1996 Ford Taurus Owners Manual

YOU VERIFY THAT THE BRAKELAMPS ARE WORKING.

Using a column-mounted gearshift

If your gearshift is on the column, you can use any of the following positions:

The column-mounted gearshift

Once you place the gearshift securely into position, gradually release the brake pedal and use the accelerator as necessary. R (Reverse)

With the gearshift in the R (Reverse) position, the vehicle will move backward. You should always come to a complete stop before shifting into or out of R (Reverse). N (Neutral)

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

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Driving When to use j (Overdrive) j (Overdrive) is the usual driving position for an automatic overdrive transaxle. It works the same way D (Drive) works, automatically upshifting or downshifting as the vehicle speeds or slows. However, j (Overdrive) also shifts into a fourth gear — an overdrive gear — when your vehicle cruises at a consistent speed for any length of time. This fourth gear will increase your fuel economy when you travel at cruising speeds. When to use D (Drive) D (Drive) eliminates the excessive shifting between third and fourth gears that your vehicle sometimes does when you are traveling through hilly terrain in j (Overdrive). It also provides more engine braking than j (Overdrive) for descending hills or city driving. When to use 1 (First) Use 1 (First) when added engine braking is desired when descending steep hills. The automatic transaxle will shift to the proper gear to ascend any grade without any need to shift to 1 (First). Do not go faster than 38 mph (61 km/h) in this gear. You can upshift from 1 (First) to D (Drive) or from 1 (First) to j (Overdrive) at any speed. P (Park) Always come to a complete stop before you shift into P (Park). Make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park). This locks the transaxle and prevents the front wheels from rotating.

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RWARNING

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

RWARNING

Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running.

You can tell a column-mounted gearshift is securely latched in P (Park) if you cannot move it without pulling it toward you and rotating it downward. Driving with an Automatic Overdrive Transaxle (Column or Console Gearshift with O/D OFF Switch) Your automatic overdrive transaxle provides fully automatic operation in either D (Overdrive) or with the O/D OFF Switch depressed. Driving with the shift selector in D (Overdrive) gives the best fuel economy for normal driving conditions. For manual control, start in 1 (First) and then shift manually. Putting Your Vehicle in Gear

You must push in the thumb button to move the console-mounted gearshift to the position you choose.

To move the gearshift out of P (Park), the ignition must be turned from the locked position to either the OFF or the ON position.

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To operate:

1. Start the engine.

2. Depress and hold the brake pedal.

3. Move the gearshift lever out of P (Park).

Your vehicle is equipped with a Brake Shift Interlock safety feature. This feature prevents the gearshift from being moved from the P (Park) position until the brake pedal is depressed. This feature is active when the ignition is in the ON position. If the gearshift lever CANNOT be moved from P (Park) with the brake pedal depressed:

1. Turn the engine off and remove the ignition

key.

2. Reinsert the ignition key and turn clockwise

to the first position (OFF).

3. Depress the brake pedal, move the gearshift

lever to N (Neutral) and start the engine.

If you need to shift out of P (Park) by using the alternate procedure described above, it is possible that a fuse has blown and that your brakelamps may also not be functional. Please refer to the chapter titled Servicing Your Taurus in this Owner Guide for instructions on checking and replacing fuses.

RWARNING

DO NOT DRIVE YOUR VEHICLE UNTIL YOU VERIFY THAT THE BRAKELAMPS ARE WORKING.

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Using the gearshift

If your gearshift is on the column, you can use any of the following positions:

The column-mounted gearshift

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If your gearshift is on the console, you can use any of the following positions:

The console-mounted gearshift

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

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

With the gearshift in the R (Reverse) position, the vehicle will move backward. You should always come to a complete stop before shifting into or out of R (Reverse).

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N (Neutral) With the gearshift in the N (Neutral) position, the vehicle can be started and is free to roll. Hold the brake pedal down while in this position. Driving When to use D (Overdrive) D (Overdrive) is the usual driving position for an automatic overdrive transaxle. It automatically upshifts or downshifts as the vehicle speeds or slows. However, D (Overdrive) also shifts into a fourth gear — an overdrive gear — when your vehicle cruises at a consistent speed for any length of time. This fourth gear will increase your fuel economy when you travel at cruising speeds. When to use D (O/D OFF) You will notice that there is only one drive position on your gearshift indicator (instead of Drive and Overdrive). However, you will find a switch labeled O/D located on the gearshift lever. Push in the switch and the O/D OFF light in the instrument cluster will illuminate. With the O/D OFF light illuminated, the transaxle will operate in first, second and third gears and will not shift into fourth gear. Operating in D (O/D OFF) eliminates the excessive shifting between third and fourth gears that your vehicle sometimes does when you are traveling through hilly terrain in D (Overdrive). It also provides more engine braking than D (Overdrive) for descending hills or city driving. To return the transaxle to the normal Overdrive operation, press the O/D OFF switch again. Use this switch to select Overdrive or D (O/D OFF) whenever you drive your vehicle.

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NOTE: If the O/D OFF indicator light is

flashing on and off repeatedly when the vehicle is started or does not come on when the O/D OFF switch is pushed, it means that there is a transaxle electronic system malfunction. You should contact your dealer as soon as possible or damage to the transaxle could occur.

The transaxle will be in the “overdrive on” mode when the vehicle is started even if the O/D OFF mode was selected when the vehicle was last shut off. When to use 2 (Second) Use Second for start-up on slippery roads or to give you more engine braking to slow your vehicle on downgrades. When to use 1 (First) Use 1 (First) when added engine braking is desired when descending steep hills. The automatic transaxle will shift to the proper gear to ascend any grade without any need to shift to 1 (First). Do not go faster than 38 mph (61 km/h) in this gear. You can upshift from 1 (First) to D (Overdrive) at any speed. P (Park) Always come to a complete stop before you shift into P (Park). Make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park). This locks the transaxle and prevents the front wheels from rotating. If your vehicle has a console mounted gearshift, the gearshift indicator in the cluster is illuminated in P (Park) only when the gearshift button is released.

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RWARNING

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

RWARNING

Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running.

You can tell a console-mounted gearshift is securely latched in P (Park) if you cannot move it without pushing in the thumb button. Steering Your Vehicle Your vehicle comes with power steering. Power steering uses energy from the engine to help steer your vehicle.

Your vehicle has variable-assist steering. This system provides light power steering efforts for parking and heavier power steering efforts for highway driving. If you notice that the power steering effort does not change according to the speed you are traveling, or if the power steering system is not working, have the system checked.

If the amount of effort needed to steer your vehicle changes at a constant vehicle speed, have the power steering system checked. If the power steering system breaks down (or if the engine is turned off), you can steer the vehicle manually but it takes more effort.

Never hold the steering wheel to the extreme right or left for more than five seconds if the engine is running. This can damage the power steering pump.

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Semi-Active Ride Control (SHO only) Your vehicle is equipped with a semi-active ride control suspension system. Ride and handling is enhanced by firm shock absorber performance during certain road conditions and handling maneuvers. The shock absorber is returned to a softer performance when driver or road surface induced motion ceases. This system is automatic with no direct driver input required. Brakes Applying the Brakes

Your vehicle may have four-wheel power anti-lock disc brakes which adjust automatically through everyday use.

Some models have power front disc brakes and rear drum brakes which automatically adjust as the brake pads and linings wear down.

If your vehicle does not have anti-lock brakes, apply the brake pedal gradually. Use the “squeeze” technique — push on the brake pedal with a steadily increasing force. This allows the wheels to continue to roll while you are slowing down, which lets you steer properly.

If your vehicle does not have anti-lock brakes, extreme braking can make the wheels lock and slide, causing you to lose control of the steering. If the wheels lock, release the brake pedal and repeat the “squeeze” technique.

Do not drive with your foot resting on the brake pedal; you will wear out the linings and increase your vehicle’s stopping distance. Brake rotor damage may also eventually occur.

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NOTE: If you are driving down a long or

steep hill, shift to a lower gear and do not apply your brakes continuously. If you apply your brakes continuously, they may overheat and become less effective.

Occasional brake squeal during light to moderate stops does not affect the function of the brake system and is normal. However, if the squeal becomes louder or more frequent, have your brakes inspected by your dealer or a qualified service technician. Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) (If equipped)

If your vehicle is equipped with the anti-lock brake system (ABS), the wheels will not lock and slide when you press down hard on the brake pedal. The ABS automatically starts releasing and reapplying the front brakes independently and the rear brakes together whenever your vehicle’s wheels start to lock. When this happens, you will feel the brake pedal pulsate. This is an indication that the ABS is working correctly and is normal.

If the brake pedal is applied while the vehicle is driven over uneven road surfaces, the ABS may cycle and the driver may sense a pulsation in the brake pedal, accompanied by a slight up and down movement of the pedal height and a clicking sound. This may also happen when driving on an inclined surface such as a driveway while making a sharp turn. This is a normal condition.

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Each time you turn the ignition key to the ON position, the ABS will function through one test cycle. When this happens, the ABS light will come on for up to five seconds. If the light stays on longer than five seconds, shut off the engine and restart. If it remains on, it means the ABS is disabled and should be serviced immediately to restore the benefits of the anti-lock feature. Normal braking is not affected unless the red BRAKE system warning light is also lit.

ABS has self-check capabilities. As described above, the system turns on the ABS light each time you start your engine. After the engine is started and the ABS light turns off, the system performs another test the first time the vehicle reaches 4-9 mph (6-15 km/h). The system turns on the ABS pump motor for approximately 1/2
second. At this time, a mechanical noise may be heard. This is a normal part of the self-check feature. If a malfunction is found during this check the ABS light will come on.

Vehicles with ABS are identified with a label on the front door pillar.

Ford Motor Company has not found any negative effects of mobile radio transmitting equipment installed on vehicles with the ABS system providing that the radio is installed according to the radio manufacturer’s instructions. However, if you have had a mobile radio transmitter installed and the ABS light comes on (at any time other than immediately after turning the key to the ON position) have your mobile radio dealer inspect the radio installation. Also, if the ABS system is activated other than during maximum braking, have your mobile radio installation checked.

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Parking Brake

The parking brake should be used whenever you park your vehicle.

This brake is suspended just below the bottom of the instrument panel to the left of the brake pedal.

The parking brake and parking brake release

RWARNING

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

RWARNING

If the parking brake is fully released, but the Brake System light remains on, have the brakes checked immediately. They may not be working properly.

RWARNING

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

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The parking brake is not designed to stop a moving vehicle, but you can use the parking brake to stop your vehicle in an emergency if the normal brakes fail. However, since the parking brake applies only the rear brakes, the stopping distance will increase greatly and the handling of your vehicle will be adversely affected.

Always check the Brake Warning Light each time you start your engine. Driving with the parking brake on will cause the brakes to wear out quickly and will reduce the fuel economy. Driving Under Special Conditions Tips for Safe Driving

As with any new vehicle, yours may drive and handle differently from your previous vehicle. Use care until you become accustomed to its various features and driving characteristics.

Operate your vehicle within reasonable limits. Sudden acceleration, deceleration, turning, or combinations of these maneuvers can cause a vehicle to behave differently than anticipated. Driving in Bad Weather

Slippery roads

On some slippery road surfaces, front-wheel drive may provide better acceleration than rear-wheel drive. However, this does not mean that your vehicle can stop any faster or any better than a vehicle with rear-wheel drive. Exercise the same caution while driving on slippery roads with your front-wheel drive vehicle as you would with a rear-wheel drive vehicle.

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q Do not quickly move the steering wheel

unless necessary.

q Drive slower than you normally would. q Give your vehicle more distance to stop. q Pump the brake pedal steadily and evenly to avoid locking your wheels. (Does not apply to vehicles with anti-lock brakes.)

q Consider using one of the lower gears.

RWARNING

To avoid skidding and losing control on slippery roads, do not downshift into 1
(First) when you are moving faster than 20 mph (30 km/h).

RWARNING

If your vehicle has speed control, do not use it on slippery roads. You could lose control of your vehicle and could injure someone.

If your vehicle gets stuck (for example, in mud or snow), you may try to “rock” it out of the spot. Shift, in a steady rhythm, between forward and reverse gears. While in each gear, press lightly on the accelerator and release.

RWARNING

Do not spin the wheels at over 35 mph (55 km/h). The tires may fail and injure a passenger or bystander.

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By moving the vehicle backward and forward, you may gain enough momentum to move out of the spot. Do not rock the vehicle for more than a few minutes. This may overheat the engine, damage the transaxle, or damage the tires. If you are still stuck after a minute or two of rocking, call for a tow truck.

High water

Do not drive through flooded areas unless you are sure that the water is below the bottom of the wheel rims.

If you must drive through high water, drive slowly. You may have limited traction or wet brakes, so allow extra stopping distance because your vehicle will not stop as quickly as usual.

After you drive through the standing water, apply your brakes gently several times as your vehicle moves slowly. This helps to dry the brakes. Driving With a Heavy Load There are limits to the amount of weight your vehicle can carry or tow. The total weight of your vehicle, plus the weight of the passengers and cargo, should never be more than the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Also, the weight that your vehicle carries over the front axle and rear axle should never be more than the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for the respective axle.

You can find your vehicle’s GVWR and GAWR on the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the left front door lock facing or on the door latch post pillar.

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The weight limits of your vehicle’s tires affect the GVWR or GAWR limitations. Usage of replacement tires with higher weight limits than originals does not increase GVWR or GAWR. Usage of lower capacity replacement tires may lower GVWR and GAWR limitations.

RWARNING

If the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the Safety Compliance Certification Label is exceeded, your vehicle may be damaged or you may lose control and injure someone.

Limiting Your Vehicle’s Load

The load that you add to your vehicle must not exceed the maximum load stated on the Safety Compliance Certification Decal attached to the left front door pillar.

To figure the weight of your vehicle’s load, add the weights of:

the driver and passengers

luggage and any other items that you put in your vehicle

the tongue load of the loaded trailer

the weight of any equipment that has been added to your vehicle since it was delivered to your dealer

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If you do not know the actual weights of these items, use the following procedure to figure the weight of a load:

1. Weigh your vehicle without the driver,

passengers and luggage. You might take your vehicle to a shipping company or an inspection station for trucks.

2. Then weigh your vehicle with the driver,

passengers and luggage.

3. Subtract the first reading from the second to

figure the total weight of the load.

After determining this load, you must also make sure that the total weight of your vehicle, plus the load it carries, is less than its GVWR. Also, make sure that the weight your vehicle carries over each axle is less than the GAWR for the respective axle.

You can find the GVWR and GAWR on the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the left front door lock facing or the door latch post pillar.

If your vehicle exceeds the GVWR, remove cargo from your vehicle accordingly. If your vehicle exceeds the GAWR for either axle, shift the load or remove cargo accordingly.

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Trailer Towing Your vehicle is classified as a light duty towing vehicle. The amount of weight that you can safely tow depends on the type of engine in your vehicle. See the following charts:

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Your vehicle does not come from the factory fully equipped to tow. No towing packages are available through Ford or Lincoln/Mercury dealers.

Because towing a trailer puts extra strain on your vehicle, you must follow certain precautions for your safety and the good of your vehicle:

Stay within the load limits when you tow. (See Knowing Your Vehicle’s Load Limits.) q Carefully and thoroughly prepare your

vehicle for towing, making sure to use the right equipment and to attach it properly. (See Preparing to Tow in this chapter.)

q Use extra caution when driving your vehicle while you tow. (See Driving while you tow in this chapter.)

Service your vehicle more frequently if you tow a trailer. (See Servicing your vehicle if you tow in this chapter.)

Do not tow a trailer until your vehicle has been driven at least 500 miles (800 km).

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RWARNING

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

RWARNING

Do not tow a trailer when the temporary spare tire is being used.

Ten to 15% of the loaded trailer’s weight should be on the tongue. However, the tongue load should never exceed 10% of the maximum weight that your vehicle can safely tow. Preparing to Tow

For your safety and for the good of your vehicle, use the right equipment for the type of trailer you tow. Also, make sure that all towing equipment is properly attached to your vehicle. If you are not certain that you are using the right equipment in the proper manner, see your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer.

Do not use hitches that clamp onto your vehicle’s bumper. The bumper is not designed to bear the load.

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Using the hitch

Your vehicle uses a load carrying hitch. Because this type of hitch places the tongue load of a trailer on the rear wheels of your vehicle, you must distribute the load in your trailer so that 10 to 15% of the total weight of the trailer is on the tongue.

Tie down the load so that it does not shift and change the weight on the hitch. This will prevent damage to your vehicle and make your vehicle easier to handle.

Connecting the safety chains

Always attach the trailer’s safety chains to your vehicle. They help protect your trailer if the hitch breaks.

To connect the trailer’s safety chains:

1. Cross the chains under the trailer tongue

and attach them to your vehicle’s frame or hook retainers. Never attach the safety chains to your vehicle’s bumper. The bumper is not designed to bear the weight of a trailer.

2. Make sure that you leave enough slack in

the chains to allow you to turn corners.

If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions that the rental agency gives you.

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Connecting the trailer’s brakes Electric brakes and manual, automatic, or surge-type hydraulic brakes are safe if you install them properly and adjust them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure that your trailer’s brakes meet local and federal regulations.

RWARNING

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

Connecting the trailer’s lights Do not connect a trailer’s lighting system wiring directly to your vehicle’s lighting system wiring. To get the proper equipment for hooking up your trailer’s lights, see your local trailer dealer and your Ford dealer. Be sure to follow their instructions carefully. If you do not install trailer lights correctly, you may cause damage to the vehicle’s lighting system.

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Driving While You Tow Be especially careful when driving while you tow a trailer. Never drive faster than 45 mph (70 km/h) when you tow in hilly country on hot days. Also, anticipate stops so that you can brake gradually. When you tow in steep hills, move the automatic transaxle to 1 (First) (vehicles without O/D OFF switch) or 2 (Second) (vehicles with O/D OFF switch) when descending. This will give more engine braking on downgrades. The automatic transaxle will automatically downshift to the proper gear on upgrades. If you tow in Overdrive while riding through hilly country, your vehicle may frequently shift between Overdrive and Third gears. To prevent your vehicle from shifting too much, move the gearshift to D (Drive) (column shift without O/D OFF switch) or push the O/D OFF switch (column or console shift). This will also give better braking going down hills. If you use the speed control while you are towing on very long, steep grades, the speed control may shut off. Servicing Your Vehicle When You Tow If you tow a trailer for a long distance, your vehicle will need to be serviced more frequently than usual. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule and Record booklet for additional information.

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Roadside Emergencies

If Your Vehicle Needs a Jump-Start Your vehicle’s battery may die if you leave the lights on or any electrical equipment on after you turn the engine off. If this happens, you may be able to jump-start your vehicle with a booster battery.

RWARNING

The gases around the battery can explode if exposed to flames, sparks, or lit cigarettes. An explosion could result in injury or vehicle damage.

RWARNING

To protect yourself when charging a battery, always shield your face and eyes. Make sure that you can breathe fresh air.

RWARNING

Applying too much pressure on the ends when lifting a battery could cause acid to spill. Lift the battery with a carrier or with your hands on the opposite corners.

RWARNING

Batteries contain sulfuric acid which burns skin, eyes, and clothing.

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If the acid touches someone’s skin, eyes, or clothing, immediately flush the area with water for at least 15 minutes. If someone swallows the acid, have him or her drink lots of milk or water first, then Milk of Magnesia, a beaten egg, or vegetable oil. Call a doctor immediately.

To avoid damaging your vehicle or your battery, and to avoid injury to yourself, follow these directions for preparing your vehicle to jump-start and connecting the jumper cables in the order they are given. If in doubt, call for road service. Preparing Your Vehicle

1. Your vehicle has a 12-volt starting system, so

you need to use a 12-volt jumper system. You will damage your starting motor, ignition system, and other electrical parts if you connect them to a 24-volt power supply (either two 12-volt batteries in series or a 24-volt generator set).

2. Do not disconnect the battery of the disabled

vehicle. You could damage the vehicle’s electrical system.

3. Park the booster vehicle close to the hood of the disabled vehicle. Make sure the vehicles do not touch each other. Set the parking brake on both vehicles and stay clear of the engine cooling fan and other moving parts.

4. Check all battery terminals and remove any

excessive corrosion before you attach the jumper cables.

5. Turn on the heater fan in both vehicles. If

you have electronic climate control, press the V F-DEF button. Turn off all other switches and lights.

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Connecting the jumper cables

1. Connect one end of the first jumper cable to

the positive (+) terminal of the discharged battery. (You can connect either jumper cable to the positive (+) terminal, as long as you use the same cable for both positive terminals.) Most jumper cables have a red cable and a black cable. The red cable is generally used for the positive terminals and the black for the negative ones.

2. Connect the other end of the first cable to

the positive (+) terminal of the booster battery.

3. Connect one end of the second cable to the negative (앥) terminal of the booster battery — NOT to the discharged battery.

4. Connect the other end of the second cable to

a good metallic surface on the engine or frame of the disabled vehicle.

RWARNING

Do not connect the end of the second cable to the negative (앥) terminal of the battery to be jumped. A spark may cause an explosion of the gases that surround the battery.

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Jumper cable connections

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The 3.4L SHO engine

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Jump-Starting

1. Make sure that the jumper cables are not in the way of moving engine parts, then start the booster vehicle. Run the engine at a moderate speed.

2. Let the discharged battery charge for a few minutes and then start the disabled vehicle. It may take a couple of tries before the vehicle starts. If the vehicle does not start after several attempts, there may be a different problem.

3. When both vehicles are running, let them

idle for a few minutes to charge the discharged battery.

Removing jumper cables

1. Always remove the jumper cables in the

reverse order. Remove the negative (앥) end of the jumper cable from the metallic surface on the engine or frame of the disabled vehicle.

2. Remove the negative (앥) cable from the

booster battery.

3. Remove the positive (+) cable from the

booster battery.

4. Remove the other end of the positive (+)

cable from the discharged battery.

After the vehicle is started, let it idle for a while to let the engine “relearn” its idle conditions. Drive it around for a while with all electrical accessories turned off to let the battery recharge. Driveability may be deteriorated slightly until all drive modes are “relearned.” You may need to use a battery charger to fully recharge the battery.

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*[RE04900(ALL)01/93]

If you need to replace your battery, see Battery in the Servicing Your Vehicle chapter. Changing a Tire If you get a flat tire while you are driving, do not apply the brake heavily. Instead, gradually decrease the speed. Hold the steering wheel firmly and slowly move to a safe place on the side of the road. Park on a level spot, turn off the ignition, set the parking brake, and turn on the hazard flashers.

NOTE: Tire sealants that are injected through

the valve stem are not to be used to service punctured tires because they can produce wheel rust and tire imbalance.

The Temporary Spare Tire

You may have a high pressure temporary spare tire. This spare tire is smaller than a regular tire and is designed for emergency use only. Use it only when you get a flat tire and replace it as soon as you can. This spare tire is marked with the words “TEMPORARY USE ONLY” so that you can easily identify it.

RWARNING

If you use the temporary spare tire continuously or do not follow these precautions, the tire could fail, causing you to lose control of the vehicle, possibly injuring yourself or others.

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%*[RE06000(ALL)03/95] [RE06100(ALL)04/95]

When you drive with the temporary spare tire, DO NOT:

exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) under any circumstances.

load your vehicle so that it is heavier than the maximum vehicle load rating listed on the tire decal.

tow a trailer.

q use tire chains on this tire.

try to repair the temporary spare tire or remove it from its wheel.

q use the wheel for any other type of vehicle. q drive through an automatic car wash with

this tire. Because the temporary spare tire is smaller than a conventional tire, it reduces the ground clearance. Your vehicle may get caught in the rails and it could be damaged. The Conventional Spare Tire (If equipped)

If you have the conventional spare tire, you can use it as a spare or as a regular tire. This spare tire is identical to the other tires that come with your vehicle, although the wheel may not match. Spare Tire Location

In a sedan, the spare tire is stored in the trunk under the floor carpet.

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The spare tire in the SHO

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The spare tire in the sedan

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In the wagon, the temporary spare tire is stored in the left side rear trim panel.

The temporary spare tire in the wagon

To remove the cover for the temporary spare tire in the wagon:

1. Twist the three fasteners 90 degrees into a

vertical position.

2. Lift the the cover to disengage the three

retainers.

3. Pull the front of the cover out slightly and remove the cover by sliding it toward the front of the vehicle.

4. Lift out the spare tire, jack, and lug wrench. Preparing to Change the Tire

You should only raise your vehicle with a jack properly placed at the front or rear jacking points.

1. Make sure that your vehicle will not move or roll. Put the gearshift in P (Park). Set the parking brake and block the wheel that is diagonally opposite the tire that you are changing.

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When one of the front wheels is off the ground, the transaxle alone will not prevent the vehicle from moving or slipping off the jack, even if the vehicle is in P (Park). To prevent the vehicle from moving when you change a tire, block (in both directions) the wheel that is diagonally opposite to the tire being changed.

RWARNING

If the vehicle slips off the jack, you or someone else could be seriously injured.

2. Get out the spare tire and jack.

RWARNING

To avoid injury, never run the engine with one wheel off the ground, such as when changing a tire.

3. Remove wheel covers or aluminum wheel

ornaments with the tapered end of a wheel nut wrench. Insert the handle of the wrench between the wheel and ornament and twist it against the inner wheel cover flange.

4. Loosen each wheel lug nut one-half turn

counterclockwise, but do not remove them until the tire is raised off the ground. You should pull up on the handle rather than push to develop maximum force to loosen wheel lug nuts. See Anti-Theft Wheel Lug Nuts later in this chapter for information on removing anti-theft lug nuts.

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Removing and Replacing the Tire 1. Find the jack notch next to the door of the tire that you are changing. Put the jack in the jack notch and turn the handle of the jack clockwise until the wheel is completely off the ground.

RWARNING

To lessen the risk of personal injury, do not put any part of your body under the vehicle while changing a tire. Do not start the engine when your vehicle is on the jack. The jack is only meant for changing the tire.

The notches for the jack

2. Remove the lug nuts by using a lug wrench.

Never loosen the hub nuts. See the picture later in this section if you are not sure where to find the lug nuts.

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Your vehicle has metric (12 mm) wheel studs and lug nuts. During wheel removal and replacement, make certain that you use the same lug nuts to reinstall the wheel or replace them with nuts of the same metric size and threading.

RWARNING

Installation of an English thread nut on a metric stud (or vice-versa) will not properly secure the wheel to the hub. Damaged studs may result in wheel separation and possible injury.

3. Replace the flat tire with the spare tire,

making sure that the air valve stem is facing outward.

4. Reinstall the lug nuts, tightening until the

wheel is snug against the hub. The beveled edges on the lug nuts face inward. Do not fully tighten the lug nuts until you lower the vehicle. If you do, you could force the vehicle off the jack.

5. Lower the vehicle by turning the jack handle

counterclockwise.

6. Remove the jack and fully tighten the lug nuts in the order shown in the following illustration. As soon as possible, have your dealer or a qualified service technician check the lug nuts for proper torque specifications.

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The lug nuts on the wheel

7. Place any wheel covers and ornaments in the

trunk.

8. Put the tire, jack, and wrench away. Make sure the jack is securely fastened so it does not rattle when you drive.

9. Unblock the wheels. Removing and Replacing Wheel Covers

Your vehicle may have wheel covers with a wire retention system.

To remove the wheel cover:

Pry it loose by carefully inserting the tapered end of the jack handle between the wheel cover and the wheel.

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To replace the wheel cover:

1. One of the windows on the wheel cover is

identified with a valve stem logo on the back side of the cover. Install the wheel cover to the wheel with the window at the valve stem.

2. Hold the wheel cover in this position and

press the cover onto the wheel with the palm of your hand. Do not force or hammer the cover.

Center Wheel Cover

To remove the wheel cover:

1. Pry the center ornament off the wheelcover with the lug wrench. Pry only at the notch. Do not use a screwdriver or any other tool, as this may damage the wheelcover or the surface finish.

2. Remove the center bolt on the wheelcover

with the lug wrench tip.

3. To remove the wheelcover, pry it loose by

carefully inserting the tapered end of the lug wrench between the wheelcover and wheel at the outer edge.

4. To service the wheel or tire, remove the

pedestal by removing the lug nuts. Put the pedestal in a safe place for reinstallation of the wheelcover.

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The center attachment wheel cover

To replace the wheel cover:

1. Reinstall the pedestal on the wheel before

reinstalling the wheelcover.

2. One of the windows on the wheelcover is

identified with a valve stem logo on the inside of the cover. Align this valve hole on the wheelcover with the valve stem on the wheel. Reinstall the cover by pressing with the palm of your hand. Do not use excessive force. Do not use a hammer.

3. Attach the bolt to the pedestal through the

center hole in the cover with the lug wrench.

4. Align the legs of the center ornament with the slots on the wheel cover. Reinstall the ornament by pressing with the palm of your hand. Do not use excessive force. Do not use a hammer.

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Anti-Theft Wheel Lug Nuts (If equipped)

If your vehicle has this feature, one of the lug nuts on each wheel lock must be removed and replaced with a special key. The key and registration card are attached to the lug wrench and stored with the spare tire. If you lose the key, send the registration card to the manufacturer (not to the dealer) to get a replacement key.

NOTE: If entire lug wrench/lug nut key

assembly is lost, see your nearest Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer who has access to a master set of keys.

DO NOT USE THE KEY WITH AN IMPACT WRENCH.

The anti-theft lug nut and key

The anti-theft lug nut and key (SHO only)

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Removing the anti-theft lug nut Insert the key over the locking lug nut. Make sure that you hold the key square to the lug nut. If you hold the key on an angle, you may damage the key and the lug nut. Place the lug nut wrench over the lug nut key and apply pressure on the key with the wrench. Turn the wrench in a counterclockwise direction to remove the lug nut. Reinstalling the anti-theft lug nut Insert the key over the locking lug nut. Place the lug nut wrench over the lug nut key and, while applying pressure on the key, install the lug nut. If the Engine Cranks But Does Not Start or Does Not Start After a Collision The Fuel Pump Shut-off Switch If the engine cranks but does not start or if you have had a collision, the fuel pump shut-off switch may have been triggered. The shut-off switch is a device that stops the fuel pump when your vehicle has been involved in a substantial jolt. For information on how to check and reset the fuel pump shut-off switch, see Fuel pump shut-off switch in the Index. Towing Your Vehicle If you need to have your vehicle towed, contact a professional towing service or, if you are a member, your roadside assistance center. Your Taurus should be towed from the front unless conditions do not allow it. It is recommended that your vehicle be towed with wheel lift or flatbed equipment.

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When calling for a tow truck, tell the operator what kind of vehicle you have. A towing manual is available from Ford Motor Company for all authorized tow truck operators. Have your tow truck driver refer to this manual for the proper hook-up and towing procedures for your vehicle.

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*[RE19000(ALL)08/95]

Towing Your Vehicle Behind Another Vehicle At times, you may want to tow your vehicle behind another vehicle, such as a recreational vehicle, a car, or a truck. Before you have your vehicle towed: q Release the parking brake. q Move the gearshift to N (Neutral). q Turn the key in the ignition to OFF. q Unlock the steering wheel. Do not tow your vehicle at a speed faster than 35 mph (56 km/h) or for a distance greater than 50 miles (80 km), unless the drive wheels are placed on dollies.

RWARNING

Never use a tow bar that attaches to the bumper when you tow your vehicle. This could damage the bumper and cause an accident.

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Customer Assistance

Roadside Assistance Ford Motor Company has set up a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week hotline with trained operators who put you in touch with the help you need if you experience a problem with your vehicle. This complimentary service is provided to you throughout your warranty period of 3 years or 36,000 miles (60,000 km), whichever comes first. To purchase Roadside Assistance coverages beyond this period (available through Ford Auto Club in the United States or Ford and Lincoln-Mercury dealers in Canada), contact your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. Additional Roadside Assistance coverage is unavailable in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

Roadside Assistance will cover the following: q Mount your spare if you have a flat tire.

Jump-start your battery if it is dead.

q Unlock your vehicle if you are locked out. q Bring you fuel if you run out. q Tow your vehicle if you are stranded. Even non-warranty related tows, like accidents or getting stuck in mud or snow, are covered (some exclusions apply, such as impound towing and repossession).

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How to use Roadside Assistance

Your Roadside Assistance identification card can be found in the Owner Guide portfolio in your glove compartment. Complete the card and place it in your wallet for quick reference.

To receive roadside assistance in the United States call 1-800-241-FORD (in Canada call 1-800-665-2006).

Should you need to arrange for roadside assistance yourself, Ford Motor Company will reimburse the reasonable cost. To obtain information about reimbursement call 1-800-241-FORD (in Canada call 1-800-665-2006). If You Have a Service Problem Ford Motor Company has authorized Ford and Lincoln-Mercury dealerships that can service your vehicle for you. This chapter tells you how to get service or maintenance for your vehicle. Service/Maintenance Concerns (U.S. or Canada)

Ford recommends taking your vehicle to your selling dealer who wants to ensure your continued satisfaction. You may, however, take your vehicle to any authorized Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. In most cases, your dealer will be able to resolve your concern.

If you are not satisfied with the service you received from your dealership’s service department, talk to the service manager at the dealership, or if you still are not satisfied, talk to the owner or general manager of the dealership. In most cases, you will have your concern resolved at this level.

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If you are away from home when your vehicle needs to be serviced, or if you need more help than the dealer gave you, contact the Ford Customer Assistance Center to find an authorized dealership that may be able to help.

If you live in the U.S. and have any questions or concerns that the dealership cannot answer, contact the Customer Assistance Center.

If you live in Canada and have any questions or concerns that the dealership cannot answer, contact the Customer Assistance Centre.

Please have the following information available when contacting the Customer Assistance Centre:

your telephone number (both business and home)

the name of the dealer and the city where the dealership is located

the year and make of your vehicle

the date purchased

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*[HS02700(ALL)08/95]

the current mileage on your vehicle

your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) listed on your owner card and/or your vehicle ownership license

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN/Serial Number)

If you still have a service or product complaint, you may wish to contact the Dispute Settlement Board (U.S. only) or the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP) in Canada. The Dispute Settlement Board (U.S. Only) The Dispute Settlement Board is a voluntary, independent dispute-settlement program available free to owners or lessees of qualifying Ford Motor Company vehicles.

The Dispute Settlement Board may not be available in all states. Ford Motor Company reserves the right to change eligibility limitations, modify procedures and/or to discontinue this process at any time without notice and without incurring obligations. What Kind of Cases Does the Board Review? The Board reviews unresolved warranty performance complaints on Ford, Mercury and Lincoln cars and Ford and Mercury Light Trucks under warranty that have not been resolved by a dealer or Ford Motor Company.

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*[HS03300(ALL)01/95] *[HS03400(ALL)01/95] *[HS03450(ALL)01/95]

*[HS03500(ALL)01/95] *[HS03600(ALL)01/95]

*[HS03650(ALL)01/95]

*[HS03700(ALL)04/95] *[HS03800(ALL)04/95] *[HS03900(ALL)04/95] *[HS04000(ALL)04/95] *[HS04200(ALL)04/95]

The Board does not review issues involving: q A non-Ford product q A non-Ford dealership q A vehicle sales transaction q A request for reimbursement of consequential

expenses unless incidental to a service or product complaint being reviewed Items not covered by your warranty

q Alleged liability claims q Property damage where such damage is

significant when compared to the economic loss alleged under the warranty dispute

q Cases currently in litigation q Vehicles not used primarily for personal,

family, or household purposes

NOTE: Complaints involving vehicles on

which applicable express written new vehicle warranties have expired at receipt of your application are not eligible. Eligibility may differ according to state law. For example, see the unique brochure for California purchasers/lessees.

How Does the Board Work? The Board has four members:

three consumer representatives a Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer

Consumer candidates for Board membership are recruited and trained by an independent consulting firm. Dealers are chosen because of their business leadership qualities.

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*[HS04300(ALL)04/95]

*[HS04350(ALL)04/95]

*[HS04400(ALL)04/95]

*[HS04500(ALL)04/95]

*[HS04600(ALL)04/95]

If the involved vehicle is within 36 months and 36,000 miles of the date of delivery (warranty start date), you have a right to make an oral presentation before the Board by indicating your choice on the application. Also, oral presentations may be requested by the Board. A decision is made by the Board by simple majority vote.

Board members review all the materials related to each complaint and, based on the available information, arrive at a fair and impartial decision. Decisions are based on the written statements and any oral presentations made by each of the involved parties.

Because the Board usually meets only once a month, some cases will take longer than 30 days to be reviewed. The Board will make every effort to resolve each case within 40 days after it receives the customer application form.

After your case has been reviewed, the Board will mail you its decision in writing. It will also provide you with a form to indicate your acceptance or rejection of an award decision. The decisions of the Board are binding on the dealer and Ford, but customers may have other options available to them under state or federal law.

The decisions of the Board, however, may be introduced into evidence by any party in subsequent legal proceedings that may be initiated.

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*[HS04700(ALL)01/95] *[HS04800(ALL)04/95]

*[HS04900(ALL)02/93]

one inch art:0060102-B

*[HS05100(ALL)04/95] *[HS05200(ALL)04/95]

*[HS05300(ALL)04/95]

*[HS05400(ALL)04/95]

*[HS05500(ALL)08/95]

*[HS05600(ALL)04/95] *[HS05700(ALL)04/95]

*[HS05800(ALL)04/95]

How Do You Contact the Board?

Write to the Board at the following address to request a brochure/application. You will be sent a brochure and a one-page customer application form. The form should be completed and mailed to the same address.

What is the Review Process?