2003 Ford Crown Victoria Owners Manual

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Illuminated entry The interior lamps illuminate when the remote entry system is used to unlock the door(s) or sound the personal alarm. The system automatically turns off after 25 seconds after the UNLOCK button on the remote transmitter is pressed or when the ignition is turned to the START or ACC position. The dome lamp control (if equipped) must not be set to the OFF position for the illuminated entry system to operate. The inside lights will not turn off if: • they have been turned on with the dimmer control, or • any door is open. The battery saver will shut off the interior lamps 30 minutes after the last door is closed or after 10 minutes if the door is left open.

Autolock (if equipped) This feature automatically locks all vehicle doors when: • all doors are closed, • the ignition is in the ON position, • the brake pedal is depressed, • you shift into any gear. Relock The autolock feature repeats when: • ignition is in RUN • a door is opened and closed • the transmission is placed in reverse (R) or any drive gear, and then • the brake pedal is depressed and then released Deactivating/activating the autolock feature Before following the procedure, make sure that the ignition is OFF and all vehicle doors are closed. Automatic door locks can also be turned on/off through the following procedure: You must complete steps 1-7 within 30 seconds or the procedure will have to be repeated. If the procedure needs to be repeated, you must wait 30 seconds.

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1. Turn the ignition key to ON. 2. Press the power door unlock control on the door panel three times. 3. Turn the ignition key from ON to OFF. 4. Press the power door unlock control three times. 5. Turn the ignition back to ON. 6. The door locks will lock/unlock to confirm programming mode is entered/active. 7. With the ignition still in the ON position, press the unlock control once. After a five to ten second delay, the door will lock/unlock to confirm successful programming. 8. After having waited the necessary time for the programming to confirm, turn the ignition to OFF. Once disabled, the autolock feature can be enabled by repeating the procedure in steps 1–8.

1 2

7 8

5 6

3 4

9 0

without using the key.

KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED) With the keyless entry keypad, you can: • lock or unlock the vehicle doors • open the trunk. • disable/enable autolock. See also Remote entry system in this chapter for more information. Your vehicle has a factory-set 5–digit code that operates the keyless entry system. You can also program your own 5–digit personal entry code. The factory-set code is located: • On the owner’s wallet card in the glove compartment, • Taped to the computer module, or • At your dealer. When using the keyless entry keypad, press the middle of each button in order to ensure a good activation.

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Programming your own entry code 1. Enter the factory-set code (keypad will illuminate when pressed). 2. Press the 1/2 control within five seconds of step 1. 3. Enter your personal 5 digit code. Enter each digit within five seconds of the previous one.

3 4

5 6

7 8

1 2

9 0

All of the vehicle doors will lock and unlock to confirm programming of the new code. Do not set a code that includes five of the same number or presents them in sequential order; these types of codes are easier to figure out. You can program up to three personal codes to unlock your vehicle. These codes do not replace the permanent code that the dealership gave you. Erasing personal code To erase all of the personal entry codes programmed to a vehicle: 1. Enter the factory-set code. 2. Press and release 1/2 within 5
seconds of step 1. 3. Press and hold 1/2 for two seconds. All of the vehicle doors will lock and then unlock to confirm erasure.

9 0

3 4

5 6

7 8

1 2

Unlocking the doors and releasing the trunk with the keyless entry system To unlock the driver door, enter either the factory-set code or personal code (each digit pressed within 5 seconds of prior digit). The interior lamps will illuminate.

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To unlock all doors, enter the factory-set code or personal code (driver door unlocks) and press 3/4
within five seconds.

1 2

3 4

5 6

7 8

9 0

To release the trunk, enter the factory-set code or personal code (driver door unlocks) and press 5/6
within five seconds.

1 2

3 4

5 6

7 8

9 0

After the factory-set code or personal code has been entered, you can unlock all doors (press 3/4) and release the trunk (press 5/6) as long as the controls are pressed within 5 seconds of each other. Locking doors with the keyless entry system It is not necessary to enter the factory-set code prior to locking all doors. To lock the doors: Press 7/8 and 9/0 at the same time.

1 2

3 4

5 6

7 8

9 0

SECURILOCK姟 PASSIVE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM SecuriLock娂 passive anti-theft system is an engine immobilization system. This system is designed to prevent the engine from being started unless a coded key programmed to your vehicle is used. The SecuriLock娂 passive anti-theft system is not compatible with non-Ford aftermarket remote start systems. Use of these systems may result in vehicle starting problems and a loss of security protection. THEFT INDICATOR The theft indicator is the flashing red indicator located on the dash panel.

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Locks and Security • When the ignition is in the OFF position, the indicator will flash once every 2 seconds to indicate the SecuriLock娂 system is functioning as a theft deterrent. • When the ignition is in the ON position, the indicator will glow for 3

seconds to indicate normal system functionality.

If a problem occurs with the SecuriLock娂 system, the indicator will flash rapidly or glow steadily when the ignition is in the ON position. If this occurs, the vehicle should be taken to an authorized dealer for service.

Automatic arming The vehicle is armed immediately after switching the ignition to the 3
(OFF) or 2 (LOCK) position. The indicator on the instrument panel will flash every two seconds when the vehicle is armed.

Automatic disarming Switching the ignition to the 4 (ON) position with a coded key disarms the vehicle. The indicator on the instrument will illuminate for three seconds and then go out. If the indicator stays on for an extended period of time or flashes rapidly, have the system serviced by your dealership or a qualified technician.

Key information Your vehicle is supplied with two coded keys (or three, if your vehicle is equipped with the valet feature). Only a coded key will start your vehicle. Spare coded keys can be purchased from your dealership. Your dealership can program your key or you can “do it yourself.” Refer to Programming spare keys. The following items may prevent the vehicle from starting: • Large metallic objects • Electronic devices on the key chain that can be used to purchase • A second key on the same key ring as the coded key

gasoline or similar items

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If any of these items are present, you need to keep these objects from touching the coded key while starting the engine. These objects and devices cannot damage the coded key, but can cause a momentary “no start” condition if they are too close to the key during engine start. If a problem occurs, turn ignition OFF and restart the engine with all other objects on the key ring held away from the ignition key. Check to make sure the coded key is an approved Ford coded key. If your keys are lost or stolen you will need to do the following: • Use your spare key to start the vehicle, or • Have your vehicle towed to a dealership or a locksmith. The key codes will need to be erased from your vehicle and new key codes will need to be re-coded.

Replacing coded keys can be very costly and you may want to store an extra programmed key away from the vehicle in a safe place to prevent an unforeseen inconvenience. The correct coded key must be used for your vehicle. The use of the wrong type of coded key may lead to a “no start” condition. If an unprogrammed key is used in the ignition it will cause a “no start” condition.

Programming spare keys A maximum of eight keys can be coded to your vehicle. Only SecuriLock娂 keys can be used. To program a coded key yourself, you will need two previously programmed coded keys (keys that already operate your vehicle’s engine) and the new unprogrammed key(s) readily accessible for timely implementation of each step in the procedure. If two previously programmed coded keys are not available, you must bring your vehicle to your dealership to have the spare coded key(s) programmed. Please read and understand the entire procedure before you begin.

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1. Insert the first previously programmed coded key into the ignition and turn the ignition from 3
(OFF) to 4 (ON) (maintain ignition in 4 (ON) for at least one second). 2. Turn ignition to 3 (OFF) then 2
(LOCK) and remove the first coded key from the ignition. 3. Within ten seconds of removing the first coded key, insert the second previously programmed coded key into the ignition and turn the ignition from 3 (OFF) to 4 (ON) (maintain ignition in 4 (ON) for at least one second but no more than ten seconds). 4. Turn the ignition to 3 (OFF) then 2 (LOCK) and remove the second coded key from the ignition. 5. Within twenty seconds of removing the second coded key, insert the new unprogrammed key (new key) into the ignition and turn the ignition from 3 (OFF) to 4 (ON) (maintain ignition in 4 (ON) for at least one second). This step will program your new key. 6. To program additional new unprogrammed key(s), repeat this procedure from step 1. If successful, the new coded key(s) will start the vehicle’s engine and the theft indicator will illuminate for three seconds and then go out. If not successful, the new coded key(s) will not start the vehicle’s engine and the theft indicator will flash on and off. You may repeat steps 1
through 6. If failure repeats, bring your vehicle to your dealership to have the new spare key(s) programmed.

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Seating and Safety Restraints

SEATING

Adjustable head restraints Your vehicle’s seats are equipped with head restraints which are vertically adjustable. The purpose of these head restraints is to help limit head motion in the event of a rear collision. To properly adjust your head restraints, lift the head restraint so that it is located directly behind your head or as close to that position as possible. Refer to the following to raise and lower the head restraints. The head restraints can be moved up and down.

Push control to lower head restraint.

Adjusting the front manual seat

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

Always drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lap belt snug and low across the hips.

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Lift handle to move seat forward or backward.

Pull lever up to adjust seatback.

Using the manual recline function (if equipped)

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

Do not pile cargo higher than the seatbacks to avoid injuring people in a collision or sudden stop.

Always drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lap belt snug and low across the hips.

Reclining the seatback can cause an occupant to slide under the seat’s safety belt, resulting in severe personal injuries in the

event of a collision.

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To adjust the front seatback using the manual recliner: • Lift and hold the handle located • Lean against the seatback to

on the side of the seat.

adjust it to your desired position. You can recline the seat back or bring it forward.

• Release the handle when the desired position has been reached. Using the power lumbar support (if equipped) The power lumbar control is located on the outboard side of the seat. Press one side of the control to adjust firmness. Press the other side of the control to adjust softness. Heated seats (if equipped) To operate the heated seats: • Push the indicated side of the control for maximum heat. • Push again to deactivate.

• Push the indicated side of the control for minimum heat. • Push again to deactivate.

The heated seat module resets at every ignition run cycle. While the ignition is in the run position, activating the high or low heated seat switch enables heating mode. When activated, they will turn off automatically when the ignition is turned to the OFF position.

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The indicator light will illuminate when the heated seats have been activated.

Adjusting the power front seats – door mounted controls The controls for the power seats are located on the inside of each front door.

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

Do not pile cargo higher than the seatbacks to avoid injuring people in a collision or sudden stop.

Always drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lap belt snug and low across the hips.

Reclining the seatback can cause an occupant to slide under the seat’s safety belt, resulting in severe personal injuries in the

event of a collision.

Press the control to recline the seatback forward or backward.

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Press to move the seat forward or backward.

Press to move the front portion of the seat cushion up or down.

Press to move the rear portion of the seat cushion up or down.

SAFETY RESTRAINTS

Personal Safety System The Personal Safety System provides an improved overall level of frontal crash protection to front seat occupants and is designed to help further reduce the risk of air bag-related injuries. The system is able to analyze different occupant conditions and crash severity before activating the appropriate safety devices to help better protect a range of occupants in a variety of frontal crash situations.

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Your vehicle’s Personal Safety System consists of the following items: • Driver and passenger dual-stage air bag supplemental restraints • Driver and front passenger side air bags (if equipped) • Front safety belts with pretensioners, energy management retractors, and safety belt usage sensors • Driver’s seat position sensor • Passenger occupant classification sensor • Front crash severity sensor • Restraints Control Module (RCM) with impact and safing sensors • Restraint system warning light and back-up tone • The electrical wiring for the air bags, crash sensor(s), safety belt pretensioners, front safety belt usage sensors, driver seat position sensor, passenger occupant classification sensor, and indicator lights

How does the personal safety system work? The Personal safety system can adapt the deployment strategy of your vehicle’s safety devices according to crash severity and occupant conditions. A collection of crash and occupant sensors provides information to the Restraints control module (RCM). During a crash, the RCM activates the safety belt pretensioners and/or either one or both stages of the dual-stage air bag supplemental restraints based on crash severity and occupant conditions. The fact that the pretensioners or air bags did not activate for both front seat occupants in a collision does not mean that something is wrong with the system. Rather, it means the Personal safety system determined the accident conditions (crash severity, belt usage, etc.) were not appropriate to activate these safety devices. Front air bags and pretensioners are designed to activate only in frontal and near-frontal collisions, not rollovers, side-impacts, or rear-impacts unless the collision causes sufficient longitudinal deceleration. Driver and passenger dual-stage air bag supplemental restraints The dual-stage air bags offer the capability to tailor the level of air bag inflation energy. A lower, less forceful energy level is provided for more common, moderate-severity impacts. A higher energy level is used for the most severe impacts. Refer to Air bag supplemental restraints section in this chapter. Front crash severity sensor The front crash severity sensor enhances the ability to detect the severity of an impact. Positioned up front, it provides valuable

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information early in the crash event on the severity of the impact. This allows your Personal safety system to distinguish between different levels of crash severity and modify the deployment strategy of the dual-stage air bags and safety belt pretensioners. Driver’s seat position sensor The driver’s seat position sensor allows your Personal safety system to tailor the deployment level of the driver dual-stage air bag based on seat position. The system is designed to help protect smaller drivers sitting close to the driver air bag by providing a lower air bag output level. Passenger occupant classification sensor (OCS) For air bags to do their job they must inflate with great force, and this force can pose a potentially deadly risk to occupants that are very close to the air bag when it begins to inflate. For some occupants, this occurs because they are initially sitting very close to the air bag. For other occupants, this occurs when the occupant is not properly restrained by seat belts or child safety seats and they move forward during pre-crash braking. The most effective way to reduce the risk of unnecessary injuries is to make sure all occupants are properly restrained. Accident statistics suggest that children are much safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front.

Air bags can kill or injure a child in a child seat. NEVER place a rear-facing child seat in front of an active air bag. If you must

use a forward-facing child seat in the front seat, move the seat all the way back.

Always transport children 12 years old and under in the back seat and always properly use appropriate child restraints.

The passenger occupant classification sensor can automatically turn off the passenger front air bag and side air bag (if equipped). The system is designed to help protect small (child size) occupants from air bag deployments when they are improperly seated or restrained in the front passenger seat contrary to proper child-seating or restraint usage recommendations. Even with this technology, parents are STRONGLY encouraged to always properly restrain children in the rear seat. The sensor also turns off the air bag(s) when the passenger seat is empty to prevent unnecessary replacement of the air bag(s) after a collision. Front safety belt usage sensors The front safety belt usage sensors detect whether or not the driver and front outboard passenger safety belts are fastened. This information

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allows your Personal safety system to tailor the air bag deployment and safety belt pretensioner activation depending upon safety belt usage. Refer to Safety belt section in this chapter. Front safety belt pretensioners The safety belt pretensioners at the front outboard seating positions are designed to tighten the safety belts firmly against the occupant’s body during a frontal or near-frontal collision. This maximizes the effectiveness of the safety belts and helps properly position the occupant relative to the air bag to improve protection. The safety belt pretensioners can be either activated alone or, if the collision is of sufficient severity, together with the air bags. Front safety belt energy management retractors The front safety belt energy management retractors allow webbing to be pulled out of the retractor in a gradual and controlled manner in response to the occupant’s forward momentum. This helps reduce the risk of force-related injuries to the occupant’s chest by limiting the load on the occupant. Refer to Energy management feature section in this chapter. Determining if the Personal safety system is operational The Personal safety system uses a warning light in the instrument cluster or a back-up tone to indicate the condition of the system. Refer to the Warning light section in the Instrument cluster chapter. Routine maintenance of the Personal safety system is not required. The Restraints control module (RCM) monitors its own internal circuits and the circuits for the air bag supplemental restraints, crash sensor(s), safety belt pretensioners, front safety belt buckle sensors, driver seat position sensor, and passenger occupant classification sensor. In addition, the RCM also monitors the restraints warning light in the instrument cluster. A difficulty with the system is indicated by one or more of the following. • The warning light will either flash or stay lit. • The warning light will not illuminate immediately after ignition is • A series of five beeps will be heard. The tone pattern will repeat

turned on.

periodically until the problem and warning light are repaired.

If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the Personal safety system serviced at your dealership or by a qualified technician immediately. Unless serviced, the system may not function properly in the event of a collision.

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Safety restraints precautions

Always drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lap belt snug and low across the hips.

To reduce the risk of injury, make sure children sit where they can be properly restrained.

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.

All occupants of the vehicle, including the driver, should always properly wear their safety belts, even when an air bag (SRS) is

provided.

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.

In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is significantly more likely to die than a person wearing a safety belt.

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 the safety belt around your neck over the inside shoulder. 3) Never use a single belt for more than one person.

Always transport children 12 years old and under in the back seat and always properly use appropriate child restraints.

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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.

Combination lap and shoulder belts 1. Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle (the buckle closest to the direction the tongue is coming from) until you hear a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the tongue is securely fastened in the buckle.

2. To unfasten, push the release button and remove the tongue from the buckle.

Energy management feature • This vehicle has a seat belt system with an energy management

feature at the front outboard seating positions to help further reduce the risk of injury in the event of a head-on collision. • This seat belt system has a retractor assembly that is designed to pay out webbing in a controlled manner. This feature is designed to help reduce the belt force acting on the occupant’s chest.

The front outboard and rear safety restraints in the vehicle are combination lap and shoulder belts. The front outboard passenger and rear seat safety belts have three types of locking modes described below: Vehicle sensitive mode This is the normal retractor mode, which allows free shoulder belt length adjustment to your movements and locking in response to vehicle

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movement. For example, if the driver brakes suddenly or turns a corner sharply, or the vehicle receives an impact of approximately 8 km/h (5 mph) or more, the combination safety belts will lock to help reduce forward movement of the driver and passengers. Webbing extraction sensitive mode The webbing extraction sensitive mode stops the belt webbing from retracting if it is pulled out too quickly.

Automatic locking mode In this mode, the shoulder belt is pre-locked. The belt will still retract to remove any slack in the shoulder belt. The automatic locking mode is not available on the driver safety belt. When to use the automatic locking mode • Any time a child safety seat is installed in a passenger front outboard or any rear seating position. Children 12 years old and under should be properly restrained in the rear seat whenever possible. Refer to Safety Restraints for Children or Safety Seats for Children later in this chapter.

How to use the automatic locking mode • Buckle the combination lap and

shoulder belt.

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• Grasp the shoulder portion and pull downward until the entire belt is pulled out.

• Allow the belt to retract. As the belt retracts, you will hear a clicking sound. This indicates the safety belt is now in the automatic locking mode.

How to disengage the automatic locking mode

Ford Motor Company recommends that all passenger safety belt assemblies and attaching hardware should be inspected by a qualified technician after any collision to verify that the ⬙automatic locking retractor⬙ feature for child seats is still working properly. Safety belt assemblies should be inspected according to the procedures in the Workshop Manual and replaced if either damage or improper operation is noted. Failure to replace the belt and retractor assembly could increase the risk of injury in a collision.

Unbuckle the combination lap/shoulder belt and allow it to retract completely to disengage the automatic locking mode and activate the vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking mode.

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Front safety belt height adjustment Your vehicle has safety belt height adjustments for the driver and front outboard passenger. Adjust the height of the shoulder belt so the belt rests across the middle of your shoulder. To lower the shoulder belt height, push the button and slide the height adjuster down. To raise the height of the shoulder belt, push the button and slide the height adjuster up. Pull down on the height adjuster to make sure it is locked in place.

Position the safety belt height adjusters so that the

belt rests across the middle of your shoulder. Failure to adjust the safety belt properly could reduce the effectiveness of the seat belt and increase the risk of injury in a collision.

Lap belts

Adjusting the front center seat lap belt

The lap belt should fit snugly and as low as possible around the hips, not across the waist.

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The lap belt does not adjust automatically. Insert the tongue into the correct buckle (the buckle closest to the direction the tongue is coming from). To lengthen the belt, turn the tongue at a right angle to the belt and pull across your lap until it reaches the buckle. To tighten the belt, pull the loose end of the belt through the tongue until it fits snugly across the hips.

Shorten and fasten the belt when not in use.

Safety belt warning light and indicator chime The safety belt warning light illuminates in the instrument cluster and a chime sounds to remind the occupants to fasten their safety belts.

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Conditions of operation If... The driver’s safety belt is not buckled before the ignition switch is turned to the ON position...

The driver’s safety belt is buckled while the indicator light is illuminated and the warning chime is sounding... The driver’s safety belt is buckled before the ignition switch is turned to the ON position...

Then... The safety belt warning light illuminates 1-2 minutes and the warning chime sounds 4-8
seconds. The safety belt warning light and warning chime turn off.

The safety belt warning light and indicator chime remain off.

BeltMinder The BeltMinder feature is a supplemental warning to the safety belt warning function. This feature provides additional reminders by intermittently sounding a chime and illuminating the safety belt warning lamp in the instrument cluster when the driver’s safety belt is unbuckled. The BeltMinder feature uses information from the passenger occupant classification sensor to determine if a front seat passenger is present and therefore potentially in need of a warning. To avoid activating the BeltMinder feature for objects placed in the front passenger seat, warnings will only be given to large front seat occupants as determined by the passenger occupant classification sensor. Both the driver’s and passenger’s safety belt usages are monitored and either may activate the BeltMinder feature. The warnings are the same for the driver and the front passenger. If the BeltMinder warnings have expired (warnings for approximately 5 minutes) for one occupant (driver or front passenger), the other occupant can still activate the BeltMinder feature.

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Then... The BeltMinder feature will not activate.

If... The driver’s and front passenger’s safety belts are buckled before the ignition switch is turned to the ON position or less than 1-2 minutes have elapsed since the ignition switch has been turned ON... The driver’s or front passenger’s safety belt is not buckled when the vehicle has reached at least 5 km/h (3 mph) and 1-2 minutes have elapsed since the ignition switch has been turned to ON...

The BeltMinder feature is activated - the safety belt warning light illuminates and the warning chime sounds for 6 seconds every 30 seconds, repeating for approximately 5 minutes or until the safety belts are buckled. The BeltMinder feature is activated - the safety belt warning light illuminates and the warning chime sounds for 6 seconds every 30 seconds, repeating for approximately 5 minutes or until the safety belts are buckled.

The driver’s or front passenger’s safety belt becomes unbuckled for approximately 1 minute while the vehicle is traveling at least 5 km/h (3 mph) and more than 1-2
minutes have elapsed since the ignition switch has been turned to ON... The following are reasons most often given for not wearing safety belts: (All statistics based on U.S. data) Reasons given... Consider... “Crashes are rare events”

36700 crashes occur every day. The more we drive, the more we are exposed to “rare” events, even for good drivers. 1 in 4 of us will be seriously injured in a crash during our lifetime.

“I’m not going far” 3 of 4 fatal crashes occur within 25 miles of home.

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Reasons given... Consider... “Belts are uncomfortable”

We design our safety belts to enhance comfort. If you are uncomfortable - try different positions for the safety belt upper anchorage and seatback which should be as upright as possible; this can improve comfort.

“I was in a hurry” Prime time for an accident. BeltMinder reminds

“Safety belts don’t work”

“Traffic is light”

“Belts wrinkle my clothes”

“The people I’m with don’t wear belts”

us to take a few seconds to buckle up. Safety belts, when used properly, reduce risk of death to front seat occupants by 45% in cars, and by 60% in light trucks. Nearly 1 of 2 deaths occur in single-vehicle crashes, many when no other vehicles are around. Possibly, but a serious crash can do much more than wrinkle your clothes, particularly if you are unbelted. Set the example, teen deaths occur 4 times more often in vehicles with TWO or MORE people. Children and younger brothers/sisters imitate behavior they see.

“I have an air bag” Air bags offer greater protection when used with safety belts. Frontal airbags are not designed to inflate in rear and side crashes or rollovers. Not a good idea. People who are ejected are 40
times more likely to DIE. Safety belts help prevent ejection, WE CAN’T “PICK OUR CRASH”.

“I’d rather be thrown clear”

Do not sit on top of a buckled safety belt to avoid the Belt Minder chime. Sitting on the safety belt will increase the risk of

injury in an accident. To disable (one-time) or deactivate the Belt Minder feature please follow the directions stated below.

One time disable If at any time the driver/front passenger quickly buckles then unbuckles, the BeltMinder feature for that seating position is disabled for the current ignition cycle. The BeltMinder feature will re-enable during the

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same ignition cycle if the occupant buckles and remains buckled for approximately 30 seconds. Confirmation is not given for the one time disable. Deactivating/activating the BeltMinder feature The driver and front passenger BeltMinder are deactivated/activated independently. When deactivating/activating one seating position, do not buckle the other position as this will terminate the process. Read steps 1 - 4 thoroughly before proceeding with the deactivation/activation programming procedure. The driver and front passenger BeltMinder features can be deactivated/activated by performing the following procedure: Before following the procedure, make sure that: • The parking brake is set • The gearshift is in P (Park) (automatic transmission) • The ignition switch is in the OFF position • The driver and front passenger safety belts are unbuckled

To reduce the risk of injury, do not deactivate/activate the Belt Minder feature while driving the vehicle.

1. Turn the ignition switch to the RUN (or ON) position. (DO NOT START THE ENGINE) 2. Wait until the safety belt warning light turns off. (Approximately 1
minute) • Step 3 must be completed within 50 seconds after the safety belt

warning light turns off.

3. For the seating position being disabled, buckle then unbuckle the safety belt 9 times, ending in the unbuckled state. (Step 3 must be completed within 50 seconds after the safety belt warning light turns off.) • After step 3, the restraint system warning light (airbag light) will be

turned on for three seconds.

4. Within 10 seconds of the light turning on, buckle then unbuckle the safety belt. • This will disable the BeltMinder feature for that seating position if it is currently enabled. As confirmation, the restraint system warning light will flash 4 times per second for 3 seconds.

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Seating and Safety Restraints • This will enable the BeltMinder feature for that seating position if it is currently disabled. As confirmation, the restraint system warning light will flash 4 times per second for 3 seconds, followed by 3 seconds with the light off, then followed by the restraint system warning light flashing 4 times per second for 3 seconds again.

Safety belt extension assembly If the safety belt is too short when fully extended, there is a 20 cm (8 inch) safety belt extension assembly that can be added (part number 611C22). This assembly can be obtained from your dealer at no cost. 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 extensions to change the fit of the shoulder belt across the torso.

Safety belt maintenance Inspect the safety belt systems periodically to make sure they work properly and are not damaged. Inspect the safety belts to make sure there are no nicks, tears or cuts. Replace if necessary. All safety belt assemblies, including retractors, buckles, front seat belt buckle assemblies, buckle support assemblies (slide bar-if equipped), shoulder belt height adjusters (if equipped), shoulder belt guide on seatback (if equipped), child safety seat LATCH and tether anchors, and attaching hardware, should be inspected after a collision. Ford Motor Company 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.

Failure to inspect and if necessary replace the safety belt assembly under the above conditions could result in severe

personal injuries in the event of a collision.

Refer to Interior in the Cleaning chapter.

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AIR BAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)

Important SRS precautions The SRS is designed to work with the safety belt to help protect the driver and right front passenger from certain upper body injuries. Air bags DO NOT inflate slowly; there is a risk of injury from a deploying air bag.

All occupants of the vehicle, including the driver, should always properly wear their safety belts, even when an air bag (SRS) is

provided.

Always transport children 12 years old and under in the back seat and always properly use appropriate child restraints.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends a minimum distance of at least 25 cm (10 inches)

between an occupant’s chest and the driver air bag module.

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Never place your arm over the air bag module as a deploying air bag can result in serious arm fractures or other injuries.

To properly position yourself away from the air bag: • Move your seat to the rear as far as you can while still reaching the • Recline the seat slightly one or two degrees from the upright position.

pedals comfortably.

Do not put anything on or over the air bag module. Placing objects on or over the air bag inflation area may cause those

objects to be propelled by the air bag into your face and torso causing serious injury.

Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the air bag supplemental restraint systems or its fuses. See your Ford or

Lincoln Mercury dealer.

The front passenger air bag is not designed to offer protection to an occupant in the center front seating position.

Modifying or adding equipment to the front end of the vehicle (including frame, bumper, front end body structure and tow

hooks) may affect the performance of the air bag system, increasing the risk of injury. Do not modify the front end of the vehicle.

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Children and air bags Children must always be properly restrained. Accident statistics suggest that children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating position. Failure to follow these instructions may increase the risk of injury in a collision.

Air bags can kill or injure a child in a child seat.

NEVER place a rear-facing child seat in front of an active air bag. If you must use a forward-facing child seat in the front seat, move the seat all the way back.

How does the air bag supplemental restraint system work? The air bag SRS is designed to activate when the vehicle sustains longitudinal deceleration sufficient to cause the sensors to close an electrical circuit that initiates air bag inflation. 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. Driver and passenger airbags are designed to inflate in frontal and near-frontal collisions, not rollover, side-impact, or rear-impacts unless the collision causes sufficient longitudinal deceleration.

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The air bags inflate and deflate rapidly upon activation. After air bag deployment, it is normal to notice a smoke-like, powdery residue or smell the burnt propellant. This may consist of cornstarch, talcum powder (to lubricate the bag) or sodium compounds (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. While the system is designed to help reduce serious injuries, contact with a deploying air bag may also cause abrasions, swelling or temporary hearing loss. Because air bags must inflate rapidly and with considerable force, there is the risk of death or serious injuries such as fractures, facial and eye injuries or internal injuries, particularly to occupants who are not properly restrained or are otherwise out of position at the time of air bag deployment. Thus, it is extremely important that occupants be properly restrained as far away from the air bag module as possible while maintaining vehicle control. The SRS consists of the following items: • Driver and passenger air bag modules (which include the inflators and • Driver and passenger side air bags • One or more impact and safing sensors • A readiness light and tone • A diagnostic module • The electrical wiring which connects the components The diagnostic module monitors its own internal circuits as well as the supplemental air bag electrical system warning (including the impact sensors), the system wiring, the air bag system readiness light, the air bag back up power and the air bag ignitors.

air bags)

Several air bag system components get hot after inflation. Do not touch them after inflation.

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If the air bag has deployed, the air bag will not function again and must be replaced immediately. If the air bag is not

replaced, the unrepaired area will increase the risk of injury in a collision.

If the safety belt pretensioners deploy in an accident, they will not function again ( belt will not extract or retract) and must be

replaced immediately. Failure to replace the retractor assemblies will increase the risk of injury.

Determining if the system is operational The SRS uses a readiness light in the instrument cluster or a tone to indicate the condition of the system. Refer to Air bag readiness section in the Instrument cluster chapter. Routine maintenance of the air bag is not required. A difficulty with the system is indicated by one or more of the following: • The readiness light will either • The readiness light will not illuminate immediately after ignition is turned on.

• A series of five beeps will be heard. The tone pattern will repeat

flash or stay lit.

AIR BAG

periodically until the problem and/or light are repaired.

If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the SRS serviced at your dealership or by a qualified technician immediately. Unless serviced, the system may not function properly in the event of a collision.

Side air bag system (if equipped)

Do not place objects or mount equipment on or near the air bag cover on the side of the seatbacks of the front seats or in front

seat areas that may come into contact with a deploying air bag. Failure to follow these instructions may increase the risk of personal injury in the event of a collision.

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Do not use accessory seat covers. The use of accessory seat covers may prevent the deployment of the side air bags and

increase the risk of injury in an accident.

Do not lean your head on the door. The side air bag could injure you as it deploys from the side of the seatback.

Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the air bag SRS, its fuses or the seat cover on a seat containing an air bag. See your

Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealer.

All occupants of the vehicle should always wear their safety belts even when an air bag SRS is provided.

How does the side air bag system work? The design and development of the side airbag system included recommended testing procedures that were developed by a group of automotive safety experts known as the Side Airbag Technical Working Group. These recommended testing procedures help reduce the risk of injuries related to the deployment of side airbags. The side air bag system consists of the following: • An inflatable nylon bag (air bag) with a gas generator concealed behind the outboard bolster of the driver and front passenger seatbacks.

• A special seat cover designed to allow airbag deployment. • The same warning light, electronic control and diagnostic unit as used • Two crash sensors. Side air bags, in combination with seat belts, can help reduce the risk of severe injuries in the event of a significant side impact collision.

for the front air bags.

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The side air bags are fitted on the outboard side of the seatbacks of the front seats. In certain lateral collisions, the air bag on the side affected by the collision will be inflated. The air bag was designed to inflate between the door panel and occupant to further enhance the protection provided occupants in side impact collisions. The air bag SRS is designed to activate when the vehicle sustains lateral deceleration sufficient to cause the sensors to close an electrical circuit that initiates air bag inflation. 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. Side air bags are designed to inflate in side-impact collisions, not roll-over, rear-impact, frontal or near-frontal collisions, unless the collision causes sufficient lateral deceleration.

Several air bag system components get hot after

inflation. Do not touch them after inflation.

If the side air bag has deployed, the air bag will not function again. The side air bag system (including the seat) must

be inspected and serviced by a qualified technician in accordance with the vehicle service manual. If the air bag is not replaced, the unrepaired area will increase the risk of injury in a collision.

Determining if the system is operational The SRS uses a readiness light in the instrument cluster or a tone to indicate the condition of the system. Refer to the Air bag readiness section in the Instrument cluster chapter. Routine maintenance of the side air bag is not required. A difficulty with the system is indicated by one or more of the following: • The readiness light (same light as for front air bag system) will either

flash or stay lit.

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Seating and Safety Restraints • The readiness light will not illuminate immediately after ignition is • A series of five beeps will be heard. The tone pattern will repeat

turned on.

periodically until the problem and/or light are repaired.

If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the SRS serviced at your dealership or by a qualified technician immediately. Unless serviced, the system may not function properly in the event of a collision.

Disposal of air bags and air bag equipped vehicles (including pretensioners) See your local dealership or qualified technician. Air bags MUST BE disposed of by qualified personnel.

SAFETY RESTRAINTS FOR CHILDREN See the following sections for directions on how to properly use safety restraints for children. Also see Air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) in this chapter for special instructions about using air bags.

Important child restraint precautions You are required by law to use safety restraints for children in the U.S. and Canada. If small children (generally children who are four years old or younger and who weigh 18 kg [40 lbs] or less) ride in your vehicle, you must put them in safety seats made especially for children. Check your local and state or provincial laws for specific requirements regarding the safety of children in your vehicle. When possible, always place children under age 12 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 position.

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.

Always follow the instructions and warnings that come with any infant or child restraint you might use.

Children and safety belts If the child is the proper size, restrain the child in a safety seat. Children who are too large for child safety seats (as specified by your child safety seat manufacturer) should always wear safety belts.

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Follow all the important safety restraint and air bag precautions that apply to adult passengers in your vehicle. If the shoulder belt portion of a combination lap and shoulder belt can be positioned so it does not cross or rest in front of the child’s face or neck, the child should wear the lap and shoulder belt. Moving the child closer to the center of the vehicle may help provide a good shoulder belt fit.

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

Child booster seats Children outgrow a typical convertible or toddler seat when they weigh 40 pounds and are around 4 years of age. Although the lap/shoulder belt will provide some protection, these children are still too small for lap/shoulder belts to fit properly, which could increase the risk of serious injury. To improve the fit of both the lap and shoulder belt on children who have outgrown child safety seats, Ford Motor Company recommends use of a belt-positioning booster. Booster seats position a child so that safety belts fit better. They lift the child up so that the lap belt rests low across the hips and the knees bend comfortably. Booster seats also make the shoulder belt fit better and more comfortably for growing children. When children should use booster seats Children need to use booster seats from the time they outgrow the toddler seat until they are big enough for the vehicle seat and lap/shoulder belt to fit properly. Generally this is when they weigh about 80 lbs (about 8 to 12 years old). Booster seats should be used until you can answer YES to ALL of these questions: • Can the child sit all the way back against the vehicle seat back with knees bent comfortably at the edge of the seat without slouching?

• Does the lap belt rest low across the hips?

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Seating and Safety Restraints • Is the shoulder belt centered on the shoulder and chest? • Can the child stay seated like this for the whole trip? Types of booster seats There are two types of belt-positioning booster seats: • Those that are backless.

If your backless booster seat has a removable shield, remove the shield and use the lap/shoulder belt. If a seating position has a low seat back and no head restraint, a backless booster seat may place your child’s head (top of ear level) above the top of the seat. In this case, move the backless booster to another seating position with a higher seat back and lap/shoulder belts.

• Those with a high back.

If, with a backless booster seat, you cannot find a seating position that adequately supports your child’s head, a high back booster seat would be a better choice.

Both can be used in any vehicle in a seating position equipped with lap/shoulder belts if your child is over 40 lbs. The shoulder belt should cross the chest, resting snugly on the center of the shoulder. The lap belt should rest low and snug across the hips, never up high across the stomach. If the booster seat slides on the vehicle seat, placing a rubberized mesh sold as shelf or carpet liner under the booster seat may improve this condition. The importance of shoulder belts Using a booster without a shoulder belt increases the risk of a child’s head hitting a hard surface in a collision. For this reason, you should

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never use a booster seat with a lap belt only. It is best to use a booster seat with lap/shoulder belts in the back seat- the safest place for children to ride.

Follow all instructions provided by the manufacturer of the booster seat.

Never put the shoulder belt under a child’s arm or behind the back because it eliminates the protection for the upper part of

the body and may increase the risk of injury or death in a collision.

Never use pillows, books, or towels to boost a child. They can slide around and increase the likelihood of injury or death in a

collision.

SAFETY SEATS FOR CHILDREN

Child and infant or child safety seats Use a safety seat that is recommended for the size and weight of the child. Carefully follow all of the manufacturer’s instructions 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.

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When installing a child safety seat: • Review and follow the information

presented in the Air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) section in this chapter. • Use the correct safety belt buckle for that seating position (the buckle closest to the direction the tongue is coming from).

• Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle until you hear a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the tongue is securely fastened in the buckle. • Keep the buckle release button pointing up and away from the safety seat, with the tongue between the child seat and the release button, to prevent accidental unbuckling. • Place seat back in upright position. • Put the safety belt in the automatic locking mode. Refer to Automatic

locking mode (passenger side front and outboard rear seating positions) (if equipped) section in this chapter.

Ford recommends the use of a child safety seat having a top tether strap. Install the child safety seat in a seating position with a tether anchor. For more information on top tether straps, refer to Attaching child safety seats with tether straps in this chapter.

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.

Rear-facing child seats or infant carriers should never be placed in the front seats.

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Installing child safety seats with combination lap and shoulder belts

Air bags can kill or injure a child in a child seat. NEVER place a rear-facing child seat in front of an active air bag. If you must

use a forward-facing child seat in the front seat, move the seat all the way back.

Children 12 and under should be properly restrained in the rear seat whenever possible.

1. Position the child safety seat in a seat with a combination lap and shoulder belt.

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

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3. While holding the shoulder and lap belt 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.

4. Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle (the buckle closest to the direction the tongue is coming from) for that seating position until you hear a snap and feel the latch engage. Make sure the tongue is latched securely by pulling on it.

5. To put the retractor in the automatic locking mode, grasp the shoulder portion of the belt and pull downward until all of the belt is pulled out and a click is heard.

6. Allow the belt to retract. The belt will click as it retracts to indicate it is in the automatic locking mode.

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7. Pull the lap belt portion across the child seat toward the buckle and pull up on the shoulder belt while pushing down with your knee on the child seat.

8. Allow the safety belt to retract to remove any slack in the belt. 9. Before placing the child in the seat, forcibly move the seat forward and back to make sure the seat is securely held in place. To check this, grab the seat at the belt path and attempt to move it side to side and forward. There should be no more than one inch of movement for proper installation. 10. Try to pull the belt out of the retractor to make sure the retractor is in the automatic locking mode (you should not be able to pull more belt out). If the retractor is not locked, unbuckle the belt and repeat steps two through nine. Check to make sure the child seat is properly secured before each use.

Attaching child safety seats with tether straps Most new forward-facing child safety seats include a tether strap which goes over the back of the seat and hooks to an anchoring point. Tether straps are available as an accessory for many older safety seats. Contact the manufacturer of your child seat for information about ordering a tether strap. The rear seats of your vehicle are equipped with built-in tether strap anchors located behind the seats as described below. The tether anchors in your vehicle are located under a cover marked with the tether anchor symbol (shown with title).

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The tether strap anchors in your vehicle are in the following positions (shown from top view):

Attach the tether strap only to the appropriate tether anchor as shown. The tether strap may not work properly if attached

somewhere other than the correct tether anchor.

1. Position the child safety seat on the seat cushion. 2. Route the child safety seat tether strap over the back of the seat. For vehicles with adjustable head restraints, route the tether strap under the head restraint and between the head restraint posts, otherwise route the tether strap over the top of the seatback. 3. Locate the correct anchor for the selected seating position.

4. Open the tether anchor cover.

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5. Clip the tether strap to the anchor as shown.

If the tether strap is clipped incorrectly, the child safety seat may not be retained properly in the event of a collision.

6. Refer to the Installing child safety seats with combination lap and shoulder belts section of this chapter for further instructions to secure the child safety seat. 7. Tighten the child safety seat tether strap according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

If the safety seat is not anchored properly, the risk of a child being injured in a collision greatly increases.

Attaching safety seats with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) attachments Some child safety seats have two rigid or webbing mounted attachments that connect to two anchors at certain seating positions in your vehicle. This type of child seat eliminates the need to use seat belts to attach the child seat. For forward-facing child seats, the tether strap must also be attached to the proper tether anchor. See Attaching safety seats with tether straps in this chapter. Your vehicle has LATCH anchors for child seat installation at the seating positions marked with the child seat symbol.

The anchors on both sides of the center of the rear seat are provided for child seats at the outboard seats, and are further apart than the pairs of lower anchors for child seat installation at other seats. DO NOT install child seats with LATCH attachments (rigid or mounted on belt webbing) to the lower anchors at the center rear seat. If you install a child seat at the center rear position, use the vehicle belt and the top tether anchor.

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Never attach two LATCH child safety seats to the same anchor. In a crash, one anchor may not be strong enough to hold two

child safety seat attachments and may break, causing serious injury or death.

The lower anchors for child seat installation are located at the rear section of the rear seat between the cushion and seat back. The LATCH anchors are below the locator symbols on the seat back. Follow the child seat manufacturer’s instructions to properly install a child seat with LATCH attachments. Two plastic LATCH guides can be obtained at no charge from any Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. They snap onto the LATCH lower anchors in the seat to help attach a child seat with rigid attachments. The guides hold the seat trim away to expose the anchor and make it easier to attach some child seats.

Attach LATCH lower attachments of the child seat only to the anchors shown.

If you install a child seat with rigid LATCH attachments, do not tighten the tether strap enough to lift the child seat off the vehicle seat cushion when the child is seated in it. Keep the tether strap just snug without lifting the front of the child seat. Keeping the child seat just touching the vehicle seat gives the best protection in a severe crash. Each time you use the safety seat, check that the seat is properly attached to the lower anchors and tether anchor. Try to tilt the child seat from side to side. Also try to tug the seat forward. Check to see if the anchors hold the seat in place.

If the safety seat is not anchored properly, the risk of a child being injured in a crash greatly increases.

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Driving

STARTING

Driving

Positions of the ignition 1. ACCESSORY, allows the electrical accessories such as the radio to operate while the engine is not running. 2. LOCK, locks steering wheel (police vehicles only), the automatic transmission gearshift lever and allows key removal. 3. OFF, shuts off the engine and all accessories without locking the steering wheel. This position also allows the automatic transmission shift lever to be moved from the P (Park) position without the brake pedal being depressed.

When the key is in the ignition OFF position, the automatic transmission shift lever can be moved from the P (Park) position

without the brake pedal depressed. To avoid unwanted vehicle movement, always set the parking brake.

4. ON, all electrical circuits operational. Warning lights illuminated. Key position when driving. 5. START, cranks the engine. Release the key as soon as the engine starts.

Preparing to start your vehicle Engine starting is controlled by the powertrain control system. This system meets all Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment standard requirements regulating the impulse electrical field strength of radio noise. When starting a fuel-injected engine, avoid pressing the accelerator before or during starting. Only use the accelerator when you have difficulty starting the engine. For more information on starting the vehicle, refer to Starting the engine in this chapter.

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.

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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.

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. See Guarding against exhaust fumes in this chapter for more instructions.

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

exhaust fumes.

Important safety precautions A computer system controls the engine’s idle revolutions per minute (RPM). When the engine starts, the idle RPM runs higher than normal in order to warm the engine. If the engine idle speed does not slow down automatically, have the vehicle checked. Do not allow the vehicle to idle for more than 10 minutes at the higher engine RPM. 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. 3. Make sure the gearshift is in P (Park).

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4. Make sure the parking brake is set.

Driving

5. Turn the key to 4 (ON) without turning the key to 5 (START).

HOOD

Make sure the corresponding lights illuminate or illuminate briefly. If a light fails to illuminate, have the vehicle serviced. • If the driver’s safety belt is fastened, the

light may not illuminate.

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Starting the engine 1. Turn the key to 4 (ON) without turning the key to 5 (START). 2. Turn the key to 5 (START), then release the key as soon as the engine starts. Excessive cranking could damage the starter.

Note: If the engine does not start within five seconds on the first try, turn the key to 3 (OFF), wait 10 seconds and try again. If the engine still fails to start, press the accelerator to the floor and try again; this will allow the engine to crank with the fuel shut off in case the engine is flooded with fuel.

Using the engine block heater (if equipped) Use of an engine block heater 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. The heater can be plugged in the night before starting the vehicle.

To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not use your heater with ungrounded electrical systems or two-pronged (cheater)

adapters.

Guarding against exhaust fumes Carbon monoxide is present in exhaust fumes. Take precautions to avoid its dangerous effects.

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

exhaust fumes.

Important ventilating information If the engine is idling while the vehicle is stopped for a long period of time, open the windows at least 2.5 cm (one inch) or adjust the heating or air conditioning to bring in fresh air.

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Driving

BRAKES Your service brakes are self-adjusting. Refer to the scheduled maintenance guide for scheduled maintenance. 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,” “continuous grinding” or “continuous squeal” sound is present while braking, the brake linings may be worn-out and should be inspected by a qualified service technician.

If you are driving down a long or steep hill, shift to a lower gear. Do not apply your brakes continuously, as they may overheat

and become less effective.

Under normal operating conditions, brake dust may accumulate on the wheels. Some brake dust is inevitable as brakes wear and does not contribute to brake noise. The use of modern friction materials with emphasis on improved performance and environmental considerations can lead to more dust than in the past. Brake dust can be cleaned by weekly washing with soapy water and a soft sponge. Heavier deposits can be removed with Motorcraft Wheel and Tire Cleaner (ZC-37–A).

Anti-lock brake system (ABS) This vehicle is equipped with an anti-lock 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, bumps, wet or snowy roads is normal and indicates proper functioning of the vehicle’s anti-lock brake system. If the vehicle has continuous vibration or shudder in the steering wheel while braking, the vehicle should be inspected by a qualified service technician.

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Driving

The ABS operates by detecting the onset of wheel lockup during brake applications and compensates for this tendency. The wheels are prevented from locking even when the brakes are firmly applied. The accompanying illustration depicts the advantage of an ABS equipped vehicle (on bottom) to a non-ABS equipped vehicle (on top) during hard braking with loss of front braking traction. Using ABS • In an emergency or when maximum efficiency from the four-wheel

ABS is required, apply continuous force on the brake. The four wheel ABS will be activated immediately, thus allowing you to retain steering control of your vehicle and, providing there is sufficient space, will enable you to avoid obstacles and bring the vehicle to a controlled stop.

• The anti-lock system does not reduce stopping distance. Always leave enough room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you to stop.

• We recommend that you familiarize yourself with this braking

technique. However, avoid taking any unnecessary risks.

ABS warning lamp ABS The ABS warning lamp in the instrument cluster momentarily illuminates when the ignition is turned to the ON position. If the light does not illuminate momentarily at start up, remains on or continues to flash, the ABS needs to be serviced. With the ABS light on, the anti-lock brake system is disabled and normal braking is still effective unless the brake warning light also remains illuminated with parking brake released. (If your brake warning lamp illuminates, have your vehicle serviced immediately.)

BRAKE

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Parking brake Apply the parking brake whenever the vehicle is parked. To set the parking brake, press the parking brake pedal down until the pedal stops.

The BRAKE warning lamp in the instrument cluster illuminates and remains illuminated (when the ignition is turned ON) until the parking brake is released.

HOOD

BRAKE

Always set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park).

The parking brake is not recommended to stop a moving vehicle. However, if the normal brakes fail, the parking brake can be used to stop your vehicle in an emergency. Since the parking brake applies only the rear brakes, the vehicle’s stopping distance will increase greatly and the handling of your vehicle will be adversely affected. Pull the release lever to release the brake. Driving with the parking brake on will cause the brakes to wear out quickly and reduce fuel economy.

TRACTION CONTROL姟 (IF EQUIPPED) Your vehicle may be equipped with the optional Traction Control娂 system. This system helps you maintain the stability and steerability of

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your vehicle. It is especially useful on slippery and/or hilly road surfaces. The system operates by detecting and controlling wheel spin. The system borrows many of the electronic and mechanical elements already present in the anti-lock braking system (ABS). Wheel-speed sensors allow excess rear wheel spin to be detected by the Traction Control娂 portion of the ABS computer. Any excessive wheel spin is controlled by automatically applying and releasing the rear brakes in conjunction with engine torque reductions. Engine torque reduction is realized via the fully electronic spark and fuel injection systems. This process is very sensitive to driving conditions and very fast acting. The rear wheels “search” for optimum traction several times a second and adjustments are made accordingly. The Traction Control娂 system will allow your vehicle to make better use of available traction on slippery surfaces while you are trying to accelerate or while your foot is on the accelerator pedal. The system is a driver aid which makes your vehicle easier to handle primarily on snow and ice covered roads. During Traction Control娂 operation you may hear an electric motor type of sound coming from the engine compartment and the engine will not “rev-up” when you push further on the accelerator. This is normal system behavior. If you should become stuck in snow or ice or on a very slippery road surface, try switching the Traction Control娂 system off. This may allow excess wheel spin to “dig” the vehicle out and enable a successful “rocking” maneuver. The traction control indicator flashes during a Traction Control娂 system event. If the traction control indicator comes on and stays lit, either: • the Traction Control娂 system • the customer has disabled the system using the traction control switch

requires service, or

located on the left side of the instrument panel.

The Traction Control娂 system will be on every time you turn the ignition key from OFF to ON until you deactivate the system using the traction control switch on the instrument panel left of the steering column.

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STEERING Your vehicle is equipped with power steering. Power steering uses energy from the engine to decrease the driver’s effort in steering the vehicle. To prevent damage to the power steering pump: • Never hold the steering wheel to the extreme right or the extreme left • Do not operate the vehicle with the power steering pump fluid level

for more than a few seconds when the engine is running.

below the MIN mark on the reservoir.

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. If the steering wanders or pulls, check for: • Underinflated tire(s) on any wheel(s) • Uneven vehicle loading • High crown in center of road • High crosswinds • Wheels out of alignment • Loose or worn suspension components Speed sensitive steering The steering in your vehicle is speed sensitive. At high speeds, steering assist will decrease to improve steering feel. At lower speeds, maneuverability will be increased. If the amount of effort required to steer your vehicle changes while driving at a constant vehicle speed, have the power steering system checked by your dealer or a qualified service technician.

AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED) The air suspension system is designed to improve ride, handling and general vehicle performance during: • Certain road conditions • Steering maneuvers • Braking • Accelerations This system keeps the rear of your vehicle at a constant level by automatically adding air or releasing air from the springs.

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If you exceed the load limit, the rear air suspension may not operate. The air suspension shut-off switch is located on the left side of the trunk. If this switch is in the OFF position, the rear air suspension will not operate.

AIR SUSPENSION SWITCH

On vehicles equipped with Air Suspension, turn OFF

the Air Suspension switch prior to jacking, hoisting or towing your vehicle.

Normal vehicle operation does not require any action by the driver.

OFF

INTERRUPTEUR DE LA SUSPENSION PNEUMATIQUE WARNING To prevent sudden vehicle movement, turn off air suspen- sion switch prior to jacking, hoisting or towing vehicle. AVERTISSEMENT Pour prévenir tout mouvement soudain du véhi- cule, placer à l'arrêt l'interrupteur de la suspension pneumatique avant de lever le véhicule (cric ou pont élévateur) ou de le remorquer.

OFF-ARRET

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OPERATION

Brake-shift interlock This vehicle is equipped with a brake-shift interlock feature that prevents the gearshift lever from being moved from P (Park) when the ignition is in the ON position unless the brake pedal is depressed. If you cannot move the gearshift lever out of P (Park) with ignition in the ON position and the brake pedal depressed: 1. Apply the parking brake, turn ignition key to LOCK, then remove the key. 2. Insert the key and turn it to OFF. Apply the brake pedal and shift to N (Neutral).

When the key is in the ignition OFF position, the automatic transmission shift lever can be moved from the P (Park) position

without the brake pedal depressed. To avoid unwanted vehicle movement, always set the parking brake.

3. Start the vehicle. If it is necessary to use the above procedure to move the gearshift lever, it is possible that a fuse has blown or the vehicle’s brakelamps are not operating properly. Refer to Fuses and relays in the Roadside emergencies chapter.

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Do not drive your vehicle until you verify that the brakelamps are working.

Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the LOCK position and

remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.

If the parking brake is fully released, but the brake warning lamp remains illuminated, the brakes may not be working properly.

See your dealer or a qualified service technician.

Driving with a 4–speed automatic transmission

Understanding gearshift positions To put your vehicle in gear, start the engine, depress the brake pedal, then move gearshift lever out of P (Park).

Hold the brake pedal down while you move the gearshift lever from P (Park) to another position. If you do not hold the brake pedal down, your vehicle may move unexpectedly and injure someone.

P (Park) Always come to a complete stop before shifting into P (Park). Make sure the gearshift lever is securely latched in P (Park). This position locks the transmission and prevents the rear wheels from turning.

Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the LOCK position and

remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.

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R (Reverse) With the gearshift lever in R (Reverse), the vehicle will move backward. Always come to a complete stop before shifting into and out of R (Reverse).