2000 Ford Contour Owners Manual

can be toxic. Always open the garage door before you start the engine. See Guarding against exhaust fumes in this chapter for more instructions.

IMPORTANT VENTILATION INFORMATION If the engine is idling while the vehicle is stopped in an open area for long periods of time, open the windows at least 2.5 cm (1 inch).

Adjust the heating or air conditioning to bring in fresh air.

Starting

OFF

PANEL A/C MAX A/C

PNL/FLR

FLOOR FLR DEF DEF

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Starting

Improve vehicle ventilation by keeping all air inlet vents clear of snow, leaves, and other debris.

Guarding against exhaust fumes Although odorless and colorless, carbon monoxide is present in exhaust fumes. Take precautions to avoid its dangerous effects.

If you ever smell exhaust fumes of any kind inside your vehicle, have your dealer inspect and fix your vehicle immediately. Do not drive if you smell exhaust fumes. These fumes are harmful and could kill you.

Have the exhaust and body ventilation system checked whenever: • the vehicle is raised for service. • the sound of the exhaust system changes. • the vehicle has been damaged in a collision.

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PREPARING TO START THE VEHICLE Engine starting is controlled by the spark ignition system. This system meets all Canadian Interference- Causing Equipment standard requirements regulating the impulse electrical field strength of radio noise. When starting the engine, avoid pressing the accelerator pedal before or during starting. Only use the accelerator pedal when you have difficulty starting the engine. For more information on starting the vehicle, refer to Starting the engine in this chapter. Before starting the vehicle: 1. Make sure all vehicle occupants have buckled their safety belts. For more information on safety belts and their proper usage, refer to the Seating and safety restraints chapter. 2. Make sure the headlamps and vehicle accessories are off.

Starting

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Starting

If starting a vehicle with an automatic transaxle: • Make sure the parking brake is set. • Make sure the gearshift is in P (Park).

If starting a vehicle with a manual transaxle: • Make sure the parking brake is set. • Push the clutch pedal to the floor otherwise the engine will not crank (turn over). • Put the gearshift into neutral.

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3. Turn the key to the on position (without turning the key to start). Make sure the following lights illuminate briefly. If a light fails to illuminate, have the vehicle serviced by your dealer or a qualified service technician.

• If the driver’s safety belt is fastened, the safety belt warning light does not illuminate.

Starting

BRAKE

BRAKE

Alternative design

CHECK ENGINE

TRACTION CONTROL

O/D OFF

Alternative design

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Starting

STARTING THE ENGINE

1. Turn the key to the start position (4) without pressing the accelerator pedal and release as soon as the engine starts. The key will return to the on (3) position.

2. If the engine does not start within five seconds, wait ten seconds and try again. 3. If the engine does not start in two attempts OR the temperature is below -12°C (10°F), depress the accelerator pedal and start the engine while holding the accelerator pedal down. Release accelerator pedal when the engine starts. Vehicles equipped with the 2.0 l engine: If the engine fails to start, continue to crank with the accelerator depressed about 1/4 of the way down and hold that position until the engine starts. DO NOT crank for more than 30 seconds or you could damage the starter. 4. After idling the engine for a few seconds, apply the brake pedal and release the parking brake.

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USING THE ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (if equipped) An engine block heater warms the engine coolant, which improves starting, warms up the engine faster and allows the heater- defroster system to respond quickly. It is strongly recommended if you live in a region where temperatures reach –23°C (–10°F) or below.

For best results, plug the heater in at least three hours before starting the vehicle. Using the heater for more than three hours will not harm the engine, so the heater can be plugged in the night before starting the vehicle.

To prevent electrical shock, do not use your heater with ungrounded electrical systems or two-pronged (cheater) adapters.

Starting

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Driving

BRAKES Your brakes are self-adjusting. Refer to the “Scheduled Maintenance Guide” for maintenance intervals.

Anti-lock braking system (ABS) (if equipped) The ABS operates by detecting the onset of wheel lock-up during brake applications and compensating for this tendency. The wheels are prevented from locking even when the brakes are firmly applied, helping to ensure that the vehicle can be steered and the driver can avoid obstacles. Operation of the anti-lock braking system The anti-lock braking system is not employed during normal braking. It becomes operational only when it senses differences in the rotational speed of the road wheels, indicating that they are about to lock-up. Its operation is indicated by a pulsing of the brake pedal. Do not release the pedal while braking.

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Driving

Two important rules when braking in emergencies with ABS:

Braking with ABS • In an emergency, apply full force on the brake pedal. In vehicles with manual transaxles, you must also depress the clutch pedal. The anti-lock braking system will be activated immediately, allowing you to retain full steering control of your vehicle and, providing there is sufficient space, will enable you to avoid obstacles. • We recommend that you familiarize yourself with this braking technique. However, avoid taking any unnecessary risks. • Although the ABS ensures optimum braking efficiency, stopping distances can vary greatly, depending on the road surface and conditions. Use of the ABS cannot eliminate the dangers inherent in driving too close to the vehicle in front of you, hydroplaning, excessive cornering speed, or poor road surfaces.

1. Apply full force on both brake and clutch pedal (if equipped).

2. Steer around the obstacle. No matter how hard you brake, steering control is maintained.

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Driving

Parking brake To engage the parking brake: Pull the handle upward.

To release the parking brake: 1. Press and hold the release button. 2. Push handle downward to the off position.

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).

To prevent personal injury, do not release the parking brake while outside the vehicle.

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Driving

TRACTION CONTROL (if equipped) This system prevents wheel spin at all speeds. The control will toggle this function on and off, but the feature defaults to on after each cycle of the ignition key. The traction control system controls excessive wheel spin by automatically applying and releasing the brakes in conjunction with engine torque reductions. This can occur when accelerating on a slippery road, a loose surface or when pulling away on a hill. The traction control lamp flashes on the instrument panel when the system is functioning to regulate tire traction. When the ignition is turned to the on position, the traction control system light comes on for approximately three (3) seconds. If the light does not come on when the ignition is turned to the on position or if it remains on continuously when the traction control system is turned on, have the system serviced by your dealer or a qualified service technician. You can continue to drive and do not need to have the vehicle towed in. You should not take unnecessary driving risks because of the system’s safety potential.

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Driving

Switching off traction control If you become stuck in snow or on a slippery road surface, try switching off the traction control system by pressing the switch. This may allow the excess wheel spin to “dig“ the vehicle out or enable a successful “rocking“ maneuver. Do not rock the vehicle for more than a few minutes, because it could damage the vehicle. The light in the control illuminates continuously when the system has been switched off. To reactivate the system, depress the switch again or restart the engine.

STEERING YOUR VEHICLE Your vehicle comes with power steering. Power steering uses energy from the engine to help steer your vehicle. If the amount of effort needed to steer your vehicle changes at a constant vehicle speed, have the power steering system checked. If the power steering system breaks down (or if the engine is turned off), you can steer the vehicle manually but it takes more effort. 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.

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Driving

Speed sensitive power steering (if equipped) The steering system is speed sensitive. This means that the steering effort is light for parking and heavier for highway driving. However, if you have to swerve around an object or another vehicle, your vehicle will have full power assist.

TRANSAXLE OPERATION

Automatic transaxle (if equipped) Your 2.5 l V6 automatic transaxle electronically controls the shift feel by using an adaptive learning strategy. This feature is designed to optimize shift smoothness. It is normal for your transaxle to adjust during the first few hundred kilometers (miles) of operation until the adaptive strategy has been learned. The adaptive learning strategy is maintained by power from the battery. When the battery is disconnected or a new battery is installed, the transaxle must relearn its adaptive strategy. Optimal shifting will resume within a few hundred kilometers (miles) of operation. Vehicles equipped with an automatic transaxle are equipped with a brake-shift interlock feature that prevents the gearshift lever from being moved from the P (Park) position unless the brake pedal is depressed.

Putting your vehicle in gear You must push the thumb button to move the gearshift to the position you choose. To operate: 1. Start the engine. 2. Depress and hold the brake pedal. 3. Move the gearshift lever out of P (Park).

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Driving

Overriding the brake-shift interlock feature If it is necessary to use this procedure to move the gearshift lever, it is possible that a fuse has blown and the vehicle’s brakelamps may not be working. Refer to Fuses and relays in the Roadside emergencies chapter. If you cannot move the gearshift lever from P (Park) with the brake pedal depressed: 1. Turn the ignition off and remove the ignition key. 2. Apply the parking brake and the brake pedal. 3. Insert a screwdriver or similar item about 5 cm (2 inches) into the square opening to the right of the gearshift at the base of the console. 4. Rotate the screwdriver point rearward. 5. Push and hold the thumb button and move the gearshift. 6. Remove the screwdriver when the gearshift moves from the P (Park) position.

The console-mounted gearshift will lock when you turn the key to the lock position. When the gearshift is in any position except P (Park), the ignition key cannot be turned to lock or removed from the steering column. To remove the key, the gearshift lever must be in P (Park).

122

Once the gearshift is secure in the desired position, release the brake pedal and use the accelerator as necessary.

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Driving

Driving

Understanding gearshift positions To account for customer driving habits and conditions, your 2.5 l V6
automatic transaxle electronically controls the shift feel by using an adaptive learning strategy. During the first few hundred kilometers (miles) of operation, it is normal for your transaxle to adjust. The adaptive learning strategy is maintained by power from the battery. When the battery is disconnected or a new battery is installed, the transaxle must relearn its adaptive strategy. Optimal shifting will resume within a few hundred kilometers (miles) of operation.

Never leave a vehicle unattended while it is

running.

• P (Park) Always come to a complete stop before shifting into P (Park). This locks the transaxle and prevents the front wheels from rotating.

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

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

R = Reverse . . . . . . . . . . . N = Neutral. . . . . . . . . . . . D = Drive: Gear 1 to 4

with overdrive . . . . . . Gear 1 to 3
with overdrive cancelled . . . . . . . . . . 2 = Gear 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 = Gear 1 . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Driving

• N (Neutral) 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.

• D (Overdrive) Note that the vehicle’s gearshift is console-mounted on the floor. The transaxle control switch (TCS) is located on the gearshift handle. The transaxle control indicator light (O/D light) is located on the instrument panel. Overdrive is not shown on the display, but is the default mode for the D gearshift position. This is the normal driving mode for the best fuel economy. The transaxle operates in gears one through four. The O/D light is off (not illuminated) during normal vehicle operation. Overdrive can be deactivated by pressing the transaxle control switch (TCS) located on the gearshift handle. The O/D OFF indicator light will illuminate in the instrument cluster.

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• D (Drive) D (Drive) provides more engine braking than overdrive and is useful when driving through hilly terrain or if your vehicle requires additional power for climbing hills. Activate by pressing the transaxle control switch (TCS) located on the gearshift handle. The O/D OFF indicator light will illuminate in the instrument cluster. Transaxle operates in gears one through three. To return to overdrive mode, press the transaxle control switch.The O/D OFF indicator light will extinguish. When starting your vehicle, the transaxle will automatically return to normal overdrive mode when the D (Drive) gearshift position is selected.

Driving

TRACTION CONTROL

O/D OFF

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Driving

• 2 (Second) Use the 2 (Second) position to start up on slippery roads or to provide additional braking on downgrades. When your vehicle is in 2 (Second), it automatically starts off in second gear. Do not go faster than 90 km/h (55 mph) in this gear.

• 1 (First) Use the 1 (First) position to provide maximum engine braking on steep downgrades. Upshifts will not occur while the gearshift lever remains in the 1 (First) position. Upshifts may be made by shifting to the 2 (second) position or to D (Drive). Selecting the 1 (First) position at high speeds causes the transaxle to downshift through the gears and will shift to 1 (First) after the vehicle decelerates to the transaxle first gear designed speed. Do not go faster than 60 km/h (38 mph) in this gear.

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Driving

Manual transaxle (if equipped) Vehicles equipped with a manual transaxle have a starter interlock that prevents cranking the engine unless the clutch pedal is fully depressed.

Using the clutch When starting a vehicle with a manual transaxle: 1. Hold down the brake pedal. 2. Depress the clutch pedal. 3. Put the gearshift lever in neutral. 4. Start the vehicle. 5. Put the gearshift in 1 (First) or R (Reverse). 6. Release the clutch slowly while pressing gradually down on the accelerator pedal. Do not drive with your foot resting on the clutch pedal. Do not use the clutch to hold your vehicle at a standstill while waiting on a hill. These actions may reduce the clutch life.

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Driving

Recommended shift speeds

2.0 litre engine 5-speed transaxle

shift speed schedules

Recommended

upshifts:

Shift from First to second Second to third Third to fourth Fourth to fifth

During acceleration:

During cruise*:

km/h

22
40
53
77

mph 14
25
33
48

km/h

19
32
46
64

mph 12
20
29
40

2.5 litre engine 5-speed transaxle

shift speed schedules

Recommended

upshifts:

Shift from First to second Second to third Third to fourth Fourth to fifth

During acceleration:

During cruise*:

km/h

22
40
53
73

mph 14
25
33
45

km/h

16
32
50
64

mph 10
20
31
40

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

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Parking 1. Apply the brake and the clutch and shift into neutral. 2. Engage the parking brake. 3. Shift into 1 (First) or R (Reverse). 4. Turn the ignition off.

Do not park your vehicle in Neutral, it may move

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

Reverse To shift into R (Reverse): 1. Completely stop your vehicle. 2. Depress the clutch pedal to the floor and place the gearshift lever in the neutral position. Do not release the clutch pedal. 3. If the following direction is not followed, a grinding noise may occur. Wait a minimum of three seconds before attempting to shift into R (Reverse) gear.

Driving

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Driving

4. Push the gearshift lever completely to the right, pull up the ring on the stalk of the gearshift lever, and then pull rearward on the gearshift lever to engage the R (Reverse) gear. 5. If the R (Reverse) gear is engaged, slowly release the clutch pedal from the floor.

LOADING YOUR VEHICLE Before loading your vehicle, familiarize yourself with these terms. Base curb weight Weight of the vehicle including any standard equipment, fluids, and lubricants. It does not include passengers or aftermarket equipment.

Payload Combined maximum allowable weight of passengers, cargo, and optional equipment.

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

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Driving

GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) Maximum total weight of the base vehicle, passengers, optional equipment, and cargo. The GVWR is specific to each vehicle and is listed on the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the driver’s door pillar.

GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) Carrying capacity for each axle system (front and rear). The GAWR is specific to each vehicle and is listed on the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the driver’s door pillar.

GCW (Gross Combined Weight) The GCW is the maximum combined weight of the towing vehicle (including passengers and cargo) and the loaded trailer. The GCW is specified by the manufacturer to indicate the combined maximum loaded weight that the vehicle is designed to tow.

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Driving

Payload = GVWR minus Base curb weight To obtain the correct weight for your vehicle, try taking your vehicle to a shipping company or an inspection station for trucks. Do not use replacement tires with lower weight capacities than the originals because they might lower the vehicle’s GVWR and GAWR. (Replacement tires with a higher weight limit than the originals do not increase the GVWR and GAWR limitations.) In high altitudes, engines will lose power at a rate of 3% power per 300 m (1 000 ft) increase in elevation. A reduction in GVW and GCW is recommended for maximum vehicle performance.

Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the Safety Compliance Certification Label.

132

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

-9%

-6%

-3%

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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 For vehicles equipped with 2.0 L engines and automatic transaxles, an auxiliary cooler must be installed prior to trailer towing to protect the power steering and transaxle system. 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). The trailer 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 “Scheduled Maintenance 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

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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 underside 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 located in the power distribution box.

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
— 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 Not used 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
R 32

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 Hego heater control

Location

Driver’s door

— —

Wire shield on instrument panel Steering column Door lock module bracket

Door lock module bracket

—

Near PCM-Module

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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 bracket. 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 vehicle’s 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.

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23CREen 17.6.99 11:11 Uhr Seite 157

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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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.

Recreational towing or having your vehicle towed An example of recreational towing would be towing your vehicle behind a Motorhome. Follow these guidelines if you have the need for recreational towing. These guidelines are designed to ensure that your transaxle is not damgaged. It is not recommended to tow front wheel drive vehicles with the front drive wheels on the ground. It is recommended to tow your vehicle with the drive wheels on a dolly or two wheel car hauling trailer.

Roadside emergencies

Automatic transaxle In case of a roadside emergency with a disabled vehicle (without access to wheel dollies, car hauling trailer or flatbed transport vehicle) your vehicle can be flat towed (all wheels on the ground) under the following conditions. • Place the transaxle in N

(Neutral)

• Do not exceed a distance of 80

km (50 miles).

• Do not exceed 56 km/h (35 mph)

vehicle speed.

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 “Scheduled Maintenance 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 17.6.99 11:15 Uhr Seite 165

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. 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