two retaining tabs on the ends of the assembly and pull off the back. Turn the burned-out bulb counterclockwise and pull it out. Push in the replacement bulb and turn it clockwise to lock it in the socket.
  • Page 221 Maintenance and Care Using the Right Bulbs...

  • Page 222: Cleaning Your Vehicle

    Cleaning Your Vehicle Pollen, bird droppings and tree sap can damage the paint, especially in hot weather. Wash your vehicle as often as necessary to keep it clean. Take similar precautions if your vehicle is exposed to chemical industrial fallout. Paint damage resulting from fallout is not related to a defect in paint materials or workmanship and therefore is not covered by warranty.
  • Page 223 Maintenance and Care Cleaning Plastic Parts Some of your vehicle’s exterior trim parts are plastic. Clean with a tar and road oil remover if necessary. Use a vinyl cleaner for routine cleaning. Do not clean plastic parts with thinners, solvents or petroleum-based cleaners.
  • Page 224 Fabric Remove dust and loose dirt with a whisk broom or a vacuum cleaner. Remove fresh spots immediately. Follow the directions that come with the cleaner. NOTE: Before using any cleaner, test it on a small, hidden area of fabric. If the fabric’s color or texture is adversely affected by a particular cleaner, do not use Cleaning the Engine A clean engine is more efficient because a buildup of grease and...

  • Page 225: Capacities And Specifications

    Capacities and Specifications Refill Capacities, Motorcraft Parts, and Lubricant Specifications Motorcraft Parts...
  • Page 226 Fluid Specifications and Capacities...
  • Page 227 Capacities and Specifications Lubricant Specifications...

  • Page 228: Vehicle Storage

    Vehicle Storage Maintenance Tips If you plan on storing your vehicle for an extended period of time (60 days or more), refer to the following maintenance recommendations to ensure your vehicle stays in good operating condition. General Store all vehicles in a dry, ventilated place. Protect from sunlight, if possible.
  • Page 229 Capacities and Specifications Engine Start engine every 15 days. Run at fast idle until it reaches normal operating temperature. With your foot on the brake, shift through all the gears while the engine is running. Fuel system Fill fuel tank with high-quality unleaded fuel until the first automatic shutoff of the fuel pump nozzle.
  • Page 230 Battery Check and recharge as necessary. Keep connections clean and covered with a light coat of grease. If storing your vehicle for more than 30 days without recharging the battery, it may be advisable to disconnect the battery cables to ensure battery charge is maintained for quick starting.

  • Page 231: Reporting Safety Defects

    Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only) Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only) If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Ford Motor Company.

  • Page 232: Customer Assistance

    To purchase Roadside Assistance coverages beyond this period (available through Ford Auto Club in the United States or Ford and Lincoln-Mercury dealers in Canada), contact your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. Additional Roadside Assistance coverage is unavailable in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
  • Page 233 You may, however, take your vehicle to any authorized Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. In most cases, your dealer will be able to resolve your concern. If you are not satisfied with the service you received from your dealership’s service department, talk to the service manager at...
  • Page 234 Customer Assistance If you live in Canada and have any questions or concerns that the dealership cannot answer, contact the Customer Assistance Centre. Please have the following information available when contacting Ford Customer Assistance: your telephone number (both business and home) the name of the dealer and the city where the dealership is located the year and make of your vehicle...
  • Page 235 If you still have a complaint involving a warranty dispute, you may wish to contact the Dispute Settlement Board (U.S. only) or the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP) in Canada. A warranty dispute must be submitted to the Dispute Settlement Board before taking action under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, or to the extent allowed by state law, before pursuing replacement or repurchase remedies provided by...
  • Page 236 What Kinds of Cases Does the Board Review? The Board reviews all warranty performance complaints on Ford, Mercury and Lincoln cars and Ford and Mercury light trucks under the new vehicle limited warranty that have not been resolved by either a dealer or Ford Motor Company,...
  • Page 237 How does the Board Work? The Board consists of: three consumer representatives a Ford or Lincoln/Mercury dealer Consumer candidates for Board membership are recruited and trained by an independent consulting firm. Dealers are chosen because of their business leadership qualities.
  • Page 238 Customer Assistance a brief description of your unresolved concern a brief summary of the action taken with the dealer and Ford Motor Company the names (if known) of all the people you contacted at the dealership a description of the action you expect to resolve your concern Should your case NOT qualify for review, a letter of explanation will be mailed to you.
  • Page 239 To Request a DSB Brochure/Application For a brochure/application, speak to your dealer or write to the Board at the following address: Dispute Settlement Board PO Box 5120 Southfield, MI 48086-5120 Ford of Canada Customer Assistance If you live in Canada and have any questions or concerns that the dealership cannot answer, contact the Customer Assistance Centre.
  • Page 240 Customer Assistance 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 241 Officials at the embassy or consulate can tell you where to get unleaded fuel. If you cannot get unleaded fuel or can get only fuel with an anti-knock index that is lower than your vehicle needs, contact a district or owner relations office before you leave the U.S.

  • Page 242: Accessories

    Accessories Ford Accessories for Your Vehicle Ford has many fine products available from your dealer to clean your vehicle and protect its finishes. For best results, use the following, or products of equivalent quality: A wide selection of accessories is available through your local authorized dealer.
  • Page 243 Safety, Comfort, and Convenience...
  • Page 244 Accessories NOTE: When adding accessories, equipment, passengers, and luggage to your vehicle, do not exceed the total weight capacity of the vehicle or of the front or rear axle (GVWR, GAWR as shown on the Safety Compliance Certification Label). Consult your dealer for specific weight information.
  • Page 247 Accessories...
  • Page 248 Warning label locations...

  • Page 258: Index

    Index ABS warning light (see Anti-lock brake system) ..20 Accessory position on the ignition... . . 56 Additives, engine oil ....Air bag supplemental restraint system .
  • Page 259 Axle lubricant specifications....refill capacities ....Backing up ....131, 135 Basic vehicle warranty .
  • Page 260 Index Brakes (continued) new brake linings ....noise ..... . 123–124 parking .
  • Page 261 Child safety seats (continued) attaching with tether straps ... . . automatic locking mode ....92, 103 in front seat .
  • Page 262 Index Clutch ......fluid reservoir ....operation while driving .
  • Page 263 Driving under special conditions (continued) high water ..... slippery roads ....tips for safe driving .
  • Page 264 Index Engine (continued) starting..... . . starting after a collision ....storing your vehicle .
  • Page 265 Engine oil (continued) synthetic oil ....“break-in” oils ....viscosity .
  • Page 266 Index Fuel cap ..... . . removing ..... . replacing .
  • Page 267 Gearshift automatic operation ....floor-mounted ....locking the gearshift.
  • Page 268 Index Horn ......62 Identification Number, Vehicle (VIN) ..235, 240 Idle relearning .
  • Page 269 Lamps bulb replacement specifications chart ..checking ..... . daytime running light system ... . . dome lamps .
  • Page 270 Index Luggage compartment ....78 Lug nuts ..... . . anti-theft .
  • Page 271 On-board diagnostic (OBD II) system ..Overseas offices ....Panic alarm feature, remote entry system ..Parking brake .
  • Page 272 Index Remote entry system....79 locking/unlocking doors ....80 opening the trunk .
  • Page 273 Safety restraints (continued) lap and shoulder belts....88, 90 lap belt ..... . . maintenance .
  • Page 274 Index Spare tire (continued) conventional spare ....finding the spare ....removing the spare tire .
  • Page 275 Tachometer ..... . . Tail lamps bulb replacement ....217, 221 cleaning .
  • Page 276 Index Transaxle automatic operation ....fluid, checking and adding (automatic) ..fluid, refill capacities ....lubricant specifications .
  • Page 277 Warm engine, starting ....Warning chimes headlamps on ....key in ignition .
  • Page 278 Index Windshield washer fluid and wipers ... 60 checking and adding fluid ....checking and replacing wiper blades ..operation .

  • Page 279: Service Station Information

    Service Station Information...

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