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Table of Contents
Introduction .................................................... 1
Instrumentation .............................................. 7
Electronic Sound Systems ......................... 21
Controls and Features ................................ 47
Seating and Safety Restraints .................. 89
Starting ......................................................... 125
Driving ......................................................... 133
Roadside Emergencies .............................. 155
Maintenance and Care ............................. 183
Capacities and Specifications ................. 237
Reporting Safety Defects
(U.S. Only) .................................................. 243
Customer Assistance ................................. 245
Accessories .................................................. 257
Quick Index ................................................ 265
Index ............................................................. 275
Service Station Information .................... 292

Introductory Information
Ford’s Commitment to You
At Ford Motor Company, excellence is the continuous
commitment to achieve the best result possible. It is dedication
to learning what you want, determination to develop the right
concept, and execution of that concept with care, precision, and
attention to detail. In short, excellence means being the standard
by which others are judged.
Our Guiding Principles
n Quality comes first. For your satisfaction, the quality of our
1
products and services must be our number one priority.
n You are the focus of everything we do. Our work must be
done with you in mind, providing better products and
services than our competition.
n Continuous improvement is essential to our success. We
must strive for excellence in everything we do: in our
products — in their safety and value — and in our services,
our human relations, our competitiveness, and our
profitability.
n Employee involvement is our way of life. We are a team.
We must treat one another with trust and respect.
n Dealers and suppliers are our partners. We must maintain
mutually beneficial relationships with dealers, suppliers, and
our other business associates.
n Integrity is never compromised. Our conduct worldwide
must be pursued in a manner that is socially responsible and
commands respect for its integrity and for its positive
contributions to society.

Things to Know About Using This Guide
Congratulations on the purchase of your new vehicle. This
guide has information about the equipment and the options for
your new vehicle. You may not have bought all of the options
available to you. If you do not know which information applies
to your vehicle, talk to your dealer.
This guide describes equipment and gives specifications for
equipment that was in effect when this guide was approved for
printing. Ford may discontinue models or change specifications
or design without any notice and without incurring obligation.
NOTES and WARNINGS
NOTES give you additional information about the subject
matter you are referencing.
WARNINGS remind you to be especially careful in those areas
where carelessness can cause damage to your vehicle or
personal injury to yourself, your passengers or other people.
Please read all WARNINGS carefully.
2
RWARNING
Finding Information in This Guide
After you have read this guide once, you will probably return
to it when you have a specific question or need additional
information. To help you find specific information quickly, you
can use the Quick Index, Table of Contents, or the Index.
The Quick Index at the end of the book provides a page
number following each item which indicates where detailed
information can be found.

To use the Index, turn to the back of the book and search in the
alphabetical listing for the word that best describes the
information you need. If the word you chose is not listed, think
of other related words and look them up. We have designed the
Index so that you can find information under a technical term.
Canadian Owners — French Version
French Owner Guides can be obtained from your dealer or by
writing to Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited, Service
Publications, P.O. Box 1580, Station B, Mississauga, Ontario L4Y
4G3.
Your Maintenance Schedule and Record
Booklet
The Maintenance Schedule and Record booklet lists the services
that are most important for keeping your vehicle in good
condition. A record log is also provided to help you keep track
of all services performed.
About the Warranties
Your vehicle is covered by three types of warranties: Basic
Vehicle Warranty, Extended Warranties on certain parts, and
Emissions Warranties.
Read your Warranty Information Booklet carefully to find out
about your vehicle’s warranties and your basic rights and
responsibilities.
If you lose your Warranty Information Booklet, you can get a new
one free of charge. Contact any Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer,
or refer to the addresses and phone numbers on the first page
of this owner guide.
3

Buying a Ford Extended Service Plan
If you bought your vehicle in the U.S., you can buy a Ford
Extended Service Plan for your vehicle. This optional contract
provides service protection for a longer period of time than the
basic warranty that comes with your vehicle.
You do not have to buy this option when you buy your vehicle.
However, your option to purchase the Ford Extended Service
Plan runs out after 18 months or 18,000 miles. See your dealer
for more details about the Ford Extended Service Plan.
If you purchased a Canadian vehicle and did not take
advantage of the Ford Extended Service Plan at the time of
purchase, you may still be eligible. See your dealer for the
details.
Special Notice
NOTICE TO OWNERS OF UTILITY-TYPE
VEHICLES
As with other vehicles of this type, failure to operate this
vehicle correctly may result in loss of control or an accident. Be
sure to read the Additional Special Driving Instructions for Utility
Vehicles in this book and the special supplement included with
four-wheel drive vehicles entitled 4-Wheeling with Ford.
Although this special supplement is primarily directed to
four-wheel drive vehicle operators, these principles of safe
driving also apply to operators of the two-wheel drive Explorer.
Even though you may not select a 4WD or AWD option for
your Explorer, many of its operating characteristics are similar
to those of a four-wheel drive vehicle. For this reason, Ford
urges you to read and understand the contents of the 4-Wheeling
with Ford supplement.
4

5
AMBULANCE PACKAGES
RWARNING
Do not use this vehicle as an ambulance.
Breaking Your Vehicle In
Your new vehicle goes through an adjustment or break-in
period during the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km) that you drive it.
During the break-in period, you need to pay careful attention to
how you drive your vehicle.
n Avoid sudden stops. Because your vehicle has new brake
linings, you should take these steps:
— Watch traffic carefully so that you can anticipate when to
stop.
— Begin braking well in advance.
— Apply the brakes gradually.
The break-in period for new brake linings lasts for 100 miles
(160 km) of city driving or 1,000 miles (1,600 km) of
highway driving.
n Wheel lug nuts must be retightened to proper torque
specifications at 500 miles/800 km of new vehicle operation.
Proper torque specifications are provided in this guide. Also
retighten to proper torque specification at 500 miles/800 km
after any wheel change or any other time the wheel lug nuts
have been loosened.
n Use only the type of engine oil that Ford recommends. See
Engine oil recommendations in the Index. Do not use special
“break-in” oils.

Some vehicles are equipped with a Powertrain Control Module
that limits engine speeds with a cut-out mode to promote
durability.
Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle
Pollen, bird droppings and tree sap can damage the paint,
especially in hot weather. Wash your vehicle as often as
necessary to keep it clean.
Take similar precautions if your vehicle is exposed to chemical
industrial fallout.
Paint damage resulting from fallout is not related to a defect in
paint materials or workmanship and therefore is not covered by
warranty. Ford, however, believes that continual improvement
in customer satisfaction is a high priority. For this reason, Ford
has authorized its dealers to repair, at no charge to the owner,
the surfaces of new vehicles damaged by environmental fallout
within 12 months or 12,000 miles (20,000 km) of purchase,
whichever comes first. Customers may be required to bring their
vehicle in for inspection by a Ford representative.
Washing and Polishing Your Vehicle
Wash the outside of your vehicle, including the underside, with
a mild detergent.
DO NOT:
n Wash your vehicle with hot water
n Wash your vehicle while it sits in direct sunlight
n Wash your vehicle while the body is hot
Polish your vehicle to remove harmful deposits and protect the
finish.
6

Cleaning Chrome and Aluminum Parts
Wash chrome and aluminum parts with a mild detergent. Do
not use steel wool, abrasive cleaners, fuel or strong detergents.
Cleaning Plastic Parts
Some of your vehicle’s exterior trim parts are plastic. Clean with
a tar and road oil remover if necessary. Use a vinyl cleaner for
routine cleaning.
Do not clean plastic parts with thinners, solvents or
petroleum-based cleaners.
If you have your vehicle rustproofed, remove oversprayed
rustproofing with a tar and road oil remover. If rustproofing is
not removed from plastic and rubber parts, it can cause
deterioration.
Because your vehicle’s side mouldings are painted in lacquer, do
not use thinners or solvents to clean them.
7

7
Instrumentation
The instrument panel (dashboard) on your
vehicle is divided into several different sections.
The illustrations on the following pages show
the major parts of the instrument panel that are
described in this chapter. Some items shown
may not be on all vehicles.
In your vehicle, the warning lights and gauges
are grouped together on the instrument panel.
We call this grouping an instrument cluster.

The Mechanical Cluster
Instrument cluster
8

9
Warning light locations on the instrument cluster

The instrument cluster on the Probe GT model is
similar to the one shown. The two exceptions
are: the speedometer on the GT model shows
140 mph (225 km/h) and it has a 7,000 rpm
red-line tachometer.
GT model speedometer and tachometer
The following warning lights and gauges are on
the cluster. All of the warning lights and gauges
alert you to possible problems with your vehicle.
The following sections detail what each of these
indicators means.
10

Indicator Lights and Chimes
Safety Belt Warning Light and Chime
This warning light and chime remind you to
fasten your safety belt. If you do not fasten your
safety belt before the ignition is turned to ON,
the chime will sound for 4 to 8 seconds and the
warning light will illuminate for 1 to 2 minutes,
or until the safety belt is fastened. If you fasten
the safety belt before the ignition is turned to
ON, neither the light nor chime will activate.
Safety belt light
Air Bag Readiness Light
This light illuminates for six seconds when the
ignition is turned to the ON position. If the light
fails to illuminate, continues to flash, remains on,
or if a series of five beeps is heard, have the
system serviced as soon as possible.
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Air bag readiness light

12
RWARNING
If any of these things happen, even
intermittently, have the air bag system
serviced at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury
dealer immediately.
Brake System Warning Light
Your vehicle has a divided brake system. If one
part isn’t working, the other part can still work
and stop you. For good braking, though, you
need both systems working well. If the warning
light illuminates, there could be a problem. Have
your brake system inspected right away.
This light should illuminate as you start the
vehicle. If it doesn’t illuminate then, have it
fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a
problem.
Brake system and parking brake light
This light illuminates briefly when you turn the
ignition key to START. It normally goes off
shortly after the engine starts and you release
the parking brake, but it may stay on for up to
60 seconds. If the light stays on for longer than
60 seconds or comes on after you have fully
released the parking brake, have the hydraulic
brake system serviced.

This light will also illuminate if the parking
brake does not release fully. If it does stay on
after the parking brake is fully released, it
means there may be a brake problem. Pull off
the road and stop carefully. You may notice that
the pedal is harder to push, the pedal may go
closer to the floor, or it may take longer to stop
the vehicle. Try the brakes again after you have
stopped.
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RWARNING
The BRAKE light indicates that the brakes
may not be working properly. Have the
brakes checked immediately.
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light
When the ignition switch is turned to the ON
position, the anti-lock brake system warning
light will illuminate. When the engine is started,
the anti-lock brake system control unit will
determine if all components of the system are
operating correctly. The warning light could
remain on for two to four seconds.
The anti-lock brake system warning light
RWARNING
If the anti-lock brake system warning
light remains on or comes on while
driving, have the braking system checked
by a qualified service technician as soon
as possible.

NOTE: If a fault occurs in the anti-lock
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system, and the brake warning light is
not lit, the anti-lock system is disabled
but normal brake function remains
operational.
NOTE: If your vehicle must be jump-started
because of a low battery, the Anti-Lock
Brake System warning light could
remain on. This is due to low battery
voltage and does not indicate a
malfunction in the system. Under these
circumstances, you should drive your
vehicle only after the battery has had
time to charge and the light has gone
out.
The Low Fuel Light
This light illuminates when fuel level in your
tank has reached approximately 2-3 gallons (7-10
liters).
Low fuel light

15
High Beam Light
This light illuminates when the headlamps are
turned to high beam or when you flash the
lights.
High beam light
Check Engine Warning Light
This light illuminates when the electronic engine
control system is not working properly. This is
the computer that controls the operating
conditions of the engine.
Check engine warning light
This light illuminates briefly when you turn the
ignition to the ON position, but should turn off
when the engine starts. If the light does not
come on when you turn the ignition to the ON
position or if it comes on and stays on when
you are driving, have your vehicle serviced as
soon as possible. This indicates a possible
problem with one of the engine’s emission
control systems. You do not need to have your
vehicle towed in.

If the light flashes briefly while you are driving,
it means that the condition is no longer present.
O/D OFF Light (If equipped)
This light tells you that the overdrive off (O/D
OFF) button on the shift selector has been
pushed. When the light is on, the transaxle will
not shift into overdrive. Depressing the button
on the shift selector again will return the vehicle
to “overdrive on” mode. The transaxle will be in
the “overdrive on” mode when the vehicle is
started even if the O/D OFF mode was selected
when the vehicle was last shut off. Refer to the
Driving chapter for more information.
If the light does not illuminate when the O/D
OFF button is pressed, or if the light flashes
when you are driving, have your vehicle
serviced at the first opportunity. If this condition
persists, damage could occur to the transaxle.
Overdrive OFF light
Gauges
Fuel Gauge
The fuel gauge displays approximately how
much fuel you have in the fuel tank.
The ignition must be turned off while putting
fuel in the tank in order to get a correct fuel
gauge reading after the ignition is turned on.
16

The fuel gauge indicator may vary slightly while
the vehicle is in motion. This is the result of fuel
movement within the tank. You can get a more
accurate reading with the vehicle on smooth,
level ground.
Charging System Gauge
This gauge tells you your battery’s voltage when
you turn your ignition key to ON. When you
start your engine, the pointer should move to
the NORMAL range if you are not operating
any electrical accessories. (If electrical accessories
are operating and the engine is not running, the
pointer may move into the red area).
If the pointer moves into the red area when no
electrical accessories are operating, have the
vehicle’s electrical system checked.
Engine Oil Pressure Gauge
The gauge needle should stay in the NORMAL
range (indicating normal engine oil pressure). If
the needle drops below the NORMAL range into
the low range, there is a loss of oil pressure.
If this happens:
1. Pull off the road as soon as safely possible.
2. Shut off the engine immediately or severe
17
engine damage could result.
3. Check the oil level when the vehicle is on
level ground.
4. Add only as much oil as the engine needs
before you drive the vehicle again. Do not
overfill the oil reservoir. For more
information, see Adding engine oil in the
Index.

Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge
This gauge indicates the temperature of the
engine coolant, not the coolant level. If the
coolant is not at its proper level or mixture, the
gauge indication will not be accurate.
The pointer usually moves from C (cold) into
the NORMAL band as your vehicle warms up.
Under most driving conditions, the pointer
should stay in the NORMAL band. If you are
driving in heavy traffic or on an extended grade
in hot weather, the pointer may reach to the top
of the NORMAL band.
If, under any circumstances, the pointer moves
above the NORMAL band, the engine is
overheating and continued operation may cause
engine damage.
If your engine overheats:
1. Pull off the road as soon as it is safely
18
possible.
2. Shut off the engine immediately or severe
engine damage could result.
3. Let the engine cool.
4. Check the coolant level following the
instructions on checking and adding coolant
to your engine. (See Engine coolant in the
Index.) If you do not follow these
instructions, you or others could be injured.
For instructions on checking and adding coolant
to your engine, see Engine coolant in the Index. If
you do not follow these instructions, you or
others could be injured.

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5. Refer to Adding Engine Coolant in the
Maintenance and Care chapter. Add as much
coolant as your engine needs. If the engine
continues to overheat, have the cooling
system serviced.
Speedometer
The speedometer tells you how many miles
(kilometers) per hour your vehicle is moving.
Odometer
The odometer tells you the total number of miles
(kilometers) your vehicle has been driven.
Trip Odometer
Use the trip odometer to track your mileage.
Simply set the trip odometer to zero by pressing
the reset button.
Tachometer
The tachometer indicates approximate engine
revolutions per minute, and is located on the
right-hand side of the instrument cluster. The
tachometer pointer may move slightly when the
key is placed in the ACC or ON position, with
the engine off. This pointer movement is normal,
and will not affect the accuracy of the
tachometer once the engine is running.

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Electronic Sound Systems
Compact Disc Radio

Compact Disc Radio
The Compact Disc Radio combines the Electronic
Stereo Radio with the Ford Compact Disc Player.
Using the Controls on Your New Radio/CD
Player
Most of the features of this unit work for both
radio and CD operation, depending on which
mode the unit is in. Also, some of the buttons
control several different functions, so be sure to
read all of the operating instructions carefully.
How to turn the radio on and off
Press the “POWER” button to turn the radio on.
Press it again to turn it off.
How to adjust the volume
Press the (R/S) side of the “VOL” button to
increase/decrease the volume. Bars illuminate in
the display to show the relative volume level.
NOTE: If the volume level is set above a
22
certain listening level when the
ignition switch is turned off, when the
ignition switch is turned back on, the
volume will come back to a “nominal”
listening level. However, if the radio
power is turned off, the volume will
remain in the position it was set at
when radio power was switched off.
Selecting the AM or FM frequency band
Push the “AM/FM” button to select the desired
frequency band. When in the radio mode,
pushing the button more than once will alternate
between AM, FM1 and FM2. These functions are
used with the station memory buttons described
under How to tune radio stations.

How to tune radio stations
There are four ways for you to tune in a
particular station. You can manually locate the
station using the “SCAN/TUNE” button,
“SEEK” the station, “SCAN” to the station or
select the station by using the memory buttons,
which you can set to any desired frequency.
These four methods are described below.
qUsing the “SCAN/TUNE” button to manually
tune
You can change the frequency up or down
one increment at a time (FM changes in
increments of 200kHz; AM changes in
increments of 10kHz) by first pressing the
“SCAN/TUNE” button twice (display shows
“TUNE”), then — within approximately five
seconds —pressing and releasing either the
top (b) or bottom (a) half of the “SEEK”
button. To change frequencies quickly, press
and hold down either the top or bottom half
of the “SEEK” button.
Manual tuning adjusts your radio to any
allowable broadcast frequency, whether or
not a station is present on that frequency.
(See All About Radio Frequencies in this
section.)
qUsing the “SEEK” function
This feature on your radio allows you to
automatically select listenable stations up or
down the frequency band. Press the top (a)
half of the “SEEK” button to select the next
listenable station up the frequency band.
Press the bottom (b) half of the button to
select the next listenable station down the
frequency band. By pressing and holding the
button, listenable stations can be passed over
to reach the desired station.
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qUsing the “SCAN/TUNE” button to scan
radio stations
Pressing the “SCAN/TUNE” button once
enters the scan mode (display will indicate
“SCN”). Pushing the top (a) half of the
“SEEK” button will begin the scan mode up
the frequency band, stopping on each
listenable station for approximately five
seconds. Pushing the bottom (b) half of the
“SEEK” button will begin the scan mode
down the frequency band, again stopping on
each listenable station for approximately five
seconds.
To stop the scan mode on the presently
sampled station, press the “SCAN/TUNE”
button again.
qSetting the Station Memory Preset buttons
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Your radio is equipped with 5 station
memory buttons. These buttons can be used
to select up to 5 preset AM stations and 10
FM stations (5 in FM1 and 5 in FM2). Follow
the easy steps below to set these buttons to
the desired frequencies.
1. Select a band, then select a frequency.
2. Press one of the memory preset buttons and
hold the button until the sound returns. That
station is now held in memory on that
button.
3. Follow the two steps above for each station
memory preset button you want to set.
NOTE: If the vehicle’s battery is disconnected,
the clock and station memory preset
buttons will need to be reset.

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qUsing the Automatic Memory Load feature
You can activate the Auto Memory Load
feature by pressing and holding the “AUTO
PRESET” button for approximately three
seconds. Auto Memory Load sets all memory
buttons in AM, FM1 and FM2 sequentially by
seeking out the first five strong stations for
the respective band and storing them in
memory buttons 1-5. (FM2 will store the
second set of strong stations from the FM
band.)
With Auto Memory Store, you can continually
set strong stations into your memory buttons
without losing your existing memory presets,
which is especially helpful while traveling. Your
radio will automatically set your memory
buttons to the strong local stations so you don’t
have to continually manually tune to existing
stations.
Activate Auto Memory Store by pushing the
“AUTO PRESET” button once. Your radio will
set the first five strong stations of the band you
are in (AM, FM1 or FM2) into the memory
buttons. The display will show “AUTO,” then
run through the frequencies, stopping
momentarily on the stations being set into the
memory buttons. The radio is now in the
“AUTO” mode and the display will show
“AUTO” each time a preset is activated.
NOTE: If there are fewer than five strong
stations in the frequency band, the
remaining unfilled buttons will store
the last strong station detected on the
band.
After all stations have been filled, the radio will
begin playing the station stored on memory
button 1.

To deactivate the Auto Memory Store mode and
return to the manually-set memory button
stations (or those stations set using Auto
Memory Load), simply push the “AUTO
PRESET” button. Display will show “AUTO”
then “OFF.” The next time Auto Memory Store
is activated on that band, the radio will store the
next set of five strong stations.
Using the “AUDIO” button to adjust the
tone balance and speaker output
qIncreasing or decreasing bass response
Push the “AUDIO” button repeatedly until
the display reads “BASS.” Push the “+” side
of the “VOL” button to increase bass (more
“lows”), and push the “-” side to decrease
bass (less “lows”).
qIncreasing or decreasing treble response
the display reads “TREB.” Push the “+” side
of the “VOL” button to increase treble (more
“highs”), and push the “-” side to decrease
treble (less “highs”).
qAdjusting speaker balance
26
Balance control allows you to adjust the
sound distribution between the right and left
speakers. Push the “AUDIO” button
repeatedly until the display reads “BAL.”
Push the “+” side of the “VOL” button to
shift the sound to the right speakers, and
push the “-” side to shift the sound to the
left speakers.

27
qAdjusting speaker fader
Fade control allows you to adjust the sound
distribution between the front and rear
repeatedly until the display reads “FADE.”
Push the “+” side of the “VOL” button to
shift the sound to the front speakers, and
push the “-” side to shift the sound to the
rear speakers.
NOTE: Illuminated bars in the display show
relative levels of bass and treble and
positions of speaker balance and fader
functions after adjustments are made,
then revert to volume level set.
Clock operation
When in the radio mode, push the “CLOCK”
button to switch from radio frequency to clock.
Only the clock numerals will be displayed in the
clock mode — there is no A.M./P.M. indication.
When in the clock mode, the time will be
displayed until the button is pushed again.
However, if you retune the radio while it is in
the clock mode, the new radio frequency will be
displayed for approximately ten seconds and
then change back to clock.
When in the CD mode, push the “CLOCK”
button to change the display from elapsed time
mode to track number mode to clock mode. If
the CD track selection is changed when you are
in the clock or elapsed time mode, the new track
number will be displayed for approximately ten
seconds and then revert back to the previous
mode.

To set the clock, simultaneously press the
“CLOCK” button and either the bottom (b) half
of the “SEEK” button to set hours, or the top
(a) half of the “SEEK” button to set minutes.
Using the Controls on Your New Compact
Disc Player
Your new Ford Compact Disc Player is capable
of playing 12 cm or 8 cm discs, without an
adapter. The player operates when the power is
on and a disc is inserted (label side up). Handle
the disc by its edge only. (Be sure to read and
follow all of the care and cleaning instructions
under How To Take Care of and Clean Your CD
Player and Discs.)
NOTE: If after you insert a disc, the disc is
28
ejected and “ERROR” begins scrolling
in the display, remove the disc and
reinsert it right side up (label side up).
The digital display on your CD player will
either show the track (selection) number or the
elapsed time. (The display mode can be selected
by pressing the “CLOCK” button.) Indicators for
play (a), stop (X) and compression on (“C”)
are also in the display. (These features are
described later.)
Once a disc is inserted, operation of the CD
player will override that of the radio.
NOTE: The volume, bass, treble, balance and
fader controls on the radio are also
used with the CD player. Refer to
earlier operating instructions on these
controls.

29
How to insert a disc and begin play
Insert one disc, label side up into the disc
opening. When inserted, the disc automatically
loads into the unit and play starts at the
beginning of the first track (selection).
When the disc reaches the end, the disc player
automatically returns to the beginning of the
disc and resumes playing.
NOTE: Once a disc is inserted, the disc
opening is secured to prevent the
accidental insertion of a second disc.
NOTE: The CD player has heat protection
circuitry to protect the laser diode. If
the temperature of the player reaches
167°F (75°C), the heat detection circuit
will shut off the player and “TOO
HOT” will scroll in the display for
approximately five seconds (radio will
resume playing). When the temperature
returns to normal operating range, the
CD player will again be operational.
How to stop and restart the CD player
When a disc is loaded, the unit automatically
enters the play mode and the play indicator (a)
illuminates. To stop temporarily, press the
“PLAY/STOP” button or the “AM/FM” button.
The stop indicator (X) in the display illuminates
and operation returns to the radio mode. To
resume CD play, press the “PLAY/STOP”
button once again.
NOTE: If the ignition key is turned OFF
during play and then is set to the ON
or ACCESSORY position, the CD
player will resume playing in the mode
it was in when ignition was turned off.

Using the “SEEK” feature
The “SEEK” feature allows you to quickly find a
particular selection on the disc.
Press the bottom (b) half of the “SEEK” button
once to repeat the current playing selection.
Press the top (a) half of the “SEEK” button to
advance to the next selection.
Pressing and holding the bottom (b) or top (a)
half of the “SEEK” button will scroll backward
and forward respectively through the tracks.
How to fast forward or reverse your CD
player
To quickly search for a particular point in a
selection, press the “FF” button (to fast forward)
or the “REV” button (to reverse). While either
button is pressed, the disc goes forward or
backward at two different speeds depending on
how long the button is held down. (Pressing
either button for more than three seconds will
speed up the process.) Release the button at the
desired point (found by watching the elapsed
playing time in the display or by listening to the
sound during fast forward or reverse). When
you have reached the beginning of track 1, the
CD player will begin playing.
When you have reached the end of the disc by
keeping the fast forward button pressed, the
display will show “END” and the player will go
into pause mode. Push the “PLAY/STOP”
button to begin playing the first track of the
disc, press the “REV” button to back up from
the end of the disc, or use the “SEEK” function
to locate a desired track.
30

Using the “SCAN” function
Press the “SCAN/TUNE” button to enter the
scan mode. Once in the scan mode, press the top
(b) or bottom (a) half of the “SEEK” button to
scan forward or reverse, respectively. The CD
player will begin scanning the disc, stopping on
each listenable track for approximately an
eight-second sampling. This continues until you
press the “SCAN/TUNE” button a second time.
How to eject the disc
Push the “EJECT” button to stop play, eject the
disc and resume radio operation of your audio
system.
NOTE: You can eject the disc while the radio
31
power and/or ignition is on or off.
How To Take Care of and Clean Your CD
Player and Discs
To ensure the continued performance of your
Ford Compact Disc Player, carefully read the
following precautions:
qAlways handle the disc by its edge. Never
touch the playing surface.
qBefore playing, inspect the disc for any
contamination. If needed, clean the disc with
an approved disc cleaner, such as the
DiscwasherH Compact Disc Cleaner or the
Allsop 3H Compact Disc Cleaner, by wiping
from the center out to the edges. Do not use
a circular motion to clean.
qDo not clean discs with solvents such as
benzine, thinner, commercially available
cleaners or antistatic spray intended for
analog records.

qDo not expose the disc to direct sunlight or
heat sources such as defroster and floor
heating ducts. Do not leave any discs in a
parked car in direct sunlight where there may
be a considerable rise in temperature or
damage may result.
qAfter playing, store the disc in its case.
qIf a disc has already been inserted, do not try
to insert another disc. Doing so may damage
the disc player.
qDo not insert anything other than a disc into
the disc player.
NOTE: The use of optical instruments with
32
this product will increase eye hazard as
the laser beam used in this compact
disc player is harmful to the eyes. Do
not attempt to disassemble the case.
Refer servicing to qualified personnel
only.
Common Operating Conditions of Your
CD Player
The following information is designed to help
you recognize typical situations that could be
mistakenly interpreted as mechanical
malfunctions of the disc player.
qA disc is already loaded.
qThe disc is inserted with the label surface
downward.
qThe disc is dusty or defective.
qThe player’s internal temperature is above
140°F (60°C). Allow the player to cool off
before operating.

qDifferent manufacturers of compact discs may
produce discs with different dimensions or
tolerances, some of which may not be within
industry standards or in accordance with the
CD format. Because of this, a new disc that is
free of dust and scratches could be defective
and may not play on your Ford Compact
Disc Player.
If play does not begin after the CD button is
pushed:
qThe radio is not on.
qThe unit is in the stop mode.
qMoisture may have condensed on the lenses
within the unit. If this occurs, remove the
disc and wait approximately an hour until the
moisture evaporates.
33
If the sound skips:
qBadly scratched discs or extremely rough
roads will cause the sound to skip. Skipping
will not damage the disc player or scratch the
discs.

Electronic Stereo and Stereo
Cassette Radios
Electronic Stereo Radio
34

35
Electronic Stereo Radio with Cassette

Using the Controls on Your New Radio
How to turn the radio on and adjust the
volume
Press the “POWER” button to turn the radio on.
Press it again to turn it off.
Press the right (+) side of the “VOLUME”
button to increase the volume. Press the left (S)
side of the button to decrease the volume.
Illuminated bars in the display show the relative
volume level.
NOTE: If the volume level is set above a
36
certain listening level when the
ignition switch is turned off, when the
ignition switch is turned back on, the
volume will come back to a “nominal”
listening level. However, if the radio
power is turned off, the volume will
remain in the position it was set at
when radio power was switched off.
Selecting the AM or FM frequency band
Push the “AM/FM” button to select the desired
frequency band. Pushing the button more than
once will alternate between AM, FM1 and FM2.
These functions are used with the station
memory buttons described under How to tune
radio stations.
How to tune radio stations (Stereo Radio)
There are three ways for you to tune in to a
station by using the “TUNE” button, “SEEK” the
station or select the station by using the memory
preset buttons, which you can set to any desired
frequency.

How to tune radio stations (Stereo Cassette
Radio)
There are four ways for you to tune in to a
station by using Automatic Music Search
“AMS”, “SEEK” the station, “SCAN” to the
station or select the station by using the memory
buttons, which you can set to any desired
frequency.
qUsing the “TUNE” function (Stereo Radio)
one increment at a time by pressing and
releasing either the right (+) or left (S) side
of the “TUNE” button. To change frequencies
quickly, press and hold down either the right
or left side of the “TUNE” button.
Manual tuning adjusts your radio to any
allowable broadcast frequency, whether or
not a station is present on that frequency.
(See All About Radio Frequencies in this
section.)
qUsing the “AMS” function to manually tune
your radio (Stereo Cassette Radio)
one increment at a time by first pressing the
“AMS” button (display shows “TUNE”) then
within approximately five seconds pressing
and releasing either the right a or left b
side of the “SEEK” button. To change
frequencies quickly, press and hold down
either the right or left side of the “SEEK”
button.
37

qUsing the “SEEK” function
This feature on your radio allows you to
automatically select listenable stations up or
down the frequency band. Press the right a
side of the “SEEK” button to select the next
listenable station up the frequency band.
Press the left b side of the button to select
the next listenable station down the
frequency band. By holding the button down,
listenable stations can be passed over to reach
the desired station.
qUsing the “SCAN” function (Stereo Cassette
Radio)
Press the “SCAN” button to enter the scan
mode. The radio will begin scanning up the
frequency band, stopping on each listenable
station for approximately a five-second
sampling. This continues until you press the
“SCAN” button a second time.
qSetting the Station Memory Preset buttons
38
Your radio is equipped with 5 station
memory buttons. These buttons can be used
to select up to 5 preset AM stations and 10
preset FM stations (5 in FM1 and 5 in FM2).
Follow the easy steps below to set these buttons
to the desired frequencies:
1. Select a band, then select a frequency.
2. Press one of the memory preset buttons and
hold the button until the sound returns. That
station is now held in memory on that
button.
3. Follow the two steps above for each station
memory preset button you want to set.

NOTE: If the vehicle’s battery is disconnected,
39
the clock and station memory preset
buttons will need to be reset.
Adjusting the tone balance and speaker
output of your radio
qIncreasing or decreasing bass response
the display reads “BASS.” Push the right (+)
side of the “VOLUME” button to increase
bass (more “lows”), and push the left (S)
side to decrease bass (less “lows”).
qIncreasing or decreasing treble response
the display reads “TREB.” Push the right (+)
side of the “VOLUME” button to increase the
treble (more “highs”), and push the left (S)
side to decrease treble (less “highs”).
Speaker features and operation
qAdjusting speaker balance
Balance control allows you to adjust the
sound distribution between the right and left
repeatedly until the display reads “BAL.”
Push the right (+) side of the “VOLUME”
button to shift the sound to the right
speakers, and push the left (S) side to shift
the sound to the left speakers.

qAdjusting speaker fader
40
Fade control allows you to adjust the sound
distribution between the front and rear
repeatedly until the display reads “FADE.”
Push the right (+) side of the “VOLUME”
button to shift the sound to the front
speakers, and push the left (S) side to shift
the sound to the rear speakers.
NOTE: Illuminated bars in the display show
relative levels of bass and treble and
positions of speaker balance and fader
functions after adjustments are made,
then revert to volume level set.
Using the Controls of Your Cassette Tape
Player (If equipped)
How to insert a tape
Insert a cassette (with the open edge to the
right) firmly into the tape door opening, making
sure the cassette is completely in and “seated.”
NOTE: A cassette tape can be loaded with the
ignition on whether or not the radio
power is on. Inserting a cassette tape
with the radio power off will turn the
audio system on. After the cassette is
ejected, radio play will return.
How to locate a desired track on the tape
NOTE: The tape track or side number
indicated in the display does not
necessarily correspond to the tape track
or side number on the cassette label. It
is used only to indicate when the tape
mechanism reverses tracks.

qUsing the Automatic Music Search (“AMS”)
function with cassette tape player
Press and hold the “AMS” button (“AMS” will
appear in the display). Then, push the lefth
button to rewind to the beginning of the current
selection or press the rightgbutton to fast
forward to the beginning of the next selection.
qFast forwarding the tape
41
Push the rightgbutton to fast forward
the tape.
qRewinding the tape
Push the lefthbutton to rewind the tape.
qHow to change the side of the tape being
played
The alternate track (other side) of the tape
can be selected at any time by pushing both
fast-wind buttons (handg) at the
same time. The number in the display will
alternate between 1 and 2.
How to eject the tape
To stop the tape and eject the cassette, press the
eject (i) button. The radio will resume playing.
Using the DolbyH B noise reduction feature
NOTE: Noise reduction system manufactured
under license from Dolby Labs
Licensing Corporation. “Dolby” and
double-D symbol are trademarks of
Dolby Laboratories Licensing
Corporation.
Push station memory button 3 to activate DolbyH
B Noise Reduction.

Tips on Caring for the Cassette Player and
Tapes
In order to keep your cassette tape player
performing the way it was meant to, read and
follow these simple precautions:
qUsing a Ford or equivalent cassette cleaning
cartridge to clean the tape player head after
10-12 hours of play will help maintain the
best playback sound and proper tape
operation.
qOnly cassettes that are 90 minutes long or
less should be used. Tapes longer than 90
minutes are thinner and subject to breakage
or may jam the tape player mechanism.
qProtect cassettes from exposure to direct
sunlight, high humidity and extreme heat or
cold. If they are exposed to extreme
conditions, allow them to reach a moderate
temperature before playing.
qIf a tape is loose inside the cassette, tighten it
before playing by putting your finger or a
pencil into one of the holes and turning the
hub until the tape is tight.
qLoose labels on cassette tapes can become
lodged in the mechanism. Remove any loose
label material before inserting a cassette.
qDo not leave a tape in the cassette tape
player when not in use. High heat in the
vehicle can cause the cassette to warp.
42

Clock Operation
How to view the clock mode
Press the “CLOCK” button to alternate the
frequency and time in the display. In the clock
mode, pressing any radio function will
automatically display the radio frequency for
approximately ten seconds before changing back
to the clock mode.
How to set the clock
1. Turn the radio on.
2. Press and hold in the “CLOCK” button.
Press the “SEEK” button left (b) to advance
the hours and right (a) to advance the
minutes.
43
NOTE: The clock displays 12-hour time with
no AM/PM indications.
Radio Antenna
The radio antenna is mounted on the rear
passenger side quarter panel of the vehicle. It is
a fixed mast antenna and cannot be retracted.
Common Radio Reception Conditions
Several conditions prevent FM reception from
being completely clear and noise-free, such as
the following:
1. Distance/Strength
The strength of the FM signal is directly related
to the distance the signal must travel. The
listenable range of an average FM signal is
approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers). Beyond
this distance, the radio is operating in a fringe
area and the signal becomes weaker.

2. Terrain
The terrain (hilly, mountainous, tall buildings) of
the area over which the signal travels may
prevent the FM signal from being noise-free.
Repeated pops and hisses which are heard
during an otherwise clear broadcast can occur
near the station because of the “line of sight”
characteristic of FM radio waves.
If there is a building or large structure between
the antenna and station, some of the signal
“bends” around the building, but certain spots
receive almost no signal. Moving out of the
“shadow” of the structure will allow the station
to return to normal.
When the radio waves are reflected off objects or
structures, the reflected signal cancels the normal
signal, causing the antenna to pick up noise and
distortion. Cancellation effects are most
prominent in metropolitan areas, but also can
become quite severe in hilly terrain and
depressed roadways.
To minimize these conditions, a stereo/mono
blend circuit has been incorporated into this
system. This feature automatically switches a
weak stereo signal to a clearer monaural signal,
which improves the quality of reception.
Several sources of static are normal conditions
on AM frequencies. These can be caused by
power lines, electric fences, traffic lights and
thunderstorms.
Another reception phenomenon is Strong Signal
Capture and Overload. This can occur when
listening to a weak station and when passing
another broadcast tower. The close station may
capture the more distant station, although the
44

displayed frequency does not change. While
passing the tower, the station may switch back
and forth a few times before returning to the
original station.
When several broadcast towers are present
(common in metropolitan areas), several stations
may overload the receiver, resulting in
considerable station changing, mixing and
distortion.
Automatic gain control circuitry for both AM
and FM bands has been incorporated into this
system to reduce strong signal capture and
overload.
All About Radio Frequencies
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
and the Canadian Radio Telecommunications
Commission (CRTC) establish the frequencies
that AM and FM radio stations may use for
their broadcasts. 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.
Not all frequencies will be assigned to a given
area. This radio will tune to each of these
frequencies using manual tune and no fine
tuning is necessary as radio stations may not use
other frequencies.
Some FM radio stations advertise a
“rounded-off” frequency which is not the
frequency they actually broadcast on. For
example, a radio station that is assigned a
frequency of 98.7 MHz may call itself “Radio 99”
even though 99.0 MHz is not an allowable FM
broadcast frequency.
45

Important Warranty and Service
Information
qWarranty
Your sound system is warranted for three years
or 36,000 miles (60,000 kilometers), whichever
comes first. Consult your vehicle warranty
booklet for further information. Ask your dealer
for a copy of this limited warranty.
qService
At Ford, we stand behind our audio systems
with a comprehensive service and repair
program. If anything should go wrong with
your Ford audio system, return to your dealer
for service. There is a nationwide network of
qualified Ford authorized repair centers to assist
you.
46

47
Controls and Features
Your vehicle has a variety of features designed
for your comfort, convenience and safety. Read
this chapter to find out about standard and
optional features.
The main controls for the climate control system,
clock, and radio are on the instrument panel.

NOTE: Any cleaner or polish that increases the
49
gloss (shine) of the upper part of the
instrument panel should be avoided.
The dull finish in this area is to help
protect the driver from undesirable
windshield reflection.
The Climate Control System
Heating Only System (Without Air
Conditioning)
Function selection
The heater in your vehicle has three controls
used for air direction, temperature and fan
speed. The function selector control lets you
direct heated or unheated air through the
instrument panel registers, or down to the floor.
It also allows you to vent your vehicle with
outside air.
Heating only system control panel
Turning the function selector control all the way
to the right (V) directs air to defroster vents
and the side window defoggers only.
With the function selector control in the MIX
position, air is directed out the defrosters, side
defoggers and the floor heater outlets.

The FLOOR position directs air out the floor
outlets and the side window defoggers.
Ventilate your vehicle with outside air by
choosing the VENT position.
Temperature control
The air temperature can be adjusted by moving
the marker on the temperature control to the red
area for warm air, or to the blue area for
unheated air. The air will become warmer or
cooler depending on how far the control is
turned.
Fan speed control
Fan speed can be controlled by turning the
control from LO to HI.
Turning On the Heat
To heat the inside of your vehicle:
1. Turn the function selector control to FLOOR.
50
When FLOOR is selected, air is directed
through the floor registers, and a little air is
also directed at the windshield and side
windows to help prevent fogging.
2. Turn the temperature control all the way to
the right in the red area, or to the desired
temperature.
3. Set the fan at the desired speed.

51
Defrosting the Windshield and Side
Windows
1. Turn the function selector control to the
defrost position.
When V is selected, air is directed to the
windshield and side windows.
2. Turn the temperature control to the desired
temperature.
Heating and Defrosting at the Same Time
1. Set the function selector control to MIX.
2. Set the temperature and fan speed as
desired.
Ventilating Your Vehicle With Outside Air
On mild days, you may want to ventilate your
vehicle with outside air. To open the vents:
1. Turn the function selector control to VENT.
When VENT is selected, air is directed out of
the panel registers.
2. Turn the temperature control to the desired
temperature.
3. Set the H (fan speed) as desired.

Tips for controlling the temperature in your
vehicle
qTo vary the temperature inside your vehicle,
move the temperature selector toward the red
area for warmer air and toward the blue area
for cooler air.
qIf you drive with the fan off and the
windows closed, the windows may fog up.
To prevent fogging:
1. Set the function selector control to VENT,
52
MIX, FLOOR or the V position.
2. Set the desired temperature.
3. Set the H (fan speed) to the desired
position.
qDo not put objects under the front seats that
will interfere with the flow of air to the back
seats.
qRemove any snow, ice, or leaves from the
area below the windshield on the outside of
your vehicle. They could block the air intake.

Air Conditioning System (If equipped)
Operate the air conditioning by using the climate
controls on the center of the instrument panel.
Air conditioning controls
Sometimes you may notice slight engine surging
if you have the air conditioner on. This is
normal, as the system is designed to cycle the
compressor on and off to maintain desired
cooling. The reduced compressor operation
should benefit fuel economy.
On some vehicles with air conditioning,
wide-open throttle acceleration will temporarily
cut off the air conditioning.
Since the air conditioner removes a lot of
moisture from the air during operation, it is
normal for water to drip on the pavement under
the air conditioner drain after you have stopped
the vehicle.
Action for heating and windshield defrosting are
identical for cars equipped with either the
Heating Only System or the Heating and Air
Conditioning System. For instructions about these
functions, see the previous section, Heating Only
System. For instructions about using the air
conditioning, see the following sections.
53

If the inside of your vehicle is very warm, drive
for a few minutes with the windows down. This
forces most of the hot, stale air out of the
vehicle and helps the air conditioning cool the
vehicle faster.
MAX A/C
When MAX A/C is selected, cooled interior air
is recirculated through the system. This position
is more efficient than NORM A/C.
To cool your vehicle quickly in warm weather:
1. Turn the function selector control to MAX
54
A/C.
2. Turn the temperature control to the blue
(cool) area.
Because MAX A/C uses recirculated air, MAX is
usually more efficient than NORM A/C. You
can switch to outside air NORM A/C at any
time, especially after the vehicle has cooled
down.
You may notice a slight odor when using the
MAX A/C position. This is normal. If the odor
becomes annoying, switch the function selector
to NORM A/C.
To provide the most quiet operation when using
MAX A/C, reduce the fan speed after a
comfortable temperature has been reached.
NORM A/C
When maximum air conditioning is not needed,
you can use the NORM A/C position to cool
your vehicle with outside air. Cooling your
vehicle this way brings in outside air and is
quieter, but it is less efficient.

To cool your vehicle using outside air:
1. Turn the function selector control to NORM
55
A/C.
2. Turn the temperature control all the way to
left to the blue (cool) area.
In mild weather, setting the function selector
control in the VENT position will add cool air to
your vehicle without using the air conditioning.
You will get better fuel economy without using
the air conditioning.
Engine Idle Speed Control System
Genuine Ford air conditioning (either
factory-installed or dealer-installed) has an
engine idle speed control system that
compensates for engine speed loss that may
occur when the air conditioning compressor is
running. This idle speed control holds the engine
idle essentially constant, regardless of whether
the air conditioning system is on or off.
NOTE: Whenever service to the air
conditioning system is required, make
sure the service facility uses a
refrigerant recycling system. These
systems will capture the refrigerant for
reuse. Releasing certain refrigerants
into the atmosphere is hazardous to the
environment.

Rear Window Defroster (If equipped)
Rear window defroster button
The defroster for the rear window clears frost,
fog, or thin ice from both the inside and outside
of the rear window. The rear window defroster
button is located on the lower right of the
instrument panel below the climate control
panel. This button is also used to activate your
heated power mirrors (if equipped).
To defrost the rear window:
1. Clear any snow and/or ice from the rear
56
window.
2. Get in your vehicle and start the engine.
3. Press the rear defrost button. The indicator
light turns on.
The defroster turns off automatically after 15 to
25 minutes. If the window is not clear, turn on
the defroster again. It will also automatically
shut off any time the engine is shut off.
NOTE: Never use sharp instruments or
window cleaners with abrasives to
clean the inside of your rear window.
If you do, you may damage the heating
elements that are bonded to the inside
of the rear window and cause damage
to the rear window defroster.

Rear Window Wiper and Washer
The rear window wiper and washer buttons are
located on the instrument panel below the
climate control panel.
To operate the rear wiper, push the rear window
wiper button. Push the button a second time to
turn the wiper off. To operate the rear washer,
push and hold the rear window washer button
in. The washer will spray until the button is
released.
Fog Lamps (If equipped)
The fog lamps only operate when the headlamps
are on low beam. To activate fog lamps, push
the button on the control panel below the
climate controls. An indicator light on the button
will illuminate. Push the button again to turn
the fog lamps off.
57
Fog lamp button

Interior Lights
Lighting Up the Interior and Instrument
Panel
With the parking lamps or headlamps on, the
brightness of the instrument panel lighting can
be adjusted.
To brighten or dim the instrument panel
lighting, rotate the dimmer control thumbwheel
as desired.
Dimmer control thumbwheel
The dimmer control thumbwheel is located to
the left of the steering wheel on the instrument
panel.
Dome Lamp
The dome lamp illuminates whenever one of the
front doors is opened and turns off
automatically when the doors are closed. You
may turn the dome lamp on and off while the
doors are closed by using the ON/OFF switch
located on the interior/map lamp control panel.
58

Interior/map lamp control panel
Map lamps (if equipped)
The map lamps can be turned on by using the
interior/map lamp control panel located between
the sun visors.
There are two map lamps, one for the driver
and one for the passenger. To turn on the map
lamp, push the button that is next to the lamp.
Push the buttons again to turn the map lamps
off.
59

Radio
For information about the radio in your vehicle,
refer to the Electronic Sound Systems chapter in
this Owner Guide.
Clock Controls on Electronic
Radios
The electronic radios have a built-in clock. For
complete operating instructions, refer to the
Electronic Sound Systems chapter in this Owner
Guide.
60

Ignition
Understanding the Positions of the Ignition
Ignition lock cylinder
LOCK locks the steering wheel. It also locks the
gearshift lever in P (Park) (automatic transaxle).
LOCK is the only position that allows you to
remove the key. The LOCK feature helps to
protect your vehicle from theft.
To remove the key if you have a manual
transaxle, push the key in while turning it to the
LOCK position.
If your key is stuck in the LOCK position and
will not turn, move your steering wheel left or
right until the key turns freely.
ACC (Accessory) allows some of your vehicle’s
electrical accessories to operate while the engine
is not running.
ON allows you to test your vehicle’s warning
lights (except the brake system warning light) to
make sure they work before you start the
engine. The key returns to the ON position once
the engine is started and remains in this position
while the engine runs.
61

START cranks the engine. Release the key once
the engine starts so that you do not damage the
starter. The key should return to ON when you
release it. The START position also allows you
to test the brake warning light.
The Turn Signal Lever
You can use the turn signal lever on the left side
of the steering column to:
qoperate the headlamps and parking lamps
qoperate the turn signals and cornering lamps
qturn the high beams on/off
qflash the lamps
Headlamps and Parking Lamps
To turn the parking lamps or headlamps on,
twist the knob at the end of the turn signal
lever.
FIRST STOP — Turning the knob to the first
stop (g) will turn on the the license plate
lamps, parking lamps, side marker lamps, tail
lamps and instrument panel lamps.
SECOND STOP — Turning the knob to the
second stop (B) will turn on the headlamps,
license plate lamps, parking lamps, side marker
lamps, tail lamps, and instrument panel lamps.
Headlamp control
62

Daytime Running Light System
(Canadian vehicles only)
In Canada, the lights illuminate during daytime
operation. The Daytime Running Light system
(DRL) automatically illuminates when the
ignition switch is turned to the ON position. The
daytime running lights are switched off under
the following conditions:
qwhen the headlamps are switched on
qwhen the parking brake is applied
qwhen the flash-to-pass system is used
63
WARNING
The Daytime Running Light (DRL) system
will not illuminate the tail lamps and
parking lamps. Turn on your headlamps
at dusk. Failure to do so may result in a
collision.
Raising the Headlamps Manually
If the power headlamp door system becomes
inoperative, your vehicle has a manual retractor
system that allows you to raise the headlamps
manually (the headlamps will not turn on). The
retractors are located under the hood and behind
each headlamp. Remove the cap and turn the
knob. Each headlamp must be raised separately.
Before using the manual retractors to raise your
headlamps, the RETRA fuse must be removed.

Open the main fuse panel. Refer to the
underhood fuse panel in Servicing Your Probe
later in this owner guide. Pull the RETRA (20A)
fuse straight out.
Inspect the removed fuse. If it is blown, replace
it with a new one of the same rating. If it isn’t
blown or if a new fuse does not solve the
problem, remove it and operate the headlamp
manually.
64
WARNING
Always remove the RETRA (20A) fuse
before manually operating a headlamp
retractor or attempting to remove anything
from the headlamp. Failure to remove the
RETRA fuse could cause injury to a hand
or fingers.
WARNING
When reinstalling the RETRA fuse, make
sure nothing is near the headlamp
retractor. It may move suddenly while the
fuse is being inserted, causing injury to
hands and fingers.

Manual headlamp retractors located behind the headlamps
High Beams and Flashing the Lamps
To turn on the high beams, turn the headlamp
control knob to the headlamp ON position and
push the turn signal lever away from you until
it latches. When the high beams are ON, the
high beam indicator light on the instrument
panel comes on.
To turn off the high beams, pull the lever
toward you until it latches. The high beam
indicator light turns off.
65

Flashing the Lights
To flash the headlamps, pull the lever toward
you for a moment and then release it. The
headlamps will flash whether the headlamp
knob is in the on or off position.
Highbeam and flash-to-pass operation
If the headlamps are retracted when you pull
the lever toward you, they will pop up and
flash.
66

Turn Signals
Move the lever up to signal a right turn. Move
it down to signal a left turn. The corresponding
indicator light in the instrument cluster will
flash.
If the turn signal stays on after you turn, move
the lever back to the center (OFF) position.
For lane changes, move the lever far enough to
signal but not to latch. The lever will return to
the off position when you release it.
67
Turn signal

Windshield Wipers and Washer
To operate the windshield wipers and washers,
make sure your ignition key is turned to the ON
position.
The windshield wipers have two speeds. To
operate the wipers, pull down the lever on the
right side of your steering column. The first
position is LO (Low) and the second position is
HI (High). To turn the wipers off, return the
lever to the uppermost position.
Windshield wiper control
ONE-TOUCH WIPER CONTROL (If equipped)
— For one wiping cycle, push the lever away
from you and release it with the lever in the
OFF or interval position. The ignition switch
must be in the ON position for this operation.
One touch wiper control
68

Interval Wipers (If equipped)
In addition to two speed wipers, your vehicle
may have wipers that you can set to operate at
varying intervals. For example, you can set the
interval so they wipe less often when it drizzles
and more often in heavier rain.
Variable interval wiper control
To set the interval wipers, pull the lever down
to the first position. Turn the ring on the lever
to the frequency of wiper operation you desire.
Windshield Washer
To clean the windshield, pull the wiper lever
toward you. Washer fluid sprays until the lever
is released.
69
Windshield washer/control

If the washer does not work, check the washer
fluid level visually and fill if needed. See
Servicing Your Probe later in this owner guide. If
there is fluid in the reservoir, and your washer
doesn’t work, consult your Ford or
Lincoln-Mercury dealer.
Do not try to clean the windshield when the
washer fluid container is empty or activate the
washers at any time for more than 15 seconds
continuously. This could damage the washer
pump system.
70
WARNING
Always warm up the windshield with the
defroster before you use the washer fluid.
In freezing weather, the washer solution
may freeze on the windshield and obscure
your vision.

71
Tilt Steering Column
(If equipped)
WARNING
Never adjust the steering wheel when the
vehicle is moving.
To change the position of the steering
column/wheel, pull the release lever on the
column toward you. Tip the steering wheel to
the desired position. Release the lever to lock the
steering wheel in place.
Tilt steering column

Speed Control (If equipped)
Speed control switches on the steering wheel
To Turn Speed Control Off
Press OFF, or
Turn off the vehicle ignition.
Once speed control is switched off, the
previously programmed set speed will be erased.
To Turn Speed Control On
Press ON
To Set a Speed
Press SET ACC. For speed control to operate,
the speed control must be ON and the vehicle
speed must be greater than 30 mph (48 km/h).
If you drive up or down a steep hill, your
vehicle speed may vary slower or faster than the
set speed. This is normal.
72

Speed control cannot reduce the vehicle speed if
it increases above the set speed on a downhill. If
your vehicle speed is faster than the set speed
while driving on a downhill in j (Overdrive),
you may want to shift to the next lower gear to
reduce your vehicle’s speed.
73
WARNING
To keep your vehicle under control, do
not use speed control in heavy traffic or
on roads that are winding, slippery, or
unpaved.
To Set a Higher Speed
Press and hold SET ACC. Release the switch
when the desired vehicle speed is reached, or
Press and release SET ACC. Each press will
increase the set speed by 1 mph (1.6 km/h)
(2.0L with automatic transmission only), or
Accelerate with your accelerator pedal, then
press SET ACC.
You may accelerate with the accelerator pedal at
any time during speed control usage. Releasing
the accelerator pedal will return your vehicle
speed to the previously programmed set speed.
To Set a Lower Set Speed
Press and hold CST. Release the switch when the
desired vehicle speed is reached, or
Press and release CST. Each press will decrease
the set speed by 1 mph (1.6 km/h) (2.0L with
automatic transmission only), or
Depress the brake pedal. When the desired
vehicle speed is reached, press SET ACC.

To Disengage Speed Control
Depress the brake pedal, or
Depress the clutch pedal (if equipped).
Disengaging the speed control will not erase the
previously programmed set speed.
To Return to a Set Speed
Press RSM. For RSM to operate, the vehicle
speed must be faster than 30 mph (48 km/h).
Moon Roof (If equipped)
The control switch for the sliding moon roof is
on the interior/map lamp control panel located
above the windshield and between the sun
visors. The ignition must be in the ON position
for the moon roof to be operational.
To open the sliding moon roof to the vent
position, push the recessed part of the moon
roof switch until the back of the moon roof tilts
into the vent position. You must release the
switch after opening the vent before pressing it
again to slide the moon roof open. To close,
push the other side of the switch until the moon
roof sets back into place.
74

Sliding moon roof control switch
Press the switch until the moon roof is opened
to the desired position. When you release the
switch, the moon roof will stop sliding open. To
close the moon roof, press the other side of the
switch and hold it until the roof is closed to the
desired position.
75

Doors
The inside of the door
If you close the door with the lock button
depressed, the door will remain locked.
Power Door Locks (If equipped)
If your vehicle has power door locks, the
controls to lock the doors are below the inside
door handles on each door. When you close the
doors after you set the door locks, the doors
remain locked. If the power mechanism ever
fails, the manual door locks will override the
power controls.
NOTE: Vehicles equipped with power locks
76
have a safety feature which allows you
to unlock one or both front doors from
either door key lock cylinder. To
unlock the driver’s or passenger door
only, insert the key in the door lock
cylinder and turn to the left
(counterclockwise) to the first position.
To unlock the other door at the same
time, simply continue turning the key
to the left to the second position. Both
doors are locked by turning the key to
the right (clockwise).

Power locks on the driver’s door
Windows
Using the Power Windows (If equipped)
Each door has a power control that opens and
closes the window on that door. The driver’s
door has a master control panel that operates
both windows.
To use your power windows, your ignition
switch must be placed in the ON position. Press
the recessed end of the power window switch to
lower a window, press the raised end of the
switch to raise a window.
NOTE: Your vehicle is equipped with a “one
touch down” feature. This feature
allows the driver to fully open the
driver’s window by firmly pressing the
switch and then releasing. The switch
will release when the window has
fully opened.
77

78
WARNING
Do not let children play with the power
windows.
Master window control on the driver’s door
Mirrors
WARNING
The right side view mirror makes objects
appear smaller and farther away than they
actually are.

79
Dual-Electric Remote Control Mirrors
(If equipped)
Dual-electric remote control mirrors are
collapsible. The mirror heads can be folded
rearward to prevent damage when using an
automatic car wash.
To adjust the side mirrors:
1. Locate the control switch in the power
control panel on the driver’s door.
2. Select the right or left mirror by moving the
selector switch right or left.
3. Push the control switch in the direction you
want to move the mirror.
4. Return the selector switch to the middle OFF
position to keep the mirror in place.
Dual-electric side mirror control switches

Console
A fully-equipped console on your vehicle will
include the following items:
qashtray and lighter
qparking brake lever
qcupholder or storage compartment with
cupholder
Storage Compartments
Your vehicle may have several small storage
compartments:
qa glove compartment that locks and unlocks
using the ignition key
qtwo map pockets on the door panels (if
equipped)
qstorage compartment below the climate
controls
qa storage bin in the center console
80
WARNING
Do not put objects on the ledge between
the back seat and the rear window, as
they can become dangerous projectiles and
injure someone.

Center Console Storage (If equipped)
To open the center console storage bin, push the
button and slide the lid back. When it is back as
far as it will go, push the button and lift the lid.
Cupholders
The cupholders are located inside the center
console storage bin. The driver cupholder is
integrated in the storage bin. To use the
passenger cupholder, rotate it upward then twist
the cupholder until it is in a horizontal position.
When the passenger cupholder is not in use,
twist it back to the vertical position and rotate it
into the storage bin.
NOTE: Do not place heavy objects in the
81
cupholders.
Using the cupholders

Hatchback
Opening and Closing the Hatchback
To open the hatchback from the outside:
1. Put the key into the lock located on the right
82
side, in the tail lamp just above the bumper.
2. Turn the key to the right to unlock.
3. Remove the key before you close the
hatchback.
NOTE: When the hatch is unlocked the cargo
lamp will illuminate.
4. Using both hands, shut the hatchback
completely. Do not slam it.
5. Pull up on the hatchback to make sure it is
securely latched.
To prevent premature wear or damage to the
hatchback lift cylinders and attaching hardware,
the hatchback must be fully closed before you
drive your vehicle.
WARNING
If you drive with the hatchback lid open,
you will draw dangerous exhaust fumes
into your vehicle.
If you must drive like this, keep the vents open
so outside air comes into the vehicle.

Using the Remote Control for the
Hatchback
To release the hatchback from inside the vehicle,
simply pull up on the remote release lever,
which is located in front of the driver’s seat,
near the door.
Remote control for the hatchback
Using the Luggage Compartment Cover
This cover lets you conceal cargo in the luggage
compartment. The cover will lift automatically
when the hatchback lid is opened.
83
WARNING
Do not put objects on the ledge between
the back seat and the rear window, as
they can become dangerous projectiles and
injure someone.

To remove the luggage compartment cover:
1. Raise the hatchback to the fully open
84
position.
2. Standing outside the vehicle, unfasten the lift
cords from the hatchback lid.
3. Disconnect the two front package tray lift
cords from the lower trunk side trim.
4. Lower the cover and slide it rearward to
disengage it from the sockets and remove it.
The luggage compartment and cover

85
WARNING
The cover may cause injury in a sudden
stop or accident if it is not securely
installed.
To install the luggage compartment cover:
1. Raise the hatchback to the fully open
position.
2. From outside the vehicle, position the cover
in its sockets.
3. Attach the lift cords to the hatchback lid.
4. Connect the two front luggage compartment
cover lift cords to the lower trunk side trim.
5. Close the hatchback.
WARNING
Do not push down on the luggage
compartment cover when the lift cords are
attached to the open hatchback lid. This
could cause the hatchback lid to close
unexpectedly.
Remote Keyless Entry System
(If equipped)
Your vehicle may be equipped with a remote
keyless entry system. This option will allow you
to open your vehicle using a remote transmitter
from distances of up to 33 feet (10 meters) away.
The remote feature will operate only when the
ignition is in the OFF position.
The transmitter can unlock the driver’s door,
unlock all doors, lock all doors, or activate the
vehicle’s horn and hazard warning lamps for the
panic alarm feature.

By pressing the UNLOCK button on the
transmitter once, you can unlock the driver side
door. Pressing the UNLOCK button a second
time within five seconds of unlocking the
driver’s door will unlock the other doors.
You can lock all your vehicle doors by pressing
the LOCK button. If you press the LOCK button
a second time within five (5) seconds, the horn
will sound briefly to verify that the doors have
been locked.
When the PANIC button is pressed, the horn
will sound and the hazard warning lamps will
flash. This will continue for up to approximately
two minutes and 45 seconds unless it is turned
off by pressing the PANIC button a second time.
The panic mode can also be cancelled by turning
the ignition key to ON or ACC.
Up to four transmitters can be programmed for
your vehicle. Your vehicle comes with two
transmitters. Additional transmitters can be
ordered from your dealer.
Remote keyless entry transmitter
86

The remote keyless entry system is equipped
with an illuminated entry system.
When the system is activated, the dome lamp
will illuminate and will stay lit for
approximately 25 seconds. The dome lamp will
shut off when the doors are closed.
Replacing the Batteries
The remote entry transmitter is powered by two
coin type three-volt lithium 1616
batteries (included) that should last for several
years of normal use. If you notice a significant
decrease in operating range, the batteries should
be replaced. Replacement batteries can be
purchased at most pharmacies, watch stores or
at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer.
NOTE: The operating range of the remote
entry system can also be affected by
weather conditions (such as very cold
temperatures) or structures around the
vehicle (buildings, other vehicles, radio
and TV towers, etc.). Typical operating
range will allow you to be up to 33
feet (10 meters) away from your
vehicle.
87
Opening the remote transmitter

The transmitter can be snapped apart to replace
the batteries by twisting a thin coin between the
two halves of the transmitter. DO NOT TAKE
THE FRONT PART OF THE TRANSMITTER
APART. Carefully remove the old batteries.
When installing the new batteries, be sure to
place the positive (+) side down as marked.
Snap the two halves back together.
Replacement/additional transmitters
In the event a transmitter is lost, return the
remaining transmitter(s) to your dealer for
reprogramming of your remote entry system.
This is necessary to prevent unauthorized use of
the lost transmitter.
Additional transmitters may be purchased from
your dealer (remote entry system will work with
up to four transmitters). Follow the same
programming procedure as above.
All transmitters must be programmed (or
reprogrammed) at the same time. If the
programming mode is entered and the
transmitters are not programmed (or
reprogrammed) at the same time, they will not
operate with the system.
88

89
Seating and Safety
Restraints
Seats
RWARNING
Never adjust the driver’s seat or seatback
when the vehicle is moving.
RWARNING
Always drive and ride with your seatback
upright and the lap belt snug and low
across the hips.
RWARNING
Children should always ride with the
seatback in the fully upright position.
Head Restraints
Head restraints help protect your head and neck
in a collision. The head restraints on your
vehicle are not adjustable.
Manual Seat Adjustments
You can move the front seats forward or
backward or tilt the back of the seat forward or
backward. The driver’s seat also has controls for
lumbar support (if equipped) and side bolster
support (if equipped).

91
To move the seat forward or backward:
Manual seat controls for front seats

To gain access to the rear seat on the driver’s or
passenger’s side:
93
Seatback release lever for rear seat access
The seatback will return to its set reclined
position when pushed back.
RWARNING
Check to see that the seat and seatback
are latched securely in position. Keep
floor area free of objects that would
prevent proper seat engagement. Never
attempt to adjust the seat while the
vehicle is in motion.

To inflate the driver’s seatback lumbar
support (if equipped) for lower back support, or
to inflate the driver’s seatback side bolster
supports (if equipped):
94

95
Six-Way Power Seat Adjustment
(if equipped)
The six-way power seat control lever is located
on the outermost side of the driver’s seat.

Your seat cushion power adjust lever is operated
by a motor. To avoid damage to the motor, you
should avoid operating this feature for an
extended period of time. You should also avoid
using the six-way power adjust lever
continuously with the engine stopped. This
could run down the battery.
Use the lever to make only one adjustment at a
time.
Using the Split-Folding Rear Seat
Your vehicle is equipped with split-folding rear
seats. One or both rear seatbacks can be folded
down to provide additional cargo space.
NOTE: When folding down the rear seatback,
96
the seat belt tongue should be hanging
on the hook of the lower, side trim
panel, near the edge of the side of the
seat cushion.

97
To lower the rear seatback:
To raise the seatback, lift the seatback rearward
until it latches. Make sure the seatback is locked
in position by pushing it forward and backward.
RWARNING
Check to see that the seat and seatback
are latched securely in position. Keep
floor area free of objects that would
prevent proper seat engagement. Never
attempt to adjust the seat while the
vehicle is in motion.

98
RWARNING
Cargo should always be secured to
prevent it from shifting and causing
damage to the vehicle or harm to
passengers.
RWARNING
Do not remove the floor carpet in your
vehicle. Emission controls cause high
exhaust temperatures under the floor.
NOTE: When returning the folding seats to the
upright position, remember to return
rear shoulder belts to their proper
position.
NOTE: Your vehicle has stowage hooks on the
lower rear side trim panel on which to
hook the safety belts when not in use.
Simply hook the tongue slot over the
stowage hook.
Important Safety Belt Information
The use of safety belts helps to restrain you and
your passengers in case of a collision. In most
states and in Canada, the law requires their use.
Safety belts provide best restraint when:
qthe seatback is upright
qthe occupant is sitting upright (not slouched)
qthe lap belt is snug and low on the hips
qthe shoulder belt is snug against the chest
qthe knees are straight forward

To help you remember to fasten your safety belt,
a warning light may come on and a chime may
sound. See Safety Belt Warning Light/Chime in the
Instrumentation chapter.
See the following sections in this chapter for
directions on how to properly use these safety
belts. Also see Safety Restraints for Children in this
chapter for special instructions about using
safety belts for children.
99
RWARNING
Always drive and ride with your seatback
upright and the lap belt snug and low
across the hips.
RWARNING
Each seating position in your vehicle has a
specific safety belt assembly which is
made up of one buckle and one tongue
that are designed to be used as a pair. 1)
Use the shoulder belt on the outside
shoulder only. Never wear the shoulder
belt under the arm. 2) Never swing it
around your neck over the inside
shoulder. 3) Never use a single belt for
more than one person.
RWARNING
Ford recommends that all safety belt
assemblies and attaching hardware should
be inspected by a qualified technician
after any collision. Safety belt assemblies
not in use during a collision should also
be inspected and replaced if either
damage or improper operation is noted.

100
RWARNING
Children should always ride with the
seatback in the fully upright position.
RWARNING
Never let a passenger hold a child on his
or her lap while the vehicle is moving.
The passenger cannot protect the child
from injury in a collision.
RWARNING
Lock the doors of your vehicle before
driving to lessen the risk of the door
coming open in a collision.
Combination Lap and Shoulder
Belts
While your vehicle is in motion, the combination
lap and shoulder belt adjusts to your movement.
However, if you brake hard, turn hard, or if
your vehicle receives an impact of 5 mph
(8 km/h) or more, the lap/shoulder belt locks
and helps reduce your forward movement.
After you get into your vehicle, close the door
and lock it. Then adjust the driver or passenger
seat to the position that suits you best.
Pull the combination lap/shoulder belt from the
retractor so that the shoulder portion of the belt
crosses your shoulder and chest. Be sure the belt
is not twisted. If it is, remove the twist. Insert
the belt tongue into the proper buckle until you
hear a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the
tongue is securely fastened to the buckle by
pulling on tongue.

Fastening the front seat combination lap and shoulder belt
NOTE: Be sure to read and understand
101
Important Safety Belt Information in
this chapter.
Unfastening the combination lap and shoulder belt — front
and rear seating positions
While the belt retracts, guide the tongue to its
original position to prevent it from striking you
or the vehicle.

Lap/Shoulder Belt Retractors
(Dual Locking Modes)
Your vehicle is equipped with a dual locking
mode retractor on the shoulder belt portion of
the combination lap/shoulder safety belt for
passengers.
Dual locking mode retractors operate in two
ways:
Vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking mode
In this operating mode, the shoulder belt
retractor will allow the occupant freedom of
movement, locking tight only on hard braking,
hard cornering or impacts of approximately
5 mph (8 km/h) or more. The retractor can also
be made to lock by pulling the belt out quickly.
Automatic locking mode
In this operating mode, the shoulder belt
retractor will be automatically locked and will
remain locked when the combination
lap/shoulder safety belt is buckled, and does not
allow the occupant freedom of movement. This
mode provides the following:
qA tight lap/shoulder belt on the occupant.
qChild safety seat installation.
102
RWARNING
Rear-facing child seats or infant carriers
should never be placed in the front seats.

This mode must be used when installing a child
seat. To switch the retractor from the emergency
locking mode to the automatic locking mode,
perform the following steps:
1. Buckle the lap/shoulder combination belt.
2. Pull on the belt until all of the stored belt is
103
out of the retractor and a click is heard.
3. A clicking sound will continue to be heard
as the belt is allowed to retract. This
indicates that the retractor is in the
automatic locking mode.
NOTE: When the combination lap/shoulder
belt is unbuckled and allowed to
retract completely, the retractor will
switch to the vehicle sensitive
(emergency) locking mode. See the
detailed instructions under Safety Seats
for Children in this chapter.
Safety Belt Extension Assembly
A safety belt that is too short even when fully
extended can be lengthened. You can add about
eight inches (20 cm) to the belt length with a
safety belt extension assembly. Safety belt
extensions are available at no cost from your
dealer.
Use only extensions manufactured by the same
supplier as the safety belt. Manufacturer
identification is located at the end of the
webbing on the label. Also, use the safety belt
extension only if the safety belt is too short for
you when fully extended. Do not use extension
to change the fit of the shoulder belt across the
torso.

104
RWARNING
Failure to follow these instructions will
affect the performance of the safety belts
and increase the risk of personal injury.
Safety Belt Maintenance
Check the safety belt systems periodically to
make sure that they work properly and are not
damaged.
All safety belt assemblies, including retractors,
buckles, front seat belt buckle support assemblies
(slide bar) (if equipped), shoulder belt height
adjusters (if equipped), child safety seat tether
bracket assemblies (if equipped), and attaching
hardware, should be inspected after any
collision. Ford recommends that all safety belt
assemblies used in vehicles involved in a
collision be replaced. However, if the collision
was minor and a qualified technician finds that
the belts do not show damage and continue to
operate properly, they do not need to be
replaced. Safety belt assemblies not in use
during a collision should also be inspected and
replaced if either damage or improper operation
is noted.
Air Bag Supplemental Restraint
System (SRS)
Important Air Bag Precautions
Your vehicle is equipped with a supplemental
restraint system designed to work with the
safety belts to help protect you and your right
front seat passenger in the event of a collision.
The Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System is
primarily designed to reduce certain upper body
injuries.

105
RWARNING
All occupants of the vehicle, including the
driver, should always wear their safety
belts, failure to do so may increase the
risk of personal injury in the event of a
collision.
RWARNING
Do not place objects or mount equipment
on or near the air bag covers that may
come into contact with an inflating air
bag. Failure to follow these instructions
may increase the risk of personal injury in
the event of a collision.
RWARNING
Do not attempt to service, repair, or
modify the air bag Supplemental Restraint
System or its fuses. See your Ford or
Lincoln-Mercury dealer.
RWARNING
If you are close to an inflating air bag, it
could seriously injure you. Position your
seat such that it is as far back from the
steering wheel as possible but still allows
you to properly control the vehicle.

Children and Air Bags
NOTE: For additional important safety
106
information on the proper use of seat
belts, child seats, and infant seats,
please read the entire Safety Restraints
chapter in this owner guide.
RWARNING
Children should always wear their safety
belts. Failure to follow these instructions
may increase the risk of personal injury in
the event of a collision.
RWARNING
How Does the Air Bag Supplemental
Restraint System Work?
The Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System is
designed to activate when the vehicle is in a
collision similar to hitting a fixed barrier head
on at 8-14 mph. The fact that the air bags did
not inflate in a collision does not mean that
something is wrong with the system. Rather, it
means the forces were not of the type sufficient
to cause activation.

If the vehicle is in a moderate or severe frontal
collision, the system is activated and the air bags
inflate rapidly. After the air bag inflates, it will
quickly deflate. After the air bag deployment,
you may notice a smoke-like, powdery residue
or smell the burnt propellant. This is normal.
The residue may consist of cornstarch or talcum
powder (which is used to lubricate the air bag)
or sodium compounds, such as sodium
carbonates (e.g. baking soda) that result from the
combustion process that inflates the air bag.
Small amounts of sodium hydroxide may be
present which may irritate the skin and eyes, but
none of the residue is toxic. The Air Bag
Supplemental Restraint System will reduce, but
not eliminate all injuries in an accident.
107

108
RWARNING
Several air bag system components get hot
after inflation. Do not try to touch them
after inflation.
RWARNING
The air bag will inflate only once. The
system is designed to function on a
one-time-only basis. If the air bag is
inflated, THE AIR BAG WILL NOT
FUNCTION AGAIN AND MUST BE
REPLACED IMMEDIATELY. If the air
bag is not replaced, this will increase the
risk of injury in a subsequent collision.
The Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System
consists of:
qdriver and passenger air bag modules (which
include the inflators and air bags),
qone or more impact and safing sensors,
qa system diagnostic module,
qa readiness light and tone,
qand the electrical wiring which connects the
components.
The diagnostic module monitors its own circuits,
the air bag electrical system, the air bag
readiness light, the air bag power and the air
bag inflators.

109
Inflated driver-side air bag
Inflated passenger-side air bag

Determining if System Is Operational
The Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System uses
a readiness light and a tone to indicate the
condition of the system. The readiness light is in
the instrument cluster. When you turn the
ignition key to ON, this light will illuminate for
approximately six (6) seconds and then turn off.
This indicates that the system is operating
normally. NOTE: Routine maintenance of the air
bag system is not required.
A problem with the system is indicated by one
or more of the following:
qthe readiness light will either flash or stay lit,
qthe readiness light will not light immediately
after ignition is turned on,
qa group of five beeps will be heard. The tone
pattern will repeat periodically until the
problem and light are repaired.
If any of these things happen, even
intermittently, have the Air Bag Supplemental
Restraint System serviced at your Ford or
Lincoln-Mercury dealer immediately. Unless
serviced, the system may not function properly
in the event of a collision.
Disposal of Air Bags and Air Bag
Equipped Vehicles
For disposal of air bags or air bag equipped
vehicles, see your local Ford or Lincoln-Mercury
dealer. Air bags MUST BE disposed of by
qualified personnel.
110

Safety Restraints for Children
In the U.S. and Canada, you are required by law
to use safety restraints for children. If small
children ride in your vehicle — this generally
includes children who are four years old or
younger and who weigh 40 pounds (18 kg) or
less — you must put them in safety seats that
are made specially for children. Safety belts
alone do not provide maximum protection for
these children. Check your local and state laws
for specific requirements.
111
RWARNING
Never let a passenger hold a child on his
or her lap while the vehicle is moving.
The passenger cannot protect the child
from injury in a collision.
RWARNING
To prevent the risk of injury, make sure
children sit where they can be properly
restrained.
RWARNING
It is extremely dangerous to ride in a
cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle.
In a collision, people riding in these areas
are more likely to be seriously injured or
killed. Do not allow people to ride in any
area of your vehicle that is not equipped
with seats and safety belts. Be sure
everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and
using a safety belt properly.

When possible, put children in the rear seat of
your vehicle. Accident statistics suggest that
children are safer when properly restrained in
the rear seating positions than in the front
seating positions.
112
RWARNING
Failure to follow all instructions on the
proper use of child seats or the vehicle
restraint systems can result in serious
injury or death in the event of a sudden
stop or collision.
RWARNING
Carefully follow all of the manufacturer’s
instructions included with the safety seat
you put in your vehicle. If you do not
install and use the safety seat properly,
the child may be injured in a sudden stop
or collision.
RWARNING
Safety belts and seats can become hot in a
vehicle that has been closed up in sunny
weather; they could burn a small child.
Check seat covers and buckles before you
place a child anywhere near them.
RWARNING
Do not leave children, unreliable adults,
or pets unattended in your vehicle.

Safety Seats for Children
Use a safety belt that is recommended for the
size and weight of the child. Always follow the
safety seat manufacturer’s instructions when
installing and using the safety seat.
Ford recommends the use of a child safety seat
having a top tether strap. Install the child safety
seat in a seating position which is capable of
providing a tether anchorage. For more
information on top tether straps see Attaching
Safety Seats With Tether Straps in this chapter.
When installing a child safety seat, be sure to
use the correct safety belt buckle for that seating
position, and make sure the tongue is securely
fastened in the buckle. For a shoulder/lap belt
combination with a sliding tongue, make sure
the retractor is in the automatic locking mode.
113
RWARNING
When using forward-facing child seats
move the passenger seat as far back from
the instrument panel as possible. Never
secure rear-facing child seats or infant
carriers in the front seat.
The force of the rapidly inflating passenger air
bag could push the top of the rear-facing seat
against the vehicle seatback, armrests or console.
Rear-facing infant seats must always be secured
in the rear seat.
All child restraint systems are designed to be
secured in vehicle seats by lap belts or by the
lap portion of a lap-shoulder belt.

114
RWARNING
If you do not properly secure the safety
seat, the child occupying the seat may be
injured during a collision or sudden stop.
An unsecured safety seat could also injure
other passengers.
RWARNING
or collision.
Installing Child Safety Seats
Your vehicle is equipped with a dual locking
mode retractor on the shoulder belt portion of
the front passenger seat and both rear seats. The
automatic locking mode must be used when
installing a child seat or infant carrier in the
front passenger seat or rear seats.
RWARNING

If you choose to install a child safety seat in the
front seat, move the seat as far back as possible.
1. Position the child seat or infant carrier on
115
the passenger seat of the vehicle.
2. Pull down on the shoulder belt, then grasp
the shoulder belt and lap belt together.
Grasping lap and shoulder belt together

3. While holding the shoulder and lap belt
116
portions together, route the tongue through
the child seat according to the child seat
manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure the belt
webbing is not twisted.
Routing safety belt through child seat or infant carrier

4. Grasp the shoulder portion of the belt and
118
pull downward until all of the belt is
extracted and a click is heard. At this time,
the retractor is in the automatic locking
mode (child seat restraint mode).
Setting the retractor to automatic locking mode

119
5. Allow the belt to retract. Pull up on the
shoulder webbing. A clicking sound will be
heard as the belt retracts. This indicates that
the retractor is in the automatic locking
mode. Push down on the child seat while
you pull up on the belt webbbing to remove
any slack in the belt.
Removing slack from belt

6. Before placing the child in the child seat or
120
infant carrier, forcibly tilt the seat from side
to side, and tug it forward to make sure that
the seat is securely held in place.
Checking that the seat is secure

121
7. Double check that the retractor is in the
automatic locking mode. Try to pull more
belt out of the retractor. If you cannot, the
belt is in the automatic locking mode.
Checking the retractor
8. Check to make sure that the child seat or
infant carrier is properly secured prior to
each use. If the belt is not locked, repeat
steps 4 through 7.
NOTE: To remove the retractor from automatic
lock mode, allow seat belt retract fully
to its stowed position and the retractor
will automatically switch back to the
vehicle sensitive locking mode for
normal adult usage.

122
RWARNING
or collision.
Attaching Safety Seats With Tether Straps
Some manufacturers make safety seats that
include a tether strap that goes over the back of
the vehicle seat and attaches to an anchoring
point. Other manufacturers offer the tether strap
as an accessory. Contact the manufacturer of
your child safety seat for information about
ordering a tether strap.
Front Seats
To install a tether from a child safety seat in the
front seat:
1. Buckle the lap/shoulder belt (in the seat
directly behind the front passenger seat in
which the child safety seat will be installed).
2. Pull all the stored belt out of the rear seat
retractor to switch the retractor to automatic
locking mode.
3. Let the retractor wind up the slack from the
lap/shoulder belt. A clicking sound should
be heard as the belt retracts, indicating that
the retractor is in automatic locking mode.
4. Install the child safety seat in the front seat.
Refer to the previous section on Installing
Safety Seats. Hook the tether strap hook
around the webbing near the center of the
shoulder portion of the locked lap/shoulder
belt.
5. Tighten the tether strap.

Rear Seats
If you use a tethered safety seat on one of the
rear seats, install a tether anchor bracket to one
of the two 0.3 inch (8 mm) weld nuts on the
rear of the cargo area below the opening for the
liftgate.
Tether Anchorage Hardware
Tether anchor hardware kits can be obtained at
no charge from any Ford or Lincoln-Mercury
dealer.
Be sure to follow the child safety seat
manufacturer’s instructions.
123
RWARNING
Tighten the anchor according to
specifications. Otherwise, the safety seat
may not be properly secured and the child
may be injured in a sudden stop or
collision.
Installing the Anchor Bracket
1. Open the liftgate and take out the luggage
compartment cover (if equipped).
2. The anchorage nuts used to secure the tether
anchor are located in the rear body panel
behind the trim at the rear of the luggage
compartment. Remove the trim panel. The
backside of the panel is scored at the
locations of the anchorage nuts. Make a hole
the size of the scoring in the trim panel to
provide access to the anchor nut. The hole
should be made on the same side of the
vehicle as the child safety seat will be
located. Reinstall the trim panel.

3. Install the hardware for anchoring the tether
124
following the instructions in the tether
anchorage hardware kit.
4. Re-install luggage compartment cover.
Installing the anchor bracket

125
Starting
Fuel-Injected Engines
When starting a fuel-injected engine, the most
important thing to remember is to avoid
pressing down on the accelerator before or
during starting. Only use the accelerator when
you have problems getting your vehicle started.
See Starting Your Engine in this chapter for
details about when to use the accelerator while
you start your vehicle.
Starting Your Vehicle
Preparing to Start Your Vehicle
RWARNING
Do not start your vehicle in a closed
garage or in other enclosed areas. Exhaust
fumes can be toxic. Always open the
garage door before you start the engine.
Before you start your vehicle, do the following:
1. Make sure all occupants in the vehicle
buckle their safety belts. See Safety Restraints
in the Index for more details.
2. Make sure the headlamps and other
accessories are turned off when starting.

3. If you have an automatic transaxle, make
126
sure that the gearshift is in P (Park) and the
parking brake is set before you turn the key.
If you have a manual transaxle, make sure
that the parking brake is fully set, push the
clutch pedal to the floor, and put the
gearshift into Neutral before you turn the
key. (Remember, the starter will operate
only if the clutch pedal is pushed all the
way to the floor.)
Testing the Warning Lights
Before you start your vehicle, you should test
the warning lights on the instrument panel to
make sure that they work. Refer to the
Instrumentation chapter.
Starting Your Engine
To start your engine:
1. Follow the steps under Preparing to Start
Your Vehicle at the beginning of this section.
2. Keep your foot on the brake pedal and turn
the ignition key to the ON position.
3. DO NOT depress the accelerator pedal when
starting your engine. DO NOT use the
accelerator while the vehicle is parked.
4. Turn the key to the START position
(cranking) until the engine starts. Allow the
key to return to the ON position after the
engine has started.
If you have difficulty in turning the key,
rotate the steering wheel slightly because it
may be binding.

127
For a cold engine:
qAt temperatures 10°F (-12°C) and below: If
the engine does not start in fifteen (15)
seconds on the first try, turn the key to OFF,
wait approximately ten (10) seconds so you
do not flood the engine, then try again.
qAt temperatures above 10°F (-12°C): If the
engine does not start in five (5) seconds on
the first try, turn the key to OFF, wait
approximately ten (10) seconds so you do not
flood the engine, then try again.
For a warm engine:
qDo not hold the key in the START position
for more than five (5) seconds at a time. If
the engine does not start within five (5)
seconds on the first try, turn the key to the
OFF position. Wait a few seconds after the
starter stops, then try again.
Whenever you start your vehicle, release the key
as soon as the engine starts. Excessive cranking
could damage the starter.
After you start the engine, let it idle for a few
seconds. Keep your foot on the brake pedal and
put the gearshift lever in gear. Release the
parking brake. Slowly release the brake pedal
and drive away in the normal manner.
NOTE: Automatic transaxle equipped vehicles
have an interlock that prevents you
from shifting out of P (Park) unless
your foot is on the brake pedal.

If the engine does not start after two attempts:
1. Turn the ignition key to the OFF position.
2. Press the accelerator all the way to the floor
128
and 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
engine speeds up.
If the engine still does not start, the fuel pump
shut-off switch may have been activated. For
directions on how to reset the switch see Fuel
Pump Shut-Off Switch in the index.
A computer system controls the engine’s idle
speed. When you start your vehicle, the engine’s
idle speed normally runs high. These faster
engine speeds will make your vehicle coast
slightly faster than its normal idle speed. It
should, however, slow down after a short time.
If it does not, have the idle speed checked.
If the engine idle speed does not slow down
automatically, do not allow your vehicle to idle
for more than 10 minutes. Have the vehicle
checked.
RWARNING
Extended idling at high engine speeds can
produce very high temperatures in the
engine and exhaust system, creating the
risk of fire or other damage.

129
RWARNING
Do not park, idle, or drive your vehicle in
dry grass or other dry ground cover. The
emission system heats up the engine
compartment and exhaust system, which
can start a fire.
Engine Block Heater (If equipped)
Engine block heaters are strongly recommended
if you live in a region where temperatures reach
-10°F (-23°C) or below. An engine block heater
warms the engine coolant, which improves
starting, warms up the engine faster, and allows
the heater-defrost system to respond quickly.
To turn the heater on, simply plug it into a
grounded 110-volt outlet. Ford recommends that
you use a 110-volt circuit that is protected by a
ground fault circuit interrupter.
RWARNING
To prevent electrical shock, do not use
your heater with ungrounded electrical
systems or two-pronged (cheater) adapters.
For best results, plug the heater in at least three
hours before you start your vehicle. Using the
heater for longer than three hours will not
damage the engine, so you can plug it in at
night to start your vehicle the following
morning.

If the Engine Cranks but Does
Not Start or Does Not Start After
a Collision
The Fuel Pump Shut-off Switch
If the engine cranks but does not start or does
not start even after a small collision, the fuel
pump shut-off switch may have been activated.
The shut-off switch is a device intended to stop
the fuel pump when your vehicle has been
involved in a substantial jolt. Refer to Roadside
Emergencies for more information.
Guarding Against Exhaust Fumes
Carbon monoxide, although colorless and
odorless, is present in exhaust fumes. Take
precautions to avoid its dangerous effects.
130
RWARNING
Do not start your vehicle in a closed
garage or in other enclosed areas. Exhaust
fumes can be toxic. Always open the
garage door before you start the engine.
RWARNING
If you smell exhaust fumes inside your
vehicle, have your dealer inspect your
vehicle immediately. Do not drive if you
smell exhaust fumes.

Have the exhaust and body ventilation systems
checked whenever:
qyour vehicle is raised for service
qthe sound of the exhaust system changes
qyour vehicle has been damaged in a collision
Improve your ventilation by keeping all air inlet
vents clear of snow, leaves, and other debris.
If the engine is idling while you are stopped in
an open area for long periods of time, open the
windows at least one inch (2.5 cm). Also, adjust
the heating or air conditioning system to bring
in outside air.
qIf you are using the heater, set the fan speed
on MEDIUM or HIGH with the function
selector control on VENT.
qIf you want to use the air conditioner, set the
function selector control in the NORM A/C
position which brings in fresh air.
131

Removing the Key From the
Ignition
1. Put the gearshift selector lever in P (Park)
132
(automatic transaxle) or 1 (First) (manual
transaxle).
2. Set the parking brake fully.
3. For a manual transaxle: Push in on the lock
cylinder and turn the key from ACC to
LOCK.
For an automatic transaxle: Turn the key to
LOCK.
4. Remove the key.
If the driver or passenger door is open while the
key is still in the ignition, a warning chime
sounds.
RWARNING
Always set the parking brake fully and
make sure that the gearshift is securely
latched in P (Park) (automatic transaxle) or
in 1 (First) (manual transaxle).
RWARNING
Do not leave children, unreliable adults,
or pets unattended in your vehicle.

133
Driving
Brakes
Applying the Brakes
Your vehicle may have four-wheel power
anti-lock disc brakes which adjust automatically
through everyday use.
Some models have power front disc brakes and
rear drum brakes which automatically adjust as
the brake pads and linings wear down.
If your vehicle does not have anti-lock brakes,
apply the brake pedal gradually. Use the
“squeeze” technique — push on the brake pedal
with a steadily increasing force. This allows the
wheels to continue to roll while you are slowing
down, which lets you steer properly.
If your vehicle does not have anti-lock brakes,
extreme braking can make the wheels lock and
slide, causing you to lose control of the steering.
If the wheels lock, release the brake pedal and
repeat the “squeeze” technique.
Do not drive with your foot resting on the brake
pedal; you will wear out the linings and increase
your vehicle’s stopping distance. Brake rotor
damage may also eventually occur.
NOTE: If you are driving down a long or
steep hill, shift to a lower gear and do
not apply your brakes continuously. If
you apply your brakes continuously,
they may overheat and become less
effective.

Occasional brake noise is normal and often does
not indicate a performance concern with the
vehicle’s brake system. In normal operation,
automotive brake systems may emit occasional
or intermittent squeal or groan noises when the
brakes are applied. Such noises are usually
heard during the first few brake applications in
the morning; however they may be heard at any
time while braking and can be aggravated by
environmental conditions such as cold, heat,
moisture, road dust, salt or mud. If a
"metal-to-metal" or "continuous grinding" sound
is present while braking, the brake linings may
be worn-out and should be inspected by a
qualified service technician.
Anti-lock Brake System (If equipped)
If your vehicle is equipped with the anti-lock
brake system (ABS), the wheels will not lock and
slide when you press down hard on the brake
pedal. The ABS automatically starts releasing
and reapplying the front brakes independently
and the rear brakes together whenever your
vehicle’s wheels start to lock. When this
happens, you will feel the brake pedal pulsate.
This is an indication that the ABS is working
correctly and is normal.
If the brake pedal is applied while the vehicle is
driven over uneven road surfaces, the ABS may
cycle and the driver may sense a pulsation in
the brake pedal, accompanied by a slight up and
down movement of the pedal height and a
clicking sound. This may also happen when
driving on an inclined surface such as a
driveway while making a sharp turn. This is a
normal condition.
Each time you turn the ignition key to the ON
position, the ABS will function through one test
cycle. When this happens, the ABS light will
illuminate for up to five seconds. If the light
illuminates longer than five seconds, shut off the
134

engine and restart. If it remains illuminated, it
means the ABS is disabled and should be
serviced immediately to restore the benefits of
the anti-lock feature. Normal braking is not
affected unless the red BRAKE system warning
light is also illuminated.
ABS has self-check capabilities. As described
above, the system turns on the ABS light each
time you start your engine. After the engine is
started and the ABS light turns off, the system
performs another test the first time the vehicle
reaches 4-9 mph (6-15 km/h). The system turns
on the ABS pump motor for approximately 1/2
second. At this time, a mechanical noise may be
heard. This is a normal part of the self-check
feature. If a malfunction is found during this
check the ABS light will come on.
On vehicles equipped with an antilock braking
system (ABS), a noise from the hydraulic pump
motor and pulsation in the pedal may be
observed during ABS braking events. Pedal
pulsation coupled with noise while braking
under panic conditions or on loose gravel, wet
or snowy roads is normal and indicated proper
functioning of the vehicle’s antilock brake
system. If the vehicle has continuous vibration or
shudder while braking, mainly in the steering
wheel, the vehicle most likely needs service.
Ford Motor Company has not found any
detrimental effects of popular mobile radio
transmitting equipment installed on vehicles
equipped with the Anti-lock Brake System if
normal radio installation practices are rigidly
followed. However, if after installing mobile
radio transmitting equipment, the Anti-lock
Brake System light comes on at any time other
than immediately after turning the key to the
135

ON position, or during a sudden stop, have
your mobile radio dealer inspect the radio
installation. Proper radio installation procedures
to be followed are published by the radio
manufacturer.
Parking Brake
The parking brake should be used whenever
you park your vehicle.
If the brakes don’t operate while the vehicle is
in motion, you can make an emergency stop
with the parking brake, however, the stopping
distance will be much greater than normal.
The parking brake lever is located between the
front seats. To set the parking brake, put your
foot on the brake pedal while pulling the
parking brake handle fully and firmly upward.
Parking brake (handbrake)
136

137
R WARNING
To prevent personal injury, do not release
the parking brake while outside the
vehicle.
R WARNING
make sure that the gearshift is securely
latched in P (Park) (automatic transaxle) or
in 1 (First) (manual transaxle).
Always check the Brake Warning Light each
time you start your engine. Driving with the
parking brake on will cause the brakes to wear
out quickly and will reduce the fuel economy.
R 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.
The parking brake is not designed to stop a
moving vehicle, but you can use the parking
brake to stop your vehicle in an emergency if
the normal brakes fail. However, since the
parking brake applies only the rear brakes, the
stopping distance will increase greatly and the
handling of your vehicle will be adversely
affected.
Steering Your Vehicle
Your vehicle is equipped with power steering.
Power steering uses energy from the engine to
help steer your vehicle.
If the amount of effort needed to steer your
vehicle changes at a constant vehicle speed, have
the power steering system checked. If the power

steering system breaks down (or if the engine is
turned off), you can steer the vehicle manually
but it takes more effort.
Never hold the steering wheel to the extreme
right or left for more than five seconds if the
engine is running. This can damage the power
steering pump.
Procedures for driving your vehicle will vary
depending on which type of transaxle your
vehicle has. You may be familiar with the term
“transmission.” We use transaxle because it is a
more accurate term for vehicles that have
front-wheel drive.
Your vehicle has one of two types of transaxles:
qa manual five-speed overdrive
qan automatic four-speed overdrive
Driving with an Automatic
Overdrive Transaxle
Putting Your Vehicle in Gear
The automatic transaxle on your vehicle is an
electrically controlled four speed. The highest
gear is Overdrive. The Overdrive position is
reflected by D in the shift selector indicator.
The automatic transaxle uses the conventional
selector lever, and an Overdrive OFF button. All
normal driving is done with the selector in the
D position.
138

Automatic shift lever
Your automatic transaxle vehicle has a
console-mounted shift selector lever. You must
step on the brake pedal, start the engine, and
then push in the thumb button to move the shift
selector lever to the position you choose.
139

140
R WARNING
Hold the brake pedal down while you
move the gearshift lever from position to
position. If you do not hold the brake
pedal down, your vehicle may move
unexpectedly and injure someone.
Shift-lock System (If equipped)
For your safety, the automatic transaxle has a
shift-lock system, which prevents shifting the
transaxle out of the P (Park) position without
depressing the brake pedal when the ignition
key is in the ON position.
To shift the transaxle out of the P (Park)
position:
1. Depress and hold the brake pedal.
2. Start the engine.
3. Push in the thumb button and move the
shift selector lever.
4. See Shift Lock Emergency Override in this
section for more information.

Automatic console-mounted gearshift lever
NOTE: When the ignition key is in the ACC
or LOCK position, the transaxle cannot
be shifted from the P (Park) position.
If the brake pedal is repeatedly
depressed and released when the
ignition is in the ON position and the
selector lever is in the P (Park)
position, a chattering near the gearshift
lever may be heard. This is not a
malfunction.
141

NOTE: Your vehicle’s gearshift lever is
142
securely latched in P (Park) if you
cannot move it without pushing in the
thumb button. Keep the brake pedal
depressed while moving your gearshift
lever.
To make the system more effective, the ignition
key cannot be removed unless the gearshift
selector lever is in the P (Park) position.
Shift lock emergency override
If the gearshift selector lever should fail to move
from the P (Park) position with the brake pedal
depressed, continue depressing the brake pedal.
1. Remove the shift lock override cover with a
screwdriver.
2. Insert the screwdriver into the shift lock
override opening and push the screwdriver
down.
3. Push and hold the thumb button.
4. Move the shift selector lever.
If you need to shift out of P (Park) by using the
alternate procedure described above, it is
possible that a fuse has blown and that your
brakelamps may also not be functional. Please
refer to the chapter titled Roadside Emergencies in
this Owner Guide for instructions on checking
and replacing fuses.
R WARNING
DO NOT DRIVE YOUR VEHICLE UNTIL
YOU VERIFY THAT THE BRAKELAMPS
ARE WORKING.

Once the gearshift is secure in the desired
position, release the brake pedal and use the
accelerator as necessary.
Driving
When to use Overdrive (D with Overdrive
activated)
Overdrive is the usual driving position for an
automatic overdrive transaxle. It works the same
way Drive (Overdrive OFF) works, automatically
upshifting or downshifting as the vehicle speeds
or slows.
However, Overdrive also shifts into a fourth
gear —an overdrive gear — when your vehicle
cruises at a consistent speed for any length of
time. This fourth gear will increase your fuel
economy when you travel at cruising speeds.
Cancelling Overdrive
Overdrive may not be appropriate for certain
terrain. If the transaxle shifts back and forth
between third and fourth gears while you are
driving on hilly roads, select Drive (Overdrive
OFF) by cancelling Overdrive as outlined below.
The Overdrive Off (O/D OFF) button is located
on the gearshift. The Overdrive Off (O/D OFF)
light is located in the instrument cluster.
The O/D OFF light is not illuminated during
normal vehicle operation. This allows the
transaxle to upshift and downshift from 1st
through 4th gears. When the O/D OFF button is
pressed, Overdrive is cancelled and the O/D
OFF light in the instrument cluster illuminates.
When the O/D OFF light is illuminated, the
transaxle will upshift and downshift from 1st
through 3rd gears.
143

Overdrive OFF indicator light
To return the transaxle to normal operation (1st
through 4th gears) press the O/D OFF button
again. The O/D OFF button may be used to
cancel Overdrive any time the vehicle is being
driven. Each time your vehicle is started, the
Overdrive system will automatically be in the
normal “overdrive on” mode and the light will
not be illuminated.
If the light does not illuminate when the O/D
OFF button is pressed, or if the light flashes
when you are driving, have your vehicle
serviced at the first opportunity. If this
condition persists, damage could occur to the
transaxle.
When to use Drive (D with Overdrive OFF)
In Drive (Overdrive OFF), your vehicle
automatically upshifts or downshifts from 1st
through 4th gears as the vehicle speeds up or
slows down. It also downshifts when you need
extra acceleration to pass or when driving up a
hill.
Selecting Drive (Overdrive OFF) will eliminate
the transaxle’s tendency to “hunt” between third
and fourth gears while driving over hilly terrain.
It also gives your vehicle more engine braking to
slow your vehicle than Overdrive does.
144

When to use 2 (Second)
Use Second (2) to help drive up moderately
steep hills or when starting on slick surfaces. It
prevents the transaxle from frequently shifting
up and down. It also gives more engine braking
than Overdrive or Drive when going down hills.
Do not go faster than 64 mph (102 km/h) with
the gearshift in the Second (2) position. If you
shift from Overdrive or Drive to Second because
of hilly terrain, your transaxle will automatically
downshift in the proper sequence.
When to use 1 (First)
When your vehicle is in First (1), it gives more
engine braking to slow your car than Drive (D
with Overdrive OFF) on downgrades.
Do not go faster than 32 mph (50 km/h) in this
gear. You can upshift from First (1) into D
Position at any speed. If you shift from
Overdrive or Drive to First (1) because of hilly
terrain, your transaxle will automatically
downshift in the proper sequence.
Reverse
In the Reverse (R) position, the vehicle moves
only backward. Your vehicle must be stopped
before shifting into Reverse (R).
Neutral
In Neutral (N), the wheels of the transaxle are
not locked. Your vehicle will roll freely, even on
the slightest incline, unless the parking brake or
brakes are on.
145

Parking
Always come to a complete stop before you shift
into P (Park). Make sure that the shift selector
lever is securely latched in P (Park). This locks
the transaxle and prevents the front wheels from
rotating.
146
R WARNING
make sure the gearshift is latched in P
(Park). Turn off the ignition whenever you
leave your vehicle.
R WARNING
Never leave your vehicle unattended
while it is running.
You can tell the gearshift is securely latched
when the thumb button has popped out. In this
position the gearshift selector lever cannot be
moved unless the button is pushed in.
R WARNING
Hold the brake pedal down while you
move the gearshift lever from position to
position. If you do not hold the brake
pedal down, your vehicle may move
unexpectedly and injure someone.

Driving with a Manual Transaxle
Using the Clutch
After the engine starts, allow it to idle for a few
seconds. Then, hold your right foot on the brake
pedal, push the clutch pedal to the floor with
your left foot, and move the shift selector lever
into 1 (First) or R (Reverse).
To move the vehicle, lift your right foot off the
brake pedal and slowly release the clutch pedal.
(You need to press down slowly on the
accelerator at the same time you release the
clutch pedal.)
Do not drive with your foot resting on the
clutch pedal and do not use the clutch to hold
your vehicle at a standstill while waiting on a
hill. These actions will seriously reduce clutch
life.
Driving with your foot resting on the clutch may
cause the vehicle to jerk sharply when pressing
or removing your other foot from the
accelerator.
147

Shifting the Gears
The gearshift for a manual transaxle is mounted
on the floor. The gearshift can be in one of
seven possible positions, as shown.
Shift pattern
Always push the clutch pedal all the way in
when you shift. You should upshift according to
the speeds given in the chart later in this
chapter.
Sometimes, you will upshift at higher speeds.
For example, you may want to stay in a lower
gear to gain more power for passing or for
climbing a hill. However, you must stay within
the range when you upshift or downshift.
148

Backing up
To shift into R (Reverse):
1. Bring your vehicle to a complete stop.
2. Push the clutch pedal in all the way to the
floor and hold it. If you do not hold the
clutch pedal in all the way, you may hear a
grinding noise when you shift.
3. Put the gearshift in Neutral and wait at least
3 seconds before shifting into R (Reverse) to
prevent a grinding noise. Do not release the
clutch.
149
4. Then push the gearshift all the way to the
right and pull it down into R (Reverse).
When in 5 (Fifth) gear, you can engage R
(Reverse) only by moving the gearshift to
Neutral before you shift into R (Reverse).
This is a special lockout feature that protects
you from accidentally shifting into R
(Reverse) when you downshift from 5 (Fifth)
gear.
5. Once R (Reverse) is engaged, slowly release
the clutch pedal from the floor.
If R (Reverse) is not engaged, continue to push
the clutch pedal in while you put the gearshift
back into Neutral. Then, release the clutch pedal
for a moment and repeat steps 2 through 5.

Upshifting
For normal acceleration, you should upshift at
the following speeds:
For cruising, you should upshift at the following
speeds.
Downshifting
When you slow down or climb a steep hill,
always downshift before the engine starts to lose
power. Downshifting reduces the chance of
stalling and gives your vehicle better acceleration
to increase speed again.
When you drive down steep hills, downshifting
helps you keep a safe speed and helps prevent
unnecessary wear on the brakes.
When you come to a stop, do not downshift
through each gear. Disengage the clutch and use
the brake as necessary. Downshifting through
the gears decreases your vehicle’s fuel economy.
150

Parking
To park your vehicle, shift into 1 (First), set the
parking brake fully, and turn off the ignition.
151
WARNING
Do not park your vehicle in Neutral, it
may move unexpectedly and injure
someone. Use 1 (First) gear and set the
parking brake fully.
Driving With a Heavy Load
There are limits to the amount of weight your
vehicle can carry. The total weight of your
vehicle, plus the weight of the passengers and
cargo, should never be more than the Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Also, the weight
that your vehicle carries over each axle should
never be more than the Gross Axle Weight
Rating (GAWR) for the respective axle.
You can find your vehicle’s GVWR and GAWR
on the Safety Compliance Certification Label on
the left door lock pillar.
The weight limits of your vehicle’s tires affect
the GVWR or GAWR limitations. Usage of
replacement tires with higher weight limits than
originals does not increase GVWR or GAWR.
Usage of lower capacity replacement tires may
lower GVWR and GAWR limitations.
WARNING
Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR
specified on the Safety Compliance
Certification Label.

Limiting Your Vehicle’s Load
The load you add to your vehicle must not
exceed the maximum load stated on the tire
information decal.
To figure the weight of your vehicle’s load, add
the weights of:
qthe driver and passengers
qluggage and any other items that you put in
your vehicle
qthe weight of any equipment that has been
added to your vehicle since it was delivered
to your dealer
If you do not know the actual weights of these
items, use the following procedure to figure the
weight of a load:
1. Weigh your vehicle without the driver,
152
passengers and luggage. You might take
your vehicle to a shipping company or an
inspection station for trucks.
2. Then weigh your vehicle with the driver,
passengers and luggage.
3. Subtract the first reading from the second to
figure the total weight of the load.

After determining this load, you must also make
sure that the total weight of your vehicle, plus
the load it carries, is less than its GVWR. Also,
make sure that the weight your vehicle carries
over each axle is less than the GAWR for the
respective axle.
If your vehicle exceeds the GVWR, remove cargo
from your vehicle accordingly. If your vehicle
exceeds the GAWR for either axle, shift the load
or remove cargo accordingly.
153
WARNING
Improper distribution of your vehicle’s
load or carrying weight in excess of the
amount shown on the tire decal can cause
rapid tire wear or loss of vehicle control.
Towing a Trailer
Do not use your vehicle for towing a trailer.
Towing Behind Another Vehicle —
Recreational Vehicle
Towing an automatic transaxle (ATX) equipped
vehicle behind another vehicle, such as a
Recreational Vehicle (RV), is not recommended
unless a front wheel dolly or trailer is used. Do
not tow your ATX equipped vehicle with the
front wheels on the ground or transaxle damage
may occur.

Towing a manual transaxle (MTX) equipped
vehicle behind another vehicle, such as a
Recreational Vehicle (RV), is allowed only if it is
towed forward. The parking brake must be
released, the gearshift must be in Neutral, the
ignition key must be in the ACC position, the
battery must be disconnected to eliminate battery
drain, and the steering wheel unlocked. You
may tow your MTX equipped vehicle only in a
forward direction with the front wheels on the
ground without damage to the transaxle.
Do not tow your manual transaxle equipped
vehicle at a speed faster than 55 mph
(88 km/h). The maximum towing distance is
unlimited.
154
WARNING
Never use a tow bar that attaches to the
bumper when you tow your vehicle. This
could damage the bumper and cause an
accident.

155
Roadside Emergencies
Hazard Flasher
To alert other drivers to hazardous situations,
press the hazard flasher switch on the top of the
steering column. All the turn signals will flash
on and off at the same time. The flashers will
also operate while the brake pedal is applied. To
turn the flashers off, press the switch again.
The flashers work whether your vehicle is
running or not. The flashers will work for up to
two hours when the battery is fully charged and
in good condition. They will not drain the
battery excessively unless they are left on for an
extended period of time.
If the flashers run for longer than 2 hours while
your engine is not running, or if your battery is
not fully charged, your battery could be drained.

Hazard warning flasher switch
If the Engine Cranks but Does
Not Start or Starting After a
Collision
The Fuel Pump Shut-off Switch
If the engine cranks but does not start or if you
have had a collision, the fuel pump shut-off
switch may have been triggered. The shut-off
switch is a device that stops the fuel pump
when your vehicle has been involved in a
substantial jolt.
Once the shut-off switch is activated, you must
reset the switch by hand before you can start
your vehicle.
156

157
The location of the fuel pump shut-off switch
RWARNING
If you see or smell fuel, do not reset the
switch or try to start your vehicle. Have
all the passengers get out of the vehicle
and call the local fire department or a
towing service.

If your engine cranks but does not start after a
collision or substantial jolt:
1. Turn the key in the ignition to the LOCK
158
position.
2. Check under the vehicle for leaking fuel.
3. If you do not see or smell fuel, push the red
reset button on the fuel pump shut-off
switch down.
The reset switch on your vehicle is located on
the left side of the luggage compartment
under the carpet. The red reset button is
under the raised area of the rubber cover.
4. Attempt to start your vehicle. If the vehicle
starts, let it run a few seconds, then turn the
key to the LOCK position.
5. Check under the vehicle again for leaking
fuel. If you see or smell fuel, do not start
your vehicle again. If you do not see or
smell fuel, you can try to start your vehicle
again.
Fuses
If electrical parts in your vehicle are not
working, the system may have been overloaded
and blown a fuse. If a fuse blows, all the parts
of your vehicle that use the fuse will not work.
Your vehicle has two fuse panels. The interior
fuse panel is below the instrument panel in front
of the driver’s door. The main panel is under
the hood behind the battery.

159
Fuse panel under instrument panel
Inside of the instrument fuse panel cover

161
Fuse panel located under hood

Fuses
Fuse panel cover located under the hood
162

165
To remove and replace a fuse, use the fuse
puller provided.
Fuse puller tool and fuse
Relays

167
RWARNING
Always replace a fuse with one that has
the specified amperage rating. Using a
fuse with a higher amperage rating can
cause severe wire damage and could start
a fire.
To find a fuse’s amperage rating, check the
number on the fuse or check the color.
Even after you replace a fuse, it may continue to
blow if you do not find what caused the
overload. If the fuse continues to blow, have
your electrical system checked.
Changing a Tire
If you get a flat tire while you are driving, do
not apply the brake heavily. Instead, gradually
decrease the speed. Hold the steering wheel
firmly and slowly move to a safe place on the
side of the road. Park on a level spot, turn off
the ignition, set the parking brake, and turn on
the hazard flashers.

The Temporary Spare Tire
You may have a high pressure temporary spare
tire. This spare tire is smaller than a regular tire
and is designed for emergency use only. Use it
only when you 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 easily identify it.
168
RWARNING
If you use the temporary spare tire
continuously or do not follow these
precautions, the tire could fail, causing
you to lose control of the vehicle, possibly
injuring yourself or others.
When you drive with the temporary spare tire,
DO NOT:
qexceed 50 mph (80 km/h) under any
circumstances.
qload your vehicle so that it is heavier than
the maximum vehicle load rating listed on
the tire decal.
quse tire chains on this tire.

qtry to repair the temporary spare tire or
remove it from its wheel.
quse the wheel for any other type of vehicle.
qdrive through an automatic car wash with
this tire. Because the temporary spare tire is
smaller than a conventional tire, it reduces
the ground clearance. Your vehicle may get
caught in the rails and it could be damaged.
Spare Tire Location
The temporary spare tire is stored in the luggage
compartment, under the mat and floorboard.
Location of the temporary spare tire and jacking equipment
To remove the jack and the temporary spare,
turn the bolt counterclockwise.
169

Preparing to Change the Tire
1. Make sure that your vehicle will not move
170
or roll. If you have an automatic transaxle,
put the gearshift in P (Park). If you have a
manual transaxle, put the gearshift in 1
(First). Set the parking brake and block the
wheel that is diagonally opposite the tire
that you are changing.
Blocking the wheel diagonally opposite the tire being
changed
When one of the front wheels is off the ground,
the transaxle alone will not prevent the vehicle
from moving or slipping off the jack, even if the
vehicle is in P (Park) or 1 (First). To prevent the
vehicle from moving when you change one of
the front tires, put a block behind the wheel that
is diagonally opposite to the tire.
RWARNING
If the vehicle slips off the jack, you or
someone else could be seriously injured.

171
2. Get out the spare tire and jack.
3. Remove any wheelcovers or hubcaps with
the tapered end of a wheel nut wrench.
Insert the handle of the wrench and twist it
against the inner wheelcover flange. Remove
any chrome nuts or plastic caps covering the
wheel lug nuts.
4. Loosen the wheel lug nuts by pulling up on
the handle of the wrench one half-turn
counterclockwise. Do not remove the wheel
lug nuts until you raise the tire off the
ground.
Removing and Replacing the Tire
1. Find the jack notch next to the door of the
tire that you are changing. Put the jack in
the jack notch and turn the handle of the
jack clockwise until the wheel is completely
off the ground.
RWARNING
To lessen the risk of personal injury, do
not put any part of your body under the
vehicle while changing a tire. Do not start
the engine when your vehicle is on the
jack. The jack is only meant for changing
the tire.

173
2. Remove the lug nuts by using the lug
wrench. Never loosen the hub nuts. See the
following illustration if you are not sure
where to find the lug nuts.
Lug nut positions
3. Replace the flat tire with the spare tire.
4. Replace the lug nuts and tighten snug. The
beveled edge faces inward. Do not fully
tighten the lug nuts until you lower the
vehicle. If you do, you could force the
vehicle off the jack.

Your vehicle has metric (12 mm) wheel studs
and lug nuts. During wheel removal and
replacement, make certain that you use the same
lug nuts to reinstall the wheel or replace them
with nuts of the same metric size and threading.
174
RWARNING
Installation of an English thread nut on a
metric stud (or vice-versa) will not
properly secure the wheel to the hub.
Damaged studs may result in wheel
separation and possible injury.
5. Lower the vehicle by turning the jack handle
counterclockwise.
6. Remove the jack and fully tighten the lug
nuts in the order shown in the illustration
under step 2.
7. Put the tire, jack, and wrench away.
8. Unblock the wheels.
Jump-Starting Your Vehicle
Your vehicle has a Motorcraft maintenance-free
battery. Your vehicle’s battery may die if you
leave the lights on or any electrical equipment
on after you turn the engine off. If this happens,
you may be able to jump-start from a booster
battery to start your vehicle.
RWARNING
The gases around the battery can explode
if exposed to flames, sparks, or lit
cigarettes. An explosion could result in
injury or vehicle damage.

175
RWARNING
To protect yourself when charging a
battery, always shield your face and eyes.
Make sure that you can breathe fresh air.
RWARNING
Applying too much pressure on the ends
when lifting a battery could cause acid to
spill. Lift the battery with a carrier or
with your hands on the opposite corners.
RWARNING
Batteries contain sulfuric acid which burns
skin, eyes, and clothing.
If the acid touches someone’s skin, eyes, or
clothing, immediately flush the area with water
for at 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
vegetable oil. Call a doctor immediately.
RWARNING
Do not push-start your vehicle. You could
damage the catalytic converter. For further
information, see Jumper Cables in the
Index.
To avoid damaging your vehicle or your battery,
and to avoid injury to yourself, follow these
directions for preparing your vehicle to
jump-start and connecting the jumper cables in
the order they are given. If in doubt, call for
road service.

Preparing Your Vehicle
1. Your vehicle has a 12-volt starting system, so
176
you need to use a 12-volt jumper system.
You will damage your starting motor,
ignition system, and other electrical parts if
you connect them to a 24-volt power supply
(either two 12-volt batteries in series or a
24-volt generator set).
2. Do not disconnect the battery of the disabled
vehicle. You could damage the vehicle’s
electrical system.
3. Park the booster vehicle close to the hood of
the disabled vehicle. Make sure the vehicles
do not touch each other. Set the parking
brake on both vehicles and stay clear of the
engine cooling fan and other moving parts.
4. Check all battery terminals and remove any
excessive corrosion before you attach the
jumper cables.
Connecting the jumper cables
1. Connect one end of the first jumper cable to
the positive (+) terminal of the discharged
battery. (You can connect either jumper cable
to the positive (+) terminal, as long as you
use the same cable for both positive
terminals.) Most jumper cables have a red
cable and a black cable. The red cable is
generally used for the positive terminals and
the black for the negative ones.
2. Connect the other end of the first cable to
the positive (+) terminal of the booster
battery.
3. Connect one end of the second cable to the
negative (S) terminal of the booster battery
— NOT to the discharged battery.

4. Connect the other end of the second cable to
177
a good metallic surface on the engine or
frame of the disabled vehicle.
RWARNING
Do not connect the end of the second
cable to the negative (S) terminal of the
battery to be jumped. A spark may cause
an explosion of the gases that surround
the battery.
The sequence for connecting the jumper cables

Jump-Starting
1. Make sure that the jumper cables are not in
178
the way of moving engine parts, then start
the booster vehicle. Run the engine at a
moderate speed.
2. Let the discharged battery charge for a few
minutes and then start the disabled vehicle.
It may take a couple of tries before the
vehicle starts. If the vehicle does not start
after several attempts, there may be a
different problem.
3. When both vehicles are running, let them
idle for a few minutes to charge the
discharged battery.
Removing jumper cables
1. Always remove the jumper cables in
reverse order. Remove the negative (-) end
of the jumper cable from the metallic surface
on the engine or frame of the disabled
vehicle.
2. Remove the negative (S) cable from the
booster battery.
3. Remove the positive (+) cable from the
booster battery.
4. Remove the other end of the positive (+)
cable from the discharged battery.
After the vehicle is started, let it idle for a while
to let the engine “relearn” its idle conditions.
Drive it around for a while with all electrical
accessories turned off to let the battery recharge.
Driveability may be deteriorated slightly until all
drive modes are “relearned.” You may need to
use a battery charger to fully recharge the
battery.

If you need to replace your battery, see Battery
in the Maintenance and Care chapter.
Towing Your Vehicle
If you need to have your vehicle towed, contact
a professional towing service or, if you are a
member, your roadside assistance center.
Recommended towing options include wheel lift
towing or flat bed towing.
When calling for a tow truck, tell the operator
what kind of vehicle you have. A towing
manual is available from Ford Motor Company
for all authorized tow truck operators. Have
your tow truck driver refer to this manual for
the proper hook-up and towing procedures for
your vehicle.
179

Towing With the Back Wheels Off the
Ground
For automatic and manual transaxle vehicles, if
it is necessary to tow your vehicle from the rear
(with the rear wheels off the ground), a dolly
must be placed under the front tires to prevent
transaxle damage.
If the slingbelt towing method must be used, use
the following procedure:
1. Place the front wheels on wheel dollies.
2. Place T-hooks into the T-hook slots located
180
on the frame rail behind the rear wheels.
3. Route the tow chain to clear the exhaust
pipes.
4. Position the tow bar under the rear bumper.
5. Slowly raise the vehicle off the ground.
6. Attach safety chains around the rear
crossmember.

Do not use your vehicle’s steering column lock
to secure the wheels in a straight-ahead position.
Always use a steering wheel clamping device
designed for towing service.
Refer to Towing behind another vehicle
—recreational vehicle in the Index for information
on towing behind an RV.
181

183
Maintenance and Care
Service Made Easy
Ford has two goals for servicing your vehicle.
1. When we can, we design parts that do not
need to be serviced.
2. We want to make servicing your vehicle as
easy as possible. To help you:
qWe highlight do-it-yourself items in yellow in
the engine compartment so that you can find
them easily.
qWhen possible, we design parts that can be
replaced without tools.
qWe give you a Maintenance Schedule that
makes tracking routine service for your
vehicle easy. The maintenance schedule is
located in the Maintenance Schedule booklet.
This chapter tells you about the basic parts that
you need to check and service regularly.
If your vehicle needs professional servicing, your
dealership can provide the parts and service
required. Check your Warranty Information Booklet
to find out which parts and services are covered.
Also see the Customer Assistance chapter of this
Owner Guide.
Ford Motor Company recommends that you
perform the Owner Maintenance Checks listed in
the Maintenance Schedule booklet. These services
are important for the proper operation of your
vehicle. In addition to the conditions listed in

the Owner Maintenance Checklist, be alert for
any unusual noise, vibration, or other indication
that your vehicle may need service. If you do
notice something unusual, see that your vehicle
is serviced promptly.
Use only recommended fuels, lubricants, fluids,
and service parts that meet Ford Motor
Company specifications. Motorcraft parts are
designed and built to provide the best
performance in your vehicle. Using these parts
for replacement is your assurance that Ford-built
quality stays in your vehicle.
NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive
184
fluids in a responsible manner. Follow
your community’s standards for
disposing of these types of fluids. Call
your local recycling center to find out
about recycling automotive fluids.
Precautions When Servicing Your
Vehicle
Be especially careful when inspecting or
servicing your vehicle. Here are some general
precautions for your safety:
qDo not work on a hot engine. The engine
cooling fan may come on unexpectedly.
Always turn the engine off and let it cool.
RWARNING
The cooling fan is automatic and may
come on at any time. Always disconnect
the negative terminal of the battery before
working near the fan.
qIf you must work with the engine running,
avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry that
could get caught in moving parts. Take
appropriate precautions with long hair.

qDo not work on a vehicle in an enclosed
space with the engine running, unless you are
sure you have enough ventilation.
qNever get under a vehicle while it is
supported only by a jack. If you must work
under a vehicle, use safety stands.
qKeep all lit cigarettes and other smoking
materials away from the battery and all
fuel-related parts.
If you disconnect the battery, the engine must
“relearn” its idle conditions before your vehicle
will drive properly. To find out how the engine
does this, see Battery in this chapter.
Working with the engine off:
1. Set the parking brake fully and make sure
the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park)
(automatic transaxle) or Neutral (manual
transaxle).
2. Remove the key from the ignition after you
185
turn the engine off.
3. Block the wheels. This will prevent your
vehicle from moving unexpectedly.
Working with the engine on:
the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park)
(automatic transaxle) or Neutral (manual
transaxle).
2. Block the wheels. This will prevent your
vehicle from moving unexpectedly.
RWARNING
Do not start your engine with the air
cleaner removed and do not remove it
while the engine is running.

Opening the Hood
1. Inside the vehicle, pull the hood release
186
handle located under the bottom left corner
of the instrument panel.
2. Go to the front of the vehicle and release the
auxiliary latch that is located under the hood
at the center of the vehicle.
3. Lift the hood and set the prop rod in the
hole in the hood marked with an arrow.
When you close the hood, make sure the prop
rod is in its retainer and that the hood latches
securely.
The hood release handle

187
NOTE: Apply lubricant to the hood latch at
six-month intervals to maintain smooth
and trouble-free operation.
NOTE: Read and understand Precautions When
Servicing Your Vehicle at the beginning
of this chapter before opening the
hood.
Engine Types
Your vehicle has one of these types of engines:
qa 2.0L (121 CID) fuel injected 16-valve
four-cylinder engine.
qa 2.5L (152 CID) fuel injected 24-valve
six-cylinder engine.

Engine Oil Recommendations
We recommend using Motorcraft oil or an
equivalent oil meeting Ford Specification
WSS-M2C153-F and displaying the American
Petroleum Institute CERTIFICATION MARK on
the front of the container.
The API Certification Mark
Never use:
q“Non-Detergent” oils
qOils labeled API SA, SB, SC, SD, SE, SF or SG
qAdditional engine oil additives, oil treatments
190
or engine treatments
Engine oils with an SAE 5W-30 viscosity are
PREFERRED for your vehicle. They provide the
best engine performance, fuel economy and
engine protection for all climates down to -15°F
(-25°C).
Synthetic engine oils which are CERTIFIED and
of the preferred viscosity may be used in your
engine. The engine oil and oil filter must still be
changed according to the maintenance schedule.

Checking and Adding Engine Oil
Since the proper amount of engine oil is
important for safe engine operation, check the oil
using the dipstick each time you put fuel in
your vehicle. Remember the engine must be off,
the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be
parked on level ground.
Checking the engine oil level:
1. Turn the engine off after it has warmed up
and allow a few minutes for the engine oil
to drain back into the oil pan.
191
that the gearshift is securely latched in P
(Park) (automatic transaxle) or 1 (First)
(manual transaxle).
3. Open the hood. Protect yourself from engine
heat.
4. Locate the engine oil dipstick (highlighted in
yellow) and carefully pull it out of the
engine.
5. Wipe the dipstick clean and put it back into
position, making sure it is fully seated.
Engine oil dipstick

6. Carefully, pull the dipstick out again. If the
192
oil level is below the L line, add engine oil
as necessary. If the oil level is beyond the
letter F, engine damage or high oil
consumption may occur and some oil must
be removed from the engine.
7. Put the dipstick back in and make sure it is
fully seated.
Adding engine oil
It may be necessary to add some oil between oil
changes. Make sure you use a CERTIFIED
engine oil of the preferred viscosity. Your
vehicle’s warranty coverage may not apply if
engine damage is caused by the use of improper
engine oil.
Add engine oil through the oil filler cap
highlighted in yellow. To add oil, remove the
filler cap and use a funnel to pour oil into the
opening. Be careful not to overfill the engine.
Recheck the oil level after you finish adding oil.
Changing the Engine Oil and the Oil Filter
Change the engine oil and oil filter per the
following, whichever occurs first.

193
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule booklet for
additional information.
NOTE: Ford production and aftermarket
(Motorcraft) oil filters are designed for
added engine protection and long life.
If a replacement oil filter is used that
does not meet Ford material and design
specifications, startup engine noises or
knock may be experienced. It is
recommended you use the appropriate
Motorcraft oil filter (or another brand
meeting Ford specifications) for your
engine application.
RWARNING
Continuous contact with USED motor oil
has caused cancer in laboratory mice.
Protect your skin by washing with soap and
water.
Brake Fluid
Under normal circumstances, your vehicle
should not use up brake fluid rapidly. However,
expect the level of the brake fluid to slowly fall
as you put more mileage on your vehicle and
the brake pads wear.
Check the brake fluid at least once a year. You
can do this by looking at the fluid level in the
plastic reservoir on the master cylinder. (See The
Engine Types earlier in this chapter to locate the
master cylinder.) The fluid level should be at or
near the MAX mark.

194
RWARNING
Brake fluid is toxic.
If brake fluid contacts eyes, flush eyes with
running water for 15 minutes. Get medical
attention if irritation persists. If taken internally,
drink water and induce vomiting. Get medical
attention immediately.
Brake fluid level
If the fluid is low, carefully clean and remove
the cap from the reservoir. Fill the reservoir to
the MAX line with Ford High Performance DOT
3 Brake Fluid C6AZ-19542-AA or DOT 3
equivalent fluid meeting Ford specification
ESA-M6C25-A.
RWARNING
If you use a brake fluid that is not DOT
3, you will cause permanent damage 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 the
plastic reservoir — have the brake system
inspected.

195
RWARNING
Do not let the reservoir for the master
cylinder run dry. This may cause the
brakes to fail.
Windshield Washer Fluid
Washer Fluid
Check the level of the windshield washer fluid
every time you stop for fuel. The reservoir for
the windshield washer fluid is located in the
engine compartment. Visual inspection can
determine if the washer fluid is adequate. Do
not operate the washer when the reservoir is
empty.
Windshield washer fluid reservoir

196
RWARNING
Do not put windshield washer fluid in the
container for the engine coolant.
Use specially formulated windshield washer
fluid rather than plain water, because specially
formulated washer fluids contain additives that
dissolve road grime. For safety reasons, washer
fluids containing an appropriate antifreeze such
as methanol should be used in freezing weather
(temperatures below 32°F [0°C]). State or local
regulations on Volatile Organic Compounds
(VOCs) may restrict use of the most common
antifreeze, methanol. Washer fluids containing
non-methanol antifreeze agents should be used
only if they provide cold weather protection
without damaging the vehicle’s paint finish,
wiper blades, and windshield washer system.
Engine Coolant
Adding Engine Coolant
RWARNING
Be careful not to add engine coolant to
the windshield washer fluid reservoir. If
sprayed on the windshield, engine coolant
could make it difficult to see through the
windshield.
When the engine is cool, add a 50/50 mixture of
engine coolant and water to the engine coolant
recovery reservoir — DO NOT ADD DIRECTLY
TO THE RADIATOR. Add straight water only in
an emergency, but you should replace it with a
50/50 mixture of coolant and distilled water as
soon as possible.

Check the coolant level in the coolant recovery
reservoir the next few times you drive the
vehicle. If necessary, add enough of a 50/50
mixture of coolant and water to bring the liquid
level to the fill line on the reservoir.
197
RWARNING
Never remove the coolant recovery cap
while the engine is running or hot.
If you must remove the coolant recovery cap,
follow these steps to avoid personal injury
caused by escaping steam or engine coolant:
1. Before you remove the cap, turn the engine
off and let it cool.
2. When the engine is cool, wrap a thick cloth
around 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 has
198
been released, use the cloth to press the cap
down, turn it counterclockwise, and remove
it.
Use Ford Premium Engine Coolant
E2FZ-19549-AA (in Canada, Motorcraft CXC-8-B)
or an equivalent premium engine coolant that
meets Ford specification ESE-M97B44-A. Ford
Premium Engine Coolant is an optimized
formula that will protect all metals and rubber
elastomers used in Ford cooling systems for 4
years or 50,000 miles (80,000 km).
Do not use alcohol or methanol antifreeze or any
engine coolants mixed with alcohol or methanol
antifreeze. Do not use supplemental coolant
additives in your vehicle. These additives may
harm your engine cooling system. The use of an
improper coolant may void the warranty of
your vehicle’s engine cooling system.
Recycled engine coolant
Ford Motor Company recommends that Ford
and Lincoln-Mercury dealers use recycled engine
coolant produced by Ford-approved processes.
Not all coolant recycling processes produce
coolant which meets Ford specification
ESE-M97B44-A, and use of such coolant may
harm engine and cooling system components.
Always dispose of used automotive fluids in a
responsible manner. Follow your community’s
regulations and standards for recycling and
disposing of automotive fluids.
Coolant refill capacity
To find out how much fluid your vehicle’s
cooling system can hold, see Refill capacities in
the Capacities and Specifications chapter.

Have your dealer check the engine cooling
system for leaks if you have to add more than a
quart (liter) of engine coolant each month.
Severe winter climate
If you drive in extremely cold climates (less than
S34°F [S36°C]), it may be necessary to increase
the coolant concentration above 50%. Refer to
the chart on the coolant container to ensure the
coolant concentration in your vehicle is such that
the coolant will not freeze at the temperature
level in which you drive during winter months.
Never increase the engine coolant concentration
above 60%. Leave a 50/50 mixture of engine
coolant and water in your vehicle year-round in
non-extreme climates.
Checking Hoses
Check all engine and heater system hoses and
hose connections for deterioration, leaks, and
loose hose clamps as specified in the maintenance
schedule. Repair or replace with Motorcraft hoses
or equivalent as necessary.
Power Steering Fluid
Check the level of the power steering fluid at
least twice a year (i.e., every Spring and Fall).
Checking and Adding Power Steering
Fluid
1. Start the engine and let it run until the
power steering fluid reaches normal
operating temperature. The power steering
fluid will be at the right temperature when
the engine coolant temperature gauge in the
instrument cluster is near the center of the
NORMAL operating temperature range.
199

2. While the engine idles, turn the steering
200
wheel back and forth several times. Make
sure that the cap assembly is installed at this
time.
3. Turn the engine off and check the level on
the power steering reservoir.
Where to check for power steering fluid
4. Remove the dipstick to read the power
steering fluid level. If the power steering
fluid is low, add fluid in small amounts,
continuously checking the level, until you
reach the HIGH line. Do not overfill. To find
out how much fluid your vehicle’s power
steering fluid reservoir will hold, see Refill
capacities for fluids in the Index.
5. When you are finished, put the dipstick back
in and make sure that it fits snugly.
If the power steering fluid is low, do not drive
your vehicle for a long period of time before
adding fluid. This can damage the power
steering pump.
If you must check the power steering fluid
before it reaches normal operating temperature,
make sure that the fluid reaches the “L” (LOW)
line range in the reservoir. The reading will only
be accurate if the fluid temperature is
approximately 70° to 100°F (21° to 38°C).

Automatic Transaxle Fluid
Under normal circumstances, you do not need to
check the fluid level of the transaxle, since your
vehicle does not use up transaxle fluid. Refer to
the Maintenance Schedule booklet for replacement
intervals. However, if the transaxle is not
working properly — for instance, the transaxle
may slip or shift slowly, or you may notice
some sign of fluid leakage — the fluid level
should be checked.
If you must check the transaxle fluid in an
emergency, make sure that your vehicle is on
level ground, start the engine, and move the
gearshift through all of the gears allowing
sufficient time for each position to engage.
Securely latch the gearshift in P (Park). Set the
parking brake and leave the engine running.
Wipe off the dipstick cap, pull the dipstick out
and wipe the indicator end clean. Put the
dipstick back into the filler tube. Make sure the
dipstick is fully seated in the filler tube;
otherwise, you will not get an accurate reading.
Pull the dipstick out and read the fluid level.
The fluid level must be above the lower mark. If
it is not, you should not drive your vehicle until
more fluid is added. Ideally, the fluid level
should be within the specified area of the
dipstick.
NOTE: The fluid level indication on the
dipstick will be different at operating
temperature and room temperature. For
the correct fluid level reading on the
dipstick, follow the appropriate
instructions.
201

At normal operating temperature (approximately
20 miles [32 km] of vehicle operation), the level
on the dipstick should be within the specified
area on the “Safe level when hot” temperature
scale. At room temperature, the level should be
within the specified area on the “Safe level when
cold” temperature scale. If your vehicle has not
been operated for some time and outside
temperature is below 50°F (10°C) the fluid must
be warmed by running the engine.
Automatic transaxle fluid dipstick on 2.5L engine vehicles
Automatic transaxle fluid dipstick on 2.0L engine vehicles
202

If you must add transaxle fluid in an emergency,
use only MERCONH fluid, such as Motorcraft
MERCONH Multi-Purpose ATF. Add the fluid in
1/2-pint increments until you raise the fluid
level to within the crosshatched area on the
dipstick. Never overfill the transaxle. If the fluid
level gets too high, remove the excess fluid as
soon as possible; otherwise, you could damage
the transaxle.
Manual Transaxle Fluid
The lubricant level and quality should not
deteriorate under normal use. However, you
should periodically have your Ford Dealer check
the fluid level during regular oil changes.
Constant Velocity Joints
Inspect all rubber boots for signs of cracks, tears,
or splits. Inspect underneath of your car for any
indication of grease splatter in the areas of
constant velocity joint boots, outboard and
inboard locations; grease splatter is an indication
of boot and/or clamp damage.
Battery
The Motorcraft maintenance-free battery does
not require additional water during its life of
service. The vents are part of the cover and
cannot be removed. For longer, trouble-free
operation, keep the top of the battery clean and
dry. Also, make certain the battery cables are
tightly fastened to the battery terminals.
203

If you see any corrosion on the battery cables or
terminals, remove the cables from the terminal
and clean them both with a wire brush. You can
neutralize the acid with a solution of baking
soda and water. Reinstall the cables when you
are done cleaning them, and apply a small
quantity of grease to the top of each battery
terminal to help prevent corrosion.
Battery replacement
When the original equipment maintenance-free
battery is replaced under warranty, it may be
replaced by a low-maintenance battery.
The low-maintenance battery has removable vent
caps for checking the electrolyte level and
adding water, if necessary.
The electrolyte level should be checked at least
every 24 months or 24,000 miles (40,000 km) in
temperatures up to 90°F (32°C) and more in
temperatures above 90°F (32°C). Keep the
electrolyte level in each cell up to the level
indicator. Do not overfill.
If the level gets low, you can add plain tap
water to the battery, provided the water isn’t
hard or doesn’t have a high mineral or alkali
content. However, if possible, refill with distilled
water. If the battery needs water quite often,
have the charging system checked for a possible
problem.
If you ever disconnect the battery or install a
new battery, you must allow the computer to
“relearn” its idle condition before your vehicle
will drive properly. To begin this process, put
the gearshift in P (Park) (automatic transaxle) or
N (Neutral) (manual transaxle), set the
emergency brake, turn off all the accessories, and
start the vehicle. Bring the engine to normal
operating temperature.
204

If you do not let the engine relearn its idle, the
idle quality of your vehicle may be adversely
affected until the idle is relearned. Your vehicle
will eventually relearn its idle while you drive
it, but it takes much longer than if you use the
previous procedure.
Help Us Protect Our Environment
Ford Motor Company strongly recommends that
used lead-acid batteries be returned to an
authorized recycling facility for disposal.
205
Battery recycling symbol
RWARNING
The gases around the battery can explode
if exposed to flames, sparks, or lit
cigarettes. An explosion could result in
injury or vehicle damage.
RWARNING
To protect yourself when charging a
battery, always shield your face and eyes.
Make sure that you can breathe fresh air.
RWARNING
Batteries contain sulfuric acid which burns
skin, eyes, and clothing.

If the acid touches someone’s skin, eyes, or
clothing, immediately flush the area with water
for at 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
vegetable oil. Call a doctor immediately.
206
RWARNING
Applying too much pressure on the ends
when lifting a battery could cause acid to
spill. Lift the battery with a carrier or
with your hands on the opposite corners.
Wiper blade maintenance
Check the windshield wiper blades at least twice
a year. Also check them whenever they seem
less effective than usual. Such substances as tree
sap and some hot wax treatments used by
commercial car washes reduce the effectiveness
of wiper blades.
If the blades do not wipe properly, clean both
the windshield and the wiper blades. Use
undiluted windshield washer solution or a mild
detergent. Rinse thoroughly with clear water. Do
not use fuel, kerosene, paint thinner, or other
solvents to clean your wiper blades. These will
damage your blades.
To make reaching the wiper blades easy, simply
turn the ignition switch to ACC and turn your
wipers on. Wait for them to reach a vertical
position and turn the ignition to OFF. Do not
move the wipers manually. Moving the wipers
manually may damage them.

Wiper blade replacement
If the wipers still do not work properly after
you clean them, you may need to replace the
wiper blade assembly. When replacing the wiper
blade assembly always use a Motorcraft part or
equivalent.
To replace the wiper blades:
1. Pull the wiper arm away from the
207
windshield and into the lock position.
2. Turn the blade at an angle from the wiper
arm. Push the lock pin with a screwdriver to
release the blade and pull the wiper blade
down toward the windshield to remove it
from the arm.
3. Attach a new wiper blade to the wiper arm
and press it into place until you hear it click.

Replacing the wiper blades
Tires
Look at your tires each time you fill your fuel
tank. If one tire looks lower than the others,
check the pressure in all of them. Always follow
these precautions:
qUse an accurate tire pressure gauge.
qCheck the tire pressure when tires are cold,
208
after the vehicle has been parked for at least
one hour or has been driven less than 3 miles
(5 km).

qMake sure the weight of your load is evenly
distributed.
qAdjust tire pressure to recommended
specifications found on the Safety Compliance
Certification Label.
If you do not take these precautions, your tires
may fail or go flat.
Ford Motor Company recommends obeying
posted speed limits.
209
RWARNING
Driving too fast for conditions creates the
possibility of loss of vehicle control.
Driving at very high speeds for extended
periods of time may result in damage to
vehicle components.
At least once a month, check the pressure in all
your vehicle’s tires, including the spare. Use an
accurate tire pressure gauge. Check the tire
pressure when tires are cold, that is, after the
vehicle has been parked for at least one hour or
has been driven less than 3 miles (5 km).
You can find your vehicle’s proper tire inflation
pressure on the tire decal on the right door lock
pillar.
RWARNING
Improperly inflated tires can affect vehicle
handling and can fail suddenly, possibly
resulting in loss of vehicle control.

Tire Inspection and Maintenance
Inspect the tire treads, and remove stones, nails,
glass or other objects that may be wedged in the
tread grooves. Check for holes or cuts that may
permit air to leak from the tire, and make the
necessary repairs.
Inspect the tire sidewalls for cuts, bruises and
other damage. If you suspect internal damage to
the tire, have it removed and checked. You may
need to repair or replace it.
Tire Rotation
Because your vehicle’s front and rear tires
perform different jobs, they often wear
differently. To make sure your tires wear evenly
and last longer, rotate them as indicated in the
following diagram.
Do not include the spare tire as part of your
rotation.
For tire rotation intervals, see the Maintenance
Schedule booklet. If you notice the tires wearing
unevenly, have them checked.
Rotating the tires
210

Replacing the Tires
We recommend that you use the same size and
type when making tire replacements. The
standard model uses P195/65 R14 tires, and the
GT model is equipped with P225/50VR16 tires.
If your standard model vehicle is equipped with
a 3-spoke aluminum wheel, you will need
P205/55H R15 tires.
Replace any tires that show wear bands. When
your tire shows a wear band, it has only 1/16
inch (2 mm) of tread left.
A worn-out tire
Because your vehicle’s tires may wear unevenly,
you may need to replace them before a wear
band appears across the entire tread.
211
RWARNING
When replacing full size tires, never mix
radial, bias-belted, or bias-type tires. Use
only the tire sizes that are listed on the
tire pressure decal. Make sure that all tires
are the same size, speed rating, and
load-carrying capacity. Use only the tire
combinations recommended on the decal.
If you do not follow these precautions,
your vehicle may not drive properly and
safely.

Tires that are larger or smaller than your
vehicle’s original tires may also affect the
accuracy of your speedometer.
Wheel and Tire Matching
See an authorized tire dealer for proper
servicing procedures. Wheels and tires must be
properly removed, matched and remounted to
maintain the best possible ride.
Information About Tire Quality Grades
New vehicles are fitted with tires that have their
Tire Quality Grade (described below) molded
into the tire’s sidewall. These Tire Quality
Grades are determined by standards that the
United States Department of Transportation has
set.
Tire Quality Grades apply to new pneumatic
tires for use on passenger cars. They do not
apply to deep tread, winter-type snow tires,
space-saver or temporary use spare tires, tires
with nominal rim diameters of 10 to 12 inches or
limited production tires as defined in Title 49
Code of Federal Regulations Part 575.104(c)(2).
U.S. Department of Transportation — Tire
quality grades: The U.S. Department of
Transportation requires Ford to give you the
following information about tire grades exactly
as the government has written it.
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating
based on the wear rate of the tire when tested
under controlled conditions on a specified
government test course. For example, a tire
graded 150 would wear one and one-half (1 1/2)
times as well on the government course as a tire
graded 100. The relative performance of tires
212

depends upon the actual conditions of their use,
however, and may depart significantly from the
norm due to variations in driving habits, service
practices and differences in road characteristics
and climate.
Traction A B C
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are
A, B, and C, and they represent the tire’s ability
to stop on wet pavement as measured under
controlled conditions on specified government
test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire
marked C may have poor traction performance.
213
RWARNING
The traction grade assigned to this tire is
based on braking (straightahead) traction
tests and does not include cornering
(turning) traction.
Temperature A B C
The temperature grades are A (the highest), B,
and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the
generation of heat and its ability to dissipate
heat when tested under controlled conditions on
a specified indoor laboratory test wheel.
Sustained high temperature can cause the
material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire
life, and excessive temperature can lead to
sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to
a level of performance which all passenger car
tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle
Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A
represent higher levels of performance on the
laboratory test wheel than the minimum
required by law.

214
RWARNING
The temperature grade for this tire is
established for a tire that is properly
inflated and not overloaded. Excessive
speed, underinflation, or excessive
loading, either separately or in
combination, can cause heat buildup and
possible tire failure.
Snow tires
During the winter months in some climates, you
may need to use snow tires and occasionally
chains for your tires.
RWARNING
Snow tires must be the same size and
grade as the tires you currently have on
your vehicle.
Use chains on the tires only in an emergency or
if the law requires them where you live. If you
choose to use chains on your vehicle’s tires, be
aware of the following:
qTire chains may scratch or chip aluminum
wheels. IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT TIRE
CHAINS ARE INSTALLED ON STEEL
WHEELS ONLY. Be sure to remove wheel
covers (if equipped) from steel rims before
using tire chains to avoid scratches or
damage.
qDo not use tire chains if you have the GT
model.
qLocal regulations may prohibit or restrict the
use of tire chains. Investigate the laws and
regulations in your area before installing
chains.

qPut the chains on the front tires tightly with
the ends held down securely. Retighten the
chains after driving 1/2 mile (1 km). Follow
the chain manufacturer’s instructions.
qDo not drive faster than 30 mph (50 km/h)
or the chain manufacturer’s recommended
speed limit, whichever is lower. Avoid
bumps, holes and sharp turns. If you can
hear the chains rub or bang against your
vehicle, remove the chains to prevent damage
to your vehicle.
qTire chains may affect vehicle handling. Drive
carefully and avoid hard braking.
qDo not use chains on temporary spare tires.
They may damage the vehicle and the tire.
qRemove tire chains at the first opportunity
after using them on snow and ice. Do not use
the chains on dry roads.
Filling the Fuel Tank
Fuel filler door release lever
Your vehicle is equipped with a fuel filler door
release. To open the fuel filler door, pull up on
the release lever which is located in front of the
driver’s seat and near the door.
Remote Fuel Filler-Lid Release Override
If the release does not operate, open the
hatchback, remove the trim on the left rear side,
reach into the opening and pull the latch toward
the rear (see the service manual for trim
removal). You should wear gloves to protect
your hands from any sharp edges when you use
the fuel filler-lid release override.
215

Manual fuel filler-lid override (behind left rear trim panel
in hatch)
To fill the fuel tank:
1. After opening the fuel filler door, remove
216
the cap carefully and slowly by turning it
counterclockwise 1/2 to 3/4 turn.
RWARNING
The fuel system may be under pressure. If
the fuel cap is venting vapor or if you
hear a hissing sound, wait until it stops
before completely removing the cap.
2. Put the nozzle all the way inside the fuel
filler pipe before pumping the fuel.

217
NOTE: If you spill any fuel on the body of
your vehicle, clean it off immediately.
The fuel may dull or soften the paint
if you do not wash it off.
3. Replace the fuel cap completely when you
are finished. Turn it clockwise 1/4 turn until
it is tight. It will click when it is fully
tightened.
4. Push the fuel door closed.
If you lose the fuel cap, replace it with an
authorized Motorcraft or equivalent part.
RWARNING
If you do not use the proper fuel cap, the
pressure in the fuel tank can damage the
fuel system or cause it to work improperly
in a collision.
NOTE: If you replace your fuel cap with an
aftermarket fuel filler cap, the customer
warranty may be void for any damage
to the fuel tank and/or fuel system.
Choosing the Right Fuel
Use only UNLEADED FUEL. The use of leaded
fuel is prohibited by law and could damage
your vehicle. The damage may not be covered
by your warranty.
Your vehicle was not designed to use fuel
containing manganese-based additives such as
MMT. Additionally, vehicles certified to
California emission standards (indicated on the
underhood Vehicle Emissions Control
Information label) are designed to operate on
California reformulated gasolines. If California
reformulated gasoline is not available when you

refuel, your vehicle can be operated on
non-California fuels. However, even though your
engine will perform adequately on other
gasolines, the performance of the emission
control devices and systems may be adversely
affected. Repair of damage caused by using a
fuel that your vehicle was not designed for may
not be covered by your warranty.
Octane Recommendations
Your 2.0L engine is designed to use regular
gasoline with an (R+M)/2 octane rating of 87.
We do not recommend gasolines labeled as
“regular” in high altitude areas that are sold
with octane ratings of 86 or even less.
Your 2.5L engine is designed to use premium
gasoline for optimum performance with an
(R+M)/2 octane rating of 91 or higher. Gasolines
with lower octane ratings can be used, but
performance may decrease. We do not
recommend gasolines labeled as “premium” in
high altitude areas that are sold with octane
ratings less than 91.
Do not be concerned if your vehicle sometimes
knocks lightly. However, if it knocks heavily
under most driving conditions on the
recommended octane fuel, see your dealer or a
qualified service technician to prevent any
engine damage.
Fuel Quality
If you are experiencing starting, rough idle or
hesitation problems try a different brand of fuel.
If the condition persists, see your dealer or a
qualified service technician.
The American Automobile Manufacturers
Association (AAMA) issued a gasoline
specification to provide information on high
218

quality fuels that optimize the performance of
your vehicle. We recommend the use of
gasolines that meet the AAMA specification if
they are available.
It should not be necessary to add any
aftermarket products to your fuel tank if you
continue to use a high-quality fuel.
Cleaner Air
Ford approves the use of gasolines to improve
air quality, including reformulated gasolines that
contain oxygenates such as a maximum of 10%
ethanol or 15% MTBE. There should be no more
than 5% methanol with cosolvents and additives
to protect the fuel system.
Safety Information Relating to Automotive
Fuels
219
RWARNING
Automotive fuels can cause serious injury
or death if misused or mishandled.
qTurn vehicle off when refueling.
qDo not smoke when refueling. Fuels are
extremely flammable.
qDo not siphon any fuel by mouth.
RWARNING
Gasoline or gasoline blended with
methanol can cause blindness and
possible death when swallowed. If any
fuel is swallowed, call a physician or
poison control center immediately.

qAvoid breathing vapors while refueling.
qIf fuel is splashed on the skin, wash with
soap and water.
qIf fuel is splashed in the eyes, remove contact
lenses (if worn), flush with water for 15
minutes, and seek medical attention.
Gasoline and gasoline blends may contain small
amounts of carcinogens, such as benzene.
Long-term exposure to unleaded gasoline vapors
has caused cancer in laboratory animals.
If you are taking the medication “Antabuse” or
other forms of disulfiram for the treatment of
alcoholism, vapor or skin contact with a
gasoline-methanol blend may cause the same
kind of adverse reaction as drinking an alcoholic
beverage. In sensitive individuals, serious
personal injury or sickness could result. Consult
a physician promptly if you experience an
adverse reaction.
Running Out of Fuel
NOTE: Avoid running out of fuel because this
220
situation may have an adverse effect on
modern powertrain components.
You may need to crank the engine several times
before the fuel system starts to pump fuel from
the tank to the engine.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is an estimate of the efficiency of
your vehicle and can be calculated as Miles Per
Gallon (MPG) or Liters Per 100 Kilometers
(L/100K).
Do not calculate fuel economy during your
vehicle’s break-in period. This would not be an
accurate estimate of how much fuel your vehicle
will normally use.

221
To calculate fuel economy:
1. Fill the tank completely and record the
initial odometer reading.
2. Every time you buy fuel record the
amount (in gallons or liters) purchased.
3. After at least three to five tankfuls, fill the
fuel tank and record the final odometer
reading.
4. Use these equations to calculate your fuel
economy:
qEnglish: MPG = (total miles driven) v
(gallons used)
qMetric: L/100k = (liters used) v
(100 kilometers)
Comparisons With EPA Estimates
EPA fuel economy figures are obtained from
laboratory tests under simulated road conditions
and may not reflect the actual conditions you
experience or your style of driving. The EPA
fuel economy estimate is not a guarantee that
you will achieve the fuel economy shown.
The following decrease fuel economy:
qLack of regular, scheduled maintenance
qRapid acceleration and excessive speed
qDriving with your foot on the brake
qSudden stops
qExtended engine idling
qUsing speed control in hilly terrain

qExtended use of the A/C, defroster, rear
window defroster and other accessories
qUnderinflated tires
qHeavy loads
qAftermarket add-ons such as bike, ski or
luggage racks, bug deflectors, etc.
Air Conditioning Refrigerant
Whenever service to the air conditioning system
is required, make sure the service facility uses a
refrigerant recycling system. These systems will
capture the refrigerant for reuse. Releasing
certain refrigerants into the atmosphere can
damage our environment.
Emission Control System
Your vehicle is equipped with a catalytic
converter which enables your vehicle to comply
with applicable exhaust emission requirements.
222
RWARNING
Exhaust leaks may result in the entry of
harmful and potentially lethal fumes into
the passenger compartment. Under
extreme conditions excessive exhaust
temperatures could damage the fuel
system, the interior floor covering, or
other vehicle components, possibly
causing a fire.

To make sure that the catalytic converter and the
other emission control parts continue to work
properly:
qUse only unleaded fuel.
qAvoid running out of fuel.
qDo not turn off the ignition while your
vehicle is moving, especially at high speeds.
qDo not push start your vehicle.
qHave the services listed in your Maintenance
Schedule booklet performed according to the
specified schedule.
223
RWARNING
Do not park, idle, or drive your vehicle in
dry grass or other dry ground cover. The
emission system heats up the engine
compartment and exhaust system, which
can start a fire.
Watch for fluid leaks, strange odors, smoke, loss
of oil pressure, the charge warning light, the
check engine light, or the temperature warning
light. These sometimes indicate that the emission
system is not working properly.
Do not make any unauthorized changes to your
vehicle or engine. Changes that cause more
unburned fuel to reach the exhaust system can
increase the temperature of the engine or
exhaust system.
In general, maintenance, replacement, or service
of the emission control devices or systems in
your new Ford Motor Company vehicle or
engine may be performed at your expense by
any automotive repair establishment or
individual using automotive parts equivalent to
those with which your vehicle or engine was
originally equipped.

By law, anyone who manufactures, repairs,
services, sells, leases, trades vehicles, or
supervises a fleet of vehicles is not permitted to
intentionally remove an emission control device
or prevent it from working. In some of the
United States and in Canada, vehicle owners
may be liable if their emission control device is
removed or is prevented from working.
Never use a metal exhaust collector when you
service your vehicle. If the metal collector
contacts any of your vehicle’s plastic trim or
bumper parts they could melt or deform.
Do not drive your vehicle if it does not operate
properly. See your dealer if the engine runs on
for more than five seconds after you shut it off
or if it misfires, surges, stalls, or backfires.
Information about your vehicle’s emission
control system is on the Vehicle Emission
Control Information decal located on or near the
engine. This decal identifies engine displacement
and gives some tune-up specifications.
How to Prepare Your Vehicle for
Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) Testing
In some localities it may become a legal
requirement to pass an
Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) test of the
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) II system. If the
vehicle’s powertrain system or its battery has
just been serviced, the OBD II system is reset to
a not ready for I/M testing condition. To
prepare for I/M testing, the law specifies that
additional mixed city and highway driving is
required to complete the check of the OBD II
system.
224

The driving modes required to reach the ready
condition consist of a minimum of 30 minutes of
city and highway driving as described below.
q20 minutes of driving in stop and go
city-type traffic with at least four idle periods.
q10 minutes of driving on an expressway or
highway
Before completing the above driving modes, the
engine must be warmed up and at operating
temperature. Once started, the vehicle must not
be turned off during the above driving modes. If
the vehicle owner is unable to meet the I/M
requirements by using these driving patterns, an
authorized service center can perform a detailed
OBD II drive cycle as it would any other type of
repair work.
Lights and Bulb Replacement
It is a good idea to check the operation of the
following lights frequently:
qheadlamps
qtail lamps
qbrakelamps
qhazard flasher
qturn signals
qside markers
qlicense plate lamps
qfog lamps (GT model)
225

The alignment of your headlamps should be
checked if:
qoncoming motorists frequently signal you to
turn off your vehicle’s high beams when you
do not have the high beams on
qthe headlamps do not seem to give you
enough light to see clearly at night
qthe headlamp beams are pointed substantially
away from a position slightly down and to
the right
Headlamp Bulb
Your vehicle has retractable halogen headlamps.
If you need to replace a headlamp, have it done
by a Ford service technician.
High-Mount Brakelamp Bulb
To replace the bulb:
1. Remove the two side trim liftgate panels.
2. Remove the liftgate trim clip and the liftgate
226
trim.
3. Remove the bulb from the socket by pushing
it in and turning it counterclockwise.
4. Install the bulb by pushing straight into the
lamp socket and turning it clockwise until it
locks in place.
5. Replace the liftgate trim and trim clip.
6. Replace the two side trim liftgate panels.

227
High-mount brakelamp
Rear Lamp Bulbs
To replace a bulb:
1. Remove the attaching screw and the rear
lens cover.
Removing the attaching screw and lens

2. Partially remove the rear lens by pulling the
228
lock tabs out of the slots.
Pulling out the lock tabs
3. Turn the socket counterclockwise to remove
it from the lens.
4. Remove the bulb from the socket by pushing
it in and turning it counterclockwise.

The rear lamps
5. Install the bulb by pushing it into the socket
229
and turning it clockwise.
6. Install the socket by pushing it into its
housing and turning it clockwise. The arrow
on the socket must align with the arrow on
the housing when installed.
7. Replace the rear lens and rear lens cover.

Bulb Specifications
Cleaning Your Vehicle
Washing and Polishing Your Vehicle
Wash the outside of your vehicle, including the
underside, with a mild detergent.
DO NOT:
qWash your vehicle with hot water
qWash your vehicle while it sits in direct
sunlight
qWash your vehicle while the body is hot
Pollen, bird droppings and tree sap can damage
the paint, especially in hot weather. Wash your
vehicle as often as necessary to keep it clean.
Take similar precautions if your vehicle is
exposed to chemical industrial fallout.
230

Paint damage resulting from fallout is not
related to a defect in paint materials or
workmanship and therefore is not covered by
warranty. Ford, however, believes that continual
improvement in customer satisfaction is a high
priority. For this reason, Ford has authorized its
dealers to repair, at no charge to the owner, the
surfaces of new vehicles damaged by
environmental fallout within 12 months or 12,000
miles (20,000 km) of purchase, whichever comes
first. Customers may be required to bring their
vehicle in for inspection by a Ford
representative.
Polish your vehicle to remove harmful deposits
and protect the finish.
Cleaning Chrome and Aluminum Parts
Wash chrome and aluminum parts with a mild
detergent. Do not use steel wool, abrasive
cleaners, fuel or strong detergents.
Cleaning Plastic Parts
Some of your vehicle’s exterior trim parts are
plastic. Clean with a tar and road oil remover if
necessary. Use a vinyl cleaner for routine
cleaning.
Do not clean plastic parts with thinners, solvents
or petroleum-based cleaners.
If you have your vehicle rustproofed, remove
oversprayed rustproofing with a tar and road oil
remover. If rustproofing is not removed from
plastic and rubber parts, it can cause
deterioration.
Because your vehicle’s side mouldings are
painted in lacquer, do not use thinners or
solvents to clean them.
231

Cleaning the Exterior Lamps
Do not use dry paper towel, chemical solvents
or abrasive cleaners to clean the lamps, as these
may cause scratches or crack the lamps.
Cleaning the Engine
A clean engine is more efficient because the
engine is able to cool properly. A build up of
grease and dirt acts as an insulator, keeping the
engine warmer than normal.
qExtreme care must be used if a power washer
is used to clean the engine. The high pressure
fluid could penetrate sealed parts and
assemblies causing damage or malfunctions.
qIn order to avoid possible cracking of the
engine block or fuel injection pump, do not
spray a hot engine or injection pump with
cold water.
qThe alternator, distributor and air intake must
be covered. Covering these components will
help prevent water damage.
Never wash or rinse the engine while it is
running. Water getting into the engine may
cause internal damage.
Cleaning the Wheels
Wash the wheels with the same detergent you
use to wash your vehicle’s body. Do not use
acid-based wheel cleaners, steel wool, abrasives,
fuel, or strong detergents. These substances will
damage protective coatings. Use tar and road oil
remover to remove grease and tar.
NOTE: Before going to a car wash, find out if
232
the brushes are abrasive.

If you have whitewall tires that are difficult to
clean with regular detergent, use whitewall tire
cleaner. Follow the directions on the container
and rinse the tires with plenty of clean water.
Cleaning the Interior Lamps
Your interior dome lamps and map lamps are
plastic and should be cleaned with a mild
detergent diluted in water. Rinse them with clear
water.
Cleaning the Instrument Panel Lenses
To clean the lenses on your instrument panel,
use Ford Glass Cleaner and a soft cloth. Never
use paper towels or abrasive cleaners; they can
scratch the lenses.
Cleaning the Seats
Leather
For routine cleaning, wipe the surface with a
soft, damp cloth. For more thorough cleaning,
wipe the surface with a leather and vinyl cleaner
or a mild soap.
Fabric
Remove dust and loose dirt with a whisk broom
or a vacuum cleaner. Remove fresh spots
immediately. Follow the directions that come
with the cleaner.
NOTE: Before using any cleaner, test it on a
small, hidden area of fabric. If the
fabric’s color or texture is adversely
affected by a particular cleaner, do not
use it.
233

Cleaning the Safety Belts
Clean the safety belts with any mild soap
solution that is recommended for cleaning
upholstery or carpets. Do not bleach or dye the
belt webbing because this may weaken it.
Vehicle Storage
Maintenance Tips
If you plan on storing your vehicle for an
extended period of time (60 days or more), refer
to the following maintenance recommendations
to ensure your vehicle stays in good operating
condition.
General
qStore all vehicles in a dry, ventilated place.
qProtect from sunlight, if possible.
qIf vehicles are stored outside, they require
234
regular maintenance to protect against rust
and damage.
Body
qWash vehicle thoroughly to remove dirt,
grease, oil, tar or mud from exterior surfaces,
rear wheel housing and underside of front
fenders.
qPeriodically wash vehicles stored in exposed
locations.
qTouch-up raw or primed metal to prevent
rust.
qCover chrome and stainless steel parts with a
thick coat of auto wax to prevent
discoloration. Re-wax as necessary when the
vehicle is washed.

qLubricate all hood, door and trunk lid hinges
and latches with a light grade oil.
qCover interior soft trim to prevent fading.
qKeep all rubber parts free from oil and
solvents.
Engine
qStart engine every 15 days. Run at fast idle
until it reaches normal operating temperature.
qWith your foot on the brake, shift through all
the gears while the engine is running.
Fuel system
qFill fuel tank with high-quality unleaded fuel
235
until the first automatic shutoff of the fuel
pump nozzle.
NOTE: During extended periods of vehicle
storage (60 days or more), fuel may
deteriorate due to oxidation. This can
damage rubber and other polymers in
the fuel system and may also clog
small orifices.
Ford Gas Stabilizer should be added whenever
actual or expected storage periods exceed 60
days. Follow the instructions on the label. The
vehicle should then be operated at idle speed to
circulate the additive throughout the fuel system.
A volatile corrosion inhibitor added to the fuel
system will protect the fuel system’s inner
surfaces from corrosion. Follow the instructions
packaged with the product.

Cooling system
qProtect against freezing temperatures.
Battery
qCheck and recharge as necessary.
qKeep connections clean and covered with a
236
light coat of grease.
Brakes
qMake sure brakes and parking brake are fully
released.
Tires
qMaintain recommended air pressure.
Miscellaneous
qMake sure all linkages, cables, levers and
clevis pins under vehicle are covered with
grease to prevent rust.
qMove vehicles at least 25 feet (10 m) every 15
days to lubricate working parts to prevent
corrosion.

237
Capacities and
Specifications
Refill Capacities, Motorcraft Parts,
and Lubricant Specifications
Motorcraft Parts

Refill Capacities (Approximate)
238

Lubrication Specifications
The transaxle and steering systems in your
vehicle are filled at the factory with high-quality,
long-lasting lubricants or fluids that do not
require periodic draining or refilling except
under severe-duty conditions. However, when
refilling or adding is required, it should be with
the proper lubricant or fluid meeting Ford
technical specifications. See the Maintenance
Schedule booklet for instructions on maintaining
proper fluid levels.
239

Lubricant Specification Charts
240

243
(U.S. Only)
(U.S. Only)
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect
which could cause a crash or could cause injury
or death, you should immediately inform the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
(NHTSA) in addition to notifying Ford Motor
Company.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may
open an investigation, and if it finds that a
safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may
order a recall and remedy campaign. However,
NHTSA cannot become involved in individual
problems between you, your dealer, or Ford
Motor Company.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto
Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or
366-0123 in the Washington, D.C. area) or write
to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation,
400 Seventh Street, Washington D.C. 20590. You
can also obtain other information about motor
vehicle safety from the Hotline.

245
Customer Assistance
Roadside Assistance
Ford Motor Company has set up a 24-hour,
seven-day-a-week hotline with trained operators
who put you in touch with the help you need if
you experience a problem with your vehicle.
This complimentary service is provided to you
throughout your warranty period of 3 years or
36,000 miles (60,000 km), whichever comes first.
To purchase Roadside Assistance coverages
beyond this period (available through Ford Auto
Club in the United States or Ford and
Lincoln-Mercury dealers in Canada), contact
your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. Additional
Roadside Assistance coverage is unavailable in
Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
Roadside Assistance will cover the following:
qMount your spare if you have a flat tire.
qJump-start your battery if it is dead.
qUnlock your vehicle if you are locked out.
qBring you fuel if you run out.
qTow your vehicle if you are stranded. Even
non-warranty related tows, like accidents or
getting stuck in mud or snow, are covered
(some exclusions apply, such as impound
towing and repossession).

How to use Roadside Assistance
Your Roadside Assistance identification card can
be found in the Owner Guide portfolio in your
glove compartment. Complete the card and place
it in your wallet for quick reference.
To receive roadside assistance in the United
States call 1-800-241-FORD (in Canada call
1-800-665-2006).
Should you need to arrange for roadside
assistance yourself, Ford Motor Company will
reimburse the reasonable cost. To obtain
information about reimbursement call
1-800-241-FORD (in Canada call 1-800-665-2006).
If You Have a Service Problem
Ford Motor Company has authorized Ford and
Lincoln-Mercury dealerships that can service
your vehicle for you. This chapter tells you how
to get service or maintenance for your vehicle.
Service/Maintenance Concerns
(U.S. or Canada)
Ford recommends taking your vehicle to your
selling dealer who wants to ensure your
continued satisfaction. You may, however, take
your vehicle to any authorized Ford or
Lincoln-Mercury dealer. In most cases, your
dealer will be able to resolve your concern.
If you are not satisfied with the service you
received from your dealership’s service
department, talk to the service manager at the
dealership, or if you still are not satisfied, talk to
the owner or general manager of the dealership.
In most cases, you will have your concern
resolved at this level.
246

If you are away from home when your vehicle
needs to be serviced, or if you need more help
than the dealer gave you, contact the Ford
Customer Assistance Center to find an
authorized dealership that may be able to help.
To process your request, the Ford Customer
Assistance Center needs the following
information:
qyour telephone number (both business and
home)
qthe name of the dealer and the city where the
dealership is located
qthe year and make of your vehicle
qthe date purchased
qthe current mileage on your vehicle
qyour Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
If you still have a complaint involving a
warranty dispute, you may wish to contact the
Dispute Settlement Board.
A warranty dispute must be submitted to the
Dispute Settlement Board before taking action
under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, or to
the extent allowed by state law, before pursuing
replacement or repurchase remedies provided by
certain state laws. This dispute handling
247

procedure is not required prior to enforcing state
created rights or other rights which are
independent of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty
Act or state replacement or repurchase laws.
The Dispute Settlement Board
The Dispute Settlement Board is:
qan independent, third-party arbitration
program for warranty disputes
qavailable free to owners and lessees of
qualifying Ford Motor Company vehicles
The Dispute Settlement Board may not be
available in all states. Ford Motor Company
reserves the right to change eligibility
limitations, modify procedures and/or
discontinue this service without notice and
without incurring obligations.
What Kinds of Cases Does the Board
Review?
The Board reviews all warranty performance
complaints on Ford, Mercury and Lincoln cars
and Ford and Mercury light trucks under the
new vehicle limited warranty that have not been
resolved by either a dealer or Ford Motor
Company, except those involving:
qa non-Ford product
qa non-Ford dealership
qa vehicle sales transaction
qrequest for reimbursement of consequential
expenses. Expenses incidental to the warranty
complaint being reviewed are eligible for
consideration
qitems not covered by the new vehicle limited
warranty
248

qitems covered by a service contract
qalleged liability claims
qproperty damage where the damage is
significant when compared to the economic
loss alleged under the warranty dispute
qcases currently in litigation
qvehicles not used primarily for family,
personal or household purposes (except in
states where the Dispute Settlement Board is
required to review commercial vehicles)
Complaints involving vehicles in which
applicable new vehicle limited warranties have
expired at receipt of your application are not
eligible. Eligibility may differ according to state
law. For example, see the unique brochures for
California and Wisconsin purchasers/lessees.
How Does the Board Work?
The Board consists of:
qthree consumer representatives
qa Ford or Lincoln/Mercury dealer
Consumer candidates for Board membership are
recruited and trained by an independent
consulting firm. Dealers are chosen because of
their business leadership qualities.
249

What the Board needs
To have your case reviewed you must complete
the application in the DSB brochure and mail it
to the address provided on the application form.
Your application is reviewed and, if it is
determined to be eligible, you will receive an
acknowledgment indicating:
qthe file number assigned to your application
qthe toll-free phone number of the DSB’s
250
independent administrator
Your dealership and a Ford Motor Company
representative are asked to submit statements at
this time.
To review your case properly, the Board needs
the following information:
qlegible copies of all documents and
maintenance or repair orders relevant to the
case
qthe year, make, model and Vehicle
Identification Number (VIN) listed on your
vehicle ownership license
qthe date of repair(s) and mileage at the time
of occurrence(s)
qthe current mileage
qthe name of the dealer who sold or serviced
the vehicle
qa brief description of your unresolved concern
qa brief summary of the action taken with the
dealer and Ford Motor Company

qthe names (if known) of all the people you
contacted at the dealership
qa description of the action you expect to
resolve your concern
Should your case NOT qualify for review, a
letter of explanation will be mailed to you.
Oral presentations
If the involved vehicle is within 36 months and
36,000 miles of the warranty start date, you have
the right to make an oral presentation before the
Board. Indicate your choice to do so on the
application. Oral presentations may also be
requested by the Board.
Making a decision
Board members will review all available
information related to the complaint, including
oral presentations, if necessary. They then arrive
at a fair and impartial decision, decided by a
simple majority vote.
Because the Board usually meets only once a
month, some cases may take longer than 30 days
to be reviewed. The Board makes every effort to
resolve each case within 40 days of receiving the
consumer application form.
After a case is reviewed, the Board mails you a
decision letter. The Board also provides a form
on which to accept or reject the Board’s decision.
The decisions of the Board are binding on the
dealer and Ford, but not on consumers who may
elect to pursue other remedies available to them
under state and federal law. Decisions of the
Board may be presented as evidence by any
party in subsequent legal proceedings that may
be initiated, where allowed by law.
251

To Request a DSB Brochure/Application
For a brochure/application, speak to your dealer
or write to the Board at the following address:
Ford of Canada Customer
Assistance
Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited
If you live in Canada and have any questions or
concerns that the dealership cannot answer,
contact the Customer Assistance Centre.
Please have the following information available
when contacting the Customer Assistance Centre:
qyour telephone number (both business and
home)
qyour Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
listed on your vehicle ownership license
qthe year and make of your vehicle
qthe date purchased
252

qthe name of the dealer and the city where the
dealership is located
qthe current mileage on your vehicle
Mediation/Arbitration Program
(Canada Only)
In those cases where you continue to feel that
the efforts by Ford and the dealer to resolve a
factory-related vehicle service concern have been
unsatisfactory, Ford of Canada participates in an
impartial third party mediation/arbitration
program administered by the Canadian Motor
Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP).
The CAMVAP program is a straight-forward and
relatively speedy alternative to resolve a
disagreement when all other efforts to produce a
settlement have failed. This procedure is without
cost to you and is designed to eliminate the
need for lengthy and expensive legal
proceedings.
In the CAMVAP program, impartial third-party
Arbitrators conduct hearings at mutually
convenient times and places in an informal
environment. These impartial Arbitrators review
the positions of the parties, make decisions and,
where appropriate, render awards to resolve
disputes. CAMVAP decisions are fast, fair and
final as the arbitrator’s award is binding on both
you and Ford of Canada.
CAMVAP services are available in all territories
and provinces, except Quebec. For more
information, without charge or obligation, call
your CAMVAP Provincial Administrator directly
at 1-800-207-0685.
This plan is not available in the province of
Quebec.
253

Getting Help Outside the U.S.
and Canada
Before you export your vehicle to a foreign
country, contact the appropriate foreign embassy
or consulate to make sure local regulations do
not prevent you from registering your vehicle.
Officials at the embassy can also help you decide
whether you should import your vehicle to that
country.
Officials at the embassy or consulate can tell you
where to get unleaded fuel. If you cannot get
unleaded fuel or can get only fuel with an
anti-knock index that is lower than your vehicle
needs, contact a district or owner relations office
before you leave the U.S. or Canada.
Use of leaded fuel in your vehicle without a
proper conversion may damage the effectiveness
of your emissions control system and may cause
engine knocking or serious engine damage. Ford
Motor Company is not responsible for any
damage that is caused by use of improper fuel.
You may also have difficulty importing your
vehicle back into the U.S. if you use leaded fuel.
254

If your vehicle must be serviced while you are
traveling or living in Central or South America,
the Caribbean, or the Middle East, contact the
nearest Ford dealership. If the dealership cannot
help you, write to:
If you are in other foreign countries, contact the
nearest Ford dealership. If the dealership cannot
help you, they can direct you to the appropriate
Ford affiliate office.
If you buy your vehicle in North America and
then relocate outside of the U.S. or Canada,
register your Vehicle Identification Number and
new address with Ford Motor Company Export
Operations.
255

257
Accessories
Ford Accessories for Your Vehicle
Ford has many fine products available from
your dealer to clean your vehicle and protect its
finishes. For best results, use the following, or
products of equivalent quality:
A wide selection of accessories is available
through your local authorized dealer. These fine
accessories have been engineered specifically to
fulfill your automotive needs. They are custom
designed to complement the style and
aerodynamic appearance of your Ford-built
vehicle. In addition, each accessory is made from
high quality materials and meets or exceeds
Ford’s rigid engineering and safety specifications.
That is why Ford brand accessories are
warranted for up to 12 months or 12,000 miles
(20,000 km), whichever comes first. See your
dealer for complete warranty information and
accessory availability.

Comfort and Convenience
Protection and Appearance
NOTE: When adding accessories, equipment,
258
passengers, and luggage to your
vehicle, do not exceed the total weight
capacity of the vehicle or of the front
or rear axle (GVWR, GAWR as shown
on the Safety Compliance Certification
Label). Consult your dealer for specific
weight information.

259
NOTE: The Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) or the Canadian
Radio Telecommunications Commission
(CRTC) regulates the use of mobile
communications systems — such as
two-way radios, telephones, and theft
alarms — that are equipped with radio
transmitters. Any such equipment
installed in your vehicle should comply
with FCC or CRTC regulations and
should be installed only by a qualified
technician.
NOTE: Mobile communications systems may
harm the operation of your vehicle,
particularly if they are not properly
designed for automotive use or are not
properly installed. For example, when
operated, such systems may cause the
engine to stumble or stall. In addition,
such systems may themselves be
damaged or their operation affected by
operating your vehicle. (Citizens band
[CB] transceivers, garage door openers,
and other transmitters whose power
output is 5 watts or less will not
ordinarily affect your vehicle’s
operation.)
NOTE: Because we have no control over the
installation, design, or manufacture of
such systems, Ford cannot assume
responsibility for any adverse effects or
damage that may result if you use this
equipment.

Front Exterior View — GT model
266

267
Rear Exterior View — standard model

Index 275
Index
A
ABS warning light
(see Anti-lock brake system) . . . . . . . 13
Accessory position on the ignition . . . . . 61
Additives, engine oil . . . . . . . . . . 190
Air bag supplemental restraint system
and child safety seats . . . . . . . . . 113
description. . . . . . . . . . . . 104, 106
driver air bag . . . . . . . . . . 104, 106
indicator light . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
passenger air bag. . . . . . . . . . . 106
service and information labels . . . . . 106
tone generator . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Air cleaner filter, specifications . . . . . . 237
Air conditioning, electronic automatic
temperature control system . . . . . . . 49
Aluminum wheels. . . . . . . . . . . . 214
Antenna, radio (see Electronic
sound system) . . . . . . . . . . . 21, 43
Antifreeze (see Engine coolant). . . . . . 196
Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
description. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
see also Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
warning light. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
warninig light . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Assistance (see Customer assistance) . . . 245
Audio system (see Electronic
sound system) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Autolamp system (see Headlamps) . . . . . 63
Automatic transaxle
driving with . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
fluid, adding . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
fluid, checking . . . . . . . . . . . . 201

B
Backing up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
Basic vehicle warranty . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Battery
acid, treating emergencies . . . . . 175, 205
disconnecting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
how to service . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
jumping a disabled battery. . . . . . . 174
maintenance-free . . . . . . . . . . . 203
proper disposal, recycling . . . . . . . 205
replacement, specifications . . . . . . . 237
servicing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
when storing your vehicle . . . . . . . 236
Brake fluid
brake warning light . . . . . . . . . . . 12
checking and adding . . . . . . . . . 193
description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
Brakes
adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
anti-lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
anti-lock brake system (ABS)
warning light. . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
applying the brakes . . . . . . . . . . 133
brake warning light . . . . . . . . . . . 12
fluid, checking and adding. . . . . . . 193
fluid, refill capacities . . . . . . . . . 193
front disc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
if brakes do not grip well . . . . . . . 133
master cylinder . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
new brake linings . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
noise. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
power braking . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
servicing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
when storing your vehicle . . . . . . . 236
Break-in period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Brights (high beams). . . . . . . . . . . . 15
276 Index

Bulbs, replacing
halogen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 226
headlamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 226
C
Canada, customer assistance . . . . . . . 252
Canada, warranty information . . . . . . . 4
Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan
(CAMVAP). . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253
Carbon monoxide in exhaust. . . . . . . 130
Car seats for children
(see Child safety seats) . . . . . . . . 113
Cassette tape player (see Electronic
sound system) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Catalytic converter . . . . . . . . . . . 222
CD player (see Electronic sound system) . . 28
Chains, tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214
Changing a tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167
Child safety restraints . . . . . . . . . . 111
child safety seats . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Child safety seats
and air bags . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
attaching with tether straps . . . . . . 122
automatic locking mode
(retractor) . . . . . . . . . . . 102, 113
in front seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
in rear outboard seat . . . . . . . . . 113
in rear seat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
tether anchorage hardware . . . . . . 122
Chime, safety belt. . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Cleaning your vehicle
CD player and discs . . . . . . . . . . 31
chrome and aluminum parts. . . . . . 231
engine compartment . . . . . . . . . 232
exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
exterior lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . 232
fabric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 233
headlamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232
instrument panel . . . . . . . . . . 49, 231
Index 277

Cleaning your vehicle (continued)
interior. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 233
interior lamps. . . . . . . . . . . . . 233
plastic parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231
polishing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
rear windows. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
rustproofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231
safety belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234
tail lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232
upholstery and interior trim . . . . . . 233
washing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
waxing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232
windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Clock. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27, 43
Clutch
fluid reservoir . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
operation while driving . . . . . . . . 147
recommended shift speeds . . . . . . . 150
shifting the gears . . . . . . . . . . . 148
Cold engine starting . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Combination lap and shoulder belts . . 98, 100
Compact disc player (see Electronic
sound system) . . . . . . . . . . . 22, 28
Compact disc radio (see Electronic
sound system) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Console, description . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Controls, mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Convenience kit in cargo area . . . . . . 169
Coolant (see Engine coolant)
preparing for storage . . . . . . . . . 236
temperature gauge . . . . . . . . . . . 18
warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
Cooling fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184
Crankcase emission filter. . . . . . . . . 237
Customer Assistance Center, Ford (U.S.) . . 247
Customer Assistance Centre,
Ford of Canada. . . . . . . . . . . . 252
278 Index

D
Daytime running light system . . . . . . . 63
Defects, reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . 243
Dipstick
automatic transaxle fluid . . . . . . . 201
engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
power steering fluid . . . . . . . . . 199
Disabled vehicle (see Towing) . . . . . . 179
Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Driving under special conditions
heavy load. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
towing a trailer. . . . . . . . . . . . 153
E
Electrical system, relays . . . . . . . . . 165
Electronic radio with cassette
(see Electronic sound system) . . . . . . 34
Electronic sound system
antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
radio reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
tuning the radio . . . . . . . . . . 23, 37
warranty and service information . . . . 46
Electronic stereo cassette radio
(see Electronic sound system) . . . . . . 34
Electronic stereo radio (see Electronic
sound system) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Emergencies, roadside
assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 245
battery acid spills. . . . . . . . . 175, 206
fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
jump-starting. . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
towing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
Emergency brake (parking brake). . . . . 134
Emission control system
catalytic converter . . . . . . . . . . 222
emissions warranty . . . . . . . . . 4, 222
Index 279

Engine
check engine warning light . . . . . . . 15
does not start. . . . . . . . . . . 128, 130
fuel injected engine, starting . . . . . . 125
fuel pump shut-off switch . . . . . . . 130
preparing to start . . . . . . . . . . . 125
starting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
starting after a collision . . . . . . . . 130
storing your vehicle . . . . . . . . . . 234
Engine block heater . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Engine coolant
checking hoses . . . . . . . . . . . . 199
disposal . . . . . . . . . . . 184, 193, 203
preparing for storage . . . . . . . . . 236
proper solution . . . . . . . . 184, 193, 203
temperature gauge . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Engine coolant temperature gauge
description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
mechanical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Engine coolant temperature
gauge:electronic. . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Engine fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184
Engine:idle speed control. . . . . . . . . 128
Engine oil
changing oil and oil filter . . . . . . . 191
dipstick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
disposal . . . . . . . . . . . 184, 193, 203
engine oil pressure gauge . . . . . . . . 17
filter, specifications . . . . . . . . . . 237
specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
synthetic oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
“break-in” oils . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
viscosity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
Exhaust fumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
280 Index

F
Fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184
engine fan, avoiding injury . . . . . . 184
Federal Communications Commission. . . . 45
Federal Highway Administration
Regulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Flashers, hazard. . . . . . . . . . . . . 155
Flashing the lights. . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Flat tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167
Foglamps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Ford Customer Assistance Center. . . . . 247
Ford Motor Company of Canada . . . . . 252
Ford of Canada Customer
Assistance Centre. . . . . . . . . . . 252
Foreign registration . . . . . . . . . . . 254
French owner guides, how to obtain . . . . 3
Fuel
calculating fuel economy . . . . . . . 220
choosing the right fuel . . . . . . . . 217
filling your vehicle with fuel. . . . . . 215
filter, specifications . . . . . . . . . . 237
fuel filler door release lever . . . . . . 215
fuel gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
octane rating . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217
quality. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217
running out of fuel . . . . . . . . . . 220
safety information relating to
automotive fuels . . . . . . . . . . 219
storing your vehicle. . . . . . . . . . 235
treating emergencies . . . . . . . . . 219
Fuel cap
removing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
replacing. . . . . . . . . . . . . 215, 217
Fuel filler door
remote release . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
Fuel filter, specifications . . . . . . . . . 237
Fuel gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Index 281

Fuel pump shut-off switch
engine does not start . . . . . . . . . 130
G
Gas cap (see Fuel cap) . . . . . . . . . . 215
Gas mileage (see Fuel economy) . . . 217, 220
Gasoline (see Fuel). . . . . . . . . . . . 215
Gauges, Electronic
engine coolant temperature gauge . . . . 18
fuel gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
odometer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Gauges, Mechanical
engine coolant temperature gauge . . . . 18
engine oil pressure gauge . . . . . . . . 17
fuel gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
odometer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
trip odometer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)
calculating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
definition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
driving with a heavy load . . . . . . . 151
Gearshift
automatic operation . . . . . . . . . . 138
column-mounted . . . . . . . . . . . 138
downshifting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
floor-mounted . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
locking the gearshift. . . . . . . . . . . 61
positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138, 148
shifting the gears . . . . . . . . . 138, 148
upshifting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Gearshift:shifting the gears . . . . . . 138, 148
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)
calculating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
definition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
driving with a heavy load . . . . . . . 151
282 Index

H
Hazard flashers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155
Headlamps
aiming. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225
checking alignment . . . . . . . . . . 226
cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232
daytime running lights . . . . . . . . . 63
flashing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
replacing bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . 225
Head restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
High beams, indicator light . . . . . . . . 15
Hood
latch location. . . . . . . . . . . . . 186
release lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186
working under the hood . . . . . . . 184
Hoses, checking. . . . . . . . . . . . . 199
I
Identification Number, Vehicle (VIN) . . . 252
Idle
relearning . . . . . . . . . . . . 178, 184
speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Ignition, positions of the ignition . . . . . . 61
Indicator lights and chimes (see Lights) . . . 7
Infant seats (see Safety seats). . . . . 111, 113
Instrument cluster. . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Instrument panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
lighting up panel and interior . . . . . . 58
Interval wipers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
J
Jack
operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170
positioning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170
storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
Jump-starting your vehicle
attaching cables. . . . . . . . . . . . 176
disconnecting cables. . . . . . . . . . 178
Index 283

K
Keys
positions of the ignition . . . . . . . . . 61
stuck in lock position . . . . . . . . . . 61
L
Lamps
checking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225
daytime running light system . . . . . . 63
dome lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
flashing the lamps. . . . . . . . . . . . 66
fog lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
hazard flashers . . . . . . . . . . . . 155
instrument panel, dimming . . . . . . . 58
interior lamps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
replacing bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . 225
Lane change indicator
(see Turn signal) . . . . . . . . . . 62, 67
Lights, warning and indicator
air bag. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
anti-lock brakes (ABS) . . . . . . . . . . 13
brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
check engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
engine oil pressure . . . . . . . . . . . 17
hazard warning light . . . . . . . . . 155
high beam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
oil pressure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
rear ABS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
safety belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
service engine soon . . . . . . . . . . . 15
testing the warning lights . . . . . . . 126
turn signal indicator. . . . . . . . . 62, 67
Load limits
GAWR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
GVWR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
trailer towing. . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
284 Index

Lug nuts
standard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
tightening sequence. . . . . . . . . . 170
M
Maintenance schedule and record
(see separate Maintenance Schedule
and Record booklet) . . . . . . . . . . 3
Maintenance (see Servicing) . . . . . . . 183
Maintenance (see servicing) . . . . . . . 183
Manual transaxle
backing up (reverse) . . . . . . . . . 149
clutch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
shifting gears. . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
shift speeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Map pockets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Master cylinder, brakes . . . . . . . . . 193
Mileage, calculating fuel economy . . . . 220
Mirrors
rearview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
side view mirrors. . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Moon roof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Motorcraft parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . 237
N
National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . 243
New vehicle break-in . . . . . . . . . . . 6
O
Octane rating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217
Odometer
description. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
trip odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Oil filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192, 237
Oil (see Engine oil) . . . . . . . . . . . 190
Index 285

Oil viscosity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
On-board diagnostic (OBD II) system . . . 224
Order forms, service information . . . . . . 24
Overseas offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . 254
P
Parking brake
operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
warning light. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Parts (see Motorcraft Parts). . . . . . . . 237
PCV valve, specifications. . . . . . . . . 237
Power door locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Power features
door locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
mirrors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
moon roof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Power steering
dipstick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199
driving with power steering . . . . . . 137
fluid, checking and adding. . . . . . . 199
servicing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Prop rod, hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186
R
Radio (see Electronic sound systems) . . . . 21
Rear window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
washer reservoir . . . . . . . . . . . 195
Regulations, National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration . . . . . . . . . 243
Relays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
Remote entry system
replacement/additional transmitters. . . . 88
replacing the batteries . . . . . . . . . . 87
Reporting safety defects . . . . . . . . . 243
286 Index

Restraints, safety (see Safety restraints)
adult . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89, 98
child. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
head. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
infant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111, 113
Roadside assistance . . . . . . . . . . . 245
Roadside emergencies . . . . . . . . . . 155
Rotating the tires . . . . . . . . . . . . 210
S
Safety belts (see Safety restraints). . . . . . 98
Safety defects, reporting . . . . . . . . . 243
Safety information relating to
automotive fuels . . . . . . . . . . . 219
Safety restraints
adjusting the safety belts . . . . . . . 100
automatic locking mode. . . . . . . . 102
automatic locking mode (retractor) . . . 102
cleaning the safety belts . . . . . . . . 234
extension assembly . . . . . . . . . . 103
for adults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
for children . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
for infants . . . . . . . . . . . . 111, 113
for pregnant women . . . . . . . . 89, 98
head. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
lap and shoulder belts . . . . . . . 98, 100
maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
proper use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
warning light and chime . . . . . . . . 11
Safety seats for children
and air bags . . . . . . . . . . . 102, 113
attaching with tether straps . . . . . . 122
automatic locking mode
(retractor) . . . . . . . . . . . 102, 113
in front seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
in rear outboard . . . . . . . . . . . 113
in rear seat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
tether anchorage hardware . . . . . . 122
Index 287

Seat belts (see Safety restraints). . . . . . . 98
Seats
child safety seats . . . . . . . . . . . 113
cleaning upholstery . . . . . . . . . . 233
folding rear seats . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
head restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
rear seat access . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
split-folding rear seat . . . . . . . . . . 96
Serial number (VIN) . . . . . . . . . . . 252
Service concerns. . . . . . . . . . . . . 246
Servicing your vehicle
precautions when servicing . . . . . . 184
servicing when you tow . . . . . . . . 179
Shift positions (see Gearshift). . . . . 138, 148
Shoulder and lap belts
(see Safety restraints) . . . . . . . 98, 100
Shoulder belts (see Safety restraints). . . . 100
Side mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Sliding moon roof (see Moon roof) . . . . . 74
Snow tires and chains . . . . . . . . . . 214
Spare tire
changing the tire . . . . . . . . . 167, 170
conventional spare . . . . . . . . . . 169
finding the spare . . . . . . . . . . . 169
removing the spare tire . . . . . . . . 169
storing the flat tire . . . . . . . . 169, 171
temporary spare . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Spark plugs, specifications . . . . . . . . 237
Speed control, turning off . . . . . . . . . 72
Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Starting your vehicle
preparing to start your vehicle . . . . . 125
starting a cold engine . . . . . . . . . 127
starting a warm engine . . . . . . . . 127
starting your vehicle if the battery
is disabled . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
Steering, power . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Steering wheel, locking. . . . . . . . . . . 61
Storage compartments . . . . . . . . . . . 80
288 Index

Storage compartments (continued)
center console . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
map pockets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Storing your vehicle. . . . . . . . . . . 234
Sunroof (moon roof). . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Supplemental air bag readiness light . . . . 11
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) . . . 104
T
Tachometer
mechanical cluster . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Tail lamps
bulb replacement . . . . . . . . . . . 225
cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232
Temperature control (see Climate control) . . 49
Testing the warning lights . . . . . . . . 126
Tether anchor installation
(see Child restraints) . . . . . . . . . 122
Tires
changing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167
checking the pressure . . . . . . . . . 208
cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232
inspection and maintenance . . . . 208, 210
replacing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
rotating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210
snow tires and chains . . . . . . . . . 214
spare tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
storing your vehicle. . . . . . . . . . 236
tire grades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
treadwear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
wear bands . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
wheel and tire matching. . . . . . . . 212
Towing a trailer (see Trailer towing) . . . 153
Towing your vehicle
using wheel dollies . . . . . . . . . . 179
with a tow truck . . . . . . . . . . . 179
Transaxle
automatic operation. . . . . . . . . . 138
fluid, checking and adding
(automatic) . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
Index 289

Transaxle control switch . . . . . . . . . 143
Trip odometer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Tune-up specifications (VECI). . . . . . . 224
Turn signal
indicator lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
lever. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62, 67
U
Upshift speeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Used engine oil, disposal. . . . . 184, 193, 203
V
Variable interval wipers . . . . . . . . . . 68
VECI (Vehicle Emission Control Information)
decal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) . . . 252
Vehicle loading
automatic transaxles. . . . . . . . . . 152
calculating the load . . . . . . . . . . 152
manual transaxles. . . . . . . . . . . 152
understanding loading information . . . 151
Vehicle storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234
Ventilating your vehicle
(see Climate control) . . . . . . . . . . 49
Viscosity (see Engine oil). . . . . . . . . 190
W
Warm engine, starting . . . . . . . . . . 127
Warning chimes, safety belt . . . . . . . . 11
Warning lights, testing. . . . . . . . . . 126
Warning lights (see Lights). . . . . . . . . 7
Warranties
basic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Canada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
radio. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
290 Index

Warranty Information Booklet . . . . . . . 4
Washer fluid
rear window reservoir . . . . . . . . 195
reservoir. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
windshield. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
Weight limits (GAWR, GVWR) . . . . . . 151
Wheel and tire matching. . . . . . . . . 212
Wheel dollies (see Towing). . . . . . . . 179
Wheels
cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232
covers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170
inspection and maintenance . . . . . . 208
lug nuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170
replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Windows
one-touch down . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
power windows, operating . . . . . . . 77
Windshield, washing . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Windshield washer fluid and wipers
checking and adding fluid. . . . . . . 195
liftgate reservoir . . . . . . . . . . . 195
operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
reservoir. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
variable interval wipers . . . . . . . . . 68
Windshield wipers and washer. . . . . . . 68
Wrecker towing. . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
Index 291

Service Station
Information
292

97probe

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