2004 Ford Taurus Owners Manual

electrical loads as possible. If the warning stays on or comes on when the engine is operating at normal speeds, have the electrical system checked as soon as possible. OIL PRESSURE LOW. Displayed when the engine oil level is low. If this warning message is displayed, check the level of the engine oil. Refer to Engine oil in the Maintenance and specifications chapter for information about adding engine oil. CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM. Displayed when the brake system needs servicing. If the warning stays on or continues to come on, contact your dealer as soon as possible. LOW BRAKE FLUID. Indicates the brake fluid level is low and the brake system should be inspected immediately. Refer to Checking and adding brake fluid in the Maintenance and specifications chapter. LIFTGATE AJAR (if equipped). Displayed when the liftgate is not completely closed. CHECK TRACTION CONTROL (if equipped). Displayed when the Traction Control娂 system is not operating properly. If this warning stays on, contact your dealer for service as soon as possible. For further information, refer to Traction control娂 in the Driving chapter.

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DATA ERR. These messages indicate improper operation of the vehicle network communication between electronic modules. • Fuel computer • Charging system • Coolant system • Traction control (if equipped) • Door sensor • Brake fluid • Compass (if equipped) • Outside temperature (if equipped) • Engine sensor • Transmission sensor • Fuel cap sensor • Seat belt sensor • Park brake • Oil pressure sensor Contact your dealer as soon as possible if these messages occur on a regular basis.

CENTER CONSOLE Your vehicle may be equipped with a variety of console features. These include: • Utility compartment • Bin mat (snap-in) • Cupholders (front and rear) • Coin holder slots • Compact disc changer (if equipped) • Tissue holder • Rear A/C vent • Rear ashtray (see your Ford, Lincoln Mercury dealer to obtain rear

ashtray

Use only soft cups in the cupholder. Hard objects can injure you in a collision.

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If your vehicle is equipped with the column shift and a bench seat, it has a center console in the center front seating position. The center console has similar features as the full console. To open the storage compartment, raise the armrest and pull the strap on the seat up and toward the front of the vehicle. The rear seat area is provided with dual cupholders.

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.

POSITIVE RETENTION FLOOR MAT Position the driver floor mat so that the eyelet is over the pointed end of the retention post and rotate forward to lock in. Make sure that the mat does not interfere with the operation of the accelerator or the brake pedal. To remove the floor mat, reverse the installation procedure.

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INTERIOR TRUNK CONTROL (IF EQUIPPED) Press the remote trunk release control on the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel.

LIFTGATE (WAGON ONLY) You can open and close the liftgate and the liftgate window from outside the vehicle. It cannot be opened from inside the cargo area. • To open the liftgate window, unlock the liftgate (with the key, the power door locks or the remote entry transmitter) and push the key lock cylinder. • To open the liftgate, unlock the liftgate and pull up on the handle under the license plate lamp shield.

To lock the liftgate and the liftgate window, press the lock button down on the inside of the liftgate, use the key, the power door locks, or the remote entry key fob. The liftgate and liftgate window should be closed before driving your vehicle. If not, possible damage may occur to the liftgate lift cylinders and attaching hardware.

CARGO AREA FEATURES

Storage compartment (Wagon) Your vehicle comes equipped with a storage compartment in the floor of the cargo area. An additional compartment is in the rear trim panel on the right. Always put the load you are carrying as far forward as possible.

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Cargo net (if equipped) (Wagon) The cargo net secures lightweight objects in the cargo area. Attach the net to the anchors provided. Do not put more than 22 kg (50 lbs.) in the net.

This net is not designed to restrain objects during a

collision.

Cargo cover (if equipped) Your vehicle may be equipped with a cargo area shade that covers the luggage compartment of your vehicle. To install the shade: 1. Fasten the cover into the mounting brackets (make sure the cover is right side up). 2. Pull the end of the shade toward you and hook the sides into the notches (right side first) in the rear trim panels.

To reduce the risk of injuries, the fasteners for cargo area cover must be properly attached to the mounting clips on the rear trim

panels.

Do not place any objects on the cargo area cover. They may obstruct your vision or strike occupants of the vehicle in the

case of a sudden stop or collision.

The cover may cause injury in a sudden stop or accident if it is not securely installed.

Rewinding the shade With extended use, the cargo shade may lose its spring tension. If this occurs, the shade must be manually rewound. This is a two-person operation.

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1. Remove the shade from the vehicle and extend it with the smooth grain facing you. 2. Wrap the vinyl around the roller tube twice. Tuck the edges of the vinyl inside the end cap with each wrap. 3. Fold the edges of the vinyl towards the center, making sure that the edges clear the end cap slots. Use tape or a rubber band to hold the vinyl to the left side of the tube.

4. Push in the right end cap (marked RH) about 1⁄4 of the total length to disengage the clutch and hold the end cap in while turning the roller tube toward you 14 times. 5. Let go of the right end cap. The clutch will now engage and stop the shade from losing its spring tension. 6. Unfold the vinyl and place it into the end cap slots. 7. Insert the shade into the side mounting brackets and check to make sure that it operates properly.

The cover may cause injury in a sudden stop or accident if it is not securely installed.

Cargo utility hooks (Sedan) The utility hooks located inside the trunk can be used to attach a cargo net to secure lightweight objects or hang small items on. Do not hang more than 12 kg (20 lbs) on the hooks.

The hooks are not designed to restrain objects during a collision.

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LUGGAGE RACK (IF EQUIPPED) The rear cross-bar can be adjusted to fit the item being carried. The front cross-bar does not move. Do not load more than 44 kg (100 lbs.) on the luggage rack. To adjust cross-bar position: 1. Loosen the thumbwheel at both ends of the cross-bar. 2. Slide the cross-bar to the desired location. 3. Tighten the thumbwheel at both ends of the cross-bar. Use adjustable tie down loops to secure the load.

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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. Refer to SecuriLock娂 Passive Anti-Theft System for more information.

POWER DOOR LOCKS Press control to unlock or lock all doors.

Power door lock disable feature (if equipped) The UNLOCK inside the vehicle when: • the ignition has been turned to the 3 (OFF) position, and • 20 seconds elapse after all vehicle doors are closed and locked using

feature on your power door locks will not work from

the remote entry transmitter, the keyless entry pad, or the power door lock control (while the accompanying door is open).

feature will work again after:

The UNLOCK • a door has become ajar, • the ignition is turned to the 4 (ON) position, or • using the UNLOCK

control on your remote entry transmitter or

unlocking via the keyless entry keypad.

Deactivating/activating power door lock disable feature You must complete Steps 1-7 within 30 seconds or the procedure will have to be repeated. If the procedure needs to be repeated, you must wait 30 seconds. 1. Turn the ignition key to the 4 (ON) position. 2. Press the power door unlock control three times. 3. Turn the ignition key from the 4 (ON) to the 3 (OFF) position.

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4. Press the power door unlock control three times. 5. Turn the ignition back to the 4 (ON) position. The horn will chirp. 6. Press the unlock control, then press the lock control. Note: The horn will chirp twice if autolock was deactivated or chirp twice then honk (two short and one long chirp) if autolock was activated. 7. Press the power door unlock control and then the lock control again in order to toggle the autolock/relock states. 8. Turn the ignition to the 3 (OFF) position. The horn will chirp once to confirm the procedure is complete.

Childproof door locks • When these locks are set, the

rear doors cannot be opened from the inside.

• The rear doors can be opened

from the outside when the doors are unlocked.

The childproof locks are located on rear edge of each rear door and must be set separately for each door. Setting the lock for one door will not automatically set the lock for both doors. • Move lock control up to engage the childproof lock. • Move control down to disengage childproof locks.

INTERIOR LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT RELEASE Your vehicle is equipped with a mechanical interior luggage compartment release handle that provides a means of escape for children and adults in the event they become locked inside the luggage compartment. Adults are advised to familiarize themselves with the operation and location of the release handle.

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To open the luggage compartment door (lid) from within the luggage compartment, pull the illuminated “T” shaped handle and push up on the trunk lid. The handle is composed of a material that will glow for hours in darkness following brief exposure to ambient light. The “T” shaped handle will be located either on the luggage compartment door (lid) or inside the luggage compartment near the tail lamps.

Keep vehicle doors and luggage compartment

locked and keep keys and remote transmitters out of a child’s reach. Unsupervised children could lock themselves in the trunk and risk injury. Children should be taught not to play in vehicles.

On hot days, the temperature in the trunk or vehicle interior can rise very quickly. Exposure of people or animals to these high

temperatures for even a short time can cause death or serious heat-related injuries, including brain damage. Small children are particularly at risk.

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.

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Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. The typical operating range for your remote entry transmitter is approximately 10 meters (33 feet). A decrease in operating range could be caused by: • weather conditions, • nearby radio towers, • structures around the vehicle, or • other vehicles parked next to your vehicle. The remote entry system allows you to: • lock or unlock all vehicle doors, • open the trunk or the liftgate, • sound the panic alarm. 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

and release again within three seconds to unlock all the

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

Unlocking the doors 1. Press lamps will illuminate. 2. Press doors and the liftgate (wagon). The remote entry system comes with an illuminated entry feature. This feature turns on the interior lamps for 25 seconds or until the ignition is turned to the the 4 (ON) position. If the dome lamp control is in the off position the illuminated entry feature will not work. The inside lights will not turn off if: • they have been turned on using the dimmer control or • any door is open. The battery saver feature will turn off the interior lamps 10 minutes after the ignition is turned to the 3 (OFF) position.

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Locking the doors 1. Press and release to lock all the doors and liftgate (wagon), turn off the interior lamps (if they were on) and arm the anti-theft system. Note: The parklamps will flash once if all doors and liftgate (wagon) are closed. and release again within three seconds to confirm that all the 2. Press doors and liftgate are closed and locked. Note: The doors will lock again, the horn will chirp once, and the parklamps will flash once. If any of the doors or liftgate (wagon) are not properly closed the horn will make two quick chirps, and the parklamps will not flash. As soon as all vehicle doors and the liftgate (wagon) are closed, the parklamps will flash once to confirm that all doors and liftgate (wagon) are closed.

to activate the alarm. Both the horn will sound and the

Sounding a panic alarm Press parklamps will flash for a maximum of 30 seconds. Press again or turn the ignition to the 4 (ON) position to deactivate, or wait for the alarm to timeout in 3 minutes. Note: The panic alarm will only operate when the ignition is in the 1
(ACCESSORY), 2 (LOCK) or 3 (OFF) position.

Opening the trunk Press

once to open the trunk or liftgate (wagon).

Replacing the battery The remote entry transmitter uses one coin type three-volt lithium battery CR2032 or equivalent. 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 RUBBER COVER AND CIRCUIT BOARD OFF THE FRONT HOUSING OF THE REMOTE ENTRY TRANSMITTER.

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2. Do not wipe off any grease on the battery terminals on the back surface of the circuit board.

3. Remove the old battery. 4. Insert the new battery. Refer to the diagram inside the remote entry transmitter for the correct orientation of the battery. Press the battery down to ensure that the battery is fully seated in the battery housing cavity. 5. 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. 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 2 (LOCK) position to 3 (OFF).

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4. Cycle eight times rapidly (within 10 seconds) between the 3 (OFF) position and 4 (ON). Note: The eighth turn must end in the 4 (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 3 (OFF) position after you have finished programming all of the remote entry transmitters. Note: After 20
seconds, you will automatically exit the programming mode. 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 is turned to the 4 (ON) position, or • the remote transmitter lock control is pressed, or • the vehicle is locked using the keyless entry keypad (if equipped), 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. The battery saver will shut off the interior lamps 10 minutes after the ignition has been turned to the 3 (OFF) position. Perimeter lamps illuminated entry The exterior lamps illuminate when the vehicle is unlocked using the remote entry system.

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On vehicles equipped with the autolamps feature, the following items will illuminate: • Puddle lamps (if equipped) • Head lamps • Park lamps • Tail lamps On vehicles not equipped with the autolamps feature, only the following items will illuminate: • Puddle lamps (if equipped) • Park lamps • Tail lamps The system will automatically turn off if: • the ignition switch is turned to the 4 (ON) position, or • the remote entry transmitter lock control is pressed, or • the vehicle is locked using the keyless entry keypad (if equipped), or • after 25 seconds of illumination. Deactivating/activating perimeter lamps You may enable/disable this feature by having your vehicle serviced by your authorized dealer. You may also perform the following power door lock sequence to enable/disable the perimeter lamps feature: 1. Turn the ignition to the 4 (ON) position, then press the power door unlock control 3 times. 2. Turn the ignition to the 3 (OFF) position, then press the power door unlock control 3 times. 3. Turn the ignition to the 4 (ON) position, and within five seconds press the power door unlock control 2 times. Note: The horn will chirp twice if the perimeter lamps feature was deactivated, or chirp twice then honk (two shorts, followed by one long) if the feature was activated. 4. Turn the ignition to the 3 (OFF) position to exit the procedure. Note: The horn will chirp once to confirm the procedure is complete. Note: The puddle lamps (if equipped) cannot be deactivated; performing this procedure will only deactivate the head, park and tail lamps.

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1 2

5 6

3 4

using a key.

KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED) You can use the keyless entry keypad to: • lock or unlock the doors without • open the trunk or liftgate (wagon). • activate or deactivate the autolock feature. The keypad can be operated with the factory set 5–digit entry code; this code is located on the owner’s wallet card in the glove box, is marked on the computer module, and is available from your authorized dealer. You can also create your own 5–digit personal entry code. When pressing the controls on the keypad, press the middle of the controls to ensure a good activation.

9 0

7 8

Programming a personal entry code To create your own personal entry code: 1. Enter the factory set code. Note: The keyless entry keypad and interior lights will illuminate and the driver’s door will unlock. 2. Within five seconds press the 1 • 2 on the keypad. 3. Enter your personal 5-digit code. Each number must be entered within five seconds of each other. 4. The doors will again lock then unlock, to confirm that your personal keycode has been programmed to the module. Tips: • Do not set a code that uses five of the same number. • Do not use five numbers in sequential order. • The factory set code will work even if you have set your own personal • If you set a second personal code it will erase your first personal code. Note: To exit programming mode, either wait 5 seconds after pressing 1
• 2 on the keypad, or press the 7 • 8 and 9 • 0 pads simultaneously to lock all vehicle doors and end programming mode.

code.

Erasing personal codes 1. Enter the factory set 5–digit code. The keyless entry keypad and interior lights will illuminate and the driver’s door will unlock. 2. Press and release the 1 • 2 within five seconds of completing step 1. 81

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Locks and Security 3. Press and hold the 1 • 2 for two seconds to erase the customer programmed codes. All personal codes are now erased and only the factory set 5–digit code will work. Note: To exit programming mode, either wait 5 seconds after pressing 1
• 2 on the keypad, or press the 7 • 8 and 9 • 0 pads simultaneously to lock all vehicle doors and end programming mode.

Unlocking and locking the doors using keyless entry To unlock the driver’s door, enter the factory set 5-digit code or your personal code. Each number must be pressed within five seconds of each other. The interior lamps will illuminate. To unlock all doors and the liftgate (wagon), enter the factory set code or your personal code, then press the 3 • 4 control within five seconds. To open the trunk or unlock the liftgate (wagon), enter the factory set code or your personal code, then press the 5 • 6 control within five seconds. To lock all doors, press the 7 • 8 and the 9 • 0 at the same time. You do not need to enter the keypad code first.

Autolock (if equipped) This feature automatically locks all vehicle doors when the following conditions are met: • all the doors are closed, • the engine is running, • you shift into gear, putting the vehicle in motion, and. • the vehicle’s speed is greater than 5 km/h (3 mph). Relock The autolock feature repeats when the following conditions are met: • any door is opened then closed while the engine is running, and • you shift into gear, putting the vehicle in motion, and • the vehicle’s speed is greater than 5 km/h (3 mph). To deactivate/reactivate the autolock feature using the power door unlock control You must complete Steps 1-7 within 30 seconds or the procedure will have to be repeated. If the procedure needs to be repeated, you must wait 30 seconds. 1. Turn the ignition key to the 4 (ON) position.

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2. Press the power door unlock control three times. 3. Turn the ignition key from the 4 (ON) to the 3 (OFF) position. 4. Press the power door unlock control three times. 5. Turn the ignition back to the 4 (ON) position. The horn will chirp. 6. Press the unlock control, then press the lock control. Note: The horn will chirp twice if autolock was deactivated or chirp twice then honk (two short and one long chirp) if autolock was activated. 7. Press the power door unlock control and then the lock control again in order to toggle the autolock/relock states. 8. Turn the ignition to the 3 (OFF) position. The horn will chirp once to confirm the procedure is complete.

SECURILOCK姟 PASSIVE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM SecuriLock娂 passive anti-theft system is an engine immobilization system. This system is designed to prevent the engine from being started unless a coded key programmed to your vehicle is used. The use of the wrong type of coded key may lead to a “no-start” condition. Your vehicle comes with two coded keys; additional coded keys may be purchased from your dealer. The dealer can program your spare keys to your vehicle or you can program the keys yourself. Refer to Programming spare keys for instructions on how to program the coded key. Note: The SecuriLock娂 passive anti-theft system is not compatible with non-Ford aftermarket remote start systems. Use of these systems may result in vehicle starting problems and a loss of security protection. Note: Large metallic objects, electronic devices that are used to purchase gasoline or similar items, or a second coded key on the same key chain may cause vehicle starting issues. You need to prevent these objects from touching the coded key while starting the engine. These objects will not cause damage to the coded key, but may cause a momentary issue if they are too close to the key when starting the engine. If a problem occurs, turn the ignition off, remove all objects on the key chain away from the coded key and restart the engine.

Theft indicator The theft indicator is located in the instrument cluster. • When the ignition is in the 2 (LOCK) position, the indicator will flash

once every 2 seconds to indicate the SecuriLock娂 system is functioning as a theft deterrent.

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Locks and Security • When the ignition is in the 4 (ON) position, the indicator will glow for

3 seconds, then turn off to indicate normal system functionality.

If a problem occurs with the SecuriLock娂 system, the indicator will flash rapidly or glow steadily when the ignition is in the 4 (ON) position. If this occurs, the vehicle should be taken to an authorized dealer for service. Automatic arming The vehicle is armed immediately after switching the ignition to the 3
(OFF) position. The THEFT indicator will flash every two seconds when the vehicle is armed.

Automatic disarming Switching the ignition to the 4 (ON) position with a coded key disarms the vehicle. • The THEFT indicator will illuminate for three seconds and then go out. • If the THEFT indicator stays on for an extended period of time or

flashes rapidly, have the system serviced by your dealer.

Replacement keys If your keys are lost or stolen and you don’t have an extra coded key, you will need to have your vehicle towed to a dealership. The key codes need to be erased from your vehicle and new coded keys will need to be programmed. Replacing coded keys can be very costly. Store an extra programmed key away from the vehicle in a safe place to help prevent any inconveniences. Please visit an authorized dealer to purchase additional spare or replacement keys. Programming spare keys You can program your own coded keys to your vehicle. Please read and understand the entire procedure before you begin. Tips: • A maximum of eight keys can be coded to your vehicle. • Only use Securilock娂 keys. • You must have two previously programmed coded keys (keys that already operate your vehicle’s engine) and the new unprogrammed key(s) readily accessible.

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Locks and Security • If no previously programmed coded keys are available, you must take

your vehicle to your dealer to have the spare key(s) programmed.

1. Insert a previously programmed coded key into the ignition. 2. Turn the ignition from the 3 (OFF) position to the 4 (ON) position. Keep the ignition in the 4 (ON) position for at least one second, but no more than 10 seconds. 3. Turn the ignition to the 3 (OFF) position, and remove the coded key from the ignition. 4. Within ten seconds of removing the previously programmed coded key, insert the other previously programmed coded key into the ignition. 5. Turn the ignition from the 3 (OFF) position to the 4 (ON) position. Keep the ignition in the 4 (ON) position for at least one second but not more than 10 seconds. 6. Turn the ignition to the 3 (OFF) position, and remove the second key from the ignition. 7. Within twenty seconds of removing the previously programmed coded key, insert the unprogrammed key (new/valet key) into the ignition. 8. Turn the ignition from the 3 (OFF) position to the 4 (ON) position. Keep the ignition in the 4 (ON) position for at least one second. 9. Your new unprogrammed key is now programmed. If the key has been successfully programmed it will start the vehicle’s engine and the theft indicator light will illuminate for three seconds and then go out. If the key was not successfully programmed, it will not start your vehicle’s engine and the theft indicator light will flash on and off rapidly. If failure repeats, bring your vehicle to your dealer to have the new key(s) programmed. To program additional new unprogrammed key(s), repeat this procedure from Step 1 for each additional key.

PERIMETER ALARM SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED) The perimeter anti-theft system will warn you in the event of an unauthorized entry to your vehicle. If there is any potential perimeter anti-theft problem with your vehicle, ensure ALL remote entry transmitters are taken to the dealership to aid in troubleshooting.

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equipped) at the same time.

control on the remote entry transmitter.

Arming the system When armed, this system will respond if unauthorized entry is attempted. When unauthorized entry occurs, the system will flash the headlamps and/or parking lamps and will sound the horn. The system is ready to arm whenever key is removed from the ignition. Either of the following actions will prearm the alarm system: • Press the • Press the 7 • 8 and the 9 • 0 on the keyless entry keypad (if • Open a door and press the power door lock control to lock all the doors. Note: The hood, each door and the liftgate (wagon) arm individually, and if any of them are open, they must be closed in order to be armed. When you press the control on the remote entry transmitter twice within three seconds: • the horn will chirp twice to indicate the hood, each door and the • the horn will chirp twice to indicate that either the hood, a door or

liftgate (wagon) are closed.

the liftgate (wagon) is still open.

transmitter.

Disarming the system You can disarm the system by any of the following actions: • Unlock the doors by pressing the • Unlock the doors by using the keyless entry pad. • Unlock the doors with a key. Turn the key full travel (toward the front • Turn the ignition to the 4 (ON) position. • Press the

control on the remote entry transmitter. This will only

of the vehicle) to ensure the alarm disarms.

control on your remote entry

shut the horn off when the alarm is sounding; the alarm system will still be armed.

Triggering the anti-theft system The armed system will be triggered if: • Any door, liftgate (wagon) or the hood is opened without using the • The trunk key cylinder is forced.

key or the remote entry transmitter.

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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.

Adjustable head restraints (if equipped) Head restraints help to limit head motion in the event of a rear collision. The seats in your vehicle may have adjustable head restraints. Adjust your head restraint so that it is located directly or as close as possible behind your head. Raise the head restraint by pulling it upward.

To lower the head restraint: • Push the release control. • Push down on the head restraint.

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Using the manual lumbar support (if equipped) The lumbar control is located on the front of the seat cushion. Turn to adjust lumbar support.

Adjusting the front manual seat (if equipped)

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.

Pull lever up to adjust seatback.

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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.

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

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

REAR SEATS 2nd seat/Split-folding rear seat (if equipped) Fold the seatback(s) down.

When raising the seatback(s), make sure you hear the seat latch into place.

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Make sure that the safety belt for the rear center passenger is properly routed over the rear seatback.

3rd seat (if equipped) (wagon only) The third seat faces the rear of the vehicle. For height and weight limits, see the label on the seat cushion. When the seat is down, the back of your wagon has a flat surface for carrying cargo. To open up the seat: 1. Unlock the floor panel with the key, then use the handle to fold the floor panel toward the front of the car. 2. Remove the cargo cover. The cargo cover must be removed or the seatback will not latch in the upright position.

3. Lift the remote latch release on the left side of the compartment and fold the remaining floor panel until it latches. Make sure the seatback is locked in the upright position.

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To close the seat, make sure the safety belts are properly stowed, then lift the remote latch release and push the seat down until it latches. Pull up on the handle and push the floor panel into place.

SAFETY RESTRAINTS

Personal Safety System The Personal Safety System provides an improved overall level of frontal crash protection to front seat occupants and is designed to help further reduce the risk of air bag-related injuries. The system is able to analyze different occupant classifications and conditions and crash severity before activating the appropriate safety devices to help better protect a range of occupants in a variety of frontal crash situations. Your vehicle’s Personal Safety System consists of: • Driver and passenger dual-stage air bag supplemental restraints. • Front safety belts with pretensioners, energy management retractors, and safety belt usage sensors. • Driver’s seat position sensor. • Front crash severity sensor. • Front passenger sensing system • Passenger Air Bag Off indicator light. • Restraints Control Module (RCM) with impact and safing sensors. • Restraint system warning light and back-up tone. • The electrical wiring for the air bags, crash sensor(s), safety belt pretensioners, front safety belt usage sensors, driver seat position sensor, and indicator lights.

How does the personal safety system work? The Personal Safety System can adapt the deployment strategy of your vehicle’s safety devices according to crash severity and occupant classification and conditions. A collection of crash and occupant sensors provides information to the Restraints Control Module (RCM). During a crash, the RCM activates the safety belt pretensioners and/or either none, one, or both stages of the dual-stage air bag supplemental restraints based on crash severity and occupant classification and conditions. The fact that the pretensioners or air bags did not activate for both front seat occupants in a collision does not mean that something is wrong with

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the system. Rather, it means the Personal Safety System determined the accident conditions (crash severity, belt usage, etc.) were not appropriate to activate these safety devices. Front air bags and pretensioners are designed to activate only in frontal and near-frontal collisions, not rollovers, side-impacts, or rear-impacts unless the collision causes sufficient longitudinal deceleration. Driver and passenger dual-stage air bag supplemental restraints The dual-stage air bags offer the capability to tailor the level of air bag inflation energy. A lower, less forceful energy level is provided for more common, moderate-severity impacts. A higher energy level is used for the most severe impacts. Refer to Air bag Supplemental Restraints section in this chapter. Front crash severity sensor The front crash severity sensor enhances the ability to detect the severity of an impact. Positioned up front, it provides valuable information early in the crash event on the severity of the impact. This allows your Personal Safety System to distinguish between different levels of crash severity and modify the deployment strategy of the dual-stage air bags and safety belt pretensioners. Driver’s seat position sensor The driver’s seat position sensor allows your Personal Safety System to tailor the deployment level of the driver dual-stage air bag based on seat position. The system is designed to help protect smaller drivers sitting close to the driver air bag by providing a lower air bag output level. Front passenger sensing system For air bags to do their job they must inflate with great force, and this force can pose a potentially deadly risk to occupants that are very close to the air bag when it begins to inflate. For some occupants, like infants in rear-facing child seats, this occurs because they are initially sitting very close to the air bag. For other occupants, this occurs when the occupant is not properly restrained by seat belts or child safety seats and they move forward during pre-crash braking. The most effective way to reduce the risk of unnecessary injuries is to make sure all occupants are properly restrained. Accident statistics suggest that children are much safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front.

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

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

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

The front passenger sensing system can automatically turn off the passenger front air bag. The system is designed to help protect small (child size) occupants from air bag deployments when they are improperly seated or restrained in the front passenger seat contrary to proper child-seating or restraint usage recommendations. Even with this technology, parents are STRONGLY encouraged to always properly restrain children in the rear seat. The sensor also turns off the air bag when the passenger seat is empty to prevent unnecessary replacement of the air bag(s) after a collision. When the front passenger seat is occupied and the sensing system has turned off the passenger’s frontal air bag, the “pass air bag off” indicator will light and stay lit to remind you that the front passenger frontal air bag is off. See Front passenger sensing system in the airbags section of this chapter. Front safety belt usage sensors The front safety belt usage sensors detect whether or not the driver and front outboard passenger safety belts are fastened. This information allows your Personal Safety System to tailor the air bag deployment and safety belt pretensioner activation depending upon safety belt usage. Refer to Safety Belt section in this chapter. Front safety belt pretensioners The safety belt pretensioners are designed to tighten the front outboard safety belts firmly against the occupant’s body during a collision. This maximizes the effectiveness of the safety belts and helps properly position the occupant relative to the air bag to improve protection. The safety belt pretensioners can be either activated alone or, if the collision is of sufficient severity, together with the air bags. Front safety belt energy management retractors The front outboard safety belt energy management retractors allow webbing to be pulled out of the retractor in a gradual and controlled

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manner in response to the occupant’s forward momentum. This helps reduce the risk of force-related injuries to the occupant’s chest by limiting the load on the occupant. Refer to Safety Belt section in this chapter. Determining if the Personal Safety System is operational The Personal Safety System uses a warning light in the instrument cluster or a back-up tone to indicate the condition of the system. Refer to the Warning Light section in the Instrument Cluster chapter. Routine maintenance of the Personal Safety System is not required. The Restraints Control Module (RCM) monitors its own internal circuits and the circuits for the air bag supplemental restraints, crash sensor(s), safety belt pretensioners, front safety belt buckle sensors, and the driver seat position sensor. In addition, the RCM also monitors the restraints warning light in the instrument cluster. A difficulty with the system is indicated by one or more of the following. • The warning light will either flash or stay lit. • The warning light will not illuminate immediately after ignition is • A series of five beeps will be heard. The tone pattern will repeat

turned on.

periodically until the problem and warning light are repaired.

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

Safety belt 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.

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

supplemental restraint system (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 seat 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.

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.

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

Energy management retractors Your vehicle has a seat belt system equipped with energy management retractors at the driver and front outboard passenger seating positions. An energy management retractor is a device which pays out webbing in a controlled manner. This feature is designed to help further reduce the risk of force-related injuries to the occupant. Seat belt systems equipped with an energy management retractor must be replaced if they were in use during a frontal collision which resulted in deployment of the frontal air bags. Refer to the Safety belt maintenance section in this chapter.

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 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 the vehicle. 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.

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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

Ford Motor Company recommends that all safety belt assemblies and attaching hardware should be inspected by a qualified

technician after any collision. Safety belt assemblies not in use during a collision should also be inspected and replaced if either damage or improper operation is noted.

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.

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After any vehicle collision, the seat belt system at all outboard seating positions (except driver, which has no “automatic locking retractor” 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 outboard passenger seating positions. The safety belt pretensioners are designed to activate when the safety belt is fastened during certain frontal or near-frontal collisions, or in certain side collisions that result in side airbag activation (if the vehicle is equipped with side airbags). A safety belt pretensioner is a device which tightens the webbing of the lap and shoulder belts in such a way that they fit more snugly against the body. When the front airbags are activated, the safety belt pretensioners for the driver and right front passenger seating positions will be activated when the respective safety belt is properly buckled. If a side airbag is activated, the safety belt pretensioner for that seating position will be activated if the seat belt is properly buckled. The driver and front outboard passenger safety belt system (including retractors, buckles and height adjusters) must be replaced if the vehicle is involved in a collision that results in the activation of the safety belt pretensioners. Refer to the Safety belt maintenance section in this chapter.

The driver and the right 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 or side airbags and safety belt pretensioners.

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Safety belt usage sensors The driver and front outboard passenger safety belt buckles are equipped with sensors that detect if the safety belts are fastened. The sensors provide information to the Personal Safety System which can then adapt the air bag deployment or safety belt pretensioner activation based upon safety belt usage.

The Personal Safety System provides the most benefit to belted occupants. The system monitors and tailors the air bag

deployment based upon safety belt usage. Failure to properly wear your safety belt will increase your risk of injury.

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

Position the safety belt height adjusters so that the belt rests across the middle of your shoulder. Failure to adjust the safety

belt properly could reduce the effectiveness of the seat belt and increase the risk of injury in a collision.

Lap belts Adjusting the center front lap belt The center front lap belt does not adjust automatically.

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

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

Safety belts for rear-facing occupants (wagon only)

Never use child safety seats in the third seat of a wagon.

Your vehicle is equipped with safety belts containing an adjust tongue at the rear-facing seating positions. When the adjust tongue of the lap/shoulder combination seat belt is latched into the buckle, the tongue will allow the lap portion to become shorter, but locks the webbing in place to restrict it from becoming longer. Before you reach and latch a combination lap and shoulder belt having an adjust tongue into the buckle, you may have to lengthen the lap belt portion of it. To lengthen the lap belt, pull some webbing out of the shoulder belt retractor. While holding the webbing below the tongue, grasp the tongue so that it is parallel to the webbing and slide the tongue upward. Provide enough length so that the tongue can reach the buckle.

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To fasten the belt, pull the combination lap and shoulder belt from the retractor so that the shoulder belt portion of the safety belt crosses your shoulder and chest. Be sure the belt is not twisted. If the belt is twisted, remove the twist. Insert the tongue into the proper buckle for your seating position until you hear a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the tongue is securely fastened to the buckle by pulling on the tongue.

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

Front and rear seat occupants, including pregnant women, should wear safety belts for optimum protection in an accident.

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.

Due to folding rear seats, sometimes the buckles and tongues toward the center of the vehicle may be hidden by the rear edge of the seat cushion. Pull them out so they will be accessible. While you are fastened in the seat belt, the shoulder belt adjusts to your movement. However, if you brake hard, turn hard or your vehicle receives an impact of 8 km/h (5 mph) or more, the safety belt will become locked and help reduce your forward movement. To unfasten the belt, push the red release button on the end of the buckle. This allows the tongue to unlatch from the buckle. While the belt retracts, guide the tongue to its original position to prevent it from striking you or the vehicle.

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

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Conditions of operation If... The driver’s safety belt is not buckled before the ignition switch is turned to the ON position... The driver’s safety belt is buckled while the indicator light is illuminated and the warning chime is sounding... The driver’s safety belt is buckled before the ignition switch is turned to the ON position...

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

The safety belt warning light and warning chime turn off.

The safety belt warning light and indicator chime remain off.

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

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Then... The BeltMinder feature will not activate.

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

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

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

Consider... 36700 crashes occur every day. The more we drive, the more we are exposed to “rare” events, even for good drivers. 1 in 4 of us will be seriously injured in a crash during our lifetime. 3 of 4 fatal crashes occur within 25 miles of home.

“I’m not going far”

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Reasons given... “Belts are uncomfortable”

“I was in a hurry”

“Safety 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. Not a good idea. People who are ejected are 40 times more likely to DIE. Safety belts help prevent ejection, WE CAN’T “PICK OUR CRASH”.

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

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

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

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

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

warning light turns off.

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

turned on for three seconds.

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

Safety belt extension assembly If the safety belt is too short when fully extended, there is a 20 cm (8 inch) safety belt extension assembly that can be added (part number 611C22). This assembly can be obtained from your dealer at no cost. Use only extensions manufactured by the same supplier as the safety belt. Manufacturer identification is located at the end of the webbing on the label. Also, use the safety belt extension only if the safety belt is too short for you when fully extended.

Do not use extensions to change the fit of the shoulder belt across the torso.

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

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qualified technician finds that the belts do not show damage and continue to operate properly, they do not need to be replaced. Safety belt assemblies not in use during a collision should also be inspected and replaced if either damage or improper operation is noted.

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

personal injuries in the event of a collision.

Refer to Interior in the Cleaning chapter.

AIR BAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)

The air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) is designed to work in conjunction with the safety belts to help protect the driver and front outboard passenger from certain upper body injuries. The term “supplemental restraint” means the air bags are intended as a supplement to the safety belts. Air bags alone cannot protect as well as air bags plus safety belts in impacts for which the air bags are designed to deploy, and air bags do not offer any protection in crashes for which they do not deploy. The air bag supplemental restraint system consists of: • driver and passenger dual stage air bag modules (which include the • side air bags (if equipped). Refer to Side air bag system later in this • one or more impact and safing sensors. • the same indicator light, RCM (restraints control module) and • Occupant Classification Sensor (OCS)

diagnostic unit used for the Personal safety system.

inflators and air bags).

chapter.

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Seating and Safety Restraints • Passenger air bag off indicator light. The air bag supplemental restraints are an integral part of the Personal Safety System. They are designed to be deployed in cases where the Personal Safety System has determined the occupant conditions and crash severity are appropriate to activate these devices. Refer to the Personal Safety System section in this chapter. Important supplemental restraint system precautions Air bags DO NOT inflate slowly or gently and the risk of injury from a deploying air bag is greatest close to the trim covering the air bag module.

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

supplemental restraint system (SRS) is provided.

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

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.

Steps you can take to properly position yourself away from the airbag: • Move your seat to the rear as far as you can while still reaching the

pedals comfortably.

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• Recline the seat slightly (one or two degrees) from the upright

position.

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 system (SRS) or its fuses. See your Ford

or Lincoln Mercury dealer.

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

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

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

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.

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How do the air bag supplemental restraints work? The air bags inflate and deflate rapidly upon activation. After air bag deployment, it is normal to notice a smoke-like, powdery residue or smell the burnt propellant. This may consist of cornstarch, talcum powder (to lubricate the bag) or sodium compounds (e.g., baking soda) that result from the combustion process that inflates the air bag. Small amounts of sodium hydroxide may be present which may irritate the skin and eyes, but none of the residue is toxic. While the system is designed to help reduce serious injuries, contact with a deploying air bag may also cause abrasions, swelling or temporary hearing loss. Because air bags must inflate rapidly and with considerable force, there is the risk of death or serious injuries such as fractures, facial and eye injuries or internal injuries, particularly to occupants who are not properly restrained or are otherwise out of position at the time of air bag deployment. Thus, it is extremely important that occupants be properly restrained as far away from the air bag module as possible while maintaining vehicle control.

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.

Front passenger sensing system The front passenger sensing system will turn off the front passenger’s frontal airbag under certain conditions. For side airbag equipped vehicles, the front passenger sensing system will turn off the passenger seat side airbag if the seat is empty (unless for some reason the seat belt is properly buckled). The front passenger sensing system works with

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sensors that are part of the front passenger’s seat and safety belt. The sensors are designed to detect the presence of a properly-seated occupant and determine if the front passenger’s frontal airbag should be enabled (may inflate) or not. The front passenger sensing system is designed to meet the regulatory requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 208
and is designed to turn off the front passenger’s frontal airbag if: • the front passenger seat is unoccupied, • the system determines that an infant is present in a rear-facing infant

seat that is properly installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions,

• the system determines that a small child is present in a forward-facing

child restraint that is properly installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions,

• the system determines that a small child is present in a booster seat, • a front passenger takes his/her weight off of the seat for a period of • the front passenger seat is occupied by a smaller person, such as a

time,

child who has outgrown child restraints or a very small person,

Even with the front passenger sensing system, children 12 and under should be properly restrained in the back seat.

When the front passenger seat is occupied and the sensing system has turned off the passenger’s frontal airbag, the ⬙passenger airbag off⬙ or ⬙pass airbag off⬙ indicator will light and stay lit to remind you that the front passenger frontal airbag is off. When the front passenger seat is not occupied (empty seat) or in the event that the front passenger frontal airbag is enabled (may inflate), the indicator light will be unlit. The indicator light is located next to the climate controls on the bottom right corner of the center stack of the instrument panel. The front passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the front passenger’s frontal airbag when a rear facing infant seat, a forward-facing child restraint, or a booster seat is detected. If the child restraint has been installed and the indicator is not lit, then turn the vehicle off, remove the child restraint from the vehicle and reinstall the restraint following the child restraint manufacturer’s directions.

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The front passenger sensing system is designed to enable (may inflate) the right front passenger’s frontal airbag anytime the system senses that a person of adult size is sitting properly in the front passenger seat. When the passenger sensing system has allowed the airbag to be enabled, the indicator will be unlit and stay unlit to remind you that the airbag is enabled (may inflate). If a person of adult-size is sitting in the front passenger’s seat, but the ⬙passenger airbag off⬙ or ⬙pass airbag off⬙ indicator is lit, it could be that the person isn’t sitting properly in the seat. If this happens, turn the vehicle off and ask the person to place the seatback in the full upright position, then sit upright in the seat, centered on the seat cushion, with the person’s legs comfortably extended. Restart the vehicle and have the person remain in this position for about two minutes. This will allow the system to detect that person and then enable the passenger’s airbag. If the indicator lamp remains lit even after this, then the occupant should be advised to ride in the back seat. After all occupants have adjusted their seats and put on seatbelts, it’s very important that they continue to sit upright with their back against the seatback, with their feet comfortably extended on the floor while the vehicle is still in motion. Sitting improperly can increase the chance of injury in a crash event. For example, if an occupant slouches, lies down, turns sideways, sits forward, leans forward or sideways, or puts one or both feet up, the chance of injury during a crash is greatly increased.

Sitting improperly out of position or with the seat back reclined too far can take off weight from the seat cushion and affect the decision of the passenger sensing system, resulting in serious injury or death in a crash. Always sit upright against your seatback, with your feet on the floor.

In case there is a problem with the passenger sensing system, the airbag readiness light in the instrument cluster will stay lit. DO NOT attempt to repair or service the system; take your vehicle immediately to the dealer.

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

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An out of position front center occupant could affect the decision of the front passenger sensing system.

If it is necessary to modify an advanced front airbag system to accommodate a person with disabilities, contact the Ford Customer Relationship Center at the phone number shown in the Customer Assistance section of this Owners Guide.

Determining if the system is operational The supplemental restraint system uses a warning indicator in the instrument cluster or a back-up tone to indicate the condition of the system. Refer to the Warning light section in the Instrument cluster chapter. Routine maintenance of the air bag is not required. A difficulty with the system is indicated by one or more of the following: • The readiness light (same light

for front and side air bag system) will either flash or stay lit. • 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.

periodically until the problem and/or light are repaired.

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

Side air bag system (if equipped)

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

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

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

increase the risk of injury in an accident.

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

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

Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealer.

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

How does the side air bag system work? The side air bag system consists of the following: • An inflatable nylon bag (air bag) with a gas generator concealed behind the outboard bolster of the driver and front passenger seatbacks. • A special seat cover designed to allow air bag deployment. • The same warning light, electronic control and diagnostic unit as used for the front air bags. • Two crash sensors located on the pillars between the front and rear

doors.

Side air bags, in combination with seat belts, can help reduce the risk of severe injuries in the event of a significant side impact collision. The side air bags are fitted on the outboard side of the seatbacks of the front seats. In certain lateral collisions, the air bag on the side affected by the collision will be inflated, even if the respective seat is not occupied. The air bag was designed to inflate between the door panel and occupant to further enhance the protection provided occupants in side impact collisions. The air bag SRS is designed to activate when the vehicle sustains lateral deceleration sufficient to cause the sensors to close an electrical circuit that initiates air bag inflation. The fact that the air bags did not inflate in a collision does not mean that something is wrong with the system. Rather, it means the forces were

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not of the type sufficient to cause activation. Side air bags are designed to inflate in side-impact collisions, not roll-over, rear-impact, frontal or near-frontal collisions, unless the collision causes sufficient lateral deceleration.

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

If the side air bag has deployed, the air bag will

not function again. The side air bag system (including the seat) must be inspected and serviced by a qualified technician in accordance with the vehicle service manual. If the air bag is not replaced, the unrepaired area will increase the risk of injury in a collision.

Disposal of air bags and air bag equipped vehicles For disposal of air bags or air bag equipped vehicles, see your local dealership or qualified technician. Air bags MUST BE disposed of by qualified personnel.

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

Important child restraint precautions You are required by law to use safety restraints for children in the U.S. and Canada. If small children (generally children who are four years old or younger and who weigh 18 kg [40 lbs] or less) ride in your vehicle, you must put them in safety seats made especially for children. Many states require that children use approved booster seats until they are eight years old. 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.

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Never let a passenger hold a child on his or her lap while the vehicle is moving. The passenger cannot protect the child from

injury in a collision.

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

Children and safety belts If the child is the proper size, restrain the child in a safety seat. Children who are too large for child safety seats (as specified by your child safety seat manufacturer) should always wear safety belts. Follow all the important safety restraint and air bag precautions that apply to adult passengers in your vehicle. If the shoulder belt portion of a combination lap and shoulder belt can be positioned so it does not cross or rest in front of the child’s face or neck, the child should wear the lap and shoulder belt. Moving the child closer to the center of the vehicle may help provide a good shoulder belt fit.

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

Child booster seats Children outgrow a typical convertible or toddler seat when they weigh 40 pounds and are around 4 years of age. Although the lap/shoulder belt will provide some protection, these children are still too small for lap/shoulder belts to fit properly, which could increase the risk of serious injury. To improve the fit of both the lap and shoulder belt on children who have outgrown child safety seats, Ford Motor Company recommends use of a belt-positioning booster. Booster seats position a child so that safety belts fit better. They lift the child up so that the lap belt rests low across the hips and the knees bend comfortably. Booster seats also make the shoulder belt fit better and more comfortably for growing children. When children should use booster seats Children need to use booster seats from the time they outgrow the toddler seat until they are big enough for the vehicle seat and lap/shoulder belt to fit properly. Generally this is when they weigh about 80 lbs (about 8 to 12 years old).

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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? 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.

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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.

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

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

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

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

collision.

SAFETY SEATS FOR CHILDREN

Child and infant or child safety seats Use a safety seat that is recommended for the size and weight of the child. Carefully follow all of the manufacturer’s instructions with the safety seat you put in your vehicle. If you do not install and use the safety seat properly, the child may be injured in a sudden stop or collision.

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When installing a child safety seat: • Review and follow the information presented in the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System section in this chapter. • Use the correct safety belt buckle • 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 that seating position.

• Keep the buckle release button pointing up and away from the safety seat, with the tongue between the child seat and the release button, to prevent accidental unbuckling. • Place seat back in upright position. • Put the safety belt in the automatic locking mode. Refer to Automatic • LATCH lower anchors are recommended for use by children up to 22
kg (48 pounds) in a child restraint. Top tether anchors can be used for children up to 27 kg (60 pounds) in a child restraint, and to provide upper torso restraint for children up to 36 kg (80 pounds) using an upper torso harness and a belt-positioning booster.

locking mode.

Ford recommends the use of a child safety seat having a top tether strap. Install the child safety seat in a seating position with LATCH and tether anchors. For more information on top tether straps and anchors, refer to Attaching safety seats with tether straps in this chapter. For more information of LATCH anchors refer to Attaching safety seats with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) attachments in this chapter.

Carefully follow all of the manufacturer’s instructions included with the safety seat you put in your vehicle. If you do not install and use the safety seat properly, the child may be injured in a sudden stop or collision.

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

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Installing child safety seats with combination lap and shoulder belts

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

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

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

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

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