1999 Ford Contour Owners Manual

900 m (3000 ft) 600 m (2000 ft) 300 m (1000 ft)

-9%

-6%

-3%

22CDren 3/25/99 3:32 PM Page 129

Driving

It is extremly 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.

Driving with a heavy load The total weight of the vehicle plus the total weight of passengers and cargo should never exceed the GVWR. The weight that the vehicle carries over the front and rear axles should never exceed the GAWR for the respective axle. The weight limits of your vehicle’s tires affect the GVWR and GAWR limitations. Using tires with higher weight limits than the original tires will not increase the GVWR or GAWR of your vehicle; using tires with lower weight limits may lower the GVWR or GAWR of your vehicle.

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Driving

TRAILER TOWING Your vehicle is capable of towing a trailer of up to a maximum of 454 kg (1 000 lbs) gross trailer weight with a maximum tongue load of 45 kg (100 lbs). It should also have 2.3 sq. meters (25 sq. feet) or less frontal area. Do not drive faster than 72 km/h (45 mph) while towing a 454 kg (1 000 lb) trailer. Your vehicle does not come from the factory fully equipped to tow. No towing packages are available through Ford or Lincoln/Mercury dealers. Trailer towing puts additional loads on your vehicle’s engine, transaxle, axle, brakes, tires, and suspension. For your safety and to maximize vehicle performance, be sure to use the proper equipment while towing.

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Follow these guidelines to ensure safe towing procedure: • Stay within your vehicle’s load limits. • Thoroughly prepare your vehicle for towing. Refer to Preparing to tow in this chapter. • Use extra caution when driving while trailer towing. Refer to Driving while towing a trailer in this chapter. • Service your vehicle more frequently if you tow a trailer. Refer to the severe duty schedule in the maintenance guide and or service guide. • Do not tow a trailer until your vehicle has been driven at least 800 km (500 miles). • Refer to the instructions included with towing accessories for the proper installation and adjustment specifications.

Driving

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Driving

Do not exceed the maximum loads listed on the Safety Compliance Certification Label. For load specification terms found on the label, refer to Loading your vehicle in this chapter. Remember to figure in the tongue load of your loaded vehicle when figuring the total weight.

Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended gross trailer weight exceeds the limit of the vehicle and could result in engine damage, transaxle damage, structural damage, loss of control, and personal injury.

Preparing to tow Use the proper equipment for towing a trailer and make sure that it is properly attached to your vehicle. See your dealer or a reliable trailer retailer if you require assistance. Auxiliary coolers are recommended for the power steering system and automatic transaxle system if you are planning on: • Traveling farther than 80 km

(50 miles).

• Towing in hilly terrain. • Towing frequently.

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Using a hitch Do not use hitches that: • Clamp onto the vehicle bumper. • Attach to the axle. Distribute the load so that only 10
to 15% of the total weight of the trailer is on the tongue. Tie down the load so that it does not shift and change weight on the hitch. Follow the instructions of a reputable rental agency.

Using trailer lamps See your local trailer retailer or rental agency for proper instructions and equipment for hooking up trailer lamps. Do not hook the trailer lamps directly into the vehicle’s wiring system. If the trailer lamps are not working properly, the warning lights in the instrument cluster may not work properly.

Driving

133

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Driving

Using trailer brakes Use electric brakes or manual, automatic or surge type hydraulic brakes that meet federal and local regulations. Install and adjust brakes according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Do not connect a trailer’s hydraulic brake system

directly to your vehicle’s brake system. Your vehicle may not have enough braking power and your chances of having a collision greatly increase.

Using safety chains Always connect the trailer’s safety chains to the vehicle. To connect the chains, cross the chains under the trailer tongue and attach to the vehicle frame or hook retainers (not the bumper). Make sure there is enough slack to allow the vehicle to turn corners.

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Driving

Driving while towing a trailer Do not drive faster than 72 km/h (45 mph) while towing a 454 kg (1 000 lb) trailer. Do not drive faster than 72 km/h (45 mph) with any weight trailer while towing in hilly terrain or on hot days. Speed control (if equipped) may not work properly while towing on long, steep grades. If driving with an automatic transaxle: • Use D (Drive) or a low gear rather than D (Overdrive) by depressing the TCS button on the side of the gearshift lever, while towing up or down steep inclines. • Anticipate stops and brake gradually. If driving with a manual transaxle: • Select a gear that avoids jerking or excessive engine speed. • Avoid driving excessively in first or second gear. If you need to drive excessively in first or second gear, the trailer may be too big or too heavily loaded for the vehicle drivetrain. • Shift to a lower gear while towing up or down steep hills. • Anticipate stops and brake gradually.

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Driving

FUEL CONSUMPTION Fuel economy can be improved by avoiding: • lack of regular, scheduled maintenance, • excessive speed, • rapid acceleration, • driving with the brake pedal depressed, • sudden stops, • extended engine idling, • use of speed control in hilly terrain, • extended use of the air conditioner, defroster, rear window defroster and other accessories, • underinflated tires, • heavy loads, • aftermarket add-ons such as bike, ski or luggage racks, bug deflectors, etc.

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Roadside emergencies

HAZARD FLASHER CONTROL Use only in an emergency to warn traffic of vehicle breakdown or approaching danger. Depress to activate. Depress again to switch off. The hazard lights can be operated when the ignition is off.

FUEL PUMP SHUT-OFF SWITCH If the engine cranks, but does not start or does not start after a collision, the fuel pump shut-off switch may have been activated. The shut-off switch is a device intended to stop the electric 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. The switch is located on the side panel in front of the driver’s side door.

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Roadside emergencies

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 ignition key to the off position. 2. Check under the vehicle for leaking fuel. 3. If you do not see or smell fuel, push the red reset button down. If the button is already set, you may have a different mechanical problem. 4. Turn the ignition key to the on position for a few seconds, then turn it to the off 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.

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Roadside emergencies

FUSES AND RELAYS If electrical components in the vehicle are not working, a fuse may have blown. Blown fuses are identified by a broken wire. Check the appropriate fuses before replacing any electrical components.

Always replace a fuse with one that has the specified

amperage rating. Using a fuse with higher amperage rating can cause severe wire damage and could start a fire.

Even after a fuse is replaced, it will continue to blow if the cause of the overload is not identified and corrected. If the fuse continues to blow, have the vehicle’s electrical system checked by your dealer or a qualified service technician. To reset a circuit breaker, press the reset button. The passenger compartment fuse panel is located on the driver’s side under the instrument panel. The power distribution box is located on the driver’s side of the engine compartment. They contain the main fuses and the main relays. The circuits protected are identified by numbers on the passenger compartment fuse panel and inside the cover on the power distribution box.

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Roadside emergencies

Power distribution box To check or replace a fuse or a relay, remove the cover of the fuse box in the engine compartment by releasing the latch (1) and lifting up. A blown fuse can be identified by a break in the wire. All fuses are a push fit. Five reserve fuses with different current ratings are attached to the inside cover of the power distribution box in case of emergency fuse replacement.

Always replace the cover to the Power Distribution Box

before reconnecting the battery or refilling fluid reservoirs.

D1

D2

R7

R8

R9

R10

R11

10

11 12 13 14 15 16

17 18

46 47 48 49 50 51 52

39 40 41 42 43 44 45

R1

R2

R3

R4

R5

R6

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Roadside emergencies

Power distribution box (engine compartment) Fuse

Circuits protected

10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52

Ampere rating — 7.5
20
— — 20
— 15
— 20
— 20
7.5
7.5
7.5
7.5
7.5
— 20* 20* 40* — — 60* — — — 60* — 60* 60*

Not used Alternator Foglamps Not used Not used EEC ignition module (memory) Horn and hazard flasher warning system Not used Fuel pump Not used Ignition, Electronic Engine Control Not used HEGO sensor ABS module Low beam headlamp (passenger’s side) Low beam headlamp (driver’s side) High beam headlamp (passenger’s side) High beam headlamp (driver’s side) Not used Ignition, light switch, central junction box EEC relay Central junction box (fuse 37 to blower relay) Not used Not used Ignition Not used Not used Not used Engine cooling not used ABS Central junction box (central timer module, rear window defrost relay, fuses 24, 25, 27, 28, 34)

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

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Roadside emergencies

Power distribution box (engine compartment)

Relay Circuits switched

R 1
R 2
R 3
R 4
R 5
R 6
R 7
R 8
R 9
R 10
R 11
D1
D2

Fuel pump EEC module Air conditioning Low beam High beam Horn Starter solenoid Engine cooling fan (high speed) Engine cooling fan Not used Daytime running lights Reverse voltage protection Not used

Passenger compartment fuse panel To check or change a fuse or a relay, open the fuse box by pulling down the lock release lever (1).

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A blown fuse can be identified by a break in the wire. All fuses are a push fit. Five reserve fuses with different current ratings are attached to the inside cover of the power distribution box in case of emergency fuse replacement.

Roadside emergencies

R12

R13

R14

R15

D2

R16

19 20 21

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38

Passenger compartment fuse panel (below instrument panel)

Relay Circuit switched

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

Interior lighting Rear window defrost Heater blower motor Wiper motor Ignition Reverse voltage protection

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Roadside emergencies

Passenger compartment fuse panel (below instrument panel)

Ampere rating Circuits protected — C10
40
7.5
15
15
20
7.5
15
30
30
7.5
7.5
7.5
7.5
7.5

Not used Wiper motors (circuit breaker) Power windows ABS module Backup lamps Brake lamps Door locks Main light Cigar lighter Electric seats Rear window defrost Engine management system Instrument panel illumination Radio Parking lamps - driver’s side Interior lighting/electric mirror adjustment Parking lamps - passenger’s side Not used Heater blower motor Not used

7.5
— 30
—

Fuse

19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34

35
36
37
38

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Roadside emergencies

Standard fuse amperage ratings and colors

Fuse rating

3 amp 7.5 amp 10 amp 15 amp 20 amp 30 amp

30 amp fuse link

40 amp

60 amp fuse link 80 amp fuse link 100 amp fuse link

Color violet brown

red

light blue

yellow

light green

pink orange yellow black blue

Auxiliary relays (outside of fuse boxes)

Relay R 18

R 20
R 21
R 22
R 23
R 24

R 25

R 26

Circuits switched

“One touch” switch (driver’s window) Not used Not used Foglamps Turn signals Panic alarm – driver’s side Panic alarm – right-hand side Not used

Location

Driver’s door

— —

Module bracket Steering column Door lock module bracket

Door lock module bracket

—

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Roadside emergencies

CHANGING TIRES Park your vehicle in such a position that neither the traffic nor you are hindered or endangered when changing the tire. Ensure that the vehicle is on firm, level ground. Secure your vehicle further by blocking the wheels. Activate the hazard lights. Apply the parking brake and engage first or reverse gear if the vehicle has a manual transaxle or, if the vehicle has an automatic transaxle, select the P (Park) position. If parking on a slope is unavoidable, block the wheels.

The temporary spare tire The vehicle may have a high pressure temporary spare tire. This spare is smaller than a regular tire and is designed for emergency use only. This tire should be replaced as soon as possible.

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.

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Roadside emergencies

When driving with a temporary spare tire: • Do not exceed the maximum speed of 80 km/h (50 mph) and only drive the shortest possible distance. • Do not exceed the permissible gross weight of the vehicle. • Do not install more than one spare wheel on your vehicle at any one time. • Do not use snow chains on this type of wheel. • Do not drive through an automatic car wash.

Spare tire location The spare tire and tools are located under the floor cover in the luggage compartment.

Removing the spare tire and tools 1. Raise the rear of the floor cover in the luggage compartment. 2. Completely unscrew the bolt and remove the bolt and cup. 3. Lift out the spare wheel. 4. Unscrew the jack bolt and remove jack. 5. Obtain jack handle, which is located on the floor under the spare wheel.

MAX

80

km/h

MAX

50

mph

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Roadside emergencies

Tire changing procedure

Removing a tire 1. Apply the parking brake and 1
(first) gear (manual transaxle) or the P (Park) position (automatic transaxle). 2. Activate the hazard flashers. 3. The driver and all passengers must leave the vehicle. 4. Secure the vehicle against rolling or sliding. 5. Insert the tapered end of the jack handle between the rim and hub cover and push in. Twist off to remove the cover. 6. Loosen the wheel nuts slightly.

7. Place jack with complete support surface on the ground. 8. The jack must be applied exactly vertical to the jacking point of the vehicle. 9. Jack up the vehicle until the tire is clear of the ground. Unscrew and remove the wheel nuts and remove the wheel.

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Replacing a tire 1. Push the spare tire onto the wheel studs. 2. Screw on the wheel nuts, ensuring the tapered end of the wheel nuts are facing the wheel, and secure in a clockwise direction. 3. Lower the vehicle and remove the jack by turning the handle counterclockwise. 4. Fully tighten the wheel nuts in a crosswise pattern. 5. Align the hub cap with the valve and push firmly into position with the ball of the hand. 6. Stow the jack and damaged tire in the luggage compartment by reversing the spare tire removal instructions.

Roadside emergencies

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Roadside emergencies

JUMP STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

The gases around the battery can explode if

exposed to flames, sparks, or lit cigarettes. An explosion could result in injury or vehicle damage.

Do not push start your vehicle. You could damage

the catalytic converter.

Batteries contain sulfuric acid which burns skin, eyes,

and clothing if contacted.

Do not attempt to push start your vehicle. Automatic transaxles do not have push- start capability.

Preparing your vehicle 1. Use only a 12-volt supply to start your vehicle. 2. Do not disconnect the battery of the disabled vehicle as this could damage the vehicles electrical system.

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Roadside emergencies

3. Park the booster vehicle close to the hood of the disabled vehicle, making sure the two vehicles do not touch. 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 battery cables. Ensure that vent caps are tight and level. 5. Turn the heater fan on in both vehicles to protect from any electrical surges. Turn all other accessories off.

Connecting the jumper cables 1. Connect the positive (+) booster cable to the positive (+) terminal of the discharge battery. Note: In the illustrations, “lightning bolts” are used to designate the assisting (boosting) battery.

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Roadside emergencies

2. Connect the other end of the positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the assisting battery.

3. Connect the negative (-) cable to the negative (-) terminal of the assisting battery.

4. Make the final connection of the negative (-) cable to an exposed metal part of the stalled vehicle’s engine, away from the battery and the carburetor.

The preferred locations of an exposed metal part (to “ground” the circuit) are the accessible engine mount studs or an engine lifting “eye”. Do not use fuel lines, engine rocker covers, or the intake manifold as “grounding” points.

152

Roadside emergencies

23CREen 3/25/99 3:35 PM Page 153

Do not connect the end of the second cable to the

negative (-) terminal of the battery to be jumped. A spark may cause an explosion of the gases that surround the battery.

• 2.0 litre engine

• 2.5 litre engine

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Roadside emergencies

5. Be sure that the cables are clear of fan blades, belts and other moving parts of both engines.

Jump starting 1. Start the engine of the booster vehicle and run the engine at a moderately increased speed. 2. Start the engine of the disabled vehicle. 3. Once the disabled vehicle has been started, run both engines for a further three minutes before disconnecting the jumper cables.

Removing jumper cables Remove the jumper cables in the reverse order that they were connected. 1. Remove the jumper cable from the “ground” metal surface.

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Roadside emergencies

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

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

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

After the disabled vehicle has been started and the jumper cables removed, allow it to idle for several minutes so the engine computer can “relearn” its idle conditions.

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Roadside emergencies

WRECKER TOWING

If towing is necessary, it is recommended that your vehicle be towed with a wheel lift or flatbed equipment. Do not tow with slingbelt equipment. Ford Motor Company has not developed or approved a T-hook or slingbelt towing procedure.

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Roadside emergencies

TOWING YOUR VEHICLE BEHIND ANOTHER VEHICLE Before you have your vehicle towed: • release the parking brake, • move the gearshift to N

(Neutral),

• turn the ignition to the off

position and

• unlock the steering wheel.

Automatic transaxle Do not tow your vehicle at a speed faster than 55 km/h (35 mph) or for a distance greater than 80 km (50 miles) unless the drive wheels are placed on dollies.

Manual transaxle Do not tow your vehicle at a speed faster than 90 km/h (55 mph). Your maximum towing distance is unlimited.

Never use a tow bar that attaches to the bumper

when you tow your vehicle. This could damage the bumper and cause an accident.

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Maintenance and care

SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS • We highlight do-it-yourself items in the engine compartment for easy location. • As possible, we design parts that can be replaced without tools. • We provide you with a maintenance guide and or service guide which makes tracking routine service for your vehicle easy. If your vehicle requires professional service, your Ford dealership can provide necessary parts and service. Check your “Warranty Guide” to find out which parts and services are covered. Use only recommended fuels, lubricants, fluids and service parts conforming to specifications. Motorcraft parts are designed and built to provide the best performance in your vehicle.

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Maintenance and care

Precautions when servicing your vehicle Be especially careful when inspecting or servicing your vehicle. Here are some general precautions for your safety: • Do not work on a hot engine.

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.

• If you must work with the engine running, avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in moving parts. Take precautions with long hair. • Do not work on a vehicle with the engine running in an enclosed space, unless you are sure you have enough ventilation. • Keep all lit cigarettes, open flames and other lit material 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, as explained under Battery in this chapter.

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Maintenance and care

Working with engine off (automatic transaxle) 1. Set the parking brake fully and ensure the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park). 2. Turn off the engine and remove the key. 3. Block the wheels to prevent the vehicle from moving unexpectedly.

Working with engine off (manual transaxle) 1. Set the parking brake, depress the clutch and place the gearshift in 1 (first) or R (Reverse). 2. Turn off the engine and remove the key. 3. Block the wheels to prevent the vehicle from moving unexpectedly.

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31CMCen 3/25/99 3:45 PM Page 161

Working with engine on (automatic transaxle) 1. Set the parking brake fully and ensure the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park). 2. Block the wheels to prevent the vehicle from moving unexpectedly.

Do not start your engine with the air cleaner removed

and do not remove it while the engine is running.

Working with engine on (manual transaxle)

1. Set the parking brake, depress the clutch and place the gearshift in neutral.

2. Block the wheels to prevent the vehicle from moving unexpectedly.

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Maintenance and care

Opening the hood • Pull the handle (1) located under the instrument panel.

x 1000

55

50

60

40

40
30
20
10

60 70 80

100

120

80

140

0 0 0 12 3

20

0 0 0 0

MPH

160

90
100
110
120

180

200

130

TRACTION TRACTION TROL CONTROL

O/D OFF

CHECK ENGINE

MIRRO R

• Release the safety catch by reaching under the hood (2) (adjacent to the Ford emblem) and pushing it to the left.

• Raise the hood and support it with the strut (3) in the yellow colored retainer, ensuring it is secure. Hold the support at the yellow colored insulation section. To close, replace the support strut in its retaining clip, lower the hood and allow it to drop into the catch for the last 20 – 30 cm (8 – 12 inches). Always check to ensure that the hood lock is fully engaged.

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Maintenance and care

2.0 litre EFI-engine compartment

Power steering reservoir

Engine coolant reservoir

Automatic transaxle dipstick

(if equipped)

Brake fluid reservoir

Air

cleaner

Windshield washer fluid

reservoir

Engine oil dipstick

Engine oil filler cap

Battery

Power

distribution

box

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

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Maintenance and care

2.5 litre EFI-engine compartment

Power steering reservoir

Engine coolant reservoir

Automatic transaxle dipstick

(if equipped)

Brake fluid reservoir

Air

cleaner

Windshield washer fluid

reservoir

Engine oil dipstick

Engine oil filler cap

Battery

Power

distribution

box

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

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Maintenance and care

Engine oil Use SAE 5W-30 motor oil CERTIFIED FOR GASOLINE ENGINES by the American Petroleum Institute. Do not use supplemental engine oil additives, oil treatments or engine treatments. They are unnecessary and could, under certain conditions, lead to engine damage which is not covered by Ford Warranty. Checking the engine oil Check the engine oil each time you fuel your vehicle. To check the oil: 1. Make sure the vehicle is on level ground. If the engine is warm, turn the engine off and wait a few minutes for the oil to drain into the oil pan. 2. Set the parking brake and ensure the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park). Put the manual transaxle gearshift in 1 (first) or R (reverse). 3. Open the hood. Protect yourself from engine heat. 4. Locate and carefully remove the engine oil dipstick. 5. Wipe the dipstick clean. Insert the dipstick fully, then remove it again. The oil level should be in the range shown on the dipstick.

E T R OLEUM FOR

RICA N GASOLINE ENGINES CERTI F I

Motorcraft

T R OLEUM FOR

RICA N GASOLINE ENGINES CERTIF I

F U L

A D D

Do not exceed MAX!

2.0 l DOHC

Do not exceed MAX!

2.5 l DOHC

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Maintenance and care

6. If the oil level is below the minimum line, add engine oil as necessary. If the oil level is beyond the maximum line, engine damage or high oil consumption may occur and some oil must be removed from the engine by a service technician. 7. Put the dipstick back in and ensure it is fully seated.

Continuous contact with used motor oil has caused

cancer in laboratory mice.

Adding engine oil 1. Check the engine oil. For instructions, refer to Checking the engine oil in this chapter. 2. If the fluid level is not within the normal range, add only certified engine oil of the preferred viscosity. Add engine oil through the oil filler cap. Remove the filler cap and use a funnel to pour oil in the opening. 3. Recheck the oil level. Make sure the oil level is not above the MAX mark on the dipstick. Change your engine oil and oil filter according to the scheduled mileage and time requirements, whichever occurs first.

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Maintenance and care

Refer to the maintenance guide and or service guide for additional information.

It is recommended you use the appropriate Motorcraft oil filter (or another brand meeting Ford specifications) for your engine application.

Always dispose of used automotive fluids in a

responsible manner. Follow your community’s standards for disposing of these types of fluids. Call your local recycling center to find out more about recycling automotive fluids.

Engine oil filler cap The design of the filler cap varies by engine. To open, turn in the direction of the arrow and pull. Do not open the cap while the engine is running.

Empty and used oil containers must be disposed of at an authorized waste disposal facility.

167

M

AX

MIN

BRAKE

BRAKE

Alternative design

31CMCen 3/25/99 3:45 PM Page 168

Maintenance and care

Brake/clutch fluid reservoir Brake and clutch fluid systems are supplied from the same reservoir. The level of the fluid must lie between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir. If the level falls below the MIN mark, the brake fluid level warning light on the instrument cluster will illuminate. Add only DOT 3, DOT 4
or Super DOT 4 brake fluid that meets the Ford specification (see the chapter Capacities and specifications). If you use brake fluid that is not DOT 3, DOT 4 or Super DOT 4 you will cause permanent damage to your brakes.

Brake fluid is toxic.

Do not let the reservoir for the master cylinder run dry. This may cause the brakes to fail.

Windshield washer system If necessary, add enough washer fluid to fill the reservoir. Follow the instructions on the washer fluid label.

Do not put engine coolant in the container for the

windshield washer fluid.

168

Maintenance and care

MAX

MIN

31CMCen 3/25/99 3:45 PM Page 169

Engine coolant maintenance Checking and adding engine coolant Check the level of the coolant in the reservoir at least once a month. Be sure to read and understand Precautions when servicing your vehicle in this chapter. If the engine coolant has not been checked for a long period of time, the engine coolant reservoir may eventually empty. If this occurs, add engine coolant to the coolant reservoir. For more information refer to Adding engine coolant in this chapter. Automotive fluids are not interchangeable; do not use engine coolant, antifreeze or windshield washer fluid outside its specified function and vehicle location.

Do not put windshield washer fluid in the container

for engine coolant.

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Maintenance and care

When adding engine coolant Ford recommends Ford Premium Cooling System Fluid, which is an optimized formula that will protect all metals and rubber elastomers used in Ford engines for four years or 80 000 km (50 000 miles). It is neither necessary nor recommended to use supplemental coolant additives in your gasoline- powered vehicle. These additives may harm your engine coolant system. When you change or add engine coolant, it is important to maintain engine coolant concentration between 40% (-24°C [-11°F]) and 60% (-52°C [-62°F]), depending on your local climate conditions. A coolant concentration below 40% will result in a loss of freeze protection. A concentration above 60% may cause the engine to overheat on a warm day. Refer to Lubricant specifications in the Capacities and specifications chapter. Use only a premium nationally-recognized brand name engine coolant or equivalent.

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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 specifications 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 standards for recycling and disposing of automotive fluids.

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Adding engine coolant 1. Before removing the engine coolant recovery cap, turn the engine off and allow it to cool. 2. When the engine is cool, turn and remove the cap.

Never remove the coolant recovery cap while the

engine is running or hot.

• Step back for a moment while the pressure in the reservoir is released. • Stand away from the reservoir opening. Hot steam or coolant spray may be released. 3. Add engine coolant until the fluid level in the reservoir is between the MAX and MIN lines on the reservoir. Follow the recommended service interval for changing engine coolant as outlined in the maintenance guide and or service guide. Refer to Capacities and specifications for more information on engine coolant specifications. Have your dealer or a qualified service technician check the engine coolant system for leaks if you have to add more than a litre (quart) of engine coolant per month.

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Severe winter climate If you drive in extremely cold climates (less than -36°C [-34°F]), 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 the 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 and adding power steering fluid Switch off the engine. With the steering system at normal operating temperature, the fluid level should come up to the MAX mark. If the fluid level drops below the MIN mark, add the specified fluid. Refer to the Capacities and specifications chapter.

MAX MIN

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Automatic transaxle fluid Follow the scheduled service intervals outlined in the maintenance guide and or service guide. Before adding any fluid, make sure the correct type is used. The type of fluid used is normally indicated on the dipstick and/or dipstick handle and also in the Lubricant specifications section in the Capacities and specifications chapter. Do not drive the vehicle if the fluid level is below the hole at the bottom of the dipstick and outside temperatures are above 10°C (50°F). Your transaxle does not use up fluid. However, it is recommended that you check the transaxle fluid at least twice a year. The fluid level should be checked if the transaxle is not working properly, i.e., if the transaxle slips or shifts slowly or if you notice some sign of fluid leakage. Transaxle fluid should be checked at normal operating temperatures of 66°C - 77°C (150°F - 170°F) on a level surface while the engine is running in the P (Park) gearshift lever position. The normal operating temperature can be reached after approximately 32 km (20 miles) of driving.

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The transaxle fluid should be in this range if at normal operating temperature 66°C - 77°C (150°F - 170°F).

The transaxle fluid should be in this range if at room temperature 10°C - 35°C (50°F - 95°F). If the vehicle has been operated for an extended period at high speeds, in the city during hot weather or pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be turned off for about thirty minutes to allow the fluid to cool before checking. 1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. 2. With the parking brake engaged and your foot on the brake pedal, start the engine and move the gearshift lever through all of the gear ranges. Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage. 3. Latch the gearshift lever in P (Park) and leave the engine running. 4. Remove the dipstick, wiping it clean with a clean, dry lint free rag. 5. Install the dipstick making sure it is fully seated in the filler tube.

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6. Remove the dipstick and inspect the fluid level. The fluid level should be in the crosshatched area on the dipstick. 7. If necessary, add fluid in .25 litre (1/2 pint) increments through the filler tube until the level is correct. 8. If an overfill occurs, excess fluid should be removed by a qualified technician. An overfill condition of transaxle fluid may cause shift and/or engagement concerns and/or possible damage.

Battery Your vehicle may be equipped with a Motorcraft maintenance-free battery. The Motorcraft maintenance-free battery normally does not require additional water during its life of service. However, for severe service usage or in high temperature climates, refer to the maintenance guide and or service guide for additional information. Keep the electrolyte in each cell up to the “level” indicator. Do not overfill the battery cell. For longer, trouble-free operation, keep the top of the battery clean and dry. Also, make certain the battery cables are always tightly fastened to the battery terminals.

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If you see any corrosion on the battery cables or terminals, remove the cables from the terminal(s) and clean 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 If your original equipment battery requires replacement while under warranty, it will be replaced with a Motorcraft service battery, identical in design technology. Like the original equipment battery, it should not require water addition during its normal life of service; however, for severe service usage or in high temperature climates, refer to the maintenance guide and or service guide for more information. Do not overfill the battery cell. If the electrolyte level in your battery gets low, you can add plain tap water to the battery, as long as you do not use hard water (water with a high mineral or alkali content). If possible, however, try to only fill the battery cell with distilled water. If the battery needs water often, have the charging system checked.

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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.

Batteries normally produce explosive gases which can

cause personal injury. Do not allow flames, sparks or lit tobacco to come near the battery. Always cover your face and protect your eyes and also provide ventilation.

Follow these steps to minimize risk of personal

injury.

Always dispose of automotive batteries in a responsible

manner. Follow your community’s local standards for disposal. Call your local recycling center to find out more about recycling automotive batteries.

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Relearning the idle function Because your vehicle’s engine is electronically controlled, some control conditions are maintained by power from the battery. When the battery is disconnected or a new battery is installed, the computer must “relearn” its idle conditions before your vehicle can drive properly. To begin this process: 1. Put the automatic transaxle gearshift in P (Park). Put the manual transaxle gearshift in neutral. 2. Turn off all accessories and start the vehicle. 3. Let the engine idle for at least one minute. 4. The “relearning” process will automatically complete as you drive the vehicle. • If you do not allow the engine to “relearn” its idle, the idle quality of your vehicle may be adversely affected until the idle is eventually “relearned”. • If the battery has been disconnected or if a new battery has been installed, the clock and preset radio stations must be reset once the battery is reconnected.

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Checking wiper blades Check the wiper blades on your vehicle for roughness by running the tips of your fingers over the edge of the blade. Traces of grease, silicone and fuel prevent wiper blades from functioning properly. We recommend Ford cleaning solutions or equivalent to clean wiper blades. Change the wiper blades on your vehicle at least once a year.

Cabin air filter replacement In your climate control system, you have a filter that cleans the air before it enters the interior of the vehicle. This filter should be replaced at the intervals in the maintenance guide and or service guide. To replace the cabin air filter: 1. Unscrew the nut in the base of each windshield wiper arm. Remove the windshield wiper arms.

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2. Remove the plastic caps from the screws on the grille. Remove the screws.

3. Open the hood. Pull off the rubber weatherstrip at the back of the engine compartment. Remove the screws that hold the grille, separate the two halves and remove the grille.

4. The filter is in a housing at the back of the engine compartment, on the passenger side. Pull off the two clips on the sides of the housing. Slide out the top part of the housing and filter. 5. Slide the filter out of the housing, replace with the new filter and slide the top part of the housing and cabin air filter back into place. Reinstall the clips on the housing. 6. Replace the grille and wiper arms.

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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 Regulation 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.

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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 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 AA A B C The traction grades, from highest to lowest are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades 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.

The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on

straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.

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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.

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.

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Checking tire pressure Check the tire pressure periodically after the vehicle has been parked for at least one hour or has been driven less than 5 km (3 miles). Inflate the tires as necessary. To check the tire pressure, insert the tire pressure gauge into the valve. The cold pressure amount is listed on the Safety Compliance Certification label.

Improperly inflated tires can affect vehicle handling and

can fail suddenly, possibly resulting in loss of vehicle control.

Rotating tires Rotate your tires at regular intervals for even wear. Rotation intervals are listed in the maintenance guide and or service guide.

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Replacing tires Replace tires when the wear band is visible through the tire treads.

When replacing full size tires, never mix radial, bias-