2003 Ford E 250 Owners Manual

TILT STEERING WHEEL To adjust the steering wheel: 1. Pull and hold the steering wheel release control toward you. 2. Move the steering wheel up or down until you find the desired location. 3. Release the steering wheel release control. This will lock the steering wheel in position.

Never adjust the steering wheel when the vehicle is moving.

OVERHEAD CONSOLE (IF EQUIPPED) The appearance of your vehicle’s overhead console will vary according to your option package.

Storage compartment (if equipped) Press the OPEN control to open the storage compartment. The door will open slightly and can be moved to full open. The storage compartment may be used to secure sunglasses or a similar object.

64

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driver Controls

Installing a garage door opener (if equipped) The storage compartment can be converted to accommodate a variety of aftermarket garage door openers: 1. Remove the storage clip from the door. 2. Place Velcro hook onto side of aftermarket transmitter opposite of actuator control. 3. Place the transmitter into storage compartment, control down.

4. Place the provided height adaptors onto the back of the GARAGE control as needed. 5. Press the GARAGE control to activate the transmitter.

Electronic compass/temperature display (if equipped)

Outside air temperature The outside temperature display is contained in the overhead console. The temperature display can be turned off and on by pressing the SELECT control on the overhead console. The temperature can be displayed in Centigrade or Fahrenheit by pressing the SELECT control. If the outside temperature falls below 3°C (38°F), the display will alternate from “ICE” to the outside temperature at a two second rate for one minute.

73˚ NW

65

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driver Controls

Compass The compass display is contained in the overhead console. The vehicle heading is displayed as one of N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W and NW. The compass reading may be affected when you drive near large buildings, bridges, power lines and powerful broadcast antenna. Magnetic or metallic objects placed in or on the vehicle may also affect compass accuracy. Adjustments may need to be made to the zone and calibration of the compass.

Compass zone adjustment 1. Determine which magnetic zone you are in by referring to the zone map. 2. Turn the ignition to the ON position.

23

15

14
13
12

7 8 9 1011

3. Press and hold the SELECT control until VAR appears in the display, then release. The display should show the current zone number. 4. Press the SELECT control until the desired zone number appears. The display will flash and then return to normal operation. The zone is now updated.

9 VAR

Compass calibration adjustment Perform this adjustment in an open area free from steel structures and high voltage lines: • Press and hold the SELECT control until CAL appears in the display (approximately eight seconds) and release.

66

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

CAL

Driver Controls

• Drive the vehicle slowly (less than 5 km/h [3 mph]) in circles until • The compass is now calibrated.

CAL indicator turns off in about 2–3 complete circles.

CELL PHONE USE The use of Mobile Communications Equipment has become increasingly important in the conduct of business and personal affairs. However, drivers must not compromise their own or others’ safety when using such equipment. Mobile Communications can enhance personal safety and security when appropriately used, particularly in emergency situations. Safety must be paramount when using mobile communications equipment to avoid negating these benefits. Mobile Communication Equipment includes, but is not limited to cellular phones, pagers, portable email devices, in vehicle communications systems, telematics devices and portable two-way radios.

A driver’s first responsibility is the safe operation of the vehicle. The most important thing you can do to prevent a crash is to

avoid distractions and pay attention to the road. Wait until it is safe to operate Mobile Communications Equipment.

AUXILIARY POWER POINT Power outlets are designed for accessory plugs only. Do not hang any type of accessory or accessory bracket from the plug. Improper use of the power outlet can cause damage not covered by your warranty. The auxiliary power point is located on the instrument panel. A second power point (if equipped) is located behind the driver’s seat on the upper trim panel. Do not plug optional electrical accessories into the cigarette lighter. Use the power point.

67

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driver Controls

POWER WINDOWS (IF EQUIPPED)

When closing the power windows, you should verify they are free of obstructions and ensure that children and/or pets are not in

the proximity of the window openings.

Press and hold the bottom part of the rocker switch to open the window. Press and hold the top part of the rocker switch to close the window.

to adjust the left to adjust the right

POWER SIDE VIEW MIRRORS (IF EQUIPPED) To adjust your mirrors 1. Select mirror or mirror. 2. Move the control in the direction you wish to tilt the mirror. 3. Return to the center position to disable the adjust function.

Spotter mirror (if equipped) Move the mirror manually to increase side and rear visibility.

68

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driver Controls

Fold-away mirrors The mirrors can be manually folded forward or backwards for narrow spaces like driving through an automatic car wash or backing out of a garage with the trailer tow mirror.

The telescoping feature (if equipped) allows the mirror to extend approximately 76 mm (3 inches). This feature is especially useful to the driver when towing a trailer.

SPEED CONTROL (IF EQUIPPED) With speed control set, you can maintain a speed of 48 km/h (30 mph) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator pedal. Speed control does not work at speeds below 48 km/h (30 mph).

Do not use the speed control in heavy traffic or on roads that are winding, slippery or unpaved.

Setting speed control The controls for using your speed control are located on the steering wheel for your convenience. 1. Press the ON control and release it. 2. Accelerate to the desired speed.

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

69

Driver Controls

3. Press the SET ACCEL control and release it. 4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal. Note: • Vehicle speed may vary

momentarily when driving up and down a steep hill.

RES

SET

ACCEL

COAST

• If the vehicle speed increases above the set speed on a downhill, you • If the vehicle speed decreases more than 16 km/h (10 mph) below

may want to apply the brakes to reduce the speed.

your set speed on an uphill, your speed control will disengage.

Resuming a set speed Press the RES (resume) control and release it. This will automatically return the vehicle to the previously set speed. The RES control will not work if the vehicle speed is not faster than 48 km/h (30 mph).

RES

SET

ACCEL

COAST

Increasing speed while using speed control There are two ways to set a higher speed: • Press and hold the SET ACCEL control until you get to the desired speed, then release the control. You can also use the SET ACCEL control to operate the Tap-Up function. Press and release this control to increase the vehicle set speed in increments by 1.6 km/h (1 mph).

• Use the accelerator pedal to get to the desired speed. When the

vehicle reaches that speed press and release the SET ACCEL control.

ACCEL

COAST

RES

SET

70

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driver Controls

Reducing speed while using speed control There are two ways to reduce a set speed: • Press and hold the COAST control until you get to the desired speed, then release the control. You can also use the COAST control to operate the Tap-Down function. Press and release this control to decrease the vehicle set speed in increments by 1.6 km/h (1 mph).

ACCEL

COAST

RES

SET

• Depress the brake pedal until the desired vehicle speed is reached, press the SET ACCEL control.

RES

SET

ACCEL

COAST

Turning off speed control There are two ways to turn off the speed control: • Depress the brake pedal or the clutch pedal (if equipped). This will not erase your vehicle’s previously set speed. • Press the speed control OFF

control.

Note: When you turn off the speed control or the ignition, your speed control set speed memory is erased.

71

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driver Controls

LUGGAGE RACK (IF EQUIPPED) Load the luggage as far back as safely possible on the rack without exceeding the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or the gross axle weight rating (GAWR). Use tie down loops to secure the load.

Vehicles with a higher center of gravity such as utility and four-wheel drive vehicles handle differently than vehicles with a

lower center of gravity. Utility and four-wheel drive vehicles are not designed for cornering at speeds as high as passenger cars any more than low-slung sport cars are designed to perform satisfactorily under off-road conditions. Avoid sharp turns, excessive speed and abrupt maneuvers in these vehicles. Failure to drive cautiously could result in an increase risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.

CARGO ORGANIZER (IF EQUIPPED) Your vehicle comes equipped with a cargo organizer located on the floor of the cargo area. • To open, lift the cargo organizer up to the upright position, pull the front panel away from the rear panel sliding it to the right until it locks.

• To close, press the release button, slide the front panel towards the rear panel and fold down to the stowed position.

• To remove, lift the cargo

organizer up to the upright position, unscrew the screw caps on each side of the organizer and remove.

This cargo organizer is not designed to restrain objects during a collision.

72

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Locks and Security

Locks and Security

KEYS The key operates all locks on your vehicle. In case of loss, replacement keys are available from your dealer. You should always carry a second key with you in a safe place in case you require it in an emergency.

POWER DOOR LOCKS (IF EQUIPPED) Press U to unlock all doors and L to lock all doors.

Memory lock If you lock your doors with the power lock switch or the remote transmitter while the sliding door is open, the door will automatically lock after it is closed.

Back cargo door lock (if equipped) The passenger side rear cargo door has a power door lock control mounted on the inside of the door. When this lock is pressed, all doors will lock/unlock.

73

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Locks and Security

REMOTE ENTRY SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED) This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules and with RS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. The remote entry system allows you to lock or unlock all vehicle doors without a key. Note: lock and unlock will work in any ignition position. If there is a problem with the remote entry system make sure to take ALL remote entry transmitters with you to the dealership, this will aid in troubleshooting the problem.

and release to unlock the driver’s door. Note: The interior

Unlocking the doors 1. Press lamps and puddle lamps (if equipped) will illuminate. 2. Press doors.

and release again within three seconds to unlock all the

Locking the doors 1. Press 2. Press doors are closed and locked. Note: the doors will lock again, and the horn will chirp once.

and release to lock all the doors. and release again within three seconds to confirm that all the

to activate the alarm. Press again or turn the ignition to ACC

Sounding a panic alarm Press or ON to deactivate. Note: The panic alarm will only operate when the ignition is in the OFF position.

74

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Locks and Security

Replacing the battery The remote entry transmitter uses one coin type three-volt lithium battery CR2032 or equivalent. The typical operating range for your remote entry transmitter is approximately 10 meters (33 feet). A decrease in the operating range could be caused by: • weather conditions, • nearby radio towers, • structures around the vehicle and • other vehicles parked next to the vehicle. To replace the battery: 1. Twist a thin coin between the two halves of the remote entry transmitter near the key ring. DO NOT TAKE THE FRONT PART OF THE REMOTE ENTRY TRANSMITTER APART. 2. Remove the old battery. 3. Insert the new battery. Refer to the diagram inside the remote entry transmitter for the correct orientation of the battery. 4. Snap the two halves back together. Note: Replacement of the battery will not cause the remote transmitter to become deprogrammed from your vehicle. The remote transmitter should operate normally after battery replacement.

Replacing lost remote entry transmitters If you would like to have your remote entry transmitter reprogrammed because you lost one, or would like to buy additional remote entry transmitters, you can either reprogram them yourself, or take all remote entry transmitters to your authorized dealer for reprogramming.

How to reprogram your remote entry transmitters You must have all remote entry transmitters (maximum of four) available before beginning this procedure.

75

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Locks and Security

To reprogram the remote entry transmitters: 1. Ensure the vehicle is electronically unlocked. 2. Put the key in the ignition. 3. Turn the key from the LOCK position to OFF. 4. Cycle, eight times, rapidly (within 10 seconds) between the OFF position and ON. Note: The eighth turn must end in the ON position. 5. The doors will lock, then unlock, to confirm that the programming mode has been activated. 6. Within 20 seconds press any button on the remote entry transmitter. Note: If more than 20 seconds have passed you will need to start the procedure over again. 7. The doors will lock, then unlock, to confirm that this remote entry transmitter has been programmed. 8. Repeat Step 6 to program each additional remote entry transmitter. 9. Turn the ignition to the OFF position after you have finished programming all of the remote entry transmitters. 10. The doors will lock, then unlock, to confirm that the programming mode has been exited.

Illuminated entry The interior lamps illuminate when the remote entry system is used to unlock the door(s) or sound the personal alarm. The illuminated entry system will turn off the interior lights if: • the ignition switch is turned to the RUN or ACC position, or • the remote transmitter lock control is pressed, or • after 25 seconds of illumination. 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.

76

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

Seating and Safety Restraints

SEATING Notes:

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.

Do not pile cargo higher than the seatbacks to reduce the risk of injury in a collision or sudden stop.

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.

Lift handle to move seat forward or backward.

77

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

Pull lever up to adjust seatback.

Using the manual lumbar support The lumbar support control is located on the inboard side of the driver’s seat. Turn the lumbar support control clockwise to increase firmness. Turn the lumbar support control counterclockwise to increase softness.

Adjusting the front power seat (if equipped) The control is located on the outboard side of the seat cushion. Press to raise or lower the front portion of the seat cushion.

78

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

Press to raise or lower the rear portion of the seat cushion.

Press the control to move the seat forward, backward, up or down.

Quick release captains chair To remove the seat: 1. Disengage the lap/shoulder belt from the seat by inserting a key or small screwdriver into the slot in the detachable anchor and lifting upward.

79

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

Stow the tongue end of the detachable anchor.

2. Pull the seat latch handle, then pull the seat toward the right side of the vehicle to disengage four pins from the floor mount. 3. Remove the seat.

To install the seat:

Check to see that the seat and seatback is latched securely in position. Keep floor area free of objects that would prevent

proper seat engagement. Never attempt to adjust the seat while the vehicle is in motion.

1. Position the seat to the floor mount. 2. Engage the four pins into the floor mount hole and push the seat toward the left side of the vehicle to fully engage.

3. Pull the seat latch handle downward to lock the seat in position. 4. Make sure the safety belt is not twisted, then insert the seat belt tongue into detachable anchor until you hear a “click” and feel the latch engage.

80

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

ACCESSING THE 3RD, 4TH AND 5TH ROW SEATS (IF EQUIPPED) To make access to the 4th and 5th row seats easier, attach the 3rd and 4th row passenger side seat belts to the trim panel by using the snaps attached to the seat belt webbing and the trim panel.

REAR BENCH SEAT To remove the seats: 1. Disengage the lap/shoulder belt from the seat by inserting a key or small screwdriver into the slot in the detachable anchor and lifting upward (2nd row passenger side only).

Stow the tongue end of the detachable anchor (2nd row only).

81

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

2. Pull the LH/RH seat latch handles, located under the seat, rearward to release the latch hook ends from the front strikers.

3. Move the seat rearward and lift the seats rear hooks away from the rear strikers prior to lifting the front hooks out from the front strikers. 4. With assistance, remove the seat assembly. • To remove the 3rd, 4th, and 5th row seats (if equipped), repeat steps

2 through 4.

To install the seat: 1. Position the seat in the vehicle. 2. Align front hooks to front strikers, prior to lowering the rear hooks and aligning them with the rear strikers. 3. Engage the LH/RH latch rod hook ends in the front striker locking holes. 4. Rotate the LH/RH latch handles forward, and at the same time slide the seat assembly forward to engage the strikers. Continue forward movement until the seat reaches the end of its travel. 5. Make sure the safety belt is not twisted, then insert the seat belt tongue into detachable anchor until you hear a “click” and feel the latch engage (2nd row only).

Always latch the vehicle seat to the floor, whether the seat is occupied or empty. If not latched, the seat may cause injury

during a sudden stop.

82

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

SAFETY RESTRAINTS 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.

83

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

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.

The front outboard and rear outboard safety restraints in the vehicle are combination lap and shoulder belts. The front outboard passenger and rear seat outboard safety belts have two 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 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. Automatic locking mode The automatic locking mode is not available on the driver safety belt.

84

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

When to use the automatic locking mode In this mode, the shoulder belt is automatically 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. This mode should be used any time a child safety seat is installed in a passenger front or outboard rear seating position (if equipped). 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.

• 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 Disconnect 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.

85

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

After any vehicle collision, the safety belt systems at all outboard seating positions (except the driver position, which does not

have this feature) must be checked by a qualified technician to verify that the automatic locking retractor feature for child seats is still functioning properly. In addition, all seat belts should be checked for proper function.

BELT AND RETRACTOR ASSEMBLY MUST BE REPLACED if the seat belt assembly “automatic locking retractor” feature or any other seat belt function is not operating properly when checked according to the procedures in Workshop Manual. Failure to replace the Belt and Retractor assembly could increase the risk of injury in collisions.

Safety belt pretensioner Your vehicle is equipped with safety belt pretensioners at the driver and front passenger seating positions. The safety belt pretensioner is a device which removes excess webbing from the safety belt system. The safety belt pretensioner uses the same crash sensor system as the front air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS). When the safety belt pretensioner deploys, webbing from the lap and shoulder belt is tightened. The driver and front passenger seat belt system (including retractors, buckles and height adjusters) must be replaced if the vehicle is involved in a collision that results in deployment of front air bags and safety belt pretensioners. Refer to the Safety belt maintenance section in this chapter.

Failure to replace the safety belt assembly under the above conditions could result in severe personal injuries in the event of

a collision.

86

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

Front safety belt height adjustment Adjust the height of the shoulder belt so the belt rests across the middle of your shoulder. To adjust the shoulder belt height, push the button and slide the height adjuster up or down. Release the button and 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 center lap belt The lap belt does not adjust automatically.

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

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.

87

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

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.

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 and the warning chime sounds 4-8 seconds.

The safety belt warning light and warning chime turn off.

The indicator chime will remain off and the safety belt warning lamp will illuminate for 4-8 seconds.

88

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

BeltMinder The BeltMinder feature is a supplemental warning to the safety belt warning function. This feature provides additional reminders to the driver that the driver’s safety belt is unbuckled by intermittently sounding a chime and illuminating the safety belt warning lamp in the instrument cluster. If... The driver’s safety belt is not buckled approximately 5
seconds after the safety belt warning light has turned off...

Then... 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 safety belt is buckled. The BeltMinder feature will not activate.

The driver’s safety belt is buckled while the safety belt indicator light is illuminated and the safety belt warning chime is sounding... The driver’s safety belt is buckled before the ignition switch is turned to the ON position... The following are reasons most often given for not wearing safety belts: (All statistics based on U.S. data) Reasons given... “Crashes are rare events”

The BeltMinder feature will not activate.

Consider... 36700 c rashes 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. 3 of 4 fatal crashes occur within 25
miles of home.

“I’m not going far”

89

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

Reasons given... “Belts are uncomfortable”

“I was in a hurry”

“Seat belts don’t work”

“Traffic is light”

“Belts wrinkle my clothes”

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

“I have an air bag”

“I’d rather be thrown clear”

Consider... 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. Prime time for an accident. BeltMinder reminds 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. Air bags offer greater protection when used with safety belts. Frontal airbags are not designed to inflate in rear and side crashes or rollovers. People who are ejected are 40
times more likely to DIE. Safety belts help prevent ejection, WE CAN’T “PICK OUR CRASH”.

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.

90

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

One time disable Any time the safety belt is buckled and then unbuckled during an ignition ON cycle, the BeltMinder will be disabled for that ignition cycle only. Deactivating/activating the BeltMinder feature Read steps 1 - 9 thoroughly before proceeding with the deactivation/activation programming procedure. The BeltMinder feature 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 • all vehicle doors are closed • the driver’s safety belt is unbuckled • the parklamps/headlamps are in OFF position (If vehicle is equipped

with Autolamps, this will not affect the procedure.)

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 at least one minute after the safety belt warning light turns off. • Steps 3–5 must be completed within 60 seconds or the procedure will

have to be repeated.

3. Buckle then unbuckle the safety belt three times, ending with the safety belt unbuckled. This can be done before or during BeltMinder warning activation. 4. Turn on the parklamps/headlamps, turn off the parklamps/headlamps. 5. Buckle then unbuckle the safety belt three times, ending with the safety belt unbuckled. • After step 5 the safety belt warning light will be turned on for three

seconds.

91

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

6. Within seven seconds of the safety belt warning light turning off, buckle then unbuckle the safety belt. • This will disable BeltMinder if it is currently enabled, or enable

BeltMinder if it is currently disabled.

7. Confirmation of disabling BeltMinder is provided by flashing the safety belt warning light four times per second for three seconds. 8. Confirmation of enabling BeltMinder is provided by flashing the safety belt warning light four times per second for three seconds, followed by three seconds with the safety belt warning light off, then followed by flashing the safety belt warning light four times per second for three seconds again. 9. After receiving confirmation, the deactivation/activation procedure is complete.

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.

92

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

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.

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.

93

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

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.

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.

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.

Additional equipment may affect the performance of the air bag sensors increasing the risk of injury. Please refer to the Body

Builders Layout Book for instructions about the appropriate installation of additional equipment.

94

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

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 a longitudinal deceleration sufficient to cause the air bag 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 sufficient enough to cause activation. Air bags are designed to inflate in frontal and near-frontal collisions, not rollover, side-impact, or rear-impacts unless the collision causes sufficient longitudinal deceleration.

95

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

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 or sodium compounds which may irritate the skin and eyes, but none of the residue is toxic. While the SRS 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. 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: • driver and passenger air bag modules (which include the inflators and • one or more impact and safing sensors • a readiness light and tone • a diagnostic module • and the electrical wiring which connects the components The diagnostic module monitors its own internal circuits and 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.

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.

96

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

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

illuminate immediately after ignition is turned on.

flash or stay lit.

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 ride in your vehicle (generally children who are four years old or younger and who weigh 18 kg [40 lbs] or less), 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.

97

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

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. Ford recommends using child safety seats equipped with LATCH attachments, attached to LATCH anchors and tether anchors. Some child seat manufacturers sell LATCH accessory belts that attach child seats that are not equipped with LATCH attachments onto LATCH anchors. See Attaching safety seats with LATCH attachments for child seat anchors in this section for seating positions with LATCH anchors. If you install a forward-facing child safety seat using the vehicle safety belts: • use only seats equipped with lap-shoulder belts; • forward-facing child safety seats can be used in the center of the three-passenger 2nd row bench seat only if a top tether strap is used; • Ford recommends placing forward-facing safety seats in the 2nd row

and using top tether straps for added protection.

For more information on top tether straps, see Attaching safety seats with tether straps in this section. Any booster seat that places the vehicle’s lap belt or shoulder belt around a shield above and ahead of the child’s hips should not be used in this vehicle.

Do not use a forward–facing safety seat or an infant seat in the last row of a 12– or 15–passenger Club Wagon.

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. 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.

98

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

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? • Is the shoulder belt centered on the shoulder and chest? • Can the child stay seated like this for the whole trip?

99

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

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 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.

100

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

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.

101

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

When installing a child safety seat: • Review and follow the information presented in the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System 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. • For the front passenger seat, 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.

• For the front passenger seat, 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).

Ford recommends the use of a child safety seat having a top tether strap. Install the child safety seat in a seating position which is capable of providing a tether anchorage. For more information on top tether straps, refer to Attaching safety seats with tether straps.

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.

102

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

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

An air bag can kill or injure a child in a child seat. If you must use a forward-facing child seat in the front seat, move seat all

the way back.

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

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

103

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

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 extracted.

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

104

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

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 tilt 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 and back. 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 safety seats with tether straps

Children should be placed in the rear in an appropriate child safety seat that is properly secured to the vehicle.

When using forward-facing child safety seats in vehicles with only two seating positions so the forward-facing child safety seat cannot be placed in the rear of the vehicle, move the passenger seat as far back from the instrument panel as possible.

Do not use a forward–facing safety seat or an infant seat in the last row of a 12– or 15–passenger Club Wagon.

105

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

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.

Front passenger seating position The tether can be attached directly to the rear of the front seat. 1. Position the child safety seat on the front right-hand passenger seat. 2. Adjust the front right-hand passenger seat full forward.

3. Route the child safety seat tether strap over the back of the front right-hand passenger seat as shown.

106

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

4. Clip the tether strap hook to the seat pedestal to the location shown.

5. Adjust the front right hand passenger seat to the full rearward position.

6. Refer to the instructions in this section under Installing child safety seats in combination lap and shoulder belt seating positions to secure the child safety seat. 7. Tighten the child safety seat tether strap according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

107

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

Second row bucket seats (Chateau Quads) The tether strap can be attached directly to the tether bracket under the back edge of the seat cushion.

1. Position the child safety seat on the second row left hand or right hand bucket seat. 2. Route the child safety tether strap over the back of the left hand or right hand second row bucket seat.

3. Clip the tether strap hook to the seat pedestal at the location shown.

4. Refer to the instructions in this section under Installing child safety seats in combination lap and shoulder belt seating positions to secure the child safety seat. 5. Tighten the child safety seat tether strap according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

108

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

Second, Third and Fourth row three passenger bench seats The tether strap can be attached directly to the tether bracket provided under the back edge of the seat cushion.

1. For second row 3–Passenger bench seat, place the child safety seat on the left hand outboard position, the center position, or the right hand outboard position as desired. For third row or fourth row 3–Passenger bench seat, place the child safety seat on the center position. 2. Route the child safety tether strap over the back of 3–Passenger bench seat.

3. Clip the tether strap hook to the tether bracket mounted under rear rail of seat cushion frame.

4. Refer to the instructions in this section under installing child safety seats in combination lap and shoulder belt seating positions to secure the child safety seat. 5. Tighten the child safety seat tether strap according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

109

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

For additional important safety information on the proper use of seat belts, child seats and infant seats, please read the entire Seating and Safety Restraints chapter in this Owner’s Guide. Attaching safety seats with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) attachments for child seat anchors 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 may be equipped with LATCH anchors for child seat installation at the seating positions marked with the child seat symbol:

• Five passenger crew van

• Seven passenger wagon

110

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

• Eight passenger wagon

• Twelve passenger wagon

• Fifteen passenger wagon

represents LATCH anchors.

represents tether strap anchors.

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.

111

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

The lower anchors for child seat installation are located at the rear section of the seat between the cushion and seat back.

Follow the child seat manufacturer’s instructions to properly install a child seat with LATCH attachments.

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.

112

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

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 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, don’t press 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.

113

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driving

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 When the engine starts, the idle RPM runs faster to warm the engine. If the engine idle speed does not slow down automatically, have the vehicle checked. The following starting instructions are for vehicles equipped with a gasoline engine; if your vehicle is equipped with a Diesel engine, refer to Starting the engine in the your Diesel owner guide supplement. Before starting the vehicle: 1. Make sure all occupants buckle 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 electrical accessories are off. • Make sure the parking brake is

set.

114

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

• Make sure the gearshift is in P

(Park).

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

Driving

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.

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.

115

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driving

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.

BRAKES Occasional brake noise is normal. If a metal-to-metal, continuous grinding or continuous squeal sound is present, the brake linings may be worn-out and should be inspected by a qualified service technician. If the vehicle has continuous vibration or shudder in the steering wheel while braking, the vehicle should be inspected by a qualified service technician.

Four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS) Your vehicle is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). This system helps you maintain steering control during emergency stops by keeping the brakes from locking. Noise from the ABS pump motor and brake pedal pulsation may be observed during ABS braking; any pulsations or mechanical noise you may feel or hear is normal.

116

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driving

ABS warning lamp ABS The ABS lamp in the instrument cluster momentarily illuminates when the ignition is turned to ON. If the light does not illuminate during start up, remains on or flashes, the ABS may be disabled and may need to be serviced. Even when the ABS is disabled, normal braking is still effective. (If your BRAKE warning lamp illuminates with the parking brake released, have your brake system serviced immediately.) Using ABS When hard braking is required, apply continuous force on the brake pedal; do not pump the brake pedal since this will reduce the effectiveness of the ABS and will increase your vehicle’s stopping distance. The ABS will be activated immediately, allowing you to retain full steering control during hard braking and on slippery surfaces. However, the ABS does not decrease stopping distance.

Parking brake To set the parking brake (1), press the parking brake pedal down until the pedal stops. To release, pull the lever (2).

Always set the parking brake fully and make sure

that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park).

The BRAKE warning lamp will illuminate and will remain illuminated until the parking brake is released. The parking brake is not recommended to stop a moving vehicle. However, if the normal brakes fail, the parking brake can be sued 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.

117

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driving

STEERING To prevent damage to the power steering system: • Never hold the steering wheel at its furthest turning points (until it • Do not operate the vehicle with a low power steering pump fluid level

stops) 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: • an improperly inflated tire • uneven tire wear • loose or worn suspension components • loose or worn steering components • improper steering alignment TRACTION-LOK AXLE (IF EQUIPPED) This axle provides added traction on slippery surfaces, particularly when one wheel is on a poor traction surface. Under normal conditions, the Traction-Lok axle functions like a standard rear axle. PREPARING TO DRIVE YOUR VEHICLE

Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover rate than other types of vehicles.

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

Your vehicle has larger tires and increased ground clearance, giving the vehicle a higher center of gravity than a passenger car.

Vehicles with a higher center of gravity such as utility and four-wheel drive vehicles handle differently than vehicles with a

lower center of gravity. Utility and four-wheel drive vehicles are not designed for cornering at speeds as high as passenger cars any more than low-slung sports cars are designed to perform satisfactorily under off-road conditions. Avoid sharp turns, excessive speed and abrupt maneuvers in these vehicles. Failure to drive cautiously could result in an increased risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.

118

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driving

Loaded vehicles, with a higher center of gravity, may handle differently than unloaded vehicles. Extra precautions, such as

slower speeds and increased stopping distance, should be taken when driving a heavily loaded vehicle.

VEHICLE STABILITY AND HANDLING The risk of a rollover crash increases as the number of people and load in the vehicle increase. This increased risk occurs because the passenger weight and load raises the vehicle’s center of gravity and causes it to shift rearward. As a result, the van has less resistance to rollover and handles differently from other commonly driven passenger vehicles, making it more difficult to control in an emergency situation. Placing any load on the roof also raises the center of gravity and increases the potential for rollover. The van should be operated by an experienced driver. An organization that owns a 15–passenger van should select one or two experienced drivers to drive the van on a regular basis. These drivers will gain valuable experience handling the van. This experience will help make each trip safer. The van should be operated at a safe speed which, in some conditions, may be less than the posted speed limit. Further, all occupants should be properly restrained. Most people killed in rollover crashes in 15–passenger vans were unbelted. Occupants can dramatically reduce their risk of being killed or seriously injured in a rollover crash by simply using their seat belts. Organizations that own 15–passenger vans should have a written seat belt use policy. Drivers should be responsible for enforcing the policy.

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 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).

119

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driving

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.

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.

Understanding the gearshift positions of the 4–speed automatic transmission

P (Park) This position locks the transmission and prevents the rear wheels from turning. To put your vehicle in gear: • Start the engine • Depress the brake pedal • Move the gearshift lever into the desired gear 120

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driving

To put your vehicle in P (Park): • Come to a complete stop • Move the gearshift lever and securely latch it in P (Park)

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.

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

(Overdrive)

The normal driving position for the best fuel economy. Transmission (Overdrive) can be deactivated operates in gears one through four. by pressing the transmission control switch on the end of the gearshift lever. This will illuminate the O/D OFF lamp and activate Drive. Drive (not shown) Drive is activated when the transmission control switch is pressed. • This position allows for all forward gears except overdrive. • O/D OFF lamp is illuminated. • Provides engine braking. • Use when driving conditions cause excessive shifting from O/D to other gears. Examples: city traffic, hilly terrain, heavy loads, trailer towing and when engine braking is required. • To return to O/D (Overdrive), press the transmission control switch. • O/D (Overdrive) is automatically returned each time the key is turned

The O/D OFF lamp will not be illuminated.

off.

121

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driving

2 (Second) This position allows for second gear only. • Provides engine braking. • Use to start-up on slippery roads. • To return to • Selecting 2 (Second) at higher speeds will cause the transmission to

(Overdrive), move the gearshift lever into the

(Overdrive) position.

downshift to second gear at the appropriate vehicle speed.

1 (First) • Provides maximum engine braking. • Allows upshifts by moving gearshift lever. • Will not downshift into 1 (First) at high speeds; allows for 1 (First)

when vehicle reaches slower speeds.

Forced downshifts • Allowed in (Overdrive) or Drive. • Depress the accelerator to the floor. • Allows transmission to select an appropriate gear. Shift strategy (4R100 automatic transmission) To account for customer driving habits and conditions, your 4R100
automatic transmission electronically controls the shift quality by using an adaptive learning strategy. The adaptive learning strategy is maintained by power from the battery. When the battery is disconnected or a new battery is installed, the transmission must relearn its adaptive strategy. Optimal shifting will resume within a few hundred kilometers (miles) of operation. If the shift quality does not improve within a few hundred kilometers (miles) of operation, or if the downshifts and other throttle conditions do not function normally, see your dealer or a qualified service technician as soon as possible. If your vehicle goes off the edge of the pavement • If your vehicle goes off the edge of the pavement, slow down, but avoid severe brake application, ease the vehicle back onto the pavement only after reducing your speed. Do not turn the steering wheel too sharply while returning to the road surface.

122

2003 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driving • It may be safer to stay on the apron or shoulder of the road and slow down gradually before returning to the pavement. You may lose