Ford 1999 Contour- Manual

Instrumentation 7 High beams Illuminates when the headlamphigh beams are on. Charging system Briefly illuminates when theignition is turned on and the engineis off. The light also illuminateswhen the battery is not chargingproperly and the vehicle mayrequire electrical system service. Safety belt Il...

Instrumentation 9 O/D Off indicator(Automatic transaxle only) Illuminates and remainsilluminated when the transaxlecontrol switch (TCS) on the side ofthe gearshift lever is pressed andoverdrive is turned off. For details,refer to the Driving chapter. Indicates the status of thetransaxle and will fla...

Instrumentation 10 Check engine Your vehicle is equipped with acomputer that monitors theengine’s emission control system.This system is commonly knownas the On Board Diagnostics (OBDII) system. This OBD II systemprotects the environment byensuring that your vehiclecontinues to meet governmentemissi...

Instrumentation 11 The check engine indicator light illuminates when the ignition is firstturned to the ON position to check the bulb. If it comes on after theengine is started, one of theengine’s emission control systemsmay be malfunctioning. The lightmay illuminate without adriveability concern be...

Instrumentation 12 These temporary malfunctions canbe corrected by filling the fuel tankwith good quality fuel and/orproperly tightening the fuel cap.After three drive cycles withoutthese or any other temporarymalfunctions present, the check engine light should turn off. (A driving cycle consists of...

Instrumentation 13 CHECK ENGINE Air bag readiness Briefly illuminates when theignition is turned on. If the lightfails to illuminate, continues toflash, or remains on, have thesystem serviced immediately. Low fuel Illuminates when the fuel tank hasapproximately eight liters (twogallons) remaining. T...

Instrumentation 14 Brake system warning Extinguishes when the parkingbrake is released. Illuminates afterreleasing the parking brake toindicate low brake fluid level. Illumination while driving mayindicate that one of the brakingcircuits has failed. The secondbraking circuit will remain intact.Howev...

Instrumentation 16 E F BRAKE O/DOFF 0 0 0 1 2 3 0 0 0 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 110 120 130 MPH 20 40 60 55 80 120 100 140 160 180 200 100 CHECK ENGINE TRACTION CONTROL C H 0 0 0 1 2 3 0 0 0 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 110 120 130 MPH 20 40 60 55 80 120 100 140 160 180 200 100 E F 1 2 0 3 x 1000...

Instrumentation 17 Headlamps on warning chime Sounds when the headlamps areon, the ignition is off (and the keyis not in the ignition) and thedriver’s door is open. Testing the warning andindicator lights and chimes Turn the ignition key to the onposition without starting theengine. The following wa...

Instrumentation 18 C H Engine coolant temperaturegauge Indicates the temperature of theengine coolant. If it enters the redsection, the engine is overheating.Switch off the ignition anddetermine the source of theproblem. Refer to Checking and adding engine coolant in the Maintenance and care chapter...

Instrumentation 19 Speedometer Indicates the current vehiclespeed. Odometer Registers the total mileage of thevehicle. Trip odometer The trip odometer can register themileage of individual journeys. Toreset, depress the button. 0 0 0 1 2 3 0 0 0 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 110 120 130 MPH 20 40 60 ...

Controls and features 20 M I R R O R S OFF LO PNL/FLR PANEL A/C FLOOR DEF FLR DEF MAX A/C HI / POWER AUDIO AM/FM SCAN SEEK 3 1 2 4 5 ANS SIDE 1-2 EJECT VOLUME 0 0 0 1 2 3 0 0 0 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 MPH 20 40 60 55 80 120 100 140 160 180 200 E F 1 2 0 3 x 1000 4 5 6 7 8 BRAKE ...

Controls and features 23 Panel dimmer control Adjust the control to vary theintensity of the panel lighting.Operates only when the exteriorlights are switched on. To switch on the interior lamp,rotate the control completely to theleft. Power mirrors (if equipped) The control can be swivelled andturn...

Controls and features 24 Climate control system Vents Airflow from the vents may beadjusted by moving the horizontalcontrol or vertically adjusting thevent (except passenger side outervent) according to your airflowpreference. Your vehicle has one of thefollowing climate control systems: • Manual he...

Controls and features 25 Heater only system (if equipped) OFF LO PNL/FLR PANEL FLOOR DEF FLR DEF HI / LO HI Temperature control knob Controls the temperature of theairflow inside the vehicle. Onheater-only systems, the air cannotbe cooled below the outsidetemperature. Mode selector control Controls ...

Controls and features 26 • FLR/DEF – Distributes outsideair through the floor ducts and thewindshield defroster ducts. • DEF – Distributes outside airthrough the windshield defrosterducts. It can be used to clear ice orfog from the windshield. Operating tips • In humid weather, select DEFbefore driv...

Controls and features 27 Manual heating and airconditioning system (if equipped) OFF LO PNL/FLR PANEL A/C FLOOR DEF FLR DEF MAX A/C HI / LO HI Fan speed control Controls the volume of aircirculated in the vehicle. Temperature control knob Controls the temperature of theairflow inside the vehicle. OF...

Controls and features 31 Cabin air filter Your vehicle is equipped with an airfilter that removes pollen and roaddust from outside air before it isdirected to the interior of thevehicle. Refer to the Maintenance and care chapter for maintenance of this filter. • When placing objects on top ofyour in...

Controls and features 33 Electronic stereo radio with cassette Electronic stereo radio 13CCfen 3/25/99 1:50 PM Page 33

Controls and features 36 Power control Press the control to turn the audiosystem on or off. Volume control Press the control to raise or lowervolume. If the volume is set above a certainlevel and the ignition is turned off,the volume will come back on at a“nominal” listening level when theignition s...

Controls and features 37 The tune adjust with electronicstereo radio • Press (–) to move to the nextfrequency down the band (whetheror not a listenable station is locatedthere). Hold the control to movethrough the frequencies quickly. • Press (+) to move to the nextfrequency up the band (whether orn...

Controls and features 38 • Within approximately fiveseconds, press and release either or on the SEEK control to change to the next frequency up ordown. • Press and hold down or to quickly move through thefrequencies. Seek function The seek function control works inradio or tape mode. Seek function i...

Controls and features 39 Scan function The scan function works in radioand CD mode (if equipped). Scan function with electronicstereo cassette radio Press the SCAN control to hear abrief sampling of all listenablestations on the frequency band.Press the control again to stop thescan mode. Scan funct...

Controls and features 40 3. Press and hold a memory presetcontrol until the sound returns,indicating the station is held inmemory on the control youselected. If the battery is disconnected, thememory preset stations will needto be reset. Automatic memory store (if equipped) Automatic memory store al...

Controls and features 41 2. Press the AUTO PRESETcontrol. 3. When the first six strong stationsare filled, the station stored inmemory preset control 1 will startplaying. If there are less than six strongstations available on the frequencyband, the remaining memorypreset controls will all store the ...

• Press (+) or (–) on the volumecontrol to increase or decreasetreble output. Speaker balance adjust Speaker sound distribution can beadjusted between the right and leftspeakers. Controls and features 42 Treble adjust The treble adjust control allowsyou to increase or decrease theaudio system’s treb...

Controls and features 43 Speaker fade adjust Speaker sound distribution can beadjusted between the front andrear speakers. • Push the AUDIO controlrepeatedly until the display readsFADE. • Press the (+) side of the volumecontrol to shift sound to the frontspeakers. • Press the (–) side of the volume...

Setting the clock Press and hold CLOCK, then pressSEEK to increase the hours or to increase minutes. The clock will display 12-hour timewith no AM/PM indications. On the single CD audio system, theclock can be set with the radiopower on or off. Controls and features 44 Tape play select Insert a tape...

Controls and features 45 Rewind/fast forward in CDmode • Press the control for less thanthree seconds for slow rewind. • Press the control for more thanthree seconds for fast rewind. • Press the control for less thanthree seconds for slow forwardaction. • Press the control for more thanthree seconds...

Controls and features 46 CD eject Press the control to stop and ejecta CD. If a disc is ejected from the CDplayer but is not removed withinapproximately 10 seconds, theplayer will automatically reload thedisc for storage (unless the disc isautomatically ejected because itwas inserted upside down, in...

Controls and features 47 DISPLAY SCREEN The display screen givesinformation on the status of theaudio system. Display Information AM, FM1 or FM2 Indicates which frequency band the audio system is in 87.9 to 107.9 Indicates currently playing radio station (530 to 1610 Am) Illuminated bars Indicates v...

Controls and features 48 Troubleshooting the CD Player The laser beam used in thecompact disc player is harmful to the eyes. Do notattempt to disassemble the case. If sound skips: • You may be travelling on a roughroad, playing scratched discs or thedisc may be dirty. Skipping will notscratch the di...

Controls and features 49 CD and CD player care • Handle discs by their edges only.Never touch the playing surface. • Do not insert more than one discat a time. • Do not expose discs to directsunlight or heat sources forextended periods of time. • After playing, store the disc in itscase. Cleaning ca...

Controls and features 50 • Remove loose labels beforeinserting tapes. • Do not leave tapes in the cassetteplayer for a long time when notbeing played. RADIO FREQUENCYINFORMATION The Federal CommunicationsCommission (FCC) and theCanadian Radio andTelecommunicationsCommunications (CRTC) establishthe f...

Controls and features 51 • Terrain. Hills, mountains and tall buildings between your vehicle’santenna and the radio stationsignal can cause FM receptionproblems. Static can be caused onAM stations by power lines, electricfences, traffic lights andthunderstorms. Moving away froman interfering structu...

Controls and features 52 STEERING COLUMNCONTROLS Ignition 1. Ignition off, steering wheellocked. On vehicles with automatictransaxles, the ignition key canreturn to this position only if thegearshift lever is in P (Park). 2. The accessory position. Steeringunlocked, radio operational.Ignition and al...

Controls and features 53 Tilt steering Pull the locking lever on thesteering column cover up to adjustthe steering column position.Secure the wheel by releasing thelever thereby allowing the lever toreturn to the lock position. Never adjust the steeringwheel while the vehicle is moving. OFF LO PNL/F...

Controls and features 54 Hazard flasher control Use only in an emergency to warntraffic of vehicle breakdown orapproaching danger. Depress toactivate. Depress again to switchoff. The hazard lights can beoperated when the ignition is off. Horn Press the pad. The horn can beoperated when the ignition ...

Controls and features 55 Multi-function switch The turn signal functions areavailable only with the ignitionswitch on. Right turn signal Move the lever up. Left turn signal Move the lever down. OFF LO PNL/FLR PANEL A/C FLOOR DEF FLR DEF MAX A/C HI / POWER AUDIO AM/FM SCAN SEEK 3 1 2 4 5 ANS SIDE 1-2...

Controls and features 56 Wipers Lift the windshield wiper lever tothe desired speed interval. • Intermittent: push lever up to thefirst position. • Low: push lever up to the secondposition. • High: push lever up to the thirdposition. For a single wipe, push the leverdownward. Windshield wipers and w...

Controls and features 57 Do not use the speed controlin heavy traffic or on roads that are winding, slippery, orunpaved. Off On Speed control (if equipped) To turn speed control off • Press Off, or • turn off the vehicle ignition. Once the speed control is switchedoff, the previously programmed sets...

Controls and features 58 To set a speed Press Set Acc. For speed control tooperate, the speed control must beon and the vehicle speed must begreater than 48 km/h (30 mph). If you drive up or down a steep hill,your vehicle speed may varymomentarily slower or faster thanthe set speed. This is normal. ...

Controls and features 59 Res Set Acc Coast To set a lower speed • Press and hold Coast. Release thecontrol when the desired vehiclespeed is reached, or • press and release Coast. Eachpress will decrease the set speedby 1.6 km/h (1 mph), or • depress the brake pedal. Whenthe desired vehicle speed isr...

Controls and features 60 Res Set Acc Coast To return to a set speed • Press Res. For Res to operate,the vehicle speed must be fasterthan 48 km/h (30 mph). To disengage speed control • Depress the brake pedal. Disengaging the speed control willnot erase the previouslyprogrammed set speed. OVERHEAD CO...

Controls and features 61 12 SEC On Off 12 SEC Interior lamps (sunroof equipped vehicles) The reading lamps are operated byseparate on/off switches and can beadjusted to point in the desireddirection. Open/Lift Close Sunroof (if equipped) The electric sunroof can beoperated only when the ignition iss...

Controls and features 62 Power door locks (if equipped) Push to lock or unlock all doors. Power windows (if equipped) The windows will only operatewhen the ignition is switched on.Press the appropriate control tooperate the power windows at eachdoor position. All of the windowscan be controlled from...

Controls and features 63 Safety switch Move the switch to the left toprevent passengers from operatingthe windows. Move the switch to the right toallow passengers to operate thewindows. CHILD LOCK BELOW SECURITE ENFANTS CI-DESSOUS ´ VERROUILLEE , LOCKED WHEN LOCKED, DOOR WON`TOPEN FROM INSIDE. ´ VER...

Controls and features 64 PULL Remote luggage compartmentcontrol Pull the control located on the leftof the driver seat to open theluggage compartment. FLOOR MOUNTED CONTROLS Parking brake For information on the parkingbrake, refer to Preparing to start the vehicle in the Starting chapter. 13CCfen 3/...

Controls and features 65 Fuel pump shut-off switch For information on the fuel pumpshut-off switch, refer to Fuel pump shut-off switch in the Roadside emergencies chapter. Positive retention floor mat Position the floor mat in thefootwell. Place the mat eyelet overthe pointed end of the retentionpos...

Controls and features 66 TRUNK UN LOCK PANIC LOCK REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRYSYSTEM(if equipped) If your vehicle has a remote entrysystem, you can lock and unlockthe vehicle doors and open theluggage compartment withoutusing a key. The remote also has apersonal alarm feature. The remote entry feature onlyo...

Controls and features 67 Opening the luggagecompartment Press the TRUNK control. Sounding the panic alarm Press the PANIC control. The hornwill sound and the headlamps andtail lamps will flash forapproximately 2 minutes and 45seconds. To deactivate the alarm, press thePANIC control again or turn the...

Controls and features 68 Replacing lost transmitters Take your transmitters to thedealer for reprogramming if: • a transmitter is lost, or • you want to purchase additionaltransmitters. This device complies with part 15of the FCC rules. Operation issubject to the two followingconditions: (1) The dev...

Controls and features 69 PASSIVE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM(if equipped) The Passive Anti-Theft System(PATS) is an engine immobilizationsystem. It is an additional theftprotection feature that preventsthe engine from being startedunless a coded key is used. This system is only available with2.5 litre engines...

Controls and features 70 Functional check When the ignition is switched on,the control light will illuminate forapproximately three seconds toindicate that the system isoperating correctly. If the control light flashes rapidlyfor approximately one minute andthen repeatedly at irregularintervals, the...

Controls and features 71 Spare key programming A maximum of 8 keys in all can becoded with any two coded keys. • Insert the first key in the ignition switch and turn to position3. • Turn the key back to position 1 and remove from the ignitionswitch within 5 seconds. • Insert the second key in the ig...

Seating and safety restraints 72 Adjusting the head restraints Push or pull the head restraint tothe desired height. SEATING Manually adjusting the seats Pull the lever located at the frontedge of the seat to move the seatforward or backward. Reclining the seats Pull the lever on the outside of thes...

Seating and safety restraints 73 Adjusting the power seats (if equipped) Move the relevant control in therespective direction to adjust theseat as follows: 1 2 3 4 Seat (1) Forward and backward (2) Height of the entire seat (3) Height of the front of the seat (4) Height of the rear of the seat Lumba...

Seating and safety restraints 74 Folding rear seats (if equipped) Pull the release knob located in theluggage compartment. Fold downthe seat. The seat back cannot bereleased while the built-in childseat (if equipped) is open. If you are carrying objects thatmight damage the center rearthree-point sa...

Seating and safety restraints 75 Important safety restraintsprecautions The use of safety belts helps torestrain both driver and passengerin case of a collision. In most statesand Canada, the law requires theuse of safety belts. Always drive and ride withyour seatback upright and the lap belt snug a...

Seating and safety restraints 76 Combination lap and shoulderbelt Insert the tongue into the slot inthe buckle to fasten. Push the red release button andremove the tongue from the slot tounfasten. The passenger safety restraints inthe vehicle are combination lap andshoulder belts. The front and rear...

Seating and safety restraints 77 Automatic locking mode In this mode, the shoulder belt isautomatically prelocked; however,the belt will react to remove anyslack in the shoulder belt. The automatic locking mode is notavailable on the driver’s safety belt. When to use the automaticlocking mode • When...

Seating and safety restraints 78 Using automatic locking mode The automatic locking mode mustbe used when installing a childsafety seat in any passenger seat. 1. Buckle the combination lap andshoulder belt. 2. Grasp the shoulder belt portionand pull downward until the entirebelt is extracted. 3. All...

Seating and safety restraints 81 Conditions of operation If the driver safety belt is notbuckled before the ignition key isturned to on, the safety beltindicator illuminates for 1-2 minutes and the warning chimesounds for 4-8 seconds. If the driver safety belt is buckledwhile the indicator light isi...

Seating and safety restraints 82 Care of safety belts Periodically check the belts fordamage or fraying. Check thesecurity of the anchorage pointsand the locking action of the inertiareels by giving each belt a sharptug. Belts subjected to strain, as in theresult of an accident, should bereplaced an...

Seating and safety restraints 84 Do not attempt to service,repair, or modify the air bag Supplemental Restraint System(SRS) or its fuses. See your Fordor Lincoln-Mercury dealer. When installing forward-facing child seats in the front seat, always move thepassenger seat as far back fromthe instrument...

Seating and safety restraints 86 If the air bag is inflated, the air bag will not function again and must be replacedimmediately. If the air bag is not replaced, the unrepaired area willincrease the risk of injury in acollision. The SRS consists of the following: • driver and passenger air bagmodule...

Seating and safety restraints 89 Safety belts and seats canbecome hot in a vehicle that has been closed up in sunnyweather; they could burn a smallchild. Check seat covers andbuckles before you place a childanywhere near them. Do not leave children,unreliable adults, or pets unattended in your vehic...

Seating and safety restraints 91 Children and safety belts Children who are too large for childsafety seats (as specified by thechild safety seat manufacturer)should always wear safety belts. Follow all the important safetyrestraints and air bag precautionsthat apply to adult passengers inyour vehic...

Seating and safety restraints 93 Built-in child safety seat (if equipped) The rear seat may include a built-inchild seat. This child seat conformsto all federal and local motorvehicle safety standards. Read thelabels located on the child seatcushion and shoulder belt forinformation on the built-in c...

Seating and safety restraints 94 Child seat interlock safetyfeature The interlock ensures that a childis not placed in the integrated childseat when the folding seatback isnot securely latched. It prevents the seatback from beingunlatched while the child seat is inuse. When the child seat isdeployed...

Seating and safety restraints 95 1. Make sure that the seatback issecurely latched in place. 2. Grasp the child seat cushion andpull the top forward to release thelatch. Continue to unfold the childseat until it rests on the seat in thefully open position. Placing your child in the built-inchild sea...

Seating and safety restraints 98 To stow the built-in child seat Return the child seat cushion tothe upright position, then pressfirmly in the center and top of thechild seat. Removing your child from thebuilt-in child seat 1. Squeeze the tabs on the top andthe bottom of the chest clip andpull the h...

Seating and safety restraints 99 Carefully follow all of themanufacturer’s instructions included with the safety seat youput in your vehicle. If you do notinstall and use the safety seatproperly, the child may be injuredin a sudden stop or collision. Ford recommends the use of achild safety seat hav...

Seating and safety restraints 103 To install a tether from a childsafety seat in the front seat, routethe tether strap under the vehicleseat head restraint and hook thetether hook into the hole in thetongue of the center rear lap belt.After the hook is in the hole, pullon the loose end of the lap be...

Starting 104 Extended idling at highengine speeds can produce very high temperatures in theengine and exhaust system,creating the risk of fire or otherdamage. IMPORTANT SAFETYPRECAUTIONS A computer system controls theengine’s idle revolutions per minute(rpm). When the engine starts, theidle rpm runs...

Starting 105 IMPORTANT VENTILATIONINFORMATION If the engine is idling while thevehicle is stopped in an open areafor long periods of time, open thewindows at least 2.5 cm (1 inch). OFF PNL/FLR PANEL A/C FLOOR DEF FLR DEF MAX A/C / Adjust the heating or airconditioning to bring in fresh air. Do not s...

Starting 106 Improve vehicle ventilation bykeeping all air inlet vents clear ofsnow, leaves, and other debris. Guarding against exhaustfumes Although odorless and colorless,carbon monoxide is present inexhaust fumes. Take precautions toavoid its dangerous effects. Have the exhaust and bodyventilatio...

Starting 107 PREPARING TO START THEVEHICLE Engine starting is controlled by thespark ignition system. This systemmeets all Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment standardrequirements regulating theimpulse electrical field strength ofradio noise. When starting a fuel-injectedengine, avoid pressing t...

Starting 108 If starting a vehicle with anautomatic transaxle: • Make sure the parking brake isset. • Make sure the gearshift is in P(Park). If starting a vehicle with a manualtransaxle: • Make sure the parking brake isset. • Push the clutch pedal to the floorotherwise the engine will not crank(turn...

Starting 110 STARTING THE ENGINE 1. Turn the key to the startposition (4) without pressing theaccelerator pedal and release assoon as the engine starts. The keywill return to the on (3) position. 3 4 2 1 2. If the engine does not startwithin five seconds, wait tenseconds and try again. 3. If the eng...

112 Driving BRAKES Your brakes are self-adjusting.Refer to the “ScheduledMaintenance Guide” formaintenance intervals. Anti-lock braking system (ABS)(if equipped) The ABS operates by detecting theonset of wheel lock-up duringbrake applications andcompensating for this tendency.The wheels are prevente...

Driving 113 Two importantrules whenbraking inemergencies withABS: 1. Apply full forceon both brakeand clutch pedal(if equipped). Braking with ABS • In an emergency, apply full forceon the brake pedal. In vehicleswith manual transaxles, you mustalso depress the clutch pedal. Theanti-lock braking syst...

Driving 114 Parking brake To engage the parking brake: Pull the handle upward. To release the parking brake: 1. Press and hold the releasebutton. 2. Push handle downward to the offposition. Always set the parking brakefully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P(Park) (automatic t...

Driving 116 STEERING YOUR VEHICLE Your vehicle comes with powersteering. Power steering usesenergy from the engine to helpsteer your vehicle. If the amount of effort needed tosteer your vehicle at a constantvehicle speed, have the powersteering system checked. If thepower steering system breaksdown ...

Driving 117 TRANSAXLE OPERATION Automatic transaxle(if equipped) Vehicles equipped with anautomatic transaxle are equippedwith a brake-shift interlock featurethat prevents the gearshift leverfrom being moved from the P (Park) position unless the brakepedal is depressed. Putting your vehicle in gear ...

Driving 118 5. Push and hold the thumb buttonand move the gearshift. 6. Remove the screwdriver whenthe gearshift moves from the P(Park) position. Overriding the brake-shiftinterlock feature If it is necessary to use thisprocedure to move the gearshiftlever, it is possible that a fuse hasblown and th...

Driving 123 Manual transaxle (if equipped) Vehicles equipped with a manualtransaxle have a starter interlockthat prevents cranking the engineunless the clutch pedal is fullydepressed. Using the clutch When starting a vehicle with amanual transaxle: 1. Hold down the brake pedal. 2. Depress the clutch...

Driving 124 22 Recommended shift speeds 2.0 litre engine 5-speed transaxle shift speed schedules Recommended upshifts: Shift from km/h mph 14 25 33 48 40 53 77 mph 12 20 29 40 km/h 19 32 64 First to second Second to third Third to fourth Fourth to fifth During acceleration: During cruise*: 46 2.5 li...

Driving 125 Parking 1. Apply the brake and the clutchand shift into neutral. 2. Engage the parking brake. 3. Shift into 1 (First) or R(Reverse). 4. Turn the ignition off. Do not park your vehicle inNeutral, it may move unexpectedly and injure someone.Use 1 (first) gear and set theparking brake. Reve...

Driving 126 GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) Base curb weight plus the payloadweight. The GVW is not a limit or aspecification. Payload Combined maximum allowableweight of passengers, cargo, andoptional equipment. LOADING YOUR VEHICLE Before loading your vehicle,familiarize yourself with theseterms. Base ...

Driving 129 It is extremly dangerous toride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision,people riding in these areas aremore likely to be seriously injuredor killed. Do not allow people toride in any area of your vehiclethat is not equipped with seatsand safety belts. Be sure eve...

Driving 130 TRAILER TOWING Your vehicle is capable of towing atrailer of up to a maximum of454 kg (1 000 lbs) gross trailerweight with a maximum tongueload of 45 kg (100 lbs). It shouldalso have 2.3 sq. meters (25 sq.feet) or less frontal area. Do notdrive faster than 72 km/h (45 mph)while towing a ...

Driving 131 Follow these guidelines to ensuresafe towing procedure: • Stay within your vehicle’s loadlimits. • Thoroughly prepare your vehiclefor towing. Refer to Preparing to tow in this chapter. • Use extra caution when drivingwhile trailer towing. Refer to Driving while towing a trailer in this c...

Driving 132 Preparing to tow Use the proper equipment fortowing a trailer and make sure thatit is properly attached to yourvehicle. See your dealer or areliable trailer retailer if yourequire assistance. Auxiliary coolers are recommendedfor the power steering system andautomatic transaxle system if ...

Driving 133 Using a hitch Do not use hitches that: • Clamp onto the vehicle bumper. • Attach to the axle. Distribute the load so that only 10to 15% of the total weight of thetrailer is on the tongue. Tie downthe load so that it does not shiftand change weight on the hitch.Follow the instructions of ...

Driving 134 Using trailer brakes Use electric brakes or manual,automatic or surge type hydraulicbrakes that meet federal and localregulations. Install and adjustbrakes according to themanufacturer’s instructions. Using safety chains Always connect the trailer’s safetychains to the vehicle. To connec...

Driving 135 Driving while towing a trailer Do not drive faster than 72 km/h(45 mph) while towing a 454 kg(1 000 lb) trailer. Do not drivefaster than 72 km/h (45 mph) withany weight trailer while towing inhilly terrain or on hot days. Speed control (if equipped) maynot work properly while towing onlo...

Driving 136 FUEL CONSUMPTION Fuel economy can be improved byavoiding: • lack of regular, scheduledmaintenance, • excessive speed, • rapid acceleration, • driving with the brake pedaldepressed, • sudden stops, • extended engine idling, • use of speed control in hillyterrain, • extended use of the air...

Roadside emergencies 137 HAZARD FLASHER CONTROL Use only in an emergency to warntraffic of vehicle breakdown orapproaching danger. Depress toactivate. Depress again to switchoff. The hazard lights can beoperated when the ignition is off. FUEL PUMP SHUT-OFF SWITCH If the engine cranks, but does notst...

Roadside emergencies 139 Even after a fuse is replaced, it willcontinue to blow if the cause of theoverload is not identified andcorrected. If the fuse continues toblow, have the vehicle’s electricalsystem checked by your dealer or aqualified service technician. To reset a circuit breaker, press the...

Roadside emergencies 140 1 11 12 13 14 15 16 R6 R5 R4 R3 R2 10 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R1 R7 R8 R9 R10 R11 D1 D2 17 18 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 Power distribution box To check or replace a fuse or arelay, remove the cover of the fusebox in the engine compartment byreleasing the latch (1) ...

Roadside emergencies 141 Ampere rating Circuits protected 123456789 1011121314151617183940414243444546474849505152 — 7.5 20—— 3 20—15—20—20 7.57.57.57.57.5 — 20*20*40* —— 60* ——— 60* — 60*60* Not usedAlternatorFoglampsNot usedNot usedEEC ignition module (memory)Horn and hazard flasher warning system...

Roadside emergencies 142 Power distribution box (engine compartment) Relay Circuits switched R 1R 2R 3R 4R 5R 6R 7R 8R 9 R 10R 11 D1D2 Passenger compartment fusepanel To check or change a fuse or arelay, open the fuse box by pullingdown the lock release lever (1). 1 Fuel pumpEEC moduleAir conditioni...

Roadside emergencies 143 A blown fuse can be identified by abreak in the wire. All fuses are a push fit. Five reserve fuses with differentcurrent ratings are attached to theinside cover of the powerdistribution box in case ofemergency fuse replacement. 19 20 21 R16 R15 R14 R12 R13 22 23 24 25 26 27 ...

Roadside emergencies 145 Fuse rating 7.5 amp 10 amp15 amp20 amp30 amp 30 amp fuse link 40 amp 60 amp fuse link80 amp fuse link 100 amp fuse link Color brown red light blue yellow light green pink orange yellow black blue Relay R 18 R 20R 21R 22R 23R 24 R 25 R 26 “One touch” switch (driver’s window)N...

Roadside emergencies 146 CHANGING TIRES Park your vehicle in such a positionthat neither the traffic nor you arehindered or endangered whenchanging the tire. Ensure that thevehicle is on firm, level ground.Secure your vehicle further byblocking the wheels. Activate the hazard lights. Apply the parki...

Roadside emergencies 147 80 MAX km/h When driving with a temporaryspare tire: • Do not exceed the maximumspeed of 80 km/h (50 mph) andonly drive the shortest possibledistance. • Do not exceed the permissiblegross weight of the vehicle. • Do not install more than onespare wheel on your vehicle at any...

Roadside emergencies 148 Removing a tire 1. Apply the parking brake and 1(first) gear (manual transaxle) orthe P (Park) position (automatictransaxle). 2. Activate the hazard flashers. 3. The driver and all passengersmust leave the vehicle. 4. Secure the vehicle against rollingor sliding. 5. Insert t...

Roadside emergencies 149 Replacing a tire 1. Push the spare tire onto thewheel studs. 2. Screw on the wheel nuts,ensuring the tapered end of thewheel nuts are facing the wheel,and secure in a clockwise direction. 3. Lower the vehicle and removethe jack by turning the handlecounterclockwise. 4. Fully...

Roadside emergencies 150 JUMP STARTING YOURVEHICLE The gases around thebattery can explode if exposed to flames, sparks, or litcigarettes. An explosion couldresult in injury or vehicle damage. Do not push start yourvehicle. You could damage the catalytic converter. Batteries contain sulfuricacid whi...

Roadside emergencies 151 3. Park the booster vehicle close tothe hood of the disabled vehicle,making sure the two vehicles do not touch. Set the parking brake on both vehicles and stay clear ofthe engine cooling fan and othermoving parts. 4. Check all battery terminals andremove any excessive corros...

Roadside emergencies 152 2. Connect the other end of thepositive (+) cable to the positive(+) terminal of the assistingbattery. 3. Connect the negative (-) cableto the negative (-) terminal of theassisting battery. 4. Make the final connection of thenegative (-) cable to an exposedmetal part of the ...

Roadside emergencies 154 Jump starting 1. Start the engine of the boostervehicle and run the engine at amoderately increased speed. 2. Start the engine of the disabledvehicle. 3. Once the disabled vehicle hasbeen started, run both engines fora further three minutes beforedisconnecting the jumper cab...

Roadside emergencies 156 If towing is necessary, it isrecommended that your vehicle betowed with a wheel lift or flatbedequipment. Do not tow withslingbelt equipment. Ford MotorCompany has not developed orapproved a T-hook or slingbelttowing procedure. WRECKER TOWING 23CREen 3/25/99 3:35 PM Page 156

Roadside emergencies 157 Never use a tow bar thatattaches to the bumper when you tow your vehicle. Thiscould damage the bumper andcause an accident. TOWING YOUR VEHICLEBEHIND ANOTHER VEHICLE Before you have your vehicletowed: • release the parking brake, • move the gearshift to N (Neutral), • turn t...

Maintenance and care 158 SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS • We highlight do-it-yourself itemsin the engine compartment for easylocation. • As possible, we design parts thatcan be replaced without tools. • We provide you with amaintenance guide and or serviceguide which makes tracking routineservice for your ...

Maintenance and care 159 Precautions when servicingyour vehicle Be especially careful wheninspecting or servicing yourvehicle. Here are some generalprecautions for your safety: • Do not work on a hot engine. The cooling fan is automaticand may come on at any time. Always disconnect thenegative termi...

Maintenance and care 162 Opening the hood • Pull the handle (1) located underthe instrument panel. 0 0 0 1 2 3 0 0 0 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 MPH 20 40 60 55 80 120 100 140 160 180 200 E F 1 2 0 3 x 1000 4 5 6 7 8 CHECKENGINE TRACTIONCONTROL O/DOFF M IR R O R S 1 TRACTION TROL C ...

Maintenance and care 165 ADD FULL Engine oil Use SAE 5W-30 motor oilCERTIFIED FOR GASOLINEENGINES by the AmericanPetroleum Institute. Do not use supplemental engine oiladditives, oil treatments or enginetreatments. They are unnecessaryand could, under certainconditions, lead to engine damagewhich is...

Maintenance and care 166 6. If the oil level is below theminimum line, add engine oil asnecessary. If the oil level is beyondthe maximum line, engine damageor high oil consumption may occurand some oil must be removedfrom the engine by a servicetechnician. 7. Put the dipstick back in andensure it is...

Maintenance and care 167 Refer to the maintenance guideand or service guide for additionalinformation. Always dispose of used automotive fluids in a responsible manner. Follow yourcommunity’s standards fordisposing of these types of fluids.Call your local recycling center tofind out more about recyc...

Maintenance and care 168 Brake/clutch fluid reservoir Brake and clutch fluid systems aresupplied from the same reservoir. The level of the fluid must liebetween the MIN and MAX markson the side of the reservoir. If thelevel falls below the MIN mark, thebrake fluid level warning light onthe instrumen...

Maintenance and care 169 Engine coolant maintenance MAX MIN Checking and adding enginecoolant Check the level of the coolant inthe reservoir at least once a month.Be sure to read and understand Precautions when servicing yourvehicle in this chapter. If the engine coolant has not beenchecked for a lo...

Maintenance and care 170 When adding engine coolant Ford recommends Ford PremiumCooling System Fluid, which is anoptimized formula that will protectall metals and rubber elastomersused in Ford engines for four yearsor 80 000 km (50 000 miles). It is neither necessary norrecommended to use supplement...

Maintenance and care 174 Automatic transaxle fluid Follow the scheduled serviceintervals outlined in themaintenance guide and or serviceguide. Before adding any fluid, make surethe correct type is used. The typeof fluid used is normally indicatedon the dipstick and/or dipstickhandle and also in the ...

Maintenance and care 176 Battery Your vehicle may be equipped witha Motorcraft maintenance-freebattery. The Motorcraftmaintenance-free battery normallydoes not require additional waterduring its life of service. However,for severe service usage or in hightemperature climates, refer to themaintenance...

Maintenance and care 177 Battery replacement If your original equipment batteryrequires replacement while underwarranty, it will be replaced with aMotorcraft service battery,identical in design technology. Likethe original equipment battery, itshould not require water additionduring its normal life ...

Maintenance and care 178 Batteries normally produceexplosive gases which can cause personal injury. Do not allowflames, sparks or lit tobacco tocome near the battery. Alwayscover your face and protect youreyes and also provide ventilation. Applying too much pressureon the ends when lifting a battery...

Maintenance and care 179 Relearning the idle function Because your vehicle’s engine iselectronically controlled, somecontrol conditions are maintainedby power from the battery. Whenthe battery is disconnected or anew battery is installed, thecomputer must “relearn” its idleconditions before your veh...

Maintenance and care 180 Checking wiper blades Check the wiper blades on yourvehicle for roughness by runningthe tips of your fingers over theedge of the blade. Traces of grease, silicone and fuelprevent wiper blades fromfunctioning properly. Werecommend Ford cleaningsolutions or equivalent to clean...

Maintenance and care 183 Treadwear The treadwear grade is acomparative rating based on thewear rate of the tire when testedunder controlled conditions on aspecified government test course.For example, a tire graded 150would wear one and one-half(1 1/2) times as well on thegovernment course as a tire...

Maintenance and care 184 Temperature A B C The temperature grades are A (thehighest), B, and C, representingthe tire’s resistance to thegeneration of heat and its ability todissipate heat when tested undercontrolled conditions on a specifiedindoor laboratory test wheel.Sustained high temperature can...

Maintenance and care 185 Checking tire pressure Check the tire pressureperiodically after the vehicle hasbeen parked for at least one houror has been driven less than 5 km(3 miles). Inflate the tires asnecessary. To check the tirepressure, insert the tire pressuregauge into the valve. The cold press...

Maintenance and care 186 Failure to follow theseprecautions may adversely affect the handling of the vehicleand make it easier to lose controland roll over. Replacing tires Replace tires when the wear bandis visible through the tire treads. When replacing full sizetires, never mix radial, bias- belt...

Maintenance and care 187 Dispose of worn tires in accordance with local environmental regulations. Refer to the Safety ComplianceCertification label to determine thespecific size tire and wheel FordMotor Company recommends foruse on this vehicle. When purchasing replacement tiresfor your vehicle, co...

Maintenance and care 188 The tires on your vehicle have all-weather treads to provide tractionin rain and snow. However, in someclimates, using snow tires andchains may be necessary. Fordoffers snow chains as a Fordapproved accessory andrecommends use of these or theirequivalents on approved tires. ...

Maintenance and care 189 Change over from winter to summer tires as soon as road conditions allow, this will reducefuel consumption and noise in thevehicle’s interior. • Drive cautiously. If you hear thechains rub or bang against thevehicle, stop and retighten them. Ifthis does not work, remove thec...

Maintenance and care 190 Automotive fuels can causeserious injury or death if misused or mishandled. IMPORTANT FUELINFORMATON Important safety precautions Do not overfill the fuel tank.The pressure in an overfilled tank may cause leakage and leadto fuel spray and fire. If you do not use the properfu...

Maintenance and care 192 Choosing the right fuel Use only UNLEADED FUEL. Theuse of leaded fuel is prohibited bylaw and could damage your vehicle.The damage may not be covered byyour warranty. Your vehicle was not designed touse fuel containing manganese-based additives such as MMT.Additionally, vehi...

Maintenance and care 193 Octane recommendations Your vehicle is designed to useregular gasoline with an (R+M)/2octane rating of 87. We do notrecommend gasolines labeled as“regular” in high altitude areas thatare sold with octane ratings of 86or even less. Do not be concerned if your vehiclesometimes...

Maintenance and care 194 The fuel system may beunder pressure. If the fuel filler cap is venting vapor or if youhear a hissing sound, wait until itstops before completely removingthe fuel filler cap. Otherwise fuelmay spray out and injure you orothers. Fuel filler cap If the “check engine” indicator...

Maintenance and care 195 Calculating fuel economy To accurately calculate yourvehicle’s fuel economy: 1. Fill the tank completely andrecord the initial odometer reading. 2. Each time you fill the tank,record the amount of fuel added(in litres or gallons). 3. After at least three to five fill-ups, fi...

Maintenance and care 196 EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM Your vehicle is equipped withvarious emission controlcomponents and a catalyticconverter which will enable yourvehicle to comply with applicableexhaust emission standards. Tomake sure that the catalyticconverter and other emissioncontrol components co...

Maintenance and care 200 The bulbs for the low beam, highbeam, turn signals and side lampsare housed in the lamp assembly.To replace a bulb, the completelamp assembly has to be removedas follows: 1. Switch off the lamps. 2. Open the hood. 3. Remove the lower screw (2)from the headlamp housing. 4. Re...

Maintenance and care 201 Reinstalling the headlampassembly The gasket lining must be seatedproperly around the lamp assemblywhen reinstalling. All bulb connectors must becorrectly connected. Install in the reverse order. Headlamps – low beam Disconnect the electrical connectorand replace the bulb. D...

Maintenance and care 202 Foglamps (if equipped) 1. Turn the bulb counterclockwiseand pull it out of the light assembly. 2. Remove the electrical connector. 3. Fit the new bulb in reverse order(do not touch the glass part of thebulb). Front turn signal/side lamps Pull the socket out. Pull the bulbout...

Maintenance and care 203 License plate lamp Pry out the light assembly with aflat-bladed screwdriver. Removethe bulb from the clip holder. Replace with the new bulb inreverse sequence. Brake/turn signal/tail lamps 1. Disconnect the electricalconnector. 2. Turn the socketcounterclockwise and pull it ...

Maintenance and care 204 High-mounted brake lamp Enter the rear seat compartment.1. Remove the high mounted stoplamp assembly. 2. Remove the red bulb cover. 3. Remove inoperative stop lampbulb. To install, fit the new bulb inreverse sequence. On vehicles equipped with a rearspoiler, the high-mounted...

Maintenance and care 205 Interior lamps (sunroof equipped vehicles) Open the lamp assembly. The bulbs can be replaced after thecontact plate has been hingedback. Interior lamps with readinglamps (if equipped) Remove the clip located on lens toaccess the center bulb. To replace the reading lamp bulbs...

Maintenance and care 206 Function Trade number 3457 NA 9005 9006 893 1157 1156 Front /turn lamp Headlamp (high) Headlamp (low) Foglamp/License plate lamp Rear tail/turn/brake lamp Backup lamp Bulb specifications 2723 C5W High-mounted brake lamp Interior lamp 211-2 License plate lamp Reading lamp 578...

Maintenance and care 208 Adjusting the horizontal aim 1. Make sure the vehicle is on a level surface . 2.With the hood open, locate thehorizontal indicator and adjustingscrew. Through the viewing hole onthe outboard side of the headlamp. 3. Turn the horizontal adjustingscrew until the “0” reference ...

Maintenance and care 209 Adjusting the vertical aim The numbers shown on the vialindicate beam direction in degreesup or down. 1. Make sure the vehicle is on levelground. 2. With the hood open, locate thebubble level vertical aim indicator,and adjusting screw. It is visiblewhen viewed from the above...

Maintenance and care 210 Washing your vehicle Only use car washing areas that have environmentally friendly drainage systems. VEHICLE CARE Wash your vehicle regularly withcold or lukewarm water. Never usestrong detergents or soap. If yourvehicle is particularly dirty, use aquality car wash detergent...

Maintenance and care 211 Waxing your vehicle The best way to determine whenthe paintwork needs waxing is bynoting when water stops beadingon the surface. This could be everythree or four months depending onoperating conditions. Use only carnauba or synthetic-based waxes. Remove any bugs andtar befor...

Maintenance and care 212 Repairing paint chips Minor scratches or paint damagefrom road debris may be repairedwith touch-up paint, paint repairfoil or aerosol spray from the Fordaccessories line. Observe theapplication instructions on theproducts. Cleaning the wheels Wash the wheels with the samedet...

Maintenance and care 213 Cleaning the engine Engines are more efficient whenthey are clean because grease anddirt buildup act as insulators andkeep the engine warmer thannormal. Follow these guidelines toclean your engine: • Take care when using a powerwasher to clean the engine. Thehigh pressure fl...

Maintenance and care 214 Cleaning plastic exterior parts Use a vinyl cleaner for routinecleaning of plastic. Clean with a tarremover if necessary. Do not cleanplastic parts with thinners, solventsor petroleum-based cleaners. Cleaning the exterior lamps Wash the exterior lamps with thesame detergent ...

Maintenance and care 215 Cleaning the interior fabric Remove dust and loose dirt with awhisk broom or a vacuum cleaner.Remove fresh spots immediately.Follow the directions that comewith the cleaner. Cleaning leather seats (if equipped) For routine cleaning, wipe thesurface with a soft, damp cloth. F...

Maintenance and care 216 Cleaning and maintaining thesafety belts Clean the safety belts with a mildsoap solution recommended forcleaning upholstery or carpets andwarm water. Do not bleach or dyethe belts, because these actionsmay weaken the belt webbing. Check the safety belt systemperiodically to ...

217 Capacities and specifications * Refer to Vehicle Emission Control Information (VECI) decal for spark plug and gap specifications. ** If a spark plug is removed for examination, it must be reinstalled in the same cylinder. If a spark plug needs to be replaced, use only spark plugs with the servic...

Capacities and specifications 218 * Total capacity ** with automatic transaxle Engine oil- with filter- without Manual transaxle 1.9 l (2.0 qts) Automatic transaxlewith oil cooler Power steering Cooling system with heating Windshield washer fluid Fuel tank Braking system 4.25 l (4.5 qts)3.75 l (4.0 ...

Lubricant Specifications Item Ford part name or equivalent High performance DOT 3 brake fluid, DOT 4 brake fluid or Super DOT 4 Premium engine coolant Motorcraft motor oil 5W-30 super premium MERCON ® power steering fluid Motorcraft* MERCON ® ATF Ultra-clear windshield washer concentrate Ford part n...

Capacities and specifications 220 Engine data * Mechanical valve adjuster 2.0 litre Engine 2.5 litre Engine 1988 2544 96 (125) 5500 125 (170) 6250 176 (130) 4000 220 (162) 4250 6150 6700 6375 6925 800±50 (880±50) 725±50 (725±50) 1-3-4-2 1-4-2-5-3-6 1.3 Electronically controlled Idle speed (manual tr...

D A E B C Dimensions mm (inches) 4556 (179.4) 1751 (68.9) 1380 - 1427 (54.3 - 56.2) 2704 (106.5) 1499 - 1518* (59.0 - 59.8) 1483 - 1502* (58.4 - 59.1) A = Maximum length B = Overall width (without mirrors) C = Overall height (curb weight) D = Wheelbase E = Track Front Rear * Dependent on tire size 2...

Customer assistance 223 GETTING ROADSIDEASSISTANCE To fully assist you should you havea vehicle concern. Ford offers acomplimentary roadside assistanceprogram. This program is separatefrom the New Vehicle LimitedWarranty. The service is available: • 24-hours, seven days a week • for the Basic warran...

Customer assistance 224 Ford extended service plan You can get more protection foryour new car or light truck bypurchasing Ford Extended ServicePlan (Ford ESP) coverage. FordESP is an optional service contractwhich is backed by Ford MotorCompany or Ford Motor ServiceCompany (in the U.S.) and Ford of...

Customer assistance 225 Getting the service you need At home Ford Motor Company and Ford ofCanada have authorizeddealerships to service your vehicle.When you need warranty repairsyour selling dealer would like youto return to it for that service, butyou may also take your vehicle toanother Ford Moto...

Customer assistance 226 Please have the followinginformation available whencontacting Ford CustomerAssistance: • Your telephone number (homeand business) • The name of the dealer and thecity where the dealership is located • The year and make of yourvehicle • The date of vehicle purchase • The curre...

Customer assistance 227 • sales disputes between customerand dealer except those associatedwith warranty repairs or concernswith the vehicle's performance asdesigned • a request for reimbursement ofconsequential expenses unless aservice or product concern beingreviewed • items not covered by the New...

Customer assistance 228 To properly review your case, theBoard needs the followinginformation: • legible copies of all documentsand maintenance or repair ordersrelevant to the case • the year, make, model, andVehicle Identification Number(VIN) listed on your vehicleownership license • the date of re...

Customer assistance 231 Ford Triple Clean Ford Ultra-Clear Spray GlassCleaner * May be sold with the Motorcraftname A wide selection of accessories isavailable through your localauthorized Ford, Lincoln-Mercuryor Ford of Canada dealer. Thesequality accessories have beenspecifically engineered to ful...

Customer assistance 232 Travel equipment Console Console armrest Daytime running lights Factory luggage rack Factory luggage rack adapters Fog lights Framed luggage covers Heavy-duty battery Neutral towing transfer case kit(Explorer 4.0L only) Off road lights Pickup box rails Removable luggage rack ...

Reporting safety defects 235 REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS(U.S. ONLY) If you believe that your vehicle hasa defect that could cause a crash,or could cause injury or death, youshould immediately inform theNational Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration (NHTSA) inaddition to Ford Motor Company. If NHTSA rece...

Index 236 A Page Accessory position on the ignition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52Additives, engine oil . . . . . . . . .165Air bag supplementalrestraint system and child safety seats . . . . . . . .84description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...

244 Filling station information UNLEADED FUEL ONLYOctane 87 58.5 litres (15.4 gallons) Use Motorcraft 5W-30 Formula EFuel Economy Motor Oil, Fordspecification WSS-M2C153-G. Refer to Safety ComplianceCertification label on driver’s doorpillar Pull handle under the left side ofthe instrument panel Rig...