ford contour mk2 (usa owner's manual)

1

Contents

Before driving

Introduction 2

Instrumentation 6

Controls and features 22

Seating and safety restraints 74

Starting and driving

Starting 108

Driving 116

Roadside emergencies 141

Servicing

Maintenance and care 162

Capacities and specifications 223

Customer assistance 223

Reporting safety defects (U.S. only) 241

Index 242

11CCoen 17.6.99 10:36 Uhr Seite 2

Introduction

2

ICONSIndicates a warning. Read thefollowing section on Warnings fora full explanation.

Indicates that vehicle informationrelated to recycling and otherenvironmental concerns will follow.

We must all play our part inprotecting the environment.Correct vehicle usage and theauthorized disposal of wastecleaning and lubrication materialsare significant steps toward thisaim.

BREAKING IN YOUR VEHICLEThere are no particular breaking-inrules for your vehicle. Simply avoiddriving too fast during the first1 600 km (1 000 miles). Varyspeeds frequently. This isnecessary to give the moving partsa chance to break in.

WARNINGSHow can you reduce the risk ofpersonal injury and preventpossible damage to others, yourvehicle, and its equipment?

In this owner’s guide, answers tosuch questions are contained incomments highlighted by thewarning triangle symbol.

11CIten 17.6.99 10:37 Uhr Seite 2

Introduction

3

INFORMATION ABOUT THISGUIDEThe information found in this guidewas in effect at the time ofprinting. Ford may change thecontents without notice andwithout incurring obligation.

If possible, you should avoid hardbraking for the first 1 600 km(1 000 miles).

From 1 600 km (1 000 miles)onwards, you can graduallyincrease the performance of yourvehicle up to the permittedmaximum speeds.

11CIten 17.6.99 10:37 Uhr Seite 3

Introduction

4

Vehicle symbol glossaryThese are some of the symbols you may have on your vehicle.

Safety Alert

Fasten Safety Belt

Airbag - Side

Child Seat Installation Warning

Brake System

Brake Fluid - Non-Petroleum Based

Master Lighting Switch

Fog Lamps - Front

Fuel Pump Reset

Windshield Defrost/Demist

Power Windows Front/Rear

See Owner’s Guide

Airbag - Front

Child Seat

Child Seat Tether Anchorage

Anti-Lock Brake System

Traction Control

Hazard Warning Flasher

Fuse Compartment

Windshield Wash/Wipe

Rear Window Defrost/Demist

Power Window Lockout

11CIten 17.6.99 10:37 Uhr Seite 4

Introduction

5

Vehicle symbol glossary

Child Safety Door Lock/Unlock

Engine Oil

Engine Coolant Temperature

Battery

Battery Acid

Fan Warning

Maintain Correct Fluid Level

Engine Air Filter

Jack

Panic Alarm

Engine Coolant

Do Not Open When Hot

Avoid Smoking, Flames, or Sparks

Explosive Gas

Power Steering Fluid

Emission System

Passenger Compartment Air Filter

11CIten 17.6.99 10:37 Uhr Seite 5

Instrumentation

Page 57Turn signal/high beam

Page 8Instrument cluster

Page 56Hazard flashercontrol

Page 58Windshieldwiper/washercontrol

Page 166Hood release

Page 22, 23Headlamp control/Foglamp control*

Page 55Tilt steeringwheel lever

Page 54Ignition switch

Page 59Speed control*

Page 56Horn

Page 24Traction control*

Page 25Power Mirrors*

Page 24Rear windowdefroster control*

TRACTIONCONTROL

CHECKENGINE

O/DOFF

Res

SetAcc

CoastOff

On

E F

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90100110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

2001

2

0

3

x 1000

4 56

7

8

MIRRORS

BRAKE

C H

6

12CInen 17.6.99 10:41 Uhr Seite 6

7

Instrumentation

Page 25Instrument panel dimmerswitch

On various models, theappearance and location ofsome items may differ fromthose shown here. However,the page references givenstill apply.

OFFLO PNL/FLRPANEL

A/C

FLOOR

DEF

FLR DEF

MAXA/C

HI/

POWER AUDIO AM/FM SCAN

SEEK

31 2

4 5

ANS

SIDE 1-2

EJECT

VOLUME CLOCK

Page 26Climate control system

Page 34Electronic sound system

2Anti-theft system statusindicator*

*if equipped

12CInen 17.6.99 10:41 Uhr Seite 7

Instrumentation

8

Turn signalFlashes when the left or right turnsignal or hazard lights areactivated.

There are two different instrumentcluster designs. The individualwarning and indicator lights aredescribed on the following pages.

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90

110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200

100

E F

BRAKE

CHECKENGINE

O/DOFF

TRACTIONCONTROL

C H

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90

110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200

100

E F

1

2

0

3

x 1000

4 56

7

8

O/DOFF

CHECKENGINE

BRAKE

TRACTIONCONTROL

C H

INSTRUMENT CLUSTERLIGHTS AND CHIMES

Alternative design

12CInen 17.6.99 10:41 Uhr Seite 8

Instrumentation

9

High beamsIlluminates when the headlamphigh beams are on.

Charging systemBriefly illuminates when theignition is turned on and the engineis off. The light also illuminateswhen the battery is not chargingproperly and the vehicle mayrequire electrical system service.

Safety beltIlluminates when the ignition isswitched on as a reminder tofasten the safety belts. For moreinformation, refer to Safety beltindicator light and warningchime in the Seating and safetyrestraints chapter.

Alternative design

Alternative design

Alternative design

Air bag secondary warningFlashes periodically when there isa malfunction with the air bagsystem.

For more information, refer to theSeating and safety restraintschapter.

O/DOFF

TRACTIONCONTROL

12CInen 17.6.99 10:41 Uhr Seite 9

Instrumentation

10

Traction control system light (if equipped)This light comes on when thetraction control system has beendisengaged. It may flash on and offwhile driving to indicate the systemis operating.

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90

110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200

100

E F

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90

110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200

100

E F

1

2

0

3

x 1000

4 56

7

8

O/DOFF

CHECKENGINE

BRAKE

TRACTIONCONTROL

C H

O/DOFF

TRACTIONCONTROL

12CInen 17.6.99 10:41 Uhr Seite 10

Instrumentation

11

O/D Off indicator(Automatic transaxle only)

Illuminates and remainsilluminated when the transaxlecontrol switch (TCS) on the side ofthe gearshift lever is pressed andoverdrive is turned off. For details,refer to the Driving chapter.

Indicates the status of thetransaxle and will flash steadily if amalfunction is detected. If theflashing persists, have yourtransaxle serviced by your dealeror a qualified service technician assoon as possible.

If the condition persists, yourtransaxle may be damaged.

O/DOFF

TRACTIONCONTROL

O/DOFF

TRACTIONCONTROL

If the light stays on for more thanthree (3) seconds after theignition is turned to the ONposition or stays on continuouslywhile you are driving, have thetraction control system checkedby a qualified technician as soonas possible.

For more information, refer toTraction Control in the Drivingchapter.

Low coolant (if equipped)

Briefly illuminates when theignition is turned on and the engineis off. Illuminates when the enginecoolant level is low. Refer to theMaintenance and care chapter tocheck the engine coolant level.

12CInen 17.6.99 10:41 Uhr Seite 11

Instrumentation

12

Check engine

Your vehicle is equipped with acomputer that monitors theengine’s emission control system.This system is commonly knownas the On Board Diagnostics (OBDII) system. This OBD II systemprotects the environment byensuring that your vehiclecontinues to meet governmentemission standards. The OBD IIsystem also assists the servicetechnician in properly servicingyour vehicle.

CHECKENGINE

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90

110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200

100

E F

BRAKE

O/DOFF

CHECKENGINE

TRACTIONCONTROL

C H

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90

110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200

100

E F

1

2

0

3

x 1000

4 56

7

8

TRACTIONCONTROL

O/DOFF

CHECKENGINE

BRAKE

TRACTIONCONTROL

C H

12CInen 17.6.99 10:41 Uhr Seite 12

Instrumentation

13

The check engine indicator lightilluminates when the ignition is firstturned to the ON position to checkthe bulb. If it comes on after theengine is started, one of theengine’s emission control systemsmay be malfunctioning. The lightmay illuminate without adriveability concern being noted.The vehicle will usually be drivableand will not require towing.

What you should do if the checkengine light illuminates

Light turns on solid:

This means that the OBD II systemhas detected a malfunction.

Temporary malfunctions may causeyour check engine light toilluminate. Examples are:

• The vehicle has run out of fuel.(The engine may misfire or runpoorly)

• Poor fuel quality or water in thefuel.

• The fuel cap may not have beensecurely tightened.

12CInen 17.6.99 10:41 Uhr Seite 13

Instrumentation

14

These temporary malfunctions canbe corrected by filling the fuel tankwith good quality fuel and/orproperly tightening the fuel cap.After three drive cycles withoutthese or any other temporarymalfunctions present, the checkengine light should turn off. (Adriving cycle consists of a coldengine startup followed by mixedcity/highway driving.) Noadditional vehicle service isrequired.

If the check engine light remainson, have your vehicle serviced atthe first available opportunity.

Light is blinking:

Engine misfire is occuring whichcould damage your catalyticconverter. You should drive in amoderate fashion (avoid heavyacceleration and deceleration) andhave your vehicle serviced at thefirst available opportunity.

Under engine misfireconditions, excessive

exhaust temperatures coulddamage the catalytic converter,the fuel system, interior floorcoverings or other vehicle com-ponents, possibly causing a fire.

12CInen 17.6.99 10:41 Uhr Seite 14

Instrumentation

15

CHECKENGINE

Air bag readinessBriefly illuminates when theignition is turned on. If the lightfails to illuminate, continues toflash, or remains on, have thesystem serviced immediately.

Low fuel reminderIlluminates as an early reminder ofa low fuel condition indicated onthe fuel gauge (refer to FuelGauge in this chapter for moreinformation). When refueling thevehicle after the light first comeson, the amount of fuel that can beadded will be less than theadvertised capacity since there isstill fuel in the tank. The ignitionmust be in the ON position for thislamp to illuminate. The lamp willalso illuminate for several secondsimmediately after the ignition isturned to the ON positionregardless of the fuel level for bulbverification.

CHECKENGINE

CHECKENGINE

Front foglamps (if equipped)Illuminates when foglamps areswitched on.

Refer to Foglamp control in theControls and features chapter fornotes on use.

12CInen 17.6.99 10:41 Uhr Seite 15

Instrumentation

16

Brake system warningExtinguishes when the parkingbrake is released. Illuminates afterreleasing the parking brake toindicate low brake fluid level.

Illumination while driving mayindicate that one of the brakingcircuits has failed. The secondbraking circuit will remain intact.However, you will need to brakeharder and allow for increasedstopping distances.

BRAKE

BRAKE

Alternative design

E F

BRAKE

O/DOFF

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90

110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200

100

CHECKENGINE

TRACTIONCONTROL

C H

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90

110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200

100

E F

1

2

0

3

x 1000

4 56

7

8

O/DOFF

CHECKENGINE

BRAKE

TRACTIONCONTROL

C H

12CInen 17.6.99 10:41 Uhr Seite 16

Instrumentation

17

Anti-lock brake system (ABS) (if equipped)Momentarily illuminates when theignition is turned on and the engineis off. If the light stays on orcontinues to flash, the ABS needsto be serviced.

BRAKE

BRAKE

Alternative design

Brake system and ABS warninglightsIf both warning lights illuminate atthe same time while driving, stopthe vehicle as soon as it is safe todo so. Have the braking systemchecked by your dealer or qualifiedservice technician beforecontinuing your journey.

When stopping the vehicle, slowlyreduce the speed. Use the brakeswith great care.

Have the system checked by yourdealer or qualified technicianbefore continuing your journey.

BRAKE

BRAKE

Alternative design

12CInen 17.6.99 10:41 Uhr Seite 17

Instrumentation

18

E F

BRAKE

O/DOFF

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90

110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200

100

CHECKENGINE

TRACTIONCONTROL

C H

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90

110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200

100

E F

1

2

0

3

x 1000

4 56

7

8

O/DOFF

CHECKENGINE

BRAKE

TRACTIONCONTROL

C H

Engine oil pressureIlluminates when the ignition isturned on and the engine is off.The light also illuminates whenengine oil pressure falls belownormal range when the engine isrunning. Refer to the Maintenanceand care chapter to check theengine oil level as soon as possible.If the engine oil level is correct, donot start the engine, see yourdealer or qualified servicetechnician.

BRAKE

BRAKE

Alternative design

12CInen 17.6.99 10:41 Uhr Seite 18

Instrumentation

19

Headlamps on warning chimeSounds when the headlamps areon, the ignition is off (and the keyis not in the ignition) and thedriver’s door is open.

Testing the warning andindicator lights and chimes

Turn the ignition key to the onposition without starting theengine. The following warning andindicator lights will illuminatebriefly: charging system, safety belt(does not illuminate, if the driver’ssafety belt is fastened), tractioncontrol, ABS, brake, low coolant,low fuel, engine oil pressure, checkengine and air bag readiness.If any of these lights do notilluminate, see your dealer orqualified service technician.

Key-in-ignition warning chimeSounds when the key is left in theoff/lock or accessory position andthe driver’s door is open.

Safety belt warning chime For information on the safety beltwarning chime, refer to theSeating and safety restraintschapter.

12CInen 17.6.99 10:41 Uhr Seite 19

Instrumentation

20

C H

Engine coolant temperaturegaugeIndicates the temperature of theengine coolant. At normaloperating temperature, the needleremains within the normal area. Ifit enters the red section, the engineis overheating. Stop the vehicle,turn off the engine and let theengine cool. Refer to Checking/Adding engine coolant in theMaintenance and care chapter.

SpeedometerIndicates the current vehiclespeed.

OdometerRegisters the total mileage of thevehicle.

Trip odometerThe trip odometer can register themileage of individual journeys. Toreset, depress the button.

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90

110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200

100

SpeedometerOdometer

Trip odometer Reset button

E F

BRAKE

TRACTIONCONTROL

O/DOFF

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90

110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200

100

CHECKENGINE

TRACTIONCONTROL

C H

INSTRUMENT CLUSTERGAUGES

12CInen 17.6.99 10:41 Uhr Seite 20

Instrumentation

21

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90

110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200

100

E F

1

2

0

3

x 1000

4 56

7

8

O/DOFF

CHECKENGINE

BRAKE

TRACTIONCONTROL

C H

Tachometer (if equipped)Indicates the engine speed inrevolutions per minute (rpm).

1

2

0

3

x 1000

4 56

7

8

E F

Fuel gaugeThe fuel gauge displaysapproximately how much fuel is inthe tank (when the key is in theON position). The fuel gauge mayvary slightly when the vehicle is inmotion. The ignition should be inthe OFF position while the vehicleis being refueled. When the gaugefirst indicates empty, there is asmall amount of reserve fuel in thetank. When refueling the vehiclefrom empty indication, the amountof fuel that can be added will beless than the advertised capacitydue to the reserve fuel.

12CInen 17.6.99 10:41 Uhr Seite 21

Controls and features

22

MIRRORS

OFFLO PNL/FLRPANEL

A/C

FLOOR

DEF

FLR DEF

MAXA/C

HI/


SEEK

31 2

4 5

ANS

SIDE 1-2

EJECT

VOLUME

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90100110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200E F

1

2

0

3

x 1000

4 56

7

8

BRAKE

CHECKENGINE

O/DOFF

TRACTIONCONTROL

CLOCK

C H

INSTRUMENT PANELCONTROLS

Headlamp control Lamps off.

Turn one position clockwise:Parking lamps, instrument panellamps, license plate lamps, and taillamps on.

Turn two positions clockwise:Headlamps on.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 22


23

Daytime running lights (DRL)(Canadian vehicles only)The DRL system turns on thehighbeam headlamps, with areduced light output, when:

• the vehicle is running and theignition is in the on position and

• the headlamp system is in the offposition.

The daytime running light(DRL) system will not

illuminate the tail lamps andparking lamps. Turn on yourheadlamps at dusk. Failure to doso may result in a collision.

Foglamp control (if equipped)

Pull out the control while theheadlamps are on to turn thefoglamps on.Push in the control to deactivatethe foglamps.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 23


24

Rear window defroster (if equipped)Press the defroster control to clearthe rear window of thin ice and fog.

The ignition must be in the onposition to operate the rearwindow defroster.

The defroster turns offautomatically after 10 minutes orwhen the ignition is turned to theoff position. To manually turn offthe defroster, push the controlagain.

Traction control system(if equipped)This button turns the tractioncontrol system off and on. SeeDriving for more information.

OFF PNL/FLRPANEL

A/C

FLOOR

DEF

FLR DEF

MAXA/C

HI/


SEEK

31 2

4 5

ANS

SIDE 1-2

EJECT

VOLUME

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90100110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200E F

1

2

0

3

x 1000

4 56

7

8

CHECKENGINE

TRACTIONCONTROL

O/DOFF

CLOCK

MIRRORS

TRACTION TROL

C H

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 24


25

Panel dimmer controlAdjust the control to vary theintensity of the panel lighting.Operates only when the exteriorlights are switched on.

To switch on the interior lamp,rotate the control completely to theleft.

Power mirrors (if equipped)The control can be swivelled andturned.

Turn the control counterclockwiseto adjust the driver’s side mirror,clockwise to adjust the passengerside mirror. Adjust the selectedmirror by moving the centercontrol in the desired direction.Then turn the control back to thecenter position.

MIRRORS

MIRRORS

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 25


26

Climate control system

VentsAirflow from the vents may beadjusted by moving the horizontalcontrol or vertically adjusting thevent (except passenger side outervent) according to your airflowpreference.

Your vehicle has one of thefollowing climate control systems:

• Manual heating system

• Manual heating and air conditioning system

In some modes, the two systemsfunction similarly. In modes wherethe systems do not functionsimilarly, the different functionsare noted.

OFFLO PNL/FLRPANEL

A/C

FLOOR

DEF

FLR DEF

MAXA/C

HI/


SEEK

31 2

4 5

ANS

SIDE 1-2

EJECT

VOLUME

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90100110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200E F

1

2

0

3

x 1000

4 56

7

8

CHECKENGINE

TRACTIONCONTROL

O/DOFF

MIRRORS

CLOCK

TRACTION ROL

C H

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 26


27

Heater only system (if equipped)

OFFLO PNL/FLRPANEL FLOOR

DEF

FLR DEF

HI/

LO

HI

Temperature control knobControls the temperature of theairflow inside the vehicle. Onheater-only systems, the air cannotbe cooled below the outsidetemperature.

Mode selector controlControls the direction of theairflow to the inside of the vehicle.

• PANEL – Distributes outside airthrough the instrument panelregisters.

• OFF – Outside air is shut out andthe fan will not operate.

• PNL/FLR – Distributes outsideair through the instrument panelregisters and the floor ducts.

• FLOOR – Allows for maximumheating. Distributes outside airthrough floor ducts.

Fan speed control Controls the volume of aircirculated in the vehicle.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 27


28

• FLR/DEF – Distributes outsideair through the floor ducts and thewindshield defroster ducts.

• DEF – Distributes outside airthrough the windshield defrosterducts. It can be used to clear ice orfog from the windshield.

Operating tips• In humid weather, select DEFbefore driving. This will help toreduce fogging on your windshield.After a few minutes, select anydesired position.

• To reduce humidity buildupinside the vehicle, don’t drive withthe climate control system in theOFF position.

• Don’t put objects under the frontseat that will interfere with theairflow to the back seats.

• Remove any snow, ice or leavesfrom the air intake area (at thebottom of the windshield under thehood).

• Do not place objects over thedefroster outlets. These objectscan block airflow and reduce yourability to see through yourwindshield. Also, avoid placingsmall objects on top of yourinstrument panel. These objectscan fall down into the defrosteroutlets and block airflow andpossibly damage your climatecontrol system.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 28


29

Manual heating and airconditioning system (if equipped)

OFFLO PNL/FLRPANEL

A/C

FLOOR

DEF

FLR DEF

MAXA/C

HI/

LO

HI

Fan speed control Controls the volume of aircirculated in the vehicle.

Temperature control knobControls the temperature of theairflow inside the vehicle.

OFF PNL/FLRPANEL

A/C

FLOOR

DEF

FLR DEF

MAXA/C

/

Mode selector controlControls the direction of theairflow to the inside of the vehicle.

The air conditioning compressorwill operate in all modes exceptPANEL, PNL/FLR, and FLOOR.However, the air conditioning willonly function if the outsidetemperature is about 10°C (50°F )or higher.

Since the air conditioner removesconsiderable moisture from the airduring operation, it is normal ifclear water drips on the groundunder the air conditioner drainwhile the system is working andeven after you have stopped thevehicle.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 29


30

Under normal conditions, yourvehicle’s climate control systemshould be left in any position otherthan MAX A/C or OFF when thevehicle is parked. This allows thevehicle to “breathe” through theoutside air inlet duct.

In snowy or dirty conditions, leavethe mode selector in the OFFposition when the ignition is off.

• MAX A/C – Uses recirculated airto cool the vehicle. MAX A/C isnoisier than A/C but moreeconomical and will cool the insideof the vehicle faster. Airflow will befrom the instrument panelregisters. This mode can also beused to prevent undesirable odorsfrom entering the vehicle.

• A/C – Uses outside air to cool thevehicle. It is quieter than MAX A/Cbut not as economical. Airflow willbe from the instrument panelregisters.

• PANEL – Distributes outside airthrough the instrument panelregisters. However, the air will notbe cooled below the outsidetemperature because the airconditioning does not operate inthis mode.

• OFF – Outside air is shut out andthe fan will not operate. For shortperiods of time only, use this modeto prevent undesirable odors fromentering the vehicle.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 30


31

• PNL/FLR – Distributes outsideair through the instrument panelregisters and the floor ducts.However, the air will not be cooledbelow the outside temperaturebecause the air conditioning doesnot operate in this mode. Foradded customer comfort, when thetemperature control knob isanywhere in between the full hotand full cold positions, the airdistributed through the floor ductswill be slightly warmer than the airsent to the instrument panelregisters.

• FLOOR – Allows for maximumheating by distributing outside airthrough the floor ducts. However,the air will not be cooled below theoutside temperature because theair conditioning does not operate inthis mode.

• FLR/DEF – Distributes outsideair through the windshielddefroster ducts and the floor ducts.Heating and air conditioningcapabilities are provided in thismode. For added customercomfort, the air distributed throughthe floor ducts will be slightlywarmer than the air sent to thewindshield defroster ducts. If thetemperature is about 10°C (50°F)or higher, the air conditioner willautomatically dehumidify the air toreduce fogging.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 31


32

• DEF – Distributes outside airthrough the windshield defrosterducts. It can be used to clear ice orfog from the windshield. If thetemperature is about 10°C (50°F)or higher, the air conditioner willautomatically dehumidify the air toreduce fogging.

Operating tips• In humid weather, select DEFbefore driving. This will reducefogging on your windshield. After afew minutes, select any desiredposition.

• To reduce humidity buildupinside the vehicle, don’t drive withthe climate control system in theOFF position.

• Don’t put objects under the frontseat that will interfere with theairflow to the back seats.

• Remove any snow, ice or leavesfrom the air intake area (at thebottom of the windshield under thehood).

• If your vehicle has been parkedwith the windows closed during hotweather, the air conditioner will doa much faster job of cooling if youdrive for two or three minutes withthe windows open. This will forcemost of the hot, stale air out of thevehicle. Then operate your airconditioner as you would normally.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 32


33

Cabin air filterYour vehicle is equipped with an airfilter that removes pollen and roaddust from outside air before it isdirected to the interior of thevehicle. Refer to the Maintenanceand care chapter for maintenanceof this filter.

• Do not place objects over thedefroster outlets. These objectscan block airflow and reduce yourability to see through yourwindshield. Also, avoid placingsmall objects on top of yourinstrument panel. These objectscan fall down into the defrosteroutlets and block airflow andpossibly damage your climatecontrol system.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 33


34

OFFLO PNL/FLRPANEL

A/C

FLOOR

DEF

FLR DEF

MAXA/C

HI/


SEEK

31 2

4 5

ANS

SIDE 1-2

EJECT

VOLUME

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90100110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200E F

1

2

0

3

x 1000

4 56

7

8

CHECKENGINE

TRACTIONCONTROL

O/DOFF

MIRRORS

CLOCK

TRACTION TROL

C H

AUDIO SYSTEMSCompact disc radio

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 34


35

Electronic stereo radio with cassette

Electronic stereo radio

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 35


36

SIDE 1-2

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 36


37

SIDE 1-2

1-2

SIDE

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 37


38

Power controlPress the control to turn the audiosystem on or off.

Volume controlPress the control to raise or lowervolume.

If the volume is set above a certainlevel and the ignition is turned off,the volume will come back on at a“nominal” listening level when theignition switch is turned back on.

AM/FM selectThe AM/FM select control works inradio mode and allows you to selectAM or FM frequency bands.

Press the control to switchbetween AM, FM1 or FM2 memorypreset stations.

Tune adjustThe tune control works in radiomode.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 38


39

The tune adjust with electronicstereo radio• Press (–) to move to the nextfrequency down the band (whetheror not a listenable station is locatedthere). Hold the control to movethrough the frequencies quickly.

• Press (+) to move to the nextfrequency up the band (whether ornot a listenable station is locatedthere). Hold for quick movement.

Tune adjust with compact discradio• Press the SCAN/TUNE controltwice.

• Within approximately fiveseconds press and release either or on the SEEK button tochange to the next frequency up ordown.

• Press and hold down or toquickly move through thefrequencies.

Tune adjust with electronicstereo cassette radio• Press the AMS control.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 39


40

• Within approximately fiveseconds, press and release either

or on the SEEK control tochange to the next frequency up ordown.

• Press and hold down or toquickly move through thefrequencies.

Seek functionThe seek function control works inradio or tape mode.

Seek function in radio mode• Press to find the nextlistenable station down thefrequency band.

• Press to find the nextlistenable station up the frequencyband.

Seek function in tape mode• Press the AMS control.

• Press to listen to theprevious selection on the tape.

• Press to listen to the nextselection on the tape.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 40


41

Scan functionThe scan function works in radioand CD mode (if equipped).

Scan function with electronicstereo cassette radioPress the SCAN control to hear abrief sampling of all listenablestations on the frequency band.Press the control again to stop thescan mode.

Scan function with compactdisc radio• Press the SCAN/TUNE controlonce.

Radio station memory presetThe radio is equipped with sixstation memory preset controls.These controls can be used toselect up to six preset AM stationsand twelve FM stations (six in FM1and six in FM2).

• Push on the SEEK control tohear a brief sampling of listenablestations up the frequency band.

• Push to hear a brief samplingof listenable stations down thefrequency band.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 41


42

3. Press and hold a memory presetcontrol until the sound returns,indicating the station is held inmemory on the control youselected.

If the battery is disconnected, thememory preset stations will needto be reset.

Automatic memory store (if equipped)Automatic memory store allowsyou to set strong radio stationswithout losing your originalmanually set preset stations. Thisfeature is helpful on trips when youtravel between cities with differentradio stations.

Setting memory preset stations1. Select the frequency band withthe AM/FM select control.

2. Select a station. Refer to Tuneadjust or Seek function for moreinformation on selecting a station.

Starting automatic memorystore (if equipped)1. Select a frequency using theAM/FM select control.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 42


43

2. Press the AUTO PRESETcontrol.

3. When the first six strong stationsare filled, the station stored inmemory preset control 1 will startplaying.

If there are less than six strongstations available on the frequencyband, the remaining memorypreset controls will all store the laststrong station available.

Deactivating automatic memorystoreTo deactivate automatic memorystore and return to your audiosystem’s manually set memorystations, press the AUTO PRESETcontrol again.

Bass adjustThe bass adjust control allows youto increase or decrease the audiosystem’s bass output.

• Push the AUDIO controlrepeatedly until the display readsBASS.

• Press (+) or (–) on the volumecontrol to increase or decreasebass output.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:52 Uhr Seite 43

• Press (+) or (–) on the volumecontrol to increase or decreasetreble output.

Speaker balance adjustSpeaker sound distribution can beadjusted between the right and leftspeakers.


44

Treble adjustThe treble adjust control allowsyou to increase or decrease theaudio system’s treble output.

• Push the AUDIO controlrepeatedly until the display readsTREB.

• Push the AUDIO controlrepeatedly until the display readsBAL.

• Press the (+) side of the volumecontrol to shift sound to the rightspeakers.

• Press the (–) side of the volumecontrol to shift sound to the leftspeakers.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 44


45

Speaker fade adjustSpeaker sound distribution can beadjusted between the front andrear speakers.

• Push the AUDIO controlrepeatedly until the display readsFADE.

• Press the (+) side of the volumecontrol to shift sound to the frontspeakers.

• Press the (–) side of the volumecontrol to shift sound to the rearspeakers.

ClockViewing the clockPress the CLOCK control to displaythe time on the audio systemdisplay.

Time is displayed:

• until an audio function control ispressed.

• approximately ten seconds aftereach audio system change.

• when the audio system is off andthe ignition is ON.

To remove the clock display, pressthe control again.

CLOCK

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 45

Setting the clockPress and hold CLOCK, then pressSEEK to increase the hours or

to increase minutes.

The clock will display 12-hour timewith no AM/PM indications.

On the single CD audio system, theclock can be set with the radiopower on or off.


46

Tape play selectInsert a tape to begin tape play.

Push only slightly when inserting acassette tape (with the open edgeto the right). A cassette deckloading mechanism pulls the tapein the rest of the way.

CD play selectInsert a disc to begin CD play.

Press the PLAY/STOP control tobegin CD play if a disc is loaded inthe CD player. The first track of thedisc will begin playing if the dischas just been loaded. After that,CD play will begin where it wasstopped last.

Rewind/fast forwardThe rewind and fast forwardcontrols work in tape and CDmodes (if equipped).

SEEK

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 46


47

Rewind/fast forward in CDmode• Press the control for less thanthree seconds for slow rewind.

• Press the control for more thanthree seconds for fast rewind.

• Press the control for less thanthree seconds for slow forwardaction.

• Press the control for more thanthree seconds for fast forwardaction.

Tape direction selectPress both and to playthe alternate side of a tape.

Rewind/fast forward function intape mode• Press to rewind the tape.Play will continue once thebeginning of the tape is reached orrewind is stopped.

• Press to fast forward thetape. Once the end of the tape isreached, tape direction reversesand the opposite side of the tapeplays.

Tape ejectPress the control to stop and ejecta tape.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 47


48

CD ejectPress the control to stop and ejecta CD.

If a disc is ejected from the CDplayer but is not removed withinapproximately 10 seconds, theplayer will automatically reload thedisc for storage (unless the disc isautomatically ejected because itwas inserted upside down, in whichcase the disc will not beautomatically reloaded).

Dolby® noise reductionDolby® noise reductionmanufactured under license fromDolby Laboratories LicensingCorporation operates only in tapemode. Dolby® reduces the amountof hiss and static during tapeplayback.

Press the button to activateand deactivate Dolby® noisereduction.

Compression adjust (if equipped)Compression adjust brings soft andloud CD passages together for amore consistent listening level.

Press the control to activate anddeactivate compression adjust.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 48


49

DISPLAY SCREENThe display screen givesinformation on the status of theaudio system.

Display Information

AM, FM1 or FM2 Indicates which frequency band the audio system is in

87.9 to 107.9 Indicates currently playing radio station(530 to 1610 Am)

Illuminated bars Indicates volume, relative levels of bass and treble and relative levels of speaker balance and fade

Indicates Dolby® Noise Reduction activation

1 or 2 Indicates side of tape playing

Indicates CD play

Indicates CD stop

TUNE Indicates tune mode activated

M Indicates manual tuning is activated

SCN or SCAN Indicates scan mode activated

AUTO Indicates Auto Memory Store (AMS)

BASS Indicates bass mode activated

TREB Indicates treble mode activated

BAL Indicates speaker balance adjust

FADE Indicates speaker fade adjust

SHUF Indicates shuffle feature activated

COMP Indicates compression feature activated

TOO HOT Indicates CD player temperature is above 75°C(167°F). CD play will stop. CD play can continue once the temperature reaches the normal range.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 49


50

Troubleshooting the CD Player

The laser beam used in thecompact disc player is

harmful to the eyes. Do notattempt to disassemble the case.

If sound skips:

• You may be travelling on a roughroad, playing scratched discs or thedisc may be dirty. Skipping will notscratch the discs or damage theplayer.

If player does not work:

• The disc is inserted with the labelsurface downward.

• The disc is dusty or defective.

• The player’s internal temperatureis above 75°C (167°F). Allow theplayer to cool down beforeoperating.

• A disc with format anddimensions not within industrystandards is inserted.

Cleaning compact discsInspect all discs for contaminationbefore playing. If necessary, cleandiscs only with an approved CDcleaner and wipe the center out tothe edge. Do not use circularmotion.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 50


51

CD and CD player care• Handle discs by their edges only.Never touch the playing surface.

• Do not insert more than one discat a time.

• Do not expose discs to directsunlight or heat sources forextended periods of time.

• After playing, store the disc in itscase.

Cleaning cassette player (if equipped)Clean the tape player head with acassette cleaning cartridge afterten to twelve hours of play in orderto maintain the best sound andoperation.

Cassette and cassette playercare• Use only cassettes that are90 minutes long or less.

• Do not expose tapes to directsunlight, high humidity, extremeheat or extreme cold. Allow tapesthat may have been exposed toextreme temperatures to reach amoderate temperature beforeplaying.

• Tighten very loose tapes byinserting a finger or pencil into thehole and turning the hub.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 51


52

• Remove loose labels beforeinserting tapes.

• Do not leave tapes in the cassetteplayer for a long time when notbeing played.

RADIO FREQUENCYINFORMATIONThe Federal CommunicationsCommission (FCC) and theCanadian Radio andTelecommunicationsCommunications (CRTC) establishthe frequencies AM and FMstations may use for theirbroadcasts. Allowable frequenciesare:

AM 530, 540–1600, 1610 kHz

FM 87.9, 88.1–107.1, 107.9 MHz

Not all frequencies are used in agiven area.

Radio reception factorsThree factors can affect radioreception:

• Distance/strength. The furtheran FM signal travels, the weaker itis. The listenable range of theaverage FM station isapproximately 40 km (24 miles).This range can be affected by“signal modulation”.

Signal modulation is a processradio stations use to increase theirstrength/volume relative to otherstations.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 52


53

• Terrain. Hills, mountains and tallbuildings between your vehicle’santenna and the radio stationsignal can cause FM receptionproblems. Static can be caused onAM stations by power lines, electricfences, traffic lights andthunderstorms. Moving away froman interfering structure (out of its“shadow”) returns your receptionto normal.

• Station overload. Weak signalsare sometimes captured bystronger signals when you pass abroadcast tower. A stronger signalmay temporarily overtake a weakersignal and play while the weakstation frequency is displayed.

The audio system automaticallyswitches to single channelreception if it will improve thereception of a station normallyreceived in stereo.

AUDIO SYSTEM WARRANTIESAND SERVICERefer to the “Warranty Guide” foraudio system warranty information.

If service is necessary, see yourdealer or a qualified technician.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 53


54

STEERING COLUMNCONTROLS

Ignition1. Ignition off, steering wheellocked.

On vehicles with automatictransaxles, the ignition key canreturn to this position only if thegearshift lever is in P (Park).

2. The accessory position. Steeringunlocked, radio operational.Ignition and all main electricalcircuits are disabled.

The ignition key should not be leftin this position for too long to avoiddischarging the batteryunnecessarily.

3. Ignition switched on, allelectrical circuits operational.Warning and indicator lightsilluminate. This key position is fornormal driving.

4. Starter motor activated. Releasethe key as soon as the enginestarts.

3

4

21

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90100110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200E F

1

2

0

3

x 1000

4 56

7

8

CHECKENGINE

TRACTIONCONTROL

O/DOFF

IRRORS

TRACTION NTROL

C H

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 54


55

Tilt steeringPull the locking lever on thesteering column cover up to adjustthe steering column position.Secure the wheel by releasing thelever thereby allowing the lever toreturn to the lock position.

Never adjust the steeringwheel while the vehicle is

moving.

OFFLO PNL/FLRPANEL

A/C

FLOOR

DEF

FLR DEF

MAXA/C

HI/


SEEK

31 2

4 5

ANS

SIDE 1-2

EJECT

VOLUME

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90100110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200E F

1

2

0

3

x 1000

4 56

7

8

CHECKENGINE

TRACTIONCONTROL

O/DOFF

MIRRORS

CLOCK

TRACTION TROL

C H

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 55


56

Hazard flasher control Use only in an emergency to warntraffic of vehicle breakdown orapproaching danger. Depress toactivate. Depress again to switchoff. The hazard lights can beoperated when the ignition is off.

Horn Press the pad. The horn can beoperated when the ignition is off.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 56


57

Multi-function switchThe turn signal functions areavailable only with the ignitionswitch on.

Right turn signalMove the lever up.

Left turn signalMove the lever down.

OFFLO PNL/FLRPANEL

A/C

FLOOR

DEF

FLR DEF

MAXA/C

HI/


SEEK

31 2

4 5

ANS

SIDE 1-2

EJECT

VOLUME

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90100110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200E F

1

2

0

3

x 1000

4 56

7

8

CHECKENGINE

TRACTIONCONTROL

O/DOFF

MIRRORS

CLOCK

TRACTION TROL

C H

Flash-to-passPull the lever toward you andrelease quickly for “flash-to-pass”operation.

High beam headlampsPush the lever toward theinstrument panel.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 57


58

Wipers Lift the windshield wiper lever tothe desired speed interval.

• Intermittent: push lever up to thefirst position.

• Low: push lever up to the secondposition.

• High: push lever up to the thirdposition.

For a single wipe, push the leverdownward.

Windshield wipers and washer

Intermittent wiper control (if equipped)Rotate the variable intermittentwiper control to the desired speed.

1 = Short time interval

6 = Extended time interval

Washer Pull the lever toward the steeringwheel. The washer operates inconjunction with the windshieldwipers.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 58


59

Do not use the speed controlin heavy traffic or on roads

that are winding, slippery, orunpaved.

Off

On

Speed control (if equipped)

To turn speed control off• Press Off, or

• turn off the vehicle ignition.

Once the speed control is switchedoff, the previously programmed setspeed will be erased.

To turn speed control on• Press On.

MIRRORS

OFFLO PNL/FLRPANEL

A/C

FLOOR

DEF

FLR DEF

MAXA/C

HI/


SEEK

31 2

4 5

ANS

SIDE 1-2

EJECT

VOLUME

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90100110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200E F

1

2

0

3

x 1000

4 56

7

8

BRAKE

CHECKENGINE

TRACTIONCONTROL

O/DOFF

CLOCK

Res

SetAcc

CoastOff

On

TRACTION TROL

C H

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 59


60

To set a speedPress Set Acc and release. Forspeed control to operate, the speedcontrol must be on and the vehiclespeed must be greater than 48km/h (30 mph).

If you drive up or down a steep hill,your vehicle speed may varymomentarily slower or faster thanthe set speed. This is normal.

Speed control cannot reduce thevehicle speed if it increases abovethe set speed on a downhill. If yourvehicle speed is faster than the setspeed while driving on a downhillin overdrive, you may want to shiftto the next lower gear to reduceyour vehicle speed.

Res

SetAcc

Coast

Res

SetAcc

Coast

If your vehicle slows down morethan 16 km/h (10 mph) below yourset speed on an uphill, your speedcontrol will disengage. This isnormal. Press Res to re-engage it.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 60


61

Res

SetAcc

Coast

To set a lower speed• Press and hold Coast. Release thecontrol when the desired vehiclespeed is reached, or

• press and release Coast. Eachpress will decrease the set speedby 1.6 km/h (1 mph), or

• depress the brake pedal. Whenthe desired vehicle speed isreached, press Set Acc.

To set a higher speed• Press and hold Set Acc. Releasewhen the desired set speed isreached, or

• press and release Set Acc. Eachpress will increase the set speed by1.6 km/h (1 mph), or

• accelerate with your acceleratorpedal, then press Set Acc.

You may accelerate with theaccelerator pedal at any timeduring speed control usage.Releasing the accelerator pedal willreturn your vehicle speed to thepreviously set speed.

Res

SetAcc

Coast

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 61


62

Res

SetAcc

Coast

To return to a set speed• Press Res. For Res to operate,the vehicle speed must be fasterthan 48 km/h (30 mph).

To disengage speed control• Depress the brake pedal.

Disengaging the speed control willnot erase the previouslyprogrammed set speed.

OVERHEAD CONTROLS

Interior lamps with readinglamps (if equipped)The reading lamps and controls arelocated on the dome lamp. Pressthe controls on either side of eachlamp to activate the lamps.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 62


63

12SEC

On Off 12 SEC

Interior lamps (sunroof equipped vehicles)The reading lamps are operated byseparate on/off switches and can beadjusted to point in the desireddirection.

Open/Lift

Close

Sunroof (if equipped)The electric sunroof can beoperated only when the ignition isswitched on.

To open and close the sunroofPress the rear part of the controlon the rocker switch in the roofconsole to open the sunroof. Pressthe front control to close it.

To lift the rear of the sunroofClose the sunroof and press thefront part of the control again.Press the rear control to lower thesunroof.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 63


64

Power door locks (if equipped)Push to lock or unlock all doors.

Power windows (if equipped)The windows will only operatewhen the ignition is switched on.Press the appropriate control tooperate the power windows at eachdoor position. All of the windowscan be controlled from the controlon the driver door. The passengerdoor window and the rear windowscan be operated individually withseparate door controls on therespective door.

One-touch-down feature(if equipped)The one-touch-down feature allowsyou to completely open the driverwindow by briefly pressing andreleasing the bottom of the windowswitch. To stop the window beforeit opens completely, press theswitch again.

The one-touch down feature onlyopens the window. To close thewindow, you must press and holdthe top of the switch.

DOOR MOUNTED CONTROLS

UL

LOCK

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 64


65

Safety switchMove the switch to the left toprevent passengers from operatingthe windows.

Move the switch to the right toallow passengers to operate thewindows.

CHILD LOCK BELOWSECURITE ENFANTS CI-DESSOUS´

VERROUILLEE,LOCKED

WHEN LOCKED, DOOR WON`TOPEN FROM INSIDE.

´VERROULEE AINSI, LA PORTENE PEUT SÓUVRIR DELÍNTERIEUR.

CHILD LOCK BELOWSECURITE ENFANTS CI-DESSOUS´

VERROUILLEE,LOCKED

WHEN LOCKED, DOOR WON`TOPEN FROM INSIDE.

´VERROULEE AINSI, LA PORTENE PEUT SÓUVRIR DELÍNTERIEUR.

Rear door childproof safetylocksWhen the lever in the rear doorlock is pushed inwards, the doorcan be opened only from theoutside of the vehicle.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 65


66

PU

LL

Remote luggage compartment

control Pull the control located on the leftof the driver seat to open theluggage compartment.

FLOOR MOUNTED CONTROLSParking brakeFor information on the parkingbrake, refer to Preparing to startthe vehicle in the Startingchapter.

Interior luggage compartmentreleaseYour vehicle is equipped with amechanical interior luggagecompartment release handle thatprovides a means of escape forchildren and adults in the eventthey become locked inside theluggage compartment.

Adults are advised to familiarizethemselves with the operation andlocation of the release handle.

To open the luggage compartmentdoor (lid) from the inside, pull theilluminated “T” shaped handle. Thematerial the handle is made of willglow for hours in the darkness ofthe luggage compartment followingbrief exposure to ambient light.

The “T” shaped handle will belocated either on the luggagecompartment door (lid) or insidethe luggage compartment near thetail lamps.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 66


67

Fuel pump shut-off switchFor information on the fuel pumpshut-off switch, refer to Fuelpump shut-off switch in theRoadside emergencies chapter.

Positive retention floor matPosition the floor mat in thefootwell. Place the mat eyelet overthe pointed end of the retentionpost from the rear and rotateforward to install. Adjust the floormat position to allow properoperation of the accelerator pedal,brake pedal, and clutch pedal (ifequipped).

To remove, lift the floor mat justforward of the retention post androtate it rearward to disengage itfrom the retention post.

Keep vehicle doors andluggage compartment locked

and keep keys out of a child’sreach. Unsupervised childrencould lock themselves in an opentrunk and risk injury. Childrenshould be taught not to play invehicles.

On hot days, thetemperature in the trunk or

vehicle interior can rise veryquickly. Exposure of people oranimals to these hightemperatures for even a short timecan cause heat-related injury ordeath. Small children areparticularly at risk.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:53 Uhr Seite 67


68

TRUNK

UNLOCK

PANIC

LOCK

REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRYSYSTEM(if equipped)

If your vehicle has a remote entrysystem, you can lock and unlockthe vehicle doors and open theluggage compartment withoutusing a key. The remote also has apersonal alarm feature.The remote entry feature onlyoperates with the ignition in the offposition.

Locking the doors Press the LOCK control.

To signal that the doors are locked,press the LOCK control againwithin five seconds. The doors willlock again and the horn will sound.

Unlocking the doors Press the UNLOCK control to openthe driver door.

To unlock the other doors, pressthe UNLOCK control a second timewithin five seconds.

TRUNKLOCKPANIC

UNLOCK

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:54 Uhr Seite 68


69

Opening the luggage

compartment Press the TRUNK control.

Sounding the panic alarm Press the PANIC control. The hornwill sound and the headlamps andtail lamps will flash forapproximately 2 minutes and 45seconds.

To deactivate the alarm, press thePANIC control again or turn theignition key to the on position.

Replacing the batteriesThe transmitter is powered by twocoin-type, three-volt lithiumbatteries. A decrease in operatingrange can be caused by:

• battery failure,

• weather conditions, or

• structures around the vehicle.

Replacement batteries for theremote entry system transmittersmay be purchased at pharmacies,watch stores, or at authorizeddealers.

UNLOCK

LOCKPANIC

TRUNKTRUNK

UNLOCK

LOCKPANIC

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:54 Uhr Seite 69


70

Replacing lost transmittersTake your transmitters to thedealer for reprogramming if:

• a transmitter is lost, or

• you want to purchase additionaltransmitters.

This device complies with part 15of the FCC rules. Operation issubject to the two followingconditions: (1) The device may notcause harmful interference, and(2) This device must accept anyinterference received, includinginterference that may causeundesired operation.

To replace the batteries:1. Twist a thin coin between thetwo halves of the transmitter. Donot take the front part of thetransmitter apart.

2. Remove the old batteries.

3. Place the positive (+) side of thenew batteries down.

4. Snap the two halves of thetransmitter back together.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:54 Uhr Seite 70


71

PASSIVE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM(if equipped)The Passive Anti-Theft System(PATS) is an engine immobilizationsystem. It is an additional theftprotection feature that preventsthe engine from being startedunless a coded key is used.

This system is only available with2.5 litre engines.

OFFLO PNL/FLRPANEL

A/C

FLOOR

DEF

FLR DEF

MAXA/C

HI/


SEEK

31 2

4 5

ANS

SIDE 1-2

EJECT

VOLUME

2 3

0 0

0 8090100110

120130

H

20140

160

180

200E F

BRAKE

CHECKENGINE

CLOCK

Automatic armingThe system is armed five secondsafter switching off the ignition.

The armed status is indicated whenthe control light flashes everytwo seconds.

Automatic disarmingSwitching on the ignition disarmsthe system if the correct code isrecognized.

KeysYour vehicle is supplied with twocoded keys.

Only these keys can be used tostart your vehicle.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:54 Uhr Seite 71


72

Functional checkWhen the ignition is switched on,the control light will illuminate forapproximately three seconds toindicate that the system isoperating correctly.

If the control light flashes rapidlyfor approximately one minute andthen repeatedly at irregularintervals, the system did notrecognize the key code. Removethe key and try again.

If the control light illuminatescontinuously for approximatelyone minute and then flashesrepeatedly at irregular intervals, asystem malfunction has occurred.

Have the malfunction repaired byyour dealer or a qualifiedtechnician as soon as possible.

To ensure a trouble-free starting ofthe vehicle, do not shield the keyswith any metal objects.

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:54 Uhr Seite 72


73

Spare key programmingA maximum of 8 keys in all can becoded with any two coded keys.

• Insert the first key in theignition switch and turn to position3.

• Turn the key back to position 1and remove from the ignitionswitch within 5 seconds.

• Insert the second key in theignition switch and turn to position3 within 5 seconds.

• Turn the key back to position 1and remove from the ignitionswitch within 5 seconds - the keycoding mode is now activated.

• If an uncoded key is nowinserted in the ignition switch andturned to position 3 within 10seconds, this key is coded to thesystem.

If coding is not completedcorrectly, the control light flashesafter the ignition is switched onwith the newly coded key. Repeatthe coding process after waiting 20seconds with the ignition inposition 3.

If keys become lost, you must haveyour dealer clear and reprogramthe code for security reasons.

3

4

21

13CCfen 17.6.99 10:54 Uhr Seite 73

Seating and safety restraints

74

Adjusting the head restraintsPush or pull the head restraint tothe desired height.

SEATING

Manually adjusting the seatsPull the lever located at the frontedge of the seat to move the seatforward or backward.

Reclining the seatsPull the lever on the outside of theseat to recline the seat.

HEAD RESTRAINTS(if equipped)

Never adjust the driver’sseat or seat back when the

vehicle is moving.

14CSSen 17.6.99 10:59 Uhr Seite 74


75

Adjusting the power seats (if equipped)Move the relevant control in therespective direction to adjust theseat as follows:

1

2

3

4

Seat (1) Forward and backward

(2) Height of the entire seat

(3) Height of the front of the seat

(4) Height of the rear of the seat

Lumbar support

Pull the lever to adjust lumbarsupport.

14CSSen 17.6.99 10:59 Uhr Seite 75


76

Folding rear seats (if equipped)Pull the release knob located in theluggage compartment. Fold downthe seat. The seat back cannot bereleased while the built-in childseat (if equipped) is open.

If you are carrying objects thatmight damage the center rearthree-point safety belt, you canunbuckle the end of the belt fromthe small buckle on the seatcushion and let the retractor reel itup. Reconnect the belt tongue tothe buckle when you fold the seatback up. Refer to Center positionthree-point safety belts in thischapter.

To raise the rear seat back, pushthe seat back upward until it locksin place. Make sure it is firmlylatched by pushing forward andback on it.

Check to see that the seatand seat back are latched

securely in position. Keep luggagearea free of objects that wouldprevent proper engagement.

14CSSen 17.6.99 10:59 Uhr Seite 76


77

Important safety restraintsprecautionsThe use of safety belts helps torestrain both driver and passengerin case of a collision. In most statesand Canada, the law requires theuse of safety belts.

Always drive and ride withyour seatback upright and

the lap belt snug and low acrossthe hips.

Lock the doors of yourvehicle before driving to

lessen the risk of the door comingopen in a collision.

Cargo should always besecured to prevent it from

shifting and causing damage to thevehicle or harm to passengers.

To prevent the risk of injury,make sure children sit where

they can be properly restrained.

SAFETY RESTRAINTS

Front and rear seatoccupants including

pregnant women, should wearsafety belts for optimumprotection in an accident.

Always transport children 12years old and under in the

back seat and always useappropriate child restraints.

14CSSen 17.6.99 10:59 Uhr Seite 77


78

Combination lap and shoulderbeltInsert the tongue into the slot inthe buckle to fasten.

Push the red release button andremove the tongue from the slot tounfasten.

The passenger safety restraints inthe vehicle are combination lap andshoulder belts. The front and rearseat passenger safety belts havetwo types of locking modes.

Using safety restraints properly

Each seating position in yourvehicle has a specific safety

belt assembly which is made up ofone buckle and one tongue thatare designed to be used as a pair.

Use the shoulder belt on theoutside shoulder only. Never wearthe shoulder belt under the arm.

Never swing it around your neckover the inside shoulder.

Never use a single belt for morethan one person.

14CSSen 17.6.99 10:59 Uhr Seite 78


79

Automatic locking modeIn this mode, the shoulder belt isautomatically prelocked; however,the belt will react to remove anyslack in the shoulder belt.

The automatic locking mode is notavailable on the driver’s safety belt.

When to use the automaticlocking mode• When a tight lap and shoulderbelt fit is desired.

• Any time a child safety seat isinstalled in the vehicle. Forinformation on the proper use of achild safety seat, refer to Childsafety seats later in this chapter.

Vehicle sensitive (emergency)locking modeThe vehicle sensitive mode is thenormal retractor mode which locksthe belts in response to vehiclemovement. For example, if thedriver brakes suddenly, turns acorner sharply or your vehiclereceives an impact of 8 km/h (5 mph) or more the combinationsafety belts will lock to help reducethe forward movement of thedriver and passengers.

The retractor can be made to lockby pulling sharply on the belt.

14CSSen 17.6.99 10:59 Uhr Seite 79


80

Using automatic locking modeThe automatic locking mode mustbe used when installing a childsafety seat in any passenger seat.

1. Buckle the combination lap andshoulder belt.

2. Grasp the shoulder belt portionand pull downward until the entirebelt is extracted.

3. Allow the belt to retract. As thebelt retracts, you will hear aclicking sound. This indicates thatthe safety belt is now in theautomatic locking mode.

Canceling automatic lockingmodeDisconnect the combination lapand shoulder belt and allow it tocompletely retract. This will cancelthe automatic locking mode andactivate the vehicle sensitive(emergency) locking mode.

14CSSen 17.6.99 10:59 Uhr Seite 80


81

Front seat safety belt heightadjustment

To lower the height of the shoulderbelt:

1. Push the control down.

2. Slide down.

To raise the height of the shoulderbelt:

1. Slide up.

2. Pull down on the height adjusterto make sure that it is locked inplace.

Position the shoulder beltheight adjuster so that the

belt rests across the middle ofyour shoulder. Be sure theshoulder belt is properlypositioned on your shoulder eachtime you use the belt. If theshoulder belt is off your shoulder,on your upper arm or neck, thereis a greater risk of severe injury ina collision.

14CSSen 17.6.99 10:59 Uhr Seite 81


82

Safety belt indicator light andwarning chimeIlluminates in the instrumentcluster and a chime sounds toremind the occupants to fastentheir safety belts.

Center position three-pointsafety beltsIf the lower end of the belt hasbeen unbuckled, pull the beltsteadily from the reel and insertthe small tongue into the smallbuckle until a distinct “click” isheard.

This buckle should be left buckledexcept when the seatback is foldeddown and cargo that might damagethe seatbelt or get it dirty is beinghauled.

Pull the seat belt across the hipsand insert the big (sliding) tongueinto the appropriate buckle until adistinct “click” is heard.

Should the center rear belt need tobe unlatched from its anchorage, athin probe is required to beinserted into the hole located onthe underside of the floor mountedbuckle. If the buckle and tongueare not reconnected, then the beltis not safe to be used.

Alternative design

14CSSen 17.6.99 10:59 Uhr Seite 82


83

Conditions of operation

If the driver’s safety belt is notbuckled before the ignition switchis turned to the ON position ...

The Saftety belt warning lightilluminates for one or two minutesand the warning chime sounds forfour to eight seconds.

The driver’s safety belt is buckledwhile the indicator light isilluminated and the warning chimeis sounding ...

The Saftety belt warning light andwarning chime turn off.

The driver’s safety belt is buckledbefore the ignition switch is turnedto the ON position ...

The Saftety belt warning light andwarning chime remain off.

If ... Then ...

Belt Minder (if equipped)The Belt Minder feature is asupplemental warning to the safetybelt warning function. This featureprovides additional reminders tothe driver that the driver’s safety

Conditions of operation

If the driver’s safety belt is notbuckled approximately 5 secondsafter the safety belt warning lighthas turned off...

The belt minder feature isactivated - the Saftety belt warninglight and the warning chime willcycle at 4 hertz for 6 seconds every30 seconds, repeating forapproximately 5 minutes or untilsafety belt is buckled.

The driver’s safety belt is buckledwhile the indicator light isilluminated and the warning chimeis sounding ...

The belt minder feature will notactivate.

The driver’s safety belt is buckledbefore the ignition switch is turnedto the ON position ...

The belt minder feature will notactivate.

If ... Then ...

belt is unbuckled by intermittentlysounding a chime and illuminatingthe Safety belt warning light in theinstrument cluster.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 83


84

1. Turn the ignition switch to theON position (DO NOT START THEENGINE).

2. Wait until the Saftety beltwarning light turns off(approximately one minute).

• Steps 3-5 must be completedwithin 60 seconds or the procedurewill have to be repeated.

3. Buckle then unbuckle the safetybelt three times, ending with thesafety belt unbuckled. This can bedone before or during Belt Minderwarning activation.

4. Turn on the headlamps, turn offthe headlamps.

5. Buckle then unbuckle the safetybelt three times, ending with thesafety belt unbuckled.

• After step 5, the Saftety beltwarning light will be turned on forthree seconds.

6. Within seven seconds of theSaftety belt warning light turningoff, buckle then unbuckle thesafety belt.

• This will enable Belt Minder if itis currently disabled, or disableBelt Minder if it is currentlyenabled.

To reduce the risk of injury,do not deactivate/activate

the Belt Minder feature whiledriving the vehicle.

Deactivating/activating the BeltMinder featureThe Belt Minder feature can bedeactivated/activated byperforming the followingprocedure:

Before following the procedure,make sure that:

• the parking brake is set.

• the gearshift is in P (Park)(automatic transaxle) or theneutral position (manualtransaxle).

• the ignition switch is in the OFFposition.

• all vehicle doors are closed.

• the driver’s safety belt isunbuckled.

• the parklamps/headlamps are inOFF position.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 84


85

Safety belt extension assemblyThe safety belt may be too shorteven when fully extended.Approximately 20 cm (8 inches)may be added to the length of thebelt with a safety belt extension(part number 611C22). Safety beltextensions are available at no costfrom your dealer.

Only use extensions manufacturedby the same supplier as the safetybelt. Manufacturer identification ison the label located at the end ofthe webbing.

Do not use the extension to changethe fit of the shoulder belt acrossthe torso.

7. Confirmation of enabling BeltMinder is provided by flashing theSaftety belt light four times persecond for three seconds, followedby three seconds with the Saftetybelt light off, then followed byflashing the Saftety belt light fourtimes per second for three secondsagain.

8. Confirmation of disabling BeltMinder is provided by flashing theSaftety belt light four times persecond for three seconds.

9. After receiving confirmation, thedeactivation/activation procedureis complete.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 85


86

Care of safety beltsPeriodically check the belts fordamage or fraying. Check thesecurity of the anchorage pointsand the locking action of the inertiareels by giving each belt a sharptug.

Belts subjected to strain, as in theresult of an accident, should bereplaced and the anchorageschecked by your dealer or aqualified technician.

Failure to follow theseinstructions will affect the

performance of the safety beltsand increase the risk of personalinjury.

Safety belt warning labelA warning label has been placed onthe buckle of each of your vehicle’sfront seat safety belts.

In a collision of sufficient severitywhile the safety belt is in use, thesafety belt buckle will pull out ofthe sleeve so that all or part of theorange portion of the label isvisible.

Whenever the orangeportion of the label is visible,

the safety belt must be replaced.

WARNING Replace buckle assembly if this vehicle is in a collision or if any orange portion of this label is visible. (See Owner Guide). Failure to replace this buckle assembly under the above conditions could result in severe personal injuries in the event of collision.

AVERTISSEMENT Remplacer l'ensemble de boucle de ceinture en cas de collision avec ce véhicule, ou si la partie orange de cette étiquette est visible (Voir le Guide du proprietaire). Faute de remplacer cet ensemble de boucle, des blessures graves pourraient être encourues en cas de collision.

REPLACE BUCKLE/REMPLACER LA BOUCLE

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 86


87

Important supplementalrestraint system (SRS)precautionsThe supplemental restraint system(SRS) is designed to work with thesafety belt to help protect thedriver and right front passengerfrom certain upper body injuries.

AIR BAG SUPPLEMENTALRESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)

MIRRORS

OFFLO PNL/FLRPANEL

A/C

FLOOR

DEF

FLR DEF

MAXA/C

HI/


SEEK

31 2

4 5

ANS

SIDE 1-2

EJECT

VOLUME

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90100110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200E F

1

2

0

3

x 1000

4 56

7

8

BRAKE

CHECKENGINE

O/DOFF

CLOCK

TRACTION TROL

C H

Always transport children12 years old and under in

the back seat and always useappropriate child restraints.

All occupants of the vehicleincluding the driver should

always properly wear their safetybelts even when air bag SRS isprovided.

NHTSA recommends aminimum distance of at least

25 cm (ten [10] inches) betweenan occupant’s chest and the airbag module.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 87


88

Do not attempt to service,repair, or modify the air bag

Supplemental Restraint System(SRS) or its fuses. See your Fordor Lincoln-Mercury dealer.

Air bags can kill or injure achild in a child seat. NEVER

place a rear-facing child seat infront of an active air bag. If youmust use a forward facing childseat in the front seat, move theseat all the way back.

Children and air bagsFor additional important safetyinformation, read all information onsafety restraints in this guide.

Children should always wear safetybelts. Failure to follow theseinstructions may increase the riskof injury in a collision.

Do not put anything on orover the air bag module.

Placing objects on or over the airbag inflation area may cause thoseobjects to be propelled by the airbag into your face and torsocausing serious injury.

Never place your arm overthe air bag module as a

deploying air bag can result inserious arm fractures or otherinjuries.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 88


89

How does the air bagsupplemental restraint system(SRS) work?The SRS is designed to activatewhen the vehicle is in a collision,similar to hitting a fixed barrierhead-on at 12-24 km/h (8-14 mph).

The fact that the air bags did notinflate in a collision does not meanthat something is wrong with thesystem. Rather, it means the forceswere not of the type sufficient tocause activation.

The air bags inflate and deflaterapidly upon activation.

After air bag deployment, it isnormal to notice a smoke-like,powdery residue or smell theburned propellant. This mayconsist of cornstarch, talcumpowder (to lubricate the bag), orsodium compounds (e.g., bakingsoda) that result from thecombustion process that inflatesthe air bag. Small amounts ofsodium hydroxide may be present,which may irritate the skin andeyes, but none of the residue istoxic.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 89


90

If the air bag is inflated, the

air bag will not function

again and must be replaced

immediately. If the air bag is notreplaced, the unrepaired area willincrease the risk of injury in acollision.

The SRS consists of the following:

• driver and passenger air bagmodules (which include theinflators and air bags),

• one impact and one safing sensor,

• a readiness light and a secondarywarning light, and

• the electrical wiring andcomponents.

The diagnostic module monitors itsown internal circuits and thesupplemental air bag electricalsystem readiness (including theimpact sensors), the system wiring,the air bag system readiness light,the air bag backup power, and theair bag ignitors.

Several air bag systemcomponents get hot after

inflation. Do not touch them afterinflation.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 90


91

Determining if the system isoperationalThe SRS uses a readiness light inthe instrument cluster or asecondary warning light to indicatethe condition of the system. Referto the Air bag readiness section inthe Instrumentation chapter.Routine maintenance of the air bagis not required.

A difficulty with the system isindicated by one or more of thefollowing:

• The readiness light will eitherflash or stay lit.

• The readiness light will notilluminate after ignition is turnedon.

• The air bag secondary warninglight will flash five times. Thepattern will repeat periodicallyuntil the problem or the readinesslight is repaired.

If any of these things happen, evenintermittently, have the SRSserviced at your dealership or by aqualified technician immediately.Unless serviced, the system maynot function properly in the eventof a collision.

CHECKENGINE

O/DOFF

TRACTIONCONTROL

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 91


92

Disposal of air bags and air bagequipped vehiclesFor disposal of air bags or air bagequipped vehicles, see your localdealership or a qualified technician.Air bags MUST BE disposed of byqualified personnel.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 92


93

Safety belts and seats canbecome hot in a vehicle that

has been closed up in sunnyweather; they could burn a smallchild. Check seat covers andbuckles before you place a childanywhere near them.

Do not leave children,unreliable adults, or pets

unattended in your vehicle.

To prevent the risk of injury,make sure children sit where

they can be properly restrained.

CHILDREN AND SAFETYRESTRAINTS

It is extremely dangerous toride in a cargo area, inside or

outside of a vehicle. In a collision,people riding in these areas aremore likely to be seriously injuredor killed. Do not allow people toride in any area of your vehiclethat is not equipped with seatsand safety belts. Be sure everyonein your vehicle is in a seat andusing a safety belt properly.

Whenever possible, putchildren in one of the rear

seats in your vehicle. Accidentstatistics indicate that children aresafer when properly restrained inthe rear seats than in the frontseats.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 93


94

Important child restraintprecautionsYou are required by law to usesafety restraints for children in theU.S. and Canada. If small childrenride in your vehicle (generallychildren who are 4 years old oryounger and who weigh 18 kg [40 lb] or less), you must put themin safety seats made especially forchildren. Check your local andstate or provincial laws for specificrequirements regarding the safetyof children in your vehicle.

Never let a passenger hold achild on his or her lap while

the vehicle is moving. Thepassenger cannot protect the childfrom injury in a collision.

Always follow the instructions andwarnings that come with any infantor child restraint you might use.

When possible, place children inthe rear seat of your vehicle.

Accident statistics suggest thatchildren are safer when properlyrestrained in the rear seatingpositions than in the front seatingposition.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 94


95

Children and safety beltsChildren who are too large for childsafety seats (as specified by thechild safety seat manufacturer)should always wear safety belts.

Follow all the important safetyrestraints and air bag precautionsthat apply to adult passengers inyour vehicle.

If the shoulder belt portion of acombination lap and shoulder beltcan be positioned so it does notcross or rest in front of the child’sface or neck, the child should wearthe lap and shoulder belt. Movingthe child closer to the center of thevehicle may help provide a goodshoulder belt fit.

If the shoulder belt cannot beproperly positioned:

• move the child to one of theseats with a lap belt only (ifequipped),

OR

• if the child is the appropriatesize, restrain the child in a safetyseat.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 95


96

To improve the fit of lap andshoulder belts on children whohave outgrown child safety seats,Ford recommends use of a belt-positioning booster seat that islabelled as conforming to all federalmotor vehicle safety standards.Belt-positioning booster seats raisethe child and provide a shorter,firmer seating posture and betterfit of lap and shoulder belts on thechild. A belt-positioning boosterseat should be used if the shoulderbelt rests in front of the child’s faceor neck, or if the lap belt does notfit snugly on both thighs, or if thethighs are too short to let the childsit all the way back on the seatcushion when the lower legs hangover the edge of the seat cushion.You may wish to discuss the specialneeds of your child with yourpediatrician.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 96


97

Built-in child safety seat (if equipped)The rear seat may include a built-inchild seat. This child seat conformsto all federal and local motorvehicle safety standards. Read thelabels located on the child seatcushion and shoulder belt forinformation on the built-in childseat.

Use the built-in child seat only ifthe child is at least one year old,weighs 10-27 kg (22-60 lbs) andthe child’s shoulders fit below theshoulder harness slots on the built-in child seat.

Children not meeting theserequirements should be secured inan aftermarket seat. Refer to Childsafety seats in this chapter.

Built-in child seats

All built-in child restraints,including seats, buckles,

retractors, seat latches, interlocks,and attaching hardware should beinspected by a qualified dealertechnician after any collision.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 97


98

Child seat interlock safetyfeatureThe interlock ensures that a childis not placed in the integrated childseat when the folding seatback isnot securely latched.

It prevents the seatback from beingunlatched while the child seat is inuse. When the child seat isdeployed, the seatback cannot bereleased.

Built-in child seat retractorsThe belts on built-in child seats areequipped with a retractor. Theretractor will automatically snugthe belts around the child. If thebelts do not remain snug, take thevehicle to your dealer or a qualifiedtechnician for child seat repair. Thebelts will not remain snug during acollision if the retractor is notfunctioning properly.

14CSSen 7/2/99 9:04 AM


99

1. Make sure that the seatback issecurely latched in place.

2. Grasp the child seat cushion andpull the top forward to release thelatch. Continue to unfold the childseat until it rests on the seat in thefully open position.

Placing your child in the built-inchild seat

Failure to follow all of theinstructions on the use of

this child restraint system canresult in your child striking thevehicle’s interior during a suddenstop or crash.

Never use the built-in childseat as a booster cushion

with the adult safety belts. A childusing the adult belts could slideforward and out from under thesafety belts.

The rear seatback must befully locked before operating

the child safety restraint system.

14CSSen 7/2/99 9:04 AM


100

4. If connected, squeeze the tabson the top and bottom of the chestclip and pull the halves apart toopen the chest clip. Then releasethe lower half of belt by pressingthe red button.

5. Place the child in the child seatand position the shoulder beltsover each shoulder.

3. Read all the information andwarnings on the child seat cushionand shoulder safety belt. Make surethe child is not too large for thechild seat.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 100


101

7. Fasten both halves of the chestclip below the child’s shoulders andadjust it to comfortably hold theshoulder belts in place on thechild’s chest. The color green mustappear in the indicator windowwhen fastened.

8. Pull the lap portion of the beltstoward you to make sure the crotchsafety belt buckle is properlyfastened and the retractor islocked.

9. If the belts become too tight,unbuckle the crotch safety beltbuckle to unlock the retractors,then reinsert both belt tongues.

If both tongues do not latchin the buckle, do not use the

child seat. See your dealer forrepairs.

6. Insert either the left or the rightsafety belt tongue into the singleopening of the crotch safety beltbuckle (it doesn’t matter whichtongue is inserted first). Insert theother tongue. The color green mustappear in the indicator window oneach tongue when buckled. Allowbelts to retract and fit snugly.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 101


102

To stow the built-in child seatReturn the child seat cushion tothe upright position, then pressfirmly in the center and top of thechild seat.

Removing your child from thebuilt-in child seat1. Squeeze the tabs on the top andthe bottom of the chest clip andpull the halves apart to open thechest clip.

2. Press the release button on thecrotch safety belt buckle.

3. Slide the shoulder belts off thechild’s shoulders and remove thechild.

Inspecting the built-in childseat after a collisionAll built-in child restraints,including seats, buckles, retractors,seat latches, interlocks andattaching hardware should beinspected by your dealer or aqualified technician after anycollision. If the child seat was inuse during a collision, Fordrecommends replacing it. Built-inchild restraints not in use during acollision should be inspected andreplaced if either damage orimproper operation is noted.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 102


103

Carefully follow all of themanufacturer’s instructions

included with the safety seat youput in your vehicle. If you do notinstall and use the safety seatproperly, the child may be injuredin a sudden stop or collision.

Ford recommends the use of achild safety seat having a top tetherstrap. Install the child safety seat ina seating position which is capableof providing a tether anchorage.For more information on top tetherstraps see Child safety seat tetherbelt anchor in this chapter.

When installing a child safety seat:

• Use the correct safety beltbuckle for that seating postion.

• Make sure the tongue is securelyfastened in the buckle.

• Keep the buckle release buttonpointing up and away from thesafety seat, with the tonguebetween the child seat and therelease button, to preventaccidental unbuckling.

• Put the safety belt in theautomatic locking mode. Refer toUsing automatic locking mode inthis chapter.

Child safety seats

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 103


104

Child safety seat tether beltanchorAll vehicles include a tetheranchorage hardware kit for usewith child safety seats. Somemanufacturers make child safetyseats with a tether strap that goesover the back of the vehicle seatand attaches to an anchoring pointbehind the vehicle seat.

Attachment holes (at each rearseating position) have beenprovided in your vehicle to attachthe anchorage hardware, ifrequired. Additional kits can beobtained at no charge from anyauthorized Ford dealer.(Installations instructions areincluded in the kit.)

2. Pull down on the shoulder beltand then grasp the shoulder beltand lap belt together.

Installing child safety seats incombination lap and shoulderbelt seat positions1. Position the child safety seat in aseat with a combination lap andshoulder belt.

When using forward-facingchild seats move the

passenger seat as far back fromthe instrument panel as possible.Never secure rear-facing infantseats in the front seat.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 104


105

3. While holding the shoulder andlap belt portions together, routethe tongue through the child seataccording to the child seatmanufacturer’s instructions. Besure the belt webbing is nottwisted.

4. Insert the belt tongue into theproper buckle for that seatingposition until you hear and feel thelatch engage. Make sure the tongueis latched securely by pulling on it.

5. To put the retractor in theautomatic locking mode, grasp theshoulder portion of the belt andpull downward until all of the beltis extracted and a click is heard.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 105


106

6. Allow the belt to retract. Thebelt will click as it retracts toindicate it is in the automaticlocking mode.

7. Pull the lap belt portion acrossthe child seat toward the buckleand pull up on the shoulder beltwhile pushing down with your kneeon the child seat.

8. Allow the safety belt to retract toremove any slack in the belt.

9. Before placing the child in theseat, forcibly tilt the seat forwardand back to make sure the seat issecurely held in place.

10. Try to pull the belt out of theretractor to make sure theretractor is in automatic lockingmode (you should not be able topull more belt out). If the retractoris not locked, unbuckle the belt andrepeat steps two through nine.

Check to make sure the child seatis properly secured before eachuse.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 106


107

Tether anchor hardwareTether anchor hardware kits (partnumber 613D74), includinginstructions, may be obtained at nocharge from any Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. All vehicles builtfor sale include a tether hardwarekit.

14CSSen 17.6.99 11:00 Uhr Seite 107

Starting

108

Extended idling at highengine speeds can produce

very high temperatures in theengine and exhaust system,creating the risk of fire or otherdamage.

IMPORTANT SAFETYPRECAUTIONSA computer system controls theengine’s idle revolutions per minute(rpm). When the engine starts, theidle rpm runs faster to warm theengine. If the engine idle speeddoes not slow down automatically,have the vehicle checked by yourdealer or a qualified servicetechnician. Do not allow the vehicleto idle for more than ten minutes.

Do not park, idle, or driveyour vehicle in dry grass or

other dry ground cover. Theemission system heats up theengine compartment and exhaustsystem, which can start a fire.

21CSten 17.6.99 11:06 Uhr Seite 108

Starting

109

IMPORTANT VENTILATIONINFORMATIONIf the engine is idling while thevehicle is stopped in an open areafor long periods of time, open thewindows at least 2.5 cm (1 inch).

OFF PNL/FLRPANEL

A/C

FLOOR

DEF

FLR DEF

MAXA/C

/

Adjust the heating or airconditioning to bring in fresh air.

Do not start your vehicle in aclosed garage or in other

enclosed areas. Exhaust fumescan be toxic. Always open thegarage door before you start theengine. See Guarding against

exhaust fumes in this chapter formore instructions.

21CSten 17.6.99 11:06 Uhr Seite 109

Starting

110

Improve vehicle ventilation bykeeping all air inlet vents clear ofsnow, leaves, and other debris.

Guarding against exhaustfumesAlthough odorless and colorless,carbon monoxide is present inexhaust fumes. Take precautions toavoid its dangerous effects.

Have the exhaust and bodyventilation system checkedwhenever:

• the vehicle is raised for service.

• the sound of the exhaust systemchanges.

• the vehicle has been damaged ina collision.

If you ever smell exhaustfumes of any kind inside

your vehicle, have your dealerinspect and fix your vehicleimmediately. Do not drive if yousmell exhaust fumes. These fumesare harmful and could kill you.

21CSten 17.6.99 11:06 Uhr Seite 110

Starting

111

PREPARING TO START THEVEHICLEEngine starting is controlled by thespark ignition system. This systemmeets all Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment standardrequirements regulating theimpulse electrical field strength ofradio noise.

When starting the engine, avoidpressing the accelerator pedalbefore or during starting. Only usethe accelerator pedal when youhave difficulty starting the engine.For more information on startingthe vehicle, refer to Starting theengine in this chapter.

Before starting the vehicle:

1. Make sure all vehicle occupantshave buckled their safety belts. Formore information on safety beltsand their proper usage, refer to theSeating and safety restraintschapter.

2. Make sure the headlamps andvehicle accessories are off.

21CSten 17.6.99 11:06 Uhr Seite 111

Starting

112

If starting a vehicle with anautomatic transaxle:

• Make sure the parking brake isset.

• Make sure the gearshift is in P(Park).

If starting a vehicle with a manualtransaxle:

• Make sure the parking brake isset.

• Push the clutch pedal to the floorotherwise the engine will not crank(turn over).

• Put the gearshift into neutral.

21CSten 17.6.99 11:06 Uhr Seite 112

Starting

113

3. Turn the key to the on position(without turning the key to start).

Make sure the following lightsilluminate briefly. If a light fails toilluminate, have the vehicleserviced by your dealer or aqualified service technician.

BRAKE

BRAKE

CHECKENGINE

• If the driver’s safety belt isfastened, the safety belt warninglight does not illuminate.

Alternative design

Alternative design

O/DOFF

TRACTIONCONTROL

21CSten 17.6.99 11:06 Uhr Seite 113

Starting

114

STARTING THE ENGINE

1. Turn the key to the startposition (4) without pressing theaccelerator pedal and release assoon as the engine starts. The keywill return to the on (3) position.

3

4

21

2. If the engine does not startwithin five seconds, wait tenseconds and try again.

3. If the engine does not start intwo attempts OR the temperatureis below -12°C (10°F), depress theaccelerator pedal and start theengine while holding theaccelerator pedal down. Releaseaccelerator pedal when the enginestarts.

Vehicles equipped with the 2.0 lengine: If the engine fails to start,continue to crank with theaccelerator depressed about 1/4 ofthe way down and hold thatposition until the engine starts.DO NOT crank for more than30 seconds or you could damagethe starter.

4. After idling the engine for a fewseconds, apply the brake pedal andrelease the parking brake.

21CSten 17.6.99 11:06 Uhr Seite 114

Starting

115

USING THE ENGINE BLOCKHEATER (if equipped)An engine block heater warms theengine coolant, which improvesstarting, warms up the enginefaster and allows the heater-defroster system to respondquickly. It is strongly recommendedif you live in a region wheretemperatures reach –23°C (–10°F)or below.

For best results, plug the heater inat least three hours before startingthe vehicle. Using the heater formore than three hours will notharm the engine, so the heater canbe plugged in the night beforestarting the vehicle.

To prevent electrical shock,do not use your heater with

ungrounded electrical systems ortwo-pronged (cheater) adapters.

21CSten 17.6.99 11:06 Uhr Seite 115

116

Driving

BRAKESYour brakes are self-adjusting.Refer to the “ScheduledMaintenance Guide” formaintenance intervals.

Anti-lock braking system (ABS)(if equipped)The ABS operates by detecting theonset of wheel lock-up duringbrake applications andcompensating for this tendency.The wheels are prevented fromlocking even when the brakes arefirmly applied, helping to ensurethat the vehicle can be steered andthe driver can avoid obstacles.

Operation of the anti-lockbraking systemThe anti-lock braking system is notemployed during normal braking. Itbecomes operational only when itsenses differences in the rotationalspeed of the road wheels,indicating that they are about tolock-up. Its operation is indicatedby a pulsing of the brake pedal. Donot release the pedal while braking.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:08 Uhr Seite 116

Driving

117

Two importantrules whenbraking inemergencies withABS:

1.Apply full forceon both brakeand clutch pedal(if equipped).

Braking with ABS• In an emergency, apply full forceon the brake pedal. In vehicleswith manual transaxles, you mustalso depress the clutch pedal. Theanti-lock braking system will beactivated immediately, allowingyou to retain full steering controlof your vehicle and, providingthere is sufficient space, willenable you to avoid obstacles.

• We recommend that youfamiliarize yourself with thisbraking technique. However,avoid taking any unnecessaryrisks.

• Although the ABS ensuresoptimum braking efficiency,stopping distances can varygreatly, depending on the roadsurface and conditions. Use of the ABS cannot eliminate thedangers inherent in driving tooclose to the vehicle in front of you,hydroplaning, excessive corneringspeed, or poor road surfaces.

2. Steer around theobstacle. No matterhow hard you brake,steering control ismaintained.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:08 Uhr Seite 117

Driving

118

Parking brakeTo engage the parking brake:

Pull the handle upward.

To release the parking brake:

1. Press and hold the releasebutton.

2. Push handle downward to the offposition.

Always set the parking brakefully and make sure that the

gearshift is securely latched in P(Park) (automatic transaxle) or in1 (first) (manual transaxle).

To prevent personal injury,do not release the parking

brake while outside the vehicle.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:08 Uhr Seite 118

Driving

119

TRACTION CONTROL(if equipped)This system prevents wheel spin atall speeds. The control will togglethis function on and off, but thefeature defaults to on after eachcycle of the ignition key.

The traction control systemcontrols excessive wheel spin byautomatically applying andreleasing the brakes in conjunctionwith engine torque reductions.

This can occur when acceleratingon a slippery road, a loose surfaceor when pulling away on a hill. Thetraction control lamp flashes on theinstrument panel when the systemis functioning to regulate tiretraction.

When the ignition is turned to theon position, the traction controlsystem light comes on forapproximately three (3) seconds. Ifthe light does not come on whenthe ignition is turned to the onposition or if it remains oncontinuously when the tractioncontrol system is turned on, havethe system serviced by your dealeror a qualified service technician.You can continue to drive and donot need to have the vehicle towedin.

You should not take unnecessarydriving risks because of thesystem’s safety potential.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:08 Uhr Seite 119

Driving

120

STEERING YOUR VEHICLEYour vehicle comes with powersteering. Power steering usesenergy from the engine to helpsteer your vehicle.

If the amount of effort needed tosteer your vehicle changes at aconstant vehicle speed, have thepower steering system checked. Ifthe power steering system breaksdown (or if the engine is turnedoff), you can steer the vehiclemanually but it takes more effort.

Never hold the steering wheel tothe extreme right or left for morethan five seconds if the engine isrunning. This can damage thepower steering pump.

Switching off traction controlIf you become stuck in snow or ona slippery road surface, tryswitching off the traction controlsystem by pressing the switch. Thismay allow the excess wheel spin to“dig“ the vehicle out or enable asuccessful “rocking“ maneuver. Donot rock the vehicle for more thana few minutes, because it coulddamage the vehicle.

The light in the control illuminatescontinuously when the system hasbeen switched off. To reactivatethe system, depress the switchagain or restart the engine.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:08 Uhr Seite 120

Driving

121

TRANSAXLE OPERATION

Automatic transaxle(if equipped)Your 2.5 l V6 automatic transaxleelectronically controls the shift feelby using an adaptive learningstrategy. This feature is designed tooptimize shift smoothness. It isnormal for your transaxle to adjustduring the first few hundredkilometers (miles) of operationuntil the adaptive strategy hasbeen learned. The adaptivelearning strategy is maintained bypower from the battery. When thebattery is disconnected or a newbattery is installed, the transaxlemust relearn its adaptive strategy.Optimal shifting will resume withina few hundred kilometers (miles)of operation.

Vehicles equipped with anautomatic transaxle are equippedwith a brake-shift interlock featurethat prevents the gearshift leverfrom being moved from the P(Park) position unless the brakepedal is depressed.

Putting your vehicle in gearYou must push the thumb button tomove the gearshift to the positionyou choose.

To operate:

1. Start the engine.

2. Depress and hold the brakepedal.

3. Move the gearshift lever out ofP (Park).

Speed sensitive power steering(if equipped)The steering system is speedsensitive. This means that thesteering effort is light for parkingand heavier for highway driving.However, if you have to swervearound an object or anothervehicle, your vehicle will have fullpower assist.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:08 Uhr Seite 121

Driving

122

Overriding the brake-shiftinterlock featureIf it is necessary to use thisprocedure to move the gearshiftlever, it is possible that a fuse hasblown and the vehicle’s brakelampsmay not be working. Refer to Fusesand relays in the Roadsideemergencies chapter.

If you cannot move the gearshiftlever from P (Park) with the brakepedal depressed:

1. Turn the ignition off and removethe ignition key.

2. Apply the parking brake and thebrake pedal.

3. Insert a screwdriver or similaritem about 5 cm (2 inches) into thesquare opening to the right of thegearshift at the base of the console.

4. Rotate the screwdriver pointrearward.

5. Push and hold the thumb buttonand move the gearshift.

6. Remove the screwdriver whenthe gearshift moves from the P(Park) position.

The console-mounted gearshift willlock when you turn the key to thelock position. When the gearshift isin any position except P (Park),the ignition key cannot be turnedto lock or removed from thesteering column. To remove thekey, the gearshift lever must be inP (Park).

Once the gearshift is secure in thedesired position, release the brakepedal and use the accelerator asnecessary.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 122

Driving

123

Driving

Never leave a vehicleunattended while it is

running.

• P (Park)Always come to a complete stopbefore shifting into P (Park). Thislocks the transaxle and preventsthe front wheels from rotating.

• R (Reverse)The vehicle only moves backward.Always come to a complete stopbefore shifting in or out of R(Reverse).

P = Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

R = Reverse . . . . . . . . . . .

N = Neutral. . . . . . . . . . . .

D = Drive: Gear 1 to 4with overdrive . . . . . . Gear 1 to 3with overdrive cancelled . . . . . . . . . .

2 = Gear 2 . . . . . . . . . . . .

1 = Gear 1 . . . . . . . . . . . .

Understanding gearshiftpositionsTo account for customer drivinghabits and conditions, your 2.5 l V6automatic transaxle electronicallycontrols the shift feel by using anadaptive learning strategy. Duringthe first few hundred kilometers(miles) of operation, it is normalfor your transaxle to adjust. Theadaptive learning strategy ismaintained by power from thebattery. When the battery isdisconnected or a new battery isinstalled, the transaxle mustrelearn its adaptive strategy.Optimal shifting will resume withina few hundred kilometers (miles)of operation.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 123

Driving

124

• D (Overdrive)Note that the vehicle’s gearshift isconsole-mounted on the floor. Thetransaxle control switch (TCS) islocated on the gearshift handle.The transaxle control indicatorlight (O/D light) is located on theinstrument panel.

Overdrive is not shown on thedisplay, but is the default mode forthe D gearshift position. This is thenormal driving mode for the bestfuel economy. The transaxleoperates in gears one through four.The O/D light is off (notilluminated) during normal vehicleoperation.

Overdrive can be deactivated bypressing the transaxle controlswitch (TCS) located on thegearshift handle. The O/D OFFindicator light will illuminate in theinstrument cluster.

• N (Neutral)

The wheels of the transaxle are notlocked. Your vehicle will roll freely,even on the slightest incline, unlessthe parking brake or brakes are on.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 124

Driving

125

• D (Drive)D (Drive) provides more enginebraking than overdrive and isuseful when driving through hillyterrain or if your vehicle requiresadditional power for climbing hills.Activate by pressing the transaxlecontrol switch (TCS) located onthe gearshift handle. The O/D OFFindicator light will illuminate in theinstrument cluster. Transaxleoperates in gears one throughthree.

To return to overdrive mode, pressthe transaxle control switch.TheO/D OFF indicator light willextinguish.

When starting your vehicle, thetransaxle will automatically returnto normal overdrive mode when theD (Drive) gearshift position isselected.

O/DOFF

TRACTIONCONTROL

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 125

Driving

126

• 1 (First)Use the 1 (First) position toprovide maximum engine brakingon steep downgrades. Upshifts willnot occur while the gearshift leverremains in the 1 (First) position.Upshifts may be made by shiftingto the 2 (second) position or to D(Drive). Selecting the 1 (First)position at high speeds causes thetransaxle to downshift through thegears and will shift to 1 (First)after the vehicle decelerates to thetransaxle first gear designed speed.Do not go faster than 60 km/h (38 mph) in this gear.

• 2 (Second)Use the 2 (Second) position tostart up on slippery roads or toprovide additional braking ondowngrades. When your vehicle isin 2 (Second), it automaticallystarts off in second gear. Do not gofaster than 90 km/h (55 mph) inthis gear.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 126

Driving

127

Manual transaxle (if equipped)Vehicles equipped with a manualtransaxle have a starter interlockthat prevents cranking the engineunless the clutch pedal is fullydepressed.

Using the clutchWhen starting a vehicle with amanual transaxle:

1. Hold down the brake pedal.

2. Depress the clutch pedal.

3. Put the gearshift lever in neutral.

4. Start the vehicle.

5. Put the gearshift in 1 (First) or R(Reverse).

6. Release the clutch slowly whilepressing gradually down on theaccelerator pedal.

Do not drive with your foot restingon the clutch pedal. Do not use theclutch to hold your vehicle at astandstill while waiting on a hill.These actions may reduce theclutch life.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 127

Driving

128

22

Recommended shift speeds2.0 litre engine 5-speed transaxle

shift speed schedulesRecommended

upshifts:Shift from km/h mph

14

25

33

48

40

53

77

mph

12

20

29

40

km/h

19

32

64

First to second

Second to third

Third to fourth

Fourth to fifth

During acceleration: During cruise*:

46

2.5 litre engine 5-speed transaxleshift speed schedules

km/h mph km/h mph

10

20

31

40

16

32

50

64

14

25

33

45

22

40

53

73

Shift from

First to second

Second to third

Third to fourth

Fourth to fifth

Recommendedupshifts: During acceleration: During cruise*:

*The vehicle can be shifted at lower speeds to improve fuel economy.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 128

Driving

129

Parking1. Apply the brake and the clutchand shift into neutral.

2. Engage the parking brake.

3. Shift into 1 (First) or R(Reverse).

4. Turn the ignition off.

Do not park your vehicle inNeutral, it may move

unexpectedly and injure someone.Use 1 (first) gear and set theparking brake.

ReverseTo shift into R (Reverse):

1. Completely stop your vehicle.

2. Depress the clutch pedal to thefloor and place the gearshift leverin the neutral position. Do notrelease the clutch pedal.

3. If the following direction is notfollowed, a grinding noise mayoccur.

Wait a minimum of three secondsbefore attempting to shift into R(Reverse) gear.

1

2

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 129

Driving

130

GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight)Base curb weight plus the payloadweight. The GVW is not a limit or aspecification.

PayloadCombined maximum allowableweight of passengers, cargo, andoptional equipment.

LOADING YOUR VEHICLEBefore loading your vehicle,familiarize yourself with theseterms.

Base curb weight

Weight of the vehicle including anystandard equipment, fluids, andlubricants. It does not includepassengers or aftermarketequipment.

4. Push the gearshift levercompletely to the right, pull up thering on the stalk of the gearshiftlever, and then pull rearward onthe gearshift lever to engage the R(Reverse) gear.

5. If the R (Reverse) gear isengaged, slowly release the clutchpedal from the floor.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 130

Driving

131

GCW (Gross Combined Weight)The GCW is the maximumcombined weight of the towingvehicle (including passengers andcargo) and the loaded trailer. TheGCW is specified by themanufacturer to indicate thecombined maximum loaded weightthat the vehicle is designed to tow.

GAWR (Gross Axle WeightRating)Carrying capacity for each axlesystem (front and rear). TheGAWR is specific to each vehicleand is listed on the SafetyCompliance Certification Label onthe driver’s door pillar.

GVWR (Gross Vehicle WeightRating)Maximum total weight of the basevehicle, passengers, optionalequipment, and cargo. The GVWRis specific to each vehicle and islisted on the Safety ComplianceCertification Label on the driver’sdoor pillar.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 131

Driving

132

Payload = GVWR minus Basecurb weightTo obtain the correct weight foryour vehicle, try taking yourvehicle to a shipping company oran inspection station for trucks.

Do not use replacement tires withlower weight capacities than theoriginals because they might lowerthe vehicle’s GVWR and GAWR.(Replacement tires with a higherweight limit than the originals donot increase the GVWR and GAWRlimitations.)

In high altitudes, engines will losepower at a rate of 3% power per300 m (1 000 ft) increase inelevation. A reduction in GVW andGCW is recommended formaximum vehicle performance.

-9%

-6%

-3%

900 m(3000 ft)

600 m(2000 ft)

300 m(1000 ft)

0

Do not exceed the GVWR orthe GAWR specified on the

Safety Compliance CertificationLabel.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 132

Driving

133

It is extremly dangerous toride in a cargo area, inside or

outside of a vehicle. In a collision,people riding in these areas aremore likely to be seriously injuredor killed. Do not allow people toride in any area of your vehiclethat is not equipped with seatsand safety belts. Be sure everyonein your vehicle is in a seat andusing a safety belt properly.

Driving with a heavy loadThe total weight of the vehicle plusthe total weight of passengers andcargo should never exceed theGVWR.

The weight that the vehicle carriesover the front and rear axlesshould never exceed the GAWR forthe respective axle.

The weight limits of your vehicle’stires affect the GVWR and GAWRlimitations. Using tires with higherweight limits than the original tireswill not increase the GVWR orGAWR of your vehicle; using tireswith lower weight limits may lowerthe GVWR or GAWR of yourvehicle.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 133

Driving

134

TRAILER TOWINGFor vehicles equipped with 2.0 Lengines and automatic transaxles,an auxiliary cooler must beinstalled prior to trailer towing toprotect the power steering andtransaxle system.

Your vehicle is capable of towing atrailer of up to a maximum of454 kg (1 000 lbs) gross trailerweight with a maximum tongueload of 45 kg (100 lbs). The trailershould also have 2.3 sq. meters(25 sq. feet) or less frontal area. Donot drive faster than 72 km/h(45 mph) while towing a 454 kg(1 000 lb) trailer.

Your vehicle does not come fromthe factory fully equipped to tow.No towing packages are availablethrough Ford or Lincoln/Mercurydealers.

Trailer towing puts additional loadson your vehicle’s engine, transaxle,axle, brakes, tires, and suspension.For your safety and to maximizevehicle performance, be sure to usethe proper equipment whiletowing.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 134

Driving

135

Follow these guidelines to ensuresafe towing procedure:

• Stay within your vehicle’s loadlimits.

• Thoroughly prepare your vehiclefor towing. Refer to Preparing totow in this chapter.

• Use extra caution when drivingwhile trailer towing. Refer toDriving while towing a trailer inthis chapter.

• Service your vehicle morefrequently if you tow a trailer.Refer to the severe duty schedulein the “Scheduled MaintenanceGuide”.

• Do not tow a trailer until yourvehicle has been driven at least800 km (500 miles).

• Refer to the instructionsincluded with towing accessoriesfor the proper installation andadjustment specifications.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 135

Driving

136

Preparing to towUse the proper equipment fortowing a trailer and make sure thatit is properly attached to yourvehicle. See your dealer or areliable trailer retailer if yourequire assistance.

Auxiliary coolers are recommendedfor the power steering system andautomatic transaxle system if youare planning on:

• Traveling farther than 80 km(50 miles).

• Towing in hilly terrain.

• Towing frequently.

Towing trailers beyond themaximum recommended

gross trailer weight exceeds thelimit of the vehicle and couldresult in engine damage, transaxledamage, structural damage, loss ofcontrol, and personal injury.

Do not exceed the maximum loadslisted on the Safety ComplianceCertification Label. For loadspecification terms found on thelabel, refer to Loading yourvehicle in this chapter. Rememberto figure in the tongue load of yourloaded vehicle when figuring thetotal weight.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 136

Driving

137

Using a hitchDo not use hitches that:

• Clamp onto the vehicle bumper.

• Attach to the axle.

Distribute the load so that only 10to 15% of the total weight of thetrailer is on the tongue. Tie downthe load so that it does not shiftand change weight on the hitch.Follow the instructions of areputable rental agency.

Using trailer lampsSee your local trailer retailer orrental agency for properinstructions and equipment forhooking up trailer lamps.

Do not hook the trailer lampsdirectly into the vehicle’s wiringsystem. If the trailer lamps are notworking properly, the warninglights in the instrument cluster maynot work properly.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 137

Driving

138

Using trailer brakesUse electric brakes or manual,automatic or surge type hydraulicbrakes that meet federal and localregulations. Install and adjustbrakes according to themanufacturer’s instructions.

Using safety chainsAlways connect the trailer’s safetychains to the vehicle. To connectthe chains, cross the chains underthe trailer tongue and attach to thevehicle frame or hook retainers(not the bumper). Make sure thereis enough slack to allow the vehicleto turn corners.

Do not connect a trailer’shydraulic brake system

directly to your vehicle’s brakesystem. Your vehicle may not haveenough braking power and yourchances of having a collisiongreatly increase.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 138

Driving

139

Driving while towing a trailerDo not drive faster than 72 km/h(45 mph) while towing a 454 kg(1 000 lb) trailer. Do not drivefaster than 72 km/h (45 mph) withany weight trailer while towing inhilly terrain or on hot days.

Speed control (if equipped) maynot work properly while towing onlong, steep grades.

If driving with an automatictransaxle:

• Use D (Drive) or a low gearrather than D (Overdrive) bydepressing the TCS button on theunderside of the gearshift lever,while towing up or down steepinclines.

• Anticipate stops and brakegradually.

If driving with a manual transaxle:

• Select a gear that avoids jerkingor excessive engine speed.

• Avoid driving excessively in firstor second gear. If you need to driveexcessively in first or second gear,the trailer may be too big or tooheavily loaded for the vehicledrivetrain.

• Shift to a lower gear whiletowing up or down steep hills.

• Anticipate stops and brakegradually.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 139

Driving

140

FUEL CONSUMPTIONFuel economy can be improved byavoiding:

• lack of regular, scheduledmaintenance,

• excessive speed,

• rapid acceleration,

• driving with the brake pedaldepressed,

• sudden stops,

• extended engine idling,

• use of speed control in hillyterrain,

• extended use of the airconditioner, defroster, rear windowdefroster and other accessories,

• underinflated tires,

• heavy loads,

• aftermarket add-ons such asbike, ski or luggage racks, bugdeflectors, etc.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 140

Roadside emergencies

141

HAZARD FLASHER CONTROLUse only in an emergency to warntraffic of vehicle breakdown orapproaching danger. Depress toactivate. Depress again to switchoff. The hazard lights can beoperated when the ignition is off.

FUEL PUMP SHUT-OFF SWITCHIf the engine cranks, but does notstart or does not start after acollision, the fuel pump shut-offswitch may have been activated.The shut-off switch is a deviceintended to stop the electric fuelpump when your vehicle has beeninvolved in a substantial jolt.

Once the shut-off switch isactivated, you must reset theswitch by hand before you can startyour vehicle. The switch is locatedon the side panel in front of thedriver’s side door.

22CDren 17.6.99 11:09 Uhr Seite 141

142


If your engine cranks but does notstart after a collision or substantialjolt:

1. Turn the ignition key to the offposition.

2. Check under the vehicle forleaking fuel.

3. If you do not see or smell fuel,push the red reset button down. Ifthe button is already set, you mayhave a different mechanicalproblem.

4. Turn the ignition key to the onposition for a few seconds, thenturn it to the off position.

5. Check under the vehicle againfor leaking fuel. If you see or smellfuel, do not start your vehicleagain. If you do not see or smellfuel, you can try to start yourvehicle again.

If you see or smell fuel, donot reset the switch or try to

start your vehicle. Have all thepassengers get out of the vehicleand call the local fire departmentor a towing service.

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 142


143

Even after a fuse is replaced, it willcontinue to blow if the cause of theoverload is not identified andcorrected. If the fuse continues toblow, have the vehicle’s electricalsystem checked by your dealer or aqualified service technician.

To reset a circuit breaker, press thereset button.

The passenger compartment fusepanel is located on the driver’s sideunder the instrument panel. Thepower distribution box is locatedon the driver’s side of the enginecompartment.

They contain the main fuses andthe main relays. The circuitsprotected are identified bynumbers on the passengercompartment fuse panel and insidethe cover on the power distributionbox.

FUSES AND RELAYSIf electrical components in thevehicle are not working, a fuse mayhave blown. Blown fuses areidentified by a broken wire. Checkthe appropriate fuses beforereplacing any electricalcomponents.

Always replace a fuse withone that has the specified

amperage rating. Using a fuse withhigher amperage rating can causesevere wire damage and couldstart a fire.

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 143


144

1

11 12 13 14 15 16

R6R5R4R3R2

10

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

R1

R7 R8 R9 R10 R11D1

D2

17 18 46 47 48 49 50 51 52

39 40 41 42 43 44 45

Power distribution boxTo check or replace a fuse or arelay, remove the cover of the fusebox in the engine compartment byreleasing the latch (1) and liftingup.

A blown fuse can be identified by abreak in the wire.

All fuses are a push fit.

Five reserve fuses with differentcurrent ratings are located in thepower distribution box.

Always replace the cover tothe Power Distribution Box

before reconnecting the battery orrefilling fluid reservoirs.

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 144


145

Ampererating

Circuits protected

123456789

1011121314151617183940414243444546474849505152

—7.520——320—15—20—207.57.57.57.57.5—20*20*40*——60*———60*—60*60*

Not usedAlternatorFoglampsNot usedNot usedEEC ignition module (memory)Horn and hazard flasher warning systemNot usedFuel pumpNot usedIgnition, Electronic Engine ControlNot usedHEGO sensorABS moduleLow beam headlamp (passenger’s side)Low beam headlamp (driver’s side)High beam headlamp (passenger’s side)High beam headlamp (driver’s side)Not usedIgnition, light switch, central junction boxEEC relayCentral junction box (fuse 37 to blower relay)Not usedNot usedIgnitionNot usedNot usedNot usedEngine coolingnot usedABSCentral junction box (central timer module, rearwindow defrost relay, fuses 24, 25, 27, 28, 34)

FusePower distribution box (engine compartment)

* Have these fuses replaced by your dealer or qualified technician.

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 145


146

Power distribution box (engine compartment)

Relay Circuits switched

R 1R 2R 3R 4R 5R 6R 7R 8R 9

R 10R 11D1D2

Passenger compartment fusepanel To check or change a fuse or arelay, open the fuse box by pullingdown the lock release lever (1).

1

Fuel pumpEEC moduleAir conditioningLow beamHigh beamHornStarter solenoidEngine cooling fan (high speed)Engine cooling fanNot usedDaytime running lightsReverse voltage protectionNot used

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 146


147

A blown fuse can be identified by abreak in the wire.

All fuses are a push fit.

Five reserve fuses with differentcurrent ratings are attached to theinside cover of the powerdistribution box in case ofemergency fuse replacement.

19 20 21

R16

R15

R14

R12R13

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38

D2

Passenger compartment fuse panel (below instrument panel)

Relay Circuit switched

R 12R 13R 14R 15R 16D 2

Interior lightingRear window defrostHeater blower motorWiper motorIgnitionReverse voltage protection

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 147


148

19202122232425262728293031323334

35363738

—C1040—1515207.51530307.57.57.57.57.5

7.5—30—

Not usedWiper motors (circuit breaker)Power windows Not usedBackup lampsBrake lampsDoor locksMain lightCigar lighterElectric seatsRear window defrostEngine management systemInstrument panel illuminationRadioParking lamps - driver’s sideInterior lighting/electric mirroradjustment Parking lamps - passenger’s sideNot usedHeater blower motorNot used

Passenger compartment fuse panel (below instrument panel)

FuseAmpererating Circuits protected

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 148


149

Fuse rating

7.5 amp10 amp15 amp20 amp30 amp

30 amp fuse link40 amp

60 amp fuse link80 amp fuse link100 amp fuse link

Color

brownred

light blueyellow

light greenpink

orangeyellowblackblue

Relay

R 18

R 20R 21R 22R 23R 24

R 25

R 26R 32

“One touch” switch (driver’s window)Not usedNot usedFoglampsTurn signalsPanic alarm –driver’s sidePanic alarm – right-hand sideNot usedHego heater control

Driver’s door

——

Wire shield on instrument panelSteering columnDoor lock module bracket

Door lock module bracket

—Near PCM-Module

Circuits switched Location

Standard fuse amperage ratingsand colors

3 amp violet

Auxiliary relays (outside of fuse boxes)

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 149


150

CHANGING TIRESPark your vehicle in such a positionthat neither the traffic nor you arehindered or endangered whenchanging the tire. Ensure that thevehicle is on firm, level ground.Secure your vehicle further byblocking the wheels.

Activate the hazard lights.

Apply the parking brake andengage first or reverse gear if thevehicle has a manual transaxle or, ifthe vehicle has an automatictransaxle, select the P (Park)position.

If parking on a slope is unavoidable,block the wheels.

The temporary spare tireThe vehicle may have a highpressure temporary spare tire. Thisspare is smaller than a regular tireand is designed for emergency useonly. This tire should be replacedas soon as possible.

If you use the temporaryspare tire continuously or do

not follow these precautions, thetire could fail, causing you to losecontrol of the vehicle, possiblyinjuring yourself or others.

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 150


151

80MAX

km/h

When driving with a temporaryspare tire:

• Do not exceed the maximumspeed of 80 km/h (50 mph) andonly drive the shortest possibledistance.

• Do not exceed the permissiblegross weight of the vehicle.

• Do not install more than onespare wheel on your vehicle at anyone time.

• Do not use snow chains on thistype of wheel.

• Do not drive through anautomatic car wash.

Spare tire locationThe spare tire and tools are locatedunder the floor cover in theluggage compartment.

50MAX

mph

Removing the spare tire andtools1. Raise the rear of the floor coverin the luggage compartment.

2. Completely unscrew the bolt andremove the bolt and bracket.

3. Lift out the spare wheel.

4. Unscrew the jack bolt andremove jack.

5. Obtain jack handle, which islocated on the floor under thespare wheel.

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 151


152

Removing a tire1. Apply the parking brake and 1(first) gear (manual transaxle) orthe P (Park) position (automatictransaxle).

2. Activate the hazard flashers.

3. The driver and all passengersmust leave the vehicle.

4. Secure the vehicle against rollingor sliding.

5. Insert the tapered end of thejack handle between the rim andhub cover and push in. Twist off toremove the cover.

6. Loosen the wheel nuts slightly.

Tire changing procedure

7. Place jack with complete supportsurface on the ground.

8. The jack must be applied exactlyvertical to the jacking point of thevehicle.

9. Jack up the vehicle until the tireis clear of the ground. Unscrew andremove the wheel nuts and removethe wheel.

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 152


153

Replacing a tire1. Push the spare tire onto thewheel studs.

2. Screw on the wheel nuts,ensuring the tapered end of thewheel nuts are facing the wheel,and secure in a clockwise direction.

3. Lower the vehicle and removethe jack by turning the handlecounterclockwise.

4. Fully tighten the wheel nuts in acrosswise pattern.

5. Align the hub cap with the valveand push firmly into position withthe ball of the hand.

6. Stow the jack and damaged tirein the luggage compartment byreversing the spare tire removalinstructions.

3

4

21

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 153


154

JUMP STARTING YOURVEHICLE

The gases around thebattery can explode if

exposed to flames, sparks, or litcigarettes. An explosion couldresult in injury or vehicle damage.

Do not push start yourvehicle. You could damage

the catalytic converter.

Batteries contain sulfuricacid which burns skin, eyes,

and clothing if contacted.

Do not attempt to push startyour vehicle. Automatictransaxles do not have push-start capability.

Preparing your vehicle1. Use only a 12-volt supply tostart your vehicle.

2. Do not disconnect the battery ofthe disabled vehicle as this coulddamage the vehicle’s electricalsystem.

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 154


155

3. Park the booster vehicle close tothe hood of the disabled vehicle,making sure the two vehicles donot touch. Set the parking brakeon both vehicles and stay clear ofthe engine cooling fan and othermoving parts.

4. Check all battery terminals andremove any excessive corrosionbefore you attach the batterycables. Ensure that vent caps aretight and level.

5. Turn the heater fan on in bothvehicles to protect from anyelectrical surges. Turn all otheraccessories off.

Connecting the jumper cables1. Connect the positive (+) boostercable to the positive (+) terminal ofthe discharge battery.

Note: In the illustrations,“lightning bolts” are used todesignate the assisting (boosting)battery.

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 155


156

2. Connect the other end of thepositive (+) cable to the positive(+) terminal of the assistingbattery.

3. Connect the negative (-) cableto the negative (-) terminal of theassisting battery.

4. Make the final connection of thenegative (-) cable to an exposedmetal part of the stalled vehicle’sengine, away from the battery andthe carburetor.

The preferred locations of anexposed metal part (to “ground”the circuit) are the accessibleengine mount studs or an enginelifting “eye”. Do not use fuel lines,engine rocker covers, or the intakemanifold as “grounding” points.

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 156


157

Do not connect the end ofthe second cable to the

negative (-) terminal of thebattery to be jumped. A spark maycause an explosion of the gasesthat surround the battery.

• 2.0 litre engine

• 2.5 litre engine

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 157


158

Jump starting1. Start the engine of the boostervehicle and run the engine at amoderately increased speed.

2. Start the engine of the disabledvehicle.

3. Once the disabled vehicle hasbeen started, run both engines fora further three minutes beforedisconnecting the jumper cables.

Removing jumper cablesRemove the jumper cables inthe reverse order that theywere connected.

1. Remove the jumper cable fromthe “ground” metal surface.

5. Be sure that the cables are clearof fan blades, belts and othermoving parts of both engines.

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 158


159

2. Remove the jumper cable on thenegative (-) connection of thebooster vehicle’s battery.

4. Remove the jumper cable fromthe positive (+) terminal of thedisabled vehicle’s battery.

3. Remove the jumper cable fromthe positive (+) terminal of thebooster vehicle’s battery.

After the disabled vehicle has beenstarted and the jumper cablesremoved, allow it to idle for severalminutes so the engine computercan “relearn” its idle conditions.

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 159


160

If towing is necessary, it isrecommended that your vehicle betowed with a wheel lift or flatbedequipment. Do not tow withslingbelt equipment. Ford MotorCompany has not developed orapproved a T-hook or slingbelttowing procedure.

WRECKER TOWING

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 160


161

Never use a tow bar thatattaches to the bumper

when you tow your vehicle. Thiscould damage the bumper andcause an accident.

TOWING YOUR VEHICLEBEHIND ANOTHER VEHICLEBefore you have your vehicletowed:

• release the parking brake,

• move the gearshift to N(Neutral),

• turn the ignition to the offposition and

• unlock the steering wheel.

Recreational towing or havingyour vehicle towedAn example of recreational towingwould be towing your vehiclebehind a Motorhome. Follow theseguidelines if you have the need forrecreational towing.

These guidelines are designed toensure that your transaxle is notdamgaged.

It is not recommended to tow frontwheel drive vehicles with the frontdrive wheels on the ground.

It is recommended to tow yourvehicle with the drive wheels on adolly or two wheel car haulingtrailer.

Automatic transaxleIn case of a roadside emergencywith a disabled vehicle (withoutaccess to wheel dollies, car haulingtrailer or flatbed transport vehicle)your vehicle can be flat towed (allwheels on the ground) under thefollowing conditions.

• Place the transaxle in N(Neutral)

• Do not exceed a distance of 80km (50 miles).

• Do not exceed 56 km/h (35 mph)vehicle speed.

Manual transaxle

Do not tow your vehicle at a speedfaster than 90 km/h (55 mph). Yourmaximum towing distance isunlimited.

23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 161

Maintenance and care

162

SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS• We highlight do-it-yourself itemsin the engine compartment for easylocation.

• As possible, we design parts thatcan be replaced without tools.

• We provide you with a“Scheduled Maintenance Guide”which makes tracking routineservice for your vehicle easy.

If your vehicle requires professionalservice, your Ford dealership canprovide necessary parts andservice. Check your “WarrantyGuide” to find out which parts andservices are covered.

Use only recommended fuels,lubricants, fluids and service partsconforming to specifications.Motorcraft parts are designed andbuilt to provide the bestperformance in your vehicle.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 162


163

Precautions when servicingyour vehicleBe especially careful wheninspecting or servicing yourvehicle. Here are some generalprecautions for your safety:

• Do not work on a hot engine.

The cooling fan is automaticand may come on at any

time. Always disconnect thenegative terminal of the batterybefore working near the fan.

• If you must work with the enginerunning, avoid wearing looseclothing or jewelry that could getcaught in moving parts. Takeprecautions with long hair.

• Do not work on a vehicle with theengine running in an enclosedspace, unless you are sure you haveenough ventilation.

• Keep all lit cigarettes, openflames and other lit material awayfrom the battery and all fuel relatedparts.

If you disconnect the battery, theengine must “relearn” its idleconditions before your vehicle willdrive properly, as explained underBattery in this chapter.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 163


164

Working with engine off(automatic transaxle)1. Set the parking brake fully andensure the gearshift is securelylatched in P (Park).

2. Turn off the engine and removethe key.

3. Block the wheels to prevent thevehicle from moving unexpectedly.

Working with engine off (manual transaxle)1. Set the parking brake, depressthe clutch and place the gearshiftin 1 (first) or R (Reverse).

2. Turn off the engine and removethe key.


31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 164


165

Working with engine on(automatic transaxle)1. Set the parking brake fully andensure the gearshift is securelylatched in P (Park).


Do not start your enginewith the air cleaner removed

and do not remove it while theengine is running.

Working with engine on(manual transaxle)

1. Set the parking brake, depressthe clutch and place the gearshiftin neutral.


31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 165


166

Opening the hood

• Pull the handle (1) located underthe instrument panel.

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90100110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200E F

1

2

0

3

x 1000

4 56

7

8

CHECKENGINE

TRACTIONCONTROL

O/DOFF

MIRRORS

1

TRACTION TROL

C H

• Release the safety catch byreaching under the hood (2)(adjacent to the Ford emblem) andpushing it to the left.

2

3

• Raise the hood and support itwith the strut (3) in the yellowcolored retainer, ensuring it issecure.

To close, replace the support strutin its retaining clip, lower the hoodand allow it to drop into the catchfor the last 20 – 30 cm (8 – 12 inches).

Always check to ensure that thehood lock is fully engaged.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 166


167

For ease of identification, all filler caps and the engine oil dipstick aremarked yellow/black.

2.0 litre EFI-engine compartment

Powersteeringreservoir

Enginecoolant

reservoir

Automatictransaxledipstick

(if equipped)

Brake fluidreservoir

BatteryWindshieldwasher fluid

reservoir

Engine oildipstick

Powerdistribution

box

Aircleaner

Engine oilfiller cap

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 167


168

Powersteeringreservoir

Enginecoolant

reservoir

2.5 litre EFI-engine compartment

For ease of identification, all filler caps and the engine oil dipstick aremarked yellow/black.

Aircleaner

Brake fluidreservoir

Automatictransaxledipstick

(if equipped)

BatteryWindshieldwasher fluid

reservoir

Engine oildipstick

Powerdistribution

box

Engine oilfiller cap

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 168


169

ADD

FULL

Engine oilUse SAE 5W-30 motor oilCERTIFIED FOR GASOLINEENGINES by the AmericanPetroleum Institute.

Do not use supplemental engine oiladditives, oil treatments or enginetreatments. They are unnecessaryand could, under certainconditions, lead to engine damagewhich is not covered by FordWarranty.

Checking the engine oilCheck the engine oil each time youfuel your vehicle.

To check the oil:

1. Make sure the vehicle is on levelground. If the engine is warm, turnthe engine off and wait a fewminutes for the oil to drain into theoil pan.

2. Set the parking brake and ensurethe gearshift is securely latched inP (Park). Put the manual transaxlegearshift in 1 (first) or R (reverse).

3. Open the hood. Protect yourselffrom engine heat.

4. Locate and carefully remove theengine oil dipstick.

5. Wipe the dipstick clean. Insertthe dipstick fully, then remove itagain. The oil level should bebetween the MIN and MAX marks.

2.0 l DOHC

2.5 l DOHC

AM

ERIC

ANPETROLEUM

INSTITUTE

CERTIFIED

FORGASOLINEENGINES

AM

ERIC

ANPETROLEUM

INSTITUTE

CERTIFIED

FORGASOLINEENGINES

Motorcraft

Do not exceed MAX!

Do not exceed MAX!

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 169


170

6. If the oil level is below theminimum line, add engine oil asnecessary. If the oil level is beyondthe maximum line, engine damageor high oil consumption may occurand some oil must be removedfrom the engine by a servicetechnician.

7. Put the dipstick back in andensure it is fully seated.

Continuous contact withused motor oil has caused

cancer in laboratory mice.

Adding engine oil 1. Check the engine oil. Forinstructions, refer to Checking theengine oil in this chapter.

2. If the fluid level is not within thenormal range, add only certifiedengine oil of the preferredviscosity. Add engine oil throughthe oil filler cap. Remove the fillercap and use a funnel to pour oil inthe opening.

3. Recheck the oil level. Makesure the oil level is not abovethe MAX mark on the dipstick.

Change your engine oil and oil filteraccording to the scheduled mileageand time requirements, whicheveroccurs first.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 170


171

Refer to the “ScheduledMaintenance Guide” for additionalinformation.

Always dispose of usedautomotive fluids in a

responsible manner. Follow yourcommunity’s standards fordisposing of these types of fluids.Call your local recycling center tofind out more about recyclingautomotive fluids.

It is recommended you use theappropriate Motorcraft oil filter (oranother brand meeting Fordspecifications) for your engineapplication.

Empty and used oilcontainers must be disposed

of at an authorized waste disposalfacility.

Engine oil filler cap The design of the filler cap variesby engine. To open, turn in thedirection of the arrow and pull. Donot open the cap while the engineis running.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 171


172

Brake/clutch fluid reservoirBrake and clutch fluid systems aresupplied from the same reservoir.

The level of the fluid must liebetween the MIN and MAX markson the side of the reservoir. If thelevel falls below the MIN mark, thebrake fluid level warning light onthe instrument cluster willilluminate. Add only DOT 3, DOT 4or Super DOT 4 brake fluid thatmeets the Ford specification (seethe chapter Capacities andspecifications).

If you use brake fluid that is notDOT 3, DOT 4 or Super DOT 4 youwill cause permanent damage toyour brakes.

MAX

MIN

Brake fluid is toxic.

BRAKE

BRAKE

Do not let the reservoir forthe master cylinder run dry.

This may cause the brakes to fail.

Windshield washer system If necessary, add enough washerfluid to fill the reservoir. Follow theinstructions on the washer fluidlabel.

Alternative design

Do not put engine coolant inthe container for the

windshield washer fluid.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 172


173

Cooling system - engine coolant

MAX

MIN

The importance of enginecoolantEngine coolant provides freezeprotection, boil protection, coolingefficiency and corrosion protectionto the engine and coolingcomponents. In order to obtainthese protections, the enginecoolant must be maintained at theproper concentration and fluidlevel in the coolant reservoir.

Your vehicle was factory-filled witha 50/50 engine coolant and waterconcentration. If the concentrationof coolant falls below 40 % or risesabove 60 %, the engine parts couldbecome damaged or not workproperly. A 50/50 mixture ofcoolant and water provides thefollowing:

• Boiling protection up to 265°F(129°C).

• Freeze protection down to -34°F(-36°C).

• Protection against rust and otherforms of corrosion.

• Enables calibrated gauges tofunction properly.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 173


174

Checking engine coolantThe concentration and level ofengine coolant should be checkedat the mileage intervals listed in the“Scheduled Maintenance Guide“.The coolant concentration shouldbe maintained at 50/50 coolant andwater, which equates to a freezepoint of -34°F (-36°C). Coolantconcentration testing is possiblewith a hydrometer or antifreezetester (such as the RotundaBattery and Antifreeze Tester, 014-R1060). The level of coolant shouldbe maintained at the “cold full“ or“cold fill range“ level in the coolantreservoir. If the level falls below,add coolant per the instructions inthe Adding engine coolantsection.

Adding engine coolant When adding engine coolant, makesure it is a 50/50 mixture of enginecoolant and distilled water. Add themixture to the coolant reservoirwhen the engine is cool until theappropriate fill level is obtained.

Do not put engine coolant inthe windshield washer fluid

container. If sprayed on thewindshield, engine coolant couldmake it difficult to see through thewindshield.

Do not add engine coolantwhen the engine is hot.

Steam and scalding liquidsreleased from a hot cooling systemcan burn you badly. Also, you canbe burned if you spill coolant onhot engine parts.

The coolant system in your vehicleis filled with Ford Premium EngineCoolant E2FZ-19549-AA(Motorcraft CXC-8-B in Canada) orequivalent meeting Fordspecification ESE-M97B44-A.

To maintain the integrity of thecoolant and the cooling systemand maintain the warranty onthe cooling system:

• Add the type of coolantoriginally equipped in yourvehicle. If you are unsure whichtype of coolant your vehiclerequires, contact your local dealer.

• Do not mix the factory-filledcoolant with an orange-coloredEXTENDED LIFE COOLANTsuch as F6AZ-19544-A, meetingWSS-M97B44-D. Mixing of FordPremium Engine Coolant with anextended life product can result indegraded corrosion protection.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 174


175

• A large amount of water withoutengine coolant may be added, incase of emergency, to reach avehicle service location. In thisinstance, the cooling system mustbe drained and refilled with a 50/50mixture of engine coolant anddistilled water as soon as possible.Water alone (without enginecoolant) can cause engine damagefrom corrosion, overheating orfreezing.

• Do not use alcohol ormethanol or any enginecoolants mixed with alcohol ormethanol antifreeze (coolant).Alcohol and other liquids can causeengine damage from overheating orfreezing.

• Do not add extra inhibitorsor additives to the coolant.These can be harmful andcompromise the corrosionprotection of the engine coolant.

• Do not mix with recycledcoolant unless the bottle labelstates compliance with Fordspecification ESE-M97B44-A.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 175


176

1. Before you begin, turn theengine off and let it cool.

2. When the engine is cool, wrap athick cloth around the coolantpressure relief cap on the coolantreservoir (an opaque plasticbottle). Slowly turn the capcounterclockwise (left) until thepressure begins to release.

3. Step back while the pressurereleases (you may hear a hissingsound).

4. When you are sure that all thepressure has been released fromthe cooling system, use the cloth toturn the cap counterclockwise andremove it.

5. Fill the coolant reservoir slowlywith the proper coolant mixture(see above) to within the “cold full“or the “cold fill range“ level on thereservoir.

6. Replace the cap. Turn untiltightly installed. (Cap must betightly installed to prevent coolantloss.)

To avoid personal injury,make sure the engine is cool

before unscrewing the coolantpressure relief cap. The coolingsystem is under pressure; steamand hot liquid can come outforcefully when the cap isloosened slightly. M

AX

MIN

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 176


177

After any coolant has been added,check the coolant concentration(see Checking engine coolantsection). If the concentration is not50/50 (protection to -34°F /-36°C),drain some coolant and adjust theconcentration. It may take severaldrains and additions to obtain a50/50 coolant concentration.

Whenever coolant has been added,the coolant level in the coolantreservoir should be checked thenext few times you drive thevehicle. If necessary, add enough50/50 concentration of enginecoolant and distilled water to bringthe liquid level to the proper level.

If you have to add more than1.0 liter (1.0 quart) of enginecoolant per month, have yourdealer check the engine coolingsystem. Your cooling system mayhave a leak. Operating an enginewith a low level of coolant canresult in engine overheating andpossible engine damage.

Changing engine coolantChange your engine coolantaccording to the appropriateschedule listed in the “ScheduledMaintenance Guide“. It is importantthat the engine coolant be changedat the specified intervals. Thecorrosion protection of enginecoolant is depleted with time andusage. Use of engine coolant withdepleted corrosion protection mayresult in damage to the coolantsystem. Color, specific gravity andfreeze point of the coolant are not

indicators of depletion.

To find out how much fluid yourvehicle’s cooling system can hold,refer to the Refill capacities in theCapacities and Specificationschapter. Fill your coolant reservoirfollowing the directions given inthe Adding engine coolantsection.

Coolant usage in severe winterclimate

If you drive in extremely coldclimates less than -34°F (-36°C), itmay be necessary to increase thecoolant concentration above 50 %.Refer to the chart on the coolantcontainer to ensure the coolantconcentration in your vehicle willprovide adequate freeze protection.Never increase the enginecoolant concentration above60 % (protection to -60°F). At alevel over 60 %, your engine couldoverheat and become damaged.

Coolant usage in hot climateIf you drive in hot climates, it is stillnecessary to maintain the coolantconcentration at 50/50 coolant andwater. Do not allow theconcentration to fall below40 % coolant. At a concentrationless than 40 %, the corrosionprotection to your engine andcooling components may becompromised and permanentdamage may result.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 177

Disposal of used engine coolant

Used engine coolant should bedisposed of in an appropriatemanner. Follow your community’sregulations and standards forrecycling and/or disposal ofautomotive fluids.

Checking and adding powersteering fluidSwitch off the engine. With thesteering system at normaloperating temperature, the fluidlevel should come up to the MAXmark.

If the fluid level drops below theMIN mark, add the specified fluid.Refer to the Capacities andspecifications chapter.

Use of recycled engine coolantFord Motor Company recommendsthe use of recycled engine coolantproduced by Ford-approvedprocesses. However, not all coolantrecycling processes producecoolant that meets Fordspecification ESE-M97B44A. Use ofsuch coolant may harm the engineand coolant system components.


178

MAX

MIN

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 178


179

Checking and adding automatictransaxle fluidFollow the scheduled serviceintervals outlined in the“Scheduled Maintenance Guide“.

Your transaxle does not consumefluid. However, it is recommendedthat you refer to your “ScheduledMaintenance Guide“ for scheduledintervals for fluid checks andchanges. The fluid level should bechecked or changed by a qualifiedtechnician at the appropriateintervals or if the transaxle is notworking properly, i.e., if thetransaxle slips or shifts slowly or ifyou notice some sign of fluidleakage.

Note: Automatic transaxle fluidexpands when warmed. To obtainan accurate fluid level check drivethe vehicle until warmed,approximately 30 km (20 miles). Ifyour vehicle has been operated foran extended period at high speeds,in city traffic during hot weather orpulling a trailer, the vehicle shouldbe turned off for about 30 minutesto allow fluid to cool beforechecking.

1. Drive the vehicle 30 km (20miles) or until the vehicle reachesnormal operating temperatures.

2. Park the vehicle on a levelsurface and engage the parkingbrake.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 179


180

3. With the parking brake engagedand your foot on the brake pedal,start the engine and move thegearshift lever through all of thegear ranges. Allow sufficient timefor each gear to engage.

4. Latch the gearshift lever in P(Park) and leave the enginerunning.

5. Remove the dipstick, wiping itwith a clean, dry lint free rag.

6. Install the dipstick making sureit is fully seated in the filler tube.

7. Remove the dipstick and inspectthe fluid level. The fluid levelshould be in the designated areasfor normal and room temperature.

Low fluid levelDo not drive the vehicle if the fluidlevel is below the hole at thebottom of the dipstick.

Correct fluid levelThe transaxle fluid level should bechecked at normal operatingtemperatures 66°C - 77°C (150°F -170°F) on a level surface. Thenormal operating temperature canbe reached after approximately 30 km (20 miles) of driving.

The transaxle fluid should be inthis range if at normal operatingtemperature of 66°C - 77°C(150°F - 170°F).

Normal operating temperature66°C - 77°C (150°F - 170°F)

Do not drive if below this area

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 180


181

Adjusting automatic transaxlefluid levelsBefore adding any fluid, make surethe correct type is used. The typeof fluid used is normally indicatedon the dipstick and/or dipstickhandle and also in the Lubricantspecifications section in theCapacities and Specificationschapter.

Use of a non approvedautomatic transaxle fluid maycause internal transaxlecomponent damage.

If necessary, add fluid in 250 ml(1/2 pint) increments through thefiller tube until the level is correct.

If an overfill occurs, excess fluidshould be removed by a qualifiedtechnician.

An overfill condition oftransaxle fluid may cause shiftand/or engagement concernsand/or possible damage.

High fluid levelFluid levels above the safe rangemay result in transaxle failure. Anoverfill condition of transaxle fluidmay cause shift and/or possibledamage. High fluid levels can becaused by an overheatingcondition, see note.

Do not add if above thecrosshatched area

Do not add if above thecrosshatched area

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 181


182

BatteryYour vehicle may be equipped witha Motorcraft maintenance-freebattery. The Motorcraftmaintenance-free battery normallydoes not require additional waterduring its life of service. However,for severe service usage or in hightemperature climates, refer to the“Scheduled Maintenance Guide” foradditional information. Keep theelectrolyte in each cell up to the“level” indicator. Do not overfill thebattery cell.

For longer, trouble-free operation,keep the top of the battery cleanand dry. Also, make certain thebattery cables are always tightlyfastened to the battery terminals.

If you see any corrosion on thebattery cables or terminals, removethe cables from the terminal(s) andclean with a wire brush. You canneutralize the acid with a solutionof baking soda and water. Reinstallthe cables when you are donecleaning them, and apply a smallquantity of grease to the top ofeach battery terminal to helpprevent corrosion.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 182


183

Battery replacementIf your original equipment batteryrequires replacement while underwarranty, it will be replaced with aMotorcraft service battery,identical in design technology. Likethe original equipment battery, itshould not require water additionduring its normal life of service;however, for severe service usageor in high temperature climates,refer to the “ScheduledMaintenance Guide” for moreinformation. Do not overfill thebattery cell.

If the electrolyte level in yourbattery gets low, you can add plaintap water to the battery, as long asyou do not use hard water (waterwith a high mineral or alkalicontent). If possible, however, tryto only fill the battery cell withdistilled water. If the battery needswater often, have the chargingsystem checked.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 183


184

Batteries normally produceexplosive gases which can

cause personal injury. Do not allowflames, sparks or lit tobacco tocome near the battery. Alwayscover your face and protect youreyes and also provide ventilation.

Applying too much pressureon the ends when lifting a

battery could cause acid to spill.Lift the battery with a carrier orwith your hands on the oppositecorners.

Follow these steps tominimize risk of personal

injury.

Always dispose of automotivebatteries in a responsible

manner. Follow your community’slocal standards for disposal. Callyour local recycling center to findout more about recyclingautomotive batteries.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 184


185

Relearning the idle functionBecause your vehicle’s engine iselectronically controlled, somecontrol conditions are maintainedby power from the battery. Whenthe battery is disconnected or anew battery is installed, thecomputer must “relearn” its idleconditions before your vehicle candrive properly. To begin thisprocess:

1. Put the automatic transaxlegearshift in P (Park). Put themanual transaxle gearshift inneutral.

2. Turn off all accessories and startthe vehicle.

3. Let the engine idle for at leastone minute.

4. The “relearning” process willautomatically complete as youdrive the vehicle.

• If you do not allow the engine to“relearn” its idle, the idle quality ofyour vehicle may be adverselyaffected until the idle is eventually“relearned”.

• If the battery has beendisconnected or if a new batteryhas been installed, the clock andpreset radio stations must be resetonce the battery is reconnected.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 185


186

Checking wiper bladesCheck the wiper blades on yourvehicle for roughness by runningthe tips of your fingers over theedge of the blade.

Traces of grease, silicone and fuelprevent wiper blades fromfunctioning properly. Werecommend Ford cleaningsolutions or equivalent to cleanwiper blades.

Change the wiper blades on yourvehicle at least once a year.

Cabin air filter replacementIn your climate control system, youhave a filter that cleans the airbefore it enters the interior of thevehicle. This filter should bereplaced at the intervals in the“Scheduled Maintenance Guide“.

To replace the cabin air filter:

1. Unscrew the nut in the base ofeach windshield wiper arm.Remove the windshield wiper arms.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 186


187

2. Remove the plastic caps fromthe screws on the grille. Removethe screws.

3. Open the hood. Pull off therubber weatherstrip at the back ofthe engine compartment. Removethe screws that hold the grille,separate the two halves andremove the grille.

4. The filter is in a housing at theback of the engine compartment,on the passenger side. Pull off thetwo clips on the sides of thehousing. Slide out the top part ofthe housing and filter.

5. Slide the filter out of thehousing, replace with the new filterand slide the top part of thehousing and cabin air filter backinto place. Reinstall the clips on thehousing.

6. Replace the grille and wiperarms.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 187


188

New vehicles are fitted with tiresthat have their Tire Quality Grade(described below) molded into thetire’s sidewall. These Tire QualityGrades are determined bystandards that the United StatesDepartment of Transportation hasset.Tire Quality Grades apply to newpneumatic tires for use onpassenger cars. They do not applyto deep tread, winter-type snowtires, space-saver or temporary usespare tires, tires with nominal rimdiameters of 10 to 12 inches orlimited production tires as definedin Title 49 Code of FederalRegulation Part 575.104(c)(2).

U.S. Department ofTransportation – Tire qualitygrades: The U.S. Department ofTransportation requires Ford togive you the following informationabout tire grades exactly as thegovernment has written it.

INFORMATION ABOUT TIREQUALITY GRADES

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 188


189

TreadwearThe treadwear grade is acomparative rating based on thewear rate of the tire when testedunder controlled conditions on aspecified government test course.For example, a tire graded 150would wear one and one-half(1 1/2) times as well on thegovernment course as a tire graded100. The relative performance oftires depends upon the actualconditions of their use, however,and may depart significantly fromthe norm due to variations indriving habits, service practices,and differences in roadcharacteristics and climate.

Traction AA A B CThe traction grades, from highestto lowest are AA, A, B, and C.Those grades represent the tire’sability to stop on wet pavement asmeasured under controlledconditions on specified governmenttest surfaces of asphalt andconcrete. A tire marked C mayhave poor traction performance.

The traction grade assignedto this tire is based on

straight-ahead braking tractiontests, and does not includeacceleration, cornering,hydroplaning, or peak tractioncharacteristics.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 189


190

Temperature A B CThe temperature grades are A (thehighest), B, and C, representingthe tire’s resistance to thegeneration of heat and its ability todissipate heat when tested undercontrolled conditions on a specifiedindoor laboratory test wheel.Sustained high temperature cancause the material of the tire todegenerate and reduce tire life, andexcessive temperature can lead tosudden tire failure. The grade Ccorresponds to a level ofperformance which all passengercar tires must meet under theFederal Motor Vehicle SafetyStandard No. 109. Grades B and Arepresent higher levels ofperformance on the laboratory testwheel than the minimum requiredby law.

The temperature grade forthis tire is established for a

tire that is properly inflated andnot overloaded. Excessive speed,underinflation, or excessiveloading, either separately or incombination, can cause heatbuildup and possible tire failure.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 190


191

Checking tire pressureCheck the tire pressureperiodically after the vehicle hasbeen parked for at least one houror has been driven less than 5 km(3 miles). Inflate the tires asnecessary. To check the tirepressure, insert the tire pressuregauge into the valve.

The cold pressure amount is listedon the Safety ComplianceCertification label.

Improperly inflated tires canaffect vehicle handling and

can fail suddenly, possiblyresulting in loss of vehicle control.

Rotating tiresRotate your tires at regularintervals for even wear. Rotationintervals are listed in the“Scheduled Maintenance Guide”.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 191


192

Failure to follow theseprecautions may adversely

affect the handling of the vehicleand make it easier to lose controland roll over.

Replacing tires

Replace tires when the wear bandis visible through the tire treads.

When replacing full sizetires, never mix radial, bias-

belted, or bias-type tires. Use onlythe tire sizes that are listed on thetire pressure decal. Make sure thatall tires are the same size, speedrating, and load-carrying capacity.Use only the tire combinationsrecommended on the decal. If youdo not follow these precautions,your vehicle may not driveproperly and safely.

Do not replace your tireswith “high performance”

tires or larger size tires.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 192


193

Dispose of worn tires inaccordance with local

environmental regulations.

Refer to the Safety ComplianceCertification label to determine thespecific size tire and wheel FordMotor Company recommends foruse on this vehicle.

When purchasing replacement tiresfor your vehicle, consult yourdealer or a qualified servicetechnician to ensure that thecorrect tire type is used.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 193


194

The tires on your vehicle have all-weather treads to provide tractionin rain and snow. However, in someclimates, using snow tires andchains may be necessary. Fordoffers snow chains as a Fordapproved accessory andrecommends use of these or theirequivalents on approved tires. Seeyour dealer or a qualified servicetechnician for more information ontire chains for your vehicle. Followthese guidelines when using snowtires and chains:

• Install chains securely, verifyingthat the chains do not touch anywiring, brake lines or fuel lines.

• Install the chains on the fronttires only.

• Do not use tire chains on 205/60tires and 205/55R16 Z rated tires.Steering, suspension and bodycomponents may be damaged byuse of chains.

Snow tires must be the samesize and grade as the tires

you currently have on yourvehicle.

Using snow tires and chains

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 194


195

Change over from winter tosummer tires as soon as road

conditions allow, this will reducefuel consumption and noise in thevehicle’s interior.

• Drive cautiously. If you hear thechains rub or bang against thevehicle, stop and retighten them. Ifthis does not work, remove thechains to prevent vehicle damage.

• Local regulations may prohibit orrestrict the use of tire chains.Investigate the laws andregulations in your area beforeinstalling chains.

• Avoid overloading your vehicle.

• Do not use tire chains ontemporary spare tires.

• Remove the tire chains whenthey are no longer needed. Do notuse chains on dry roads.

• The suspension insulation andbumpers will help prevent vehicledamage. Do not remove thesecomponents from the vehicle whenusing snow tires and chains.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 195


196

Automotive fuels can causeserious injury or death if

misused or mishandled.

IMPORTANT FUELINFORMATON

Important safety precautions

Do not overfill the fuel tank.The pressure in an overfilled

tank may cause leakage and leadto fuel spray and fire.

If you do not use the properfuel cap, the pressure in the

fuel tank can damage the fuelsystem or cause it to workimproperly in a collision.

The fuel system may beunder pressure. If the fuel

cap is venting vapor or if you heara hissing sound, wait until it stopsbefore completely removing thecap.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 196


197

Observe the following guidelineswhen handling automotive fuel:

• Extinguish all smoking materialsand any open flames before fuelingyour vehicle.

• Always turn off the vehicle beforefueling.

• Make sure the fuel cap iscorrectly fitted after fueling. Failureto do so may cause the on boarddiagnostic system to illuminate thecheck engine light.

• Automotive fuels can be harmfulor fatal if swallowed. If fuel isswallowed, call a physicianimmediately, even if no symptomsare immediately apparent. Thetoxic effects of fuel may not bevisible for hours.

• Fuels can also be harmful ifabsorbed through the skin. If fuel issplashed on the skin, promptlyremove contaminated clothing andwash skin thoroughly with soap andwater.

• If fuel is splashed in the eyes,remove contact lenses (if worn),flush with water for 15 minutes andseek medical attention.

• Be particularly careful if you aretaking “Antabuse” or other forms ofdisulfiram for the treatment ofalcoholism. Breathing gasolinevapors or skin contact could causean adverse reaction. Consult aphysician immediately.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 197


198

Choosing the right fuelUse only UNLEADED FUEL. Theuse of leaded fuel is prohibited bylaw and could damage your vehicle.The damage may not be covered byyour warranty.

Your vehicle was not designed touse fuel containing manganese-based additives such as MMT.Additionally, vehicles certified toCalifornia emission standards(indicated on the underhoodVehicle Emission ControlInformation label) are designed tooperate on California reformulatedgasolines. If California reformulatedgasoline is not available when yourefuel, your vehicle can beoperated on non-California fuels.However, even though your enginewill perform adequately on othergasolines, the performance of theemission control devices andsystems may be adversely affected.Repair of damage caused by a fuelthat your vehicle was not designedfor may not be covered by yourwarranty.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 198


199

Octane recommendationsYour vehicle is designed to useregular gasoline with an (R+M)/2octane rating of 87. We do notrecommend gasolines labeled as“regular” in high altitude areas thatare sold with octane ratings of 86or even less.

Do not be concerned if your vehiclesometimes knocks lightly. However,if it knocks heavily under mostdriving conditions on therecommended octane, see yourdealer or a qualified servicetechnician to prevent any enginedamage.

87MINIMUM OCTANE RATING

(R+M)/2 Method

Fuel qualityIf you are experiencing starting,rough idle or hesitation problemstry a different brand of fuel. If thecondition persists, see your dealeror qualified service technician.

The American AutomobileManufacturers Association(AAMA) issued a gasolinespecification to provide informationon high quality fuels that optimizethe performance of your vehicle.We recommend the use of gasolinesthat meet the AAMA specificationif they are available.

It should not be necessary to addany aftermarket products to yourfuel tank if you continue to use ahigh-quality fuel.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 199


200

The fuel system may beunder pressure. If the fuel

filler cap is venting vapor or if youhear a hissing sound, wait until itstops before completely removingthe fuel filler cap. Otherwise fuelmay spray out and injure you orothers.

Fuel filler capIf the check engine indicatorcomes on and stays on when youstart the engine, the fuel filler capmay not be properly installed. Turnoff the engine, remove the fuelfiller cap and reinstall it beingcareful to align the cap properly.

If you must replace the fuelfiller cap, replace it with anauthorized Motorcraft part.The customer warranty may bevoid for any damage to the fueltank or fuel system if anauthorized Motorcraft fuelfiller cap is not used.

Cleaner airFord approves the use of gasolinesto improve air quality, includingreformulated gasolines that containoxygenates such as a maximum of10% ethanol or 15% MTBE. Thereshould be no more than 5%methanol with cosolvents andadditives to protect the fuelsystem.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 200


201

Calculating fuel economyTo accurately calculate yourvehicle’s fuel economy:

1. Fill the tank completely andrecord the initial odometer reading.

2. Each time you fill the tank,record the amount of fuel added(in litres or gallons).

3. After at least three to five fill-ups, fill the fuel tank and recordthe current mileage reading.

4. Use one of the followingequations to calculate fueleconomy.

Litres used x 100 / Total kilometrestraveled.

Total miles traveled / Total gallonsused.

Keep a record for at least onemonth. This will provide anaccurate estimate of the vehicle’sfuel economy.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 201


202

EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMYour vehicle is equipped withvarious emission controlcomponents and a catalyticconverter which will enable yourvehicle to comply with applicableexhaust emission standards. Tomake sure that the catalyticconverter and other emissioncontrol components continue towork properly:

• Use unleaded fuel only.

• Avoid running out of fuel.

• Do not turn off the ignition whileyour vehicle is moving, especiallyat high speeds.

• Have the items listed in your“Scheduled Maintenance Guide”performed according to thespecified schedule.

The scheduled maintenanceservices listed in the “ScheduledMaintenance Guide“ are requiredbecause they are consideredessential to the life andperformance of your vehicle and toits emissions system.

If other than Ford, Motorcraft, orFord authorized parts are used formaintenance replacements or forservice of components affectingemissions control, such non-Fordparts should be equivalent togenuine Ford Motor Company partsin performance and durability.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 202


203

BRAKE

O/DOFF

TRACTIONCONTROL

Alternative design

Alternative design

Watch for fluid leaks, strangeodors, smoke, loss of oil pressure,engine overheating, illumination ofthe charging system warning lightor the check engine warning light.These events could indicate thatthe emission control system is notworking properly.

Exhaust leaks may result inentry of harmful and

potentially lethal fumes into thepassenger compartment.

Do not park, idle or driveyour vehicle in dry grass or

other dry ground cover. Theemission system heats up theengine compartment and exhaustsystem, which can start a fire.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 203


204

Do not make any unauthorizedchanges to your vehicle or engine.By law, vehicle owners and anyonewho manufactures, repairs,services, sells, leases, tradesvehicles, or supervises a fleet ofvehicles are not permitted tointentionally remove an emissioncontrol device or prevent it fromworking. Information about yourvehicle's emission system is on theVehicle Emission ControlInformation Decal located underthe hood. This decal identifiesengine displacement and givessome tune up specifications.

Please consult your “WarrantyGuide“ for complete emissionwarranty information.

Readiness forinspection/maintenance (I/M)testingIn some localities, it may be a legalrequirement to pass an I/M test ofthe on-board diagnostic (OBD-II)system. If your check engine lightis on, refer to the description in theInstrument Cluster Lights andChimes section of theInstrumentation chapter. Yourvehicle may not pass the I/M testwith the check engine light on.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 204


205

If the vehicle’s powertrain systemor its battery has just beenserviced, the OBD-II system isreset to a “not ready for I/M test“condition. To ready the OBD-IIsystem for I/M testing, a minimumof 30 minutes of city and highwaydriving is necessary as describedbelow:

• First, at least 10 minutes ofdriving on an expressway orhighway.

• Next, at least 20 minutes ofdriving in stop and go, city-typetraffic with at least four idleperiods.

Allow the vehicle to sit for at leasteight hours without starting theengine. Then, start the engine andcomplete the above driving cycle.The engine must warm up to itsnormal operating temperature.Once started, do not turn off theengine until the above driving cycleis complete.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 205


206

The bulbs for the low beam, highbeam, turn signals and side lampsare housed in the lamp assembly.To replace a bulb, the completelamp assembly has to be removedas follows:

1. Switch off the lamps.

2. Open the hood.

3. Remove the lower screw (2)from the headlamp housing.

4. Remove the two upper screws(1) from the headlamp housing.

5. Gently pull the headlamphousing outward.

6. Replace the headlamp bulbs.

BULB REPLACEMENT

Handle a halogen headlampbulb carefully and keep out

of children’s reach.Grasp the bulbonly by its plastic base and do nottouch the glass. The oil from yourhand could cause the bulb tobreak the next time theheadlamps are operated.

1

1

2

Removing the headlampsassembly

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 206


207

Reinstalling the headlampassemblyThe gasket lining must be seatedproperly around the lamp assemblywhen reinstalling.

All bulb connectors must becorrectly connected.

Install in the reverse order.

Headlamps – low beamDisconnect the electrical connectorand replace the bulb.

Do not touch the glass part of thebulb and pay attention to the tabguides when replacing.

Headlamp alignmentCheck the headlamp alignmentafter each replacement of a bulb.Refer to Aiming the headlamps.

Headlamps – high beamReplacement instructions are thesame as for the low beamheadlamp.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 207


208

Foglamps (if equipped)1. Turn the bulb counterclockwiseand pull it out of the light assembly.

2. Remove the electrical connector.

3. Fit the new bulb in reverse order(do not touch the glass part of thebulb).

Front turn signal/side lampsPull the socket out. Pull the bulbout and replace it.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 208


209

License plate lampPry out the light assembly with aflat-bladed screwdriver. Removethe bulb from the clip holder.

Replace with the new bulb inreverse sequence.

Brake/turn signal/tail lamps1. Disconnect the electricalconnector.

2. Turn the socketcounterclockwise and pull it out.

3. Turn the bulb counterclockwiseand pull it out.

4. To install, fit the new bulb inreverse order.

Backup lampsThe backup lamps are located inthe trunk lid. Replacementinstructions are the same as for thebrake/turn signal/tail lamps.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 209


210

High-mounted brake lampEnter the rear seat compartment.1. Remove the high-mounted stoplamp assembly.

2. Remove the red bulb cover.

3. Remove inoperative stop lampbulb.

To install, fit the new bulb inreverse sequence.

On vehicles equipped with a rearspoiler, the high-mounted brakelamp is included in the spoiler.

See your dealer for repair.

Luggage compartment lamp Pry out the light assembly from theholder with a flat screwdriver. Turnthe spherical bulb under slightpressure counterclockwise andremove.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 210


211

Interior lamps (sunroof equipped vehicles)Open the lamp assembly.

The bulbs can be replaced after thecontact plate has been hingedback.

Interior lamps with readinglamps (if equipped)Remove the clip located on lens toaccess the center bulb.

To replace the reading lamp bulbs,remove the two retaining screws toaccess the back of the lamp. Then,unclip the bulb covers and replacethe bulb.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:16 Uhr Seite 211


212

Function Trade number

3457 NA

9005

9006

893

1157

1156

Front /turn lamp

Headlamp (high)

Headlamp (low)

Foglamp/License plate lamp

Rear tail/turn/brake lamp

Backup lamp

Bulb specifications

2723

C5W

High-mounted brake lamp

Interior lamp 211-2

License plate lamp

Reading lamp 578

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:16 Uhr Seite 212


213

Aiming the headlampsYour vehicle is equipped with aVehicle Headlamp Aim Device(VHAD) on each headlamp body.Each headlamp may be properlyaimed in the horizontal direction(left/right) and the verticaldirection (up/down).

A non-zero bubble reading (verticalindicator) does not necessarilyindicate out-of-aim headlamps. Ifyour vehicle is not positioned on alevel surface, the slope will beincluded in the vertical indication.Therefore, vertical and horizontalheadlamp adjustment should beperformed only when beamdirection appears to be incorrect.

AIMING THE HEADLAMPSThe alignment of your headlampsshould be checked if:

• Oncoming motorists frequentlysignal you to deactivate your highbeams, and your high beams arenot activated.

• The headlamps do not seem toprovide enough light for clear nightvision.

• The headlamp beams are pointedsubstantially away from a slightlydown and to the right position.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:16 Uhr Seite 213


214

Adjusting the horizontal aim1. Make sure the vehicle is on alevel surface.

2.With the hood open, locate thehorizontal indicator and adjustingscrew through the viewing hole onthe outboard side of the headlamp.

3. Turn the horizontal adjustingscrew until the “0” reference markon the horizontal indicator alignswith the arrow pointer on theadjusting screw assembly.

You will need one 7 mm boxwrench, open end wrench or T-15Torx drive.

If the vehicle has been in anaccident, the vehicle’s frontstructure should be properlyaligned before aiming theheadlamps.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:16 Uhr Seite 214


215

Adjusting the vertical aimThe numbers shown on the vialindicate beam direction in degreesup or down.

1. Make sure the vehicle is on levelground.

2. With the hood open, locate thebubble level vertical aim indicator,and adjusting screw. It is visiblewhen viewed from above the rearof the headlamp.

3. Turn the vertical adjusting screwuntil the bubble is centered overthe “O” reference mark on thevertical indicatior.

4. When the horizontal and verticalindicators are set on “O”, theheadlamp is properly aimed.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:16 Uhr Seite 215


216

Washing your vehicle

Only use car washing areasthat have environmentally

friendly drainage systems.

VEHICLE CARE

Wash your vehicle regularly withcold or lukewarm water. Never usestrong detergents or soap. If yourvehicle is particularly dirty, use aquality car wash detergent. Alwaysuse a clean sponge, washing gloveor similar device and plenty ofwater for best results. To avoidspots, avoid washing when thehood is still warm, immediatelyafter or during exposure to strongsunlight.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:16 Uhr Seite 216


217

Waxing your vehicleThe best way to determine whenthe paintwork needs waxing is bynoting when water stops beadingon the surface. This could be everythree or four months depending onoperating conditions.

Use only carnauba or synthetic-based waxes. Remove any bugs andtar before waxing the vehicle. Usecleaning fluid or alcohol with aclean cloth to remove bugs. Use tarremover to remove any tar spots.

During winter months, it isespecially important to wash thevehicle on a regular basis. Largequantities of dirt and road salt aredifficult to remove, and they alsocause damage to the vehicle.Remove or lower any exterioraccessories, such as antennas,before entering a car wash.

Remove particles such as birddroppings, tree sap, insect remains,tar spots, road salt and industrialfallout immediately.

After washing, apply the brakesseveral times to dry them.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:16 Uhr Seite 217


218

Repairing paint chipsMinor scratches or paint damagefrom road debris may be repairedwith the Ultra Touch Prep andFinishing Kit (# F7AZ-19K507-BA).Lacquer Touch-up Paint (# ALBZ-19500-XXXXA) or Exterior AcrylicSpray Lacquer (# ALAZ-19500-XXXXA) from the Ford Car CareChemicals line. Please not that thepart numbers (shown as XXXXabove) will vary with your vehicle’sspecific coloring. Observe theapplication instructions on theproducts.

Cleaning the wheelsWash the wheels with the samedetergent you use to clean thebody of your vehicle. Do not useacid-based wheel cleaners, steelwool, fuel or strong detergents.Never use abrasives that willdamage the finish of special wheelsurfaces. Use a tar remover toremove grease and tar.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:16 Uhr Seite 218


219

Cleaning the engineEngines are more efficient whenthey are clean because grease anddirt buildup act as insulators andkeep the engine warmer thannormal. Follow these guidelines toclean your engine:

• Take care when using a powerwasher to clean the engine. Thehigh pressure fluid could penetratethe sealed parts and cause damage.

• Do not spray with cold water, toavoid cracking the engine block.

• Cover the alternator to preventwater damage when cleaning theengine.

• Never wash or rinse the enginewhile it is running; water in therunning engine may cause internaldamage.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:16 Uhr Seite 219


220

Cleaning plastic exterior partsUse a vinyl cleaner for routinecleaning of plastic. Clean with a tarremover if necessary. Do not cleanplastic parts with thinners, solventsor petroleum-based cleaners.

Cleaning the exterior lampsWash the exterior lamps with thesame detergent you use to washthe exterior of your vehicle. Useglass cleaner or tar remover ifnecessary.

To avoid scratching the lamps, donot use a dry paper towel, chemicalsolvents or abrasive cleaners toclean the lamps.

Cleaning the wiper bladesIf the wiper blades do not wipeproperly, clean both the windshieldand wiper blades using undilutedwindshield wiper solution or a milddetergent. Rinse thoroughly withclean water. To avoid damaging theblades, do not use fuel, kerosene,paint thinner or other solvents.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:16 Uhr Seite 220


221

Cleaning the interior fabricRemove dust and loose dirt with awhisk broom or a vacuum cleaner.Remove fresh spots immediately.Follow the directions that comewith the cleaner.

Cleaning leather seats (if equipped)For routine cleaning, wipe thesurface with a soft, damp cloth. Formore thorough cleaning, wipe thesurface with a leather and vinylcleaner or a mild soap.

Ford recommends using theDeluxe Leather Care Kit F8AZ-196253-AA, which isavailable from your Ford dealer.This mild cleaner and special padcleans the leather and maintains itsnatural beauty. Follow theinstructions on the cleaner label.Regular cleaning of your leatherupholstery helps maintain itsresiliency and color.

Cleaning the instrument panel

OFFLO PNL/FLRPANEL

A/C

FLOOR

DEF

FLR DEF

MAXA/C

HI/


SEEK

31 2

4 5

ANS

SIDE 1-2

EJECT

VOLUME

0 0 0 12 3

0 0 0 0

10203040

5060 70 80

90100110

120130

MPH

20

40

60

55

80120100

140

160

180

200E F

1

2

0

3

x 1000

4 56

7

8

CHECKENGINE

TRACTIONCONTROL

O/DOFF

MIRRORS

CLOCK

HC

Clean the instrument panel with adamp cloth, then dry with a drycloth.

Any cleaner or polish thatincreases the gloss of the upperportion of the instrument panelshould be avoided. The dull finishin this area is to help protect thedriver from undesirable windshieldreflection.

31CMCen 17.6.99 11:16 Uhr Seite 221


222

Cleaning and maintaining thesafety beltsClean the safety belts with a mildsoap solution recommended forcleaning upholstery or carpets andwarm water. Do not bleach or dyethe belts, because these actionsmay weaken the belt webbing.

Check the safety belt systemperiodically to make sure there areno nicks, wear or cuts.

Cleaning and caring for yourvehicleRefer to the Customer assistancechapter for a list of Ford-approvedcleaners, polishes and waxes.

Ford recommends that allsafety belt assemblies and

attaching hardware should beinspected by a qualified technicianafter any collision. Safety beltassemblies not in use during acollision should also be inspectedand replaced if either damage orimproper operation is noted.

32CCSen 17.6.99 11:31 Uhr Seite 222

223

Capacities and specifications

* Refer to Vehicle Emission Control Information (VECI) decal for spark plug and gap specifications.** If a spark plug is removed for examination, it must be reinstalled in the same cylinder.

If a spark plug needs to be replaced, use only spark plugs with the service part number suffix letter “FE” as shown on the engine decal.

Motorcraft parts

Component

Spark plug*

Air filter

Passenger compartmentair filter

Fuel filter

Oil filter

Battery

PCV valve

Crankcase ventilation filter

2.0 litre engine

AZFS-22F # 1+2**AZFS-22FE# 3+4

FA-1612

FP4

FG-800A

FL-2005

BXT-40R

EV-224

FA-1621

2.5 litre engine

AWSF-32F

FA-1613

FP4

FG-800A

FL-820

BXT-40R

EV-152

—

Part number

32CCSen 17.6.99 11:31 Uhr Seite 223


224

* Total capacity

** with automatic transaxle

Engine oil- with filter- without

Manual transaxle 1.9 l (2.0 qts)

Automatic transaxlewith oil cooler

Power steering

Cooling system with heating

Windshield washer fluid

Fuel tank

Braking system

4.25 l (4.5 qts)3.75 l (4.0 qts)

8.5 l (9.0 qts.)

6.6 l (7.0 qts)*7.1 l (7.5 qts)**

Fill to MAX mark

Fill to top of reservoir

58.5 l (15.4 gallons)

Fill to MAX mark

5.5 l (5.8 qts)5.0 l (5.3 qts)

9.6 l (10.2 qts)

9.5 l (10.0 qts)*9.7 l (10.2 qts)**

Capacities 2.0 litreengine

2.5 litreengine

32CCSen 17.6.99 11:31 Uhr Seite 224

Item Ford part nameor equivalent

High PerformanceDOT 3 MotorVehicle BrakeFluid, (North

America)DOT 4 Brake

Fluid or SuperDOT 4 (Europe)

Premium enginecoolant

Super PremiumSAE 5W-30 Motor

Oil

MotorcraftMERCON® ATF

Motorcraft*MERCON® ATF

Ultra-ClearWindshield Washer

Concentrate

Fordpart number

C6AZ-19542-ABfor DOT 3

E2FZ-19549-AACXC-8-B (Canada)

F5FZ-19549-CC(Oregon)

XO-5W30-QSP

XT-2-QDX

XT-2-QDX

C9AZ-19550-ACor

C9AZ-19550-BC

Fordspecification

ESA-M6C25-A(DOT 3) (North

AmericaESD-M6C57-A(Super DOT 4)

(Europe)

ESE-M97B44-A

API CertificationMark and

WSS-M2C153-G

MERCON®

MERCON®

ESR-M17P5-A

Brake fluid

Engine coolant

Engine oil

Power steeringfluid

Transaxle fluidautomatic/ 5-speed manual

Windshield washer fluid

* Use only MERCON® approved transmission/transaxle fluid. Use of any fluid approved and/or labeled

for MERCON® V may cause internal transaxle damage.


225

Lubricant Specifications

32CCSen 17.6.99 11:31 Uhr Seite 225


226

Engine data

* Mechanical valve adjuster

2.0 litreEngine

2.5 litreEngine

1988 2544

96 (125)5500

125 (170)6250

176 (130)4000

220 (162)4250

6150 6700

6375 6925

800±50(880±50)

725±50(725±50)

1-3-4-2 1-4-2-5-3-6

1.3

Electronically controlled

Idle speed (manual transaxle)

Engine

cm3Capacity

kW (HP)at rpmPower output

Nm (lb-ft)at rpmMax. torque

Fuel required 87 Octane

rpmContinuous enginespeed

rpmMax. intermittentengine speed

rpm

Mixture preparation Injection system

Firing order

mmSpark plug gap

Ignition system

0.14 mm0.30 mm

Valve Inletclearances Exhaust

Hydraulic valveadjusters

0.11-0.18*0.27-0.34*

32CCSen 17.6.99 11:31 Uhr Seite 226

D

A

E

B

C

Dimensions mm (inches)

4556 (179.4)

1751 (68.9)

1380 - 1427 (54.3 - 56.2)

2704 (106.5)

1499 - 1518* (59.0 - 59.8)

1483 - 1502* (58.4 - 59.1)

A = Maximum length

B = Overall width (without mirrors)

C = Overall height (curb weight)

D = Wheelbase

E = Track Front

Rear

* Dependent on tire size

227


32CCSen 17.6.99 11:31 Uhr Seite 227


228

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATIONNUMBERThe vehicle identification number(VIN) is attached to a metal tagand is located on the front driver’sside of the instrument panel. TheVIN tag may be seen by lookingthrough the windshield from theoutside of the vehicle.

33CCAen 17.6.99 11:32 Uhr Seite 228

Customer assistance

229

GETTING ROADSIDEASSISTANCETo fully assist you should you havea vehicle concern, Ford offers acomplimentary roadside assistanceprogram. This program is separatefrom the New Vehicle LimitedWarranty. The service is available:

• 24-hours, seven days a week

• for the Basic warranty period(Canada) or New Vehicle LimitedWarranty period (U.S.) of threeyears or 60,000 km (36,000 miles),whichever comes first on Ford andMercury vehicles, and four years or80,000 km (50,000 miles) onLincoln vehicles.

In the United States, you maypurchase additional roadsideassistance coverage beyond thisperiod through the Ford Auto Clubby contacting your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer.

• Roadside assistance will cover

• changing a flat tire

• jump-starts

• lock-out assistance

• fuel delivery

towing to the nearest Ford ofCanada or Ford Motor Companydealership, or towing to yourselling dealership if within 56 km(35 miles). Even non-warrantyrelated tows, like accidents orgetting stuck in the mud or snow,are covered (some exclusionsapply, such as impound towing orrepossession).

Using roadside assistanceComplete the roadside assistanceidentification card and place it inyour wallet for quick reference. Inthe United States, this card isfound in the Owner Guide portfolioin the glove compartment in Fordvehicles and is mailed to you if youown a Mercury or Lincoln. InCanada, it's found in the RoadsideAssistance book in the glovecompartment.

To receive roadside assistance inthe United States for Ford orMercury vehicles, call 1-800-241-3673 or if you own aLincoln vehicle, call 1-800-521-4140. In Canada call 1-800-665-2006.

Should you need to arrangeassistance for yourself, Ford willreimburse a reasonable amount. Toobtain information aboutreimbursement, call 1-800-241-3673 in the UnitedStates for Ford or Mercuryvehicles; or if you own a Lincolnvehicle, call 1-800-521-4140. Call 1-800-665-2006 in Canada.

33CCAen 17.6.99 11:32 Uhr Seite 229

Customer assistance

230

Ford extended service planYou can get more protection foryour new car or light truck bypurchasing Ford Extended ServicePlan (Ford ESP) coverage. FordESP is an optional service contractwhich is backed by Ford MotorCompany or Ford Motor ServiceCompany (in the U.S.) and Ford ofCanada (in Canada). It provides:

• Protection against repair costsafter your New Vehicle LimitedWarranty period expires

and

• other benefits during thewarranty period (such asreimbursement for rentals andtowing).

You may purchase Ford ESP fromany participating Ford or Lincoln-Mercury or Ford of Canada dealer.There are several plans available invarious time, distance anddeductible combinations which canbe tailored to fit your own drivingneeds. Ford ESP also offersreimbursement benefits for towingand rental coverage. (In Hawaii,rules vary. See your dealer fordetails.)

When you buy Ford ESP youreceive Peace-of-Mind protectionthroughout the United States andCanada, provided by a network ofmore than 5,200 participating Ford,Lincoln-Mercury and Ford ofCanada dealers.

If you did not take advantage of theFord Extended Service Plan at thetime of purchasing your vehicle,you may still be eligible. Pleasecontact your dealer for furtherinformation. Since this informationis subject to change, please askyour dealer for complete detailsabout Ford Extended Service Plancoverage options.

Also, please be aware that somedealers offer service contracts thatare not backed by Ford MotorCompany or Ford of Canada. Onthe surface, many independentplans appear to be like Ford's. Theproblem is that they can oftenrequire the use of non-factoryapproved parts and have muchmore complex and restrictiveclaims coverage terms than Ford.

At Ford Motor Company and Fordof Canada, we are dedicated toproviding Ford, Lincoln andMercury vehicle owners withprograms that will enhance yourownership experience and protectyou from unexpected repair bills.Genuine Ford ESP is the onlyExtended Service Plan that enablesus to provide that service.

33CCAen 17.6.99 11:32 Uhr Seite 230

Customer assistance

231

Getting the service you need

At homeFord Motor Company and Ford ofCanada have authorizeddealerships to service your vehicle.When you need warranty repairsyour selling dealer would like youto return to it for that service, butyou may also take your vehicle toanother Ford Motor Companydealership authorized for warrantyrepairs. Certain warranty repairsrequire special training though, sonot all dealers are authorized toperform all warranty repairs. Thatmeans that depending on thewarranty repair needed, the vehiclemay need to be taken to anotherdealer. If a particular dealershipcan not assist you, then contact theCustomer Assistance Center.

If you are not satisfied with theservice you receive at thedealership, speak with the servicemanager. If you are still notsatisfied, speak with the owner orgeneral manager of the dealership.In most cases, your concern will beresolved at this level.

Ford Motor Company and Ford ofCanada dealerships also carrygenuine Ford parts andaccessories, providing you withoriginal equipment reliability.

Away from homeIf you are away from home whenyour vehicle needs service, or ifyou need more help than thedealership could provide, contactthe Ford Customer AssistanceCenter to find an authorizeddealership to help you in theUnited States

Ford Motor CompanyCustomer Assistance Center16800 Executive Plaza DriveP.O. Box 6248Dearborn, Michigan 481211-800-392-3673 (FORD)(TDD for the hearing impaired: 1-800-232-5952)

In Canada:Customer Assistance CentreFord Motor Company of Canada,LimitedP.O. Box 2000Oakville, Ontario L6J 5E41-800-565-3673 (FORD)

33CCAen 17.6.99 11:32 Uhr Seite 231

Customer assistance

232

Please have the followinginformation available whencontacting Ford CustomerAssistance:

• Your telephone number (homeand business)

• The name of the dealer and thecity where the dealership is located

• The year and make of yourvehicle

• The date of vehicle purchase

• The current odometer reading

• The vehicle identificationnumber (VIN)

If you still have a complaintinvolving a warranty dispute, youmay wish to contact the DisputeSettlement Board (U.S.) or theMediation/Arbitration Program(Canada).

In the United States, a warrantydispute must be submitted to theDispute Settlement Board beforetaking action under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, or to theextent allowed by state law, beforepursuing replacement orrepurchase remedies provided bycertain state laws. This disputehandling procedure is not requiredprior to enforcing state createdrights or other rights which areindependent of the Magnuson-MossWarranty Act or state replacementor repurchase laws.

THE DISPUTE SETTLEMENTBOARD (U.S. ONLY)The Dispute Settlement Board is

• an independent, third-partyarbitration program for warrantydisputes

• available free to owners andlessees of qualifying Ford MotorCompany vehicles

The Dispute Settlement Board maynot be available in all states: FordMotor Company reserves the rightto change eligibility limitations,modify procedures and/or todiscontinue this service withoutnotice and without incurringobligations per applicable state law.

What kinds of cases does theBoard review?Unresolved warranty repairconcerns or vehicle performance asdesigned concerns on Ford,Mercury and Lincoln cars and Fordor Mercury light trucks which arewithin the terms of any applicablewritten new vehicle warranty areeligible for review, except thoseinvolving:

• a non-Ford product

• a non-Ford dealership

33CCAen 17.6.99 11:32 Uhr Seite 232

Customer assistance

233

• sales disputes between customerand dealer except those associatedwith warranty repairs or concernswith the vehicle's performance asdesigned

• a request for reimbursement ofconsequential expenses unless aservice or product concern is beingreviewed

• items not covered by the NewVehicle Limited Warranty(including maintenance and wearitems)

• alleged personal injury/propertydamage claims

• cases currently in litigation

• vehicles not used primarily forfamily, personal or householdpurposes (except in states wherethe Dispute Settlement Board isrequired to review commercialvehicles).

• vehicles with non-U.S.warranties

Concerns are ineligible for review ifthe New Vehicle Limited Warrantyhas expired at receipt of yourapplication and in certain stateseligibility is dependent upon thecustomer's possession of thevehicle.

Eligibility may differ according tostate law. For example see theunique brochures for California,West Virginia, Georgia andWisconsin purchasers/lessees.

Board membershipThe Board consists of:

• three consumer representatives

• a Ford or Lincoln-Mercurydealership representative

Consumer candidates for Boardmembership are recruited andtrained by an independentconsulting firm. The dealershipBoard member is chosen from Fordand Lincoln-Mercury dealershipmanagement, recognized for theirbusiness leadership qualities.

What the Board needsTo have your case reviewed youmust complete the application inthe DSB brochure and mail it to theaddress provided on theapplication form.

Your application is reviewed and, ifit is determined to be eligible, youwill receive an acknowledgementindicating:

• the file number assigned to yourapplication

• the toll-free phone number ofthe DSB's independentadministrator

• Your dealership and a FordMotor Company representative areasked to submit statements at thistime.

33CCAen 17.6.99 11:32 Uhr Seite 233

Customer assistance

234

To properly review your case, theBoard needs the followinginformation:

• legible copies of all documentsand maintenance or repair ordersrelevant to the case

• the year, make, model, andVehicle Identification Number(VIN) listed on your vehicleownership license

• the date of repair(s) and mileageat the time of occurrence(s)

• the current mileage

• the name of the dealer who soldor serviced the vehicle

• a brief description of yourunresolved concern

• a brief summary of the actiontaken by the dealer(s) and FordMotor Company

• the names (if known) of all thepeople you contacted at thedealership(s)

• a description of the action youexpect to resolve your concern

• You will receive a letter ofexplanation if your application doesnot qualify for Board review.

Oral presentationsIf you would like to make an oralpresentation indicate YES toquestion #6 on the application.While it is your right to make anoral presentation before the Board,this is not a requirement and theBoard will decide the case whetheror not an oral presentation is made.Oral presentation may berequested by the Board as well.

Making a decisionBoard members review all availableinformation related to eachcomplaint, including oralpresentations, and arrive at a fairand impartial decision.

Every effort is made to decide thecase within 40 days of the date thatall requested information isreceived by the Board. Since theBoard generally meets once amonth, it may take more than amonth before the Board canconsider some cases.

33CCAen 17.6.99 11:32 Uhr Seite 234

Customer assistance

235

After a case is reviewed, the Boardmails you a decision letter and aform on which to accept or rejectthe Board's decision. The decisionsof the Board are binding on Ford(and, in some cases, on the dealer)but not on consumers who are freeto pursue other remedies availableto them under state or federal law.

To request a DSBbrochure/applicationFor a brochure/application, speakto your dealer or write/call to theBoard at the followingaddress/phone number:

Dispute Settlement BoardP.O. Box 5120Southfield, MI 48086-51201-800-428-3718

You may also contact the NorthAmerican Customer AssistanceCenter at 1-800-392-3673 (Ford).TDD for the hearing impaired: 1-800-232-5952 or by writing to theCenter at the following address:

Ford Motor CompanyCustomer Assistance Center16800 Executive Plaza DriveP.O. Box 6248Dearborn, Michigan 48121

UTILIZING THEMEDIATION/ARBITRATIONPROGRAM (CANADA ONLY)In those cases where you continueto feel that the efforts by Ford andthe dealer to resolve a factory-related vehicle service concernhave been unsatisfactory, Ford ofCanada participates in an impartialthird party mediation/arbitrationprogram administered by theCanadian Motor Vehicle ArbitrationPlan (CAMVAP). The CAMVAPprogram is a straight forward andrelatively speedy alternative toresolve a disagreement when allother efforts to produce asettlement have failed. Thisprocedure is without cost to youand is designed to eliminate theneed for lenghty and expensivelegal proceedings. In the CAMVAPprogram, impartial third partyarbitrators conduct hearings atmutually convenient times andplaces in an informal environment.These impartial arbitrators reviewthe positions of the parties, makedecisions and, when appropriate,render awards to resolve disputes.CAMVAP decisions are fast, fair,and final, the arbitrator’s award isbinding both to you and Ford ofCanada. CAMVAP services areavailable in all territories andprovinces, except Quebec. Formore information, without chargeor obligation, call your CAMVAPProvincial Administrator directly at1 800-207-0685.

33CCAen 17.6.99 11:32 Uhr Seite 235

Customer assistance

236

If your vehicle must be servicedwhile you are traveling or living inCentral or South America, theCaribbean, or the Middle East,contact the nearest Forddealership. If the dealership cannothelp you, write or call:

FORD MOTOR COMPANYWORLDWIDE DIRECT MARKETOPERATIONS1555 Fairlane DriveFairlane Business Park #3Allen Park, Michigan 48101U.S.A.Telephone: (313) 594-4857FAX: (313) 390-9804

If you are in another foreigncountry, contact the nearest Forddealership. If the dealershipemployees cannot help you, theycan direct you to the nearest Fordaffiliate office.

If you buy your vehicle in NorthAmerica and then relocate outsideof the U.S. or Canada, register yourvehicle identification number(VIN) and new address with FordMotor Company Worldwide DirectMarket Operations.

GETTING ASSISTANCEOUTSIDE THE U.S. ANDCANADA

Before exporting your vehicle to aforeign country, contact theappropriate foreign embassy orconsulate. These officials caninform you of local vehicleregistration regulations and whereto find unleaded fuel.

If you cannot find unleaded fuel orcan only get fuel with an anti-knockindex lower than is recommendedfor your vehicle, contact a districtor owner relations/customerassistance office.

The use of leaded fuel in yourvehicle without proper conversionmay damage the effectiveness ofyour emission control system andmay cause engine knocking orserious engine damage. Ford MotorCompany/Ford of Canada is notresponsible for any damage causedby use of improper fuel.

In the United States, using leadedfuel may also result in difficultyimporting your vehicle back intothe U.S.

33CCAen 17.6.99 11:32 Uhr Seite 236

Customer assistance

237

FORD CAR CARE PRODUCTSFOR YOUR VEHICLEFord has many quality productsavailable from your dealer toclean your vehicle and protect itsfinishes. For best results, use thefollowing or products ofequivalent quality

Ford Custom Clearcoat Polish*

Ford Custom Silicone GlossPolish

Ford Custom Vinyl Protectant*

Ford Deluxe Leather and VinylCleaner

Ford Extra Strength Tar andRoad Oil Remover*

Ford Extra Strength UpholsteryCleaner

Ford Metal Surface Cleaner

Ford Multi-Purpose Cleaner*

Motorcraft Car Wash Concentrate

Motorcraft Carlite Glass Cleaner

Ford Spot and Stain Remover*

Ford Super Premium Tire andTrim Dressing

Ford Triple Clean

Ford Ultra-Clear Spray GlassCleaner

* May be sold with the Motorcraftname

FORD ACCESSORIES FORYOUR VEHICLEA wide selection of accessories isavailable through your localauthorized Ford, Lincoln-Mercuryor Ford of Canada dealer. Thesequality accessories have beenspecifically engineered to fulfillyour automotive needs; they arecustom designed to complementthe style and aerodynamicappearance of your vehicle. Inaddition, each accessory is madefrom high quality materials andmeets or exceeds Ford's rigidengineering and safetyspecifications. Ford accessories arewarranted for up to 12 months or20,000 km (12,000 miles) on allcars and light trucks and 12months with unlimited distance onmedium/heavy duty trucks unlessthe accessory is installed on a newvehicle, then the warranty becomesthe balance of the new vehicle'swarranty or the accessorieswarranty, whichever is greater. Seeyour dealer for complete warrantyinformation and availability.

Not all accessories areavailable for all models.

33CCAen 17.6.99 11:32 Uhr Seite 237

Customer assistance

238

Travel equipmentConsole

Console armrest

Daytime running lights

Factory luggage rack

Factory luggage rack adapters

Fog lights

Framed luggage covers

Heavy-duty battery

Neutral towing transfer case kit(Explorer 4.0L only)

Off road lights

Pickup box rails

Removable luggage rack

Removable luggage rack adapters

Retractable bed hooks and loops

Running boards

Snow traction cables

Soft luggage cover

Speed control

Towing mirrors

Trailer hitch

Trailer hitch bars and balls

Trailer hitch wiring adaptor

Vehicle SecurityRemote keyless entry

Styled wheel protector locks

Vehicle security systems

Comfort and convenience

Air conditioner

Air filtration systems

Cargo nets

Cargo organizers

Cargo shades

Cargo trays

Dash trim

Engine block heaters

Gear shift knob

Luggage presenter (Continentalonly)

Manual sliding rear window

Tire step

33CCAen 17.6.99 11:32 Uhr Seite 238

Customer assistance

239

Protection and appearanceequipmentAir bag anti-theft locks

Bed mat/bedliner tailgate covers

Bed mats

Bedliners

Car/truck covers

Cargo liners, interior

Carpet floor mats

Cleaners, waxes and polishes

Flat splash guards

Frond end covers (full and mini)

Hood deflectors

Locking gas cap

Lubricants and oils

Molded splash guards

Molded vinyl floor mats

Rallye bars

Rear air deflectors

Rear decklid spoilers

Side window air deflectors

Spare tire lock

Step bumpers

Step/sill plates

Tailgate covers

Tailgate lock

Tailgate protection

Tonneau covers

Touch-up paint

Universal floor mats

For maximum vehicle performance,keep the following information inmind when adding accessories orequipment to your vehicle:

• When adding accessories,equipment, passengers and luggageto your vehicle, do not exceed thetotal weight capacity of the vehicleor of the front or rear axle (GVWRor GAWR as indicated on the Safetycompliance certification label).Consult your dealer for specificweight information.

• The Federal CommunicationsCommission (FCC) and CanadianRadio TelecommunicationsCommission (CRTC) regulate theuse of mobile communicationssystems - such as two-way radios,telephones and theft alarms - thatare equipped with radiotransmitters. Any such equipmentinstalled in your vehicle shouldcomply with FCC or CRTCregulations and should be installedonly by a qualified servicetechnician.

33CCAen 17.6.99 11:32 Uhr Seite 239

Customer assistance

240

ORDERING ADDITIONALOWNER'S LITERATURETo order the publications in thisportfolio in the United States:

Make checks payable to:HELM, INCORPORATEDP.O. Box 07150Detroit, Michigan, 48207

For a free publication catalog,order toll free: 1-800-782-4356

Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 6:00p.m. EST., for credit card holders only.To order the publications in thisportfolio in CanadaMake cheques payable to:Ford Motor Company of Canada,Ltd.Service PublicationsP.O. Box 1580, Station BMississauga, Ontario, Canada L4Y4G3

or order toll free: 1-800-387-4966

Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 6:00p.m. EST.,for credit card holders only.

• Mobile communications systemsmay harm the operation of yourvehicle, particularly if they are notproperly designed for automotiveuse or are not properly installed.When operated, such systems maycause the engine to stumble orstall. In addition, such systems maybe damaged or their performancemay be affected by operating yourvehicle. (Citizens band [CB]transceivers, garage door openersand other transmitters withoutputs of five watts or less will notordinarily affect your vehicle'soperation.)

• Ford cannot assumeresponsibility for any adverseeffects or damage that may resultfrom the use of such equipment.

33CCAen 17.6.99 11:32 Uhr Seite 240

Reporting safety defects

241

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS(U.S. ONLY)If you believe that your vehicle hasa defect that could cause a crash,or could cause injury or death, youshould immediately inform theNational Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration (NHTSA) inaddition to Ford Motor Company.

If NHTSA receives similarcomplaints, it may open aninvestigation, and if it finds that asafety defect exists in a group ofvehicles, it may order a recall andremedy campaign. However,NHTSA cannot become involved inindividual problems between you,your dealer or Ford MotorCompany.

To contact NHTSA, you may eithercall the Auto Safety Hotlinetoll–free at 1-800-424-9393 (202-366-0123 in the WashingtonD.C. area) or write to

NHTSAU.S.Department of Transportation

400 Seventh StreetWashington D.C. 20590

You can also obtain otherinformation about motor vehiclesafety from the hotline.

33CCAen 17.6.99 11:32 Uhr Seite 241

Index

242

A PageAccessory position on the ignition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54Additives, engine oil . . . . . . . . .169Air bag supplementalrestraint system

and child safety seats . . . . . . . .87description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92indicator light . . . . . . . . . . .15, 91operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89wearing safety belts . . . . . . . . .87

Air conditioning (see Climate control system)Alarm, activating panic . . . . . . . .69Antenna, radio (see Audio system) . . . . . . . . . . .53Anti-lock brake system (ABS) .116Anti-theft system (see PassiveAnti-Theft System)Antifreeze (see Engine coolant)Audio system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34Automatic transaxle

driving with . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .121fluid, adding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .179fluid, checking . . . . . . . . . . . . .179fluid, refill capacities . . . . . . . .224fluid, specification . . . . . . . . . .225

B

Backing up . . . . . . . . . . . . .123, 129Battery

charging system warning light . .9jumping a disabled battery . . .154proper disposal, recycling . . . .184replacement, specifications . .223servicing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .182

Brake fluidchecking and adding . . . . . . . .172specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . .225

Brake-shift interlock . . . . . . . . .121Brakelamps (see Bulb replacement)

B PageBrakes

anti-lock brake system (ABS) 116brake warning light . . . . . . . . . .14fluid, checking and adding . . .172fluid, refill capacities . . . . . . . .224fluid, specification . . . . . . . . . .225parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .116

Built-in child seatfolding up the seat . . . . . . . . .102inspection after a collision . . .102interlock safety feature . . . . . . .98operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97retractors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98

Break-in period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2Bulbs, replacing

foglamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .208headlamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .206high-mounted brake lamp . . . .210license plate lamp . . . . . . . . . .209rear lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . .212

C

Cabin air filter . . . . . . . . . . .33, 186Capacities for refilling fluids . . .224Carbon monoxyde in exhaust . .110Catalytic converter . . . . . . . . . .202Chains, tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .194Changing a tire . . . . . . . . . . . . .150Charging system warning light . . .9Child safety restraints

built-in child seat . . . . . . . . . . .97child safety seats . . . . . . . . . . .103children and safety belts . . .93, 95

Child safety seatsand air bags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88attaching with tether straps . .104automatic locking mode . . . . . .79

Childproof safety locks . . . . . . . .65Chimes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19Circuit breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . .143

4CInden 17.6.99 11:32 Uhr Seite 242

243

Index

C PageCleaning your vehicle

engine compartment . . . . . . . .219exterior lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . .220fabric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .221instrument panel . . . . . . . . . . .221plastic exterior parts . . . . . . . .220safety belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .222wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .218wiper blades . . . . . . . . . . . . . .220

Climate control systemair conditioning . . . . . . . . . . . . .29controlling airflow . . . . . . . . . . .26defrosting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45Clutch

operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .127recommended shift speeds . . .128

Cold engine starting . . . . . . . . .114Controls

instrument panel . . . . . . . . . . . .20power seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75steering column . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Customer assistance . . . . . . . . .229

D

Daytime running lights . . . . . . . .23Defects, reporting . . . . . . . . . . .241Defrost

rear window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24windshield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Dipstick, engine oil . . . . . . . . . .167Door mounted controls . . . . . . . .64Driving under special conditions

heavy load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .133towing a trailer . . . . . . . . . . . .134

E

Electrical systemfuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143

E PageEmergencies, roadside

fuel pump shut-off switch . . . .141jump starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . .154towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .160

Emergency brake (see Parkingbrake)Emission control system . . . . . .202Engine

check engine warning light . . . .12fuel pump shut-off switch . . . .141lubricant specifications . . . . . .225preparing to start . . . . . . . . . .111refill capacities . . . . . . . . . . . .224starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .114

Engine block heater . . . . . . . . .115Engine coolant

checking and adding . . . . . . . .174disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .178low coolant warning light . . . . .11refilll capacities . . . . . . . . . . . .224specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . .225

Engine fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .163Engine oil

changing oil and filter . . . . . . .170checking and adding . . . . . . . .169dipstick . . . . . . . . . .167, 168, 169disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .171engine oil pressure warning light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18filter specifications . . . . . . . . .223refill capacities . . . . . . . . . . . .224specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . .225

Exhaust fumes . . . . . . . . . .110, 202

F

Fan (see Engine fan)Flasher, hazard . . . . . . . . . .56, 141Flashing the lights . . . . . . . . . . . .57Floor mats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67Fluid refill capacities . . . . . . . . .224Foglamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23, 208


Index

244

F PageFuel

calculating fuel economy . . . .201capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .224choosing the right fuel . . . . . .198consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . . .140fuel gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21low fuel warning light . . . . . . . .15octane rating . . . . . . . . . . . . . .199quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .199running out of fuel . . . . . . . . .202safety information relatingto automotive fuels . . . . . . . . .196

Fuel pump shut-off switch . . . .141Fuse panels

engine compartment . . . . . . . .144instrument panel . . . . . . . . . . .146

Fusescharts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .145, 148checking and replacing . . . . . .143

G

Gas mileage (see Fuel)Gauges

engine coolant temperature . . .20fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20trip odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

GAWR(Gross Axle Weight Rating) . . .131Gearshift . . . . . . . . . . . . . .123, 128GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) .131

H

Hazard flashers . . . . . . . . . .56, 141Head restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74Headlamps

aiming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .213bulb specifications . . . . . . . . .212daytime running light . . . . . . . .23flashing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

H Pagehigh beam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57replacing bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . .206turning on and off . . . . . . . . . . .22warning chime . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

High beamsindicator light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

High-mount brakelamp . . . . . . .210Hood

latch location . . . . . . . . . . . . . .166release lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . .166

Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

I

Identification Number, Vehicle(VIN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .228Idle, relearning . . . . . . . . . . . . .185Idle, speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .185Ignition

chime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19positions on the ignition . . . . . .54

Instrument cluster . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Instrument panel

cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .221lighting up the panel . . . . . . . . .25

Integrated child seat (see Built-inchild seat)Intermittent wipers . . . . . . . . . . .58Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

J

Jackpositioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .152storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151

Jump starting your vehicleattaching cables . . . . . . . . . . . .155disconnecting cables . . . . . . . .158

K

Keyskey in ignition warning chime .19positions of the ignition . . . . . .54


Index

245

L PageLamps

bulb replacement specificationchart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .212daytime running light system . .23flashing the lamps . . . . . . . . . . .57foglamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23, 208hazard flashers . . . . . . . . .56, 141headlamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22high beams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57high-mounted brake lamp . . . .210instrument panel, dimming . . .25interior lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62reading lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62replacing bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . .206rear lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209

Lights, warning and indicatorair bag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15anti-lock brakes (ABS) . . . . . . .17brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16charging system . . . . . . . . . . . . .9check engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12engine oil pressure . . . . . . . . . .18high beam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9low coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11low fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15overdrive off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11safety belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9testing the warning lights . . . . .19turn signal indicator . . . . . . . . . .8

Load limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .130Lubricant specifications . . . . . .225Luggage compartment . . . . . . . .66

M

Maintenance (see Servicing)Manual transaxle

backing up (reverse) . . . . . . . .129clutch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .127fluid, capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . .224shift speeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .128

M PageMileage, calculating fueleconomy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201Mirrors

side view mirrors (power) . . . .25Motorcraft parts . . . . . . . . . . . .223

N

National Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration . . . . . . . . . . . . . .241

O

Octane rating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .199Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20Oil (see Engine oil)Oil filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .170, 223On-board diagnostic (OBD II) system . . . . . . . . . . . .205Overdrive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11, 124Overhead controls . . . . . . . . . . . .62

P

Panel dimmer control . . . . . . . . .25Panic alarm, remote entry sytem 69Parking brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118Parts (see Motorcraft parts) . . .223Passenger compartment air filter (see Cabin air filter)Passive Anti-TheftSystem (PATS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71Power distribution box (see Fuses)Power door locks . . . . . . . . . . . . .64Power features

mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

Power steeringfluid, checking and adding . . .178fluid, refill capacity . . . . . . . . .224fluid, specification . . . . . . . . . .225


Index

246

R PageRadio (see Audio system) . . . . . .34Rear window defroster . . . . . . . .24Refill capacities for fluids . . . . .224Relays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .146Remote control

luggage compartment . . . . . . . .66Remote entry system

locking/unlocking doors . . . . . .68opening the trunk . . . . . . . . . . .69panic alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69replacing the batteries . . . . . . .69replacement/additionaltransmitters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70

Repairing paint chips . . . . . . . .218Reporting safety defects . . . . . .241Restraints, safety . . . . . . . . . . . . .77Rotating the tires . . . . . . . . . . . .191

S

Safety belts (see Safety restraints)Safety chains, when towing a trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .138Safety Compliance CertificationLabel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .136Safety defects, reporting . . . . . .241Safety restraints

adjusting the safety belts . . . . .81automatic locking mode (retractors) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79cleaning the safety belts . . . . .222extention assembly . . . . . . . . . .85for children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93head restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . .74lap and shoulder belts . . . . . . . .78maintenance . . . . . . . . . . .86, 222vehicle sensitive locking mode .79warning light and chime . . . .9, 19

Safety seats for childrenand air bags . . . . . . . . . . . .87, 103attaching with tether straps . .104automatic locking mode

S Page(retractors) . . . . . . . . . . . .79, 102built-in child seat . . . . . . . . . . .97in front seat . . . . . . . . . . . .87, 104tether anchorage hardware . .107

Seatsadjusting the seats, manual . . .74adjusting the seats, power . . . .75folding rear seats . . . . . . . . . . . .76head restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

Servicing your vehicle . . . . . . . .162Shift-lock system . . . . . . . . . . . .121Shift positions (see Gearshift)Snow tires and chains . . . . . . . .194Spare tire

changing the tire . . . . . . . . . . .150removing the spare tire . . . . . .151temporary spare tire . . . . . . . .150

Spark plugs, certifications . . . .223Specification charts, lubricants 225Speed control

disengaging speed control . . . .62return to a set speed . . . . . . . . .62set a speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60set a higher speed . . . . . . . . . . .61set a lower speed . . . . . . . . . . . .61turn speed control off . . . . . . . .59turn speed control on . . . . . . . .59

Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20Starting your vehicle

preparing to start the vehicle .111starting the engine . . . . . . . . .114

Steering column controls . . . . . .55Steering wheel

horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56speed control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59tilting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63Supplemental restraint system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87


Index

247

T PageTachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21Tail lamps (see Lamps)Temperature control (see Climate control)Testing the warning lights . . . . . .19Tether anchor installation (see Child safety restraints)Tilt steering wheel . . . . . . . . . . . .55Tires

changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .150checking tire pressure . . . . . .191cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .218inspection and maintenance . .191replacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .192rotating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .191snow tires and chains . . . . . . .194spare tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151tire grades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .188treadwear . . . . . . . . . . . . .189, 192wearbands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .192

Towing your vehicle . . . . . . . . .161Trailer towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .134Transaxle

automatic, operation . . . . . . . .121fluid, checking and adding (automatic) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .179fluid, refill capacities . . . . . . . .224lubricant specifications . . . . . .225manual, operation . . . . . . . . . .127

Transmitter (see Remote entry)Trip odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20Trunk (see Luggage compartment)

remote release lever . . . . . . . . .66using the remote entry system .69

Turn signalindicator lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

U

Used engine oil, disposal . . . . . .171

V PageVariable interval wipers . . . . . . . .58Vehicle care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .216Vehicle Identification Number(VIN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .228Vehicle Emission Control Information(VECI) . . . . . . . . . .204Vehicle loading . . . . . . . . . . . . .130Ventilating your vehicle . . . . . .109Viscosity (see Engine oil)

W

Warning chimesheadlamps on . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19key in ignition . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19safety belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Warning lights (see Lights)Washer fluid reservoir . . . .167, 168Weight limits (GAWR, GVWR) .130Wheels

cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .218inspection and maintenance . .191

Windowsone-touch down . . . . . . . . . . . .64power windows, operating . . . .64rear, defrosting . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Windshield washer fluid and wiperschecking and adding fluid . . . .172checking and replacing wiper blades . . . . . . . . . . . . . .186operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58fluid, specification . . . . . . . . . .225variable interval wipers . . . . . . .58

Wrecker towing . . . . . . . . . . . . .160


248

Filling station information

UNLEADED FUEL ONLYOctane 87

58.5 litres (15.4 gallons)

Use Super Premium SAE 5W-30Motor Oil or equivalent meeting-Ford specification WSS-M2C153-G.

Refer to Safety Compliance Certifi-cation label on driver’s door pillar

Pull handle under the left side ofthe instrument panel

Right rear of vehicle

Fuel

Fuel tank capacity

Engine oil

Tire size and pressure

Hood release location

Fuel filler location


ford contour mk2 (usa owner's manual)

Documents