Ford 2003 Explorer v.5- User Manual

SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION Warning symbols in this guide How can you reduce the risk of personal injury and prevent possibledamage to others, your vehicle and its equipment? In this guide, answersto such questions are contained in comments highlighted by the warningtriangle symbol. These comm...

SPECIAL NOTICES Special instructions For your added safety, your vehicle is fitted with sophisticated electroniccontrols. Please read the section Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) in the Seating and safety restraints chapter. Failure to follow the specific warnings and instructions could result in...

Emission warranty The New Vehicle Limited Warranty includes Bumper-to-Bumper Coverage,Safety Restraint Coverage, Corrosion Coverage, and 7.3L Power StrokeDiesel Engine Coverage. In addition, your vehicle is eligible for EmissionsDefect and Emissions Performance Warranties. For a detailed description...

These are some of the symbols you may see on your vehicle. Vehicle Symbol Glossary Safety Alert See Owner’s Guide Fasten Safety Belt Air Bag-Front Air Bag-Side Child Seat Child Seat InstallationWarning Child Seat LowerAnchor Child Seat TetherAnchor Brake System Anti-Lock Brake System Brake Fluid -No...

WARNING LIGHTS AND CHIMES Standard instrument cluster Optional instrument cluster Warning lights and gauges can alert you to a vehicle condition that maybecome serious enough to cause expensive repairs. A warning light mayilluminate when a problem exists with one of your vehicle’s functions.Many lig...

On board diagnostics (OBD-II) in the Maintenance and Specifications chapter. If the light is blinking, engine misfire is occurring which coulddamage your catalytic converter. Drive in a moderate fashion (avoidheavy acceleration and deceleration) and have your vehicle servicedimmediately. Under engin...

Air bag readiness: If this light fails to illuminate when ignition is turnedto ON, continues to flash or remainson, have the system servicedimmediately. A chime will alsosound when a malfunction in the supplemental restraint system has beendetected. Safety belt: Reminds you to fasten your safety bel...

AdvanceTrac 娂 (if equipped): Illuminates when the AdvanceTrac 娂 system is active. If the light remainson, have the system servicedimmediately. Four wheel drive low (ifequipped): Illuminates when four-wheel drive low is engaged. Four wheel drive high (ifequipped): Illuminates when four-wheel drive hi...

GAUGES Standard instrument cluster gauges Optional instrument cluster gauges Speedometer: Indicates the current vehicle speed. 2003 Explorer (exp) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)USA English (fus) Instrument Cluster 14

Tachometer: Indicates the engine speed in revolutions per minute.Driving with your tachometerpointer continuously at the top ofthe scale may damage the engine. Battery voltage gauge: Indicates the battery voltage when theignition is in the ON position. If thepointer moves and stays outside thenormal...

AUDIOPHILE IN-DASH SIX CD SOUND SYSTEM 1. Seek: Works in radio or CD mode. Press and releaseSEEK / for previous/next strong station or track. 2. Rewind: In CD mode, press to reverse the CD Fast forward: In CD mode, press until desired selection is reached. 3. DSP (Digital Signal Processing if equipp...

Traffic: Allows you to hear traffic broadcasts. With the feature ON, press SEEK or SCAN to find a station broadcasting a traffic report (if it isbroadcasting RDS data). Traffic information is not available in most U.S. markets. FIND Program type: Allows you to search RDS-equipped stations for a cert...

Automatic Volume Control (if equipped): Changes the volume automatically and slightly with vehicle speed to compensate for road andwind noise. The recommended level is 1–3. Level 0 turns the speedsensitive volume off and level 7 is the maximum setting.Press and hold the volume control for five secon...

MP3 AUDIO SYSTEM 1. Balance: Press / to shift sound to the left/right speakers. 2. Fade: Press / to shift sound to the rear/front speakers. 3. Scan: Press to hear a brief sampling of all listenable radiostations, CD or MP3 tracks. Pressagain to stop. 4. CLK: To set the clock press and hold the CLK c...

21. Treble: Press / to decrease/increase the treble output. MP3 functions Your audio system is equipped with MP3 capability which allows you tolisten to songs in MP3 flat file mode and MP3 directory mode. To engage MP3 flat file mode, insert an MP3 disc. If an MP3 disc isalready present in the playe...

Error messages You may experience an error message for the following situations: • NO DISC when the CD control is pressed and there is not a CDpresent. • DISC ERR when there is a damaged or unreadable disc. Such as, datadiscs containing no .mp3 files, or for data discs containing more than255 files ...

Don’t: • Expose tapes to direct sunlight, extreme humidity, heat or cold. • Leave tapes in the cassette player for a long time when not beingplayed. CD/CD PLAYER CARE Do: • Handle discs by their edges only. Never touch the playing surface. • Inspect discs before playing. Clean only with an approved ...

MANUAL HEATING AND AIRCONDITIONING SYSTEM 1. Temperature selection: Controls the temperature of theairflow in the vehicle. 2. Air flow selections: Controls the direction of the airflow in thevehicle. See the following for a briefdescription on each control. MAX A/C: Uses recirculated air through the...

To aid in side window defogging/demisting in cold weather: 1. Select 2. Select A/C 3. Modulate the temperature control to maintain comfort. 4. Set the fan speed to HI 5. Direct the outer instrument panel vents towards the side windows To increase airflow to the outer instrument panel vents, close th...

14. Driver’s side temperature control: Controls the temperature on the driver side of the vehicle. 15. Fan Speed: Used to manually enable or disable the fan speed. 16. EXT: Displays the outside air temperature. It will remaindisplayed until the EXT control ispressed again. The external temperature w...

Do not place objects on top of the instrument panel as theseobjects may become projectiles in a collision or sudden stop. Auxiliary system (if equipped) Your vehicle may be equipped with auxiliary climate controls. Theseallow the front or rear seat passengers to control airflow direction,temperature...

1. Temperature control: Determines temperature levels. Ifthe main climate control system iscooling in MAX A/C or mode, the auxiliary controls will notfunction as the entire vehicle willoperate at a full cool temperature. 2. Mode selector: Press to select between air flow to (Floor) or (Panel). Direc...

HEADLAMP CONTROL Turns the lamps off. Turns on the parking lamps, instrument panel lamps, licenseplate lamps and tail lamps. Turns the headlamps on. Autolamp delay system The autolamp system sets the headlamps to turn on and offautomatically. The autolamp control, located on the headlamp control,may...

Move the control to the full down position (past detent) to preventinterior lamps from illuminating when the doors are opened. AIMING THE HEADLAMPS The headlamps on your vehicle are properly aimed before leaving theassembly plant. If your vehicle is involved in an accident or if you haveproblems fix...

5. Locate the vertical adjuster foreach headlamp. Adjust the aim byturning the adjuster control eitherclockwise (to adjust down) orcounterclockwise (to adjust up). Note: Use a 4 mm socket or box wrench to turn the vertical adjustercontrol. 6. Horizontal aiming is not requiredfor this vehicle and isn...

NOTE: If your vehicle is equipped with the Remote Keyless Entry feature, the courtesy lamp will remain on for 25 seconds after the door isshut or until the ignition is turned to the ON position. To use the reading lamps: • Press the rocker control located near each reading lamp to turn it on. • Pres...

Replacing headlamp bulbs Do not touch the glass of a halogen bulb. 1. Turn off the headlamps and openthe hood. 2. Pry up the two retainer pins untilthey stop to release the headlampsassembly from the vehicle, then pullheadlamp forward. 3. Disconnect the electricalconnector by pushing the center taba...

Replacing front parking lamp/turn signal/sidemarker bulbs 1. Turn off the headlamp switch tooff. 2. Remove headlamp screw from thebulb assembly. 3. Disengage lamp assembly. 4. Rotate the bulb socketcounterclockwise and remove itfrom the lamp assembly. 5. Pull the bulb straight out. Reverse steps to ...

MULTI-FUNCTION LEVER Windshield wiper: Rotate the end of the control away from you toincrease the speed of the wipers;rotate towards you to decrease thespeed of the wipers. Speed dependent wipers: When the wiper control is on, the speed ofthe wipers will automatically adjustwith the vehicle speed. T...

CENTER CONSOLE Your vehicle may be equipped with avariety of console features. Theseinclude: • Utility compartment withcassette/compact disc storage • Auxiliary power point • Cupholders • Tissue box holder (located on underside of console lid) • Ash tray (if equipped) Use only soft cups in the cupho...

Rear console features The rear console may incorporatethe following features: • air vents • cupholders (will pull up withbreak away feature) • rear power point OVERHEAD CONSOLE (IF EQUIPPED) The appearance of your vehicle’s overhead console will vary according toyour option package. Storage compartm...

Illuminated visor mirror (if equipped) Lift the mirror cover to turn on thevisor mirror lamps. AUXILIARY POWER POINT Power point outlets are designedfor accessory use only. Do nothang any type of accessories oraccessory bracket from the theirplugs. Improper use of thepower point outlet can causedama...

Window lock The window lock feature allows onlythe driver to operate the powerwindows. To lock out all the window controlsexcept for the driver’s press the leftside of the control. Press the rightside to restore the window controls. Accessory delay With accessory delay, the window switches and audio...

Fold-away mirrors Pull the side mirrors in carefullywhen driving through a narrowspace, like an automatic car wash. POWER ADJUSTABLE FOOT PEDALS (IF EQUIPPED) The accelerator and brake pedalshould only be adjusted when thevehicle is stopped and the gearshiftlever is in the P (Park) position. Press a...

Setting speed control The controls for using your speedcontrol are located on the steeringwheel for your convenience. 1. Press the ON control and releaseit. 2. Accelerate to the desired speed. 3. Press the SET + control andrelease it. 4. Take your foot off the acceleratorpedal. 5. The indicator ligh...

STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS (IF EQUIPPED) These controls allow you to operate some radio and climate controlfeatures. Audio control features Press to select: • AM, FM1, FM2, • TAPE (if equipped), • CD (if equipped), or • DVD (if equipped). In AM, FM1, or FM2 mode: • Press MEM to select presetstations wi...

Climate control features Press TMP + or - to adjusttemperature. Press + or - to adjust fan speed. MOON ROOF (IF EQUIPPED) You can move the glass panel of the moon roof back to open or tilt up toventilate the vehicle. To open the moon roof: The moon roof is equipped with anautomatic, one-touch, expre...

To vent:To tilt the moon roof into the vent position (when the glass panel isclosed), press and hold the front portion of the control. To close themoon roof from the vent position, press and hold the rear portion of thecontrol until the glass panel stops moving.If the battery is disconnected, discha...

6. At the garage door opener receiver (motor-head unit) in the garage,locate the “learn” or “smart” button (usually near where the hangingantenna wire is attached to the unit). 7. Press and release the “learn” or “smart” button. (The name and colorof the button may vary by manufacturer.) Note: There...

Operating the HomeLink 姞 Wireless Control System To operate, simply press and releasethe appropriate HomeLink 威 button. Activation will now occur for thetrained product (garage door, gateoperator, security system, entrydoor lock, or home or office lightingetc.). For convenience, thehand-held transmi...

ELECTRONIC COMPASS/TEMPERATURE DISPLAY (IF EQUIPPED) OUTSIDE AIR TEMPERATURE The outside temperature display iscontained in the instrument clusterand displays all the time. Ifequipped with the DEATC climatecontrol system, the outsidetemperature will be displayed there. To turn the display off or cha...

3. Locate compass sensor mountedat base of mirror. 4. Press the button on the top ofthe compass module until ZONEappears in the instrument clusterdisplay. 5. Release pressure on the button and then slowly press it down again. 6. Continue to press until ZONEappears in the instrument clusterdisplay, t...

MESSAGE CENTER (IF EQUIPPED) With the ignition in the ON position,the message center, located on yourinstrument cluster, displaysimportant vehicle information through a constant monitor ofvehicle systems. You may select display features on the message center for a display of status precededby a brie...

5. OIL PRESSURE 6. TIRE PRESSURE SYSTEM (if equipped) 7. BRAKE FLUID LEVEL 8. CHARGING SYSTEM System warnings System warnings alert you to possible problems or malfunctions in yourvehicle’s operating systems. In the event of a multiple warning situation, the message center willcycle the display to s...

POSITIVE RETENTION FLOOR MAT Position the driver floor mat so thatthe eyelet is over the pointed end ofthe retention post and rotateforward to lock in. Make sure thatthe mat does not interfere with theoperation of the accelerator or thebrake pedal. To remove the floormat, reverse the installationpro...

The liftgate door and window should be closed before driving. If not,possible damage may occur to your vehicle. Always close liftgate window before opening liftgate. Liftgateglass and liftgate should never be open at the same time. Failure to observe this warning may result in personal injury or dam...

7 passenger stowage: 1. To open, lift the release handleand the lid. 2. To close, lower the lid, lift therelease handle and press down onthe lid. 5 passenger stowage: When the lid is open, it will standup on its own. The lid can bedetached from the vehicle and usedas a knee pad (carpet side up) forc...

KEYS One key operates all the locks and starts the vehicle. Always carry aspare key with you in case of an emergency. Your keys are programmed to your vehicle; using a non-programmed keywill not permit your vehicle to start. If you lose your dealer suppliedkeys, replacement keys are available throug...

Childproof door locks • When these locks are set, therear doors cannot be opened fromthe inside. • The rear doors can be openedfrom the outside when the doorsare unlocked. The childproof locks are located onrear edge of each rear door andmust be set separately for eachdoor. Setting the lock for one ...

Memory seats/adjustable pedals/easy entry-exit feature(if equipped) The remote entry system can also control the memory seat /adjustablepedals/easy entry-exit feature. Press to automatically move the seat and adjustable pedals to the desired memory position (the seat position corresponds to thetrans...

• other vehicles parked next to the vehicle. To replace the battery: 1. Twist a thin coin between the twohalves of the remote entrytransmitter near the key ring. DONOT TAKE THE RUBBER COVERAND CIRCUIT BOARD OFF THEFRONT HOUSING OF THEREMOTE ENTRY TRANSMITTER. 2. Do not wipe off any grease on thebatt...

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 theignition has been turned to the OFF position. KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED) You can use the keyless entrykeyp...

• the ignition key is in the ON position, • the gearshift lever is shifted into R reverse or a forward gear and • the brake pedal is released. This feature will also automatically relock all the doors when: • the ignition is running and any door is opened then closed, and • you put the vehicle in mo...

key chain may cause vehicle starting issues. You need to prevent theseobjects from touching the coded key while starting the engine. Theseobjects will not cause damage to the coded key, but may cause amomentary issue if they are too close to the key when starting theengine. If a problem occurs, turn...

SEATING Notes: Reclining the seatback can cause an occupant to slide under theseat’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 ofinjury in a collision or sudden stop. Adjustable head restraints Head ...

Push control to lower head restraint. Adjusting the front manual seat (if equipped) Never adjust the driver’s seat or seatback when the vehicle ismoving. Always drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lapbelt snug and low across the hips. Lift handle to move seat forward orbackward. Pull l...

Adjusting the front power seat (if equipped) The control is located on theoutboard side of the seat cushion. Press front to raise or lower thefront portion of the seat cushion. Press rear to raise or lower the rearportion of the seat cushion. Press the control to move the seatforward, backward, up o...

Using the manual lumbar support For more lumbar support, turn thelumbar support control toward thefront of vehicle. For less lumbar support, turn thelumbar support control toward therear of vehicle. Heated seats (if equipped) To operate the heated seats: • Push control located on the seatto activate...

1. Locate handle on the side of theseat cushion by the door. 2. Push the handle up and push theseatback toward the front of thevehicle. 3. Press down on the top outboardarea of the seatback until a click isheard. To return the seat to the uprightposition: 1. Push the handle up and lift theseatback t...

3. To return the seat to a seatingposition, flip the seat into theupright position. 4. Make sure the seat is latched tothe floor. To exit the 3rd row seat, pull thered access control lever up releasingthe seat from the floor and rotatethe seat up towards the front seat. Always latch the vehicle seat...

2. Pull the seat release lever locatedon top of the seatback while liftingthe seatback into the uprightposition. 3. The seatback will latch into place. The third row seat is equipped with combination lap and shoulder beltsin both seating positions. For information on the proper operation of thesafet...

effectiveness of the safety belts and helps properly position the occupantrelative to the air bag to improve protection. The safety beltpretensioners can be either activated alone or, if the collision is ofsufficient severity, together with the air bags. Front safety belt energy management retractor...

Never let a passenger hold a child on his or her lap while thevehicle is moving. The passenger cannot protect the child from injury in a collision. All occupants of the vehicle, including the driver, should alwaysproperly wear their safety belts, even when an air bag (SRS) is provided. It is extreme...

• This safety belt system has a retractor assembly that is designed toextend the seat belt webbing in a controlled manner. This helpsreduce the belt force acting on the user’s chest. BELT AND RETRACTOR ASSEMBLY MUST BE REPLACED ifthe safety belt assembly automatic locking retractor feature or any ot...

All safety restraints in the vehicle are combination lap and shoulderbelts. All of the passenger combination lap and shoulder belts have twotypes of locking modes described below: Vehicle sensitive mode This is the normal retractor mode, which allows free shoulder belt lengthadjustment to your movem...

• Grasp the shoulder portion andpull downward until the entirebelt is pulled out. • Allow the belt to retract. As the belt retracts, you will hear a clickingsound. This indicates the safety belt is now in the automatic lockingmode. How to disengage the automatic locking mode Unbuckle the combination...

When the Safety Canopy 娂 system or the front airbags are activated, the safety belt pretensioners for the driver and right front passenger seatingpositions will be activated when the respective seatbelt is properlybuckled. The driver and the right front passenger seat belt system(including retractor...

the label. Also, use the safety belt extension only if the safety belt is tooshort for you when fully extended. Do not use extensions to change the fit of the shoulder beltacross the torso. Safety belt warning light and indicator chime The safety belt warning light illuminates in the instrument clus...

If... Then... The driver’s safety belt is notbuckled before the vehicle hasreached at least 5 km/h (3 mph)and 1-2 minutes have elapsedsince the ignition switch has beenturned to ON... The BeltMinder feature isactivated - the safety belt warninglight illuminates and the warningchime sounds for 6 seco...

Reasons given... Consider... “Traffic is light” Nearly 1 of 2 deaths occur in single-vehiclecrashes, many when no other vehicles are around. “Belts wrinkle myclothes” Possibly, but a serious crash can do much morethan wrinkle your clothes, particularly if you areunbelted. “The people I’mwith don’t w...

Read steps 1 - 9 thoroughly before proceeding with thedeactivation/activation programming procedure. BeltMinder deactivation/activation procedure To reduce the risk of injury, do not deactivate/activate the BeltMinder feature while driving the vehicle. 1. Turn the ignition switch to the RUN (or ON) ...

there are no nicks, tears or cuts. Replace if necessary. All safety beltassemblies, including retractors, buckles, front seat belt buckleassemblies, buckle support assemblies (slide bar-if equipped), shoulderbelt height adjusters (if equipped), shoulder belt guide on seatback (ifequipped), child saf...

Important SRS precautions The SRS is designed to work withthe safety belt to help protect thedriver and right front passengerfrom certain upper body injuries. Airbags DO NOT inflate slowly; there isa risk of injury from a deploying airbag. All occupants of the vehicle, including the driver, should a...

Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the air bagsupplemental restraint systems or its fuses. See your Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealer. Modifications to the front end of the vehicle, including frame,bumper, front end body structure and non-Ford tow hooks may effect the performance of the air b...

How does the air bag supplemental restraint system work? The air bag SRS is designed toactivate when the vehicle sustainslongitudinal deceleration sufficientto cause the sensors to close anelectrical circuit that initiates airbag inflation. The fact that the air bags did notinflate in a collision do...

Several air bag system components get hot after inflation. Do nottouch 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 acollision. The SRS ...

Safety Canopy 姟 system (if equipped) Do not place objects ormount equipment on or near the headliner at the siderailthat may come into contact with adeploying Safety Canopy 娂 . Failure to follow these instructions mayincrease the risk of personal injuryin the event of a collision. Do not lean your h...

How does the Safety Canopy 姟 system work? The design and development of theSafety Canopy 娂 system included recommended testing proceduresthat were developed by a group ofautomotive safety experts known asthe Side Airbag Technical WorkingGroup. These recommended testingprocedures help reduce the risk...

• The readiness light will not illuminate immediately after ignition isturned on. • A series of five beeps will be heard. The tone pattern will repeatperiodically until the problem and light are repaired. If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the SRS servicedat your dealership or ...

• Can the child sit all the way backagainst the vehicle seat back withknees bent comfortably at theedge of the seat withoutslouching? • 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? Typ...

The shoulder belt should cross the chest, resting snugly on the center ofthe 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 meshsold as shelf or carpet liner under the booster seat...

Installing child safety seats with combination lap and shoulderbelts 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 theway back. Children 12 and ...

7. Pull the lap belt portion acrossthe child seat toward the buckle andpull up on the shoulder belt whilepushing down with your knee on thechild seat. 8. Allow the safety belt to retract toremove any slack in the belt. 9. Before placing the child in theseat, forcibly move the seat forwardand back to...

STARTING Positions of the ignition 1. OFF/LOCK, shuts off the engineand all accessories/locks the steeringwheel, gearshift lever and allows keyremoval. 2. ACC, allows the electricalaccessories such as the radio tooperate while the engine is notrunning. This position also unlocksthe steering wheel. 3...

Starting the engine 1. Turn the key to 3 (ON) withoutturning the key to 4 (START). Ifthere is difficulty in turning the key,rotate the steering wheel until thekey turns freely. This condition mayoccur when: • the front wheels are turned • a front wheel is against the curb 2. Turn the key to 4 (START...

Four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS) Your vehicle is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Thissystem helps you maintain steering control during emergency stops bykeeping the brakes from locking. Noise from the ABS pump motor andbrake pedal pulsation may be observed during ABS braking;...

Vehicles with a higher center of gravity such as utility andfour-wheel drive vehicles handle differently than vehicles with a lower center of gravity. Utility and four-wheel drive vehicles are not designed for cornering at speeds as high as passenger cars any morethan low-slung sports cars are desig...

5. Return the cover plate (rotateclockwise) to the closed position.Start the vehicle. If it is necessary to use the above procedure to move the gearshift lever,it is possible that a fuse has blown or the vehicle’s brakelamps are notoperating properly. Refer to Fuses and relays in the Roadside emerge...

LIMITED-SLIP AXLE (IF EQUIPPED) This axle provides added traction on slippery surfaces, particularly whenone wheel is on a poor traction surface. Under normal conditions, thelimited slip axle functions like a standard rear axle. Extended use of other than the manufacturer’s specified size tires on a...

Using the Control Trac 4WD system 4X4 AUTO - Power to all four wheels; used for normal street and highway driving. 4X4 HIGH (4WD High) - Used for extra traction such as in snow or icy roads or in off-road situations. Not intended for use on dry pavement. 4X4 LOW (4WD Low) - Uses extra gearing to pro...

• If shifting into 4X4 LOW (4WD Low), wait for the 4X4 LOW light inthe instrument cluster to turn on indicating the shift is complete. • If shifting out of 4X4 LOW (4WD Low), wait for the 4X4 LOW light inthe instrument cluster to turn off indicating the shift is complete. Driving off-road with truck...

pavement only after reducing your speed. Do not turn the steeringwheel too sharply while returning to the road surface. • It may be safer to stay on the apron or shoulder of the road and slowdown gradually before returning to the pavement. You may losecontrol if you do not slow down or if you turn t...

Do not spin the wheels at over 56 km/h (35 mph). The tires mayfail and injure a passenger or bystander. Emergency maneuvers • In an unavoidable emergency situation where a sudden sharp turnmust be made, remember to avoid “over-driving” your vehicle, i.e.,turn the steering wheel only as rapidly and a...

Mud and water If you must drive through highwater, drive slowly. Traction orbrake capability may be limited. When driving through water,determine the depth; avoid waterhigher than the bottom of the hubs(if possible) and proceed slowly. Ifthe ignition system gets wet, the vehicle may stall. Once thro...

possibly rolling over. Whenever driving on a hill, determine beforehandthe route you will use. Do not drive over the crest of a hill withoutseeing what conditions are on the other side. Do not drive in reverseover a hill without the aid of an observer. When climbing a steep slope or hill,start in a ...

Do not use “aftermarket lift kits” or other suspension modifications,whether or not they are used with larger tires and wheels. These “aftermarket lift kits” could adversely affect the vehicle’s handlingcharacteristics, which could lead to loss of vehicle control or rollover andserious injury. Tires...

Ford Motor Company recommends that caution be used with any vehicleequipped with a high load or device (such as ladder racks or pickup boxcover). Failure to maintain your vehicle properly may void the warranty, increaseyour repair cost, reduce vehicle performance and operational capabilitiesand adve...

Vehicles with a higher center of gravity such as utility andfour-wheel drive vehicles handle differently than vehicles with a lower center of gravity. Utility and four-wheel drive vehicles are not designed for cornering at speeds as high as passenger cars any morethan low-slung sports cars are desig...

Maintenance and Modifications The suspension and steering systems on your vehicle have been designedand tested to provide predictable performance whether loaded or emptyand durable load carrying capability. For this reason, Ford MotorCompany strongly recommends that you do not make modifications suc...

Exceeding any vehicle weight rating limitation could result inserious damage to the vehicle, loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, and/or personal injury. Do not use replacement tires with lower load carrying capacities than theoriginals because they may lower the vehicle’s GVWR and GAWRlimitat...

4x2 w/automatic transmission GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)/Trailer Weight Engine Rear axle ratio Maximum GCWR-kg(lbs.) Trailer weightrange-kg (lbs.)(0-Maximum) 4.0L SOHC/4.6L* 3.55 3493 (7700) 0-1497 (0-3300) 4.0L SOHC 3.73 LS 3493 (7700) 0–1588 (0-3500) 4.0L SOHCw/Class IIITrailer TowPackage ...

4x4 w/automatic transmission GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)/Trailer Weight Engine Rear axle ratio Maximum GCWR-kg(lbs.) Trailer weightrange-kg (lbs.)(0-Maximum) 4.0L SOHC/4.6L* 3.55 3493 (7700) 0-1542 (0-3400) 4.0L SOHCw/Class IIITrailer TowPackage 3.73 LS 4536 (10000) 0-2440 (0-5380) 4.6L* 3.7...

Safety chains Always connect the trailer’s safety chains to the frame or hook retainersof the vehicle hitch. To connect the trailer’s safety chains, cross thechains under the trailer tongue and allow slack for turning corners.If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions that the rental agenc...

• Under extreme conditions with large frontal trailers, high outsidetemperatures and highway speeds, the coolant gauge may indicatehigher than normal coolant temperatures. If this occurs, reduce speeduntil the coolant temperature returns to the normal range. Refer to Engine coolant temperature gauge...

• do not allow waves to break higher than 15 cm (6 inches) above thebottom edge of the rear bumper. Exceeding these limits may allow water to enter vehicle components: • causing internal damage to the components. • affecting driveability, emissions and reliability. Replace the rear axle lubricant an...

GETTING ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE To fully assist you should you have a vehicle concern, Ford MotorCompany offers a complimentary roadside assistance program. Thisprogram is separate from the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. The serviceis available: • 24–hours, seven days a week • for the New Vehicle Limited...

Canadian customers who require roadside assistance, call1–800–665–2006. If you need to arrange roadside assistance for yourself, Ford MotorCompany will reimburse a reasonable amount. To obtain reimbursementinformation, U.S. Ford or Mercury vehicles customers call1-800-241-3673; Lincoln vehicle custo...

The fuel pump shut-off switch islocated in the passenger’s foot well,by the kick panel. Use the following procedure to resetthe fuel pump shut-off switch. 1. Turn the ignition to the OFFposition. 2. Check the fuel system for leaks. 3. If no fuel leak is apparent, resetthe fuel pump shut-off switch b...

Standard fuse amperage rating and color COLOR Fuse rating Mini fuses Standard fuses Maxi fuses Cartridge maxi fuses Fuse link cartridge 2A Grey Grey — — — 3A Violet Violet — — — 4A Pink Pink — — — 5A Tan Tan — — — 7.5A Brown Brown — — — 10A Red Red — — — 15A Blue Blue — — — 20A Yellow Yellow Yellow ...

Passenger compartment fuse panel (top side) These relays are located on the reverse side of the passengercompartment fuse panel. See your dealer or a certified technician forservice of this relay box. Fuse/Relay Location Description Relay 1 Flasher Relay 2 Rear defrost Relay 3 Delayed accessory Rela...

Power distribution box The power distribution box islocated in the engine compartment.The power distribution box containshigh-current fuses that protect yourvehicle’s main electrical systemsfrom overloads. Always disconnect the battery before servicing high currentfuses. To reduce risk of electrical...

If your vehicle is equipped with a tire pressure monitoringsystem, refer to Tire Pressure Monitoring System (if equipped) in the Maintenance and specifications section for important information. If the tire pressure monitor sensor becomesdamaged, it will no longer function. Spare tire information Th...

Note: Passengers should not remain in the vehicle when the vehicle isbeing jacked. 4. Block the wheel that is diagonallyopposite of the flat tire using thewheel chock provided with yourvehicle. Location of the spare tire and tools The spare tire and tools for your vehicle are stowed in the following...

3. Remove the tools from theprovided bag. Rotate the wrench socket out fromthe handle. Removing the spare tire Do not use an impact wrench on the winch drive nut. This willdamage the spare tire winch. 1. Open the cover from the carpeting on cargo floor to expose the winchdrive nut. 2003 Explorer (ex...

2. Insert the lug wrench on thewinch drive nut. The wrench will stop moving andforward resistance to turning will befelt when properly engaged. 3. Turn the wrenchcounterclockwise until the tire islowered to the ground and the cablehas slack. When turning the wrench,make sure that it does not scuff t...

Do not attempt to change a tire on the side of the vehicle closeto moving traffic. Pull far enough off the road to avoid the danger of being hit when operating the jack or changing the wheel. 1. Use the tip of the lug wrench toremove the beauty cap by twistingthe tip under the cap. The carpetedfloor...

8. Remove the jack and fully tightenthe lug nuts in the order shown. Stowing the flat/spare tire Note: Failure to follow spare tire stowage instructions may result in failure of cable or loss of spare tire. 1. Lay the tire on the ground with the valve stem facing up, toward thevehicle. 2. Slide the ...

2. Replace beauty cap, stow the jack and tools in their respectivelocations, making sure they are fully secured so they do not rattle whenyou drive. JUMP STARTING YOUR VEHICLE The gases around the battery can explode if exposed to flames,sparks, or lit cigarettes. An explosion could result in injury...

Do not use fuel lines, engine rocker covers or the intake manifold as grounding points. Do not connect the end of the second cable to the negative (-)terminal of the battery to be jumped. A spark may cause an explosion of the gases that surround the battery. 4.0L Engine 2003 Explorer (exp) Owners Gu...

4.6L Engine 5. Ensure that the cables are clear of fan blades, belts, moving parts ofboth engines, or any fuel delivery system parts. Jump starting 1. Start the engine of the booster vehicle and run the engine atmoderately increased speed. 2. Start the engine of the disabled vehicle. 3. Once the dis...

WRECKER TOWING If you need to have your vehicle towed, contact a professional towingservice or, if you are a member of a roadside assistance program, yourroadside assistance service provider. It is recommended that your vehicle be towed with a wheel lift or flatbedequipment. Do not tow with a slingb...

GETTING THE SERVICES YOU NEED At home Ford Motor Company and Ford of Canada have authorized dealerships toservice your vehicle. It is preferred that you return to the Ford dealerwhere your vehicle was purchased when warranty repairs are needed.However, you may also take your vehicle to another Ford ...

In some states (in the U.S.) you must directly notify Ford in writingbefore pursuing remedies under your state’s warranty laws. Ford is alsoallowed a final repair attempt in some states. In the United States, a warranty dispute must be submitted to theDispute Settlement Board before taking action un...

THE DISPUTE SETTLEMENT BOARD (U.S. ONLY) The Dispute Settlement Board is: • an independent, third-party arbitration program for warranty disputes • available free to owners and lessees of qualifying Ford Motor Companyvehicles The Dispute Settlement Board may not be available in all states. FordMotor...

Board membership The Board consists of: • three consumer representatives • a Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealership representative Consumer candidates for Board membership are recruited and trained byan independent consulting firm. The dealership Board member is chosenfrom Ford and Lincoln Mercury deale...

Oral presentations If you would like to make an oral presentation, indicate YES to question6 on the application. While it is your right to make an oral presentationbefore the Board, this is not a requirement and the Board will decide thecase whether or not an oral presentation is made. An oral prese...

UTILIZING THE MEDIATION/ARBITRATION PROGRAM(CANADA ONLY) In those cases where you continue to feel that the efforts by Ford andthe dealer to resolve a factory-related vehicle service concern have beenunsatisfactory, Ford of Canada participates in an impartial third partymediation/arbitration program...

FORD MOTOR COMPANYWORLDWIDE DIRECT MARKET OPERATIONS1555 Fairlane DriveFairlane Business Park #3Allen Park, Michigan 48101U.S.A.Telephone: (313) 594-4857FAX: (313) 390-0804 If you are in another foreign country, contact the nearest Forddealership. If the dealership employees cannot help you, they ca...

WASHING THE EXTERIOR Wash your vehicle regularly with cool or lukewarm water and a neutralPh shampoo, such as Motorcraft Detail Wash (ZC-3–A), which is availablefrom your dealer. • Never use strong household detergents or soap, such as dish washingor laundry liquid. These products can discolor and s...

PAINT CHIPS Your dealer has touch-up paint and sprays to match your vehicle’s color.Take your color code (printed on a sticker in the driver’s door jam) toyour dealer to ensure you get the correct color. • Remove particles such as bird droppings, tree sap, insect deposits, tarspots, road salt and in...

• If tar or grease spots are present, use Motorcraft Bug and TarRemover (ZC-42). WINDOWS AND WIPER BLADES The windshield, rear window and wiper blades should be cleanedregularly. If the wiper does not wipe properly, substances on thewindshield, rear window or the wiper blades may be the cause. These...

INTERIOR For fabric, carpets, cloth seats and safety belts: • Remove dust and loose dirt with a vacuum cleaner. • Remove light stains and soil with Motorcraft Extra StrengthUpholstery Cleaner (ZC-41). • If grease or tar is present on the material, spot-clean the area firstwith Motorcraft Spot and St...

FORD, LINCOLN AND MERCURY CAR CARE PRODUCTS Your Ford, Lincoln or Mercury dealer has many quality products availableto clean your vehicle and protect its finishes. These quality productshave been specifically engineered to fulfill your automotive needs; theyare custom designed to complement the styl...

SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS • Use the Scheduled Maintenance Guide to track routine service. • Use only recommended fuels, lubricants, fluids and service partsconforming to specifications. • Your dealership can provide parts and service. PRECAUTIONS WHEN SERVICING YOUR VEHICLE • Do not work on a hot engi...

OPENING THE HOOD 1. Inside the vehicle, pull the hoodrelease handle located under thebottom left corner of the instrumentpanel. 2. Go to the front of the vehicle and release the auxiliary latch that islocated under the front center of the hood. 3. Lift the hood. 2003 Explorer (exp) Owners Guide (pos...

IDENTIFYING COMPONENTS IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT 4.0L SOHC V6 engine 1. Engine coolant reservoir 2. Engine oil filler cap 3. Engine oil dipstick 4. Brake fluid reservoir 5. Power distribution box 6. Battery 7. Power steering fluid reservoir 8. Air filter assembly 9. Windshield washer fluid reservoir...

WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID Add fluid to fill the reservoir if thelevel is low. In very cold weather, donot fill the reservoir completely. Only use a washer fluid that meets Ford specification WSB-M8B16–A2.Refer to Lubricant specifications in the Capacities and specifications chapter.State or local regu...

• 4.6L V8 engine 6. Wipe the indicator clean. Insert the indicator fully, then remove itagain. • If the oil level is between the MIN and MAX marks, the oil level is acceptable, DO NOT ADD OIL. • If the oil level is below the MIN mark, add enough oil to raise the levelwithin the MIN-MAX range. 2003 E...

• 4.0L SOHC V6 engine • 4.6L V8 engine • Oil levels above the MAX mark may cause engine damage. Some oilmust be removed from the engine by a service technician. 7. Put the indicator back in and ensure it is fully seated. Adding engine oil 1. Check the engine oil. For instructions, refer to Checking ...

3. Recheck the engine oil level. Make sure the oil level is not above theMAX hole on the engine oil level indicator (dipstick). 4. Install the indicator and ensure it is fully seated. 5. Fully install the engine oil filler cap by turning the filler cap clockwise1/4 of a turn or until three clicks ca...

BATTERY Your vehicle is equipped with aMotorcraft maintenance-free batterywhich normally does not requireadditional water during its life ofservice. However, for severe usage or in high temperature climates, check thebattery electrolyte level. Refer to the scheduled maintenance guide forthe service ...

When lifting a plastic-cased battery, excessive pressure on theend walls could cause acid to flow through the vent caps, resulting in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or battery.Lift the battery with a battery carrier or with your hands on oppositecorners. Keep batteries out of reach of ...

If the battery has been disconnected or a new battery has been installed,the clock and the preset radio stations must be reset once the battery isreconnected. • Always dispose of automotivebatteries in a responsible manner.Follow your local authorizedstandards for disposal. Call yourlocal authorized...

When the engine is cold, check thelevel of the engine coolant in thereservoir. • The engine coolant should be atthe “cold fill level” or within the“cold fill range” as listed on theengine coolant reservoir(depending upon application). • Refer to the ScheduledMaintenance Guide for serviceinterval sch...

Note: Use of Motorcraft Cooling System Stop Leak Pellets, VC-6, may darken the color of Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant fromyellow to golden tan. • Do not add/mix an orange-colored, extended life coolant suchas Motorcraft Speciality Orange Engine Coolant, VC-2 (US) orCXC-209 (Canada), meeting...

4. When you are sure that all the pressure has been released, use thecloth to turn it counterclockwise and remove the cap. 5. Fill the coolant reservoir slowly with the proper coolant mixture (seeabove), to within the “cold fill range” or the “cold full” level on thereservoir. If you removed the rad...

Refer to the chart on the coolant container to ensure the coolantconcentration in your vehicle will provide adequate freeze protection. Never increase the engine coolant concentration above 60% (protection to –60°F). At a level over 60%, your engine could overheatand become damaged.If you drive in e...

When fail-safe mode is activated You have limited engine power when in the fail-safe mode, so drive thevehicle with caution. The vehicle will not be able to maintain high speedoperation and the engine will run rough. Remember that the engine iscapable of completely shutting down automatically to pre...

Fuel ethanol and gasoline may contain benzene, which is acancer-causing agent. Observe the following guidelines when handling automotive fuel: • Extinguish all smoking materialsand any open flames beforefueling your vehicle. • Always turn off the vehicle beforefueling. • Automotive fuels can be harm...

powertrain damage, a loss of vehicle performance, and yourwarranty may be invalidated. Fuel quality Many of the world’s automakers approved the World-wide Fuel Charterthat recommends gasoline specifications to provide improvedperformance and emission control system protection for your vehicle.Gasoli...

• Have the vehicle loading and distribution the same every time. Your results will be most accurate if your filling method is consistent. Filling the tank for FFV equipped vehicles Your vehicle will operate on both unleaded gasoline with an octane ratingof 87, or E-85 fuel, or any mixture of these t...

• Driving on flat terrain offers improved fuel economy as compared todriving on hilly terrain. • Transmissions give their best fuel economy when operated in the topcruise gear and with steady pressure on the gas pedal. • Four-wheel-drive operation (if equipped) is less fuel efficient thantwo-wheel-d...

3. The fuel cap may not have been securely tightened. These temporary malfunctions can be corrected by filling the fuel tankwith good quality fuel and/or properly tightening the fuel cap. After threedriving cycles without these or any other temporary malfunctionspresent, the Check Engine/Service Eng...

• 4.0L SOHC V6 engine • 4.6L V8 engine 1. Start the engine and let it run until it reaches normal operatingtemperature (the engine coolant temperature gauge indicator will benear the center of the normal area between H and C). 2. While the engine idles, turn the steering wheel left and right several...

CHECKING AND ADDING TRANSFER CASE FLUID (IF EQUIPPED) 1. Clean the filler plug. 2. Remove the filler plug andinspect the fluid level. 3. Add only enough fluid throughthe filler opening so that the fluidlevel is at the bottom of theopening. Use only fluid that meets Ford specifications. Refer to Lubr...

The traction grade assigned to this tire is based onstraight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning or peak traction characteristics. Temperature A B C The temperature grades are A (the highest), B and C, representing thetire’s resistance to the gene...

Improperly inflated tires can affect vehicle handling and can failsuddenly, possibly resulting in loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover and/or personal injury. Tire rotation • Four tire rotation To make sure your tires wearevenly, rotate them as indicated inthe Scheduled Maintenance Guide . If y...

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules and with RS-210 ofIndustry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This devicemust accept any interference received, including interference that maycause undesired oper...

2 Indicates only approximate dry-fill capacity. Some applications may vary based on cooler size and if equipped with an in-tank cooler. The amountof transmission fluid and fluid level should be checked by a qualifiedtechnician. 3 Add the coolant type originally equipped in your vehicle. 4 All rear a...

Item Ford PartName orequivalent Ford PartNumber FordSpecification Driveshaft, slipspline, universaljoints Premium LongLife Grease XG-1-C orXG-1-K ESA-M1C75-B Engine coolant MotorcraftPremium GoldEngine Coolant(yellow-colored) VC-7–A WSS-M97B51-A1 4.0L Engine oil Motorcraft SAE5W30 SuperPremium Motor...

Vehicle identification number The vehicle identification number(VIN) is a 17 digit combination ofletters and numbers. The VIN isattached to a metal tag and islocated on the driver sideinstrument panel. The VIN numberis also found on the Certificationlabel. (Please note that in thegraphic XXXX is rep...

FORD ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR VEHICLE A wide selection of genuine Ford accessories are available for yourvehicle through your local authorized Ford or Ford of Canada dealer.These quality accessories have been specifically engineered to fulfill yourautomotive needs; they are custom designed to complement...

Protection and appearance equipment Air bag anti-theft locks All-weather floor mats B-pillar trim kit Cargo liners, interior Carpet floor mats Catch-All floor mats Door edge guards Front end covers (full and sport) Front hood deflectors Grille guard/brush guard Interior trim kit Locking gas cap Mold...

A Accessory delay ..........................53Air bag supplemental restraintsystem ........................116–117, 121 and child safety seats ............118description ......................117, 121disposal ....................................124driver air bag ..................119, 122indicator l...

Engine oil ..................................226 checking and adding ..............226dipstick ....................................226filter, specifications ........230, 259recommendations ...................230refill capacities ........................260specifications ..................262, 264 Ex...