1997 lincoln town car

File:01fnpit.exUpdate:Thu Jun 20 15:12:55 1996

i

Table of Contents


ii


iii


iv


1

Introduction

Ford’s Commitment to YouAt Ford Motor Company, excellence is thecontinuous commitment to achieve the best resultpossible. It is dedication to learning what you want,determination to develop the right concept, andexecution of that concept with care, precision, andattention to detail. In short, excellence means beingthe standard by which others are judged.

Our Guiding Principles

❑ Quality comes first. For your satisfaction, thequality of our products and services must be ournumber one priority.

❑ You are the focus of everything we do. Ourwork must be done with you in mind,providing better products and services than ourcompetition.

❑ Continuous improvement is essential to oursuccess. We must strive for excellence ineverything we do: in our products — in theirsafety and value — and in our services, ourhuman relations, our competitiveness, and ourprofitability.

❑ Employee involvement is our way of life.We are a team. We must treat one anotherwith trust and respect.

❑ Dealers and suppliers are our partners. Wemust maintain mutually beneficial relationshipswith dealers, suppliers, and our other businessassociates.

❑ Integrity is never compromised. Our conductworldwide must be pursued in a manner that issocially responsible and commands respect forits integrity and for its positive contributions tosociety.

File:02fniit.exUpdate:Mon Jun 17 13:45:23 1996

2

Things to Know About Using ThisGuideCongratulations on the purchase of your newvehicle. This guide has information about theequipment and the options for your new vehicle.You may not have bought all of the optionsavailable to you. If you do not know whichinformation applies to your vehicle, talk to yourdealer.

This guide describes equipment and givesspecifications for equipment that was in effect whenthis guide was approved for printing. Ford maydiscontinue models or change specifications ordesign without any notice and without incurringobligation.

NOTES and WARNINGSNOTES give you additional information about thesubject matter you are referencing.

WARNINGS remind you to be especially careful inthose areas where carelessness can cause damage toyour vehicle or personal injury to yourself, yourpassengers or other people. Please read allWARNINGS carefully.

WARNING

Finding Information in This GuideAfter you have read this guide once, you willprobably return to it when you have a specificquestion or need additional information. To helpyou find specific information quickly, you can usethe Quick Index or the Index.

The Quick Index at the end of the book providesa page number following each item which indicateswhere detailed information can be found.


3

To use the Index, turn to the back of the bookand search in the alphabetical listing for the wordthat best describes the information you need. If theword you chose is not listed, think of other relatedwords and look them up. We have designed theIndex so that you can find information under atechnical term.

Canadian Owners — French VersionFrench Owner Guides can be obtained from yourdealer or by writing to Ford Motor Company ofCanada, Limited, Service Publications, P.O. Box1580, Station B, Mississauga, Ontario L4Y 4G3.

The Lincoln CommitmentThe Lincoln Commitment is more than the prestigeof owning a superior luxury automobile, it is acomprehensive owner benefits package that isdesigned to provide you with services to supportyour every driving need. Refer to the LincolnCommitment brochure for more information.

Your Maintenance Schedule andRecord BookletThe Maintenance Schedule booklet lists the servicesthat are most important for keeping your vehicle ingood condition. A record log is also provided tohelp you keep track of all services performed.

About the WarrantiesYour vehicle is covered by three types of warranties:Basic Vehicle Warranty, Extended Warrantieson certain parts, and Emissions Warranties.

Read your Warranty Information Booklet carefully tofind out about your vehicle’s warranties and yourbasic rights and responsibilities.

If you lose your Warranty Information Booklet, youcan get a new one free of charge. Contact any Fordor Lincoln-Mercury dealer, or refer to the addressesand phone numbers on the first page of thisOwner’s Guide.


4

Ford Extended Service PlanMore Protection for Your VehicleYou can get more protection for your new car orlight truck by purchasing a Ford Extended ServicePlan (Ford ESP). Ford ESP is the only extendedservice program with the Ford name on it and theonly service contract backed by Ford MotorCompany.

Ford ESP is an optional service contract, backed andadministered by Ford. It provides:

❑ protection against repair costs after your Bumperto Bumper Warranty expires;

and

❑ other benefits during the warranty period (suchas: reimbursement for rentals; coverage forcertain maintenance and wear items).

You may purchase Ford ESP from any participatingFord Motor Company dealer. There are several FordESP plans available in various time-and-mileagecombinations. Each plan can be tailored to fit yourown driving needs, including reimbursementbenefits for towing and rental. (In Hawaii, rulesvary. See your dealer for details.)

When you buy Ford ESP, you receive peace-of-mindprotection throughout the United States andCanada, provided by a network of more than 5,100participating Ford Motor Company dealers.

NOTE: Repairs performed outside the United Statesand Canada are not eligible for ESP coverage.

This information is subject to change. Ask yourdealer for complete details about Ford ESP coverage.


5

Breaking Your Vehicle InYour new vehicle goes through an adjustment orbreak-in period during the first 1,000 miles(1,600 km) that you drive it. During the break-inperiod, you need to pay careful attention to howyou drive your vehicle.

❑ Avoid sudden stops. Because your vehicle hasnew brake linings, you should take these steps:

— Watch traffic carefully so that you cananticipate when to stop.

— Begin braking well in advance.

— Apply the brakes gradually.

The break-in period for new brake liningslasts for 100 miles (160 km) of city drivingor 1,000 miles (1,600 km) of highwaydriving.

❑ Use only the type of engine oil that Fordrecommends. See Engine oil recommendationsin the Index. Do not use special “break-in” oils.


7

Instrumentation

The instrument panel (dashboard) on your vehicle isdivided into several different sections. Theillustrations on the following pages show the majorparts of the instrument panel that are described inthis chapter. Some items shown may not be on allvehicles.

The main controls for the climate control system,clock, and radio are on the instrument panel.

If you have radio transmitting equipment in yourvehicle, be aware that it can interfere with yourvehicle’s electrical system and may cause theinstrumentation and/or convenience products tohave temporary, abnormal operation.

NOTE: Any cleaner or polish that increases thegloss (shine) of the upper part of the instrumentpanel should be avoided. The dull finish in this areais to help protect the driver from undesirablewindshield reflection

In your vehicle, the warning lights and gauges aregrouped together on the instrument panel. We callthis grouping a cluster. Your vehicle has anelectronic cluster.

File:03fnist.exUpdate:Mon Jun 17 13:46:47 1996

8

The Electronic ClusterThe electronic cluster works only when yourignition is in the ON position. Each time you startyour vehicle, the displays go through a self-test byflashing on and off once before the actual readingsare displayed. (Neither the turn signals nor the highbeam indicator light will flash like the otherindicators do for the self-test.) Some of the warninglights will flash on and remain on (will notimmediately flash off) until the normal clusterdisplay is lit. This self-test is used to indicate thatall of the warning/indicator lights are workingproperly.

Your electronic cluster tells you about the conditionof your vehicle by using two types of equipment:

❑ warning lights and gauges

❑ message center


9


10

Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge

This gauge indicates the engine coolant temperaturenot the coolant level. If the coolant is not at itsproper level or mixture, the gauge indication willnot be accurate. It is identified by a thermometersymbol, an “H” (hot), and a “C” (cold). The“NORMAL” indicates the normal operating range.The bars will move into the normal operating range

as the engine coolant warms up. It is acceptableunder certain driving conditions such as, heavy stopand go traffic, or driving up hills in hot weather, forthe gauge to indicate at the top of the NORMALband.

If, under any circumstance, the pointer movesabove the NORMAL band, the temperature symbolflashes and a tone will sound to alert the driverthat the engine coolant is overheating andcontinued operation may cause engine damage.

If your engine overheats:

1. Pull off the road as soon as it is safely possible.

2. Turn off the engine. If you do not stop theengine as soon as safely possible, severe enginedamage could result.

3. Let the engine cool. DO NOT REMOVECOOLANT SYSTEM FILL CAP UNTIL THEENGINE IS COOL.


11

4. Check the coolant level following theinstructions on checking and adding coolant toyour engine, see Engine Coolant in the Index.If you do not follow these instructions, you orothers could be injured.

If the coolant continues to overheat, have thecoolant system serviced.

If only the top two and bottom two bars appear onthe gauge, then the system is indicating that itrequires servicing. Contact your dealer for service assoon as possible.

Anti-Lock Brake System LightThis warning light will go on each time you startyour vehicle. If it remains on for longer than 5seconds, you should shut off your engine andrestart. If the anti-lock brake light stays on, thisindicates that the anti-lock feature is disabled andshould receive immediate attention by a qualified

service technician. Normal braking is not affectedunless the brake warning light is also lit.

The Anti-Lock Brake System has self-checkcapabilities. As previously described, the systemturns on the anti-lock light each time you start yourengine. After the engine is started and the anti-locklight is out, the system performs another test thefirst time the vehicle reaches 14 mph (22 km/h).The system turns on the Anti-Lock Brake System(ABS) pump motor for approximately 1/2 second.At this time a mechanical noise may be heard. Thisis a normal part of the self-check feature. If amalfunction is found during this check the anti-locklight will come on.


12

WARNING

If the anti-lock brake system warninglight remains on or comes on whiledriving, have the braking systemchecked by a qualified servicetechnician as soon as possible.

Brake System LightThe warning light for the brakes can show twothings — that the parking brake is not fullyreleased, or that the brake fluid level is low in themaster cylinder reservoir. If the fluid level is low,the brake system should be checked by a qualifiedservice technician.

This light comes on briefly when you turn theignition key to ON, but it normally goes off shortlyafter the engine starts and you release the parkingbrake. If the light stays on or comes on after youhave released the parking brake fully, have thehydraulic brake system serviced.


13

WARNING

The BRAKE light indicates that thebrakes may not be working properly.Have the brakes checked immediately.

Safety Belt Warning Light and ChimeThis warning light and chime remind you to fastenyour safety belt. The following conditions will takeplace:

❑ If the driver’s safety belt is not buckled whenthe ignition is turned to the ON position, thelight will turn on for 1 to 2 minutes and thechime will sound for 4 to 8 seconds.

❑ If the driver’s safety belt is buckled while thelight is on or the chime is sounding, both thelight and the chime will turn off.

❑ If the driver’s safety belt is buckled before theignition is turned to the ON position, neitherthe light nor the chime will turn on.

High Beam LightThis light illuminates when the headlamps areturned to high beam or when you flash the lights.


14

Check Engine Warning LightThis light illuminates when the engine’s EmissionControl System requires service. It will alsoilluminate when the ignition key is in the ONposition and the engine is off.

Air Bag Readiness LightThe air bag system uses a readiness light and a toneto indicate the condition of the system. Thereadiness light is in the instrument panel. Whenyou turn the ignition key to the ON position, thislight will light up for six (6) seconds and then turnoff. This indicates that the system is operatingnormally. NOTE: Regularly scheduled maintenanceof the air bag system is not required.

If the light fails to illuminate, continues to flash,remains on, or you hear a beeping sound, have thesystem serviced at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercurydealer immediately.


15

Charging System Warning LightThis light comes on when you turn your ignitionkey from OFF to ON (engine off). The light shouldgo out when the engine starts and the alternatorbegins to charge.

If this light stays on or comes on while your engineis running, this tells you that your battery is notbeing charged and that you need to have theelectrical system checked as soon as possible.

Engine Oil Pressure Light

This light indicates the lack of engine oil pressure,not the oil level. However, if your engine’s oil levelis low, it could affect the oil pressure. The lightshould come on every time your ignition key isturned to ON or START, and should go out whenthe engine starts. If the light stays on or turns onwhile the engine is running, you have lost oilpressure and continued operation will cause severeengine damage.


16

If you lose engine oil pressure:

1. Pull off the road as soon as safely possible.

2. Shut off the engine immediately. If you do notstop the engine as soon as safely possible,severe engine damage could result.

3. Check the engine’s oil level, following theinstructions on checking and adding engine oil,see Engine Oil in the Index. If you do notfollow these instructions, you or others couldbe injured. To assure an accurate reading, yourcar should be on level ground.

4. If the level is low, add only as much oil asnecessary before you start the engine again. Donot overfill. Do not operate the engine if thelight is on, regardless of the oil level. Contactyour nearest dealer for further service actions.

For more information about adding oil, see Addingengine oil in the Maintenance and Care chapter ofthis guide.

Turn Signal Indicator LightsWhen you push the turn signal lever up beforemaking a right turn, the right side arrow on theinstrument panel flashes.

When you push the turn signal lever down beforemaking a left turn, the left side arrow on theinstrument panel flashes.

Usually, the turn signals turn off automatically afteryou turn your vehicle. If the turn signal continuesto flash after you have made the turn, push thelever back to the OFF position.


17

If one or both of your turn indicators do not flashor stay on continuously, have them serviced as soonas possible. In the meantime, be sure to use theaccepted hand signals.

Speed Control Indicator LightThis light comes on when the speed control systemis actively maintaining the set speed. It will go offwhen the brakes are used or if the speed control isturned off.

This light does not indicate any problems but isonly a convenience to tell when the speed controlis active.

Fuel GaugeThe ignition switch must be in the OFF positionbefore adding fuel to the tank for proper gaugeoperation.

A problem is indicated if the fuel gauge bar graphdisplays only the top two bars and the bottom twobars and the digital “FUEL REMAIN” or “DIST TOEMPTY” display “CO” or “CS”. If this happens,contact your dealer for service as soon as possible.


18

The fuel gauge symbols indicate the remaining fuel:“F” means full, “1/2” means half-full and “E”means empty.

Low fuel alertWhen the fuel level drops to approximately 1/8 ofa tank, a flashing fuel pump symbol is displayed.

If you want to calculate fuel economy, use themessage center buttons instead of the fuel gauge bargraph indicator. It is likely to give you a muchmore accurate figure.

NOTE: At least 2.5 gallons (9.5 liters) of fuel mustbe added for the fuel gauge to immediately showthe next level of fuel. If less than 2.5 gallons (9.5liters) of fuel is added, the gauge will reach thenew level slowly.


19

Compass Display (If Equipped)The Compass can display direction indicated by N,S, E, W, NE, NW, SE and SW. The sensor for thecompass display is located on the back side of therear view mirror. The Compass can be set to one of15 geographic zones.

To set the ZONE, first locate the compass moduleon the center rear view mirror post. Press and holdthe reset button located on top of the compassmodule until the display in the message centerchanges to show the current zone setting (1-15).Release the reset button and press it agianrepeatedly until the current zone is displayed (seezone map). After 10 seconds the display will returnto normal. Your zone will then be updated.

The Compass is continually self-calibrating andshould not require calibration, however amanual-calibrating mode can be initiated.

NOTE: Compass calibration requires that thevehicle be driven 2-3 mph (3-5 km/h) in at leasttwo 360 degree circles. A safe location free ofvehicle and pedestrian traffic will be required. Tomanually calibrate the compass, locate the resetbutton on the top side of the compass module.Press and hold the reset button until the Compassdisplay indicates “CIRCLE SLOWLY”. Once thebutton has been released, slowly drive the vehiclein circles until the “CIRCLE SLOWLY” indicatordisappears. This may require several completecircles.


20

Zone map

Factors Affecting Compass AccuracyThe compass reading can be affected when youdrive near a number of things — such as largebuildings, bridges, power lines, and powerfulantennas.

Your compass can also be affected by magnetic ormetallic objects placed in or on the compass sensor(the sensor is loacated on the inside rearview mirrorbracket). If the compass is giving inaccuratereadings, perform the calibration procedure.

SpeedometerThe speedometer tells you how many miles(kilometers) per hour your vehicle is moving. Itindicates the speed up to 120 mph or up to199 km/h.

You can press the E/M (English/Metric) buttonlocated just below the message center display toshow the speed you are going in either miles perhour or kilometers per hour.


21

OdometerThe odometer tells you the total number of miles orkilometers your vehicle has been driven. If thecluster is replaced, and the accumulated mileage onthe odometer is unknown, the replacement clusterwill have the circled “S” illuminated with zeromiles on the odometer. If the actual vehicle mileagecan be verified, then an authorized service centercan program the actual mileage into the odometerof the replacement cluster. The actual mileage (ifknown) or an estimated mileage (if unknown) isshown on a label affixed on the door pillar.

Press the E/M (English/Metric) button located justbelow the message center display to show miles orkilometers.

If the odometer displays the word “ERROR” contactyour dealer for service.

The Electronic Message CenterAlong with information the warning lights andgauges provide, the electronic message center letsyou:

❑ see problems such as Door Ajar, Air Suspension,Trunk Ajar, Washer Fluid

❑ see how many miles/kilometers you can drivewith the fuel remaining in your tank

❑ see how many gallons/liters of fuel areremaining

❑ monitor your average fuel economy

❑ monitor your instantaneous fuel economy

❑ monitor your average speed

❑ check the distance you have travelled during atrip on either Trip A or Trip B

❑ check the distance remaining from a set valueduring a trip


22

All of the message center functions are controlledby the three switches located just below the radiocontrols in the center of the instrument panel.

❑ E/M — Changes the electronic instrumentcluster and the electronic temperature controldisplay to read in either English or Metric units.

❑ Reset — Sets the selected function to zero (ifresettable).

❑ Select — Selects the function. This is a dualaction switch, the right side advances functionto the right, the left side advances function tothe left.


23

How to use the message centerTo reset any function:

1. Push either the right or left side of the SELECTbutton to choose the function you would liketo set.

2. Push the RESET button and the selectedmessage center function will be reset to zero.(The only functions which can be reset to zeroare: AVG ECON, TRIP A or TRIP B, and AVGSPEED.)

What the message center functions canshow you

DIST TO EMPTY — Distance to Empty(DTE)


24

This function estimates how many miles orkilometers you can drive with the fuel remaining inyour tank under standard driving conditions.

Remember to turn off the ignition when filling upwith fuel. Otherwise, the display will not show theaddition of fuel for a few miles.

When you have approximately 50 miles (80 km)left before you run out of fuel, the DTE functionwill flash for five (5) seconds and sound a tone forone (1) second. The message center will remain inthe DTE function until you push the select buttonto change it. This low fuel warning also happens at25 miles (40 km), and 10 miles (16 km).

Displayed DTE will not be equal to AVG ECONmultiplied by the FUEL REMAIN value. This isbecause DTE is calculated using a method thattakes into consideration the fuel economy of thelast 500 miles (800 Km) driven.

NOTE: When refueling, at least 2.5 gallons (9.5litres) of fuel must be added for fuel gauge toimmediately show the next level of fuel.


25

If “CO” or “CS” is displayed, this means that thereis a problem with the fuel indication system andyou should contact your dealer for service as soonas possible.

FUEL REMAIN — Fuel Remaining

This function shows you how many gallons (liters)of fuel you have left in the fuel tank.

If your fuel level is above 20 gallons (75.7 liters),the letter “F” (full) will appear on the display. Butif your fuel level has dropped to below 1 gallon (4liters), the letter “E” (empty) will appear in thedisplay.

Because of factors like rounding of numbers andfuel movement in the tank, your fuel gauge and theservice station fuel pump readings may disagreeslightly.

A problem is indicated if the fuel gauge bar graphdisplays only the top two and bottom two bars andthe message center display for Distance To Emptyor Fuel Remaining functions display the letters“CO” or “CS”. If this happens, contact your dealerfor service as soon as possible.


26

FUEL ECON — Fuel Economy FunctionsThe FUEL ECON selection indicates two functions,Average Fuel Economy and Instantaneous FuelEconomy.

Average Economy is entered by pressing theSELECT> button from the DISTANCE TO EMPTYdisplay. This function is indicated by the AVGindicator being illuminated to the left of theMessage Center digital display.

Instantaneous Fuel Economy is displayed by pressingthe SELECT> button again from the AverageEconomy display and is indicated by INST beingilluminated replacing AVG.


27

AVG ECON — Average Fuel EconomySelect this function to display your average fueleconomy in miles per gallon or liters per 100kilometers. Your message center computes thisfigure using the distance traveled and fuel usedinformation. If you want to reset this function, pressthe RESET button while the average fuel economyfeature is displayed.

If you calculate your average fuel economy bydividing miles traveled by gallons used, your figuremay be different than displayed because of:

❑ Your vehicle not being perfectly level duringfill-up

❑ Differences in the automatic shut-off points onthe fuel pumps at service stations

❑ Variations in top-off procedure from one fill-upto another

❑ Rounding of the displayed values to the nearest0.1 gallon (liters) on the fuel gauge.


28

INST ECON — Instantaneous FuelEconomySelect this function to calculate your instantaneousfuel economy. Your instantaneous fuel economy isthe fuel economy you get at any particular moment.For example, you can see what your fuel economyis in heavy traffic or on an open highway.

Your vehicle must be moving to calculate fueleconomy. When your vehicle is not moving,instantaneous fuel economy is displayed at 0 milesper gallon or 99 liters per 100 kilometers. Whenyou are moving, the display may read anythingbetween 0 and 99 miles/gallon (1 to 99 L/km).Instantaneous fuel economy cannot be reset.


29

AVG SPEED — Average Speed Function

To use the Average Speed function, select AVGSPEED and press the RESET button. Your averagespeed from that point until you RESET again will bedisplayed.

TRIP A and TRIP B — Elapsed DistanceTraveledThese two functions of the message center allowyou to see how far you have traveled since you lastreset. Trip A and Trip B are completely independentand must be reset individually.

To reset either trip feature to zero, press the RESETswitch while a trip distance feature (Trip A or TripB) is displayed.

TRIP REMAIN — Trip RemainingOdometerThis function allows you to set a destinationdistance up to 999 miles or kilometers. This featurewill indicate when the preset distance has beenreached by sounding a tone for one (1) second andflashing “0.0” TRIP REMAIN for ten (10) secondsbefore returning to the original display.


30

The Trip Remaining distance is set by first selectingthe TRIP REMAIN indicator then pressing theRESET button at which point the HUNDREDS(100’s) digit will be flashing. To set the 100’s digit,press the <SELECT button until the desired value isreached then press SELECT> to go to the TENS(10’s) digit. Repeat the same procedure for theONES. Press the RESET button to set the value youselected and return to the regular display.

Check Air Suspension LightThis light glows momentarily when the ignition isturned to the ON position. With the ignition onthis light will remain on to indicate that the air

suspension switch (located in the trunk on the rightside) is off or to indicate a possible system fault.

If the light is displayed while driving and the airsuspension switch is not turned off, safely pull offthe road as soon as possible. Turn the ignitionswitch from ON to OFF and to ON again. If thelight continues to be displayed after flashing five (5)times, turn the air suspension switch (located in thetrunk on the right side) off and take your vehicle toa dealership for service as soon as possible.


31

Overdrive Off IndicatorThis light tells you that the Transmission ControlSwitch (TCS) has been pushed. When the light ison, the transmission will not shift into overdrive.Depressing the button will return the vehicle to“overdrive on” mode. The transmission will be inthe “overdrive on” mode when the vehicle isstarted even if the O/D OFF mode was selectedwhen the vehicle was last shut off.

If the light does not come ON when the TCSis depressed or if the light FLASHES when youare driving, have your vehicle serviced at thefirst opportunity. If this condition persists,damage could occur to the transmission.

Low Washer Fluid LightThis light comes on when there is less than aquarter of the container of washer fluid left. Withthe ignition ON this light will flash five (5) timesand a tone will sound for one (1) second, and thenthe light will remain on.

Door Ajar LightIf one of the doors is not completely shut, this lightcomes on when you turn the ignition to ON. Withthe ignition on this light will flash five (5) timesand sound a tone for one (1) second, and then thelight will remain on.


32

Trunk Ajar LightIf the trunk is not completely closed, this lightcomes on when you turn the ignition to ON. Withthe ignition ON this light will flash five (5) timesand sound a tone for one (1) second, and then thelight will remain on.

Chime for Headlamps OnThis chime sounds if the driver or any passengerdoor is open when the parking lamps or headlampsare on. The chime sounds until you close the door,turn off the lamps or turn the ignition to the ONposition.


33

Electronic Sound Systems

Luxury Audio System (Analog)

File:04fnast.exUpdate:Thu Jun 20 15:13:21 1996

34

Luxury Audio System (Digital)


35

Luxury Audio SystemUsing the Controls on Your New Radio

How to turn the radio on and offPress the “VOL/PUSH ON” knob to turn the radioon. Press again to turn it off.

How to adjust the volumeTurn the “VOL/PUSH ON” knob clockwise toincrease the volume and counter-clockwise todecrease the volume.

Volume may also be controlled by the RedundantControl Switch located on your steering wheel (ifequipped). Press A on the “VOL” button toincrease the volume and B on the “VOL” buttonto decrease the volume.

NOTE: If the volume is set above a certain levelwhen the ignition is turned off, the volume levelwill reset to a “nominal” listening level when theignition switch is turned back on. However, if theradio is turned off with the “VOL/PUSH ON” knob,the volume will not reset and will stay at the samelevel when the radio is turned back on.

Selecting the AM or FM frequency bandPush the “AM” or “FM1/FM2” button to select thedesired frequency band. Pushing the “FM1/FM2”button more than once will alternate between FM1and FM2. These functions are used with thememory preset buttons described under How totune radio stations.

You may also select AM, FM1 or FM2 bydepressing the “BAND” button located on theRedundant Control Switch on your steering wheel(if equipped).


36

How to tune radio stationsThere are four ways for you to tune in a particularstation. You can use the “TUNE”, “SEEK”, “SCAN”or memory buttons.

❑ Using the “TUNE” function

You can change the frequency up or down oneincrement at a time by pressing and releasing eitherthe left b or right a side of the “TUNE” or“TUNE DISCS” button. To change frequenciesquickly, press and hold down either the right or leftside of the button.

Manual tuning adjusts your radio to any allowablebroadcast frequency, whether or not a station ispresent on that frequency. (See All About RadioFrequencies in this section.)

❑ Using the “SEEK” function

Press the right a side of the “SEEK” button toselect the next listenable station up the frequencyband. Press the left b side of the button to selectthe next listenable station down the frequencyband. By holding the button down, listenablestations can be passed over to reach the desiredstation.

❑ Using the “SCAN” function

Pressing the “SCAN” button will begin the scanmode up the frequency band, stopping on eachlistenable station for approximately five seconds.

To stop the scan mode on the presently sampledstation, press the “SCAN” button again.

❑ Setting the station MEMORY PRESET buttons

Your radio is equipped with 6 station memorybuttons. These buttons can be used to select upto 6 preset AM stations and 12 FM stations (6in FM1 and 6 in FM2)


37

1. Select a band, then select a frequency.

2. Press one of the memory buttons and holduntil the sound returns and the lamp above thememory button lights up. That memory buttonis now set.

3. Follow the above steps for each memory presetbutton.

Using the Automatic Memory Store feature(“AUTOSET”)If the memory buttons have been set, either byusing the Auto Memory Load feature or if you haveset them manually, the system is prepared to letyou use a convenient feature called AutomaticMemory Store.

With Auto Memory Store, you can continually setstrong stations into your memory buttons withoutlosing your originally set stations. Your radio willautomatically set your memory buttons to the stronglocal stations.

Activate Auto Memory Store by pushing the“AUTOSET” button once. Your radio will set thefirst six strong stations of the band you are in (AM,FM1 or FM2) into the memory buttons. The displaywill flash “AUTO” and display the autoset icon “A”while the stations are being set in the memorybuttons.

NOTE: If there are less than six strong stations inthe frequency band, the remaining unfilled buttonswill store the last strong station detected on theband. After all stations have been filled, the radiowill begin playing the station stored on memorybutton 1.

To deactivate the Auto Memory Store mode andreturn to the manually-set memory button stations,simply push the “AUTOSET” button. Display willshow “AUTO” then “OFF”. The next time AutoMemory Store is activated on that band, the radiowill store the next set of six strong stations.


38

Adjusting the tone balance of your radio

❑ Increasing or decreasing bass and trebleresponse

Push the “BASS/TREB” popout knob to gain accessto the bass and treble controls. Bass control allowsyou to adjust the lower, bass frequencies to yourpreference. The outer ring of the “BASS/TREB”knob adjusts the bass (turn clockwise to increasebass; counterclockwise to decrease bass).

Treble control allows you to adjust the higher,treble frequencies of your radio to your preference.The inner ring of the “BASS/TREB” knob adjuststhe treble (turn clockwise to increase treble;counterclockwise to decrease treble).

❑ Adjusting speaker balance and speaker fader

Push the “BAL/FADE” popout knob to gain accessto the speaker balance and fader controls. Balancecontrol allows you to adjust the sound distributionbetween the right and left speakers. The outer ringof “BAL/FADE” knob adjusts the speaker balancecontrol. (Turn clockwise to shift the sound to theright speakers, and turn counterclockwise to shiftthe sound to the left speakers.)

Fade control allows you to adjust the sounddistribution between the front and rear speakers.The inner ring of the “BAL/FADE” knob adjusts thespeaker fader. (Turn clockwise to shift the sound tothe rear speakers, and turn counterclockwise to shiftthe sound to the front speakers.)


39

Using the Digital Signal Processing(DSP) FeaturePush the “(aDSPb)” button to activate thefeature. The display will indicate which signal modeis in effect. To change the signal mode press eitherthe left (b) or right (a) side of the selectorbutton (located under the “(aDSPb)” button).

The following signal modes may be selected:

1. “HALL” — Rectangular concert hall capacity ofabout 2,000.

2. “CHURCH” — Church with a high vault.

3. “JAZZ” — Jazz club with clearly reflectedsounds.

4. “STADIUM” — Outdoor stadium with acapacity of about 30,000.

5. “NEWS” — “Voice-only” type of sound with alimited audio band.

To deactivate the DSP feature, press the“(aDSPb)” button again.

Delayed Accessory Feature(If Equipped)If the ignition is turned off while the radio is on,the radio will continue to play for up to tenminutes or until a door is opened.

Speaker LocationsThe Premium Analog system is equipped with fourspeakers: one in each of the front doors and two inthe package tray.

The Ford JBL sound system is equipped with a totalof nine speakers: two in each of the front doors andfour in the package tray along with one subwooferspeaker in the package tray.


40

Your AntennaAntennas for both AM and FM reception are hiddenin the back glass of your vehicle. There is aninternal antenna module that will switch betweenAM and FM, when bands are changed, formaximum reception performance.

NOTE: Do not attempt to adapt any other type ofantenna system to your audio system.

Using the Controls of Your CassetteTape PlayerNOTE: Radio power must be on to use the cassettetape player.

How to insert a tapeYour cassette tape player is equipped with powerloading. Once you insert a tape and push slightly(with the open edge to the right), the loadingmechanism draws the tape the rest of the way in

and play will begin after a momentary tapetightening process. Display indicates “TAPE” whiletape is playing.

If the player is in the tape mode but not in play,pressing the “TAPE” button will activate play. If the“TAPE” button is pressed with no tape inserted, thedisplay will flash “NO TAPE”.

How to locate a desired track on the tapeThere are six ways to quickly locate a desiredselection on the tape. You can use the fast forward,rewind, Blank Skip, “SEEK”, “SCAN” or “SIDE 1-2”functions. Following are brief descriptions of each:

❑ Fast forwarding the tape

To fast forward the tape, press the “FF” button.The radio will play while the tape is in fastforward. The light above the “FF” button will blinkwhile in the fast forward mode. Press “FF” again orpress the “TAPE” button to stop fast forwarding. Atthe end of the tape, the direction automaticallyreverses and plays the other side of the tape.


41

❑ Rewinding the tape

To rewind the tape, press the “REW” button. Theradio will automatically begin playing while the tapeis rewinding. The light above the “REW” buttonwill blink while in the rewind mode. Press “REW”again or press the “TAPE” button to stoprewinding.

❑ Using the “SEEK” function with your cassettetape player

While in the tape mode, push the right a side ofthe “SEEK” button to seek forward to the nextselection on the tape. Push the left b side torestart a currently playing tape selection.

❑ Using the “Blank Skip” function with yourcassette tape player

Press the “Blank Skip” button to activate the blankskip mode. After approximately 20 seconds of blankprogram, the tape will seek forward to the nextprogram.

❑ Using the “SCAN” function with your cassettetape player

Pushing the “SCAN” button will begin the forwardscan mode on the tape currently playing, stoppingon each tape selection for approximately eightseconds.

To stop the scan mode on the presently sampledtape selection, press the “SCAN” button or the“TAPE” button.

❑ How to change the side of the tape beingplayed

The alternate side of the tape can be selected bypressing the “SIDE 1-2” button.


42

How to eject the tapeTo stop the tape and eject the cassette, press the“EJECT” button. The tape will eject only when inthe tape mode. The cassette cannot be ejectedwhen the radio is playing an “AM” or “FM”station. The system will revert to radio mode whenthe cassette is ejected.

How to store the tapePress the “AM”, “FM1/FM2”, or the “BAND”button located on the Redundant Control switch onyour steering wheel (if equipped) while a tape isloaded.

Using the DolbyH B noise reductionfeatureNOTE: Noise reduction system manufactured underlicense from Dolby Labs Licensing Corporation.“Dolby” and double-D symbol are trademarks ofDolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.

Push the k button to activate. When activated,the light above the k button will be illuminated.

Tape error messagesYour cassette tape player is equipped to diagnosecertain problems you may experience. Error codesare as follows:

TD E1 — Radio tries to change sides of tape 3times in a 10 second span. Push “EJECT” and tryanother tape. If problem persists, refer problem toqualified personnel for service.

TD E2 — Tape eject failure. Radio tries to ejecttape and it will not eject. Push “EJECT” to ejecttape. If the tape will not eject, refer problem toqualified personnel for service.

TD E3 — Loading error. Push “EJECT” to ejecttape. Reload tape. If the same error code appears inthe display, try another tape.


43

Tips on Caring for the Cassette Playerand TapesIn order to keep your cassette tape playerperforming the way it was meant to, read andfollow these simple precautions:

❑ Using a Ford Cassette Cleaning Cartridge orequivalent to clean the tape player head after10-12 hours of play will help maintain the bestplayback sound and proper tape operation.

❑ Only cassettes that are 90 minutes long or lessshould be used. Tapes longer than 90 minutesare thinner and subject to breakage or may jamthe tape player mechanism.

❑ Protect cassettes from exposure to directsunlight, high humidity and extreme heat orcold. If they are exposed to extreme conditions,allow them to reach a moderate temperaturebefore playing.

❑ If a tape is loose inside the cassette, tighten itbefore playing by putting your finger or a pencilinto one of the holes and turning the hub untilthe tape is tight.

❑ Loose labels on cassette tapes can becomelodged in the mechanism. Remove any looselabel material before inserting a cassette.

❑ Do not leave a tape in the cassette tape playerwhen not in use. High heat in the vehicle cancause the cassette to warp.


44

Ford 10-CD Changer(If Equipped)IntroductionThe 10-CD Changer Unit is mounted in the trunk(10-disc capacity) and is remotely controlled throughthe controls of your Luxury Audio System.

Be sure to read all of the information provided onthe following pages to get the most out of thissystem.

Loading Instructions1. Open Compact Disc Changer unit by sliding

door to the right (Figure 1).

Figure 1


45

2. Push EJECT button to eject the disc“magazine” (which holds 10 discs) (Figure 2).

Figure 2

3. Load discs into disc magazine slots (numbered1 through 10) one at a time with labeledsurfaces upward, starting with bottom slotnumber 1 (Figure 3).

Figure 3


46

4. Insert loaded disc magazine into chamber unitwith the arrow on top of the disc magazinepointing toward the changer (Figure 4). Makesure magazine is fully inserted into changer.

Figure 4

NOTE: To remove one or more compact disc(s)from the disc magazine, push the correspondinglever(s) (numbered 1 to 10 on the side of the discmagazine) to the left. Disc(s) will partially come outfor easy removal.

5. Close unit by sliding changer panel door to theleft.

The Compact Disc Changer unit is now ready toplay using the controls of your Luxury AudioSystem.

How to Operate the Ford 10-CDChanger Using the Controls on theRadioIf your vehicle is equipped with the Ford 10-CDChanger System, you can operate it through thecontrols of your Luxury Audio System.

Several of the controls on the radio operate in thesame manner in CD mode as they do in radio orcassette mode: turning the power on, volumecontrol and adjusting the bass, treble, speakerbalance or fade.


47

How to begin CD Changer playNOTE: Radio power must be on to operate theCompact Disc Changer.

Push the “CD” button to begin CD play. The10-CD Changer will automatically begin playing thefirst track (selection) of the first disc loaded in theunit. The display will indicate CD-## for discnumber and TRK-## for track number.

How to change the disc being playedWhen in the CD mode, you can change discs bypressing the “TUNE DISCS” button. Play will beginon the first track of the selected disc.

Pressing the right (a) side of the button will selectthe next disc. Pressing the left (b) side of thebutton will select the previous disc.

If either button is pressed and held, the CDChanger will continue fast-forwarding or reversingthrough the discs in the disc magazine. Duringthese functions, the display will indicate the discnumber.

How to change the track being playedPress the right (a) side of the “SEEK” button toseek forward to the next track of current disc. Ifthe button is held and the last track is reached, thedisc changer will automatically begin playing thelast track of the current disc. After the last trackhas been completed, the disc changer advances tothe next disc and begins play of track 1. Thedisplay indicates the track number while seeking.

Press the left (b) side of the “SEEK” button toseek in reverse to the previous track on the currentdisc.

Pressing the “FF” button will fast forward throughthe current track. Pressing the “REW” button willrewind through the current track.


48

Operating the CD Compression featureThe compression feature will bring soft and loudpassages closer together for a more consistentlistening level.

To turn the compression on, press the light abovethe “ k COMP” button. When on, the “kCOMP” button will illuminate. Press the buttonagain to turn off.

Operating the Shuffle featureThe shuffle feature on your CD player allows you tolisten to your disc selections in a different order.When this feature is activated, your CD player willrandomly select and play tracks on the disc.

Press the “SHUFFLE” button to turn on, press itagain to turn off. When on, the light above the“SHUFFLE” button will illuminate.

Operating the “SCAN” functionPress the “SCAN” button to enter the scan mode.The CD player will begin scanning the disc,stopping on each listenable track for approximatelyan eight second sampling. This continues until youpress the “SCAN” button a second time.

Operating the Shuffle and Scan featuressimultaneouslyBoth the shuffle and scan features can be activatedsimultaneously. In this mode, the player willrandomly pick a selection and play the first eightseconds. This process is continued until either the“SCAN” button or “SHUFFLE” button is pressed asecond time.


49

How to stop CD playWhile in the CD Changer mode, press either the“AM” or “FM1/FM2” button to stop CD play andresume radio play. Also, loading a cassette into thecassette deck or pressing the “TAPE” button withtape already loaded will stop CD play and begincassette play.

How to take care of and clean the CDChanger and discsTo ensure the continued performance of your CDChanger, carefully read the following precautions:

❑ Always handle a disc by the edge. Never touchthe playing surface.

❑ Before playing, inspect all discs for anycontamination. If needed, clean discs with anapproved disc cleaner, such as the DiscwasherHCompact Disc Cleaner or the Allsop 3HCompact Disc Cleaner, by wiping from thecenter out to the edges. Do not use a circularmotion to clean.

❑ Do not clean discs with solvents such asbenzine, thinner, commercially available cleanersor antistatic spray intended for analog records.

❑ Do not expose the discs to direct sunlight orheat sources for an extended period of time.

❑ Do not insert more than one disc into each discslot of the disc magazine. Doing so may damagethe discs, disc magazine or the disc changer.

❑ Do not insert anything other than discs into thedisc magazine.

WARNING

The laser beam used in the compactdisc player is harmful to the eyes. Donot attempt to disassemble the case.


50

CD Error MessagesYour system is equipped to diagnose certainproblems you may experience. The error codes are:

— CD E1 — Mechanism error.

— CD E2 — Focus error.

— BAD CD — Disc unreadable.

— TOO HOT — Mechanism over 167˚ Farenheit(75˚C), allow to cool before playing.

— NO CD — Empty slot or magazine.

— NO DJ — CD Changer not connected or notcommunicating.

Common Operating Conditions of theCD PlayerThe following information is designed to help yourecognize typical situations that could be mistakenlyinterpreted as mechanical malfunctions of the discplayer.

❑ A disc is already loaded.

❑ The disc is inserted with the label surfacedownward.

❑ The disc is dusty or defective.

❑ The player’s internal temperature is above167˚F (75˚C). Allow the player to cool offbefore operating.

❑ Different manufacturers of compact discs mayproduce discs with different dimensions ortolerances, some of which may not be withinindustry standards or in accordance with theCD format. Because of this, a new disc that isfree of dust and scratches could be defectiveand may not play on your Ford Compact DiscPlayer.


51

If play does not begin after the CD button ispushed:

❑ The radio is not on.

❑ The unit is in the stop mode.

❑ Moisture may have condensed on the lenseswithin the unit. If this occurs, remove the discand wait approximately an hour until themoisture evaporates.

If the sound skips:

❑ Badly scratched discs or extremely rough roadswill cause the sound to skip. Skipping will notdamage the disc player or scratch the discs.

Common Radio ReceptionConditionsSeveral conditions prevent FM reception from beingcompletely clear and noise-free, such as thefollowing:

Distance/StrengthThe strength of the FM signal is directly related tothe distance the signal must travel. The listenablerange of an average FM signal is approximately 24miles (40 km). Beyond this distance, the radio isoperating in a “fringe” area and the signal becomesweaker. Also, “Signal Modulation” is used by somestations to increase their “loudness” relative to otherstations. The difference in loudness can be a resultof signal modulation as well as signal strength.

TerrainThe terrain (hilly, mountainous, tall buildings) of thearea over which the signal travels may prevent theFM signal from being noise-free.

If there is a building or large structure between theantenna and station, some of the signal “bends”around the building, but certain spots receive almostno signal. Moving out of the “shadow” of thestructure will allow the station to return to normal.


52

When the radio waves are reflected off objects orstructures, the reflected signal cancels the normalsignal, causing the antenna to pick up noise anddistortion. Cancellation effects are most prominentin metropolitan areas, but also can become quitesevere in hilly terrain and depressed roadways.

To minimize these conditions, a stereo/mono blendcircuit has been incorporated into this system. Thisfeature automatically switches a weak stereo signalto a clearer monaural signal, which improves thequality of reception.

Several sources of static are normal conditions onAM frequencies. These can be caused by powerlines, electric fences, traffic lights andthunderstorms.

Another reception phenomenon is Strong SignalCapture and Overload. This can occur whenlistening to a weak station and when passinganother broadcast tower. The close station maycapture the more distant station, although the

displayed frequency does not change. While passingthe tower, the station may switch back and forth afew times before returning to the original station.

When several broadcast towers are present(common in metropolitan areas), several stationsmay overload the receiver, resulting in considerablestation changing, mixing and distortion.

Automatic gain control circuitry for both AM andFM bands has been incorporated into this system toreduce strong signal capture and overload.

All About Radio FrequenciesThe Federal Communications Commission (FCC)and the Canadian Radio TelecommunicationsCommission (CRTC) establish the frequencies thatAM and FM radio stations may use for theirbroadcasts. The allowable frequencies are, AM: 530,540...1600, 1610 kHz in 10 kHz steps; FM: 87.9,88.1...107.7, 107.9 MHz in 0.2 MHz steps.


53

Not all frequencies will be assigned to a given area.This radio will tune to each of these frequenciesusing manual tune and no fine tuning is necessaryas radio stations may not use other frequencies.

Some FM radio stations advertise a “rounded-off”frequency which is not the frequency they actuallybroadcast on. For example, a radio station that isassigned a frequency of 98.7 MHz may call itself“Radio 99” even though 99.0 MHz is not anallowable FM broadcast frequency.

Important Warranty and ServiceInformationAbout Your WarrantyYour sound system is warranted for four years or50,000 miles (whichever occurs first). Consult yourvehicle warranty booklet for further information.

Servicing Your Audio SystemAt Ford, we stand behind our audio systems with acomprehensive service and repair program. Ifanything should go wrong with your Ford audiosystem, return to your dealer for service. There is anationwide network of qualified Ford authorizedrepair centers to assist you.


55

Controls and Features

The Climate Control SystemElectronic Automatic TemperatureControl SystemThe Electronic Automatic Temperature Control(EATC) module is located at the center of theinstrument panel and operates only when the key isin the ON position.

The EATC feature maintains the temperature youselect and automatically controls the airflow foryour comfort. It also allows you to override theautomatic operation with manual override buttons.

File:05fncft.exUpdate:Mon Jun 17 13:49:49 1996

56

The controls for the automatic electronicclimate control

To turn your EATC on, push the AUTOMATICbutton or any of the six override buttons along thebottom of the control.

To turn your EATC off, press the OFF button.When the system is off, the display window will beblank (dark) except when OUTSIDE TEMP hasbeen selected. Then, OUTSIDE TEMP and thetemperature will appear in the window.

If you select AUTOMATIC, the system willautomatically determine fan speed and airflowlocation. If an override button is selected, yourselection determines airflow location only. Fanspeed remains automatic unless you override it byrotating the vertical thumbwheel located at theextreme right of the control panel.

To change the temperature in the display window,select any temperature between 65˚F (18˚C) and85˚F (29˚C) using the BLUE (cooler) or RED(warmer) buttons. The Electronic AutomaticTemperature Control will do the rest.


57

If you want continuous maximum cooling, push theBLUE button until 60˚F (16˚C) is shown in thedisplay window. Your EATC will cool at maximumand disregard the 60˚F (16˚C) setting until youselect a warmer temperature with the RED button.If you want continuous maximum heating, push theRED button until 90˚F (32˚C) is shown in thedisplay window. Your EATC will provide maximumheat regardless of the 90˚F (32˚C) setting until youselect a cooler temperature with the BLUE button.

The display window tells you how the system isoperating. It will indicate the selected temperatureand the operating function you have chosen; AUTOor one of the six manual overrides. It will alsoindicate manual (thumbwheel) control of the fanspeed with the H symbol. The display windowwith all possible displays and their positions areshown here. Normally not all are shown at thesame time but are included here to familiarize youwith the names and symbols.

Automatic operationPush the AUTOMATIC button and select thedesired temperature. The selected temperature andAUTO will be shown in the display window. TheEATC will automatically heat or cool to achieve theset temperature. Under normal conditions, yourEATC will need no additional attention.

The AUTO temperature display


58

When in AUTOMATIC and weather conditionsrequire heat, air will be sent to the floor. But, afeature is included in your EATC to preventblowing cold air to the floor if the engine coolant isnot warm enough to allow heating. For a shorttime the fan will be at low speed and air directedto the windshield. In 3-1/2 minutes or less, the fanspeed will start to increase and the airflow willchange to the floor area.

If unusual conditions exist (i.e., window fogging,etc.), the six manual override buttons allow you toselect special air discharge locations. A thumbwheelallows you to adjust the fan speed to suit yourneeds.

Temperature selectionThe RED and BLUE buttons at the upper left of theControl are for temperature selection. The REDbutton will increase the set temperature and theBLUE button will lower the set temperature.Pressing a button and releasing it will change theset temperature one degree. Holding either buttonin will rapidly change the temperature setting inone degree increments to either 65˚F (18˚C)(BLUE) or 85˚F (29˚C)(RED). Then, the settemperature will jump 5˚ and stop at either 60˚F(16˚C) which is maximum cooling or 90˚F (32˚C)which is maximum heating.

The average temperature range used is between68˚F (20˚C) and 78˚F (26˚C). Changing thetemperature setting by several degrees outside thisrange or overriding to 60˚F (16˚C) or 90˚F (32˚C)will not speed up the heating or cooling process.


59

Temperature displayThe selected temperature displayed in the windowcan be set for either ˚F or ˚C. Your car may havean English/Metric (E/M) Button to change yourspeedometer from miles to kilometers. Whenpressed, this button also changes the temperaturedisplay. With or without an E/M Button, thetemperature display can also be changed to ˚F or˚C using the MAX A/C and DEFrost overridebuttons.


60

To change the temperature display to ˚F or ˚C,press and hold the MAX A/C and DEF Buttons atthe same time for 3/4 second. The display willchange. If you continue to press the two buttons,the display will continuously switch between ˚F and˚C. If the temperature display does not agree withthe speedometer on vehicles with an E/M button,pressing the E/M button will make them agree.

Fan speed and thumbwheelYour EATC automatically adjusts the fan speed tothe existing conditions. You must pushAUTOMATIC for automatic fan speed operation. Tocontrol the fan speed yourself, use the thumbwheelwhich will cancel the automatic fan speed control.The thumbwheel is located at the extreme rightside of the EATC control panel. It is a verticalcontrol marked with a fan symbol. Rotate up for HIand down for LO speeds.


61

When you move the thumbwheel, the fan speedwill go to manual control. The display window willshow the H symbol in the upper left corner alongwith the selected temperature and operatingfunction.

You can override the fan speed at any time. If youuse the thumbwheel to override the fan speed, theEATC will continue to control the temperature butyou control the fan speed. To return to auto fancontrol, press the AUTOMATIC button. If you areoperating in one of the override functions (FLOOR,


62

MAX A/C, etc.), automatic fan control willcontinue unless you rotate the fan thumbwheel. Toreturn to automatic fan control, press theAUTOMATIC button. The EATC will return toAutomatic operation. If you want to return to anyoverride function, press the button for that function.The fan speed will continue to be automaticallycontrolled.

Steering wheel remote control buttonsSome cars have control buttons to the right side ofthe center of the steering wheel which allow you tocontrol some radio and climate control features.Refer to the Steering Column Controls chapter laterin this owner guide for further information.

Manual override buttonsYour EATC has six buttons which allow you tomake special selections. The buttons are locatedalong the bottom edge of the EATC control andallow you to determine where the air will bedischarged. Pressing any override button changes

the air discharge location only. It does not affectthe ability of the system to control temperature orthe fan speed. Return to fully Automatic operationby pushing the AUTOMATIC button.

MAX A/C button

The MAX A/C feature allows for faster coolingbecause air is drawn from inside the vehicle. Usinginside air causes the fan to sound louder which isnormal for this selection. The Display window willchange to indicate 60˚F (16˚C) and MAX A/C. Thefan will run and the airflow will be from theinstrument panel registers. To exit and return to theprevious temperature, push AUTOMATIC or any ofthe other five override buttons.

NORM A/C button

When you push this button, you select airconditioning using outside air. The Display windowwill indicate A/C under the selected temperature.The cooled air will flow from the instrument panelregisters. The fan speed will continue on automatic.


63

VENT button

Push this button to select outside air through theinstrument panel registers. The display window willshow the set temperature and VENT to the lowerright of the temperature. Your EATC will heat theair if the temperature you have selected is warmerthan the outside air coming into the vehicle.However, the air will NOT be cooled regardless ofthe temperature setting.

FLOOR button

Airflow will be to the floor when the FLOORbutton is pressed. The display window will showthe set temperature and FLR to the left of thetemperature. The air cannot be cooled in the FLRposition, only heated. Fan speed will be automaticunless manually controlled. If you override the fanspeed and wish to return to automatic fan control,push AUTOMATIC. Then, again select FLOOR forairflow to the floor.

FLR & DEF button

Push this button to get air to the floor andwindshield defrosters at the same time. The displaywill show the set temperature, FLR and the Defrostsymbol. If the outside temperature is about 50˚F(10˚C) and above, the air will be dehumidified toremove moisture. This will help to prevent foggingin humid weather.

DEF button

Press the Defrost Button to obtain maximum airflowto the windshield. Adjust the temperature setting asrequired for defrosting. The Display window willshow the temperature setting with the Defrostsymbol to the left of the temperature. When theoutside temperature is about 50˚F (10˚C) andabove, the air will be dehumidified to removemoisture. This will help prevent fogging in humidweather.


64

OUTSIDE TEMP button

By pressing this button the temperature of the airoutside of the vehicle will show in the display. Theoutside temperature will continue to be displayeduntil the OUTSIDE TEMP button is pressed againto cancel. If the selected temperature setting ischanged while the outside temperature is displayed,the new selected temperature will be displayed for4 seconds after it is changed. Then, the outsidetemperature will return to the window. If a manualoverride is pressed or the thumbwheel is rotatedwhile the outside temperature is displayed, thewindow will show the change for 4 seconds. Then,the outside temperature will return along with thechanged override selection. If the EATC is turned OFF while the outside

temperature is displayed, the temperature willcontinue to be displayed. Press the OUTSIDE TEMPbutton to clear the display window. When theignition key is turned OFF the display will be blank(dark).


65

NOTE: The outside temperature reading is mostaccurate when the vehicle is moving. Higherreadings may be obtained when the vehicle is notmoving. The readings that you get may not agreewith temperatures given on the radio due todifferences in vehicle and station locations.

Operating tipsThe following tips will help you to get the mostsatisfaction from your Electronic AutomaticTemperature Control system.

❑ In humid weather, select DEF V beforestarting your engine. This will help to preventwindshield fogging. After a few minutes ofoperation, switch to AUTOMATIC or anoverride selection of your choice.

❑ To prevent humidity buildup inside yourvehicle, always drive with the EATC Systemturned on.

❑ Do not put objects under the front seats thatinterfere with the flow of air to the back seatarea.

❑ Remove any snow, ice, or leaves from the airintake area of your EATC System which couldblock the air intake. The intake area is locatedat the bottom of the windshield, under thehood at the passenger side rear corner.

ServiceIf your EATC is not operating as described here,take it to your dealer to have it checked. Systemdiagnostics are built in which will allow your dealerto readily identify problems that might occur.


66

Rear Window Defroster andHeated Sideview MirrorsThe rear window and heated outside mirrorsdefroster switch activates the defroster for the rearwindow to clear frost, fog, or thin ice from boththe inside and outside of the rear window andactivates the heated outside rearview mirrors.

The switch for the rear window defroster andheated outside rearview mirrors is located to the leftof the climate control.

The switch that controls the rear windowdefroster and heated outside rearview mirrors

Before using the defroster, clear away any snowthat is on the rear window and outside rearviewmirrors. With the engine running, push thedefroster button.


67

After approximately 10 minutes, the defroster willturn off. If the window or mirrors are still not clear,turn the defroster on again.

The defroster will turn off when the ignition key isturned to the OFF or START position.

The heating elements are bonded to the inside ofthe rear window. Do not use sharp objects toscrape the inside of the rear window or useabrasive cleaners to clean it. Doing so could damagethe heating elements.

3-Way Steering Assist Switch(If Equipped)Your Town Car is equipped with a speed sensitivesteering system that changes steering effort withvehicle speed. As the vehicle speed increases, thissystem automatically increases the steering effort(i.e., it takes more force to move the steeringwheel) to provide better road feel. At lower speedsthe steering effort is decreased, making it easier toperform turns or other slow speed maneuvers suchas parking.

3-way steering assist switch


68

The Interior and Exterior LightsDaytime Running Light System

(Canadian vehicles only)The Daytime Running Light (DRL) system isdesigned to turn the high beam headlamps on, witha reduced light output and without illuminating thehigh beam indicator lamp in the instrument panel.The DRL system operates when all of the followingconditions are met:

❑ The headlamp system is in the OFF position,and

❑ The vehicle is running, and

❑ The vehicle has a fully released parking brake.

NOTE: If you have a vehicle with an automaticlighting system, the DRL system is active until theautomatic system turns on the headlamps.

NOTE: You may notice that the lights flicker whenthe vehicle is turned on or off. This is a normalcondition.

WARNING

The Daytime Running Light (DRL)system will not illuminate the taillamps and parking lamps. Turn on yourheadlamps at dusk. Failure to do somay result in a collision.


69

Turning On the Exterior LightsTo turn on your headlamps, parking lamps, sidemarkers, license plate lamps and tail lamps, use thecontrol knob that is to the left of the steeringwheel.

The knob that operates the headlamps andparking lamps


70

To turn on the parking lamps, tail lamps, sidemarkers, and license plate lamps, turn the knobclockwise to the first position.

For more information about how the high beamswork, see the high beam section later in thischapter.

Setting the Autolamp On/Off DelaySystemBy using the autolamp, you can set the headlampsto:

❑ turn on the lamps automatically at night

❑ turn off the lamps automatically during daylight

❑ keep the lamps on for up to three minutes afteryou turn the key to OFF.

The controls for the autolamp

To use the autolamp:

1. Make sure the headlamp control is in the OFFposition. If the control for the headlamps isON, you cancel the autolamp.

2. Turn the ignition key to ON or start yourvehicle.


71

3. Rotate the headlamp switch counterclockwisefrom the OFF position.

4. The autolamp will automatically turn the lampson and off for you.

Do not put any articles on top of the photocell thatis located in the top left corner of the instrumentpanel. This photocell controls the autolamp. If youcover it, the photocell reacts as if it is nighttime,and the lamps turn on.

To turn the autolamp off, rotate the headlampswitch clockwise to the OFF position.

You can set the autolamp so the headlamps stay onfor up to three minutes after you turn your vehicleoff.

❑ The further you rotate the headlamp switchcounterclockwise, the longer the lamps will stayon after you leave your vehicle. Similarly, if yourotate the switch only slightly, the headlampsstay on for only a short time after you turnyour vehicle off.

Turning On Interior LightsTo turn on the interior lights, push the headlampswitch in.

Instrument Panel IlluminationWith the light knob in the parking lamps or theheadlamps position, you can brighten or dim thelights in the instrument panel with the rockerswitch.


72

The switch that controls the light on theinstrument panel illumination

Clock

The digital clock

1. To set the hour, press and hold the hourbutton. When the desired hour appears, releasethe button.

2. To set the minutes, press and hold the minutebutton. When the desired minute appears,release the button.


73

Ashtray and CupholderYour vehicle has an ashtray/cupholder mounted tothe lower center of the instrument panel.

To open the ashtray, pull out the bottom edge ofthe drawer until it stops.

To close, remove cup(s) and push drawer forwarduntil closed.

Power Point Electrical OutletThe power point outlet is located under theinstrument panel to the right of the ashtray. Thisoutlet should be used in place of the cigarettelighter for optional electrical accessories.

NOTE: Do not plug optional electrical accessoriesinto the cigarette lighter. Electrical system damagecould occur.

To access the outlet, pull the cap off.

IgnitionUnderstanding the Positions of theIgnition

The positions of the key in the ignition

ACC allows some of your vehicle’s electricalaccessories such as the radio and the windshieldwipers to operate while the engine is not running.


74

NOTE: Your vehicle is also equipped with anaccessory timer. This allows some of youraccessories to remain on for up to 10 minutes afterthe ignition is turned to the OFF position. Theaccessory timer is cancelled if any door is opened,the dimmer switch is used, or the ignition is turnedto the ON position.

The automatic transmission gearshift must be in P(Park) to move the key to the LOCK position.

LOCK locks the steering wheel. It also locks thegearshift lever.

LOCK is the only position that allows you toremove the key. The LOCK feature helps to protectyour vehicle from theft.

OFF allows you to shut off the engine and allaccessories without locking the steering wheel, orthe gearshift lever.

ON allows you to test your vehicle’s warning lightsto make sure they work before you start the engine.The key returns to the ON position once the engineis started and remains in this position while theengine runs.

START cranks the engine. Release the key once theengine starts so that you do not damage the starter.The key should return to ON when you release it.

Key SystemThe vehicle is equipped with a master key and valetkey lock system. The master key will actuate doors,trunk, glove box, ignition and remote trunk release.The valet key will actuate doors and ignition only.The valet key is marked “valet”.


75

Removing the Key From the Ignition1. Put the gearshift in P (Park).

2. Set the parking brake fully.

3. Turn the ignition key to LOCK.

4. Remove the key.

If the key is stuck in the LOCK position, move thesteering wheel left or right until the key turnsfreely.

If the driver’s door is open while the key is still inthe ignition, a warning chime sounds.

WARNING

Always set the parking brake fully andmake sure the gearshift is latched in P(Park). Turn off the ignition wheneveryou leave your vehicle.

WARNING

Do not leave children, unreliable adults,or pets unattended in your vehicle.

The Turn Signal LeverYou can use the turn signal lever on the left side ofthe steering column to:

❑ operate the turn signals and cornering lamps

❑ turn the high beams on/off

❑ flash the lights

❑ turn the windshield wipers and washer on/off


76

Turn SignalsMove the lever up to signal a right turn. Move itdown to signal a left turn. The correspondingindicator light in the instrument cluster will flash.

For lane changes, move the lever far enough tosignal but not to latch. The lever will return to theoff position when you release it.

When the turn signal is used when the headlampsare on, the cornering lamps will automatically lighton either the right or left side depending on thedirection of the turn.

High BeamsTo turn on the high beams, turn the headlampcontrol switch to the headlamp ON position (oractivate the autolamp feature) and push the turnsignal lever away from you until it latches. Whenthe high beams are ON, the high beam indicatorlight on the instrument cluster comes on.

To turn off the high beams, pull the lever towardyou until it latches. The high beam indicator lightturns off.

Flashing the LightsTo flash the headlamps, pull the lever toward youfor a moment and then release it. The headlampswill flash whether the headlamp knob is in the onor off position.


77

Windshield Wipers and WasherTo turn on the windshield wipers, the ignition keymust be turned to the ON or ACC position.

Rotate the knob towards “S” to activate the wipers.The first seven detents are interval wipe positions,the eighth detent is the LO position and the ninthdetent is the HI position.

To turn the wipers off, turn the knob to the OFFposition.

Variable Interval WipersIn addition to two speed wipers, your vehicle haswipers that you can set to operate at varyingintervals. For example, you can set the interval sothey wipe less often when it drizzles or more oftenin heavier rain.

To set the interval wipers, turn the knob at the endof the turn signal lever between “S” (slow) and “F”(fast) until the desired interval between wipes isachieved.


78

Windshield WasherTo clean the windshield, push in the end of thewiper knob. For a constant spray, keep the knobpushed in. After you release the knob, the wipersoperate for two to three cycles before turning off (ifthe wipers were OFF) or returning to HI, LO, orthe interval setting selected.

If the washer does not work, check the washerfluid level and fill it if it is low. See theMaintenance and Care chapter. If there is enoughfluid, consult your nearest Ford or Lincoln-Mercurydealer.

Do not try to clean the windshield when thewasher fluid container is empty or activate thewashers at any time for more than 15 secondscontinuously. This could damage the washer pumpsystem.

WARNING

Always warm up the windshield withthe defroster before you use the washerfluid. In freezing weather, the washersolution may freeze on the windshieldand obscure your vision.

For information about refilling the washer fluid orreplacing your windshield wiper blades, seeWindshield washer fluid and Wipers in the Index.

Hazard FlasherThe hazard flasher serves as a warning to otherdrivers to be careful when approaching or passingyour vehicle.


79

The control switch for the hazard flashers

HornTo sound the horn, push the center pad area of thesteering wheel.

The horn on the steering wheel — Executiveseries


80

The horn on the steering wheel — Signatureand Cartier series

Tilt Steering

WARNING

Never adjust the steering wheel whenthe vehicle is moving.


81

The lever to tilt the steering wheel

To change the position of the steering wheel, pullthe release lever on the column toward you. Tipthe steering wheel to the desired position. Releasethe lever to lock the steering wheel in place.

Speed ControlThe speed of the vehicle cannot be automaticallycontrolled until the vehicle speed is at or above 30mph (48 km/h).

Use of radio transmitting equipment that is notFederal Communications Commission (FCC) or inCanada the Canadian Radio andTelecommunications Commission (CRTC) approvedmay cause the speed control to malfunction.Therefore, use only properly installed FCC (CRTC inCanada) approved radio transmitting equipment inyour vehicle.

NOTE: Do not shift to N (Neutral) when using thespeed control. This will cause the engine tooverspeed.


82

The speed control switches on the steeringwheel — Executive series

The speed control switches on the steeringwheel — Signature and Cartier series


83

To Turn Speed Control Off

❑ Press OFF, OR

❑ Turn off the vehicle ignition.

Once speed control is switched off, the previouslyprogrammed set speed will be erased.

To Turn Speed Control On

❑ Press ON

To Set a SpeedPress SET ACCEL. For speed control to operate, thespeed control must be ON and the vehicle speedmust be greater than 30 mph (48 km/h).

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

Speed control cannot reduce the vehicle speed if itincreases above the set speed on a downhill. If yourvehicle speed is faster than the set speed while

driving on a downhill in j (Overdrive), you maywant to shift to the next lower gear to reduce yourvehicle’s speed.

If your vehicle slows down more than 10 mph(16 km/h) below your set speed on an uphill, yourspeed control will disengage. This is normal.Pressing RES (Resume) will re-engage it.

WARNING

To keep your vehicle under control, donot use speed control in heavy traffic oron roads that are winding, slippery, orunpaved.

To Set a Higher Set Speed

❑ Press and hold SET ACCEL. Release the switchwhen the desired vehicle speed is reached. OR

❑ Press and release SET ACCEL. Each press willincrease the set speed by 1 mph (1.6 km/h).OR


84

❑ Accelerate with your accelerator pedal, thenpress SET ACCEL.

You may accelerate with the accelerator pedal atany time during speed control usage. Releasing theaccelerator pedal will return your vehicle speed tothe previously programmed set speed.

To Set a Lower Set Speed

❑ Press and hold COAST. Release the switchwhen the desired vehicle speed is reached. OR

❑ Press and release COAST. Each press willdecrease the set speed by 1 mph (1.6 km/h).OR

❑ Depress the brake pedal. When the desiredvehicle speed is reached, press SET ACCEL.

To Disengage Speed Control

❑ Depress the brake pedal.

Disengaging the speed control will not erase thepreviously programmed set speed.

To Return to a Set Speed

❑ Press RES (RESUME). For RES (RESUME) tooperate, the vehicle speed must be faster than30 mph (48 km/h).

Indicator Light (If Equipped)Lights when either the SET ACCEL or RES(RESUME) switches are pressed and remains lighteduntil it is either disengaged or turned off.


85

Remote Control Buttons(If equipped)Your vehicle may be equipped with remote controlbuttons, located on the steering wheel, which allowyou to control some radio and climate controlfeatures.

The remote control buttons on the steeringwheel

Radio Control FeaturesWith the remote radio control features you are ableto:

❑ Select a preset station from memory by pressingthe “MEM” button.

❑ Select AM, FM1, or FM2 by pressing the“BAND” button.

❑ Adjust the volume to the desired level bypressing either the “VOL” up or “VOL” downbutton.

Climate Control FeaturesWith the remote climate control features you areable to:

❑ Adjust the temperature level by pressing the“TEMP” up or “TEMP” down button.

❑ Adjust the fan speed by pressing the “FAN” upor the “FAN” down button.


86

Turning On the LampsFront and Rear Courtesy/ReadingLampsYour vehicle is equipped with two courtesy/readinglamps located at the front-center and rear-center ofthe headliner (roof). The right lamps are for theright side passengers and the left lamps are for thedriver and rear left side passenger.

With the lens in the flat position, thecourtesy/reading lamp will illuminate when anydoor is opened or when the headlamp dimmer knobis rotated to the courtesy lamp position.

With the lens in the rotated position, thecourtesy/reading lamp will illuminate.


87

Moon Roof (If equipped)You can move the moon roof back to open theglass panel, or you can tilt it up to ventilate thevehicle.

The rocker type switch is used to open and closethe moon roof. You must press and hold the switchuntil the desired position is reached. At fully open,closed and intermediate positions, the motor willautomatically turn off. Release the switch at thistime to avoid motor damage.

The switch for the moon roof

To open the moon roof, press and hold the rearportion of the switch.

To close the moon roof, press and hold the frontportion of the switch.

To tilt the moon roof into vent position when theglass panel is closed, press the front portion of theswitch.


88

To close from vent position, press and hold the rearportion of the switch.

Occasionally wiping the outside guide rail covers ofthe moon roof with a clean cloth will help keep themoon roof working properly.

The moon roof

WARNING

Do not let children play with the moonroof. They may seriously hurtthemselves.

Sliding ShadeThe moon roof has a sliding shade that you canmanually open or close to block the sun when theglass panel is shut.

To close the sliding shade, pull the shade towardthe front of the vehicle. The shade automaticallyopens and locks when the moon roof is opened.


89

MirrorsAutomatic Dimming Inside RearviewMirror (If equipped)The electronic day/night mirror will change fromthe normal state to the non-glare state when brightlights (glare) reach the mirror. This mirror functionsat night, and has a limited function at dusk ordawn. From the non-glare state, the mirror willreturn to the normal state after a short delay. Thedelay starts when the glare goes away. The delayprevents excessive changing of the mirror as trafficmoves behind and around the vehicle, or on rollinghills and curves.

The automatic non-glare mirror

To turn the mirror on or off, push the On/Offswitch, located on the bottom of the mirror. Theswitch will illuminate in the on position.

The electronic mirror measures the brightness of thelight coming in from the rear of the vehicle. Itautomatically makes a correction in the glare state.The mirror may be turned off in either the normalor non-glare position.


90

There are two light sensors (photocells) in thismirror. The sensor that detects rear glare is locatedinside a window in the center of the mirror. Thesecond light sensor which determines outside lightlevel is located on the backside of the mirror case.The driver’s side mirror is activated by these sensorsto prevent glare when traffic is behind or aroundthe vehicle.

NOTE: Do not block the sensor on the backside ofthe mirror (i.e., with a parking tag, car deodorizer,etc.) since this may impair proper mirrorperformance.

One important safety feature is that the mirrorautomatically returns to the normal positionwhenever the vehicle is placed in R (Reverse)(when the mirror is in the ON position). Thisfeature ensures a bright clear view in the mirrorwhen backing up.

Do not clean the housing or glass of any mirrorwith harsh abrasives, fuel or other petroleum-basedcleaning products.

Sun VisorsUsing the Sun VisorsTo block the sun, move the main visor down. Ifequipped with a secondary visor, move the mainvisor to the side and move the secondary visordown.

The passenger sun visor


91

Illuminated Visor Mirror (If equipped)To turn on the visor mirror, lift the mirror cover.

The mirror on the sun visor

HomeLinkH Universal Transmitter(If equipped)The HomeLink Universal Transmitter provides aconvenient way to replace up to three hand-heldtransmitters with a single built-in device. Thisinnovative feature will learn the radio frequencycodes of most current transmitters to operate garagedoors and gates. With the available accessorypackage, the HomeLink Transmitter can also controlhome or office lighting and security systems. Forreliability, the HomeLink Transmitter is powered byyour vehicle’s battery and charging system.

WARNING

When programming your HomeLinkTransmitter, you will be operating thegarage door or gate. Be sure that peopleand objects are out of the way toprevent potential harm or damage.


92

Do not use this HomeLink Transmitter with anygarage door opener that lacks safety “stop” and“reverse” features as required by federal safetystandards, (this includes any garage door openermodel manufactured before April 1, 1982). A garagedoor opener which cannot “detect” an object in thepath of a closing door and then automatically “stop”and “reverse” the door, does not meet currentfederal safety standards. Using a garage door openerwithout these features increases risk of seriousinjury or death. For more information on thismatter, call toll-free: 1-800-355-3515.

ProgrammingIf after repeated attempts you do not successfullyprogram the HomeLink Universal Transmitter tolearn the signal of the hand-help transmitter, calltoll-free for customer assistance: 1-800-355-3515.

1. If you have previously programmed yourHomeLink Transmitter, proceed to step 2.Otherwise, hold down the two outside buttonson the HomeLink Transmitter until the redlight begins to flash. Release both buttons.

2. Decide which one of the three channels youwant to program.

3. Hold the end of your hand-held transmitteragainst the front surface of the HomeLinkTransmitter so that you can still see the redlight.


93

4. Using both hands, push the hand-heldtransmitter button and the desired button onthe HomeLink Transmitter. Continue to pressboth buttons through step 5.

5. Hold down both buttons until you see the redlight on the HomeLink Transmitter flash, firstslowly and then rapidly. It indicates that youhave successfully programmed the HomeLinkTransmitter to learn the new frequency signal.Release both buttons once the rapid flashingbegins.

Note to Canadian ResidentsDuring programming, your hand-held transmittermay automatically stop transmitting after twoseconds, which may not be long enough to programthe HomeLink Universal Transmitter.

If you are programming from one of thesehand-held transmitters, continue to hold the buttonon the HomeLink Transmitter while you re-pressyour hand-held transmitter every two seconds.

You may have to repeat this function several timeswhile programming.


94

Operating the HomeLinkH UniversalTransmitterOnce it is programmed, the HomeLink UniversalTransmitter can be used in place of your hand-heldtransmitter(s). To operate, simply press theappropriate button on the HomeLink Transmitter.The red light comes on while the signal is beingtransmitted.

NOTE: If your hand-held transmitter appears toprogram the HomeLink Transmitter, but does notopen your garage door, and if your garage dooropener was manufactured after 1995, your garagedoor opener may have a “code protected” or“rolling code” feature.

A “rolling code” type of system will change the“code” of your garage door opener every time youopen or close your garage door.

To determine if you have one of these systems,depress the button on the HomeLink Transmitterthat you programmed. If the red light on the

HomeLink Transmitter flashes rapidly for 1-2seconds, then remains on, your garage door openerhas a rolling code system.

Training a Garage Door OpenerEquipped with “Rolling Codes”To train your “rolling code” garage door opener tooperate from your HomeLink Transmitter, followthese steps:

1. Program your hand-held transmitter to theHomeLink Transmitter by following theprocedures outlined in the “Programming”section of these instructions. (If you alreadycompleted this programming, proceed to thenext instruction.)

2. Train your garage door opener receiver torecognize your HomeLink Transmitter. (Yourgarage door opener receiver will learn torecognize the HomeLink Transmitter byfollowing the same procedures used to train thehand-held transmitter.)


95

❑ Remove the cover panel from your garage dooropener receiver. (The receiver should be locatedby the garage door opener motor.)

❑ Locate the training button on the garage dooropener receiver. The exact location and color ofthe button may vary by garage door openerbrand. If you have difficulty locating the trainingbutton, reference your garage door openermanual, or call 1-800-355-3515.

❑ Press the training button on the garage dooropener receiver for 1-2 seconds.

❑ Return to the HomeLink Transmitter in thevehicle, and depress the programmed HomeLinkbutton for the duration of the rapid flash of theHomeLink’s red light, (1-2 seconds). Release thebutton, and re-press the button to confirm thatthe HomeLink Transmitter has been trained tothe receiver.

❑ Your garage door opener should now recognizeyour HomeLink Transmitter. You may use eitheryour HomeLink Transmitter or your originalhand-held transmitter to open your garage door.

If after following these suggestions you still havedifficulties in programming your HomeLinkTransmitter, call toll-free for customer assistance:1-800-355-3515.

Erasing ChannelsTo erase all three programmed channels, hold downthe two outside buttons until the red light begins toflash. Then release both buttons. Individual channelscannot be erased, but can be reprogrammed usingthe procedures for programming the HomeLinkTransmitter, (steps 2 through 5).

NOTE: Be sure to retain your original transmitterfor future programming procedures (i.e., newvehicle purchase).


96

NOTE: When selling your vehicle, be sure to eraseall channels on the HomeLink Transmitter that youprogrammed.

AccessoriesAccessories for your HomeLink UniversalTransmitter are available from the manufacturer ofthe device. If you would like additional informationor would like to purchase other accessories such ashome lighting or security products that can beoperated by the HomeLink Universal Transmitter,please call toll-free: 1-800-355-3515.

DoorsChildproof Locks for the Rear DoorsIn addition to power locks, your vehicle haschildproof locks for the rear doors. If you set theselocks, the rear doors cannot be opened from theinside of the vehicle. The doors can still be openedfrom the outside when the lock knobs are raised.

The childproof locks for the rear doors


97

To set the childproof lock on each rear door, openthe rear door.

Find the lever at the black label with the wordLOCKED in white letters. Move the lever up.

To release the childproof lock, open the rear doorfrom the outside and move the lever down.

Using the Power Door LocksYour vehicle has power door locks. The controls tolock the doors are on the trim panel of the frontdoor. When you close the doors after you set thedoor locks, the doors remain locked. If the powermechanism ever fails, the manual door lock willoverride the power controls.

The power locks on the driver’s door

Illuminated Entry System with TheaterLightingThe interior lights will illuminate for approximately25 seconds when any button on the keyless entrypad is pressed or the remote entry system UNLOCKbutton is pushed.


98

Using the Power WindowsEach door has a power control that opens andcloses the window on that door. The driver’s doorhas a master control panel that operates all fourwindows.

Power windows can only be opened or closed whenthe ignition is in the ON or ACC position or duringthe ten minute delayed accessory period after theignition is turned off.

WARNING

Do not let children play with the powerwindows.

NOTE: Your vehicle is also equipped with adelayed accessory timer. This allows some of youraccessories to remain on for up to 10 minutes afterthe key is turned to the OFF position. Theaccessory timer is cancelled if any door is opened orthe key is turned to the ON position.

The master controls on the driver’s door

To lockout all window switches except the mastercontrols, move the window lock switch to the right.To restore control to the individual windows, movethe switch to the left.

There is also an Express Down feature on thedriver’s power window.


99

To operate, briefly press the driver’s window switchto the down position. The window will then openautomatically. To stop automatic operation, brieflypress the switch again to either the up or downposition. More than a quick press of the switchprovides conventional power window operation.Closing of the power window is conventionaloperation only.

The controls on the passenger’s door

Programmable Memory — Seat andMirrors (If equipped)If your vehicle is equipped with this option, youcan store settings for three seat and mirrorpositions. This allows you to get into your vehicleand simply push the preset button(s) toautomatically have your seat and mirrors in theproper position.

1. Adjust your seat and outside mirrors to thedesired position.

2. Press the “SET” button. A small lamp insidethe button will light up. This tells you that youhave five seconds to program your position.


100

3. Press “1” button within five (5) seconds. Younow have set in memory the first position. Setthe second position by adjusting the seat andmirrors, pressing the SET button and pushingthe “2” button within five (5) seconds. A thirdposition can be set in the same manner asabove by pushing “1” and “2” buttonssimultaneously.

To prevent accidental seat or mirror movement, thissystem will only recall a position when thetransmission gearshift lever is in P (Park) or N(Neutral) with the engine either running or off.However, a new position can be set at any time. Ifthe memory has been activated and you wish tostop the movement, push the switch again.

Moving the seat or mirrors with the power controlsis possible even when memory positions have beenset. The seat and mirrors will not automaticallyreposition until the memory position is activated bypushing the appropriate button(s).

Side View MirrorsYour vehicle comes with electric side mirrors. Theside view mirror on the right is a convex mirror.This mirror gives you a wider view of the lanes onyour right and behind you.

WARNING

The right side view mirror makesobjects appear smaller and farther awaythan they actually are.

The electric remote control mirror switch


101

To adjust the side mirrors:

1. Find the control switch in the driver’s doorpanel.

2. Select the right or left mirror by moving theselector switch to R or L.

3. Move the mirror switch in the direction youwant to move the mirror.

4. Return the selector switch to the middleposition to keep the mirror in place.

Do not clean the housing or glass of any mirrorwith harsh abrasives, fuel or other petroleum-basedcleaning products.

Heated Mirror FeatureBoth mirrors are heated whenever the Electric RearWindow Defroster is turned on. Do not remove icefrom the mirrors with a scraper or you coulddamage them. If the outside mirror glass is frozen

in place, do not attempt to readjust or move themirror glass or damage may result.

Cellular Phone (If equipped)For information about the cellular phone in yourvehicle, refer to the Cellular Phone User’s Manualprovided with your phone. For further questionsabout your Lincoln cellular phone, contact the FordCellular System at 1-800-367-3013(U.S.). InCanada, please contact your dealer.

NOTE: It is recommended that you fold yourcellular phone antenna down onto the back glassbefore entering a car wash.

Front Seat Dual Storage ArmrestsSignature and Cartier Series vehicles have front seatdual storage armrests cassette storage and coinholder. An optional voice-activated cellulartelephone handrest is available in the passengerarmrest. (Instructions for cellular telephone arefound in a separate manual.)


102

To open the lid, push in on the latch release bar atthe front and raise.

The features on the armrest


103

Positive Retention Driver’s SideFloor MatInstalling the Floor MatPosition the floor mat in foot well. Place mat eyeletover pointed end of retention post from the rearand rotate forward to install. Adjust floor matposition to allow proper operation of acceleratorpedal and brake pedal.

The positive retention floor mat


104

Removing the Floor MatLift floor mat just forward of retention post androtate rearward to disengage from retention post.

TrunkOpening the Trunk Manually

To open and close the trunk from the outside:

The trunk lock cylinder

1. Insert the key into the lock on the trunk.

2. Turn the key to the right until the trunk opens.

3. Remove the key before you close and lock thelid.


105

4. Shut the trunk lid by pushing on the top of thelid with enough pressure to allow the latch toengage.

5. The power mechanism will automatically pulldown and securely latch the trunk lid shut. Aslight whirring sound will be heard.

WARNING

Do not attempt to stop the automaticpulldown or clear objects from thesealing edges of the decklid once theinitial latching has been made.

Using the Power Trunk ReleaseThe remote trunk lock switch located in the driver’sdoor trim panel can be operated at any time unlessyou render the switch inoperable by locking thebutton with your master key.

The remote control for the trunk

Keyless Entry SystemYou can lock or unlock the vehicle doors and openthe trunk without using a key. The buttons for thesystem are below the outside door handle on thedriver’s side. See also Remote Entry System whichfollows this description.


106

The keyless entry buttons

When you bought your vehicle, you were given acomputer code that operates the system for yourvehicle. For your convenience, we have duplicatedthis code in three places.

The code is:

❑ on your owner’s wallet card found in the glovecompartment

❑ taped to the trunk lid’s right hinge support bar

❑ taped to the computer module in your driver’sfront door

When you use keyless entry, the illuminated entrysystem turns on the interior lights for 25 secondsand the buttons on the keypad light up. Do notpush the buttons with a key, ballpoint pen, pencil,or any other hard object. These objects coulddamage the buttons.


107

Unlocking the Doors with the KeylessEntry SystemYou must unlock the driver’s door before youunlock any of the other doors or trunk. If you letmore than five (5) seconds pass before pressingnumbers, the system shuts down, and you have toenter the code again. The system has shut down ifthe keypad light is out. If the keyless entry systemdoes not work properly, use the key ortransmitter(s) to lock and unlock the doors orunlock the trunk.

1. To unlock the driver’s door, enter the factorycode or your personal code. All codes have five(5) numbers. After you press the fifth number,the driver’s door unlocks.

2. To unlock all passenger doors, press the 3/4button within five (5) seconds of unlocking thedriver’s door or trunk, or re-enter the code toopen the driver’s door, then press 3/4.

3. To unlock the trunk, press the 5/6 buttonwithin five seconds of unlocking the driver’s orpassenger’s doors, or re-enter the code to openthe driver’s door, then press 5/6.

As long as the driver’s door has been unlocked first,you can open the passenger door or the trunk inany order.

Locking the Doors with the KeylessEntry SystemAlong with unlocking your doors, you can use thekeyless entry system to lock the doors.

To lock all of the vehicle’s doors at the same time,press 7/8 and 9/0 at the same time. It is notnecessary to first enter the keypad code. This willalso arm your anti-theft system (if equipped).


108

AutolockThe Autolock feature will automatically lock all thedoors when:

❑ the vehicle’s doors are fully closed

❑ the ignition key is turned to the ON position

❑ someone is sitting in the driver’s seat or aheavy object is placed on it

❑ the vehicle is in any forward or reverse gear.

The Autolock feature will repeat when:

❑ the ignition key remains in the ON position

❑ someone remains sitting in the driver’s seat or aheavy object is on the seat

❑ a door is opened and then closed

❑ the vehicle is in any forward or reverse gear.

If you do not want to use the Autolock feature, itcan be deactivated by using the buttons for thekeyless entry system.

To deactivate the Autolock system:

1. Enter your permanent five-digit entry code (notthe personal code you may have set).

2. Within 5 seconds, press and hold 7/8.

3. Within 5 more seconds, press and release 3/4.

4. Release 7/8.

To reactivate the Autolock feature, simply repeatthe instructions for deactivating the system. TheAutolock feature can be turned on and off using theinstructions above.


109

Programming Your Own Entry CodeYou can program up to four (4) personal codes tounlock your vehicle. This code does not replace thepermanent code that the dealership gave you. Useyour personal code in the same manner as youwould your original code.

To program your own code:

1. Select five digits for your personal code.

2. Enter the factory code that the dealership gaveyou.

3. Within five (5) seconds, press 1/2.

4. Within five (5) seconds of pressing 1/2, enteryour personal code, pressing each digit withinfive (5) seconds of the previous digit.

5. Enter a sixth digit to indicate which memoryshould be recalled by this personal code.

1/2 Recall Memory 1

3/4 Recall Memory 2

5/6 Recall Memory 3

9/0 No recall

All of the vehicle doors will lock and thenunlock to confirm programming of the newcode.

The keyless entry system registers this new code.To open your vehicle, you can now use either code.


110

To erase all of the personal entry codes and remoteentry transmitters programmed to a vehicle:

1. Enter the original permanent code.

2. Press 1/2 within five seconds of Step 1.

3. Press and hold 1/2 for two (2) seconds.

All of the vehicle doors will lock and thenunlock to confirm erasure.

Do not set a code that presents the numbers insequential order, such as 1/2, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8, 9/0.Studies show that people who idly press the buttonsusually press a sequential pattern. Also, do notselect a code that uses the same button five times.Thieves can easily figure out these types of codes.

Arming, disarming and resetting youranti-theft system from the keyless entrypadThe Keyless Entry system will arm the anti-theftsystem when you use the 7/8 and 9/0 keys to lockthe doors, and will disarm or reset a triggeredanti-theft alarm when you enter in the five digitcode to unlock the driver’s door.

Remote Entry SystemWith the remote entry system, you can lock andunlock the vehicle doors and open the trunkwithout using a key. The buttons for the system arelocated on the two hand held transmitters thatcame with your vehicle. The remote also has apersonal alarm feature.

The system will work with up to four transmitters.Your vehicle came with two transmitters. Additionaltransmitters can be ordered from your dealer.


111

The remote entry features only operate with thetransmission in the P (Park) or N (Neutral) position.

Remote entry transmitter

Unlocking the doors and opening thetrunkTo unlock the driver’s door, press the UNLOCKcontrol.

To unlock the other doors, press the UNLOCKbutton a second time within five (5) seconds ofunlocking the driver’s door.

To open the trunk, press the TRUNK button twicewithin five (5) seconds.

Locking the doorsTo lock all the doors, press the LOCK button. Thiswill also arm the anti-theft system (if equipped).

The doors will lock and the horn will chirp toindicate the vehicle is locked and armed.


112

The door lock Horn Chirp is a programmablefeature. To deactivate the Horn Chirp feature:

1. Enter your permanent five-digit code (not theuser code you may have set).

2. Within five seconds, press and hold the 7/8button.

3. Within five more seconds, press and release the1/2 button.

4. Release the 7/8 button.

To reactivate the Horn Chirp feature, simply repeatthe instruction for deactivating the feature.

Activating the remote personal alarmIf you wish to activate the remote personal alarm,press the PANIC control. This will honk the hornand flash the parking lamps and tail lamps forapproximately two minutes and forty-five seconds.

You can turn it OFF by pressing the PANIC controlagain or by turning the ignition key to the RUNposition.

Arming and Disarming the AlarmSystemYour vehicle is equipped with the factory installedanti-theft system. The remote entry system willautomatically arm it when the doors are lockedwith the remote entry LOCK button. The remoteentry UNLOCK button will disarm or reset atriggered anti-theft alarm.

The remote entry system is designed to work withthe factory installed anti-theft system. It may notwork with other anti-theft systems.

When you use the remote entry UNLOCK, TRUNKor PANIC buttons, the illuminated entry systemturns on the interior lights for 25 seconds. You canturn these lights off with the LOCK button or byturning the ignition to the RUN position.


113

Memory Seat and Mirror Feature

❑ Remote Entry

Pressing the UNLOCK button on the remoteentry key fob unlocks the driver’s door andrecalls all of the Memory settings. Two key fobsare delivered with the vehicle. One isprogrammed to always recall Memory 1 and theother will always recall Memory 2. Memory 1or 2 is indicated on the back of the key fob.

Memory recall from the remote key fob can bedisabled. This is done by sliding the switch onthe back of the key fob to OFF. Memory canstill be recalled using the keyless entry code orthe Memory 1 or Memory 2 switches.

❑ Keyless Entry

Up to four unique keyless entry codes can beprogrammed by the customer. Three of thecodes can be assigned to recall Memory 1,Memory 2, or Memory 3. Each time thefive-digit code is entered on the keypad, thedriver’s door will unlock and Memory 1,Memory 2, or Memory 3 will be recalled.

❑ Memory Switches

Pressing either the Memory 1 or Memory 2switch on the driver’s door will also recall thememory settings as selected.


114

Replacing the BatteriesThe remote entry transmitter is powered by twocoin type three-volt lithium 1616 batteries(included) that should last for several years ofnormal use. If you notice a significant decrease inoperating range, the batteries should be replaced.Replacement batteries can be purchased at mostpharmacies, watch stores or at your Ford orLincoln-Mercury dealer.

NOTE: The operating range of the remote entrysystem can also be affected by weather conditions(such as very cold temperatures) or structuresaround the vehicle (buildings, other vehicles, radioand TV towers, etc.). Typical operating range willallow you to be up to 33 feet (10 meters) awayfrom your vehicle.

The transmitter can be snapped apart to replace thebatteries by twisting a thin coin between the twohalves of the transmitter. DO NOT TAKE THEFRONT PART OF THE TRANSMITTER APART.

When installing the new batteries, be sure to placethe positive (+) side down as marked. Snap the twohalves back together.

Replacement/additional transmittersIn the event a transmitter is lost, a new one maybe purchased from your dealer. To program thenew transmitter:

Additional transmitters may be purchased from yourdealer (remote entry system will work with up tofour transmitters). To program additionaltransmitters to your vehicle, use the followingprocedure for replacement transmitters.

1. Enter the factory keyless entry code. Yourpersonal code will not allow programming.

2. Press the 1/2 button.


115

3. Press one button on each of the transmitters tobe programmed. Each transmitter button mustbe pressed within seven (7) seconds of theprior one. Each time a transmitter issuccessfully programmed, all of the vehicledoors will lock and then unlock to verifyprogramming. If the doors did not lock/unlock,your transmitter was not programmed.

THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OFTHE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT TOTHE FOLLOWING TWO CONDITIONS: (1)THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE HARMFULINTERFERENCE, AND (2) THIS DEVICE MUSTACCEPT ANY INTERFERENCE RECEIVED,INCLUDING INTERFERENCE THAT MAYCAUSE UNDESIRED OPERATION.

NOTE: All transmitters to be used on your vehiclemust be programmed/reprogrammed at the sametime.

Battery SaverWhen the ignition is turned off, the vehicle willturn off battery voltage to the vehicle lamps asfollows:

❑ Courtesy lights (lights which come on when adoor is opened): after 10 minutes.

❑ Map/Glove compartment/Trunk/Hook lamps:after 30 minutes.

❑ Headlamps and park lamps (only if headlampswitch is left in the headlamp position): after 10minutes.

This will prevent draining of the battery if thoselights have been left on inadvertently or if a door isnot completely closed. Battery voltage to theselamps will be restored when the keyless entrykeypad is used, the remote entry transmitter isused, any door is opened, the trunk is opened, orthe ignition key is turned to the ON position.


116

Anti-theft SystemWhen armed, this system helps protect your vehicleagainst break-ins or theft by monitoring all doors,the hood, and the trunk lock cylinder.

When an unauthorized entry occurs, the systemtriggers and will:

❑ flash the headlamps, parking lamps, interiorlamps, and alarm indicator light

❑ honk the horn

❑ prevent the engine from starting

NOTE: The factory installed Remote Entry Systemhas a PANIC feature that also chirps the vehiclehorn and flashes the interior/exterior lamps whenthe PANIC button on the remote entry transmitteris pushed. The PANIC alarm and the Anti-Theftalarm are two separate features. Both theanti-theft alarm and the PANIC feature can beactive at the same time.

To tell the difference between a PANIC alarm anda triggered Anti-Theft alarm:

❑ only the Anti-Theft alarm will cause the alarmindicator light (located in the center of theinstrument cluster) to flash on and off.

❑ only the Anti-Theft alarm will prevent theengine from starting.

For more information on the PANIC alarm, seeRemote Entry System in the Index.

Arming the SystemTo arm the system, do the following four steps insequence.

1. Remove the key from the ignition.

2. Open any door. The alarm indicator light willstart flashing to remind you to arm the system.


117

3. Lock the doors by using the power door lockswitch, pressing the remote entry transmitterLOCK button or pressing the last two buttons(7/8, 9/0) of the keyless entry keypad.

The alarm indicator will now glow steadily.

4. Close all doors. The alarm indicator light willthen remain on steadily for approximately 30more seconds and then go out. When the lightgoes out the system is armed.

NOTE: Be sure to close all doors completely. Ifnot, the alarm indicator light will remain on.Remember, your anti-theft system is armed onlyafter the alarm indicator light remains on steadilyfor approximately 30 seconds after the last door isclosed, and then goes out.

You can also arm the anti-theft system with thefactory installed remote entry system or the keylessentry system by following this sequence:

1. Remove the key from the ignition.

2. Close all of the doors.

3. Press the remote entry transmitter LOCKbutton or press the last two buttons (7/8, 9/0)of the keyless entry keypad to lock the doors.The alarm indicator will come on for 30seconds to show the alarm is arming and thenturn off to show that the alarm has armed.

The anti-theft system is designed to work with thefactory installed remote entry system. It may notwork with other remote entry systems.

NOTE: The anti-theft system will not activate whilesomeone is sitting in the driver’s seat or if there isa heavy object in the driver’s seat.


118

Disarming an Untriggered Anti-TheftSystemYou can disarm the system by:

❑ unlocking a front door with the key (turn thekey all the way to the end of travel or thesystem will not disarm).

❑ using the keyless entry unlock code.

❑ using the UNLOCK button of the remote entrytransmitter.

If you armed the system while inside your vehicle,you can disarm it by turning the ignition to the ONor ACC position. This allows you to open the doorand exit without triggering the system.

Triggering the Alarm SystemThe armed system will be triggered if:

❑ any door is opened without disarming thesystem (see previous paragraphs), or

❑ there is an attempt to remove the trunk lockcylinder (simply pulling on the lock cylinder willtrigger a switch), or

NOTE: You can open the trunk with your keywithout setting off the alarm.

❑ the hood is opened.

Disarming a Triggered SystemThe alarm can be disarmed by:

❑ unlocking a front door with the key

❑ using the keyless entry unlock code

❑ using the UNLOCK control on the remote entrytransmitter

NOTE: The flashing lights and honking horn willshut off automatically approximately three minutesafter the system is triggered. It will trigger again ifanother intrusion occurs. However, the engine willnot be allowed to start until the system is disarmed.


119

Seating and Safety Restraints

SeatsHead RestraintsIf you use them properly, head restraints will helpprotect your head and neck in a collision.

Adjusting the head restraint

A head restraint should be placed as high aspossible behind your head without interfering withyour vision.

You can adjust the head restraints for your comfortand protection.

Four-way head restraints (if equipped)Your vehicle may have the four-way head restraint.You can adjust it in four directions. You can raise ittwo (2) inches (50 mm) from its normal position,or you can move it forward up to 60˚ until youreach the desired position.

File:06fnsst.exUpdate:Fri Jun 21 08:57:53 1996

120

The four-way head restraint

Adjusting the Seats

WARNING

Never adjust the driver’s seat orseatback when the vehicle is moving.

WARNING

Always drive and ride with yourseatback upright and the lap belt snugand low across the hips.

WARNING

Do not pile cargo higher than theseatbacks to avoid injuring people in acollision or sudden stop.

To recline the front manual seats:

1. On the side of the seat, find the handle for therecliner.

2. Lift the handle up and hold it in place.

3. Lean against the back of the seat and adjust itto the position you want. You can tilt the seatback or bring it forward.


121

4. Release the handle to lock the seat in its newposition.

The seatback recliner handle

Using the Power SeatsThe controls to operate the power seats are locatedon the front door armrests. The power seat adjustment controls


122

Power Recliner (If equipped)To recline the front seatback, push the switchlocated on the side of the seat down. Push theswitch up to raise the seatback.

The seat controls for the power reclineradjustment on the driver’s seat

Power Lumbar Support (If equipped)With this feature, you can inflate a lumbar supportpad in the seatback. To inflate the lumbar pad,push and hold the switch forward. To deflate thepad, push and hold the switch rearward.

The seat controls for the lumbar support onthe driver’s seat


123

Heated Seats (If equipped)Each Heated Seat is controlled by the Heated SeatSwitch in the Driver’s and Front Passenger’s doorjust rear of the door handle. The Heated SeatSystem will only operate with the ignition key inthe “ON” position and will maintain a temperatureautomatically once it is selected. NOTE: Leaving theHeated Seat turned on when you shut the car offwill not continue to heat the seat.

The heated seat controls

To operate the Heated Seat System:

1. Select mode.

❑ “Both” to heat the seat back and seat cushion

❑ “Back” to heat the seat back only


124

2. Rotate the thumbwheel from “0” to “1” (thelowest heat level). Allow five minutes for theheat level to stabilize.

3. If the heat level is not high enough forcomfort, select increased heat levels “2”through “5” (the maximum level). Allow atleast two minutes for the heat level to stabilizeat any new level selected.

4. If the heated seat switch is not turned off (“0”on the thumbwheel), the seat will heat up tothe selected temperature level each time thecar is started.

NOTE: Cooling the seat down takes considerablylonger than increasing its heat level.

Important Safety Belt InformationThe use of safety belts helps to restrain you andyour passengers in case of a collision. In most statesand in Canada the law requires their use.

Safety belts provide best restraint when:

❑ the seatback is upright

❑ the occupant is sitting upright (not slouched)

❑ the lap belt is snug and low on the hips

❑ the shoulder belt is snug against the chest

❑ the knees are straight forward

To help you remember to fasten your safety belt, awarning light may come on and a chime maysound. See Safety Belt Warning Light and Chime inthe Instrumentation chapter.

See the following sections in this chapter fordirections on how to properly use these safety belts.Also see Safety Restraints for Children in thischapter for special instructions about using safetybelts for children.


125

WARNING

It is extremely dangerous to ride in acargo area, inside or outside of avehicle. In a collision, people riding inthese areas are more likely to beseriously injured or killed. Do notallow people to ride in any area of yourvehicle that is not equipped with seatsand safety belts. Be sure everyone inyour vehicle is in a seat and using asafety belt properly.

WARNING

Always drive and ride with yourseatback upright and the lap belt snugand low across the hips.

WARNING

Each seating position in your vehiclehas a specific safety belt assemblywhich is made up of one buckle andone tongue that are designed to be usedas a pair. 1) Use the shoulder belt onthe outside shoulder only. Never wearthe shoulder belt under the arm. 2)Never swing it around your neck overthe inside shoulder. 3) Never use asingle belt for more than one person.


126

WARNING

Ford recommends that all safety beltassemblies and attaching hardwareshould be inspected by a qualifiedtechnician after any collision. Safetybelt assemblies not in use during acollision should also be inspected andreplaced if either damage or improperoperation is noted.

WARNING

Children should always ride with theseatback in the fully upright position.

WARNING

Never let a passenger hold a child onhis or her lap while the vehicle ismoving. The passenger cannot protectthe child from injury in a collision.

WARNING

Lock the doors of your vehicle beforedriving to lessen the risk of the doorcoming open in a collision.

Combination Lap and ShoulderBeltsWhile your vehicle is in motion, the combinationlap and shoulder belt adjusts to your movement.However, if you brake hard, corner hard or if yourvehicle receives an impact of 5 mph (8 km/h) ormore, the lap and shoulder belt locks and helpsreduce your forward movement.

After you get into your vehicle, close the door andlock it. Then adjust the seat to the position thatsuits you best.


127

Fastening the combination lap and shoulderbelt

Fastening the rear seat lap and shoulder belt

NOTE: Be sure to read and understand ImportantSafety Belt Information in this chapter.

To adjust the lap part of the belt, pull up on theshoulder belt until the lap belt fits snugly and aslow as possible around your hips.


128

While the belt retracts, guide the tongue to itsoriginal position to prevent it from striking you orthe vehicle.

Unfastening the lap/shoulder belts

Shoulder Belt Height Adjustment

Driver and right front passengerYou can adjust the shoulder belt height to one offive (5) positions. To adjust, pinch the releasebutton (see Figures 1 and 2) and slide it up ordown until the belt rests across the middle of yourshoulder. Release the button and make sure theadjuster is firmly in one of the five (5) positions.


129

Figure 1 — The shoulder belt height adjuster

Figure 2 — The shoulder belt height adjuster


130

WARNING

Position the shoulder belt heightadjuster so that the belt rests across themiddle of your shoulder. Be sure theshoulder belt is properly positioned onyour shoulder each time you use thebelt. If the shoulder belt is off yourshoulder, on your upper arm or neck,there is a greater risk of severe injuryin a collision.

Safety Belts for the Front PassengerOutboard Seating PositionsYour vehicle is equipped with a dual locking moderetractor on the shoulder belt portion of thecombination lap/shoulder safety belt for front seatpassengers and a locking “cinch tongue” for rearoutboard passengers.

Dual locking mode retractors operate in twoways:

Vehicle sensitive (emergency) lockingmodeIn this operating mode, the shoulder belt retractorwill allow the occupant freedom of movement,locking tight only on hard braking, hard corneringor impacts of approximately 5 mph (8 km/h) ormore. The retractor can also be made to lock bypulling the belt out quickly.

Automatic locking modeIn this operating mode, the shoulder belt retractorwill be automatically locked and will remain lockedwhen the combination lap/shoulder safety belt isbuckled, and does not allow the occupant freedomof movement. This mode provides the following:

❑ A tight lap/shoulder belt on the occupant.

❑ Child seat installation restraint.


131

WARNING

Rear-facing child seats or infant carriersshould never be placed in the frontseats.

This mode must be used when installing a childseat on the front pasenger seat and rear windowseats where dual locking retractors are provided. Toswitch the retractor from the emergency lockingmode to the automatic locking mode, perform thefollowing steps:

1. Buckle the lap/shoulder combination belt.

2. Grasp the shoulder portion of the belt and pulldownward until all of the belt is extracted anda click is heard. At this time, the retractor is inthe automatic locking mode (child restraintmode).

3. A clicking sound will continue to be heard asthe belt is allowed to retract.

NOTE: When the combination lap/shoulder belt isunbuckled and allowed to retract completely, theretractor will switch to the vehicle sensitive(emergency) locking mode. See the detailedinstructions under Safety Seats for Children inthis chapter.

Safety Belts with Locking CinchTongue for Rear Outboard SeatingPositionsYour vehicle is equipped with safety seat beltscontaining a cinch tongue at the rear outboardseating positions.

The locking cinch tongue will slide up and downthe belt webbing when the belt is in the stowedposition or while putting seat belts on. When thelocking cinch tongue of the lap/shoulder


132

combination seat belt is latched into the buckle, thecinch tongue will allow the lap portion to becomeshorter, but locks the webbing in place to restrict itfrom becoming longer.

Before you can reach and latch a combination lapand shoulder belt having a cinch tongue into thebuckle, you may have to lengthen the lap beltportion of it. To lengthen the lap belt, pull somewebbing out of the shoulder belt retractor. Whileholding the webbing below the tongue, grasp thetip (metal portion) of the tongue so that it isparallel to the webbing and slide the tongueupward. Provide enough lap belt length so that thetongue can reach the buckle.

NOTE: If you grasp the tongue by the tonguecover to lengthen the belt, the tongue cover willgrab the webbing, making it difficult to slide.

Adjusting the cinch tongue rear combinationlap and shoulder belt


133

To fasten a cinch tongue, pull the combination lapand shoulder belt from the retractor so that theshoulder belt portion of the safety belt crosses yourshoulder and chest. Be sure the belt is not twisted.If the belt is twisted remove the twist. Insert thebelt tongue into the proper buckle for your seatingposition until you hear a snap and feel it latch.Make sure the tongue is securely fastened to thebuckle by pulling on the tongue.

WARNING

The lap belts should fit snugly and aslow as possible around the hips, notaround the waist.

WARNING

Front and rear seat occupants, includingpregnant women, should wear safetybelts for optimum protection in anaccident.

WARNING

Each seating position in your vehiclehas a specific safety belt assemblywhich is made up of one buckle andone tongue that are designed to be usedas a pair. 1) Use the shoulder belt onthe outside shoulder only. Never wearthe shoulder belt under the arm. 2)Never swing it around your neck overthe inside shoulder. 3) Never use asingle belt for more than one person.

While you are fastened in the seat belt, thecombination lap/shoulder belt with a cinch tongueadjusts to your movement. However, if you brakehard, turn hard, or if your vehicle receives animpact of 5 mph (8 km/h) or more, the safety beltwill become locked and help reduce your forwardmovement.


134

Lap BeltsThe lap belts in the center of the front and rearseats do not adjust automatically. You must adjustthem to fit snugly and as low as possible aroundyour hips. Do not wear them around your waist.

Unfastening center lap safety belts

NOTE: Be sure to read and understand ImportantSafety Belt Information in this chapter.

Pull the belt across your hips and insert thetongue into the correct buckle on your seat untilyou hear a snap and feel it lock. Make sure thebuckle is securely fastened.

If you need to lengthen the belt, unfasten it and tipthe belt tongue at a right angle to the belt. Pull thebelt tongue over your lap until it reaches thebuckle.

If you need to shorten the belt, pull on the looseend of the webbing until the belt fits snugly.

To unfasten the belt, push the release button onthe buckle. This allows the tongue to unlatch fromthe buckle.

Safety Belt Extension AssemblyFor some people, the safety belt may be too shorteven when it is fully extended. You can add abouteight inches (20 cm) to the belt length with asafety belt extension assembly (part number611C22). Safety belt extensions are available at nocost from your dealer.


135

Use only extensions manufactured by the samesupplier as the safety belt. Manufactureridentification is located at the end of the webbingon the label. Also, use the safety belt extension onlyif the safety belt is too short for you when fullyextended. Do not use extension to change the fit ofthe shoulder belt across the torso.

WARNING

Failure to follow these instructions willaffect the performance of the safetybelts and increase the risk of personalinjury.

Safety Belt MaintenanceCheck the safety belt systems periodically to makesure that they work properly and are not damaged.

All safety belt assemblies, including retractors,buckles, front seat belt buckle support assemblies(slide bar) (if equipped), shoulder belt heightadjusters (if equipped), child safety seat tether

bracket assemblies (if equipped), and attachinghardware, should be inspected after any collision.Ford recommends that all safety belt assembliesused in vehicles involved in a collision be replaced.However, if the collision was minor and a qualifiedtechnician finds that the belts do not show damageand continue to operate properly, they do not needto be replaced. Safety belt assemblies not in useduring a collision should also be inspected andreplaced if either damage or improper operation isnoted.

Air Bag Supplemental RestraintSystem (SRS)Important Air Bag PrecautionsYour vehicle is equipped with a supplementalrestraint system designed to work with the safetybelts to help protect you and your right front seatpassenger in the event of a collision. The Air BagSupplemental Restraint System is primarily designedto reduce certain upper body injuries.


136

WARNING

All occupants of the vehicle, includingthe driver, should always wear theirsafety belts, failure to do so mayincrease the risk of personal injury inthe event of a collision.

WARNING

The right front passenger air bag is notdesigned to restrain occupants in thecenter front seating position.

WARNING

Do not place objects or mountequipment on or near the air bag coversthat may come into contact with aninflating air bag. Failure to follow theseinstructions may increase the risk ofpersonal injury in the event of acollision.

WARNING

Do not attempt to service, repair, ormodify the air bag SupplementalRestraint System or its fuses. See yourFord or Lincoln-Mercury dealer.


137

WARNING

If you are close to an inflating air bag,it could seriously injure you. Positionyour seat such that it is as far backfrom the steering wheel as possible butstill allows you to properly control thevehicle.

Children and Air BagsNOTE: For additional important safety informationon the proper use of seat belts, child seats, andinfant seats, please read the entire Safety Restraintssection in this owner guide.

WARNING

Children should always wear theirsafety belts. Failure to follow theseinstructions may increase the risk ofpersonal injury in the event of acollision.

WARNING

Rear-facing child seats and infantcarriers should never be placed in thefront seats.

How Does the Air Bag SupplementalRestraint System Work?The Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System isdesigned to activate when the vehicle is in acollision similar to hitting a fixed barrier head on at8-14 mph (13-23 km/h). The fact that the air bagsdid not inflate in a collision does not mean thatsomething is wrong with the system. Rather, itmeans the forces were not of the type sufficient tocause acitivation.

If the vehicle is in a moderate or severe frontalcollision, the system is activated and the air bagsinflate rapidly. After the air bag inflates, it willquickly deflate. After the air bag deployment, youmay notice a smoke-like, powdery residue or smell


138

the burnt propellant. This is normal. The residuemay consist of cornstarch or talcum powder (whichis used to lubricate the air bag) or sodiumcompounds, such as sodium carbonates (e.g. bakingsoda) that result from the combustion process thatinflates the air bag. Small amounts of sodiumhydroxide may be present which may irritate theskin and eyes, but none of the residue is toxic. TheAir Bag Supplemental Restraint System will reduce,but not eliminate all injuries in an accident.

WARNING

Several air bag system components gethot after inflation. Do not try to touchthem after inflation.

WARNING

The air bag will inflate only once. Thesystem is designed to function on aone-time-only basis. If the air bag isinflated, THE AIR BAG WILL NOTFUNCTION AGAIN AND MUST BEREPLACED IMMEDIATELY. If the airbag is not replaced, this will increasethe risk of injury in a subsequentcollision.


139

The Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System consistsof:

❑ driver and passenger air bag modules (whichinclude the inflators and air bags),

❑ one or more impact and safing sensors,

❑ a system diagnostic module,

❑ a readiness light and tone,

❑ and the electrical wiring which connects thecomponents.

The diagnostic module monitors its own circuits,the air bag electrical system, the air bag readinesslight, the air bag power, and the air bag inflators.

Determining if System Is OperationalThe Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System uses areadiness light and a tone to indicate the conditionof the system. The readiness light is in theinstrument cluster. When you turn the ignition keyto ON, this light will illuminate for approximately

six (6) seconds and then turn off. This indicatesthat the system is operating normally. NOTE:Routine maintenance of the air bag system is notrequired.

A problem with the system is indicated by one ormore of the following:

❑ the readiness light will either flash or stay lit,

❑ the readiness light will not light immediatelyafter ignition is turned on,

❑ a group of five beeps will be heard. The tonepattern will repeat periodically until the problemand light are repaired.

If any of these things happen, even intermittently,have the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint Systemserviced at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealerimmediately. Unless serviced, the system may notfunction properly in the event of a collision.


140

Disposal of Air Bags and Air BagEquipped VehiclesFor disposal of air bags or air bag equipped vehicles,see your local Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. Airbags MUST BE disposed of by qualified personnel.

Safety Restraints for ChildrenIn the U.S. and Canada, you are required by law touse safety restraints for children. If small childrenride in your vehicle — this generally includeschildren who are four years old or younger andwho weigh 40 pounds (18 kg) or less — you mustput them in safety seats that are made specially forchildren. Safety belts alone do not providemaximum protection for these children. Check yourlocal and state laws for specific requirements.

WARNING

Never let a passenger hold a child onhis or her lap while the vehicle ismoving. The passenger cannot protectthe child from injury in a collision.

WARNING

Cargo should always be secured toprevent it from shifting and causingdamage to the vehicle or harm topassengers.

When possible, put children in the rear seat of yourvehicle. Accident statistics suggest that children aresafer when properly restrained in the rear seatingpositions than in the front seating positions.


141

WARNING

Carefully follow all of themanufacturer’s instructions includedwith the safety seat you put in yourvehicle. If you do not install and usethe safety seat properly, the child maybe injured in a sudden stop or collision.

WARNING

Safety belts and seats can become hotin a vehicle that has been closed up insunny weather; they could burn a smallchild. Check seat covers and bucklesbefore you place a child anywhere nearthem.

WARNING

Do not leave children, unreliable adults,or pets unattended in your vehicle.

Safety Seats for ChildrenUse a safety seat that is recommended for the sizeand weight of the child. Always follow the safetyseat manufacturer’s instructions when installing andusing the safety seat.

Ford recommends the use of a child safety seathaving a top tether strap. Install the child safetyseat in a seating position which is capable ofproviding a tether anchorage. For more informationon top tether straps see Attaching Safety Seats WithTether Straps in this chapter.

When installing a child safety seat, be sure to usethe correct safety belt buckle for that seatingposition, and make sure the tongue is securelyfastened in the buckle. For a shoulder/lap beltcombination with a sliding tongue, make sure theretractor is in the automatic locking mode.


142

WARNING

Rear-facing child seats or infant carriersshould never be placed in the frontseats.

WARNING

When using forward-facing child seatsmove the passenger seat as far backfrom the instrument panel as possible.Never secure rear-facing child seats orinfant carriers in the front seat.

All child restraint systems are designed to besecured in vehicle seats by lap belts or by the lapportion of a lap-shoulder belt.

WARNING

If you do not properly secure the safetyseat, the child occupying the seat maybe injured during a collision or suddenstop. An unsecured safety seat couldalso injure other passengers.

WARNING



143

WARNING


Installing Safety Seats in the FrontOutboard Passenger Seating PositionIf you choose to install a forward-facing child safetyseat in the front seating positions, move vehicle seatas far back as possible.

For seating positions equipped with a dual-lockingmode retractor, use the following procedure:

1. Position the child seat in center of passengerseating position.

2. Pull down on shoulder belt, then graspshoulder belt and lap belt together. See Figure1.


144

3. While holding the shoulder and lap beltportions together, route the tongue through thechild seat according to the child seatmanufacturer’s instructions. See Figure 2. Besure that the belt webbing is not twisted.


145

Routing the lap/shoulder belt

4. Insert the belt tongue into the proper bucklefor that seating position until you hear and feelthe latch engage. See Figure 3. Make suretongue is latched securely to buckle by pullingon tongue.


146

Buckling the belt.

5. Grasp the shoulder portion of the belt and pulldownward until all of the belt is extracted anda click is heard. At this time, the retractor is inthe automatic locking mode (child restraintmode). See Figure 4.

NOTE: The dual locking mode retractor must be inthe automatic locking mode to properly restrain achild seat.


147

Setting the retractor to automatic lockingmode

6. Allow the belt to retract. A clicking sound willbe heard as the belt retracts. This indicates theretractor is in the automatic locking mode. Pullon the lap belt portion across the child seattowards the buckle and continue to pull up onthe shoulder belt portion while pushing downon the child seat allowing the shoulder belt toretract to remove any slack in the seat belt. SeeFigures 5 and 6.


148


149

7. Before placing the child in the child seat,forcibly tilt the seat from side to side and inforward directions to make sure that the seat issecurely held in place. See Figure 7.

Checking that the seat is secure


150

8. Double check that the retractor is in theautomatic locking mode. Try to pull more beltout of the retractor. If you cannot, the belt isin the automatic locking mode. See Figure 8.

Checking the retractor


151

9. Check to make sure that the child seat isproperly secured prior to each use. If theretractor is not locked, repeat steps 6 through8.

NOTE: To remove the retractor from automaticlock mode, allow seat belt to retract fully to itsstowed position and the retractor will automaticallyswitch back to the vehicle sensitive locking modefor normal adult usage.

Installing Child Safety Seats in the RearOutboard Seating PositionsYour rear outboard seating positions are equippedwith a cinch tongue on the safety belts. Use thefollowing procedure for installing a child safety seatin these locations.

1. Grasp the belt webbing below the tongue andpull as much of the belt out of the retractor aspossible. Hold the belt out. See Figure 1.


152

NOTE: The belt webbing below the tongue is thelap belt portion of the combination lap/shoulderbelt, and the belt webbing above the tongue is theshoulder belt portion of the combinationlap/shoulder belt.

2. With your other hand, grasp the tip (metalportion) of the tongue (not the cover) and slidethe tongue up the webbing as far as it will go.See Figure 1. Release the tongue, but do notlet go of the lap portion of the belt webbing.

3. While still holding the belt webbing below thetongue in one hand, use your other hand tograsp the tip (metal portion) of the tongue andbelt webbing together, and again pull out asmuch of the belt as possible. Then, let go ofthe lap portion of the belt webbing.

4. While holding the shoulder and lap beltportions together, route the tongue andwebbing through the child seat according to thechild seat manufacturer’s instructions. SeeFigure 2. Be sure that the belt webbing is nottwisted.


153

5. Insert the belt tongue into the proper bucklefor that seating position until you hear a snapand feel it latch. Make sure the tongue issecurely latched to the buckle by pulling on thetongue. See Figure 3.


154

6. Push down on the child seat and pull up onthe shoulder belt portion to tighten the lap beltportion of the combination lap and shoulderbelt. See Figure 4.


155

7. Grasp belt close to child seat and pull on theshoulder belt portion of the combinationlap/shoulder belt, then allow the belt to retractand remove all slack to securely tighten thechild safety seat in the vehicle. See Figure 5.


156

8. Before placing the child into the child seat,forcibly tilt the child seat from side-to-side andin forward directions to make sure that the seatis held securely in place. See Figures 6 and 7.If the child seat moves excessively, repeat steps6 through 8, or properly install the child seatin a different seating position.


157


158

9. Check from time to time to be sure that thereis no slack in the lap/shoulder belt. Theshoulder belt must be snug to keep the lap belttight during a collision.

Attaching Safety Seats With TetherStrapsSome manufacturers make safety seats that includea tether strap that goes over the back of the vehicleseat and attaches to an anchoring point. Othermanufacturers offer the tether strap as an accessory.Contact the manufacturer of your child safety seatfor information about ordering a tether strap.

Tether anchorage hardware

Attachment holes (at each rear outboardseating position) have been provided in yourvehicle to attach anchor hardware, if required.Tether anchor hardware kits (part number613D74), including instructions, may beobtained at no charge from any Ford or

Lincoln-Mercury dealer. All vehicles built forsale in Canada include a tether anchorhardware kit.

Safety Belts for ChildrenChildren who are too large for child safety seatsshould always wear safety belts. (See instructionswith your child seat, or contact its manufacturer, todetermine maximum size of child that will safely fitin the seat.)

WARNING

If safety belts are not properly wornand adjusted as described, the risk ofserious injury to the child in a collisionwill be much greater.

If the shoulder belt portion of the lap/shoulder beltcan be positioned so that it does not cross or restin front of the child’s face or neck, the child shouldwear the lap/shoulder belt. Moving the child closer


159

to the seat belt buckle may help provide a goodshoulder belt fit.

To improve the fit of lap and shoulder belts onchildren who have outgrown child safety seats, Fordrecommends use of a belt-positioning booster seatthat is labelled as conforming to all Federal motorvehicle safety standards. Belt-positioning boosterseats raise the child and provide a shorter, firmerseating cushion that encourages safer seating postureand better fit of lap and shoulder belts on the child.A belt-positioning booster should be used if theshoulder belt rests in front of the child’s face orneck, or if the lap belt does not fit snugly on boththighs, or if the thighs are too short to let the childsit all the way back on the seat cushion when thelower legs hang over the edge of the seat cushion.You may wish to discuss the specific needs of yourchild with your pediatrician.

WARNING

Do not use a belt-positioning boosterwith a lap-only belt.

Lap belts and the lap belt portion of lap andshoulder belts should always be worn snugly andbelow the hips, touching the child’s thighs.

WARNING

Children should always ride with theseatback in the fully upright position.


161

Starting

Fuel-Injected EnginesWhen starting a fuel-injected engine, the mostimportant thing to remember is to avoidpressing down on the accelerator before orduring starting. Only use the accelerator when youhave problems getting your vehicle started. SeeStarting Your Engine in this chapter for detailsabout when to use the accelerator while you startyour vehicle.

Starting Your VehiclePreparing to Start Your Vehicle

WARNING

Do not start your vehicle in a closedgarage or in other enclosed areas.Exhaust fumes can be toxic. Alwaysopen the garage door before you startthe engine.

Before you start your vehicle, do the following:

1. Make sure all occupants in the vehicle buckletheir safety belts. See Safety Restraints in theIndex for more details.

2. Make sure the headlamps and other accessoriesare turned off when starting.

File:08fntot.exUpdate:Mon Jun 17 13:51:45 1996

162

3. Make sure that the gearshift is in P (Park) andthe parking brake is set before you turn thekey.

Before you start your vehicle, you should test thewarning lights on the instrument panel to makesure that they work. Refer to the Instrumentationchapter.

Starting Your EngineTo start your engine:

1. Follow the steps under Preparing to Start YourVehicle at the beginning of this section.

2. Turn the ignition key to the ON position.

3. DO NOT depress the accelerator pedal whenstarting your engine. DO NOT use theaccelerator while the vehicle is parked.

4. Turn the key to the START position (cranking)until the engine starts. Allow the key to returnto the ON position after the engine has started.

If you have difficulty in turning the key, rotatethe steering wheel slightly because it may bebinding.

For a cold engine:

❑ At temperatures 10˚F (-12˚C) and below: Ifthe engine does not start in fifteen (15)seconds on the first try, turn the key to OFF,wait approximately ten (10) seconds so you donot flood the engine, then try again.

❑ At temperatures above 10˚F (-12˚C): If theengine does not start in five (5) seconds onthe first try, turn the key to OFF, waitapproximately ten (10) seconds so you do notflood the engine, then try again.


163

For a warm engine:

❑ Do not hold the key in the START position formore than five (5) seconds at a time. If theengine does not start within five (5) seconds onthe first try, turn the key to the OFF position.Wait a few seconds after the starter stops, thentry again.

Whenever you start your vehicle, release thekey as soon as the engine starts. Excessivecranking could damage the starter.

After you start the engine, let it idle for a fewseconds. Keep your foot on the brake pedal andput the gearshift lever in gear. Release theparking brake. Slowly release the brake pedaland drive away in the normal manner.

NOTE: Your vehicle has an interlock thatprevents you from shifting out of P (Park)unless your foot is on the brake pedal.

If the engine does not start after twoattempts:

1. Turn the ignition key to the OFF position.

2. Press the accelerator all the way to the floorand hold it.

3. Turn the ignition key to the START position.

4. Release the ignition key when the engine starts.

5. Release the accelerator gradually as the enginespeeds up.

If the engine still does not start, the fuel pumpshut-off switch may have been activated. Fordirections on how to reset the switch see FuelPump Shut-Off Switch in the index.


164

A computer system controls the engine’s idlespeed. When you start your vehicle, theengine’s idle speed normally runs higher thanwhen it is warmed up. These faster enginespeeds will make your vehicle move slightlyfaster than its normal idle speed. It should,however, slow down after a short time. If itdoes not, have the idle speed checked.

If the engine idle speed does not slow downautomatically, do not allow your vehicle to idlefor more than 10 minutes. Have the vehiclechecked.

WARNING

Extended idling at high engine speedscan produce very high temperatures inthe engine and exhaust system, creatingthe risk of fire or other damage.

WARNING

Do not park, idle, or drive your vehiclein dry grass or other dry ground cover.The emission system heats up theengine compartment and exhaustsystem, which can start a fire.

Engine Block Heater (If equipped)Engine block heaters are strongly recommended ifyou live in a region where temperatures reach -10˚F(-23˚C) or below. An engine block heater warmsthe engine coolant, which improves starting, warmsup the engine faster, and allows the heater-defrostsystem to respond quickly.

To turn the heater on, simply plug it into agrounded 110-volt outlet. Ford recommends thatyou use a 110-volt circuit that is protected by aground fault circuit interrupter.


165

WARNING

To prevent electrical shock, do not useyour heater with ungrounded electricalsystems or two-pronged (cheater)adapters.

For best results, plug the heater in at least threehours before you start your vehicle. Using theheater for longer than three hours will not damagethe engine, so you can plug it in at night to startyour vehicle the following morning.

PushingVehicles with automatic transmissions cannot bestarted by pushing. Follow the directions under IfYour Vehicle Needs a Jump-Start in the RoadsideEmergencies Chapter.

Guarding Against Exhaust FumesCarbon monoxide, although colorless and odorless,is present in exhaust fumes. Take precautions toavoid its dangerous effects.

WARNING

Do not start your vehicle in a closedgarage or in other enclosed areas.Exhaust fumes can be toxic. Alwaysopen the garage door before you startthe engine.

WARNING

If you smell exhaust fumes inside yourvehicle, have your dealer inspect yourvehicle immediately. Do not drive ifyou smell exhaust fumes.


166

Have the exhaust and body ventilation systemschecked whenever:

❑ your vehicle is raised for service

❑ the sound of the exhaust system changes

❑ your vehicle has been damaged in a collision

Improve your ventilation by keeping all air inletvents clear of snow, leaves, and other debris.

If the engine is idling while you are stopped in anopen area for long periods of time, open thewindows at least one inch (2.5 cm). Also, adjustthe heating or air conditioning system to bring inoutside air.

If you use the Electronic Automatic ClimateControl, set the fan speed selector dial to a mediumor high blower speed with the VENT or FLR & DEFfunction buttons pressed.


167

Driving

BrakesApplying the BrakesYour vehicle has anti-lock disc brakes on all fourwheels. They adjust automatically as the brake padswear down.

When you press down hard on the brake pedal, thewheels will not lock and slide. The Anti-lock BrakeSystem (ABS) automatically starts releasing andreapplying the front brakes independently and therear brakes together whenever your wheels start tolock. When this happens, you will feel the brakepedal pulsate. This is an indication that the ABS isworking correctly and is normal.

Do not drive with your foot resting on the brakepedal; you will wear out the linings and increaseyour vehicle’s stopping distance. Brake rotor damagemay also eventually occur.

NOTE: If you are driving down a long or steep hill,shift to a lower gear and do not apply your brakescontinuously. If you apply your brakes continuously,they may overheat and become less effective.

Occasional brake squeal during light to moderatestops does not affect the function of the brakesystem and is normal. However, if the squealbecomes louder or more frequent, have your brakesinspected by your dealer or a qualified servicetechnician.

Ford Motor Company has not found anydetrimental effects of popular mobile radiotransmitting equipment installed on vehicles withthe anti-lock brake system, if the equipment isinstalled according to the manufacturer’sinstructions. However, if mobile radio transmittingequipment is installed in your vehicle and, if eitherthe anti-lock brake system cycles or the ANTI-LOCK

File:09fngft.exUpdate:Mon Jun 17 13:52:03 1996

168

light comes on at any time other than right afteryou turn the key to the ON position or during asudden stop, have your mobile radio dealer inspectthe installation.

Parking BrakeThe parking brake should be used wheneveryou park your vehicle.

The parking brake is suspended just below thelower left corner of the instrument panel.

To set the parking brake:

1. Move the gearshifter to P (Park).

2. Push the parking brake pedal down firmly andfully with your left foot.

The Brake System Light in the warning lights willglow once the parking brake is set.

The parking brake

WARNING



169

WARNING

If the parking brake is fully released,but the Brake System light remains on,have the brakes checked immediately.They may not be working properly.

WARNING

To prevent personal injury, do notrelease the parking brake while outsidethe vehicle.

Your vehicle has an automatic parking brakerelease. As you move the gearshift selector to anyforward gear with the engine running, the parkingbrake automatically releases. Your parking brake willnot release automatically when you shift into R(Reverse). To release the parking brake manually,

pull the brake release handle [marked (P)] locatedon the lower left corner of the instrument panel.The pedal is now released and will reset the nexttime you press the pedal. The Brake SystemWarning Light will glow if the parking brake is notfully released when the engine is running.

The parking brake is not designed to stop a movingvehicle, but you can use the parking brake to stopyour vehicle in an emergency if the normal brakesfail. However, since the parking brake applies onlythe rear brakes, the stopping distance will increasegreatly and the handling of your vehicle will beadversely affected.

Always check the Brake Warning Light each timeyou start your engine. Driving with the parkingbrake on will cause the brakes to wear out quicklyand will reduce the fuel economy.


170

Traction AssistTM (If equipped)Your vehicle may be equipped with the optionalTraction AssistTM system. This system helps preventwheel spin in order to improve tire traction and isan especially useful feature when you drive in hillyareas or on slippery, icy or snowy roads.

Traction AssistTM works automatically by rapidlyapplying and releasing the brakes to prevent one orboth of the rear drive wheels from spinning duringacceleration.

During the Traction AssistTM function, which mostoften occurs during low speed acceleration onslippery surfaces, a noise may be heard coming fromthe engine compartment. This is normal and maylast for a few seconds during the acceleration of thevehicle.

In general, this system improves your vehicle’sstability and acceleration performance when roadconditions warrant. Traction AssistTM is fullyeffective up to approximately 25 mph (40 km/h).

At 25 mph (40 km/h) the function begins to taperoff until it no longer operates above 34 mph(55 km/h).

If the Traction Assis;TM system is cycled excessively,the system will shut down to prevent the rearbrakes from overheating. A cooling down period isrequired to prevent damage to the brakes. This timeperiod varies and depends on brake usage duringthe cooling down period. Anti-Lock braking is notaffected and will function normally during the cooldown period.

After the cool down period, the Traction AssistTM

function is restored.%

Rear Air Suspension SystemYour vehicle is equipped with an automatic loadleveling rear air suspension system. This systemmaintains the rear vehicle height at a constant levelby automatically adding air or releasing air from therear air springs to offset changes in vehicle loads.


171

A shutoff switch is located in the trunk on the righthand vertical trim panel. If this switch is in theOFF position, the automatic leveling system will notoperate. The switch should be OFF wheneverhoisting, towing or jacking up the vehicle. “CHECKAIR SUSPENSION” will appear in the messagecenter when the ignition switch is in the ONposition, and either the shutoff switch is in the OFFposition, or a system fault has been detected.

Normal vehicle operation does not require anyaction by the driver.

The air suspension switch — located in thetrunk on the right-hand vertical trim panel


172

The Steering Assist Switch (if equipped), located onthe instrument panel, allows the driver to selecthow the steering effort changes with vehicle speed.In the standard position, the steering effort increasesat about the same rates as the vehicle speedincreases. If the driver prefers lighter steering efforts,the switch should be in the “LO” position wheresteering effort will remain low, until highway speedsare reached. If the driver prefers heavier steeringefforts, the switch should be in the “HI” positionwhere steering effort will increase at lower speeds.

Effort vs. vehicle speed chart

NOTE: The Steering Assist Switch position will notchange the steering efforts when the vehicle isstopped or at very low speeds (0-10 mph,0-16 km/h).


173

Steering Your VehicleYour vehicle comes with power steering. Powersteering uses energy from the engine to help steeryour vehicle.

The steering system in your vehicle is speedsensitive. This means that the steering effort is lightfor parking and heavier for highway driving.However, if you have to swerve around an objector another vehicle, your steering will have fullpower assist.

Never hold the steering wheel to the extreme rightor left for more than five seconds if the engine isrunning. This can damage the power steering pump.

If the amount of effort needed to steer your vehiclechanges at a constant vehicle speed, have thepower steering system checked. If the powersteering system breaks down (or if the engine isturned off), you can steer the vehicle manually butit takes more effort.

Driving with an AutomaticOverdrive TransmissionThe automatic overdrive transmission operates verymuch like a regular automatic transmission, exceptit offers the extra overdrive feature.

Putting Your Vehicle in Gear

WARNING

Hold the brake pedal down while youmove the gearshift lever from positionto position. If you do not hold thebrake pedal down, your vehicle maymove unexpectedly and injure someone.

To move the shifter out of P (Park), the ignitionkey must be turned to the ON position. Thisvehicle is also equipped with the brake shiftinterlock safety feature which prevents shifting the


174

transmission out of the P (Park) position withoutthe brake pedal being depressed if the key is in theON position.

To operate:

1. Start the engine.

2. Depress and hold the brake pedal.

Your vehicle is equipped with a Brake ShiftInterlock safety feature. This feature prevents thegearshift from being moved from the P (Park)position until the brake pedal is depressed. Thisfeature is active when the ignition is in the ONposition. If the gearshift lever CANNOT be movedfrom P (Park) with the brake pedal depressed:

1. Turn the engine off and remove the ignitionkey.

2. Apply parking brake.

3. Reinsert the ignition key and turn clockwise tothe first position.

4. Depress the brake pedal, move the gearshiftlever to N (Neutral) and start the engine.

If you need to shift out of P (Park) by using thealternate procedure described above, it is possiblethat a fuse has blown and that your brakelampsmay also not be functional. Please refer to theServicing Your Town Car chapter for instructions onchecking and replacing fuses.

WARNING

DO NOT DRIVE YOUR VEHICLEUNTIL YOU VERIFY THAT THEBRAKELAMPS ARE WORKING.

Once you place the gearshift securely into position,gradually release the brake pedal and use theaccelerator as necessary.


175

R (Reverse)With the gearshift in the R (Reverse) position, thevehicle will move backward. You should alwayscome to a complete stop before shifting into or outof R (Reverse).

N (Neutral)With the gearshift in the N (Neutral) position, thevehicle can be started and is free to roll. Hold thebrake pedal down while in this position.

DrivingYour vehicle’s gearshift is on the steering column.The Transmission Control Switch (TCS) is locatedon the end of the gearshift lever. The TransmissionControl Indicator Light (OVERDRIVE OFF) islocated on the instrument panel. You can put thegearshift lever in any of the several positions.

The OVERDRIVE OFF light is off (not illuminated)during normal vehicle operation. This allows thetransmission to upshift and downshift from 1st

through 4th gears. When the TCS is pressed, theTransmission Control Indicator Light will illuminate(OVERDRIVE OFF) on the instrument panel. Whenthis OVERDRIVE OFF is illuminated thetransmission will upshift and downshift from 1stthrough 3rd gears.

If OVERDRIVE OFF light does not come “ON”when TCS is depressed or if the light flashes whenyou are driving, have your vehicle serviced at thefirst opportunity. If this condition persists, damagecould occur to the transmission.

To return the transmission to normal operation (1stthrough 4th gear) depress the TCS again. Thisswitch may be used to cancel overdrive any timethe vehicle is being driven. Each time your vehicleis started, the overdrive system will automatically bein the normal overdrive mode and the light will notbe illuminated.


176

Overdrive is the usual driving position for anautomatic overdrive transmission. It works the sameway Drive works, automatically upshifting ordownshifting as the vehicle speeds or slows.

However, Overdrive also shifts into a fourth gear —an overdrive gear — when your vehicle cruises atan appropriate consistent speed for any length oftime. This fourth gear will increase your fueleconomy when you travel at cruising speeds.

When to use Drive (j — withTransmission Control Switch activated)Overdrive may not be appropriate for certainterrain. If the transmission shifts back and forthbetween Third and Fourth gears while you aredriving on hilly roads or if your vehicle does nothave adequate power for climbing hills, depress theTCS.

You can depress the TCS at any speed.

When to use 2 (Second)Use 2 (Second) for start-up on slippery roads or togive you more engine braking to slow your vehicleon downgrades.

When to use 1 (Low)Use 1 (Low) when driving down steep grades. Itgives more engine braking to slow your vehicle than2 (Second) on the downgrades. You can upshiftfrom 1 (Low) to 2 (Second) or from 1 (Low) toOverdrive at any speed.

P (Park)Always come to a complete stop before you shiftinto P (Park). Make sure that the gearshift issecurely latched in P (Park). This locks thetransmission and prevents the rear wheels fromrotating.


177

WARNING


WARNING

Never leave your vehicle unattendedwhile it is running.

You can tell a column-mounted gearshift is securelylatched in P (Park) if the lever is adjacent to the P(Park) and you cannot move it without pulling ittoward you and rotating it downward.

Driving With a Heavy LoadThere are limits to the amount of weight yourvehicle can carry or tow. The total weight of yourvehicle, plus the weight of the passengers and

cargo, should never be more than the Gross VehicleWeight Rating (GVWR). Also, the weight that yourvehicle carries over the front axle and rear axleshould never be more than the Gross Axle WeightRating (GAWR) for the respective axle.

You can find your vehicle’s GVWR and GAWR onthe Safety Compliance Certification Label on the leftfront door lock facing or on the door latch postpillar.

The weight limits of your vehicle’s tires affect theGVWR or GAWR limitations. Usage of replacementtires with higher weight limits than originals doesnot increase GVWR or GAWR. Usage of lowercapacity replacement tires may lower GVWR andGAWR limitations.

WARNING

Do not exceed the GVWR or theGAWR specified on the SafetyCompliance Certification Label.


178

Limiting Your Vehicle’s LoadThe load that you add to your vehicle must notexceed the maximum load stated on the SafetyCompliance Certification Decal attached to the leftfront door pillar.

To figure the weight of your vehicle’s load, add theweights of:

❑ the driver and passengers

❑ luggage and any other items that you put inyour vehicle

❑ the tongue load of the loaded trailer

❑ the weight of any equipment that has beenadded to your vehicle since it was delivered toyour dealer

If you do not know the actual weights of theseitems, use the following procedure to figure theweight of a load:

1. Weigh your vehicle without the driver,passengers and luggage. You might take yourvehicle to a shipping company or an inspectionstation for trucks.

2. Then weigh your vehicle with the driver,passengers and luggage.

3. Subtract the first reading from the second tofigure the total weight of the load.


179

After determining this load, you must also makesure that the total weight of your vehicle, plus theload it carries, is less than its GVWR. Also, makesure that the weight your vehicle carries over eachaxle is less than the GAWR for the respective axle.

If your vehicle exceeds the GVWR, remove cargofrom your vehicle accordingly. If your vehicleexceeds the GAWR for either axle, shift the load orremove cargo accordingly.

WARNING

Improper distribution of your vehicle’sload or carrying weight in excess of theamount shown on the tire decal cancause rapid tire wear or loss of vehiclecontrol.

Trailer TowingYour vehicle is not equipped to tow. No towingpackages are available through Ford orLincoln/Mercury dealers.


181

Roadside Emergencies

The flashers work whether your vehicle is runningor not. The flashers work for up to two hourswhen the battery is fully charged and in goodcondition without draining the battery excessively. Ifthe flashers run for longer than two hours or if thebattery is not fully charged, the battery can bedrained.

If the Engine Cranks but DoesNot Start or Does Not Start Aftera Collision

Fuel Pump Shut-off SwitchIf the engine cranks but does not start even after asmall collision, the fuel pump shut-off switch mayhave been actuated. The shut-off switch is a deviceintended to stop the fuel pump when your vehiclehas been involved in a substantial jolt.

Once the shut-off switch is actuated, you must resetthe switch by hand before you can start yourvehicle. The switch is on the left side of the trunk.

File:10fnert.exUpdate:Thu Jun 20 15:16:36 1996

182

Fuel pump shut-off switch

WARNING

If you see or smell fuel, do not resetthe switch or try to start your vehicle.Have all the passengers get out of thevehicle and call the local firedepartment or a towing service.

If your engine cranks but does not start after acollision or substantial jolt:

1. Turn the ignition key to the OFF position.

2. Check under the vehicle for leaking fuel.

3. If you do not see or smell fuel, push the redreset button down. If the button is already set,you may have a different mechanical problem.

4. Turn the ignition key to the ON position for afew seconds, then turn it to the OFF position.


183

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

Fuses and Circuit BreakersFuses (conventional and high current) and circuitbreakers protect your vehicle’s wiring system fromoverloading. If electrical parts in your vehicle arenot working, the system may have been overloadedand blown a fuse or tripped a circuit breaker.Before you replace or repair any electrical parts,check the appropriate fuses (conventional and highcurrent) or circuit breakers.

The following charts tell you which fuses or circuitbreakers protect the wiring for each electrical partof your vehicle. If a fuse blows or a circuit breakeropens a circuit, all the parts of your vehicle thatuse that circuit will not work.

Once you have determined which fuses or circuitbreakers to check, follow the procedures underChecking and replacing fuses or Checking andreplacing circuit breakers in this chapter.


184

The instrument panel fuse panel location The instrument panel fuse panel


185

The Instrument Panel Fuses, Circuit Breakers and Relays


186


187

High Current FusesHigh current fuses are circuit protectors that arepart of the wiring harness for some electricalequipment. These, like fuses, open when the circuitload exceeds their amperage rating. High currentfuses may be purchased from your Ford orLincoln-Mercury dealer.

The high current fuse panel is located in the enginecompartment on the left-hand fender apron.

WARNING

Always disconnect the battery beforeservicing high current fuses.

Ford recommends that high current fuses bereplaced by a qualified technician.


188

The high current fuse panel location The high current fuses


189

The high current fuses


190

Checking and Replacing FusesIf you need to check a fuse, follow these steps:

1. Find the fuse panel to the left of the steeringcolumn in the instrument panel.

2. Find the fuse you want to check (fuses arenumbered on the fuse panel) and remove itwith the fuse pulling tool that is provided.

3. Check the fuse to see if it is blown. Lookthrough the clear side of the fuse to see if themetal wire inside is separated. If it is, the fuseshould be replaced.

The side view of a Blade type fuse

The side view of a high current fuse


191

4. Replace the fuse with one that has the rightamperage rating. (See the following charts.) ARNING

Always replace a fuse with one that hasthe specified amperage rating. Using afuse with a higher amperage rating cancause severe wire damage and couldstart a fire.

5. Replace the cover.

Even after you replace a fuse, it may continue toblow if you do not find what caused the overload.If the fuse continues to blow, have your electricalsystem checked.

Circuit BreakersSince you need diagnostic equipment to checkwhether a circuit breaker works and suchequipment comes with instructions, we do notdiscuss how to check circuit breakers.


192

However, you should know that the circuit breakerswill reset themselves and allow the electrical partsto work again once the overload on the circuit isremoved. If the circuit breakers continue to cut offelectricity, have your car’s electical system checked.

If you replace a circuit breaker, use one with thesame amperage rating. To remove a circuit breakermounted in the fuse panel, grip it with your fingerand thumb and pull it straight out of its socket.

If you need to check a circuit breaker that is on thefuse panel, see Checking and replacing fuses in thischapter to find out how to locate the fuse panel.

Changing a TireIf you get a flat tire while you are driving, do notapply the brake heavily. Instead, gradually decreasethe speed. Hold the steering wheel firmly andslowly move to a safe place on the side of the road.Park on a level spot, turn off the ignition, set theparking brake, and turn on the hazard flashers.

The Temporary Spare TireYou may have a high pressure temporary spare tire.This spare tire is smaller than a regular tire and isdesigned for emergency use only. Use it only whenyou get a flat tire and replace it as soon as you can.This spare tire is marked with the words“TEMPORARY USE ONLY” so that you can easilyidentify it.

NOTE: Extended use of other than conventionalspare tires on a Traction-Lok rear axle could resultin a permanent reduction in effectiveness. This lossof effectiveness does not affect normal driving andshould not be noticeable to the driver.

WARNING

If you use the temporary spare tirecontinuously or do not follow theseprecautions, the tire could fail, causingyou to lose control of the vehicle,possibly injuring yourself or others.


193

When you drive with the temporary spare tire,DO NOT:

❑ exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) under anycircumstances.

❑ load your vehicle so that it is heavier than themaximum vehicle load rating listed on the tiredecal.

❑ tow a trailer.

❑ use tire chains on this tire.

❑ try to repair the temporary spare tire or removeit from its wheel.

❑ use the wheel for any other type of vehicle.

❑ drive through an automatic car wash with thistire. Because the temporary spare tire is smallerthan a conventional tire, it reduces the groundclearance. Your vehicle may get caught in therails and it could be damaged.

The Conventional Spare TireIf you have the conventional spare tire, you can useit as a spare or as a regular tire. This spare tire isidentical to the other tires that come with yourvehicle, although the wheel may not match.

Spare Tire LocationThe spare tire is stored under the carpet on thefloor of the trunk.

You will find additional instructions for the sparetire on the warning label located on the wheel andthe jacking instructions located on the spare tirecover.


194

The spare tire location

To remove the spare tire:

1. Remove the spare tire cover.

2. Unscrew the wing-nut holding down the sparetire.

3. Lift out the spare tire and jack kit.

Preparing to Change the Tire1. Make sure that your vehicle will not move or

roll. Put the gearshift in P (Park). Set theparking brake and block the wheel that isdiagonally opposite the tire that you arechanging.

Turn off the air suspension switch prior tojacking.


195

WARNING

On vehicles equipped with AirSuspension, turn OFF the AirSuspension switch prior to jacking,hoisting or towing your vehicle.

The air suspension switch — located in thetrunk

WARNING

If the vehicle slips off the jack, you orsomeone else could be seriouslyinjured.

2. Get out the spare tire and jack.

WARNING

To avoid injury, never run the enginewith one wheel off the ground, such aswhen changing a tire.

3. Remove the center ornament from thealuminum wheel with the tapered end of thewheel nut wrench which came with yourvehicle. Insert and twist the handle, then pryagainst the wheel.


196

4. Loosen each wheel lug nut one-half turncounterclockwise, but do not remove themuntil the tire is raised off the ground. Youshould pull up on the handle rather than pushto develop maximum force to loosen wheel lugnuts. See Anti-Theft Wheel Lug Nuts later inthis chapter for information on removinganti-theft lug nuts.

Removing and Replacing the Tire1. Place the scissors-type jack under the side of

the vehicle and adjust the jack height with thejack handle. The jack should fit in the notch inthe vertical rocker panel flange which is nearestto the wheel to be changed.

WARNING

To lessen the risk of personal injury,do not put any part of your body underthe vehicle while changing a tire. Donot start the engine when your vehicleis on the jack. The jack is only meantfor changing the tire.


197

The improper lift point

NOTE: Never use the differential housing as a liftpoint.

NOTE: Apply jack to the jack notch in the verticalflange only. Do not apply to the plastic rocker panelwhich has indicating notches and is outboard of theflange.

Jacking locations


198

Locating the notch for the jack — rear wheels

Locating the notch for the jack — front wheels

2. Turn the jack handle clockwise until the wheelclears the ground. Remove the wheel lug nuts.

3. If you are replacing the front tire (withaluminum wheels) with the temporary sparetire, you need to remove the black dust shield.Gently pull the shield over the rubber o-ringsand slide it off the wheel studs. Because therubber o-rings are soft, they should passthrough the holes in the shield. If the rings donot pass through the holes, remove them fromthe wheel studs. Save the black dust shield forfuture use, and ensure the rubber o-rings areremoved from wheel studs.

4. Replace the flat tire with the spare tire, makingsure that the air valve stem is facing outward.

5. Reinstall the lug nuts, tightening until thewheel is snug against the hub. The bevelededges on the lug nuts face inward. Do not fullytighten the lug nuts until you lower thevehicle. If you do, you could force the vehicleoff the jack.


199

6. Lower the vehicle by turning the jack handlecounterclockwise.

7. Remove the jack and fully tighten the lug nutsin the order shown in the following illustration.As soon as possible, have your dealer or aqualified service technician check the lug nutsfor proper torque specifications.

The lug nuts on the wheel

8. Place any ornaments in the trunk.

9. Put the tire, jack, and wrench away. Make surethe jack is securely fastened so it does notrattle when you drive.

10. Unblock the wheels.

11. Turn on the air suspension switch.

After replacing a flat tire with the temporary sparetire, the flat tire can be secured in the trunk tub byplacing the “J” hook through a lug nut hole in thewheel with the tire and wheel lying at an angle.

Installation of the black dust shield.When installing the regular tire, reinstall the blackdust shield by orienting and sliding the shield untilit is flush with the hub/rotor assembly.


200

Aluminum wheel

Lacy spoke aluminum wheel

Remove the center ornament from the wheel withthe tapered end of the wheel nut wrench byinserting the end under one of two raised notches,and rotate the handle while prying against thewheel.

Install the center ornament on the wheel and besure it is snapped into place all the way aroundusing the palm of the hand or a rubber mallet.


201

Y-spoke aluminum wheel

Y-spoke aluminum wheel

Remove the center ornament from the wheel withthe tapered end of the wheel nut wrench byinserting the end into the notch and, rotate thehandle while prying against the wheel.

Install the center ornament on the wheel and besure it is snapped into place all the way aroundusing the palm of the hand or a rubber mallet.


202

Steel wheel with full wheelcover

Steel wheel with full wheelcover

Remove the wheelcover from the wheel using theflanged end of the wheel nut wrench by insertingthe handle and then prying against the innerwheelcover flange.

Install the wheelcover on the wheel with the valvestem in the wheel matching the hole in thewheelcover. Push by hand on the outside edges ofthe wheelcover until it is snapped firmly in place onthe wheel.

NOTE: DO NOT USE A STEEL HAMMER.

If you have the anti-theft locking spoked wheelcover, each wheel cover has a lock bolt behind thecenter hub ornament. You need a special keywrench (stored in the glove box) to pry thisornament off and to remove the lock bolt. Do notlose this wrench or you will not be able to removethe wheel cover.


203

The key wrench has a registration number attachedto it. Keep the registration number in a safe place.Complete the registration card and return it to themanufacturer as soon as you buy the vehicle. Toreplace the key wrench, send the I.D. card to themanufacturer.

Anti-Theft Wheel Lug Nuts(If equipped)If your vehicle has this option, one of the lug nutson each wheel locks and must be unlocked with aspecial key. The key and registration card areattached to the lug wrench and stored with thespare tire. If you lose the key, send the registrationcard to the manufacturer (not the dealer) to get areplacement key.

NOTE: If entire lug wrench/lug nut key assemblyis lost, see your nearest Ford or Lincoln-Mercurydealer who has access to a master set of keys.

NOTE: DO NOT USE A POWER IMPACTWRENCH ON THE LUG NUT KEY.

The anti-theft lug nut and key

Removing the anti-theft lug nutInsert the key over the locking lug nut. Make surethat you hold the key square to the lug nut. If youhold the key on an angle, you may damage the keyand the lug nut.

Place the lug nut wrench over the lug nut key andapply pressure on the key with the wrench. Turnthe wrench in a counterclockwise direction toremove the lug nut.


204

Reinstalling the anti-theft lug nutInsert the key over the locking lug nut. Place thelug nut wrench over the lug nut key and, whileapplying pressure on the key, install the lug nut.

Jump-Starting Your VehicleYour vehicle’s battery may die if you leave thelights on or any electrical equipment on after youturn the engine off. If this happens, you may beable to jump-start your vehicle with a boosterbattery.

WARNING

The gases around the battery canexplode if exposed to flames, sparks, orlit cigarettes. An explosion could resultin injury or vehicle damage.

WARNING

To protect yourself when charging abattery, always shield your face andeyes. Make sure that you can breathefresh air.

WARNING

Applying too much pressure on theends when lifting a battery could causeacid to spill. Lift the battery with acarrier or with your hands on theopposite corners.

WARNING

Batteries contain sulfuric acid whichburns skin, eyes, and clothing.


205

If the acid touches someone’s skin, eyes, orclothing, immediately flush the area with water forat least 15 minutes. If someone swallows the acid,have him or her drink lots of milk or water first,then Milk of Magnesia, a beaten egg, or vegetableoil. Call a doctor immediately.

To avoid damaging your vehicle or your battery,and to avoid injury to yourself, follow thesedirections for preparing your vehicle to jump-startand connecting the jumper cables in the order theyare given. If in doubt, call for road service.

Preparing Your Vehicle1. Your vehicle has a 12-volt starting system, so

you need to use a 12-volt jumper system. Youwill damage your starting motor, ignitionsystem, and other electrical parts if you connectthem to a 24-volt power supply (either two12-volt batteries in series or a 24-volt generatorset).

2. Do not disconnect the battery of the disabledvehicle. You could damage the vehicle’selectrical system.

3. Park the booster vehicle close to the hood ofthe disabled vehicle. Make sure the vehiclesdo not touch each other. Set the parkingbrake on both vehicles and stay clear of theengine cooling fan and other moving parts.

4. Check all battery terminals and remove anyexcessive corrosion before you attach thejumper cables.

5. Turn on the heater fan in both vehicles. Pressthe DEFROST button. Turn off all otherswitches and gauges.


206

Connecting the jumper cables

1. Connect one end of the first jumper cable tothe positive (+) terminal of the dischargedbattery. (You can connect either jumper cableto the positive (+) terminal, as long as you usethe same cable for both positive terminals.)Most jumper cables have a red cable and ablack cable. The red cable is generally used forthe positive terminals and the black for thenegative ones.

2. Connect the other end of the first cable to thepositive (+) terminal of the booster battery.

3. Connect one end of the second cable to thenegative (s) terminal of the booster battery —NOT to the discharged battery.

4. Connect the other end of the second cable to agood metallic surface on the engine or frame ofthe disabled vehicle.

WARNING

Do not connect the end of the secondcable to the negative (s) terminal of thebattery to be jumped. A spark maycause an explosion of the gases thatsurround the battery.


207

The 4.6L SFI engine


208

Jump-Starting1. Make sure that the jumper cables are not in

the way of moving engine parts, then start thebooster vehicle. Run the engine at a moderatespeed.

2. Let the discharged battery charge for a fewminutes and then start the disabled vehicle. Itmay take a couple of tries before the vehiclestarts. If the vehicle does not start after severalattempts, there may be a different problem.

3. When both vehicles are running, let them idlefor a few minutes to charge the dischargedbattery.

Removing jumper cables

1. Always remove the jumper cables in thereverse order. Remove the negative (s) endof the jumper cable from the metallic surfaceon the engine or frame of the disabled vehicle.

2. Remove the negative (s) cable from thebooster battery.

3. Remove the positive (+) cable from the boosterbattery.

4. Remove the other end of the positive (+) cablefrom the discharged battery.

After the vehicle is started, let it idle for a while tolet the engine “relearn” its idle conditions. Drive itaround for a while with all electrical accessoriesturned off to let the battery recharge. Driveabilitymay be deteriorated slightly until all drive modesare “relearned.” You may need to use a batterycharger to fully recharge the battery.

If you need to replace your battery, see Battery inthe Maintenance and Care chapter.


209

Towing Your VehicleIf you need to have your vehicle towed, contact aprofessional towing service or, if you are a member,your roadside assistance center. Typical towingoptions include wheel lift towing or flat bed towing.

Front towing

Before your vehicle can be towed, the airsuspension switch in the luggage compartmentneeds to be turned to the OFF position. It isrecommended that your Town Car be towed withwheel lift or flatbed equipment. If slingbeltequipment must be used, the towbar will deformthe soft fascia (bumper). However, it will return toan acceptable shape.


210

Rear towing

When calling for a tow truck, tell the operator whatkind of vehicle you have. A towing manual isavailable from Ford Motor Company for allauthorized tow truck operators. Have your towtruck driver refer to this manual for the properhook-up and towing procedures for your vehicle.


211

Maintenance and Care

Service Made EasyFord has two goals for servicing your vehicle.

1. When we can, we design parts that do notneed to be serviced.

2. We want to make servicing your vehicle aseasy as possible. To help you:

❑ We highlight do-it-yourself items in yellow inthe engine compartment so that you can findthem easily.

❑ When possible, we design parts that can bereplaced without tools.

❑ We give you a Maintenance Schedule thatmakes tracking routine service for your vehicleeasy. The maintenance schedule is located inthe Maintenance Schedule booklet.

This chapter tells you about the basic parts that youneed to check and service regularly.

If your vehicle needs professional servicing, yourdealership can provide the parts and servicerequired. Check your Warranty Information Bookletto find out which parts and services are covered.Also see the Customer Assistance chapter of thisOwner Guide.

Ford Motor Company recommends that the OwnerMaintenance Checks listed in the MaintenanceSchedule booklet be performed for the properoperation of your vehicle. In addition to theconditions listed in the Owner MaintenanceChecklist, be alert for any unusual noise, vibration,or other indication that your vehicle may needservice. If you do notice something unusual, seethat your vehicle is serviced promptly.

File:11fnmct.exUpdate:Mon Jun 17 13:54:56 1996

212

Use only recommended fuels, lubricants, fluids, andservice parts conforming to Ford specifications.Motorcraft parts are designed and built to providethe best performance in your vehicle. Using theseparts for replacement is your assurance thatFord-built quality stays in your vehicle.

NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive fluids ina responsible manner. Follow your community’sstandards for disposing of these types of fluids. Callyour local recycling center to find out aboutrecycling automotive fluids.

Accident DamageShould your vehicle suffer accident damagerequiring new sheet metal or plastic replacementparts, be sure your repair shop uses only genuineFord replacement parts.

While imitation body parts may appear similar togenuine Ford parts on the surface, differences inquality become obvious when both are subjected tostandard Ford quality tests.

Ford tests indicate that you should be concernedwith the quality of the fit and finish, corrosionresistance and structural integrity of these imitationreplacement parts, and how their use will affectyour warranty.

How Can You Protect Yourself?Before any repair work begins, tell your adjusterthat you want your vehicle repaired using onlygenuine Ford body parts. If the adjuster refuses,contact your insurance agent for help. If your agentand your insurance company refuse to repair yourvehicle with original factory parts, you shouldcontact your state insurance commissioner, theNational Highway Traffic Safety Administration or alocal consumer protection agency.

In Canada, contact provincial insurancecommissioners, Transport Canada or local consumerprotection groups.


213

Precautions When Servicing YourVehicleBe especially careful when inspecting or servicingyour vehicle. Here are some general precautions foryour safety:

❑ Do not work on a hot engine. The enginecooling fan may come on unexpectedly. Alwaysturn the engine off and let it cool.

❑ If you must work with the engine running,avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry thatcould get caught in moving parts. Takeappropriate precautions with long hair.

❑ Do not work on a vehicle in an enclosed spacewith the engine running, unless you are sureyou have enough ventilation.

❑ Never get under a vehicle while it is supportedby a jack only. If you must work under avehicle, use safety stands.

❑ Keep all lit cigarettes and other smokingmaterials away from the battery and allfuel-related parts.

If you disconnect the battery, the engine must“relearn” its idle conditions before your vehicle willdrive properly. To find out how the engine doesthis, see Battery in this chapter.

Working with the engine off:

1. Set the parking brake fully and make sure thatthe gearshift is securely latched in P (Park).

2. Remove the key from the ignition after youturn the engine off.

3. Block the wheels. This will prevent yourvehicle from moving unexpectedly.


214

Working with the engine on:

1. Set the parking brake fully and make sure thatthe gearshift is securely latched in P (Park).

2. Block the wheels. This will prevent yourvehicle from moving unexpectedly.

WARNING

Do not start your engine with the aircleaner removed and do not remove itwhile the engine is running.

WARNING

The cooling fan is automatic and maycome on at any time. Always disconnectthe negative terminal of the batterybefore working near the fan.

If the battery is disconnected, the computer mustrelearn its idle control. See Battery in the Index.

NOTE: The engine compartment light may beswitched on or off at the light assembly. The lightassembly is located on the hood on the driver’sside. To turn the light on, pull the switch towardyou; to turn it off, push it away from you. Theswitch may remain in the on position at all times,as the light will turn off when the hood is closed.


215

Opening the Hood1. Inside the vehicle, pull the hood release handle

located under the bottom left corner of theinstrument panel.

The hood release under the instrument panel

2. Go to the front of the vehicle and release theauxiliary latch that is located under the hood atthe center of the vehicle.

The auxiliary latch under the front edge of thehood


216

3. Lift the hood until the lift cylinders hold itopen.

Whenever you close the hood, latch it securely.

NOTE: Apply lubricant to the hood latch atsix-month intervals to maintain smooth andtrouble-free operation.

NOTE: Read and understand Precautions WhenServicing Your Vehicle at the beginning of thischapter before opening the hood.

Engine CompartmentYour vehicle has a 4.6 liter engine. The followingpage shows a diagram of where to find items thatyou should regularly service.


217

A 4.6 liter SFI engine


218

Engine Oil RecommendationsWe recommend using Motorcraft oil or anequivalent oil meeting Ford SpecificationWSS-M2C153-F and displaying the AmericanPetroleum Institute CERTIFICATION MARK on thefront of the container.

The API Certification Mark

Never use:

❑ “Non-Detergent” oils

❑ Oils labeled API SA, SB, SC, SD, SE, SF or SG

❑ Additional engine oil additives, oil treatments orengine treatments

Engine oils with an SAE 5W-30 viscosity arePREFERRED for your vehicle. They provide thebest engine performance, fuel economy and engineprotection for all climates down to -15˚F (-25˚C).

Synthetic engine oils which are CERTIFIED and ofthe preferred viscosity may be used in your engine.The engine oil and oil filter must still be changedaccording to the maintenance schedule.


219

Checking and Adding Engine OilSince the proper amount of engine oil is importantfor safe engine operation, check the oil using thedipstick each time you put fuel in your vehicle.Remember the engine must be off, the oil must bewarm and the vehicle must be parked on levelground.

Checking the engine oil level:

1. Turn the engine off after it has warmed up andallow a few minutes for the engine oil to drainback into the oil pan.

2. Set the parking brake, making sure the gearshiftis securely latched in P (Park).

3. Open the hood. Protect yourself from engineheat.

4. Locate the engine oil dipstick (highlighted inyellow) and carefully pull it out of the engine.

5. Wipe the dipstick clean and put it back intoposition, making sure it is fully seated.

Engine oil dipstick

6. Carefully pull the dipstick out again. If the oillevel is below the “ADD 1 QT” line, addengine oil as necessary. If the oil level isbeyond the letter “F” in Full, engine damage orhigh oil consumption may occur and some oilmust be removed from the engine.

7. Put the dipstick back in and make sure it isfully seated.


220

It may be necessary to add some oil between oilchanges. Make sure you use a CERTIFIED engineoil of the preferred viscosity. Your vehicle’swarranty coverage may not apply if engine damageis caused by the use of improper engine oil.

Add engine oil through the oil filler cap highlightedin yellow. To add oil, remove the filler cap and usea funnel to pour oil into the opening. Be careful notto overfill the engine. Recheck the oil level afteryou finish adding oil.

Changing the Engine Oil and the OilFilterRefer to the Maintenance Schedule booklet forrecommended intervals.

Change your engine oil and oil filter according tothese mileage and time requirements, whicheveroccurs first.

WARNING

Continuous contact with USED motoroil has caused cancer in laboratorymice.

Protect your skin by washing with soap and water.


221

Brake FluidUnder normal circumstances, your vehicle shouldnot use up brake fluid rapidly. However, expect thelevel of the brake fluid to slowly fall as you putmore mileage on your vehicle and the brake liningwears.

You should check the brake fluid at everyscheduled engine oil change, but be sure to checkit at least once a year. You can do this by lookingat the fluid level in the plastic reservoir on themaster cylinder. (See The Engine Type in thischapter to locate the master cylinder.) The fluidlevel should be at or near the MAX mark.

WARNING

Brake fluid is toxic.

If brake fluid contacts eyes, flush eyes with runningwater for 15 minutes. Get medical attention ifirritation persists. If taken internally, drink waterand induce vomiting. Get medical attentionimmediately.

If the fluid is low, carefully clean and remove thecap from the reservoir. Fill the reservoir to theMAX line with Ford High Performance DOT 3Brake Fluid C6AZ-19542-AB or equivalent DOT 3fluid meeting Ford specification ESA-M6C25-A.

WARNING

If you use a brake fluid that is notDOT 3, you will cause permanentdamage to your brakes.

Do not fill the reservoir above the MAX line.

If you find that the fluid level is excessively low —below the seam or ridge on the outside of theplastic reservoir — have the brake system inspected.


222

WARNING

Do not let the reservoir for the mastercylinder run dry. This may cause thebrakes to fail.

The anti-lock brake system fluid reservoir

Windshield Washer FluidWasher FluidCheck the level of the windshield washer fluidperiodically, or when the warning light indicateslow fluid. The reservoir for washer fluid is locatedon the driver’s side of the engine compartment.

The low windshield washer fluid warning lightcomes on when there is less than a quarter of thecontainer of washer fluid left. With the ignition ONthis light will flash five (5) times and a tone willsound for one (1) second, and then the light willremain on.


223

The reservoir for the windshield washer fluid

WARNING

Do not put windshield washer fluid inthe container for the engine coolant.

Use specially formulated windshield washer fluidrather than plain water, because speciallyformulated washer fluids contain additives thatdissolve road grime. For safety reasons, washerfluids containing an appropriate antifreeze such asmethanol should be used in freezing weather(temperatures below 32˚F [0˚C]). State or localregulations on Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)may restrict use of the most common antifreeze,methanol. Washer fluids containing non-methanolantifreeze agents should be used only if theyprovide cold weather protection without damagingthe vehicle’s paint finish, wiper blades, andwindshield washer system.


224

Engine CoolantChecking the Engine CoolantNOTE: Be sure to read and understandPrecautions When Servicing Your Vehicle at thebeginning of this chapter.

WARNING

The cooling fan is automatic and maycome on at any time. Always disconnectthe negative terminal of the batterybefore working near the fan.

The engine coolant reservoir


225

Your vehicle’s coolant protects your engine fromoverheating in the summer and from freezing in thewinter. Check the level of the coolant at least oncea month. Simply look at the engine coolantreservoir located in the engine compartment. Tolocate the reservoir, see the diagram of yourvehicle’s engine under Engine Type, in this chapter.

Check the engine coolant level in the enginecoolant reservoir at least once a month using thefollowing guidelines.

When your vehicle’s engine is cool, the coolantlevel in the engine coolant reservoir should be atthe COLD FILL level marked on the coolantreservoir. If the level is below the cold fill level,coolant may need to be added.

The coolant additives also protect the entire coolingsystem from internal passageway corrosion andthese additives lubricate the water pump. Thecoolant should be serviced as noted in theMaintenance Schedule booklet.

Adding Engine Coolant

WARNING

Do not put engine coolant in thecontainer for the windshield washerfluid.

If sprayed on the windshield, engine coolant couldmake it difficult to see through the windshield.

When the engine is cool, add a 50/50 mixture ofengine coolant and water to the engine coolantrecovery reservoir — DO NOT ADD DIRECTLY TOTHE RADIATOR. Add straight water only in anemergency, but you should replace it with a 50/50mixture of coolant and distilled water as soon aspossible.

Check the coolant level in the coolant recoveryreservoir the next few times you drive the vehicle.If necessary, add enough of a 50/50 mixture ofcoolant and water to bring the liquid level to thefill line on the reservoir.


226

WARNING

Never remove the coolant recovery capwhile the engine is running or hot.

If you must remove the coolant recovery cap,follow these steps to avoid personal injury:

1. Before you remove the cap, turn the engine offand let it cool.

2. When the engine is cool, wrap a thick clotharound the cap and turn it slowly,counterclockwise to the first stop.

3. Step back while the pressure releases.

4. When you are sure that all the pressure hasbeen released, use the cloth to press the capdown, turn it counterclockwise, and remove it.

Use Ford Premium Cooling System FluidE2FZ-19549-AA (in Canada, Motorcraft CXC-8-B) oran equivalent premium engine coolant that meets

Ford specification ESE-M97B44-A. Ford PremiumEngine Coolant is an optimized formula that willprotect all metals and rubber elastomers used inFord cooling systems for 4 years or 50,000 miles(80,000 km).

Do not use alcohol or methanol antifreeze or anyengine coolants mixed with alcohol or methanolantifreeze. Do not use supplemental coolantadditives in your vehicle. These additives may harmyour engine cooling system. The use of an impropercoolant may void the warranty of your vehicle’sengine cooling system.

Recycled engine coolantFord Motor Company recommends that Ford andLincoln-Mercury dealers use recycled engine coolantproduced by Ford-approved processes. Not allcoolant recycling processes produce coolant whichmeets Ford specification ESE-M97B44-A, and use ofsuch coolant may harm engine and cooling systemcomponents.


227

Always dispose of used automotive fluids in aresponsible manner. Follow your community’sregulations and standards for recycling and disposingof automotive fluids.

Coolant refill capacityTo find out how much fluid your vehicle’s coolingsystem can hold, refer to the Capacities andSpecifications chapter.

Have your dealer check the engine cooling systemfor leaks if you have to add more than a quart(liter) of engine coolant per month.

Severe winter climateIf you drive in extremely cold climates (less than-34˚F [-36˚C]), it may be necessary to increase thecoolant concentration above 50%. Refer to the charton the coolant container to ensure the coolantconcentration in your vehicle is such that thecoolant will not freeze at the temperature level inwhich you drive during winter months. Never

increase the engine coolant concentration above60%. Leave a 50/50 mixture of engine coolant andwater in your vehicle year-round in non-extremeclimates.

Proper procedures for a complete coolant drain andflush of the cooling system can be found in the CarService Manual. Following these recommendedprocedures will ensure that the specified coolantlevel and a 50/50 or appropriate mixture of coolantand water is maintained.

Engine Coolant Refill ProcedureWhen the entire cooling system is drained andrefilled, the following procedure should be used toensure a complete fill:

NOTE: It is imperative the following procedure beadhered to. Failure to do so could result in damageto your engine.


228

❑ With the engine OFF and cool, remove thepressure cap, located on the coolant reservoir.Remove the heater hose and clamp, located onthe rear of the intake manifold.

❑ Add a 50/50 mixture of specified coolant andwater to the coolant reservoir. Refer to RefillCapacities later in this chapter for the correctamount. Add coolant to the reservoir until thecoolant continuously flows out of the tube inthe rear of engine. Reattach hose and secureclamp.

❑ Reinstall the pressure cap to the fully installedposition.

❑ Start and idle the engine until the radiatorupper hose is warm (this indicates thethermostat is open and coolant is flowingthrough the entire system).

❑ Immediately shut off the engine and let cool.Cautiously remove the pressure relief cap andadd a 50/50 mixture of specified coolant andwater until the coolant is at the COLD FILLlevel in the coolant reservoir.

❑ Reinstall the pressure cap securely.

❑ Check for leaks at the draincock.

❑ Recheck the engine coolant level, using therecommended procedure, after one or twooccasions of vehicle use.


229

Power Steering FluidCheck the level of the power steering fluid at leasttwice a year (i.e., every Spring and Fall).

Checking and Adding Power SteeringFluid1. Start the engine and let it run until the power

steering fluid reaches normal operatingtemperature. The power steering fluid will be atthe right temperature when the engine coolanttemperature gauge in the instrument cluster isnear the center of the NORMAL operatingtemperature range.

2. While the engine idles, turn the steering wheelback and forth several times. Make sure thatthe cap assembly is installed at this time.

3. Turn the engine off and check the level on thepower steering reservoir.

4. The fluid level is viewed through the sightwindow on the power steering reservoir. If thepower steering fluid is below the middle line,add fluid in small amounts, continuouslychecking the level. Do not overfill.

Fluid level for power steering

Use only MERCONH ATF power steering fluid.


230

If the power steering fluid is low, do not drive yourvehicle for a long period of time before adding fluid.This can damage the power steering pump.

Automatic Transmission FluidUnder normal circumstances, you do not need tocheck the fluid level of the transmission, since yourvehicle does not use up transmission fluid. Refer tothe Maintenance Schedule booklet for replacementintervals. However, if the transmission is notworking properly — for instance, the transmissionmay slip or shift slowly, or you may notice somesign of fluid leakage — the fluid level should bechecked.

It is preferable to check the transmission fluid levelat normal operating temperature 150˚F-170˚F(66˚C-77˚C), after approximately 20 miles (30 km)of driving. However, if necessary, you can checkthe fluid level without having to drive 20 miles(30 km) to obtain a normal operating temperature ifoutside temperatures are above 50˚F (10˚C).

NOTE: If the vehicle has been operated for anextended period at high speeds or in city trafficduring hot weather, or pulling a trailer, the vehicleshould be turned off for about 30 minutes to allowthe fluid to cool before checking.

Checking the Automatic TransmissionFluidWith the vehicle on a level surface and the brakefully applied, start the engine and move the gearshift selector through all of the gears allowingsufficient time for each position to engage. Securelylatch the gear shift selector in the P (Park) position.Fully set the parking brake and leave the enginerunning.

NOTE: Your vehicle should not be driven if thefluid level is below the bottom hole on the dipstickand outside temperatures are above 50˚F (10˚C).

Wipe off the dipstick cap and pull the dipstick out.Wipe the indicator end clean. Put the dipstick backinto the filler tube and make sure it is fully seated.


231

Pull the dipstick out and read the fluid level.

When checking fluid at normal operatingtemperatures 150˚F-170˚F (66˚C-77˚C), the fluidlevel should be within the crosshatched area on thedipstick. When the vehicle has not been driven, andoutside temperatures are above 68˚F (20˚C), thefluid levels should be between the holes on thedipstick.

Adding Automatic Transmission FluidBefore adding any fluid, be sure that the correcttype will be used. Correct type is shown on thedipstick.

Add fluid in 1/2 pint (.25L) increments through thefiller tube to bring the level to the correct area onthe dipstick. DO NOT OVERFILL. If the level isabove the top hole on the dipstick, excess fluidshould be removed by a qualified technician.

NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive fluids ina responsible manner. Follow your community’sstandards for disposing of these types of fluids. Callyour local recycling center to find out aboutrecycling automotive fluids.

Automatic transmission dipstick


232

BatteryYour vehicle may have a Motorcraftmaintenance-free battery. When the originalequipment battery is replaced under warranty itmay be replaced by a low-maintenance battery. SeeMotorcraft Parts at the end of this chapter for theproper replacement battery.

The low-maintenance battery has removable ventcaps for checking the electrolyte level and addingwater. The electrolyte level should be checked atleast every 24 months or 24,000 miles(40,000 km) in temperatures up to 90˚F (32˚C)and more often in temperatures above 90˚F (32˚C).Keep the electrolyte level in each cell up to thelevel indicator. Do not overfill.

If the level gets low, refill the battery with distilledwater. If necessary, you can add tap water to thebattery, provided the water is not hard or does nothave a high mineral or alkali content. If the batteryneeds water quite often, have the charging systemchecked for a possible malfunction.

Help Us Protect Our EnvironmentFord Motor Company strongly recommends thatused lead-acid batteries be returned to anauthorized recycling facility for disposal.

Battery recycling symbol

Because your vehicle’s engine is electronicallycontrolled by a computer, some control conditionsare maintained by power from the battery. If youever disconnect the battery or install a new battery,you must allow the computer to “relearn” its idleconditions before your vehicle will drive properly.To let the engine do this, put the gearshift in P(Park), turn off all the accessories, and start the


233

vehicle. Let the engine idle for at least one minute.(Engine must be warm in order to “learn.”) Also,allow approximately 10 miles (16 km) of stop andgo traffic for your vehicle’s engine to completely“relearn” its idle.

If you do not let the engine relearn its idle, the idlequality of your vehicle may be adversely affecteduntil the idle is relearned. Your vehicle willeventually relearn its idle while you drive it, but ittakes much longer than if you use the previousprocedure.

Wiper BladesCheck the windshield wiper blades at least twice ayear. Also check them whenever they seem lesseffective than usual. Substances such as tree sapand some hot wax treatments used by commercialcar washes reduce the effectiveness of wiper blades.

If the blades do not wipe properly, clean both thewindshield and the wiper blades. Use undilutedwindshield washer solution or a mild detergent.

Rinse thoroughly with clear water. Do not use fuel,kerosene, paint thinner, or other solvents to cleanyour wiper blades. These will damage your blades.

To make reaching the wiper blades easy, simplyturn the ignition to the ACC position and turn yourwipers on. Wait for them to reach a verticalposition and turn the ignition to the OFF position.Do not move the wipers manually. Manuallymoving the wipers across the windshield maydamage them.

Wiper blade replacementIf the wiper blades still do not work properly afteryou clean them, you may need to replace the wiperblade assembly or the blade element. Whenreplacing the wiper blade assembly, blade refill, orwiper arm always use a Motorcraft part orequivalent. To replace the blades, follow theinstructions that come with them.


234

Tires❑ Use an accurate tire pressure gauge.

❑ Check the tire pressure when tires are cold,after the vehicle has been parked for at leastone hour or has been driven less than 3 miles(5 km).

❑ Adjust tire pressure to recommendedspecifications found on the Safety ComplianceCertification Label.

WARNING

Improperly inflated tires can affectvehicle handling and can fail suddenly,possibly resulting in loss of vehiclecontrol.

Tire RotationBecause your vehicle’s front and rear tires performdifferent jobs, they often wear differently. To makesure your tires wear evenly and last longer, rotatethem as indicated in the following diagram.

Do not include the spare tire as part of yourrotation.

For tire rotation intervals, see the MaintenanceSchedule. If you notice that the tires wearunevenly, have them checked.


235

Rotating the tires

NOTE: Use the five tire rotation only when theconventional spare wheel is the same as roadwheels. (Do not mix the steel wheel withaluminum wheels in tire rotation sequence).

WARNING

Do not use the temporary spare tire inthe tire rotation.

Replacing the TiresReplace any tires that show wear bands. When yourtire shows a wear band, it has only 1/16 inch (2mm) of tread left.

A worn-out tire


236

Because your vehicle’s tires may wear unevenly,you may need to replace them before a wear bandappears across the entire tread.

WARNING

When replacing full size tires, nevermix radial, bias-belted, or bias-typetires. Use only the tire sizes that arelisted on the tire pressure decal. Makesure that all tires are the same size,speed rating, and load-carrying capacity.Use only the tire combinationsrecommended on the decal. If you donot follow these precautions, yourvehicle may not drive properly andsafely.

Tires that are larger or smaller than your vehicle’soriginal tires may also affect the accuracy of yourspeedometer.

Information About Tire Quality GradesNew vehicles are fitted with tires that have theirTire Quality Grade (described below) molded intothe tire’s sidewall. These Tire Quality Grades aredetermined by standards that the United StatesDepartment of Transportation has set.

Tire Quality Grades apply to new pneumatic tiresfor use on passenger cars. They do not apply todeep tread, winter-type snow tires, space-saver ortemporary use spare tires, tires with nominal rimdiameters of 10 to 12 inches or limited productiontires as defined in Title 49 Code of FederalRegulations Part 575.104(c)(2).

U.S. Department of Transportation — Tirequality grades: The U.S. Department ofTransportation requires Ford to give you thefollowing information about tire grades exactly asthe government has written it.


237

TreadwearThe treadwear grade is a comparative rating basedon the wear rate of the tire when tested undercontrolled conditions on a specified government testcourse. For example, a tire graded 150 would wearone and one-half (1 1/2) times as well on thegovernment course as a tire graded 100. Therelative performance of tires depends upon theactual conditions of their use, however, and maydepart significantly from the norm due to variationsin driving habits, service practices and differences inroad characteristics and climate.

Traction A B CThe traction grades, from highest to lowest, are A,B, and C, and they represent the tire’s ability tostop on wet pavement as measured under controlledconditions on specified government test surfaces ofasphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may havepoor traction performance.

WARNING

The traction grade assigned to this tireis based on brakinig (straightahead)traction tests and does not includecornering (turning) traction.

Temperature A B CThe temperature grades are A (the highest), B, andC, representing the tire’s resistance to thegeneration of heat and its ability to dissipate heatwhen tested under controlled conditions on aspecified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustainedhigh temperature can cause the material of the tireto degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessivetemperature can lead to sudden tire failure. Thegrade C corresponds to a level of performancewhich all passenger car tires must meet under theFederal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109.Grades B and A represent higher levels ofperformance on the laboratory test wheel than theminimum required by law.


238

WARNING

The temperature grade for this tire isestablished for a tire that is properlyinflated and not overloaded. Excessivespeed, underinflation, or excessiveloading, either separately or incombination, can cause heat buildupand possible tire failure.

WARNING

Driving too fast for conditions createsthe possibility of loss of vehicle control.Driving at very high speeds forextended periods of time may result indamage to vehicle components.

Snow tires and chainsThe tires on your vehicle have all-weather treadsthat provide traction in rain or snow. However,during the winter months in some climates, you

may need to use snow tires and occasionally chainsfor your tires.

Do not use chains when using a temporary spare.For full size tires, use chains on the tires only in anemergency or if the law requires them where youlive. When you use the tire chains:

❑ Make sure the chains are the right size for yourtires. Use only SAE Class “S” chains. Othertypes may damage your vehicle.

❑ Put the chains on tightly with the ends helddown securely. Verify that no chain touches anywiring, brake lines, or fuel lines. Follow thechain manufacturer’s instructions.

❑ Drive slowly. If you can hear the chains rub orbang against your vehicle, stop the vehicle andtighten the chains. If you continue to hear thechains rub or bang against your vehicle, removethe chains to prevent damage to your vehicle.


239

The tires on your vehicle have all-weather treadsthat provide traction in rain or snow. However,during the winter months in some climates, youmay need to use snow tires.

WARNING

Snow tires must be the same size andgrade as the tires you currently have onyour vehicle.

Filling the Fuel TankYour vehicle is equipped with a locking fuel door.You can open the door by pressing the buttonlocated on the lower door trim panel.

The fuel filler door is outside the vehicle on thedriver’s side near the back. To fill the fuel tank:

The remote fuel door button

If the remote release is inoperative, open the trunkdecklid and pull the remote fuel filler door overridehandle located inside the trunk (left side) to openthe fuel filler door.


240

The remote fuel filler door override handle

1. After opening the fuel filler door, remove thecap carefully and slowly by turning itcounterclockwise 1/2 to 3/4 turn. If a hissingsound is heard, wait until it stops, thencontinue turning until the cap is free.

WARNING

The fuel system may be under pressure.If the fuel cap is venting vapor or ifyou hear a hissing sound, wait until itstops before completely removing thecap.

2. Make sure that you pump unleaded fuel andput the nozzle all the way inside the fuel fillerpipe.

NOTE: If you spill any fuel on the body of yourvehicle, clean it off immediately. The fuel may dullor soften the paint if you do not wash it off.


241

3. Replace the fuel cap completely when you arefinished. Turn it clockwise 1/4 turn until it istight. It will click when it is fully tightened.

4. Push the fuel door closed.

WARNING

If you do not use the proper fuel cap,the pressure in the fuel tank candamage the fuel system or cause it towork improperly in a collision.

NOTE: If you replace your fuel cap with anaftermarket fuel filler cap, the customer warrantymay be void for any damage to the fuel tankand/or fuel system.

Choosing the Right FuelUse only UNLEADED FUEL. The use of leaded fuelis prohibited by law and could damage your vehicle.The damage may not be covered by your warranty.

Your vehicle was not designed to use fuelcontaining manganese-based additives such as MMT.Additionally, vehicles certified to California emissionstandards (indicated on the underhood VehicleEmissions Control Information label) are designed tooperate on California reformulated gasolines. IfCalifornia reformulated gasoline is not availablewhen you refuel, your vehicle can be operated onnon-California fuels. However, even though yourengine will perform adequately on other gasolines,the performance of the emission control devices andsystems may be adversely affected. Repair of damagecaused by using a fuel that your vehicle was notdesigned for may not be covered by your warranty.

Octane recommendationYour vehicle is designed to use regular gasolinewith an (R+M)/2 octane rating of 87. We do notrecommend gasolines labeled as “regular” in highaltitude areas that are sold with octane ratings of86 or even less.


242

Typical octane rating label

Do not be concerned if your vehicle sometimesknocks lightly. However, if it knocks heavily undermost driving conditions on the recommendedoctane fuel, see your dealer or a qualified servicetechnician to prevent any engine damage.

Fuel qualityIf you are experiencing starting, rough idle orhesitation problems try a different brand of fuel. Ifthe condition persists, see your dealer or a qualifiedservice technician.

The American Automobile ManufacturersAssociation (AAMA) issued a gasoline specificationto provide information on high quality fuels thatoptimize the performance of your vehicle. Werecommend the use of gasolines that meet theAAMA specification if they are available.

It should not be necessary to add any aftermarketproducts to your fuel tank if you continue to use ahigh-quality fuel.

Cleaner AirFord approves the use of gasolines to improve airquality, including reformulated gasolines that containoxygenates such as a maximum of 10% ethanol or15% MTBE. There should be no more than 5%methanol with cosolvents and additives to protectthe fuel system.


243

Safety Information Relating toAutomotive Fuels

WARNING

Automotive fuels can cause seriousinjury or death if misused ormishandled.

❑ Turn vehicle off when refueling.

❑ Do not smoke when refueling. Fuels areextremely flammable.

❑ Do not siphon any fuel by mouth.

WARNING

Gasoline or gasoline blended withmethanol can cause blindness andpossible death when swallowed. If anyfuel is swallowed, call a physician orpoison control center immediately.

❑ Avoid breathing vapors while refueling.

❑ If fuel is splashed on the skin, wash with soapand water.

❑ If fuel is splashed in the eyes, remove contactlenses (if worn), flush with water for 15minutes, and seek medical attention.

Gasoline and gasoline blends may contain smallamounts of carcinogens, such as benzene. Long-termexposure to unleaded gasoline vapors has causedcancer in laboratory animals.

If you are taking the medication “Antabuse” orother forms of disulfiram for the treatment ofalcoholism, vapor or skin contact with agasoline-methanol blend, may cause the same kindof adverse reaction as drinking an alcoholicbeverage. In sensitive individuals, serious personalinjury or sickness could result. Consult a physicianpromptly if you experience an adverse reaction.


244

Running Out of FuelNOTE: Avoid running out of fuel because thissituation may have an adverse effect on modernpowertrain components.

You may need to crank the engine several timesbefore the fuel system starts to pump fuel from thetank to the engine.

If the engine does not start, check the fuel pumpshut-off switch and reset as required. See Fuelpump shut-off switch in the Index.

WARNING

Never pour fuel in the throttle body orattempt to start the engine with the aircleaner removed. Doing so could resultin fire and personal injury.

Fuel EconomyFuel economy is an estimate of the efficiency ofyour vehicle and can be calculated as Miles PerGallon (MPG) or Liters Per 100 Kilometers(L/100K).

Do not calculate fuel economy during your vehicle’sbreak-in period. This would not be an accurateestimate of how much fuel your vehicle willnormally use.

To calculate fuel economy:

1. Fill the tank completely and record the initialodometer reading.

2. Every time you buy fuel record the amount (ingallons or liters) purchased.

3. After at least three to five tankfuls, fill the fueltank and record the final odometer reading.

4. Use these equations to calculate your fueleconomy.


245

❑ English: MPG = (total miles)/(gallons used).

❑ Metric: L/100K = (liters used) x 100/(totalkilometers)

Comparisons With EnvironmentalProtection Agency (EPA) and TransportCanada (TC) Fuel Economy EstimatesEPA fuel economy figures are obtained fromlaboratory tests under simulated road conditions andmay not reflect the actual conditions you experienceor your style of driving. The EPA fuel economyestimate is not a guarantee that you will achievethe fuel economy shown.

The following decrease fuel economy:

❑ Lack of regular, scheduled maintenance

❑ Rapid acceleration and excessive speed

❑ Driving with your foot on the brake

❑ Sudden stops

❑ Extended engine idling

❑ Using speed control in hilly terrain

❑ Extended use of the A/C, defroster, rearwindow defroster and other accessories

❑ Underinflated tires

❑ Heavy loads

❑ Aftermarket add-ons such as bike, ski or luggageracks, bug deflectors, etc.

Self-Service PointersIf you choose to do your own fueling, you shouldalso perform a few simple maintenance routines.This extra effort will save you additional money andcontribute to the driving efficiency of your vehicle.

The following procedures require only a tire gauge,a rag, an oil can spout and windshield washer fluid.

❑ Check the engine oil at every refueling stop

❑ Clean the windshield, outside mirrors andheadlights


246

❑ Check windshield washer fluid

❑ Check tires for excessive wear or worn edges

❑ Check the tire pressure at least monthly

Emission Control SystemYour vehicle is equipped with a catalytic converterwhich enables your vehicle to comply withapplicable exhaust emission requirements.

WARNING

Exhaust leaks may result in the entry ofharmful and potentially lethal fumesinto the passenger compartment. Underextreme conditions excessive exhausttemperatures could damage the fuelsystem, the interior floor covering, orother vehicle components, possiblycausing a fire.

To make sure that the catalytic converter and theother emission control parts continue to workproperly:

❑ Use only unleaded fuel.

❑ Avoid running out of fuel.

❑ Do not push start your vehicle.

❑ Have the services listed in the MaintenanceSchedule booklet performed according to thespecified schedule. The scheduled maintenanceservices are required because they areconsidered essential to the life and performanceof your vehicle and to its emissions system.

In general, maintenance, replacement, or service ofthe emissions control devices or systems in yournew Ford Motor Company vehicle or engine maybe performed at your expense by any automotiverepair establishment or individual using automotiveparts equivalent to those which your vehicle orengine was originally equipped.


247

Ford strongly recommends the use of genuine Fordreplacement parts. If other than Ford or Motorcraftparts or Ford authorized remanufactured parts areused for maintenance replacements or for theservice of components affecting emission control,such non-Ford parts should be equivalent to genuineFord Motor Company parts in performance anddurability. It is the owner’s responsibility todetermine the equivalency of such parts. Pleaseconsult your warranty booklet for completewarranty information.

WARNING

Do not park, idle, or drive your vehiclein dry grass or other dry ground cover.The emission system heats up theengine compartment and exhaustsystem, which can start a fire.

Watch for fluid leaks, strange odors, smoke, loss ofoil pressure, the charge warning light, the checkengine light, or the temperature warning light.

These sometimes indicate that the emission systemis not working properly.

Do not make any unauthorized changes to yourvehicle or engine. Changes that cause moreunburned fuel to reach the exhaust system canincrease the temperature of the engine or exhaustsystem.

By law, anyone who manufactures, repairs, services,sells, leases, trades vehicles, or supervises a fleet ofvehicles is not permitted to intentionally remove anemission control device or prevent it from working.In some of the United States and in Canada,vehicle owners may be liable if their emissioncontrol device is removed or is prevented fromworking.

Do not drive your vehicle if it does not operateproperly. See your dealer if the engine runs on formore than five seconds after you shut it off or if itmisfires, surges, stalls, or backfires.


248

Information about your vehicle’s emission controlsystem is on the Vehicle Emission ControlInformation decal located on or near the engine.This decal identifies engine displacement and givessome tune-up specifications.

How to Prepare Your Vehicle forInspection/Maintenance (I/M) TestingIn some localities it may become a legalrequirement to pass an Inspection/Maintenance(I/M) test of the On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) IIsystem. If the vehicle’s powertrain system or itsbattery has just been serviced, the OBD II system isreset to a not ready for I/M testing condition. Toprepare for I/M testing, the law specifies thatadditional city and highway driving is necessary tocomplete the check of the OBD II system.

The driving modes required to reach the readycondition consist of a minimum of 30 minutes ofcity and highway driving as described below:

❑ At least twenty minutes driving in stop and go,city type traffic with at least four idle periods.

❑ At least ten minutes of driving on anexpressway or highway.

Before completing the above driving modes, theengine must be warmed up and at operatingtemperature. Once started, the vehicle must not beturned off during these driving modes.

Lights and Bulb ReplacementIt is a good idea to check the operation of thefollowing lights frequently:

❑ headlamps

❑ high-mount brakelamp

❑ tail lamps

❑ brakelamps

❑ hazard flasher


249

❑ turn signals

❑ side markers

❑ license plate lamps

The alignment of your headlamps should bechecked if:

❑ oncoming motorists frequently signal you to turnoff your vehicle’s high beams when you do nothave the high beams on

❑ the headlamps do not seem to give you enoughlight to see clearly at night

❑ the headlamp beams are pointed substantiallyaway from a position slightly down and to theright

Headlamp BulbThe headlamps on your vehicle use replaceablebulbs. When the lamp burns out, simply replace thebulb, rather than the whole lamp.

WARNING

Handle a halogen headlamp bulbcarefully and keep out of children’sreach. Grasp the bulb only by its plasticbase and do not touch the glass. The oilfrom your hand could cause the bulb tobreak the next time the headlamps areoperated.

Do not remove the burned-out bulb unless you canimmediately replace it with a new one. If a bulb isremoved for an extended period of time,contaminants may enter the headlamp housing andaffect its performance.


250

Parts of a headlamp

Removing the headlamp bulb

1. Make sure that the headlamp switch is in theOFF position.

2. Lift the hood, open access panel aboveheadlamp and find the bulb in the headlampsocket.

3. Remove the electrical connector from the bulbby grasping the wire with a quick pullrearward.

4. Remove the retaining ring by turning it 1/8 ofa turn to free it from the socket. Then slide thering off the plastic base. Keep the ring. Youmust use it again to hold the new bulb inplace.


251

Installing the headlamp bulb

1. With the flat side of the bulb’s plastic basefacing upward, insert the glass end of the bulbinto the socket. You may need to turn the bulbleft or right to line up the grooves in the plasticbase with the tabs in the socket. When thegrooves are aligned, push the bulb into thesocket until the plastic base contacts the rear ofthe socket.

2. Slip the bulb retaining ring over the plastic baseuntil it contacts the rear of the socket. Lockthe ring into the socket by rotating it clockwiseuntil you feel a “stop.”

3. Push the electrical connector into the rear ofthe plastic base until it snaps, locking it intoposition.

4. Turn the headlamps on and make sure thatthey work properly. If the headlamp wascorrectly aligned before you changed the bulb,you should not need to align it again.


252


253

Cleaning Your VehicleWashing and Polishing Your VehicleWash the outside of your vehicle, including theunderside, with a mild detergent.

DO NOT:

❑ Wash your vehicle with hot water

❑ Wash your vehicle while it sits in directsunlight

❑ Wash your vehicle while the body is hot

Pollen, bird droppings and tree sap can damage thepaint, especially in hot weather. Wash your vehicleas often as necessary to keep it clean.

Take similar precautions if your vehicle is exposedto chemical industrial fallout.

Paint damage resulting from fallout is not related toa defect inpaint materials or workmanship andtherefore is not covered by warranty. Ford,however, believes that continual improvement incustomer satisfaction is a high priority. For thisreason, Ford has authorized its dealers to repair, atno charge to the owner, the surfaces of newvehicles damaged by envireonmental fallout within12 months or 12,000 miles (20,000 km) ofpurchase, whichever comes first. Customers may berequired to bring their vehicle in for inspection by aFord representative.

Polish your vehicle to remove harmful deposits andprotect the finish.

Cleaning Chrome and Aluminum PartsWash chrome and aluminum parts with a milddetergent. Do not use steel wool, abrasive cleaners,fuel, or strong detergents.


254

Cleaning Plastic PartsSome of your vehicle’s exterior trim parts areplastic. Clean with a tar and road oil remover ifnecessary. Use a vinyl cleaner for routine cleaning.

Do not clean plastic parts with thinners, solvents orpetroleum-based cleaners.

If you have your vehicle rustproofed, removeoversprayed rustproofing with a tar and road oilremover. If rustproofing is not removed from plasticand rubber parts, it can cause deterioration.

Cleaning the Safety BeltsClean the safety belts with any mild soap solutionthat is recommended for cleaning upholstery orcarpets. Do not bleach or dye the belt webbingbecause this may weaken it.

Cleaning the Instrument Panel LensClean the instrument panel lens and woodtone trimwith a soft cloth and a glass cleaner. Do not usepaper towel or any abrasive cleaner to clean eitherthe lens or the woodtone trim as these may causescratches.

Cleaning the Exterior LampsDo not use dry paper towel, chemical solvents orabrasive cleaners to clean the lamps, as these maycause scratches or crack the lamps.

Cleaning the Interior LampsYour interior dome lamps and map lamps are plasticand should be cleaned with a mild detergentdiluted in water. Rinse them with clear water.


255

Cleaning the Seats

LeatherFor routine cleaning, wipe the surface with a soft,damp cloth. For more thorough cleaning, wipe thesurface with a leather and vinyl cleaner or a mildsoap.

Wipe the surface with a damp, soft cloth, then dryand buff with a dry, soft cloth.

FabricRemove dust and loose dirt with a whisk broom ora vacuum cleaner. Remove fresh spots immediately.Follow the directions that come with the cleaner.

NOTE: Before using any cleaner, test it on a small,hidden area of fabric. If the fabric’s color or textureis adversely affected by a particular cleaner, do notuse it.

Cleaning the WheelsWash the wheels with the same detergent you useto wash your vehicle’s body. Do not use acid-basedwheel cleaners, steel wool, abrasives, fuel, or strongdetergents. These substances will damage protectivecoatings. Use tar and road oil remover to removegrease and tar.

NOTE: Before going to a car wash, find out if thebrushes are abrasive.

If you have whitewall tires that are difficult to cleanwith regular detergent, use whitewall tire cleaner.Follow the directions on the container and rinse thetires with plenty of clean water.


257

Capacities and Specifications

Refill Capacities, Motorcraft Parts,and Lubricant SpecificationsMotorcraft Parts

File:12fncst.exUpdate:Thu Jun 20 15:16:56 1996

258

Fluid Specifications and Capacities NOTE: Rear axle lube quantities must be replacedevery 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or if the axlehas been submerged in water. Otherwise, the lubeshould not be checked or changed unless a leak issuspected or repair required.


259

Lubricant Specifications


260

NOTE: Rear axle lube quantities must be replacedevery 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or if the axlehas been submerged in water. Otherwise, the lubeshould not be checked or changed unless a leak issuspected or repair required.

Vehicle StorageMaintenance TipsIf you plan on storing your vehicle for an extendedperiod of time (60 days or more), refer to thefollowing maintenance recommendations to ensureyour vehicle stays in good operating condition.

General

❑ Store all vehicles in a dry, ventilated place.

❑ Protect from sunlight, if possible.

❑ If vehicles are stored outside, they requireregular maintenance to protect against rust anddamage.

Body

❑ Wash vehicle thoroughly to remove dirt, grease,oil, tar or mud from exterior surfaces, rearwheel housing and underside of front fenders.

❑ Periodically wash vehicles stored in exposedlocations.

❑ Touch-up raw or primed metal to prevent rust.

❑ Cover chrome and stainless steel parts with athick coat of auto wax to prevent discoloration.Re-wax as necessary when the vehicle iswashed.

❑ Lubricate all hood, door and trunk lid hingesand latches with a light grade oil.

❑ Cover interior soft trim to prevent fading.

❑ Keep all rubber parts free from oil and solvents.


261

Engine

❑ Start engine every 15 days. Run at fast idleuntil it reaches normal operating temperature.

❑ With your foot on the brake, shift through allthe gears while the engine is running.

Fuel system

❑ Fill fuel tank with high-quality, premiumunleaded fuel until the first automatic shutoff ofthe fuel pump nozzle.

NOTE: During extended periods of vehicle storage(60 days or more), fuel may deteriorate due tooxidation. This can damage rubber and otherpolymers in the fuel system and may also clog smallorifices.

Ford Gas Stabilizer should be added wheneveractual or expected storage periods exceed 60 days.Follow the instructions on the label. The vehicleshould then be operated at idle speed to circulatethe additive throughout the fuel system.

A volatile corrosion inhibitor added to the fuelsystem will protect the fuel system’s inner surfacesfrom corrosion. Follow the instructions packagedwith the product.

Cooling system

❑ Protect against freezing temperatures.

Battery

❑ Check and recharge as necessary.

❑ Keep connections clean and covered with alight coat of grease.

❑ If storing your vehicle for more than 30 dayswithout recharging the battery, disconnect thebattery cables to ensure battery charge ismaintained for quick starting. NOTE: If batterycables are disconnected, it will be necessary toreset any memory features (eg. radio presets).


262

Brakes

❑ Make sure brakes and parking brake are fullyreleased.

Tires

❑ Maintain recommended air pressures.

Miscellaneous

❑ Make sure all linkages, cables, levers and clevispins under vehicle are covered with grease toprevent rust.

❑ Move vehicles at least 25 feet (8 m) every 15days to lubricate working parts and preventcorrosion.


263

Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only)

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

If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may openan investigation, and if it finds that a safety defectexists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recalland remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannotbecome involved in individual problems betweenyou, your dealer, or Ford Motor Company.

To contact NHTSA, you may either call the AutoSafety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or366-0123 in the Washington, D.C. area) or writeto: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400Seventh Street, Washington D.C. 20590. You canalso obtain other information about motor vehiclesafety from the Hotline.

File:13fnrdt.exUpdate:Mon Jun 17 13:55:17 1996

265

Customer Assistance

If You Have a Service ProblemFord Motor Company has authorized Ford andLincoln-Mercury dealerships that can service yourvehicle for you. This chapter tells you how to getservice or maintenance for your vehicle.

Service/Maintenance Concerns(U.S. or Canada)Ford recommends taking your vehicle to yourselling dealer who wants to ensure your continuedsatisfaction. You may, however, take your vehicle toany authorized Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. Inmost cases, your dealer will be able to resolve yourconcern.

If you are not satisfied with the service youreceived from your dealership’s service department,talk to the service manager at the dealership, or if

you still are not satisfied, talk to the owner orgeneral manager of the dealership. In most cases,you will have your concern resolved at this level.

If you are away from home when your vehicleneeds to be serviced, or if you need more help thanthe dealer gave you, contact the Ford CustomerAssistance Center to find an authorized dealershipthat may be able to help you.

File:14fnhst.exUpdate:Mon Jun 17 13:55:31 1996

266

If you have any questions or concerns that thedealership cannot answer, contact the CustomerAssistance Center.

If you still have a complaint involving a warrantydispute, you may wish to contact the DisputeSettlement Board (U.S. only) or the Canadian MotorVehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP) in Canada.

A warranty dispute must be submitted to theDispute Settlement Board before taking action underthe Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, or to the extentallowed by state law, before pursuing replacementor repurchase remedies provided by certain statelaws. This dispute handling procedure is notrequired prior to enforcing state created rights orother rights which are independent of theMagnuson-Moss Warranty Act or state replacementor repurchase laws.

The Dispute Settlement Board(U.S. Only)The Dispute Settlement Board is:

❑ an independent, third-party arbitration programfor warranty disputes

❑ available free to owners and lessees of qualifyingFord Motor Company vehicles

The Dispute Settlement Board may not be availablein all states. Ford Motor Company reserves the rightto change eligibility limitations, modify proceduresand/or to discontinue this service without noticeand without incurring obligations.


267

What Kind of Cases Does the BoardReview?The Board reviews all warranty performancecomplaints on Ford, Mercury and Lincoln cars andFord and Mercury light trucks under the newvehicle limited warranty that have not beenresolved by either a dealer or Ford Motor Company,except those involving:

❑ a non-Ford product

❑ a non-Ford dealership

❑ a vehicle sales transaction

❑ request for reimbursement of consequentialexpenses. Expenses incidental to the warrantycomplaint being reviewed are eligible forconsideration.

❑ items not covered by the new vehicle limitedwarranty

❑ items covered by a service contract

❑ alleged liability claims

❑ property damage where the damage issignificant when compared to the economic lossalleged under the warranty dispute

❑ cases currently in litigation

❑ vehicles not used primarily for family, personal,or household purposes (except in states wherethe Dispute Settlement Board is required toreview commercial vehicles)

Complaints involving vehicles in which applicablenew vehicle limited warranties have expired atreceipt of your application are not eligible. Eligibilitymay differ according to state law. For example, seethe unique brochures for California and Wisconsinpurchasers/lessees.


268

How does the Board Work?The Board consists of:

❑ three consumer representatives

❑ a Ford or Lincoln/Mercury dealer

Consumer candidates for Board membership arerecruited and trained by an independent consultingfirm. Dealers are chosen because of their businessleadership qualities.

What the Board needsTo have your case reviewed you must complete theapplication in the DSB brochure and mail it to theaddress provided on the application form.

Your application is reviewed and, if it is determinedto be eligible, you will receive an acknowledgmentindicating:

❑ the file number assigned to your application

❑ the toll-free phone number of the DSB’sindependent administrator

Your dealership and a Ford Motor Companyrepresentative are asked to submit statements at thistime.

To review your case properly, the Board needs thefollowing information:

❑ legible copies of all documents and maintenanceor repair orders relevant to the case

❑ the year, make, model, and VehicleIdentification Number (VIN) listed on yourvehicle ownership license

❑ the date of repair(s) and mileage at the time ofoccurrence(s)

❑ the current mileage

❑ the name of the dealer who sold or serviced thevehicle


269

❑ a brief description of your unresolved concern

❑ a brief summary of the action taken with thedealer and Ford Motor Company

❑ the names (if known) of all the people youcontacted at the dealership

❑ a description of the action you expect to resolveyour concern

Should your case NOT qualify for review, a letter ofexplanation will be mailed to you.

Oral presentationsIf the involved vehicle is within 36 months and36,000 miles of the warranty start date, you havethe right to make an oral presentation before theBoard. Indicate your choice to do so on theapplication. Oral presentations may also berequested by the Board.

Making a decisionBoard members will review all available informationrelated to the complaint, including oralpresentations, if necessary. They then arrive at a fairand impartial decision, decided by a simple majorityvote.

Because the Board usually meets only once amonth, some cases may take longer than 30 days tobe reviewed. The Board makes every effort toresolve each case within 40 days of receiving theconsumer application form.

After your case is reviewed, the Board mails you adecision letter. The Board also provides a form onwhich to accept or reject the Board’s decision. Thedecisions of the Board are binding on the dealerand Ford, but not on consumers who may elect topursue other remedies available to them under stateor federal law. Decisions of the Board may bepresented as evidence by any party in subsequentlegal proceedings that may be initiated, whereallowed by law.


270

To Request a DSBBrochure/ApplicationFor a brochure/application, speak to your dealer orwrite to the Board at the following address:

Ford of Canada CustomerAssistanceIf you live in Canada and have any questions orconcerns that the dealership cannot answer, contactthe Lincoln Centre.

Please have the following information availablewhen contacting the Lincoln Centre:

❑ your telephone number (both business andhome)

❑ the name of the dealer and the city where thedealership is located

❑ the year and make of your vehicle

❑ the date purchased

❑ the current mileage on your vehicle

❑ your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) listedon your vehicle ownership license


271

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN/SerialNumber)

Mediation/Arbitration Program(Canada Only)In those cases where you continue to feel that theefforts by Ford and the dealer to resolve afactory-related vehicle service concern have beenunsatisfactory, Ford of Canada participates in animpartial third party mediation/arbitration programadministered by the Canadian Motor VehicleArbitration Plan (CAMVAP).

The CAMVAP program is a straight-forward andrelatively speedy alternative to resolve adisagreement when all other efforts to produce asettlement have failed. This procedure is withoutcost to you and is designed to eliminate the needfor lengthy and expensive legal proceedings.

In the CAMVAP program, impartial third-partyArbitrators conduct hearings at mutually convenienttimes and places in an informal environment. Theseimpartial Arbitrators review the positions of theparties, make decisions and, where appropriate,render awards to resolve disputes. CAMVAPdecisions are fast, fair and final as the arbitrator’saward is binding on both you and Ford of Canada.

CAMVAP services are available in all territories andprovinces, except Quebec. For more information,without charge or obligation, call your CAMVAPProvincial Administrator directly at 1-800-207-0685.


272

Getting Help Outside the U.S.and CanadaBefore you export your vehicle to a foreign country,contact the appropriate foreign embassy or consulateto make sure local regulations do not prevent youfrom registering your vehicle. Officials at theembassy can also help you decide whether youshould import your vehicle to that country.

Officials at the embassy or consulate can tell youwhere to get unleaded fuel. If you cannot getunleaded fuel or can get only fuel with ananti-knock index that is lower than your vehicleneeds, contact a district or owner relations officebefore you leave the U.S. or Canada.

Use of leaded fuel in your vehicle without a properconversion may damage the effectiveness of youremissions control system and may cause engineknocking or serious engine damage. Ford MotorCompany is not responsible for any damage that iscaused by use of improper fuel.

You may also have difficulty importing your vehicleback into the U.S. if you use leaded fuel.


273

If your vehicle must be serviced while you aretraveling or living in Central or South America, theCaribbean, or the Middle East, contact the nearestFord dealership. If the dealership cannot help you,write to:

If you are in other foreign countries, contact thenearest Ford dealership. If the dealership cannothelp you, they can direct you to the appropriateFord affiliate office.

If you buy your vehicle in North America and thenrelocate outside of the U.S. or Canada, register yourVehicle Identification Number and new addresswith Ford Motor Company Export Operations.


275

Accessories

Ford Accessories for Your VehicleA wide selection of accessories is available throughyour local authorized dealer. These fine accessorieshave been engineered specifically to fulfill yourautomotive needs. They are custom designed tocomplement the style and aerodynamic appearanceof your Ford-built vehicle. In addition, eachaccessory is made from high quality materials andmeets or exceeds Ford’s rigid engineering and safetyspecifications. That is why Ford brand accessoriesare warranted for up to 12 months or 12,000 miles(20,000 km), whichever comes first. See yourdealer for complete warranty information andaccessory availability.

Ford has many fine products available from yourdealer to clean your vehicle and protect its finishes.For best results, use the following, or products ofequivalent quality:

File:15fnact.exUpdate:Mon Jun 17 13:55:48 1996

276

NOTE: When adding accessories, equipment,passengers, and luggage to your vehicle, do notexceed the total weight capacity of the vehicle or ofthe front or rear axle (GVWR, GAWR as shown onthe Safety Compliance Certification Label). Consultyour dealer for specific weight information.

NOTE: The Federal Communications Commission(FCC) or the Canadian Radio TelecommunicationsCommission (CRTC) regulates the use of mobilecommunications systems — such as two-way radios,telephones, and theft alarms — that are equippedwith radio transmitters. Any such equipmentinstalled in your vehicle should comply with FCCor CRTC regulations and should be installed only bya qualified technician.


277

NOTE: Mobile communications systems may harmthe operation of your vehicle, particularly if they arenot properly designed for automotive use or are notproperly installed. For example, when operated,such systems may cause the engine to stumble orstall. In addition, such systems may themselves bedamaged or their operation affected by operatingyour vehicle. (Citizens band [CB] transceivers,garage door openers, and other transmitters whosepower output is 5 watts or less will not ordinarilyaffect your vehicle’s operation.)

NOTE: Because we have no control over theinstallation, design, or manufacture of such systems,Ford cannot assume responsibility for any adverseeffects or damage that may result if you use thisequipment.


278


287

File:16fnqit.exUpdate:Thu Jun 20 15:17:39 1996

288


289


290


291


292


293


294


295

Index

AABS warning light (see Anti-lock

brake system) . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Accessory position on the ignition . . . . 73Accessory power source, power

point outlet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73Accident damage . . . . . . . . . . . . 212Air bag supplemental

restraint system . . . . . . . . . . . 135and child safety seats . . . . . . 137, 141description . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135driver air bag . . . . . . . . . . . . 135indicator light . . . . . . . . . . . . 14operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137passenger air bag. . . . . . . . . . . 135service and information labels . . . . . 139tone generator . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

Air cleaner filterlocation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . 257

Air conditioning, electronic automatictemperature control system. . . . . . . 55

Air suspension, description. . . . . . . . 170Alarm, activating remote personal . . . . . 112Aluminum wheels . . . . . . . . . . . 200Antenna, radio (see Electronic

sound system) . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Antifreeze (see Engine coolant) . . . . . . 224Anti-lock brake system (ABS)

description . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167see also Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . 167warning light . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Anti-theft lug nuts and key. . . . . . . . 203

File:fnixt.exUpdate:Mon Jun 17 13:58:01 1996

296

Anti-theft systemarming the system . . . . . . . . . . 116description . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116disarming an untriggered system . . . . 118disarming a triggered system. . . . . . 118triggering . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

Appeals (see Dispute settlement board) . . 266Ashtray(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73Assistance (see Customer assistance) . . . 265Audio system (see Electronic

sound system) . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Autolamp system (see Headlamps) . . . . 70Automatic transmission

driving an automatic overdrive . . . . . 173fluid, adding. . . . . . . . . . . . . 231fluid, checking . . . . . . . . . . . . 230fluid, refill capacities . . . . . . . . . 258fluid, specification . . . . . . . . . . 259

Axlelubricant specifications . . . . . . . . 259refill capacities . . . . . . . . . . . . 258

BBasic vehicle warranty. . . . . . . . . . . 3Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232

battery saver. . . . . . . . . . . . . 115charging system warning light . . . . . 15disconnecting . . . . . . . . . . . . 232how to service . . . . . . . . . . . . 232jumping a disabled battery . . . . . . . 204maintenance-free . . . . . . . . . . . 232proper disposal, recycling . . . . . . . 232replacement, specifications. . . . . . . 257servicing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232when storing your vehicle . . . . . . . 261


297

Brake fluidbrake warning light. . . . . . . . . . 12checking and adding . . . . . . . . . 221description . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . 259

Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167anti-lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167applying the brakes. . . . . . . . . . 167brake warning light. . . . . . . . . . 11fluid, checking and adding. . . . . . . 221fluid, refill capacities . . . . . . 221, 258fluid, specifications . . . . . . . . . . 259master cylinder . . . . . . . . . . . 221new brake linings . . . . . . . . . . . 5noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168servicing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167when storing your vehicle . . . . . . . 262

Break-in period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5Brights (high beams) . . . . . . . . . . 13Bulbs, replacing . . . . . . . . . . . . 248

halogen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 249headlamps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 249

CCanada, customer assistance . . . . . . . 270Canada, warranty information . . . . . . . 3Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan

(CAMVAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 271Capacities for refilling fluids . . . . . . . 258Carbon monoxide in exhaust . . . . . . . 165Car seats for children

(see Child safety seats) . . . . . . . . 141Cassette tape player (see Electronic sound

system) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Catalytic converter . . . . . . . . . . . 246Changing a tire. . . . . . . . . . . . . 192


298

Charging system warning light . . . . . . 15Childproof locks . . . . . . . . . . . . 96Child safety restraints . . . . . . . . . . 140

child safety belts . . . . . . . . . . . 158child safety seats . . . . . . . . . . . 141

Child safety seatsand air bags . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141attaching with tether straps . . . . . . 158automatic locking mode

(retractor) . . . . . . . . 130, 141, 143in front seat . . . . . . . . . . 141, 143in rear outboard seat . . . . . . 141, 151in rear seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141tether anchorage hardware . . . . . . 158

Chimeheadlamps on . . . . . . . . . . . . 32key in ignition . . . . . . . . . . . . 75safety belt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Circuit breakers, checking and replacing . . 191

Cleaning your vehiclechrome and aluminum parts . . . . . . 253exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253exterior lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . 254fabric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 255headlamps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 254instrument panel . . . . . . . . . . . 254interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 255interior lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . 254mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90plastic parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . 254polishing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253rustproofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . 254safety belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . 254tail lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 254upholstery and interior trim . . . . . . 255washing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253waxing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 255


299

Climate control systemair conditioning . . . . . . . . . . . 55electronic automatic temperature

control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72Cold engine starting . . . . . . . . . . 162Combination lap and shoulder belts . . . . 126Compact disc radio (see Electronic

sound system) . . . . . . . . . . . . 35Controls, mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . 89Coolant (see Engine coolant)

checking and adding . . . . . . . . . 224preparing for storage . . . . . . . . . 261refill capacities. . . . . . . . . . . . 258specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . 259temperature gauge . . . . . . . . . . 10

Cooling fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214Cupholder(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73Customer Assistance Centre,

Ford of Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . 270

DDaytime running light system . . . . . . 68Defects, reporting. . . . . . . . . . . . 263Defrost, windshield . . . . . . . . . . . 63Dipstick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219

automatic transmission fluid . . . . . . 230engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219power steering fluid . . . . . . . . . 229

Disabled vehicle (see Towing) . . . . . . 209Dispute Settlement Board . . . . . . . . 266Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

door ajar warning message. . . . . . . 31lubricant specifications . . . . . . . . 259


300

Driving under special conditionsheavy load . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177towing a trailer . . . . . . . . . . . 179

EElectrical system

circuit breakers . . . . . . . . . . . 191fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190power point outlet . . . . . . . . . . 73

Electronic sound systemantenna. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40tuning the radio . . . . . . . . . . . 36warranty and service information . . . . 53

Electronic stereo cassette radio(see Electronic sound system) . . . . . 35

Electronic stereo radio (see Electronicsound system) . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Emergencies, roadsidefuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 243jump-starting . . . . . . . . . . . . 204towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209

Emergency brake (parking brake) . . . . . 168Emission control system . . . . . . . . . 246

catalytic converter . . . . . . . . . . 246emissions warranty . . . . . . . . 3, 246

Enginecheck engine warning light . . . . . . 14does not start . . . . . . . . . 163, 181fuel injected engine, starting . . . . . . 161fuel pump shut-off switch . . . . . . . 181preparing to start. . . . . . . . . . . 161refill capacities . . . . . . . . . . . . 258service points . . . . . . . . . . . . 216starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162starting after a collision . . . . . . . . 181storing your vehicle . . . . . . . . . 260

Engine block heater . . . . . . . . . . . 164


301

Engine coolantchecking and adding . . . . . . . . . 224disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212preparing for storage . . . . . . . . . 261proper solution . . . . . . . . . . . 212recovery reservoir . . . . . . . . . . 216refill capacities. . . . . . . . . . . . 258specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . 259temperature gauge . . . . . . . . . . 10

Engine coolant temperature gaugedescription . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Engine fan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214Engine knocking . . . . . . . . . . . . 241Engine oil

“break-in” oils . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5changing oil and oil filter . . . . . . . 220checking and adding . . . . . . . . . 219dipstick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212engine oil pressure warning light . . . . 15filter, specifications . . . . . . . . . . 257refill capacities. . . . . . . . . . . . 258

specifications . . . . . . . . . 218, 259synthetic oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218viscosity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218

Exhaust fumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165

FFan

engine fan, avoiding injury . . . . . . 214Flashers, hazard . . . . . . . . . . . . 78Flashing the lights . . . . . . . . . . . 76Flat tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192Fluid refill capacities . . . . . . . . . . 258Ford Dispute Settlement Board . . . . . . 266Ford Motor Company of Canada . . . . . 270Ford of Canada Customer

Assistance Centre . . . . . . . . . . . 270Foreign registration . . . . . . . . . . . 272French owner guides, how to obtain . . . . 3


302

Fuelcalculating fuel economy . . . . . . . 244capacity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 258choosing the right fuel . . . . . . . . 240comparisons with EPA fuel

economy estimates . . . . . . . . . 244filling your vehicle with fuel . . . . . . 239filter, specifications . . . . . . . . . . 257fuel filler door release lever . . . . . . 239fuel gauge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17octane rating . . . . . . . . . . . . 241quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 241running out of fuel . . . . . . . . . . 243safety information relating to

automotive fuels . . . . . . . . . . 242storing your vehicle . . . . . . . . . 261treating emergencies . . . . . . . . . 242

Fuel capremoving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 239replacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 239

Fuel filler doorremote release . . . . . . . . . . . . 239

Fuel filter, specifications . . . . . . . . . 257Fuel gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Fuel pump shut-off switch

engine does not start . . . . . . . . . 181starting after a collision . . . . . . . . 181

Fuse panelsengine compartment . . . . . . . . . 187instrument panel . . . . . . . . . . . 190

Fusescharts . . . . . . . . . . . . 185, 190checking and replacing . . . . . . . . 190circuit breakers . . . . . . . . . . . 191

GGas cap (see Fuel cap). . . . . . . . . . 239Gas mileage (see Fuel economy) . . . . . 244Gasoline (see Fuel) . . . . . . . . . . . 239Gauges, Electronic

charging system gauge . . . . . . . . 15engine coolant temperature gauge . . . 10fuel gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17


303

odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21speedometer. . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)calculating . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177driving with a heavy load . . . . . . . 177location. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177

Gearshiftautomatic operation . . . . . . . . . 173column-mounted . . . . . . . . . . . 173locking the gearshift . . . . . . . . . 73positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173shifting the gears . . . . . . . . . . 173

GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)calculating . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177driving with a heavy load . . . . . . . 177location. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177

HHazard flashers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78Headlamps

aiming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 248autolamp system . . . . . . . . . . . 70cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 254daytime running lights . . . . . . . . 68flashing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76high beam . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76replacing bulbs. . . . . . . . . . . . 248turning on and off . . . . . . . . . . 69warning chime. . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Head restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119Heated mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101Heating

electronic automatic temperature controlsystem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

High beamsindicator light . . . . . . . . . . . . 13


304

High beams (continued)operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215latch location . . . . . . . . . . . . 215lubrication specifications . . . . . . . 259release lever. . . . . . . . . . . . . 215working under the hood . . . . . . . 213

Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

IIdle, relearning. . . . . . . . . . 208, 213Ignition

chime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75positions of the ignition . . . . . . . . 73removing the key . . . . . . . . . . 75

Infant seats (see Safety seats). . . . . . . 141Instrument cluster, electronic . . . . . . . 9Instrument panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Interval wipers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

JJack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193

operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196positioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193

Jump-starting your vehicleattaching cables . . . . . . . . . . . 206disconnecting cables . . . . . . . . . 208

KKeyless entry system

locking and unlocking doors . . . . . . 107programming entry code . . . . . . . 109

Keyskey in ignition chime . . . . . . . . . 75positions of the ignition . . . . . . . . 73removing from the ignition . . . . . . 75stuck in lock position . . . . . . . . . 75


305

LLamps

autolamp delay system . . . . . . . . 70checking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 248daytime running light system . . . . . 68flashing the lamps . . . . . . . . . . 76hazard flashers. . . . . . . . . . . . 78headlamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69high beams . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76interior lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . 71replacing bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . 248

Lane change indicator (see Turn signal) . . 75Lap belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134Lights, warning and indicator

air bag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14brake. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12charging system . . . . . . . . . . . 15check engine . . . . . . . . . . . . 14door ajar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32engine oil pressure . . . . . . . . . . 15hazard warning light . . . . . . . . . 78high beam . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

low washer fluid . . . . . . . . . . . 31oil pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15overdrive off. . . . . . . . . . . . . 31safety belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13trunk ajar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32turn signal indicator . . . . . . . . . 17

Load limitsGAWR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177GVWR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177trailer towing . . . . . . . . . . . . 179

Lubricant specifications . . . . . . . . . 259Luggage compartment . . . . . . . . . . 104Lug nuts

anti-theft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203standard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196tightening sequence . . . . . . . . . 194


306

MMaintenance schedule and record

(see separate Maintenance Scheduleand Record booklet) . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Maintenance (see Servicing) . . . . . . . 211Master cylinder, brakes . . . . . . . . . 221Memory seat (programmable

memory seat) . . . . . . . . . . . . 99Message center

door ajar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31low washer fluid . . . . . . . . . . . 31trunk ajar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Mileage, calculating fuel economy. . . . . 244Mirrors

automatic dimming rearview mirror. . . 89heated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101rearview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89side view mirrors . . . . . . . . . . 100

Moon roof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87Motorcraft parts . . . . . . . . . . . . 257

NNational Highway Traffic Safety

Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . 263New vehicle break-in . . . . . . . . . . . 5

OOctane rating . . . . . . . . . . . . . 241Odometer

description . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Oil filter. . . . . . . . . . . . . 220, 257Oil (see Engine oil) . . . . . . . . . . . 218Oil viscosity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218On-board diagnostic (OBD II) system . . . 248Overseas offices . . . . . . . . . . . . 272

PPanic alarm feature, remote entry system . 112Parking brake

operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168warning light . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Parts (see Motorcraft Parts) . . . . . . . 257


307

PCV valve, specifications . . . . . . . . 257Phone, cellular . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101Power features

mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89moon roof. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Power point electrical outlet . . . . . . . 73Power steering

dipstick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 229driving with power steering . . . . . . 173fluid, checking and adding. . . . . . . 229fluid, refill capacity . . . . . . . . . . 258fluid, specifications . . . . . . . . . . 259servicing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173

Programmable memory seat . . . . . . . 99

RRadio (see Electronic sound systems) . . . 33Rear axle

lubricant specification . . . . . . . . . 259refill capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . 258

Rearview mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . 89Refill capacities for fluids . . . . . . . . 258Regulations, National Highway Traffic Safety

Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . 263Remote entry system

arming and disarming theanti-theft system . . . . . . . . . . 112

locking/unlocking doors . . . . . . . . 111opening the trunk . . . . . . . . . . 111panic alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112replacement/additional transmitters . . . 114replacing the batteries . . . . . . . . 114

Reporting safety defects . . . . . . . . . 263


308

Restraints, safety (see Safety restraints)adult . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124child . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119infant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

Reverse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175Roadside emergencies . . . . . . . . . . 181Rotating the tires . . . . . . . . . . . . 234

SSafety belts (see Safety restraints) . . . . . 124Safety Compliance Certification Label . . . 177Safety defects, reporting . . . . . . . . . 263Safety information relating to

automotive fuels . . . . . . . . . . . 242Safety restraints

adjusting thesafety belts . . 126, 128, 130, 131, 134

automatic locking mode . . . . . . . . 130automatic locking mode (retractor) . . . 130center front lap belt . . . . . . . . . 134

center rear lap belt . . . . . . . . . . 134cleaning the safety belts . . . . . . . . 254extension assembly . . . . . . . . . . 134for adults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124for children . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140for infants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140for pregnant women . . . . . . . . . 124head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119lap and shoulder belts . . . . . . . . 126lap belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . 135proper use . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135warning light and chime . . . . . . . 13

Safety seats for childrenand air bags . . . . . . . . . . 131, 141attaching with tether straps . . . . . . 158automatic locking mode

(retractor) . . . . . . . . 130, 141, 143in front seat . . . . . . . . . . 141, 143


309

in rear outboard . . . . . . . . 141, 151in rear seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141tether anchorage hardware . . . . . . 158

Seat belts (see Safety restraints) . . . . . 124Seats

adjusting the seats, power . . . . . . . 121child safety seats . . . . . . . . . . . 141cleaning upholstery . . . . . . . . . . 255head restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . 119programmable memory seat . . . . . . 99

Service concerns . . . . . . . . . . . . 265Servicing your vehicle . . . . . . . . . . 211

precautions when servicing . . . . . . 213Shift positions (see Gearshift) . . . . . . 173Shoulder and lap belts

(see Safety restraints) . . . . . . . . . 126Shoulder belts

(see Safety restraints) . . . . . . . . . 126

Side mirrorsadjusting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100heated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Sliding moon roof (see Moon roof) . . . . 87Spare tire

changing the tire . . . . . . . . . . . 192conventional spare . . . . . . . . . . 193finding the spare . . . . . . . . . . . 193removing the spare tire . . . . . . . . 193storing the flat tire . . . . . . . . . . 193temporary spare . . . . . . . . . . . 192

Spark plugs, specifications . . . . . . . . 257Specification chart, lubricants. . . . . . . 259Speed control, turning off . . . . . . . . 83Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Starting your vehicle

preparing to start your vehicle . . . . . 161starting a cold engine . . . . . . . . . 162starting after a collision . . . . . . . . 181starting a warm engine . . . . . . . . 163starting your vehicle if the battery

is disabled. . . . . . . . . . . . . 204


310

Steering, power . . . . . . . . . . . . 173Steering wheel

horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73tilting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Storing your vehicle. . . . . . . . . . . 260Sunroof (moon roof) . . . . . . . . . . 87Sun visor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90Supplemental air bag readiness light. . . . 14Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) . . . 135

TTail lamps

bulb replacement. . . . . . . . . . . 248cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 254

Temperature control (see Climate control) . 55Tether anchor installation

(see Child restraints) . . . . . . . . . 158Tilt steering wheel . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192checking the pressure. . . . . . . . . 234cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 255inspection and maintenance . . . . . . 234replacing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235rotating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234spare tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193storing your vehicle . . . . . . . . . 262tire grades . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235treadwear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 237wear bands . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235

Towing a trailer (see Trailer towing) . . . 179Towing your vehicle

using wheel dollies . . . . . . . . . . 209with a tow truck . . . . . . . . . . . 209

Traction assist . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170


311

Transmissionautomatic operation . . . . . . . . . 173fluid, checking and adding (automatic) . 230fluid, refill capacities . . . . . . . . . 258lubricant specifications . . . . . . . . 259

Transmission control switch . . . . . . . 175Trunk

trunk ajar warning light . . . . . . . . 32using the keys to open . . . . . . . . 104using the remote entry system to open . 111

Tune-up specifications (VECI) . . . . . . 246Turn signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

indicator lights. . . . . . . . . . . . 17lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

UUsed engine oil, disposal . . . . . . . . 212

VVariable interval wipers . . . . . . . . . 77VECI (Vehicle Emission Control Information)

decal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 246Vehicle loading

automatic transmissions . . . . . . . . 178calculating the load . . . . . . . . . . 178understanding loading information . . . 177

Vehicle storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . 260Ventilating your vehicle

(see Climate control) . . . . . . . . . 55Viscosity (see Engine oil) . . . . . . . . 218Visor (see Sun visor) . . . . . . . . . . 90


312

WWarm engine, starting. . . . . . . . . . 163Warning chimes

headlamps on . . . . . . . . . . . . 32key in ignition . . . . . . . . . . . . 75safety belt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Warranties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Warranty Information Booklet . . . . . . . 3Washer fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

reservoir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 222warning light . . . . . . . . . . . . 31windshield . . . . . . . . . . . . . 222

Weight limits (GAWR, GVWR) . . . . . . 177Wheel dollies (see Towing) . . . . . . . 209Wheels

anti-theft lugnuts . . . . . . . . . . . 203cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 255covers . . . . . . . . . . . . 194, 200inspection and maintenance . . . . . . 234lug nuts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194

Windowsone-touch down . . . . . . . . . . . 98power windows, operating. . . . . . . 98

Windshield, washing . . . . . . . . . . 77


313

Windshield washer fluid and wiperschecking and adding fluid . . . . . . . 222checking and replacing wiper blades . . 233low washer fluid light . . . . . . . . 31operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

reservoir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 222variable interval wipers . . . . . . . . 77

Windshield wipers and washer . . . . . . 77Wrecker towing . . . . . . . . . . . . 209


314

Service Station Information

File:17fngst.exUpdate:Thu Jun 20 15:17:47 1996

1997 lincoln town car

Documents

additional information

warningfinding information

specific information

q dealers

q integrity

q continuous improvement

q employee involvement

usethe quick index