1996
CONTINENTAL
Your satisfaction is our #1 goal. If you have
questions or concerns with your vehicle, we suggest
you follow these steps:
I . Contact your Sales Representative or Service
Advisor at your selling/servicing dealership.
2. If the inquiry or concern remains unresolved,
contact the Sales Manager or Service Manager
at the dealership.
3. If the inquiry or concern cannot be resolved at
the dealership level, please contact the Ford
Customer Assistance Center.
In the United States:
Ford Motor Company
Lincoln Customer Assistance Center
300 Renaissance Center
P.O. Box 43360
Detroit, MI 48243
1-800-521-4140
TDD for the hearing impaired: 1-800-232-5952
In Canada:
The Lincoln Centre
Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited
P.O. Box 1580, Station B
Mississauga, Ontario L4Y 4G3
1-800-387-9333
Outside the U.S. or Canada:
FORD MOTOR COMPANY EXPORT OPERATIONS
1555 Fairlane Drive
Fairlane Business Park #3
Allen Park, Michigan 481 01
Telephone (313) 594-4857
Fax (313) 390-0804
All rights reserved. Reproduction by any
means, electronic or mechanical, including
photocopying, recording, or by any
information storage and retrieval system or
translation in whole or part is not permitted
without written authorization from Ford
Motor Company.
Copyright @ 1995, Ford Motor Company
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTORY INFORMATION
SAFETY RESTRAINTS
STARTING YOUR CONTINENTAL
WARNING LIGHTS AND GAUGES
INSTRUMENT PANEL CONTROLS
STEERING COLUMN CONTROLS
FEATURES
ELECTRONIC SOUND SYSTEMS
1
9
41
51
69
89
99
159
i
DRIVING YOUR CONTINENTAL
ROADSIDE EMERGENCIES
CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE
ACCESSORIES
SERVICING YOUR CONTINENTAL
QUICK INDEX
INDEX
GAS STATION INFORMATION
179
199
213
223
231
299
307
322
iii
Introductory Information
Ford's Commitment to You
At Ford Motor Company, excellence is the
continuous commitment to achieve the best result
possible. It is dedication to learning what you want,
determination to develop the right concept, and
execution of that concept with care, precision, and
attention to detail. In short, excellence means being
the standard by which others are judged.
Our Guiding Principles
Quality comes first. For your satisfaction, the
quality of our products and services must be our
number one priority.
You are the focus of everything we do. Our
work must be done with you in mind, providing
better products and services than our
competition.
Continuous improvement is essential to our
success. We must strive for excellence in
everything we do: in our products - in their safety
and value - and in our services, our human relations,
our competitiveness, and our profitability.
Employee involvement is our way of life. We are
a team. We must treat one another with trust and
respect.
Dealers and suppliers are our partners. We must
maintain mutually beneficial relationships with
dealers, suppliers, and our other business
associates.
Integrity is never compromised. Our conduct
worldwide must be pursued in a manner that is
socially responsible and commands respect for its
integrity and for its positive contributions to
society
1
Things to Know About Using
This Guide
Congratulations on the purchase of your new
vehicle. This guide has information about the
equipment and the options for your new vehicle.
You may not have bought all of the options
available to you. If you do not know which
information applies to your vehicle, talk to your
dealer.
This guide describes equipment and gives
specifications for equipment that was in effect when
this guide was approved for printing. Ford may
discontinue models or change specifications or
design without any notice and without incurring
obligation.
2
NOTES and WARNINGS
NOTES give you additional information about the subject
matter you are referencing.
WARNINGS remind you to be especially careful in those
areas where carelessness can cause damage to your vehicle or
personal injury to yourself, your passengers or other people.
Please read all WARNINGS carefully.
/!\ WARNING
Finding Information in This Guide
After you have read this guide once, you will probably return
to it when you have a specific question or need additional
information. To help you find specific information quickly,
you can use the Quick Index or the Index.
The Quick Index at the end of the book provides a
page number following each item which indicates
where detailed information can be found.
To use the Index, turn to the back of the book and
search in the alphabetical listing for the word that
best describes the information you need. If the word
you chose is not listed, think of other related words
and look them up. We have designed the Index so
that you can find information under a technical
term.
Canadian Owners - French Version
French Owner Guides can be obtained from your
dealer or by writing to Ford Motor Company of
Canada, Limited, Service Publications, P.O. Box
1580, Station B, Mississauga, Ontario L4Y 4G3.
The Lincoln Commitment
The Lincoln Commitment is more than the prestige of owning
a superior luxury automobile, it is a comprehensive owner
benefits package that is designed to provide you with services
to support your every driving need.
The following is a brief explanation of the Lincoln
Commitment benefits. We encourage you to learn about
these benefits and take full advantage of them. Detailed
information on all of these benefits will be sent to you
approximately 25 days after you have taken delivery of your
vehicle.
Service Loaner
Should your Lincoln require overnight warranty service, your
dealership will provide you with a service loaner car, when
available, or a rental allowance of up to $30 a day for up to
five days.
3
Roadside Service Assistance
Lincoln owners receive complimentary 24-hour
emergency roadside service assistance for a period of
four years for towing, jump-starting, lock-out service,
gas delivery, a tire change or other roadside services.
Call the hotline at 1-800-521-4140 any time of day or
night for emergency roadside assistance.
Emergency Travel Expense
Reimbursement
Covers expenses such as meals, lodging and car
rental if your automobile is disabled more than 100
miles (160 km) from home.
Destination Assistance (U.S. only)
In the event of a collision or mechanical breakdown,
Lincoln helps get you to your immediate destination
with a reimbursement allowance for emergency
transportation service such as taxicabs, rental cars,
shuttles, etc.
4
Trip Planning Service
Plan your journeys with custom-computerized,
travel-related information including maps and trip
routings. To order customer-designed travel packets,
call 1-800-521-4140.
Membership in Quest International
(U.S. only)
You will automatically receive a complimentary
membership in Quest International which entities
you to travel-related discounts on meals and rooms
at more than 2,100 hotels in the United States,
Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.
The Lincoln Warranty
For specifics on what is covered, see your Warranty
Information Booklet.
Lincoln Customer Assistance Center
If you have questions regarding your Lincoln or the
Lincoln Commitment, call our Customer Assistance
Center:
United States 1-800-521-4140
Canada 1-800-387-9333
You may call the Customer Assistance Center,
Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in all time
zones.
Owner Identification Card
Personalized with your name and vehicle
identification number as well as the hotline number
to call for customer service or roadside assistance
service.
Your Maintenance Schedule and
Record Booklet
The Maintenance Schedule and Record booklet lists
the services that are most important for keeping
your vehicle in good condition. A record log is also
provided to help you keep track of all services
performed.
About the Warranties
Your vehicle is covered by three types of warranties:
Basic Vehicle Warranty, Extended Warranties
on certain parts, and Emissions Warranties.
Read your Warranty Information Booklet carefully to
find out about your vehicle's warranties and your
basic rights and responsibilities.
If you lose your Warranty Information Booklet, you
can get a new one free of charge. Contact any Ford
or Lincoln-Mercury dealer, or refer to the addresses
and phone numbers on the first page of this owner
guide.
5
Buying a Ford Extended Service Plan
If you bought your vehicle in the U.S., you can buy
a Ford Extended Service Plan for your vehicle. This
optional contract provides service protection for a
longer period of time than the basic warranty that
comes with your vehicle.
You do not have to buy this option when you buy
your vehicle. However, your option to purchase the
Ford Extended Service Plan runs out after 18
months or 18,000 miles. See your dealer for more
details about the Ford Extended Service Plan.
If you purchased a Canadian vehicle and did not
take advantage of the Ford Extended Service Plan at
the time of purchase, you may still be eligible. See
your dealer for the details.
6
Breaking Your Vehicle In
Your new vehicle goes through an adjustment or
break-in period during the first 1,000 miles
(1,600 km) that you drive it. During the break-in
period, you need to pay careful attention to how
you drive your vehicle.
Avoid sudden stops. Because your vehicle has
new brake linings, you should take these steps:
-Watch traffic carefully so that you can
anticipate when to stop.
-Begin braking well in advance.
-Apply the brakes gradually.
The break-in period for new brake linings lasts
for I 00 miles (I 60 km) of city driving or 1,000
miles (1,600 km) of highway driving.
Use only the type of engine oil that Ford
recommends. See Engine oil recommendations
in the Index. Do not use special "break-in" oils.
Cleaning the Outside of Your
Vehicle
Washing and Polishing Your Vehicle
Wash the outside of your vehicle, including the
underside, with a mild detergent.
DO NOT:
Wash your vehicle with hot water
Wash your vehicle while it sits in direct
sunlight
Wash your vehicle while the body is hot
Pollen, bird droppings a . nd tree sap can damage
the paint, especially in hot weather. Wash your
vehicle as often as necessary to keep it clean.
Take similar precautions if your vehicle is
exposed to chemical industrial fallout.
Paint damage resulting from fallout is not related
to a defect in paint materials or workmanship and
therefore is not covered by warranty. Ford,
however, believes that continual improvement in
customer satisfaction is a high priority. For this
reason, Ford has authorized its dealers to repair,
at no charge to the owner, the surfaces of new
vehicles damaged by environmental fallout within
12 months or 12,000 miles (20,000 km) of
purchase, whichever comes first. Customers may
be required to bring their vehicle in for inspection
by a Ford representative.
Polish your vehicle to remove harmful deposits
and protect the finish.
7
Cleaning Chrome and Aluminum Parts
Wash chrome and aluminum parts with a mild
detergent. Do not use steel wool, abrasive cleaners,
fuel, or strong detergents.
8
Cleaning Plastic Parts
Some of your vehicle's exterior trim parts are plastic. Clean
with a tar and road oil remover if necessary. Use a vinyl
cleaner for routine cleaning.
Do not clean plastic parts with thinners, solvents or
petroleum-based cleaners.
If you have your vehicle rustproofed, remove oversprayed
rustproofing with a tar and road oil remover. If rustproofing
is not removed from plastic and rubber parts, it can cause
deterioration.
Safety Restraints
Important Safety Belt Information
The use of safety belts helps to restrain you and
your passengers in case of a collision. In most
states and in Canada the law requires their use.
Safety belts provide best restraint when:
the seatback is upright
the occupant is sitting upright (not slouched)
the lap belt is snug and low on the hips
the shoulder belt is snug against the chest
the knees are straight forward
To help you remember to fasten your safety belt, a
warning light may come on and a chime may sound.
See Safety Belt Warning Light and Chime in the
Warning Lights and Gauges chapter.
See the following sections in this chapter for
directions on how to properly use these safety belts.
Also see Safety Restraints for Children in this
chapter for special instructions about using safety
belts for children.
/!\ WARNING
Make sure that you and your passengers wear
safety belts. Always drive and ride with your
seatback upright and the lap belt snug and low
across the hips.
9
/!\ WARNING
Never wear the shoulder belt under the
arm. Never swing it around the neck over
the inside shoulder. Never use a single belt
for more than one person or across more
than one seating position. Each seating
position in your vehicle has a specific safety
belt assembly which is made up of one
buckle and one tongue that are designed to
be used as a pair. Failure to follow these
precautions could increase the risk and/or
severity of injury in a collision.
/!\ WARNING
Never drive or ride with a twisted or
jammed safety belt. If you cannot untwist
or unjam the safety belt, see the nearest
qualified technician immediately.
10
/!\WARNING
To reduce the risk of serious injury in a
collision, children should always ride with
the seatback upright.
/!\WARNING
Never let a passenger hold a child on his or
her lap while the vehicle is moving. The
passenger cannot protect the child from
injury in a collision.
Lock the doors of your vehicle before driving to lessen
the risk of the door coming open in a collision.
Combination Lap and Shoulder
Belts
While your vehicle is in motion, the combination lap
and shoulder belt adjusts to your movement.
However, if you brake hard, corner hard or if your
vehicle receives an impact of 5 mph (8 km/h) or
more, the lap and shoulder belt locks and helps
reduce your forward movement.
After you get into your vehicle, close the door and
lock it. Then adjust the seat to the position that
suits you best.
Fastening the combination lap and shoulder
belt
NOTE: Be sure to read and understand Important
Safety Belt Information at the beginning of this
chapter.
To adjust the lap part of the belt, pull up on the
shoulder belt until the lap belt fits snugly and as
low as possible around your hips.
While the belt retracts, guide the tongue to its
original position to prevent it from striking you or
the vehicle.
11
Unfastening the lap/shoulder belts
12
Shoulder Belt Height Adjustment
Driver and right front passenger
You can adjust the shoulder belt height to one of
five (5) positions.
To adjust the belt down, push the release button
(see figures I and 2). To adjust the belt up, slide
the adjuster up. (You do not have to push the
release button.)
Make sure the adjuster is firmly in one of the five
positions. The belt should be adjusted up or down
until the belt rests on your shoulder near your
neck.
Figure I - The shoulder belt height adjuster Figure 2 - The shoulder belt height adjuster
13
/!\ WARNING
Position the shoulder belt height adjuster
so that the belt rests across the middle of
your shoulder. Be sure the shoulder belt
is properly positioned on your shoulder
each time you use the belt. If the
shoulder belt is off your shoulder, on your
upper arm or neck, there is a greater risk
of severe injury in a collision.
Right Front or Rear Seating Positions
Your vehicle is equipped with a dual locking
mode retractor on the shoulder belt portion of
the combination lap/shoulder safety belt for the
front seat passenger and rear seat passengers.
14
Dual locking mode refractors operate in two
ways:
Vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking mode
In this operating mode, the shoulder belt retractor
will allow the occupant freedom of movement,
locking tight only on hard braking, hard cornering
or impacts of approximately 5 mph (8 km/h) or
more. The retractor can also be made to lock by
pulling on the belt.
Automatic locking mode
In this operating mode, the shoulder belt retractor
will be automatically locked and will remain locked
when the combination lap/shoulder safety belt is
buckled, and does not allow the occupant freedom
of movement. This mode provides the following:
A tight lap/shoulder belt on the occupant.
Child seat installation restraint.
/!\ WARNING
Rear facing infant seats should never be
placed in the front seat.
This mode must be used when installing a child
seat on the front passenger seat and rear seats
where dual locking refractors are provided. To
switch the retractor from the emergency locking
mode to the automatic locking mode, perform
the following steps:
1. Buckle the lap/shoulder combination belt.
2. Grasp the shoulder portion of the belt and
pull downward until all of the belt is
extracted and a click is heard. At this time,
the retractor is in the automatic locking
mode (child restraint mode).
3. A clicking sound will contnue to be heard as
the belt is allowed to retract.
NOTE: When the combination
lap/shoulder belt is unbuckled and allowed to
retract completely, the retractor will switch to
the vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking mode.
See the detailed instructions under Safety Seats
for Children in this chapter.
Lap Belts
The lap belt in the center of the front seat does
not adjust automatically. You must adjust it to
fit snugly and as low as possible around your
hips. Do not wear it around your waist.
15
Unfastening the lap belts in the center front
seating position
NOTE: Be sure to read and understand
Important Safety Belt Information at the
beginning of this chapter.
Pull the belt across your hips and insert the
tongue into the correct buckle on your seat until
you hear a snap and feel it lock. Make sure the
buckle is securely fastened.
16
If you need to lengthen the belt, unfasten it and tip the
belt tongue at a right angle to the belt. Pull the belt
tongue over your lap until it reaches the buckle.
If you need to shorten the belt, pull on the loose end of
the webbing until the belt fits snugly.
To unfasten the belt, push the release button on the
buckle. This allows the tongue to unlatch from the
buckle.
Safety Belt Extension Assembly
For some people, the safety belt may be too short even
when it is extended. You can add about eight inches
(20 cm) to the belt length with a safety belt extension
assembly (part number 611 C22). Safety belt
extensions are available at no cost from your dealer.
on the label. Also, use the safety belt extension
only if the safety belt is too short for you when
fully extended. Do not use extension to change the
fit of the shoulder belt across the torso.
/!\ WARNING
Failure to follow these instructions will affect
the performance of the safety belts and
increase the risk of personal injury.
Safety Belt Maintenance
Check the safety belt systems periodically to make
sure that they work properly and are not damaged.
All safety belt assemblies, including refractors,
buckles, front seat belt buckle support assemblies
(slide bar) (if equipped), child safety seat tether
bracket assemblies (if equipped), and attaching
hardware, should be inspected after any collision.
Ford recommends that all safety belt assemblies used
in vehicles involved in a collision be replaced.
However, if the collision was minor and a qualified
technician finds that the belts do not show damage
and continue to operate properly, they do not need to
be replaced. Safety belt assemblies not in use during
a collision should also be inspected and replaced if
either damage or improper operation is noted.
Cleaning the Safety Belts
Clean the safety belts with any mild soap solution that
is recommended for cleaning upholstery or carpets.
Do not bleach or dye the belt webbing because this
may weaken it.
Air Bag Supplemental Restraint
System (SRS)
The driver and right front passenger air bags are
Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS), provided at
these seating positions in addition to the
lap/shoulder belt, and are designed to supplement the
protection provided to properly belted occupants
17
in moderate to severe frontal collisions. The
supplemental air bag system does not provide
restraint to the lower body.
/!\WARNING
The supplemental air bags are not designed
to protect occupants in the front center
seating position.
The Importance of Wearing Safety Belts
/!\WARNING
Safety belts must be worn by all vehicle
occupants to be properly restrained and
help reduce the risk of injury in a collision.
18
/!\ WARNING
All occupants of the vehicle, including the
driver, should always wear their safety
belts, even when an air bag Supplemental
Restraint System is provided.
There are four very important reasons to use
safety belts even with an air bag system. Use
your safety belts to:
help keep you in the proper position (away
from the air bag) when it inflates
reduce the risk of harm in rollover, side or
rear impact collisions, because an air bag is
not designed to inflate in such situations
reduce the risk of harm in frontal colflsions
that are not severe enough to activate the
supplemental air bag
reduce the risk of being thrown from your
vehicle
The Importance of Being Properly
Seated
In a collision, the air bag must inflate extremely
fast to help provide additional protection for
you. In order to do this, the air bag must inflate
with considerable force. If you are not seated in
a normal riding position with your back against
the seatback, the air bag may not protect you
properly and could possibly hurt you as it
inflates.
/!\ WARNING
If a passenger is not properly seated and
restrained, an inflating air bag could
cause serious injury.
In rear-facing infant seats, the infant's head is closer
to the air bag. The force of the rapidly inflating air
bag could push the top of the rear-facing seat
against the vehicle seatback or center armrests (if so
equipped), or center console (if so equipped).
Children weighing less than 40 lbs. (18 kg.) should
use child or infant seats. Forward facing child seats
must have the passenger seat moved as far back
from the instrument panel as possible.
Your vehicle is equipped with a right front
passenger air bag. Front passengers, especially
children and small adults, should never sit on the
edge of the seat, stand near the glove compartment
of the instrument panel, or lean over with their
faces near the glove compartment when the vehicle
is moving. All occupants should sit with their backs
against the seatback and use the safety belts.
19
/!\ WARNING
REAR-FACING INFANT SEATS
SHOULD NEVER BE USED IN THE
FRONT SEAT. REAR-FACING
INFANT SEATS MUST ALWAYS BE
PLACED IN THE REAR SEAT. Failure
to follow these instructions could result in
serious injury.
/!\ WARNING
Do not place objects or mount equipment
on or near the air bag cover on the
steering wheel or in front seat areas that
may come in contact with a deploying air
bag. Failure to follow this instruction
may increase the risk of personal injury in
the event of a collision.
20
For further information about the proper mounting
of equipment in the front seat of this vehicle, please
refer to Ford's brochure entitled Some Important
Information About Air Bag Supplemental Restraint
System which can be obtained by calling Helm Inc.
at 1-800-782-4356. Ask for brochure FPS-8602.
For additional important safety information on the
proper use of seat belts, child seats, and infant seats,
please read the other sections of this part of the
Owner Guide, especially sections entitled Safety
Belts for Children and Safety Seats for Children.
How the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint
System Operates
The Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System
consists of the Driver and Passenger air bags,
impact sensors, a system diagnostic module, a
readiness light and tone, and the electrical wiring
which connects the components.
The driver air bag is in the center of the steering
wheel and is indicated by the letters SRS. The right
front passenger seat air bag is in the upper right-
hand section of the instrument panel ledge above
the glove compartment. The letters SRS appear
there. Both air bags are designed to stay out of
sight until they are activated.
The location of air bags and warning labels
21
If a collision occurs, the sensors sense the
severity of the impact and activates the air bags
if necessary. The air bag system is designed to
deploy in frontal and front-angled collisions
more severe than hitting a parked vehicle (of
similar size and weight) head-on at about 28
mph (45 km/h). Because the system senses the
crash severity rather than vehicle speed, some
frontal collisions at speeds above 28 mph (45
km/h) will not inflate the air bag.
22
When the sensors activate the system, the air bags
inflate rapidly, filling with non-toxic nitrogen gas in
a fraction of a second. Immediately after inflation,
the air bags deflate by releasing the nitrogen gas
through vent holes. The whole process takes place
in a matter of seconds.
/!\ WARNING
Air bag system components get hot after
inflation. Do not touch them after inflation.
Inflated driver side air bag Inflated Passenger side air bag
23
/!\ WARNING
If the air bag is inflated, THE AIR BAG
WILL NOT FUNCTION AGAIN AND
MUST BE REPLACED IMMEDIATELY.
If the air bag is not replaced, the
unrepaired area will increase the risk of
injury in a collision.
To ensure that the air bag system will operate as
intended in a crash, the system is equipped with a
diagnostic module, which controls a readiness lamp
and a warning tone. The diagnostic module
monitors its own circuits, the air bag electrical
system, the air bag readiness light, the air bag
power, and the air bag inflators.
The air bag system uses a readiness light on the
instrument cluster and a tone to indicate the
condition of the system. When you turn the ignition
key to the ON position, this light will illuminate for
approximately six (6) seconds and then turn off.
24
This indicates that the system is operating
normally. NOTE: Maintenance of the air bag
system is not required.
AIR
BAG
A problem with the system is indicated by one
or more of the following:
the readiness light will either flash or stay lit,
or it will not light immediately after ignition is
turned on,
or a group of five beeps will be heard. The
tone pattern will repeat periodically until the
problem and light are repaired.
If any of these things happen, have the air bag
system serviced at your Ford or Lincoln-
Mercury dealer immediately. Unless serviced,
the air bag supplemental restraint system may
not function properly in the event of a collision.
/!\ WARNING
Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify
the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System
or its fuses. See your Ford or Lincoln-
Mercury dealer.
Disposal of air bags or air bag equipped
vehicles
For disposal of air bags or air bag equipped
vehicles, see your local Ford or Lincoln-Mercury
dealer. Air bags MUST be disposed of by qualified
personnel.
Safety Restraints for Children
In the U.S. and Canada, you are required by
law to use safety restraints for children. If
small children ride in your vehicle - this
generally includes children who are four years
old or younger and who weigh 40 pounds (18
kg) or less - you must put them in safety seats
that are made specially for children. Safety
belts alone do not provide maximum protection
for these children. Check your local and state
laws for specific requirements.
/!\ WARNING
Never let a passenger hold a child on his or
her lap while the vehicle is moving. The
passenger cannot protect the child from
injury in a collision.
25
/!\ WARNING
Passengers should not be allowed to ride in
the cargo area. Persons not riding in a seat
with a fastened seat belt are much more likely
to suffer serious injury in a collision. Cargo
should always be secured to prevent it from
shifting and causing damage to the vehicle or
harm to passengers.
When possible, put children in the rear seat, of
your vehicle. Accident statistics suggest that
children are safer when properly restrained in the
rear seating positions than in the front seating
positions.
26
/!\ WARNING
Carefully follow all of the manufacturer's
instructions included with the safety seat you
put in your vehicle. if you do not install and use
the safety seat properly, the child may be
injured in a sudden stop or collision.
/!\ WARNING
Safety belts and seats can become hot in a
vehicle that has been closed up in sunny
weather; they could bum a small child. Check
seat covers and buckles before you place a child
anywhere near them.
/!\ WARNING
Never leave a child unattended in your vehicle.
Safety Seats for Children
Use a safety seat that is recommended for the size
and weight of the child. Always follow the safety
seat manufacturer's instructions when installing
and using the safety seat.
Ford recommends the use of a child safety seat
having a top tether strap. Install the child safety
seat in a seating position which is capable of
providing a tether anchorage. For more
information on top tether straps see Attaching
Safety Seats With Tether Straps in this chapter.
When installing a child safety seat, be sure to use
the correct safety belt buckle for that seating
position, and make sure the tongue is securely
fastened in the buckle.
/!\WARNING
REAR-FACING INFANT SEATS
SHOULD NEVER BE USED IN THE
FRONT SEAT. REAR-FACING INFANT
SEATS MUST ALWAYS BE PLACED IN
THE REAR SEAT. Failure to follow these
instructions could result in serious injury.
When using forward-facing child seats in
the front seat, always move the passenger
seat as far back from the instrument panel
as possible. Failure to follow these
warnings could result in injury to the
child.
All child restraint systems are designed to be
secured in vehicle seats by lap belts or by the lap
portion of a lap-shoulder belt.
27
/!\WARNING
If you do not properly secure the safety
seat, the child occupying the seat may be
injured during a collision or sudden stop.
An unsecured safety seat could also injure
other passengers.
/!\WARNING
Carefully follow all of the manufacturer's
instructions included with the safety seat
you put in your vehicle. If you do not
install and use the safety seat properly, the
child may be injured in a sudden stop or
collision.
28
/!\WARNING
Always keep the buckle release button
pointing upward and away from the child
seat, with the tongue between the child seat
and the release button as shown in the
following illustration.
Safety belt buckle placement for child seats
Installing Safety Seats in the Front and
Rear Seating Positions
Your vehicle is equipped with a dual locking mode
retractor on the shoulder belt portion of the
combination lap/shoulder safety belt for the front
seat passenger and rear passengers.
If you choose to install a child safety seat in the
front seating position, move vehicle seat as far
back as possible.
For seating positions equipped with a dual-locking
mode retractor, use the following procedure:
1. Position the child seat in center of passenger
seat.
2. Pull down on shoulder belt, then grasp
shoulder belt and lap belt together. Figure 1.
29
30
3. While holding the shoulder and lap belt
portions together, route the tongue through the
child seat according to the child seat
manufacturer's instructions. See Figure 2. Be
sure that the belt webbing is not twisted.
Routing the lap/shoulder belt
4. Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle
for that seating position until you hear and feel
the latch engage. See Figure 3. Make sure
tongue is latched securely to buckle by pulling
on tongue.
31
Buckling the belt
32
5. Grasp the shoulder portion of the belt and pull
downward until all of the belt is extracted and a
click is heard. At this time, the retractor is in
the automatic locking mode (child restraint
mode). See Figure 4.
NOTE: The dual locking mode retractor
must be in the automatic locking mode to properly
restrain a child seat.
Setting the retractor to automatic locking
mode
6. Allow the belt to retract. A clicking sound will
be heard as the belt retracts. This indicates the
retractor is in the automatic locking mode.
Pull on the lap belt portion across the child seat
towards the buckle and continue to pull up on
the shoulder belt portion while pushing down
on the child seat allowing the shoulder belt to
retract to remove any slack in the seat belt.
See Figures 5 and 6.
33
34
7. Before placing the child in the child seat,
forcibly tilt the seat from side to side and in
forward directions to make sure that the seat is
securely held in place. See Figure 7.
Checking that the seat is secure
35
8. Double check that the retractor is in the
automatic locking mode. Try to pull more belt
out of the retractor. If you cannot, the belt is in
the automatic locking mode. See Figure 8.
36
Checking the retractor
9. Check to make sure that the child seat is
properly secured prior to each use. If the
retractor is not locked, repeat steps 6 through
8.
NOTE: To remove the retractor from
automatic lock mode, allow seat belt to retract fully
to its stowed position and the retractor will
automatically switch back to the vehicle sensitive
locking mode for normal adult usage.
Installing a Child Safety, Seat at the
Front Center Seating Position with
Adjustable Lap Belt-
1. Lengthen the lap belt. To lengthen the belt,
hold the tongue so that its bottom is
perpendicular to the direction of webbing
while sliding the tongue up the webbing.
2. Place the child safety seat in the center seating
position.
3. Route the tongue and webbing through the
child seat according to the child seat
manufacturer's instructions.
4. Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle
for the center seating position until you hear
a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the
tongue is m securely fastened to the buckle
by pulling on tongue.
5. Push down on the child seat while pulling on
the loose end of the lap belt webbing to
tighten the belt.
6. Before placing the child into the child seat,
forcibly tilt the child seat from side-to-side
and in forward directions to ensure that the
seat is held securely in place. If the child seat
moves excessively, repeat steps 5 through 6,
or properly install the child seat in a different
seating position.
37
/!\WARNING
Carefully follow all of the manufacturer's
instructions included with the safety seat you
put in your vehicle. If you do not install and
use the safety seat properly, the child may be
injured in a sudden stop or collision.
Attaching Safety Seats With Tether Straps
Some manufacturers make safety seats that include
a tether strap that goes over the back of the vehicle
seat and attaches to an anchoring point. Other
manufacturers offer the tether strap as an
accessory. Contact the manufacturer of your child
safety seat for information about ordering a tether
strap.
Tether anchorage hardware
All vehicles include a tether anchor installed at the
rear center seating position for use with child safety
seats. Attachment holes (at each rear outboard
38
seating position) have been provided in your
vehicle to attach anchor hardware, if required.
Additional kits can be obtained at no charge from
any Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer.
Safety Belts for Children
Children who are too large for child safety seats
should always wear safety belts. (See instructions
with your child seat, or contact its manufacturer,
to determine maximum size of child that will
safely fit in the seat.)
/!\ WARNING
If safety belts are not properly worn and
adjusted as described, the risk of serious
injury to the child in a collision will be
much greater.
If the shoulder belt portion of the lap/shoulder belt
can be positioned so that it does not cross or rest in
front of the child's face or neck, the child should
wear the lap/shoulder belt. Moving the child closer
to the seat belt buckle may help provide a good
shoulder belt fit.
To improve the fit of lap and shoulder belts on
children who have outgrown child safety seats,
Ford recommends use of a belt-positioning booster
seat that is labelled as conforming to all Federal
motor vehicle safety standards. Belt-positioning
booster seats raise the child and provide a shorter,
firmer seating cushion that encourages safer seating
posture and better fit of lap and shoulder belts on
the child. A belt-positioning booster should be
used if the shoulder belt rests in front of the child's
face or neck, or if the lap belt does not fit snugly on
both thighs, or if the thighs are too short to let the
child sit all the way back on the seat cushion when
the lower legs hang over the edge of the seat
cushion. You may wish to discuss the specific
needs of your child with your pediatrician.
/!\ WARNING
Do not use a belt-positioning booster with
a lap-only belt.
Lap belts and the lap belt portion of lap and
shoulder belts should always be worn snugly and
below the hips, touching the child's thighs.
/!\ WARNING
To reduce the risk of serious injury in
collision, children should always ride with
the seatback upright.
39
Starting Your Continental
Ignition
Understanding the Positions of the
Ignition
The positions of the key in the ignition
ACCESSORY allows some of your vehicle's
electrical accessories such as the radio and the
windshield wipers to operate while the engine is not
running.
NOTE:Your vehicle is also equipped with an
accessory timer. This allows some of your
accessories to remain on for up to I 0 minutes after
the ignition is turned to the OFF position. The
accessory timer is cancelled if any door is opened, the
dimmer switch is used, or the ignition is turned to the
ON position.
The automatic transaxle gearshift must be in P (Park)
to move the key to the LOCK position.
LOCK locks the steering wheel. It also locks the
gearshift lever.
LOCK is the only position that-allows you to remove
the key. The LOCK feature helps to protect your
vehicle from theft.
41
OFF allows you to shut off the engine and all
accessories without locking the steering wheel, or the
gearshift lever.
ON allows You to test your vehicle's warning lights
(except the brake system warning light) to make sure
they work before you start the engine. The key returns
to the ON position once the engine is started and
remains in this position while the
engine runs.
START cranks the engine. Release the key once the
engine starts so that you do not damage the starter. The
key should return to ON when You release it. The
START position also allows You to test the Brake
Warning Light.
42
Removing the Key From the Ignition
1. Put the gearshift in P (Park)-
2. Set the parking brake fully.
3. Turn the ignition key to LOCK.
4. Remove the key.
If the key is stuck in the LOCK position, move the
steering wheel left or right until the key turns freely.
If the driver's door is open while the key is still in the
ignition, a warning chime sounds.
/!\ WARNING
Always set the parking brake fully and
make sure that the gearshift is securely
latched in P (Park).
/!\ WARNING
Do not leave children, unreliable adults,
or pets alone in your vehicle. They could
accidentally injure themselves or others
through inadvertent operation of the
vehicle. Further, on hot, sunny days,
temperatures in a closed vehicle could
quickly become high enough to cause
severe and possibly fatal injuries to people
as well as animals.
Fuel-Injected Engines
When starting a fuel-injected engine, the most
important thing to remember is to avoid pressing
down on the accelerator before or during starting.
Only use the accelerator when you have problems
getting your vehicle started. See Starting Your Engine
in this chapter for details about when to use the
accelerator while you start your vehicle.
Staring Your Vehicle
Preparing to Start Your Vehicle
/!\WARNING
Do not start your vehicle in a closed garage or
other enclosed area. Never sit in a stopped
vehicle for more than a short period of time
with the engine running. Exhaust fumes are
toxic. See Guarding Against Exhaust Fumes
in this chapter for more instructions.
Before you start your vehicle, do the following:
1. Make sure you and all your passengers buckle
your safety belts. See Safety Restraints in the
Index for more details.
2. Make sure the headlamps and other accessories
are turned off when starting.
43
3. Make sure that the gearshift is in P (Park) and the
parking brake is set before you turn the key.
Before you start your vehicle, you should test the
warning lights on the instrument panel to make sure that
they work. Refer to the Warning Lights and Gauges
chapter.
Starting Your Engine
To start your engine:
1. Follow the steps under Preparing to Start Your
Vehicle at the beginning of this section.
2. Turn the ignition key to the ON position.
3. DO NOT depress the accelerator pedal when
starting your engine. DO NOT use the accelerator
while the vehicle is parked.
44
4. Turn the key to the START position (cranking)
until the engine starts. Allow the key to return to
the ON position after the engine has started.
If you have difficulty in turning the key, rotate the
steering wheel slightly because it may be binding.
For a cold engine:
At temperatures 10°°F (-12°°C) and below: If the
engine does not start in fifteen (15) seconds on the
first try, turn the key to OFF, wait approximately
ten (10) seconds so you do not flood the engine,
then try again.
At temperatures above 10°°F (-12°°C): If the
engine does not start in five (5) seconds on the
first try, turn the key to OFF, wait approximately
ten (10) seconds so you do not flood the engine,
then try again.
For a warm engine:
Do not hold the key in the START position for more
than five (5) seconds at a time. If the engine does
not start within five (5) seconds on the first try, turn
the key to the OFF position. Wait a few seconds
after the starter stops, then try again.
Whenever you start your vehicle, release the key as soon
as the engine starts. Excessive cranking could damage
the starter or flood the engine.
After you start the engine, let it idle for a few seconds.
Keep your foot on the brake pedal and put the
gearshift lever in gear. Release the parking brake.
Slowly release the brake pedal and drive away in the
normal manner.
NOTE:Your vehicle is equipped with an automatic
transaxle that has an interlock that prevents you from
shifting out of P (Park) unless your foot is on the brake
pedal.
If the engine does not start after two
attempts:
1. Turn the ignition key to the OFF position
2. Press the accelerator all the way to the floor
and hold it.
3. Turn the ignition key to the START position,
4. Release the ignition key when the engine
starts
5. Release the accelerator gradually as the
engine speeds up. Then drive away in the
normal manner.
If the engine still does not start, the fuel pump
shut-off may have been triggered. For directions
on how to reset the switch see Fuel Pump Shut-
Off Switch later in this chapter.
45
A computer system controls the engine's idle speed.
When you start your vehicle, the engine's idle speed
normally runs higher than when it is warmed up. These
faster engine speeds will make your vehicle move
slightly faster than its normal idle speed. It should,
however, slow down after a short time. If it does not,
have the idle speed checked.
If the engine idle speed does not slow down
automatically, do not allow your vehicle to idle for more
than 10 minutes. Have the vehicle checked.
/!\ WARNING
Extended idling at high engine speeds can produce
very high temperatures in the engine and exhaust
system, creating the risk of fire or other damage.
46
/!\ WARNING
Do not park, idle, or drive your vehicle in dry
grass or other dry ground cover. The
emission system heats up the engine
compartment and exhaust system, which can
start a fire.
Engine Block Heater (If equipped)
Engine block heaters are strongly recommended if
you live in a region where temperatures reach -10°°F
(-23°°C) or below. An engine block heater warms
the engine coolant, which improves starting, warms
up the engine faster, and allows the heater-defrost
system to respond quickly.
To turn the heater on, simply plug it into a
grounded 110-volt outlet. Ford recommends that
you use a 110-volt circuit that is protected by a
ground fault circuit interrupter.
/!\ WARNING
To prevent electrical shock, do not use your
heater with ungrounded electrical systems
or two-pronged (cheater) adapters.
For best results, plug the heater in at least three
hours before you start your vehicle. Using the
heater for longer than three hours will not damage
the engine, so you can plug it in at night to start
your vehicle the following morning.
If the Engine Cranks but Does
Not Start After a Collision
Fuel Pump Shut-off Switch
If the engine cranks but does not start or does
not start after a collision, the fuel pump shut-off
switch may have been triggered. The shut-off
switch is a device intended to stop the fuel pump
when your vehicle has been involved in a
substantial jolt.
Once the shut-off switch is triggered, you must
reset the switch by hand before you can start
your vehicle. The switch is on the left side of the
trunk.
47
The left side of the trunk
/!\ WARNING
If you see or smell fuel, do not reset the
switch or try to start your vehicle. Have
all the passengers get out of the vehicle
and call the local fire department or a
towing service.
48
If your engine cranks but does not start after a
collision or substantial jolt:
1 . Turn the ignition key to the OFF position.
2. Check under the vehicle for leaking fuel.
3. if you do not see or smell fuel, push the red
reset button down. If the button is already
set, you may have a different mechanical
problem.
4. Turn the ignition key to the ON position for
a few seconds, then turn it to the OFF
position.
5. Check under the vehicle again for leaking
fuel. If you see or smell fuel, do not start
your vehicle again. If you do not see or
smell fuel, you can try to start your vehicle
again.
6. Check all vehicle warning lights before
driving the vehicle.
Pushing
Vehicles with automatic transaxles cannot be
started by pushing. Follow the directions under If
Your Vehicle Needs a Jump-Start in the Roadside
Emergencies Chapter.
Guarding Against Exhaust Fumes
Carbon monoxide, although colorless and odorless,
is present in exhaust fumes. Take precautions to
avoid its dangerous effects.
/!\WARNING
Do not start your vehicle in a closed garage
or other enclosed area. Never sit in a
stopped vehicle for more than a short
period of time with the engine running.
Exhaust fumes are toxic. See Guarding
Against Exhaust Fumes in this chapter for
more instructions.
/!\WARNING
If you smell exhaust fumes inside your
vehicle, have your dealer inspect your
vehicle immediately. Do not drive if you
smell exhaust fumes.
49
Have the exhaust and body ventilation systems
checked whenever:
your vehicle is raised for service
the sound of the exhaust system changes
your vehicle has been damaged in a collision
Improve your ventilation by keeping all air inlet
vents clear of snow, leaves, and other debris.
50
If the engine is idling while you are stopped in an
open area for long periods of time, open the
windows at least one inch (2 . 5 cm). Also,
adjust the heating or air conditioning to bring in
outside air.
If you use the Electronic Automatic Climate
Control, set the fan speed selector dial to a
medium or high blower speed with the VENT or
PNL-FLR function buttons pressed.
Warning Lights and Gauges
Instrument cluster
51
The following warning lights and gauges are on
the instrument cluster. AD of the warning
lights and gauges alert you to possible
problems with your vehicle.
Indicator Lights and Chimes
Safety Belt Warning Light and Chime
This warning light and chime remind you to
fasten your safety belt. The following
conditions will take place:
If the safety belt is not buckled when the
ignition is turned to the ON position, the
chime will turn on for four (4) to eight (8)
seconds and the light will come on for one
to two minutes.
If the safety belt is buckled while the light is
on and the chime is sounding, both the light
and chime will turn off.
52
If the safety belt is buckled before the
ignition is turned to the ON position,
neither the light nor the chime will come
on.
Brake System Waming Light
The warning light for the brakes can show two
things - that the parking brake is not fully
released, or that the brake fluid level is low in
the master cylinder reservoir. If the fluid level
is low, the brake system should be checked by
your dealer or a qualified service technician.
This light comes on when the parking brake is
set, or if it is not set, it comes on briefly when
you turn the ignition to the START position. It
normally goes off shortly after the engine starts
and you release the parking brake. If the light
stays on after you have fully released the
parking brake, have the hydraulic brake system
serviced by your dealer or a qualified service
technician.
/!\WARNING
The BRAKE light indicates that the brakes
may not be working properly. Have the
brakes checked immediately.
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light
This light comes on for a few seconds when you
turn the ignition key to the START position. It
should go off shortly after the engine starts. If it
stays on longer than five (5) seconds, it indicates
that your anti-lock brake system may not be
working properly. Normal braking is not affected
unless the BRAKE system warning light also
remains on for longer than six (6) seconds. You
should have your vehicle serviced immediately by
your dealer or qualified service technician to restore
the benefits of the anti-lock feature. See Anti-lock
brakes in the Index for more information.
53
Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light
This light indicates the engine's oil pressure, not
the oil level. However, if your engine's oil level
is low, it could affect the oil pressure. The
light will come on briefly when you turn your
key to the START and ON position. The light
should stay off when the engine is running with
normal oil pressure. If the light comes on while
the engine is running, you have lost oil pressure
and continued operation will cause severe
engine damage.
54
If you lose engine oil pressure:
1. Pull off the road as soon as safely possible.
2. Shut off the engine immediately or severe engine
damage could result.
3. Check the engine's oil level, following the
instructions on checking and adding engine oil,
see the Engine Oil in the Index. If you do not
follow these instructions, you or others could be
injured. To assure an accurate reading, your car
should be on level ground.
4. If the level is low, add only as much oil as
necessary before you start the engine again. Do
not overfill. Do not operate the engine if the light
is on, regardless of the oil level. Contact your
nearest dealer for further service actions.
For more information about adding oil, see Adding
engine oil in the Servicing Your Vehicle chapter.
Traction Control Active Light (If
equipped)
This light comes on when the Traction
Contron system begins applying and releasing
the brakes and adjusting the engine
characteristics to limit a wheelspin condition.
It will be lit for a minimum of six seconds or
for the duration of the Traction Control
event.
T/C
ACTIVE
Charging System Light
This light indicates that your battery is not being
charged and that you need to have the electrical
system begins applying and releasing the brakes
and system checked.
55
This light comes on every time you turn the
ignition to the ON or START position (engine
offl. The light should go off when the engine
starts and the alternator begins to charge.
If the light stays on or comes on when the
engine is running, have the electrical system
checked as soon as possible.
Turn Signal Indicator Lights
When you push the turn signal lever up before
making a right turn, the right side arrow on the
instrument panel flashes.
When you push the turn signal lever down
before making a left turn, the left side arrow on
the instrument panel flashes.
Usually, the turn signals turn off automatically
after you turn your car. If the turn signal
continues to flash after you have made the turn,
push the lever back to the OFF position.
56
If one or both of your turn indicators do not flash
or stay on continuously, have them serviced as
soon as possible. In the meantime, be sure to use
the accepted hand signals.
Service Engine Soon Warning Light
The Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic 11
(OBD 11) system consists of the hardware
and software necessary to monitor the
operation of the powertrain. The OBD 11
system is designed to check the function
of the vehicle's powertrain control system
during normal operation. If an emission
problem is detected, the Service Engine
Soon light (in the cluster) is turned on.
Modification or additions to the vehicle may
cause incorrect operation of the OBD 11
system. Additions such as burglar alarms,
cellular phones, and CB radios must be
carefully installed. Do not install these
devices by tapping into or running wires close
to powertrain control system wires or
components.
SERVICE
ENGINE
SOON
The light comes on briefly when you turn the ignition
to the ON position, but should turn off when the
engine starts. If the light does not come on when you
turn the ignition to the ON position or if it comes on
and stays on when you are driving, have your vehicle
serviced as soon as conveniently possible.
This indicates a possible problem with one of the
vehicle's emission control systems. You do not
need to have your vehicle towed in.
If the light turns on and off at one second intervals
while you are driving the vehicle, it means that the
engine is misfiring. If this condition persists,
damage could occur to the engine or catalytic
convertor. Have your vehicle serviced at the first
opportunity.
If the light turns on and off on rare occasions
while you are driving, it means that a malfunction
occurred and the condition corrected itself.
An example of a condition which corrects itself
occurs when an engine running out of fuel begins
to misfire. In this case, the Service Engine Soon
Light may turn on and will then set a diagnostic
trouble code indicating that the engine was
misfiring while the last of the fuel was being
consumed. After refueling, the Service Engine
Soon Light wfll turn off after the vehicle has
completed three consecutive warm up cycles
without a misfire
57
condition occurring. A warm up cycle consists
of engine start from a cold condition (engine at
ambient temperature) and running until the
engine reaches normal operating temperature.
On the fourth engine start up, the Service
Engine Soon light will turn off as soon as the
engine begins to crank. It is not necessary to
have the engine serviced.
Under certain conditions, the Service Engine
Soon Light may come on if the fuel cap is not
properly installed. If the Service Engine Soon
Light comes on and you suspect that the fuel
cap is not properly installed, pull off the road as
soon as it is safely possible and turn off the
engine. Remove and replace the cap, making
sure it is properly seated.
After completing the three consecutive warm
up cycles and on the fourth engine start up, the
Service Engine Soon Warning Light should
turn off. If the light does not go off after the
fourth engine re-start, have your vehicle
serviced by your dealer or a qualified
technician.
58
High Beam Light
This light comes on when the headlamps are turned
to high beam or when you flash the lights.
Chime for Headlamps On
This chime sounds if the driver or any passenger
door is open when the parking lamps or headlamps
are on. The chime sounds until you close the door,
turn off the lamps or turn the ignition to the ON
position.
Air Bag Readiness Light
The air bag system uses a readiness light and
a tone to indicate the condition of the system.
The readiness light is in the instrument
cluster. When you turn the ignition key to the
ON position, this light will light up for six (6)
seconds and then turn off. This indicates that
the system is operating normally. NOTE:
Regularly scheduled maintenance of the air
bag system is not required.
AIR
BAG
If the light fails to Ruminate, continues to
flash, remains on, or you hear a beeping
sound, have the system serviced at your Ford
or Lincoln-Mercury dealer immediately.
Anti-Theft Alarm Light
(If equipped)
This light flashes on and off when the ignition is
turned to the OFF position and any door is
opened. As soon as you lock the doors, the light
glows steadily. Within 30 seconds of closing all
the doors, the light goes out. This indicates that
the alarm system is armed.
ANTI-
THEFT
See Anti-Theft System in the Features chapter for
more information.
59
The Instrument Cluster
In addition to warning lights, the instrument
cluster has a message center/odometer, a
speedometer, tachometer, fuel and coolant
temperature gauges.
The Electronic Message Center (M/C)
The Electronic Message Center only works
when the ignition is in the ON position.
Each time the WC is powered the display goes
through a self test by displaying the PLEASE
FASTEN SEATBELT message. This self test
is used to stabilize the systems before reporting
the status to you.
60
The message center tells you about the
condition of your vehicle by two methods:
operator selectable features
continuous warning reporting of
monitored systems
You can select different features for the M/C to
display by using the message center control
buttons located to the right of the instrument
cluster. You will hear a tone when you press one
of these buttons. However, if the M/C detects a
warning from any of the monitored systems, then
the M/C will display the appropriate warning
message.
Operator Selectable Features
Cluster Control Buttons and Message Center
Control Buttons
These features are controlled by the message
center control buttons located to the right of the
instrument cluster.
System Check
Pressing the SYSTEM CHECK button causes
the M/C to cycle through a status of each of the
systems being monitored. For each of the
monitored systems, the M/C will indicate either
an OK message or a warning message for three
seconds. The sequence of the system check
report is as follows:
Washer Fluid Level
Ride Control
Oil Level
Engine Coolant Level
Voltage Level
Engine Temperature
61
Doors Closed Trunk Closed
Trunk Closed
Exterior Lamps
Distance to Empty
Fuel Level
Traction Control (if equipped)
System Warnings
System warnings alert you to possible
problems or malfunctions in your vehicle's
operating systems. There are up to 18 warning
messages which can be displayed by the M/C
to show the status of the monitored systems.
The M/C will display the last selected feature if
there are no more warning messages. This
allows you to use the full functionality of the
M/C after you acknowledge the warning by
pressing the RESET button and clearing the
warning message.
62
WARNING ACT10N
Door Ajar
Driver's Door Ajar
Check Engine Temp
Check Charging System
Low Fuel Level Warning returns after 10 minutes
Low Engine Coolant
Low Oil Level
Low Tire Pressure
(if equipped)
Headlamp Out
Brake Lamp Out
Check Traction Control
(if equipped)
Check Ride Control
Trunk Ajar Warning reappears after key is turned
Check Steering Assist from OFF to ON
Low Washer Fluid
Air Leveling Disabled
Tail lamp Out
Front Turn Lamp Out
Warning messages that have been reset are
divided into two categories. They will
reappear on the display ten minutes from the
reset or they will not reappear until an ignition
OFF-ON cycle has been completed. This
reappearing of warning messages is a reminder
that these warning conditions still exist within
the vehicle.
EIM
A press of this button allows you to change the
M/C and the Electronic Climate control unit
from English to Metric Units. When you press
this button all displays change from English to
Metric or Metric to English units. The
displays remain in the units you have chosen
until you change them again even after you
turn off the vehicle and start it again.
TRIP
Pressing this button will display the first of two
trip odometers. Pressing it again will display
the second Trip Odometer. Pressing RESET
will clear only that Trip odometer which is
displayed.
DTE/ECON
Pressing this button a first time will display
approximately how many miles you can drive before
you run out of fuel, or in other words the Distance
To Empty (DTE). To ensure accuracy, turn the
ignition OFF when you fill the tank.
Pressing this button a second time will allow you to
display your Average Fuel Economy in miles/gallon
or Uters/100 kilometers. Your WC computes this
figure using the distance traveled and rate of fuel
used information. If you want to reset this feature,
press the RESET button while the Average Fuel
Economy feature is displayed.
NOTE: DTE (Distance to Empty) is calculated
using a "Running Average Fuel Economy" initialized
by the factory. This value is not the same as the
Average Fuel Economy Display. The Running
Average Economy is based on more than 500 miles
(800 km) of driving history. Also the factory default
for Running Average Economy is reinitialized if the
battery is disconnected.
63
If the FUEL LEVEL ERROR message is
displayed this means that there is a problem
with the fuel indication system and you should
contact your dealer for service as soon as
possible.
RESET
A press of the RESET button will allow you to
reset the current feature displayed. Warnings,
Average Fuel Economy, and Trip odometers
are the only features which respond to the
RESET button. Distance to Empty (DTE),
RIDE/STEER and MENU are unaffected by
pressing the RESET switch.
DISPLAY
Pressing this button will cause the message
center display to turn off. Pressing it again will
cause the display to come on again. Warnings
override an off display and must be reset in
order for the display to be off again.
64
RIDE/STEER
Pressing this button once will allow you to
adjust your RIDE CONTROL settings, between
NORMAL, PLUSH and FIRM. The settings are
changed by pressing the SELECT button while
RIDE CONTROL is displayed.
Pressing the RIDE/STEER button a second time
will allow you to adjust the STEERING
EFFORT settings between NORMAL, LOW,
and HIGH. The settings are changed by
pressing the SELECT button while STEERING
EFFORT is displayed.
NOTE: The combination of FIRM RIDE
CONTROL and LOW STEERING EFFORT is
undesirable and cannot be selected.
MENU
Pressing this button will allow You to change
various convenience settings throughout the
vehicle. The settings for each feature are
changed by pressing the SELECT button-
Pressing the MENU button once will allow you
to enable or disable the EXPRESS WINDOW
feature. This feature allows one tap down
operation on the driver's window using the
window switch on the driver's door armrest.
Pressing MENU again will allow you to enable
or disable the AUTO DOOR LOCK feature.
This feature automatically locks all doors when
the driver shifts out of PARK, all doors are
closed, the driver's seat is occupied, and the
vehicle is traveling over three mph (5 km/h).
Pressing MENU again will allow you to
enable or disable the HORN CHIRP feature.
When HORN CHIRP is ON the horn will
briefly sound when the Remote Entry Key
Fob LOCK button is pressed. This verifies
the doors have been locked and the ANTI-
THEFT system has been armed (if equipped).
Pressing MENU again will allow you to
enable or disable the SEAT ACCESS feature.
When ON, the driver's seat will move back 2
inches (5 cm) or to
end of seat track travel when the vehicle is
turned off and the ignition key is removed.
Upon the driver entering the vehicle and
closing the door, the seat will move
forward to its previous position.
Pressing MENU again will allow you to enable or
disable the REVERSE MIRRORS feature. When
ON, the outside rearview mirrors tilt down when
the gearshift is placed in R (Reverse). This
provides for an improved view of the side of the
vehicle and curb area when backing up. When
you shift out of REVERSE the mirrors return to
their previous positions.
Odometer
The odometer tells you the total number of miles
(kilometers) your vehicle has been driven.
If the odometer displays the word Error, please
contact your dealer for service.
65
Speedometer
The speedometer tells you how many miles
(kilometers) per hour your vehicle is moving.
Tachometer
The tachometer displays the approximate
engine revolutions per minute (rpm), or how
fast the engine is running.
You can drive your vehicle at most rpm points
on the tachometer but you must stay out of the
red zone.
If you drive with the tachometer in the red
zone, you may damage the engine.
Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge
This gauge indicates the temperature of the
engine coolant, not the coolant level. If the
coolant is not at its proper level or mixture, the
gauge indication will not be accurate.
66
The pointer moves from the C (cold) mark into the
NORMAL band as the engine coolant warms up. It
is acceptable for the pointer to fluctuate within the
NORMAL band under normal driving conditions.
Under certain driving conditions such as, heavy stop
and go traffic, or driving up hills in hot weather, the
pointer may indicate at the top of the NORMAL
band.
If, under any circumstances, the pointer moves above
the NORMAL band, the engine coolant is
overheating and continued operation may cause
engine damage.
If your engine coolant overheats:
1. Pull off the road as soon as it is safely possible.
2. Turn off the engine.
3. Let the engine cool. DO NOT REMOVE
COOLANT SYSTEM FILL CAP UNTIL
THE ENGINE IS COOL.
4. Check the coolant level following the
instructions on checking and adding coolant
to your engine, see the Engine Coolant in
the Index. If you do not follow these
instructions, you or others could be injured.
If the coolant continues to overheat, have the
coolant system serviced as soon as possible.
Fuel Gauge
The fuel gauge displays approximately how
much fuel you have in the fuel tank. The
ignition switch must be in the OFF position
while filling the tank with at least three gallons
(I I liters) for the fuel gauge to indicate the
new level. If the ignition is left ON or less than
3 gallons (I 1 liters) of fuel are added the fuel
gauge will not immediately indicate the new
fuel level. The gauge will gradually correct
itself to indicate the true fuel level.
Overhead Console Warnings
If your Continental is equipped with the Pressure
Alert System, a warning will appear in the overhead
console when the pressure in one of your vehicle's
tires drops below acceptable levels or if the system
has malfunctioned.
LOW TIRE
PRESSURE
See Securities in the Features chapter for more
information.
67
Lincoln RESCU System
(If equipped)
Lincoln RESCU runs a self-test when you start
your vehicle. During this test, the Lincoln RESCU
warning light, located in the overhead console, will
briefly illuminate. If a problem is detected during
the self-check, the light will remain lit and the
message "RESCU FAILURE" will be displayed on
the vehicle's message center for several seconds.
If the warning light fails to briefly illuminate
when you start your vehicle or if it remains
lit, have your Lincoln RESCU System
checked by an authorized Lincoln/Mercury
dealer as soon as possible. Your system may
be inoperative.
68
Instrument Panel Controls
The instrument panel (dashboard) on your
vehicle is divided into several different
sections. The illustrations on the following
pages show the major parts of the
instrument panel that are described in this
chapter. Some items shown may not be on
all vehicles.
The main controls for the climate control system,
clock, and radio are on the instrument panel.
If you have radio transmitting equipment in your
vehicle, be aware that it can interfere with your
vehicle's electrical system and may cause the
instrumentation and/or convenience products to
have temporary, abnormal operation.
NOTE: Any cleaner or polish that increases the
gloss (shine) of the upper part of the instrument
panel should be avoided. The dull finish in this
area is to help protect the driver from undesirable
windshield reflection.
Clean the instrument panel lens and woodtone trim
with a soft cloth and a glass cleaner. Do not use
paper towel or any abrasive cleaner to clean either
the lens or the woodtone trim as these may cause
scratches.
69
Light
Instrument panel
70
Cluster H
ood release handle
Rear window def roster/heated
The Climate Control System
Electronic Automatic Temperature
Control System
The control for your Electronic Automatic
Temperature Control (EATC) is located at
the center of the instrument panel and
operates only when the key is in the ON
position.
The EATC feature maintains the temperature
you select and automatically controls the
airflow for your comfort. It also allows you
to override the automatic operation with
manual override buttons.
The automatic temperature control system
71
To turn your EATC on, push the AUTOMATIC
button or any of the six override buttons along
the bottom of the control.
To turn your EATC off, press the OFF button.
When the system is off, the display window will
be blank (dark) except when OUTSIDE TEMP
has been selected. Then, OUTSIDE TEMP and
the temperature will appear in the window.
If you select AUTOMATIC, the system will
automatically determine fan speed and airflow
location. If an override button is selected, your
selection determines airflow location only. Fan
speed remains automatic unless you override it
by rotating the vertical thumbwheel located at
the extreme right of the control panel.
To change the temperature in the display
window, select any temperature between 65°F (I
8°C) and 85°F (29°C) using the BLUE (cooler)
or RED (warmer) buttons. The Electronic
Automatic Temperature Control will do the rest.
72
If you want continuous maximum cooling, push the
BLUE button until 60°F (16°C) is shown in the
display window. Your EATC will cool at
maximum and disregard the 60°F (16°C) setting
until you select a warmer temperature with the
RED button. If you want continuous maximum
heating, push the RED button until 90°F (32°C) is
shown in the display window. Your EATC wifl
provide maximum heat regardless of the 90°F
(32°C) setting until you select a cooler temperature
with the BLUE button.
The display window tells you how the system is
operating. It will indicate the selected temperature
and the operating function you have chosen; AUTO
or one of the six manual overrides. It will also
indicate manual (thumbwheel) control of the fan
speed with the symbol. The display window
with all possible displays and their positions are
shown here. Normally not aU are shown at the
same time but are included here to familiarize you
with the names and symbols.
The display window The AUTO temperature display
Automatic operation
Push the AUTOMATIC button and select the
desired temperature. The selected temperature
and AUTO will be shown in the display window.
The EATC will automatically heat or cool to
achieve the set temperature. Under normal
conditions, your EATC will need no additional
attention.
When in AUTOMATIC and weather
conditions require heat, air will be sent to
the floor. But, a feature is included in
your EATC to prevent blowing cold air
to the floor if the engine coolant is not
warm enough to allow heating. In 3-1/2
minutes or less, the fan speed will start to
increase and the airflow will change to
the floor area.
73
If unusual conditions exist (i.e., window fogging,
etc.), the six manual override buttons allow
YOU to select special air discharge locations. A
thumbwheel allows you to adjust the fan speed
to suit your needs.
Temperature selection
The RED and BLUE buttons at the upper left of
the Control are for temperature selection. The
RED Button will increase the set temperature
and the BLUE Button will lower the set
temperature. Pressing a button and releasing it
will change the set temperature one degree.
Holding either button in will rapidly change the
temperature setting in one degree increments to
either 65°F (18°C) (BLUE) or 85°F (29°C)
(RED). Then, the set temperature will jump 5°
and stop at either 60*F (I 6°C) which is
maximum cooling or 90°F (32°C) which is
maximum heating. VVhen you select 60°F
(16°C) or 90°F (32°C), the fan will go to HI
speed for maximum air flow.
74
The average temperature range used is
between 68°F (20°C) and 78°F (26°C).
Changing the temperature setting by several
degrees outside this range or overriding to
60°F (16°C) or 90°F (32°C) will not speed
up the heating or cooling process.
Fan speed and thumbwheel
Your EATC automatically adjusts the fan speed
to the existing conditions. You must push
AUTOMATIC for automatic fan speed
operation. To control the fan speed yourself,
use the thumbwheel which will cancel the
automatic fan speed control. The thumbwheel is
located at the extreme right side of the EATC
control panel. It is a vertical control marked
with a fan symbol. Rotate up for HI and down
for LO speeds.
Fan thumbwheel
When you move the thumbwheel, the fan
speed will go to manual control. The display
window will show the symbol in the lower
right corner along with the selected
temperature and operating function.
75
You can override the fan speed at any time. If
you use the thumbwheel to override the fan
speed, the EATC will continue to control the
temperature but you control the fan speed. To
return to auto fan control, press the
AUTOMATIC button. If you are operating in
one of the override functions (FLOOR, MAX
A/C, etc.), automatic fan control will continue
unless you rotate the fan thumbwheel. To
76
return to automatic fan control, press the
AUTOMATIC button. The EATC will return
to Automatic operation. If you want to
return to any override function, press the
button for that function. The fan speed will
continue to be automatically controlled.
Manual override buttons
Your EATC has six buttons which allow you
to make special selections. The buttons are
located along the bottom edge of the EATC
control and allow you to determine where the
air will be discharged. Pressing any override
button changes the air discharge location
only. It does not affect the ability of the
system to control temperature or the fan
speed. Return to fully Automatic operation
by pushing the AUTOMATIC button.
MAX A/C button
The MAX A/C feature allows for faster cooling
because air is drawn from inside the vehicle.
Using inside air causes the fan to sound louder
which is normal for this selection. The Display
window will change to indicate 60°F (16°C) and
MAX A/C. The fan will run at high speed and
the airflow will be from the instrument panel
registers. To exit and return to the previous
temperature, push AUTOMATIC or any of the
other five override buttons.
VENT button
Push this button to select outside air through the
instrument panel registers. The display window
will show the set temperature and VENT to the
lower right of the temperature. Your EATC will
heat the air if the temperature you have selected
is warmer than the outside air coming into the
vehicle. However, the air will NOT be cooled
regardless of the temperature setting.
PNL & FLR button
Push this button to get air from the floor and
instrument panel registers at the same time.
The display will show the set temperature and
the words PNL and FLR. Depending on the
selected temperature, the air will be
automatically heated or cooled.
FLOOR button
Airflow will be to the floor when the FLOOR
button is pressed. The display window will
show the set temperature and FLR to the left of
the temperature. The air cannot be cooled in
the FLOOR position, only heated. Fan speed
will be automatic unless manually controlled. If
you override the fan speed and wish to return to
automatic fan control, push AUTOMATIC.
Then, again select FLOOR for airflow to the
floor.
77
FLR & DEF button
Push this button to get air to the floor and
windshield defrosters at the same time. The
display will show the set temperature, FLR and
the Defrost symbol. If the outside temperature
is about 50°F (10°C) and above, the air will be
dehumidified to remove moisture. This will help
to prevent fogging in humid weather.
DEFROST button
Press the Defrost Button to obtain maximum
airflow to the windshield. Adjust the
temperature setting as required for defrosting.
The Display window will show the temperature
setting with the Defrost symbol to the left of the
temperature. When the outside temperature is
about 50°F (10°C) and above, the air will be
dehumidified to remove moisture. This will help
prevent fogging in humid weather.
78
OUTSIDE TEMP button
By pressing this button the temperature
of the air outside of the vehicle will show
in the display. The outside temperature
will continue to be displayed until the
OUTSIDE TEMP button is pressed
again to cancel. If the selected
temperature setting is changed while the
outside temperature is displayed, the new
selected temperature will be displayed for
4 seconds after it is changed. Then, the
outside temperature will return to the
window. If a manual override is pressed
or the thumbwheel is rotated while the
outside temperature is displayed, the
window will show the change for 4
seconds. Then, the outside temperature
will return along with the changed
override selection.
If the EATC is turned OFF while the outside
temperature is displayed, the temperature will
continue to be displayed. Press the OUTSIDE
TEMP button to clear the display window.
When the ignition key is turned OFF the display
will be blank (dark).
NOTE: The outside temperature
reading is most accurate when the
vehicle is moving. Higher readings may
be obtained when the vehicle is not
moving. The readings that you get may
not agree with temperatures given on the
radio due to differences in vehicle and
station locations.
Operating tips
The following tips will help you to get the most
satisfaction from your Electronic Automatic
Temperature Control system.
In humid weather, select DEF before starting
your engine. This will help to prevent
windshield fogging. After a few minutes of
operation, switch to AUTOMATIC or an
override selection of your choice.
To prevent humidity buildup inside your
vehicle, always drive with the EATC System
turned on.
79
Do not put objects under the front seats that
interfere with the flow of air to the back seat
area.
Remove any snow, ice, or leaves from the air
intake area of your EATC System which
could block the air intake. The intake area is
located at the bottom of the windshield, under
the hood at the passenger side rear corner.
Service
If your EATC is not operating as described here,
take it to your dealer to have it checked. System
diagnostics are built in which will allow your
dealer to readily identify problems that might
occur.
80
Rear Window Defroster and
Heated Sideview Mirrors
The rear window and heated outside mirrors
defroster switch activates the defroster for the
rear window to clear frost, fog, or thin ice from
both the inside and outside of the rear window
and activates the heated outside rearview
mirrors.
The button for the rear window and heated
outside mirrors defroster is on the instrument
panel to the right of the steering column.
The button that controls the rear window
defroster and heated outside rearview mirrors
Clear away any snow that is on the rear window
and outside rearview mirrors before using the
defroster. With the engine running, push the
defroster button.
After approximately 10 minutes, the defroster
will turn off. If the window or mirrors are still
not clear, turn the defroster on again.
The defroster will turn off when the ignition key is
turned to the OFF or START position.
The heating elements are bonded to the inside of
the rear window. Do not use sharp objects to
scrape the inside of the rear window or use
abrasive cleaners to clean it. Doing so could
damage the heating elements.
The Interior and Exterior Lights
Daytime Running Light System
(Canadian vehicles only)
The Daytime Running Light (DRL) system turns
the high beam headlamps on, with a reduced light
output, when:
The headlamp system is in the OFF position,
and
The vehicle is running, and
The vehicle has a fully released parking brake.
81
The high beam indicator light on the instrument
cluster will not be on.
NOTE: If you have a vehicle with an
automatic lighting system, the DRL system is
active until the automatic system turns on the
headlamps.
NOTE: You may notice that the lights
flicker when the vehicle is turned on or off. This
is a normal condition.
/!\WARNING
The Daytime Running Light (DRL)
system will not illuminate the tail
lamps and parking lamps. Turn on
your headlamps at dusk. Failure to do
so may result in a collision.
Turning On the Exterior Lights
To turn on the headlamps, parking lamps, side
markers, and tail lamps, use the rotary switch
that is to the left of the steering wheel.
82
The knob for the exterior lights
To turn on the parking lamps, tail lamps,
and license plate lamps, turn the knob
clockwise to the first position.
For more information about how the high
beams work, refer to the Steering Column
Controls chapter.
Cleaning the Exterior Lamps
Do not use dry paper towel, chemical solvents or
abrasive cleaners to clean the lamps, as these
may cause scratches or crack the lamps.
Setting the Autolamp On/Off Delay System
By using the autolamp, you can set the
headlamps to:
turn on the lamps automatically at night
turn off the lamps automatically during
daylight
keep the lamps on for up to three minutes
after you turn the key to OFF.
Autolamp switch
The autolamp sitch on the left side of
the instrument panel
To use the autolamp:
1. Make sure the headlamp knob is in
the OFF position. If the knob for the
headlamps is ON, you cancel the
autolamp.
83
If the autolamp is active, the headlamp system
will come on immediately after starting your
vehicle. If your vehicle is running before you
activate the autolamp, there may be a 15 second
delay before the headlights illuminate.
2. Turn the ignition key to ON or start your
vehicle.
3. Find the autolamp switch to the left of the
steering wheel on the instrument panel.
4. Push the autolamp switch up toward the
MAX position. As you press this switch, the
autolamp system's status will be displayed in
the message center. The system can be
turned OFF or can be set to provide light for
up to three (3) minutes after you turn your
vehicle off.
84
Do not put any articles on top of the photocell
that is located in the top left corner of the
instrument panel. This photocell controls the
autolamp. If you cover it, the photocell reacts
as if it is nighttime, and the lamps turn on.
To turn the autolamp off, push the switch down
until the message center display reaches OFF.
Turning On Interior
Lights/Instrument Panel Illumination
You can brighten or dim the lights in the
instrument panel and the compass display
in the inside rearview mirror (if
equipped) with the PANEL DIM switch
located on the instrument panel.
Panel dim switch
The switch that controls interior lamps and
instrument panel brightness
To turn on the interior lights, hold the Panel Dim
switch up until the interior lights turn on. To
turn off the interior lights, push the Panel Dim
switch down. The interior lights also come on
when any door is opened or if either front door
outside handle is lifted with the door locked.
Turning On the Map Lamps
Your vehicle has a map lamp for the passenger and
one for the driver.
TTThe map lamps on vehicles equipped with a
moon roof
85
Map lamp Dome lamp ON/OFF Switches
The map lamps on the inside roof of the car
To turn on the map lamps, push the switches in
front of each lamp.
On vehicles equipped with the moon roof
Option, the map lamps and switches are located
on the inside rearview mirror.
86
Rear Courtesy/Reading Lamps
Your vehicle has two rear passenger
courtesy/reading lamps.
The courtesy lamp lights when any door is
opened or when the instrument panel
dimmer switch is turned to the courtesy
lamp position or if either front door outside
handle is lifted with the door locked.
With the ignition key in the ACC or ON
position, the reading lamp can be turned on
by using the rocker switch on the lamp
assembly.
Rear passenger courtesy/reading lamp
Cleaning the Interior Lamps
Your interior dome lamps and map lamps are
plastic and should be cleaned with a mild
detergent diluted in water. Rinse them with
clear water.
Clock
The digital clock
1. To set the hour, press and hold
the hour button. When the desired
hour appears, release the button.
2. To set the minutes, press and hold
the minute button. When the desired
minute appears, release the button.
87
Cellular Phone (If equipped)
For information about the cellular phone in your
vehicle, refer to the Cellular Phone User's
Manual provided with your phone. For further
questions about your Lincoln cellular phone,
contact the Ford Cellular System at 1-800-367-
3013(U.S.). In Canada, please contact your
dealer.
NOTE: It is recommended that you fold your
cellular phone antenna down onto the back glass
before entering a car wash.
88
Steering Column Controls
The controls on the steering column and wheel
are designed to give you easy access to the
controls while you are driving.
The Turn Signal Lever
You can use the turn signal lever on the left side
of the steering column to:
operate the turn signals and cornering lamps
turn the high beams on/off
flash the lights
turn the windshield wipers and washer on/off
The turn signal lever
Turn Signals
Move the lever up to signal a right turn. Move it
down to signal a left turn. The corresponding
indicator light in the instrument cluster will flash.
89
If the turn signal stays on after you turn, move
the lever back to the center (off) position. A
warning chime will sound after approximately
one-half mile (one kilometer) of driving if you do
not return the lever to off.
For lane changes, move the lever far enough to
signal but not to latch. The lever will return to
the off position when you release it.
NOTE: The flash rate of the turn signal will
speed up considerably if the Lighting Control
Module detects a left or right turn lamp bulb
(front or rear) is burned out.
High Beams
To turn on the high beams, turn the headlamp
control switch to the headlamp ON position (or
activate the autolamp feature) and push the turn
signal lever away from you until it latches. When
the high beams are ON, the high beam indicator
light on the instrument cluster comes on.
90
To turn off the high beams, pull the lever toward
you until it latches. The high beam indicator
light turns off.
Flashing the Lights
To flash the headlamps, pull the lever toward
you for a moment and then release it. The
headlamps will flash whether the headlamp knob
is in the on or off position.
Windshield Wipers and Washer
To turn on the windshield wipers, the ignition
key must be turned to the ON or ACC position.
Rotate the knob towards "S" to activate the
wipers. The first seven detents are interval wipe
positions, the eighth detent is the LO position
and the ninth detent is the HI position.
To turn the wipers off, turn the knob to the OFF
position.
Variable Interval Wipers
In addition to two speed wipers, your vehicle has
wipers that you can set to operate at varying
intervals. For example, you can set the interval
so they wipe less often when it drizzles or more
often in heavier rain.
The windshield wiper on the turn signal lever
To set the interval wipers, turn the -knob at the
end of the turn signal lever between "S" (slow) and
"F" (fast) until the desired interval between wipes
is achieved.
Windshield Washer
To clean the windshield, push in the end of the
wiper knob. For a constant spray, keep the knob
pushed in. After you release the knob, the wipers
operate for two to three cycles before turning off
(if the wipers were OFF) or returning to HI, LO,
or the interval setting selected.
If the washer does not work, check the washer
fluid level and fill it if it is low. See the Servicing
Your Continental chapter. If there is enough fluid,
consult your nearest Ford or Lincoln-Mercury
dealer.
91
Do not try to clean the windshield when the
washer fluid container is empty or activate the
washers at any time for more than 15 seconds
continuously. This could damage the washer
pump system.
/!\ WARNING
In freezing weather, the washer solution
may freeze on the windshield and obscure
your vision. Always warm up the
windshield with the defroster before you
use the washer fluid. If you cannot see
through the windshield clearly, it can
increase the risk of being involved in a
collision.
For information about refilling the washer fluid or
replacing your windshield wiper blades, see
Windshield washer fluid and Wipers in the Index.
92
Hazard Flasher
The hazard flasher serves as a warning to other
drivers to be careful when approaching or passing
your vehicle.
The flashers work whether your vehicle is running
or not. The flashers work for up to two hours
when the battery is fully charged and in good
condition without draining the battery excessively.
If the flashers run for longer than two hours or if
the battery is not fully charged, the battery can be
drained.
Steering wheel
The control switch for hazard flashers
Horn
To sound the horn, push the center pad area of
the steering wheel.
Press here to sound the horn
The horn on the steering wheel
93
Tilt Steering
/!\ WARNING
Never adjust the steering wheel when the
vehicle is moving.
94
The lever to tilt the steering wheel
To change the position of the steering wheel, pull
the release lever on the column toward you. Tip
the steering wheel to the desired position.
Release the lever to lock the steering wheel in
place.
Speed Control
Your vehicle has speed control, so you can
automatically maintain a constant speed above 30
mph (48 km/h). The switches to operate the
speed control are on the steering wheel.
Use of radio transmitting equipment that is not
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or
in Canada the Canadian Radio and
Telecommunications Commission (CRTC)
approved may cause the speed control to
malfunction. Therefore, use only properly
installed FCC (CRTC in Canada) approved radio
transmitting equipment in your vehicle.
NOTE: Since your vehicle has an Automatic
Overdrive Transaxle, you may want to drive in D
(Drive) when driving in hilly terrain, at higher
altitudes, or when pulling a trailer. This will
improve speed control performance.
NOTE: Do not shift to N (Neutral) when using
the speed control. This will cause the engine to
overspeed.
95
The speed control switches on the steering
wheel
To set the speed control:
1. Press and release the ON switch.
2. Accelerate to the desired speed above 30 mph
(50 km/h) using the accelerator pedal.
96
3. Press the SET ACCEL switch and release it
immediately to set your speed. If you keep this
switch pressed, your speed will continue to
increase.
4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.
Your vehicle will maintain the speed you set.
If you drive up or down a steep hill, your vehicle
may momentarily slow down or speed up, even
though the speed control is on. This is normal.
When driving uphill, especially with a heavy load,
significant speed drops may occur. If the speed
drops more than 8-14 mph (13-23 km/h) the
automatic speed control will, by design, be
cancelled. If this happens, your vehicle may
require manual operation to maintain your desired
speed.
NOTE: If your speed increases above your set
speed while driving in (Overdrive) on a
downhill grade, you may want to shift to D
(Drive) to reduce vehicle speed. The speed
control cannot reduce the vehicle speed if it goes
above your set speed on a downhill grade. For
the best fuel economy during normal driving
conditions, leave the shift select in
(Overdrive), or resume as soon as practical.
/!\ WARNING
Do not use the speed control in heavy
traffic or on roads that are winding,
slippery, or unpaved.
Accelerating With the Speed Control
Operating
You can use the accelerator pedal to speed up
momentarily. When you take your foot off the
accelerator, the vehicle will return to the set
speed.
Resetting the Speed Control
To reset the speed control to a lower speed, use
one of the following procedures:
COAST - Press and hold the COAST switch.
Release the switch when the vehicle slows down
to the desired speed.
Lightly tap the brake pedal. When the vehicle
attains the desired speed, press the SET
ACCEL switch and release it immediately.
TAP-DOWN - Press and release the COAST
switch momentarily for each m.p.h. (1.6 km/h)
reduction in speed desired.
If vehicle speed is reduced below 30 mph (50
km/h) by any of the above methods, then you must
manually accelerate to a speed over 30 mph (50
km/h) and reset the system.
97
To reset the speed control to a higher speed,
follow one of these procedures:
ACCEL - Press and hold the SET ACCEL
switch. Release the switch when the vehicle
has accelerated to the desired speed.
Depress the accelerator pedal. When the
vehicle attains the desired speed, press the
SET ACCEL switch and release it
immediately.
TAP-UP - Press and release the SET ACCEL
switch momentarily for each m.p.h. (1.6 km/h)
increase in speed desired.
To Cancel Speed Control
Speed control can be cancelled at any time by
pressing the brake pedal slightly. After
cancelling, you can return to the speed you set by
pressing the RES switch, or set a new speed by
pressing the SET ACCEL or COAST switches.
98
To Turn Speed Control Off
Press the OFF switch.
Speed control is also turned OFF each time the
vehicle ignition is shut off.
Cancelling and Resuming a Set Speed
If you press the brake pedal, speed control is
suspended. You can return to the set speed by
pressing the RES switch, as long as you did not
press the OFF switch. You must be driving at least
30 mph (48 km/h).
Your vehicle will gradually return to the previously
set speed and then maintain it.
Features
Your vehicle has a variety of features designed for
your comfort, convenience and safety. Read this
chapter to find out about standard and optional
features.
Doors
Childproof Locks for the Rear Doors
In addition to power locks, your vehicle has
childproof locks for the rear doors. If you set these
locks, the rear doors cannot be opened from the
inside of the vehicle. The doors can still be opened
from the outside when the lock knobs are raised.
Lock
The childproof locks for the rear doors
99
To set the childproof lock on each rear door, open
the rear door.
Find the lever at the black label with the word
LOCKED in white letters. Move the lever up.
To release the childproof lock, open the rear door
from the outside.
Move the lever down.
Using the Power Door Locks
Your vehicle has power door locks. The controls
to lock the doors are on the trim panel of the front
door. When you close the doors after you set the
door locks, the doors remain locked. If the power
mechanism ever fails, the manual door lock will
override the power controls.
100
The power locks on the driver's door
Smart Locks
The Smart Locks feature helps prevent you from
locking the keys in your vehicle. With the key in
the ignition (in any switch position) and either
the driver's or passenger's door open, the doors
cannot be locked using the front door lock
switches.
NOTE: Your vehicle can still be locked, while
the key is in the ignition, by manually pressing
down the lock button or with remote/keyless
entry.
Illuminated Entry System with Theater
Lighting
The interior lights will illuminate for approximately
25 seconds when either front door handle is lifted,
any button on the keyless entry pad is pressed, or
the remote entry system UNLOCK button is
pushed. If the amount of light outside your vehicle
is below a predetermined level, the exterior lights
will also illuminate.
Using the Keyless Entry System
You can lock or unlock the vehicle doors and open
the trunk without using a key. The buttons for the
system are below the outside door handle on the
driver's side. See also Remote Entry System which
follows this description.
The keyless entry buttons
When you bought your vehicle, you were given a
computer code that operates the system for your
vehicle. For your convenience, we have
duplicated this code in three places.
The code is:
on your owner's wallet card found in the glove
compartment
101
taped to the trunk lid's right hinge support bar
taped to the computer module in your driver's
front door
When you use keyless entry, the illuminated entry
system turns on the interior lights for 25 seconds
and the buttons on the keypad light up. Do not
push the buttons with a key, ballpoint pen, pencil,
or any other hard object. These objects could
damage the buttons.
Unlocking the doors with the keyless entr .y
system
You must unlock the driver's door before you
unlock any of the other doors or trunk. If you let
more than five (5) seconds pass before pressing
numbers, the system shuts down, and you have to
enter the code again. The system has shut down if
the keypad light is out. If the keyless entry system
does not work properly, use the key or transmitters
to lock and unlock the doors or unlock the trunk.
102
1 To unlock the driver's door, enter the factory
code or your personal code. All codes have
five (5) numbers. After you press the fifth
number, the driver's door unlocks.
2 To unlock all passenger doors, press the ¾
button within five (5) seconds of unlocking
the driver's door or trunk, or re-enter the
code to open the driver's door, then press
3/4.
3 To unlock the trunk, press the 5/6 button
within five seconds of unlocking the driver's
or passenger's doors, or re-enter the code to
open the driver's door, then press 5/6.
As long as the driver's door has been unlocked
first, you can open the passenger door or the
trunk in any order.
Locking the doors with the keyless entry system
Along with unlocking your doors, you can use
the keyless entry system to lock the doors.
To lock all of the vehicle's doors at the same time,
press 7/8 and 9/0 at the same time. It is not
necessary to first enter the keypad code. This will
also arm your anti-theft system (if equipped).
Autolock
The Autolock feature will automatically lock all the
doors when:
the vehicle's doors are fully closed
the ignition key is turned to the ON position
someone is sitting in the driver's seat or a heavy
object is placed on it
the vehicle is in a forward gear, and D you
exceed three mph (five km/h). The Autolock
feature will repeat when: LI the ignition key
remains in the ON position
someone remains sitting in the driver's seat or a
heavy object is on the seat
a door is opened and then closed
the vehicle is in a forward gear, and
you exceed three mph (five km/h).
If you do not want to use the Autolock feature, it
can be deactivated by using the Feature Menu in
the Message Center.
Programming your own entry code
You can program up to three personal codes to
unlock your vehicle. These codes do not replace
the permanent code that the dealership gave you.
Use your personal code in the same manner as
you would your original code.
To program your own code:
1. Select five digits for your personal code.
2. Enter the factory code that the dealership
gave you.
3. Within five (5) seconds, press 1/2.
103
4. Within five (5) seconds of pressing 1/2, enter
your personal code, pressing each digit within
five (5) seconds of the previous digit.
5. Enter a sixth digit to indicate which Personality
should be recalled by this personal code.
1/2 Recall Personality 1
3/4 Recall Personality 2
9/0 No recall
An of the vehicle doors will lock and then
unlock to confirm programming of the new
code.
The keyless entry system registers this new code.
To open your vehicle, you can now use either code.
To erase all of the personal entry codes and remote
entry transmitters programmed to a vehicle:
1. Enter the original permanent code.
104
2. Press 1/2 within five (5) seconds of Step I.
3. Press and hold 1/2 for two (2) seconds.
All of the vehicle doors will lock and then
unlock to confirm erasure.
Do not set a code that presents the numbers in
sequential order, such as 1/2, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8, 9/0.
Studies show that people who idly press the
buttons usually press a sequential pattern. Also,
do not select a code that uses the same button
five times. Thieves can easily figure out these
types of codes.
Arming, disarmning and resettirig your anti-
theft system (If equipped) from the keyless
entry pad
If your vehicle is equipped with the optional
factory installed anti-theft system, the keyless
entry system will arm it when you use the 7/8 and
9/0 keys to lock the doors, and will disarm or
reset a triggered anti-theft alarm when you enter
in the five digit code to unlock the driver's door.
Remote Entry System
With the remote entry system, you can lock and
unlock the vehicle doors and open the trunk
without using a key. The buttons for the system
are located on the two hand held transmitters that
came with your vehicle. The remote also has a
personal alarm feature.
The system will work with up to four transmitters.
Your vehicle came with two transmitters.
Additional transmitters can be ordered from your
dealer.
The personal alarm feature operates only with the
ignition off. The LOCK, UNLOCK and TRUNK
features work whenever your vehicle is in Park or
Neutral.
Remote entry transmitter
Unlocking the doors and opening the trunk
To unlock the driver's door, press the UNLOCK
button.
To unlock the other doors, press the UNLOCK
button a second time within five (5) seconds of
unlocking the driver's door.
105
To open the trunk, press the TRUNK button twice
within five (5) seconds.
Locking the doors
To lock all the doors, press the LOCK button.
This will also arm the anti-theft system (if
equipped).
A programmable door lock horn chirp can be
activated through the message center. Once
activated, every depression of the lock button will
cause the vehicle to honk its horn briefly.
Activating the remote personal alarm
If you wish to activate the remote personal alarm,
press the PANIC button. This will honk the horn
and flash the low beam headlamps and tail lamps
for approximately two minutes and forty-five
seconds. You can turn it OFF by pressing the
PANIC button again or by turning the ignition key
to the RUN position.
106
Arming and disarming the alarm s system
If your vehicle is equipped with the factory
installed anti-theft system, the remote entry
system will automatically arm it when the doors
are locked with the remote entry LOCK button.
The remote entry UNLOCK button will disarm
or reset a triggered anti-theft alarm.
The remote entry system is designed to work
with the factory installed anti-theft system. It
may not work with other anti-theft systems.
Replacing the batteries
The remote entry transmitter is powered by two
coin type three-volt lithium 1616 batteries
(included) that should last for several years of
normal use. If you notice a significant decrease
in operating range, the batteries should be
replaced. Replacement batteries can be
purchased at most pharmacies, watch stores or at
your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer.
NOTE: The operating range of the remote entry
system can also be affected by weather conditions
(such as very cold temperatures) or structures
around the vehicle (buildings, other vehicles, radio
and TV towers, etc.). Typical operating range will
allow you to be up to 33 feet (10 meters) away
from your vehicle.
The transmitter can be snapped apart to replace the
batteries by twisting a thin coin between the two
halves of the transmitter. DO NOT TAKE THE
FRONT PART OF THE TRANSMITTER
APART. When installing the new batteries, be sure
to place the positive (+) side down as marked.
Snap the two halves back together.
Replacement / additional transmitters
In the event a transmitter is lost, a new one may be
purchased from your dealer.
To program replacement or additional transmitters
you must have all the transmitters intended for use
on your vehicle.
Initiating the following procedure erases all prior
programmed transmitters, thus ALL must be
reprogrammed at the same time.
1. Enter the factory keyless entry code. Your
personal code will not allow programming.
2. Press the 1/2 button.
3. Press one button on each of the transmitters
to be programmed. Each transmitter button
must be pressed within seven (7) seconds of
the prior one. Each time a transmitter is
successfully programmed, all of the vehicle
doors will lock and then unlock to verify
programming. If the doors did not
lock/unlock, your transmitter was not
programmed.
Additional transmitters may be purchased from
your dealer (remote entry system will work with
up to four transmitters). Follow the same
programming procedure as above.
107
THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15
OF THE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS
SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING TWO
CONDITIONS: (1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT
CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE, AND
(2) THIS DEVICE MUST ACCEPT ANY
INTERFERENCE RECEIVED, INCLUDING
INTERFERENCE THAT MAY CAUSE
UNDESIRED OPERATION.
NOTE: All transmitters to be used on your vehicle
must be programmed/reprogrammed at the same
time.
Battery Saver
When the ignition is turned off, the vehicle will turn
off battery voltage to the interior lights after 45
minutes.
This will prevent draining of the battery if those
lights have been left on inadvertently or if a door is
not completely closed. BatterV voltage to these
108
lamps will be restored when the outside front
door handles are lifted, the keyless entry keypad
is used, the remote entry transmitter is used, any
door is opened, the trunk is opened, or the
ignition key is turned to the ON position.
Anti-theft System
When armed, this system helps protect your
vehicle against break-ins or theft by monitoring
all doors, the hood, and the trunk lock cylinder.
When an unauthorized entry occurs, the system
triggers and will:
flash the headlamps, parking lamps, interior
lamps, and alarm indicator light
honk the horn
prevent the engine from starting
NOTE: The factory installed Remote Entry
System has a PANIC feature that also chirps the
vehicle horn and flashes the interior/exterior lamps
when the PANIC button on the remote entry
transmitter is pushed. The PANIC alarm and the
Anti-Theft alarm are two separate features.
Both the anti-theft alarm and the PANIC feature
can be active at the same time.
To tell the difference between a PANIC alarm anct
a triggered Anti-Theft alarm:
only the Anti-Theft alarm will cause the alarm
indicator light (located in the center of the
instrument cluster) to flash on and off.
only the Anti-Theft alarm will prevent the
engine from starting.
For more information on the PANIC alarm, see
Remote Entry System in the Index.
Arming the system
To arm the system, do the following four steps in
sequence.
1. Remove the key from the ignition.
2. Open any door. The alarm indicator light
will start flashing to remind you to arm the
system.
3. Lock the doors by using the power door lock
switch, pressing the remote entry transmitter
LOCK button or pressing the last two
buttons (7/8, 9/0) of the keyless entry
keypad.
The alarm indicator will now glow steadily.
4. Close all doors. The alarm indicator light
will then remain on steadily for
approximately 30 more seconds and then go
out. When the light goes out the system is
armed.
109
NOTE: Be sure to close all doors completely. If
not, the alarm indicator light will remain on.
Remember, your anti-theft system is armed only
after the alarm indicator light remains on steadily
for approximately 30 seconds after the last door is
closed, and then goes out.
You can also arm the anti-theft system with the
factory installed remote entry system or the keyless
entry system by following this sequence:
1. Remove key from ignition.
2. Close all of the doors.
3. Press the remote entry transmitter LOCK
button or press the last two buttons (7/8, 9/0)
of the keyless entry keypad to lock the doors.
The alarm indicator will come on for 30
seconds to show the alarm is arming and then
turn off to show that the alarm has armed.
110
The anti-theft system is designed to work with
the factory installed remote entry system. It may
not work with other remote entry systems.
NOTE: The anti-theft system will not activate
whfle someone is sitting in the driver's seat or if
there is a heavy object in the driver's seat.
Disarming an untriggered anti-theft system
You can disarm the system by:
unlocking a front door with the key (turn the
key all the way to the end of travel or the
system will not disarm).
using the keyless entry unlock code.
using the UNLOCK button of the remote
entry transmitter.
If you armed the system while inside your
vehicle, you can disarm it by turning the ignition
to the ON or ACC position. This allows you to
open the door and exit without triggering the
system.
Triggering the alarm system
The armed system will be triggered if:
any door is opened without disarming the
system (see previous paragraphs), or
the trunk lock cylinder is removed, or
NOTE: You can open the trunk with your key
without setting off the alarm.
the hood is opened.
Disarming a triggered system
The alarm can be disarmed by:
unlocking a front door with the key
using the keyless entry unlock code
using the UNLOCK button of the remote entry
transmitter
NOTE: The flashing lights and honking horn
will shut off automatically approximately
three minutes after the system is triggered.
It will trigger again if another intrusion
occurs. However, the engine will not be
allowed to start until the system is disarmed.
Windows
Using the Power Windows
Each door has a power control that opens and
closes the window on that door. The driver's
door has a master control panel that operates all
four windows.
Power windows can only be opened or closed
when the ignition is in the ON or ACC position
or during the ten minute delayed accessory
period after the ignition is turned off.
111
/!\WARNING
Do not let children play with the power
windows. They may seriously hurt
themselves. Make sure occupants are
clear of the window(s) before closing.
NOTE: Your vehicle is also equipped with a
delayed accessory timer. This allows some of your
accessories to remain on for up to 10 minutes after
the key is turned to the OFF position. The
accessory timer is cancelled if any door is opened
or the key is turned to the ON position.
112
The master controls on the driver's door
To lock our all window switches except the
master controls, press the window lock switch
once. To restore control to the individual
windows, press the switch again.
There is also an Express Down feature on the
driver's power window. This feature can be
activated through the menu functions of your
Message Center.
To operate, briefly press the driver's window
switch to the down position. The window will then
open automatically. To stop automatic operation,
briefly press the switch again to either the up or
down position. More than a quick press of the
switch provides conventional power window
operation. Closing of the power window is
conventional operation only.
Moon Roof (If equipped)
You can move the moon roof back to open the
glass panel, or you can tilt it up to ventilate the
vehicle.
The roof console ROOF switch is used to open and
close the moon rool Press and hold the switch until
the desired position is reached. At the fully closed
position, the motor automatically turns off.
The switch for the moon roof (overhead
console)
To open the moon roof, push switch rearward.
To close the moon roof, push switch forward.
To tilt the moon roof into vent position when the
glass panel is closed, press and hold the switch
forward.
113
To close from vent position, press and hold the
switch rearward.
Occasionally wiping the outside guide rail covers of
the moon roof with a clean cloth will help keep the
moon roof working properly.
The moon roof
/!\WARNING
Do not let children play with the moon roof.
They may seriously hurt themselves.
114
Seats
Head Restraints
If you use them properly, head restraints will
help protect your head and neck in a collision.
A head restraint should be placed as high as
possible behind your head without interfering
with your vision.
You can adjust the head restraints for your
comfort and protection.
Four-way head restraints
Your vehicle has the four-way head restraint.
You can adjust it in four directions. You can
raise it two (2) inches (50 mm) from its normal
position, or you can move it forward up to 60'
until you reach the desired position.
The four-way head restraint
Adjusting the Seats
/!\ WARNING
Never adjust the driver's seat or seatback
when the vehicle is moving.
/!\WARNING
To reduce the risk of serious injury in a
collision, always drive and ride with your
seatback upright and the lap belt snug
and low across the hips.
/!\ WARNING
Do not pile cargo higher than the
seatbacks to avoid injuring people in a
collision or sudden stop.
Using the Power Seats
Your vehicle's power seats can be adjusted in
several directions. You can raise or lower the
whole seat, move the seat forward or backward
and tilt the front and back of the seat up or
down.
115
The controls to operate the power reclining front
seats are located on the inside of each front door.
The arrows on the panel show the direction of the
seat movement. To move the seat back, move the
switch in the desired direction.
The power reclining seat switch on the driver's
side
116
Power Lumbar Support
With this feature, you can position a lumbar
support pad in the seatback.
The seat controls for the lumbar support on the
driver's seat
Heated Seats (If equipped)
The driver's and front passenger's Heated Seats are
controlled by the HEATED SEATS panel, which is
located directly below the Automatic Temperature
Control panel. The Heated Seat System will only
operate with the ignition key in the ON position
and will maintain a temperature automatically once
it is selected. NOTE: Leaving the Heated Seat
turned on when you shut the vehicle off will not
continue to heat the seat.
heated seat controls
The heated seat controls
To operate the Heated Seat System:
1. Select mode
"Both" to heat the seat back and seat cushion
"Back" to heat the seat back
117
2. Rotate the thumbwheel from "0" to " 1 " (the
lowest heat level). Allow five minutes for the
heat level to stabilize.
3. If the heat level is not high enough for comfort,
select increased heat levels "2' through "5" (the
maximum level). Allow at least two minutes
for the heat level to stabilize at any new level
selected.
4. If the heated seat switch is not turned off ("0"
on the thumbwheel), the seat will heat up to the
selected temperature level each time the car is
started.
NOTE: Cooling the seat down takes considerably
longer than increasing its heat level.
118
Cleaning the Seats
Leather
For routine cleaning, wipe the surface with a
soft, damp cloth. For more thorough cleaning,
wipe the surface with a leather and vinyl cleaner
or a mild soap.
Wipe the surface with a damp, soft cloth, then
dry and buff with a dry, soft cloth.
Fabric
Remove dust and loose dirt with a whisk broom
or a vacuum cleaner. Remove fresh spots
immediately. Follow the directions that come
with the cleaner.
NOTE: Before using any cleaner, test it on a
small, hidden area of fabric. If the fabric's color
or texture is adversely affected by a particular
cleaner, do not use it.
Memory Profile System
The Personality Memory Feature customizes your
Continental for up to two (2) drivers. The
following features are automatically recalled when
unlocking the doors using the remote entry
transmitter, keyless entry keypad, or by pressing
the Memory 1 or Memory 2 switches on the
driver's door:
All driver's seat positions except power lumbar
and head restraint.
Both left and right outside mirror settings.
Radio station presets including the last selected
station and band and 0 preset preferences on
FMI, FM2, and AM.
Instrument panel dimming setting.
Autolamp delay time-out setting.
Ride/Steering menu setting.
Feature Menu settings
The Ride/Steering menu is located in the
Message Center. The RIDE display allows you
to adjust the suspension feel to FIRM,
NORMAL, or PLUSH.
Pressing the Ride/Steering menu switch again
brings the STEERING display. This allows you
to adjust steering effort to LOW, NORMAL, or
HIGH.
For more information on ride/steering options,
see Road Calibrated Suspension later in this
chapter.
Personality Memory also allows you to
customize settings from the Feature menu
located in the Message Center. The Feature
menu contains five (5) features that you can
enable or disable. The features are listed in the
order they appear in the Feature menu.
EXPRESS WINDOW - for one tap down
operation of the driver's window.
119
AUTO DOOR LOCKS - automatically locks all
doors when the driver shifts out of PARK, all
doors are closed, and the vehicle speed is at
least three mph (five km/h).
HORN CHIRP - sounds an audible "chirp"
when you press the LOCK button on the remote
entry transmitter to verify that the doors have
been locked and the vehicle's anti-theft system
has been armed (if equipped).
SEAT ACCESS - moves the driver's seat back
two (2) inches or to the end of the seat track
when the vehicle is turned off and the ignition
key is removed. Upon the driver entering the
vehicle and closing the door, the seat will move
forward to its previous position.
REVERSE MIRROR - when the vehicle is
shifted to REVERSE, the outside rearview
mirrors tilt down. This provides an improved
view of the side of the vehicle and curb area
when backing up. When you shift out of
REVERSE, the mirrors return to their previous
positions.
120
Recalling Personality Memory
All of these settings are automatically recalled
when the driver unlocks the door using the
remote entry transmitter, keyless entry keypad or
presses either Memory I or Memory 2 switch
inside the driver's door. The vehicle must be in
PARK or NEUTRAL to recall Personality
Memory settings.
Remote Entry
Pressing the UNLOCK button on the remote
entry transmitter unlocks the driver's door and
recalls all of the Personality Memory settings.
Two transmitters are delivered with the vehicle.
One is programmed to always recall Memory I
and the other will always recall Memory 2.
Personality Memory 1 or 2 is indicated on the
back of the transmitter.
Personality Memory recall from the remote
transmitter can be disabled. This is done by sliding
the switch on the back of the transmitter to OFF.
Personality Memory can still be recalled using
keyless entry code or the Memory I or Memory 2
switches.
Keyless Entry
Up to three unique keyless entry codes can be
programmed by the customer. Two of the codes
can be assigned to recall Personality Memory I or
Memory 2. Each time the 5-digit code is entered on
the keypad, the driver's door will unlock and
Personality Memory 1 or Memory 2 will be
recalled.
NOTE: Please note that even though the driver's
Personality Memory may be recalled using remote
or keyless entry, the seats and mirrors will not
move to the driver's set positions until the driver's
door is opened.
Memory Switches
Pressing either the Memory I or Memory 2 switch
on the driver's door will also recall the Personality
Memory settings as selected, providing your
vehicle is in P (Park) or N (Neutral).
Auto Save
Any change made by the driver to one of the
above Personality Memory settings will be
updated and saved automatically. The display,
SAVED TO DRIVER I or SAVED TO
DRIVER 2, will appear on the Message Center
for five (5) seconds as a confirmation of the
update to Personality Memory. If a radio preset
is changed the radio display will also show
SAVED.
If the driver does not use the remote entry
transmitter, or keyless entry keypad to unlock the
doors upon entering or does not press the
Memory I or Memory 2 switch, then any change
to one of the Personality Memory settings
(except radio presets) will not be automatically
saved. Instead the driver will be prompted by the
Message Center whether to save the settings to
Driver 1 or Driver 2.
121
Pressing the SELECT switch will toggle between
1, 2 or no choice. If DRIVER I or DRIVER 2 is
selected, the display, SAVED TO DRIVER I or
SAVED TO DRIVER 2, will appear on the
Message Center to confirm the change has been
automatically saved with the Personality Memory.
If no choice is made by the driver, then the change
will not be automatically saved and there is no
effect on the Personality Memory.
Once this screen has been displayed, the driver will
not be asked again for the remainder of the drive.
Turning Personality OFF
The Personality Memory feature can be turned off
using the Memory OFF switch on the driver's door.
The amber indicator light will be lit when the
feature is turned OFF. Pressing either the Memory
I or Memory 2 switch will turn on the Personality
Memory feature and recall the saved settings.
122
Memory recall buttons
The Memory Profile System buttons
When Personality is OFF, the vehicle will
function as if the Personality Memory feature
was not on the vehicle. Also, when a change is
made to one of the Personality settings, there will
be no prompts on the Message Center asking
which driver to save the setting to.
Road Calibrated Suspension
Your Continental is equipped with a ride control
system that is designed to read disturbances in the
road surface every six inches at 60 mph (100 km/h)
to provide you with optimal driving response.
Ride control allows you to chose both a ride feel
and steering effort that best flts your personal
driving style. These options may be selected by
using the RIDE/STEER Message Center button.
Pressing this button once will allow you to adjust
your RIDE CONTROL settings, between
NORMAL, PLUSH and FIRM. The settings are
changed by pressing the SELECT button while
RIDE CONTROL is displayed.
Pressing the RIDE/STEER button a second time
will allow you to adjust the STEERING
EFFORT settings between NORMAL, LOW,
and HIGH. The settings are changed by pressing
the SELECT button while STEERING EFFORT
is displayed.
123
Steering
Suspension
High Normal Low
Firm
Stiff steering
Stiff suspension
True sports car
Winding roads
Optimum steering effort
Stiff suspension
Sports car ride with luxury
sedan steering feel
Non-optimum position
Not allowed
Cannot reach this state
Normal
Stiff steering
Ideal ride
Contemporary ride
with precise steer
Ideal steering and suspension
Best balance of vehicle
chassis systems
'Set it and forget it" mode
Easy steering
Ideal ride
Traditional luxury steer
and contemporary ride
Plush
Stiff steering
Soft suspension
Luxury ride with
sport steering
Ideal steering
Soft suspension
Broken pavement city
traffic
Easy steering
Soft suspension
What a Lincoln used to
be (and can still be!!!)
124
NOTE: The combination of FIRM RIDE
CONTROL and LOW STEERING EFFORT is
undesirable and cannot be selected.
Mirrors
Automatic Dimming Inside Rearview
Mirror (If equipped)
Some vehicles are equipped with an inside rearview
mirror and an outside driver's side mirror which have
an Auto-Dimming function. These electronic
day/night mirrors will change from the normal state
to the non-glare state when bright lights (glare)
reach the mirrors. These mirrors function at night,
and have a limited function at dusk or dawn. From
the non-glare state, the mirrors will return to the
normal state after a short delay. The delay starts
when glare goes away. The delay prevents
excessive changing of the mirrors as traffic moves
behind and around the vehicle, or on rolling hills and
curves.
The automatic dimming inside rearview
mirror (optional)
The sensitivity level of the mirrors can be adjusted
by moving the switch on the inside rearview mirror
between the OFF and MAX positions. MAX is the
most sensitive setting and bright headlamps far
away will cause the mirrors to automatically darken,
At the setting nearest OFF, bright headlamps will
have to be closer to darken the mirrors. The outside
125
side mirrors are controlled by the setting on the
inside mirror.
There are two light sensors (photocells) in this
mirror. The sensor that detects rear glare is located
next to the switch. The second light sensor which
determines outside light level is located on the
backside of the mirror case.
One important safety feature is that the mirror
automatically returns to the normal position
whenever the vehicle is placed in R (Reverse) (when
the mirror is in the ON position). This feature
ensures a bright clear view in the mirror when
backing up.
Do not clean the housing or glass of any mirror with
harsh abrasives, fuel or other petroleum-based
cleaning products.
126
Side View Mirrors
Your vehicle comes with electric side mirrors.
The side view mirror on the right is a convex
mirror. This mirror gives you a wider view of
the lanes on your right and behind you.
NOTE: When putting your vehicle in reverse,
both outside mirrors will tilt downward and
return to the adjusted position when taken out
of reverse. This feature can be disabled by
using the Menu Select button on the cluster. To
disable, press the menu button repeatedly until
"Reverse Mirrors" appears in the display, then
select OFF. To enable the reverse mirrors,
select ON.
/!\ WARNING
The side view mirror on the right makes
objects appear smaller and farther away
than they actually are.
power mirror switch selector switch
The electric remote control mirror switch
To adjust the side mirrors:
1. Find the control switch in the driver's door
panel.
2. Select the right or left mirror by moving the
selector switch to R or L.
3. Press any of the arrows for the direction
you want to move the mirror.
4. Return the selector switch to the middle
position to keep the mirror in place.
Do not clean the housing or glass of any mirror
with harsh abrasives, fuel or other petroleum-
based cleaning products.
Heated Mirror Feature
Both mirrors are heated whenever the Electric
Rear Window Defroster is turned on. Do not
remove ice from the mirrors with a scraper or
you could damage them. If the outside mirror
glass is frozen in place, do not attempt to
readjust or move the mirror glass or damage
may result.
127
Sun Visors
Using the Sun Visors
Your vehicle has special sun visors. Besides the
regular sun visor, you have a second visor. By
using both the regular sun visor and the second
visor, you shield the sun from both the front and the
side of the vehicle at the same time. You also have
a smaller center sun visor.
To block the sun, move the main visor sideways and
flip the second visor down.
Illuminated Visor Mirror
The illuminated visor mirror slides inside the visor.
To light the mirror, pull down the mirror and slide
switch at bottom of visor. To adjust the amount of
light, slide the switch left for LO (dim) and right for
HI (bright).
128
Lo/HI light switch Dim Bright
The illuminated mirror on the sun visor
Garage Door Opener
If you own a garage door opener, the overhead
console of your Continental contains a bin to house
your hand held garage door transmitter. This
feature allows you to activate your garage door
opener with a push of the GARAGE button once
your transmitter has been installed inside the
compartment.
Height
adjusters Velcro strips
The garage door opener bin
To install your garage door transmitter, open
the compartment by pressing the unmarked
button near the GARAGE button. The
compartment door will swing down.
Inside the compartment is a Velcro strip.
Remove the backing from the strip and press the
back side of your garage door transmitter to it.
Be sure to situate the transmitter so that one of
the five "pins" on the compartment door is in a
position to make contact with the garage door
transmitter's activation button after the
compartment door is closed.
NOTE: There are three black "height
adjusters" that can be removed and stacked on
top of each other if the pin is not tall enough by
itself to make contact with the garage door
transmitter's activation button. These extenders
may be placed on any of the five pins.
129
Universal Transmitter
(If equipped)
The Universal Transmitter provides a convenient
way to consolidate the functions of up to three
individual hand-held transmitters into one built-in
device.
The Universal Transmitter:
will operate garage doors, gates, home/office
lighting systems, security systems, by learning
and transmitting the radio frequency of your
current hand-held transmitters or nearly any
device that is controlled by radio frequency.
is built-into the driver's side visor and powered
by your vehicle's battery. No separate batteries
are necessary.
130
Red light Universal transmitter button Driver's sun visor
The Universal Transmitter
THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15
OF THE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS
SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING TWO
CONDITIONS: (1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT
CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE, AND
(2) THIS DEVICE MUST ACCEPT ANY
INTERFERENCE RECEIVED, INCLUDING
INTERFERENCE THAT MAY CAUSE
UNDESIRED OPERATION.
Programming the Universal Transmitter
NOTE: It is recommended that your hand-held
transmitter contain fresh batteries prior to
programming.
/!\ WARNING
Make sure that people or objects are clear
of the garage door, gate, etc. while you are
programming the system.
To program the Universal Transmitter:
I. Make sure your vehicle's engine is off.
2. Erase the Universal Transmitter's test codes by
holding down the two outside buttons. After
20 seconds the light will begin to flash. Release
both buttons immediately.
3. Choose one of the three Universal
Transmitter buttons to program. Place the
hand-held controller you want to program
within one inch of the Universal Transmitter.
Push and hold both the Universal
Transmitter button you want to program
and the hand-held controller at the same
time. The Universal Transmitter light will
flash slowly.
131
4. When the Universal Transmitter light begins to
flash rapidly (this could take up to 60 seconds),
release both buttons. You can now use your
Universal Transmitter instead of the hand-held
controller.
132
5. To program the other two buttons on
your Universal Transmitter, skip step two
and repeat steps 3 and 4.
NOTE: Be sure to keep your original
hand-held transmitter for possible retraining if it
becomes necessary to erase the Universal
Transmitter.
Note to Canadian users: Prior to 1992,
regulations required many hand-held controllers
to stop transmitting after one or two seconds.
Transmission will stop even though you
continue to hold down the button, and even if
the light on the hand-held transmitters remains
lit. If you think you have one of these
controllers, you should press and re-press the
controller every two seconds without releasing
the Universal Transmitter button. Release both
buttons when the Universal Transmitter light
begins to flash rapidly.
Operating the Universal Transmitter
/!\ WARNING
Do not use the Universal Transmitter with any
garage door opener that lacks safety "stop"
and "reverse" features as required by federal
standards.
To operate, press the appropriate button on the
Universal Transmitter. The light will illuminate
while the signal is being transmitted.
NOTE: The effective transmission range of
the Universal Transmitter may differ from your
hand-held transmitter.
Erasing the Universal Transmitter
Channels
To clear the Universal Transmitter of all three
previously stored frequencies, follow Step 2 of
the Programming the Universal Transmitter
section.
Console
Your vehicle may have a full console. The full
console has the following features:
133
Utility compartment armrest utility compartment beverage holder
The features on the full console
134
Cupholder with full console
The cupholder provides a space for your cup.
Mini console cupholders
Six passenger vehicles are equipped with a mini
console that is located within the ashtray panel.
To open the panel, press on the front of it and
release. It will open automatically. To close,
push the panel back into place until it latches.
/!\WARNING
Use only soft cups in the cupholder.
Hard objects can injure you in a
collision.
Storage Compartments
Your vehicle has two map pockets on the panels
of the front doors. The back of the front seats
also have map pockets.
Trunk
Opening the Trunk Manually
Locate the trunk lock in the rear reflector to the
right of the license plate to insert the key. Turn the
key to the right to open the trunk.
The trunk lock cylinder
Using the Power Trunk Release
You can use your power trunk release feature in
three ways:
With your electric trunk release, you can open
the trunk from inside your vehicle by pressing
the TRUNK RELEASE button located on the
driver side door. The TRUNK RELEASE
button will only function when the vehicle is
traveling under three mph (five km/h).
To open your trunk with the keyless entry
system, press 5/6 on the keyless entry pad
within five seconds of entering the keyless code.
You can also open the trunk by pressing the
TRUNK button on the remote entry transmitter.
To prevent inadvertent activation, the trunk
button must be depressed twice within five (5)
seconds to open the trunk.
135
open trunk lid
The remote control for the trunk
The trunk lid cannot be opened if your vehicle is
moving faster than three mph (five km/h).
Cargo Storage System
(If equipped)
Your vehicle may be equipped with a cargo storage
system. It was designed to allow you to use all
available space in your trunk while permitting easy
loading and unloading.
136
The cargo storage system
Release handle
To operate:
Grasp and squeeze the release handle to move the
cargo storage system rearward.
Place groceries, packages, etc. in the cargo storage
system.
Grasp and squeeze the release handle to move the
cargo storage system forward untfl it locks into
place.
NOTE: The cargo storage system has three
locking positions. Make sure the storage system is
securely locked in place.
Remote Control Fuel Filler Door Release
Button
Your vehicle has a remote control fuel filler door
which cannot be opened from outside of the vehicle.
To unlatch the fuel filler door, push the fuel door
button on the driver side door. Refer to Servicing
Your Vehicle in the Index for further information.
Located on driver's door Manual override
located in trunk on RH side
Press button to open fuel filler
door
The remote control fuel filler door release
button
137
Positive Retention Driver's Side Floor
Mat
Installing the floor mat
Position the floor mat in foot well. Place mat eyelet
over pointed end of retention post from the rear and
rotate forward to install. Adjust floor mat position
to allow proper operation of accelerator pedal and
brake pedal.
138
Must be Positioned 1 inch (25.5 mm) Away From Brake Pedal And Accelerator Pedal All Around To Front of
Vehicle Seat track floor mat
The positive retention floor mat
Removing the floor mat
Lift floor mat just forward of retention post and
rotate rearward to disengage from retention post.
The Electronic Compass
(If equipped)
The electronic compass
The compass is mounted to the inside rear view
mirror. The display is in the upper right hand
comer of the mirror glass.
The display will show one of the following
directions: N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W, and NW.
The brightness of the compass display is
controlled by the instrument panel dimming
switch.
Factors Affecting Compass Accuracy
Some things which can affect compass accuracy
are large buildings, bridges, power lines, and
powerful antennas. Keep radar detectors and
other magnetically mounted devices as far away
from the compass as possible. Sometimes after-
market and dealer-installed moon roofs can
affect the accuracy of the compass. Using
automatic car washes can cause minor
inaccuracies in the compass.
NOTE: Usually, when something affects the
compass readings, the compass will correct itself
after a few days of operating your vehicle in normal
conditions. If the compass is still giving inaccurate
139
readings after a few days, perform a compass
adjustment.
Compass-Calibration
I . For optimum calibration, switch off all non-
essential electrical accessories (rear window
defrost, heater/air conditioning, map lamps,
wipers, etc.) and ensure all doors are shut.
2. Drive to an open, level area away from large
metallic objects or structures.
3. Insert an appropriate diameter rod (paper clip)
into the left switch access hole underneath the
compass module and press gently for 1-2
seconds until "CAL" and a direction appear on
the display.
140
4. Release the button and drive in a circle
until "CAL" disappears from the display
(approx. 2-3 circles).
Compass-Zone Adjustment
1. The zone setting is factory pre-set to Zone
8. Refer to the Zone Map in this manual to
verify the correct compass zone setting for
your geographical location.
2. Insert an appropriate diameter rod (paper
clip) into the right switch access hole
underneath the compass module and gently
press the right button for 1-2 seconds until
"ZONE" and the current zone setting
appear in the display.
3. Release the right button.
4. Pressing the right button repeatedly will
cycle through all possible zone settings.
Stop cycling when the correct zone setting
for your location appears.
5. Releasing the button for 2 seconds will exit
the zone entry mode.
Securitire (If equipped)
Securitires are designed to allow you to
continue driving your Continental a limited
number of miles when one of your vehicle's tires
is at low or even zero air pressure.
141
At zero pressure, the Securitires will provide you
with a minimum driving capability of approximately
20 miles (30 kms). How you drive and the actual
amount of air pressure left in your tires will
determine exactly how many miles can be driven.
To extend the mileage and help prevent damage to
low or deflated tires, you should:
not exceed 55 mph (90 km/h) and drive at a
reduced rate of speed, if possible
avoid excessive hard steering and braking
maneuvers, if possible
stop periodically to allow the tires to cool down
/!\ WARNING
If your vehicle is driven with a low tire, the
tire itself may become very hot. Allow the
tire and wheel to cool before attempting to
change it.
142
Pressure Alert System
Each of your Securitires is monitored by a low
tire pressure sensor. A warning will appear in
the overhead console when the pressure in one
of your tires drops below acceptable levels or if
the system has malfunctioned.
Low Tire Pressure Warning Light Overhead
console
Low Tire Pressure Warning in the overhead
console
THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH FCC RULES,
PART 15. OPERATION IS SUBJECT TO THE
FOLLOWING TWO CONDITIONS: (1) THIS
DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE HARMFUL
INTEREFERENCE AND (2) THIS DEVICE
MUST ACCEPT ANY INTEREFERENCE THAT
MAY BE RECEIVED, INCLUDING
INTEREFERENCE THAT MAY CAUSE
UNDESIRABLE OPERATION.
Maintenance Warning
The "Low Tire Pressure" warning will illuminate
and stay on when one of your vehicle's tires drops
below 18 psi (124 kps). The warning light will also
come on and stay lit if the Pressure Alert System has
malfunctioned.
If this warning appears, check the pressure in your
tires at the earliest possible convenience and adjust
any tire that is low to the recommended air pressure
level. This information can be found on the Service
Station Information page at the back of this manual
or on the driver's door placard.
If the warning remains on after you have
adjusted the tires to recommended air pressure
levels, take your vehicle to an authorized
Lincoln/Mercury dealer for service.
Flat Tire Warning
If the sensors detect a tire pressure lower than I
0 psi (68 kps), the "Low Tire Pressure" warning
will flash repeatedly in the overhead console and
the message "Warning Low Tire Pressure" will
be displayed in the Message Center, indicating
an impending flat tire. If this condition occurs,
your Securitire requires service as soon as
possible. Refer to Servicing Your Secutitires.
NOTE: The Pressure Alert System will
activate only when the vehicle is moving faster
than 10 mph (15 km/h).
143
Servicing Your Securitires
/!\ WARNING
Do not use aerosol tire inflator/sealer with
Securitires. Doing so may damage the tire's
pressure sensor.
If you cannot service your Securitire immediately,
replace it with your mini-spare as soon as it is safe
to do so.
Your mini-spare tire can be used until your
Securitire has been repaired. See Tires in the
Servicing chapter of this guide for more information
on using the spare.
It is recommended that you always have your
Securitires serviced by an authorized Michelin tire
dealer. Each Securitire is equipped with a
pressure sensor around the wheel rim. This
sensor could be damaged when removing and
installing the tire. Servicing a Securitire at
144
locations other than your Michelin tire dealer
lmay adversely affect your warranty.
If you have questions concerning your
Securitires or servicing, please call the Michelin
Tire Information Line at 1-800-847-3435 or
contact your local Michelin tire dealer.
Lincoln RESCU System
(If equipped)
/!\ WARNING
It is important that you understand the
limitations of your Lincoln RESCU
System prior to initiating an activation.
See Lincoln RESCU System Limitations
later in this chapter for details.
Quick Summary
To utilize your vehicle's assistance request
feature, YOUR CELLULAR PHONE MUST BE
ACTIVATED.
Roadside or emergency assistance can be
requested whenever your key is in the
RUN/START position and for two minutes after
the vehicle is turned off.
An assistance request is initiated by pressing
either the tow truck or ambulance button located
in the overhead console.
When a button is pressed, a warning lamp located
in the overhead console begins to flash and status
messages are displayed on the vehicle's message
center. (Messages are only displayed when your
key is in the RUN/START position.)
The vehicle's cellular phone automatically
places a call to a 24 hour emergency
response center.
When contact is made, the vehicle sends an
electronic data message to the response center's
computer. This data message includes latitude
and longitude coordinates obtained from the
vehicle's positioning system.
Once the data transmission is complete, the
call is forwarded to a response center
operator who confirms your location using a
computerized map.
The vehicle's cellular handset is locked-out,
the phone is automatically placed in "hands
free" mode and voice communication is
established with the operator through the
"hands free" microphone.
Typically, voice communication with an
operator is established within one minute
after an assistance button is pressed.
145
The operator verbally obtains details of Your
situation and, if necessary, ties your vehicle into a
three-way phone call with the United States Auto
Club or local 911 or other emergency services to
dispatch the appropriate assistance to your
location.
Once the situation has been appropriately
handled, the operator will terminate the call, the
system warning light will stop flashing and the
system will be reset. In most situations, ONLY
the response center can terminate an assistance
request.
General Description
Lincoln's Remote Emergency Satellite Cellular
Unit (RESCU) is designed to expedite roadside or
emergency assistance to distressed motorists who
are uncertain of their location and/or are uncertain
of who to contact for assistance.
The Lincoln RESCU System utilizes Global
Positioning System (GPS) technology and the
146
nation's cellular phone network to track vehicle
location and, at the touch of a button, put you in
voice contact with the Lincoln Security
Response Center.
Two buttons in the overhead console will
activate the system. A tow truck icon for
roadside assistance and an ambulance icon for
emergency assistance
identify the buttons.
The Overhead Console
When you select a button, the vehicle's cellular
phone will automatically place a call to the response
center's central computer. Once contact is made, an
electronic data message will be transmitted. This
data message will include:
Type of alarm (roadside or emergency)
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Latitude and longitude coordinates
Last recorded speed and direction of the vehicle
Time tag identifying when last position was taken
Call-back phone number
After the transmission is complete, the call is
forwarded to an operator who will verify the details
of the request and confirm the vehicle's location
using computerized map.
Tow Truck Button
(Roadside Assistance)
The tow truck button should be selected if
roadside assistance is required. The feature
should be used:
when your vehicle runs out of gas
when your vehicle needs a tow
to acquire assistance in any non-emergency
situation
The Roadside Assistance button
147
When this button is pressed, the Lincoln Security
Response Center relays details of your situation and
your location to the United States Auto Club
(USAC) via a three-way phone call. The response
center/USAC will:
dispatch the appropriate service vehicle to your
location.
provide the service vehicle's estimated time of
arrival.
call back approximately three minutes after the
service vehicle's estimated time of arrival to
confirm that assistance has arrived.
Ambulance Button
(Emergency Assistance)
The ambulance button should be selected if
emergency assistance is required. This feature
should be used:
if you have been involved in an accident
148
to report a crime or fire
when medical attention is required
to receive assistance in any emergency
situation
The Emergency Assistance button
When this button is pressed, the Lincoln
Security Response Center relays details of your
situation and your location to local 911 or other
emergency services via a three-way phone call.
The response center/emergency services will:
dispatch the appropriate emergency help to
your location
when appropriate, stay in direct phone contact
with you until emergency help arrives
notify pre-designated family contacts or friends
of the emergency situation, if requested, or if no
response is received from the vehicle.
NOTE: If You are certain of your location, a direct
phone call to 911 or other emergency services may
provide a faster response.
Activation and Deactivation
When either of the two Lincoln RESCU buttons is
pressed, a warning light, located in the overhead
console, will begin to flash and status messages will
be displayed on the vehicle's message center,
confirming an assistance request has been made.
The warning light will continue to flash throughout
the activation.
The RESCU Warning light
The system can be activated whenever your
ignition key is in the RUN/START Position and
for two Minutes after your vehicle is turned off.
In most situations, the assistance request can
ONLY be terminated and the system reset when
a special tone is sent to the vehicle by the
Lincoln Security Response Center. (See
Automatic Redial later in this chapter for
exceptions.) Operation will continue even if the
vehicle is turned off during an activation
(although visual feedback via the Message
Center will not be available in this situation).
149
Cellular Phone Interface
During an activation, Lincoln RESCU takes control
of the vehicle's cellular phone. If the phone is in
use, THE CALL WILL BE TERMINATED and the
Lincoln Security Response Center will automatically
be dialed. The cellular handset becomes inoperative
and all voice communication with the operator is
accomplished via the cellular phone's "hands-free"
microphone.
NOTE: When an activation is terminated, your
phone is left unlocked, in the "ON" state and may
not return to its previous system selection setting. It
can be reprogrammed to your previous setting as
desired.
Message Center Interface
During an activation, Lincoln RESCU
communicates with the vehicle's Message Center.
Status messages describing the sequence of steps
being executed are displayed, allowing you to
visually follow the activation process. The
following messages are
150
typical of those displayed during an assistance
request. They are shown in the order in which
they would appear:
ROADSIDE REQUEST or EMERGNCY
REQUEST
CALL IN PROGRESS
RINGING RESPONSE CENTER
SENDING LOCATION DATA
DATA RECEIVED
WAITING FOR OPERATOR
Once an assistance request is made, it will
typically take less than one minute until contact
is made with an operator. During voice
communication the following messages will
alternately toggle on the display:
CID XXXXXXXXXX
LAT XXXXXXXXXX
LON
HDG XX
These messages respectively are the customer
identification number, vehicle latitude, vehicle
longitude and heading. Under special
circumstances, the operator may ask you to read the
information being displayed on the Message Center.
If vehicle messages are being displayed on the
Message Center (low washer fluid, low oil, door
ajar, etc.), they must be cleared in order to view the
LINCOLN RESCU messages. To clear the vehicle
messages, press the Message Center RESET button,
which is located to the right of the display.
Continue pressing the button until all vehicle
messages are cleared.
Automatic Redial
As described previously, when an assistance request
is made, the vehicle's cellular phone automatically
dials the Lincoln Security Response Center's central
computer and attempts to send an electronic data
message. Occasionally, it can be difficult for the
computer to recognize the message if the
cellular connection is weak or noisy. If the
transmission of the message is unsuccessful, the
data call will be terminated and the message
"REDIAL IN PROGRESS" will be displayed on
the Message Center. A second call will
automatically be placed which bypasses the
response center's computer and is forwarded
directly to an operator.
Similarly, if the cellular call is disconnected by the
network prior to receipt of the termination tone,
another call to the response center will also
automatically be dialed. The message "REDIAL
IN PROGRESS" will be displayed on the Message
Center and voice communication with an operator
will be restored.
NOTE: During redial calls, full control of the
cellular phone is returned to you. Pressing
either the "PWR" or "END" button on the
cellular handset will terminate the assistance
request and reset the system.
151
Location Data Retransmit Capability
During an activation, the Lincoln Security Response
Center operator has the capability to initiate a
retransmission of the electronic data message. This
may be necessary to ensure a more precise
determination of vehicle location or to track a
vehicle that is moving. To accomplish the
retransmit, a special tone is sent to the vehicle by the
response center. In this situation you will
temporarily lose voice contact with the operator and
the messages "SENDING LOCATION DATA" and
"DATA RECEIVED" will respectively be displayed
on the Message Center. After the data
retransmission is complete, voice communication
will be restored and the CID, LAT, LON and HDG
message will again alternately toggle on the
Message Center display.
152
Global Positioning System
Vehicle location is continuously updated via
Global Positioning System (GPS) technology.
GPS was developed by the U.S. Department of
Defense for worldwide navigational and
positioning purposes. It utilizes a constellation
of 24 orbiting satellites located more than 20
thousand kilometers above the earth. At any
given time, several of the 24 satellites should be
visible to the vehicle's GPS receiver. Based on
the time for signals emitted by these satellites to
reach the receiver, an on-board computer will
determine the vehicle's location, typically within
100 feet. In addition to latitude and longitude,
the system also determines heading and speed.
Vehicle positioning information is relayed to the
Lincoln Security Response Center ONLY
during roadside or emergency requests. The
response center will not be able to track your
location while in an inactive state.
Lincoln RESCU System Limitations
Service restricted to 48 contiguous states
Your Lincoln RESCU System can be activated
anywhere within the 48 contiguous states. If an
activation occurs outside of this region, the Lincoln
Security Response Center will not be able to assist
you.
Inoperative if cellular phone inactive or
inoperative
Lincoln RESCU utilizes your vehicle's cellular
phone and will not operate if cellular service has not
been activated or if the phone is inoperative.
Inoperative if battery discharged or disconnected
Lincoln RESCU is powered by the vehicle's battery
and will not operate if the battery is discharged or
disconnected.
Potentially inoperative if vehicle involved in
accident
If the vehicle is involved in an accident, some
components could be damaged, rendering your
Lincoln RESCU System inoperative.
Positioning capability degraded if satellite
signals obstructed
Vehicle positioning is accomplished by receiving and
interpreting signals transmitted by satellites. If the
signals are obstructed, positioning capability could
be degraded or lost. This situation will be most
prevalent in urban areas populated with tall
buildings. Tunnels, underpasses, parking garages,
trees, and similar structures could also adversely
affect positioning performance. Under these
conditions, the system will operate but the response
center could have difficulty identifying your current
location. (The last valid position obtained before the
obstruction is retained, however, and will be sent.)
The operator may depend on you to provide verbal
information regarding vehicle location.
153
Positioning capability temporarily degraded after
battery reconnect
When your vehicle is started, the Lincoln RESCU
GPS receiver begins the process of determining
vehicle location. The receiver will search the sky
and attempt to acquire signals from all visible
satellites. A real-time clock and an almanac
containing detailed information about the satellite
constellation are stored in the on-board computer's
memory and are used to expedite the search. If the
vehicle's battery is disconnected, the clock memory
is erased and time and date are lost. Once the
battery is reconnected, it could take approximately
15 minutes to reacquire the clock and for
positioning capability to be restored. During this
time, the system will operate but the response center
will not be able to identify your location. In this
situation, the operator will depend on you to
provide verbal information regarding vehicle
location.
154
Inoperative if cellular signal marginal or
unavailable
Since the Lincoln RESCU System utilizes the
vehicle's cellular phone, it can only be operated
in geographical areas with cellular coverage.
Although approximately 90 percent of the U.S.
population lives and works in cellular coverage
areas, there are various rural or mountainous
areas where coverage is marginal or does not
exist. If an activation occurs in this situation,
the messages "NO CELLULAR SIGNAL" and
"WAITING TO ACQUIRE" will alternately be
displayed on the Message Center. If after
several attempts cellular service cannot be
acquired, the message "UNABLE TO PLACE
CALL" will be displayed, the assistance request
wfll be terminated and the phone will return to
its normal operating mode.
Inoperative if cellular system busy
In a particular area, the local cellular system can
only handle a limited number of cellular calls at one
time. Once volume has reached the maximum limit,
additional callers are denied access. If an activation
occurs in this situation, the messages "CELLULAR
SYSTEM BUSY" and "PLEASE WAIT" will
alternately be displayed on the message center. If
after several attempts a cellular channel cannot be
acquired, the message "UNABLE TO PLACE
CALL" will be displayed, the assistance request will
be terminated and the phone will return to its normal
operating mode.
Incompatible with cellular PIN feature
Some cellular carriers offer custom phone numbers
that are assigned a personal identification number
(PIN). In this situation, the user is required to enter
the pin with any phone calls made over the network.
The Lincoln RESCU System is not compatible with
the pin feature. At the time your phone is activated,
ask your carrier to assign you a
phone number that does not require a personal
identification number entry. If you have difficulty
obtaining a non-PIN number, contact your dealer
or call the Ford Cellular System Clearinghouse at
1-800-367-3357 for assistance.
Incompatible or performance limited with
certain cellular provider features.
Some cellular carriers offer customers various
optional features with their cellular service.
Several of these features are not compatible or
could potentially limit the performance of your
Lincoln RESCU System. The cellular features
that should be avoided to ensure maximum
system performance include: no outgoing calls,
hotline, call forwarding, no incoming calls, npa
restrictions, busy/no answer transfer, and call
waiting. Because carriers are regularly making
new features available to the customer, this list
may not be complete. Contact your dealer for
assistance if you are unsure if a particular cellular
feature is compatible with your Lincoln RESCU
System.
155
Potential limitations if activated outside home
cellular region
At the time you receive your vehicle (or shortly
after), you will need to select a cellular carrier and
activate your phone. If desired, carrier selection can
be arranged through your dealer. This carrier is
usually local to your region and will handle call
processing and billing services for your cellular
telephone. In order to use your phone when
traveling outside your home cellular region, the
services of the carriers local to the new area will be
required. If your home carrier does not have an
agreement with the new local carrier, your phone
calls could be forwarded to an operator and you
may be required to provide a credit card number
before your call is processed. If an activation occurs
call in this situation, the initial call will be terminated
and a second call which bvpasses the response
center’s computer will be placed. UNLIKE
DURING THE FIRST CALL ATTEMPT, YOUR
CELLULAR HANDSET WILL NOT BE
LOCKED DURING THE SECOND CALL, SO
YOU WILL HAVE THE
156
OPTION OF TERMINATING THE ASSISTANCE
REQUEST AT ANY TIME BY PUSHING EITHER
THE “PWR" OR THE “END” BUTTON ON THE
CELLULAR HANDSET. If the second call is not
terminated, it will be forwarded to a local cellular
carrier operator. In this situation, you can provide
the operator. with the number you are dialing
(Lincoln Security Response Center at 1-800-334-
1327) and your credit card number or ask to be
connected to the local 911 or other emergency
services.
Registration Requirement
You are required to register with the Lincoln
Security Response Center shortly after receiving your
vehicle. The registration process is simple and can be
accomplished by calling the Lincoln Security Center
at 1,800-334-1327. Alternatively, the registration
process can be completed on-line during an
acquaintance period activation. (See “Acquaintance
Activations” later in the section for details.) The
information requested will aid in servicing you more
efficiently during the assistance request.
Optional Password Selection/False
Activations
At the time of your registration, you will be given
the option of establishing a user password. All
aspects of your service will be identical regardless of
your password decision except the way false
emergency activations are handled.
If established, the password will be requested by the
operator to confirm an emergency activation was
initiated in error. If no password or an incorrect
password is given, the response center's operator
will seemingly terminate the call but actually stays
on the line and sends police to the last calculated
vehicle location (this could be useful in duress
situations). It is very important that you remember
your password to prevent false dispatches.
Similarly, it is also important to provide the
password to any other individuals who will be
driving the vehicle or who may have need to activate
the system.
If you decide not to establish a password, simply
indicate to the operator that the emergency
assistance request was initiated in error and the
call will be terminated.
In either case, if an activation (roadside or
emergency) occurs and the operator cannot
establish voice communication, police assistance
will be dispatched to the vehicle.
NOTE: Information regarding changing or
retrieving lost passwords can be obtained by
contacting the Lincoln Security Response
Center at 1-800-334-1327.
Acquaintance Activations
It is required that you initiate an acquaintance
activation shortly after receiving your vehicle and
having your phone activated. An acquaintance
activation is initiated by pressing either the roadside
or emergency assistance button. When voice
communication is established with the Lincoln
Security Response Center, indicate that you are a
new user and the operator will follow special
acquaintance period support procedures which are
157
intended to familiarize you with your Lincoln
RESCU system. As described previously, the
acquaintance call can also be used to complete the
registration for new customers.
Service Charges
For four years, beginning with your vehicle's
warranty period, you will be entitled to unlimited
activations without facing service charges. (These
activations should be made only when emergency or
roadside assistance is required.) You will be
responsible, however, for any charges imposed by
your cellular phone carrier for the 1-800 phone call
to the Lincoln Security Response Center. After
your initial service period expires, you may be
required to pay a monitoring service fee. Your
dealer can provide you with specific information
regarding post initial service period fees.
158
Relinquishing your vehicle
At the time you relinquish your vehicle, it is
important that you contact the Lincoln Security
Response Center at 1-800-334-1327 and cancel
your security service. Personal information
provided to the response center at the time of
your registration will be removed from the
vehicle's file.
Electronic Sound Systems
Volume on Treble Bass AM Display Tape FM1/FM2 Balance DSP Blank skip
Fade Seek Autoset Scan Eject Fast forward BASS TREB Tune Compact discs Tape Dolby/
Compression Shuffle Rewind Memory preset buttons
Luxury Audio System (Digital)
159
Volume/ Treble Bass AM Display SCAN Dolby Tape Tune Autoset Fastforward
Luxury Audio System (Analog)
160
Luxury Audio System
Using the Controls on Your New Radio
How to turn the radio on and off
Press the "VOL/PUSH ON" knob to turn the
radio on. Press again to turn it off.
How to adjust the volume
Turn the "VOL/PUSH ON" knob clockwise to
increase the volume and counter-clockwise to
decrease the volume.
NOTE: If the volume is set above a certain level
when the ignition is turned off, the volume level
will reset to a "nominal" listening level when the
ignition switch is turned back on. However, if the
radio is turned off with the "VOL/PUSH ON"
knob, the volume will not reset and will stay at
the same level when the radio is turned back on.
Selecting the AM or FM frequency band
Push the "AM" or "FM1/FM2" button to select
the desired frequency band. Pushing the
"FM1/FM2" button more than once will
alternate between FM1 and FM2. These
functions are used with the station memory
buttons described under How to tune radio
stations.
HOW to tune radio stations
There -are four ways for you to tune in a
particular station. You can use the "TUNE",
"SEEK", 'SCAN”or memory buttons.
Using the "TUNE" function
You can change the frequency up or down one
increment at a time by Pressing and releasing
either the left ( )or-right ( ) side of the
"TUNE" or "TUNE DISCS" button. To
change frequencies quickly, press and hold
down either the right or left side of the button.
161
Manual tuning adjusts your radio to any
allowable broadcast frequency, whether or not a
station is present on that frequency. (See All
About Radio Frequencies in this section.)
Using the "SEEK" function
Press the right *) side of the 'SEEK" button to
select the next listenable station up the
frequency band. Press the left (.4) side of the
button to select the next listenable station
down the frequency band. By holding the
button down, listenable stations can be passed
over to reach the desired station.
Using the 'SCAN" function
Pressing the "SCAN" button will begin the
scan mode up the frequency band, stopping on
each listenable station for approximately five
seconds.
To stop the scan mode on the presently
sampled station, press the "SCAN" button again.
162
Setting the station MEMORY PRESET buttons
Your radio is equipped with 6 station
memory buttons. These buttons can be used
to select up to 6 preset AM stations and 12
FM stations (6 in FMI and 6 in FM2)
1 Select a band, then select a frequency.
2. Press one of the memory buttons and hold
until the sound returns and the lamp above
the memory button lights up. That
memory button is now set.
3. Follow the above steps for each memory
preset button.
NOTE: Custom memory presets
can be recalled using the keyless entry
system. See Memory Profile System in
the Features chapter.
Using the Automatic Memor.y Store feature
(“AUTOSET”)
If the memory buttons have been set, either by
using the Auto Memory Load feature or if you
have set them manually, the system is prepared to
let you use a convenient feature called
Automatic Memory Store.
With Auto Memory Store, you can continually
set strong stations into your memory buttons
without losing your originally set stations. Your
radio will automatically set your memory buttons
to the strong local stations.
Activate Auto Memory Store by pushing the
"AUTOSET" button once. Your radio will set
the first six strong stations of the band you are in
(AM, FMI or FM2) into the memory buttons.
The display will flash "AUTO" and display the
autoset icon "A" while the stations are being set
in the memory buttons.
NOTE: If there are less than six strong
stations in the frequency band, the
remaining unfilled buttons will store the
last strong station detected on the band.
After all stations have been filled, the radio
will begin playing the station stored on
memory button 1.
To deactivate the Auto Memory Store mode and
return to the manually-set memory button stations,
simply push the "AUTOSET" button. Display will
show "AUTO" then "OFF". The next time Auto
Memory Store is activated on that band, the radio
will store the next set of six strong stations.
Adjusting the tone balance of your radio
Increasing or decreasing bass and treble
response Push the "BASS/TREB" popout knob
to gain access to the bass and treble controls.
Bass control allows you to adjust the lower,
bass frequencies to your preference. The outer
ring of the "BASS/TREB" knob adjusts the
bass (turn clockwise to increase bass;
counterclockwise to decrease bass).
163
Treble control allows YOU to adjust the higher,
treble frequencies of your radio to your
preference. The inner ring of the "BASS/TREB"
knob adjusts the treble (turn clockwise to
increase treble; counterclockwise to decrease
treble).
Adjusting speaker balance and speaker fader
Push the "BAL/FADE" popout knob to gain
access to the speaker balance and fader controls.
Balance control allows YOU to adjust the sound
distribution between the right and left speakers.
The outer ring of "BAL/FADE" knob adjusts the
speaker balance control. (Turn clockwise to shift
the sound to the right speakers, and turn left
counterclockwise to shift the sound to the
speakers.)
164
Fade control allows YOU to adjust the sound
distribution between the front and rear speakers.
The inner ring of the 'BAL/FADE" knob adjusts
the speaker fader. (Turn clockwise to shift the
sound to the rear speakers, and turn
counterclockwise to shift the sound to the front
speakers.)
Using the Digital Signal Processing
(DSP) Feature
Push the "( DSP )" button to activate the
feature. The display will indicate Which signal
mode is in effect. To change the signal mode press
either the left ( ) or right ( ) side of the selector
button (located under the "( DSP )" button).
The following signal modes May be selected:
1. "HALL" - Rectangular concert hall capacity of
about 2,000.
2. "CHURCH” - Church with a high vault.
3. 3. "JAZZ" - Jazz club with clearly reflected
sounds.
4. “'STADIUM" - Outdoor stadium with a
capacity of about 30,000.
5. “NEWS" - “Voice-only" type of sound with a
limited audio band.
To deactivate the DSP feature, press the
"( DSP )" button again.
Delayed Accessory Feature
If the ignition is turned off while the radio is on,
the radio will continue to play for up to ten
minutes or until a door is opened.
Speaker Locations
Your Ford JBL sound system is equipped with a
total of ten speakers: two speakers in each of the
four doors and two subwoofers located in the
rear package tray.
Your Antenna
Antennas for both AM and FM reception are
hidden in the back glass of your vehicle. There
is an internal antenna module that will switch
between AM and FM, when bands are changed,
for maximum reception performance.
NOTE: Do not attempt to adapt any other type
of antenna system to your audio system.
Using the Controls of Your Cassette
TapePlayer
NOTE: Radio power must be on to use the
cassette tape player.
How to insert a tape
Your cassette tape player is equipped with
power loading. Once you insert a tape and push
slightly (with the open edge to the right), the
loading mechanism draws the tape the rest of the
way in and play will begin after a momentary
tape tightening process. Display indicates
"TAPE" while tape is playing.
165
If the player is in the tape mode but not in Play,
pressing the 'TAPE" button will activate play. If
the "TAPE" button is pressed with no tape
inserted, the display will flash "NO TAPE".
How to locate a desired track on the tape
There are six ways to quickly locate a desired
selection on the tape. You can use the fast
forward, rewind, Blank Skip, "SEEK", "SCAN"
or "SIDE 1-2" functions. Following are brief
descriptions of each:
Fast forwarding the tape
To fast forward the tape, press the "FF'
button. The radio will play while the tape is in
fast forward. The light above the "FF" button
will blink while in the fast forward mode.
Press "FF" again or press the "TAPE" button
to stop fast forwarding. At the end of the
tape, the direction automatically reverses and
plays the other side of the tape.
166
Rewinding the tape
To rewind the tape, press the "REW' button.
The radio will automatically begin playing
while the tape is rewinding. The light above
the "REW" button will blink while in the
rewind mode. Press "REW" again or press
the 'TAPE" button to stop rewinding.
Using the "SEEK" function with your cassette
tape player
While in the tape mode, push the right ( )
side of the "SEEK' button to seek forward to
the next selection on the tape. Push the left
( ) side to restart a currently playing tape
selection.
Using the 'Blank Skip" function with your
cassette tape player
Press the "Blank Skip" button to activate
the blank skip mode. After approximately
20 seconds of blank program, the tape will
seek forward to the next program.
Using the "SCAN" function with your cassette
tape player
Pushing the "SCAN" button will begin the
forward scan mode on the tape currently
playing, stopping on each tape selection for
approximately eight seconds.
To stop the scan mode on the presently
sampled tape selection, press the "SCAN"
button or the "TAPE" button.
How to change the side of the tape being
played
The alternate side of the tape can be selected
by pressing the "SIDE 1-2" button.
How to eject the tape
To stop the tape and eject the cassette, press the
"EJECT" button. The tape will eject only when
in the tape mode. The cassette cannot be ejected
when the radio is playing an “AM” or "FM"
station. The system will revert to radio
mode when the cassette is ejected.
How to store the tape
Press the "AWFM" button to stop the
tape player and resume radio play.
Using the Dolby B noise
reduction feature
NOTE: Noise reduction system
manufactured under license from Dolby
Labs Licensing Corporation. "Dolby" and
double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby
Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
Push the button to activate. When
activated, the light above the button
will be illuminated,
Tape error messages
Your cassette tape player is equipped to
diagnose certain problems you may
experience. Error codes are as follows:
167
TD El - Radio tries to change sides of tape 3
times in a 10 second span. push ,EJECT" and try
another tape. if problem persists, refer problem to
qualified personnel for service.
TD E2 - Tape eject failure. Radio tries to eject
tape and it will not eject. push "EJECT" to elect
tape. if the tape Will not eject, refer problem to
qualified personnel for service.
TD E3 - Loading error. push 'EJECT" to elect
tape. Reload tape. If the same error code
appears in the display, try another tape.
Tips on Caring for the Cassette Player
and Tapes
In order to keep your cassette tape player
performing the Way it was meant to, read and
follow these simple precautions:
Using a Ford Cassette Cleaning Cartridge to
clean the tape player head after 10-12 hours of
play will help maintain the best playback
sound and proper tape operation.
168
Only cassettes that are go minutes long or
less ger than go minutes should be used.
Tapes longer than 90 minutes are thinner
and subject to breakage or may jam the tape
player mechanism.
Protect cassettes from exposure to direct
sunlight, high humidity and extreme heat or
cold. If they are exposed to extreme
conditions allow them to reach a moderate
temperature before playing.
If a tape is. loose inside the cassette; tighten
it by putting, your finger or a pencil into
one of the holes and turning the hub until
the tape is tight.
Loose labels on cassette tapes can become
lodged in the mechanism. Remove any
loose label material before inserting a
cassette.
Do not leave a tape in the cassette tape
player when not in use. High heat in the
vehicle can cause the cassette to warp.
Ford 6-CD Changer
Introduction
The Ford 6-CD Changer is mounted in your
console and holds 6 CDs, all controlled by using
buttons on your Luxury Audio System.
Be sure to read all of the information provided on
the following pages to get the most out of this
system.
Loading Instructions
1. Open Compact Disc Changer unit by suding
door to the right (Figure 1).
Figure 1
2. Push the button to eject the disc
"magazine" (holds 6 discs) (Figure 2).
169
Disc magazine eject button
Figure 2 Figure 3
3. Load discs into the disc magazine slots
(numbered I through 6) one at a time with
labeled surfaces upward, starting with bottom
slot number I (Figure 3).
170
4. Insert loaded disc magazine into
chamber unit with the arrow on top of the
disc magazine pointing toward the
changer (Figure 4). Make sure magazine
is fully inserted into changer.
Figure 4
NOTE: To remove one or more compact disc(s)
from the disc magazine, push the corresponding
lever(s) to the back. Disc(s) will partially come
out for easy removal.
5. Close unit by sliding changer panel door to
the left.
The Compact Disc Changer unit is now ready to
play using the controls of your Luxury Audio
System.
How to Operate the Ford 6-CD
Changer Using the Controls on the
Radio
If your vehicle is equipped with the Ford 6-CD
Changer System, you can operate it through the
controls of your Luxury Audio System.
Several of the controls on the radio operate in
the same manner in CD mode as they do in radio
or cassette mode: turning the power on, volume
control and adjusting the bass, treble, speaker
balance or fade.
How to begin CD Changer play
NOTE: Radio power must be on to operate the
Compact Disc Changer.
Push the "CD" button to begin CD play. The
CD Changer will automatically begin playing the
first track (selection) of the first disc loaded in
the unit. 0 The display will indicate "CD-#.#" for
disc number then display "TR-##" for track
number, then "DD-TT" for disc number and
track number.
171
How to change the disc being played
When in the CD mode, you can change discs by
pressing the right (pop.) side of the "TUNE
DISCS" button (to select the next disc) or the
left ( ) side of the "TUNE DISCS" button (to
select the next disc) or the left ( ) side of the
“TUNE DISCS” button to select the previous
disc). Play will begin on the first track of the
selected disc.
When either side of the button is pressed and
held, the CD changer will continue fast-
forwarding or reversing through the discs in the
disc magazine. During these functions, the
display will indicate the disc number.
How to change the track being played
Press the right ( ) side of the "SEEK" button to
seek forward to the next track of current disc.
After the last track has been completed, the CD
player automatically wraps back to the first track
of the current disc.
172
Press the left ( ) side of the SEEK
button to seek in reverse to the previous
track on the current disc. If a selection
has been playing for three seconds or
more and you press the left ( ) side of
the SEEK button, the CD Changer will
replay that selection from the beginning.
Operating the CD Compression feature
The compression feature will bring soft
and loud passages closer together for a
more consistent listening level.
To turn the compression on, press the #5
" /COMP" button. (While in the CD
Changer mode, the Dolby button controls
the compression function.) When the
compression feature is activated, the
display will indicate "C". Press again to
deactivate.
Operating the Shuffle feature
The shuffle feature on your CD player allows you
to listen to your disc selections in a different
order. When this feature is activated, your CD
player will randomly select and play tracks on the
disc.
Press the "SHUFFLE" button to turn on, press it
again to turn off. When on, the light above the
"SHUFFLE" button will illuminate.
Operating the "SC4N"function
Press the "SCAN" button to enter the scan mode.
The CD player will begin scanning the disc,
stopping on each listenable track for
approximately an eight second sampling. This
continues until you press the "SCAN" button a
second time.
Operating the Shuffle and Scan features
simultaneously
Both the shuffle and scan features can be
activated simultaneously. In this mode, the
player will randomly pick a selection and play
the first eight seconds. This process is
continued until either the "SCAN" button or
"SHUFFLE" button is pressed a second time.
How to stop CD play
While in CD Changer mode, press the EJCT,
AM or FMI/FM2 button to stop CD play and
resume radio play. Also, loading a cassette into
the cassette deck will stop CD play and begin
cassette play.
Balance control allows you to adjust the sound
distribution between the right and left speakers.
Push the "AUDIO" button repeatedly until the
display reads "BAL." Push the right (+) side of
the "VOLUME" button to shift the sound to the
right speakers, and push the left (-) side to shift
the sound to the left speakers.
173
How to take care of and clean the CD Changer and
discs
To ensure the continued performance of your CD
Changer carefully read the following precautions:
Always handle a disc by the edge. Never
touch the playing surface.
Before playing, inspect all discs for any
contamination. If needed, clean discs with an
approved disc cleaner, such as the
Discwasher Compact Disc Cleaner or the
Allsop 3 Compact Disc Cleaner, by wiping
from the center out to the edges. Do not use
a circular motion to clean.
Do not clean discs with solvents such as
benzine, thinner, commercially available
cleaners or antistatic spray intended for analog
records.
Do not expose the discs to direct sunlight or
heat sources for an extended period of time.
174
Do not insert more than one disc into
each disc slot of the disc magazine.
Doing so may damage the discs, disc
magazine or the disc changer.
Do not insert anything other than discs
into the disc magazine.
/!\ WARNING
The laser beam used in the compact disc
player is harmful to the eyes. Do not
attempt to disassemble the case.
CD Error Messages
Your system is equipped to diagnose
certain problems you may experience.
The error codes are:
- CD El - Mechanism error.
- CD E2 - Focus error.
- BAD CD - Disc unreadable.
- TOO HOT - Mechanism over 167' Farenheit,
allow to cool before playing.
- NO CD - Empty slot or magazine.
- NO DJ - CD Changer not connected or not
communicating.
Common Operating Conditions of the
CD Player
The following information is designed to help
you recognize typical situations that could be
mistakenly interpreted as mechanical
malfunctions of the disc player.
A disc is already loaded.
The disc is inserted with the label surface
downward.
The disc is dusty or defective.
The player's internal temperature is above
167°F (75°C). Allow the player to cool off
before operating.
Different manufacturers of compact
discs may produce discs with different
dimensions or tolerances, some of
which may not be within industry
standards or in accordance with the
CD format. Because of this, a new
disc that is free of dust and scratches
could be defective and may not play on
your Ford Compact Disc Player.
If play does not begin after the CD button
is pushed:
The radio is not on.
The unit is in the stop mode.
Moisture may have condensed on the
lenses within the unit. If this occurs,
remove the disc and wait
approximately an hour until the
moisture evaporates.
175
If the sound skips:
Badly scratched discs or extremely rough
roads will cause the sound to skip. Skipping
will not damage the disc player or scratch the
discs.
Common Radio Reception
Conditions
Several conditions prevent FM reception from
being completely clear and noise-free, such as the
following:
Distance/Strength
The strength of the FM signal is directly related
to the distance the signal must travel. The
listenable range of an average FM signal is
approximately 24 miles (40 km). Beyond this
distance, the radio is operating in a "fringe" area
and the signal becomes weaker. Also, "Signal
Modulation" is used by some stations to increase
their "loudness" relative to other stations. The
difference in loudness can be a result of signal
modulation as well as signal strength.
176
Terrain
The terrain (hilly, mountainous, tall buildings) of
the area over which the signal travels may
prevent the FM signal from being noise-free.
Repeated pops and hisses which are heard during
an otherwise clear broadcast can occur near the
station because of the "line of sight"
characteristic of FM radio waves.
If there is a building or large structure between
the antenna and station, some of the signal
"bends" around the building, but certain spots
receive almost no signal. Moving out of the
"shadow" of the structure will allow the station
to return to normal.
When the radio waves are reflected off
objects or structures, the reflected signal
cancels the normal signal, causing the
antenna to pick up noise and distortion.
Cancellation effects are most prominent in
metropolitan areas, but also can become
quite severe in hilly terrain and depressed
roadways.
To minimize these conditions, a stereo/mono
blend circuit has been incorporated into this
system. This feature automatically switches a
weak stereo signal to a clearer monaural signal,
which improves the quality of reception.
Several sources of static are normal conditions
on AM frequencies. These can be caused by
power lines, electric fences, traffic lights and
thunderstorms.
Another reception phenomenon is Strong Signal
Capture and Overload. This can occur when
listening to a weak station and when passing
another broadcast tower. The close station may
capture the more distant station, although the
displayed frequency does not change. While
passing the tower, the station may switch back
and forth a few times before returning to the
original station.
When several broadcast towers are present
(common in metropolitan areas) several
stations may overload the receiver,
resulting in considerable station changing,
mixing and distortion.
Automatic gain control circuitry for both AM and
FM bands has been incorporated into this system to
reduce strong signal capture and overload.
All About Radio Frequencies
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
and the Canadian Radio Telecommunications
Commission (CRTC) establish the frequencies that
AM and FM radio stations may use for their
broadcasts. The allowable frequencies are, AM:
530, 540... 1600, 1610 kHz in 10 kHz steps; FM:
87.9, 88.1... 107.7, 107.9 MHz in 0.2 MHz steps.
Not all frequencies will be assigned to a given area.
This radio will time to each of these frequencies
using manual tune and no fine tuning is necessary as
radio stations may not use other frequencies.
177
Some FM radio stations advertise a "rounded-
off" frequency which is not the frequency they
actually broadcast on. For example, a radio
station that is assigned a frequency of 98.7 MHz
may call itself "Radio 99" even though 99.0
MHz is not an allowable FM broadcast
frequency.
178
Important Warranty and
Service Information
About Your Warranty
Your sound system is warranted for four
years or 50,000 miles (whichever occurs
first). Consult your vehicle warranty booklet
for further information.
Servicing Your Audio System
At Ford Electronics, we stand behind our
audio systems with a comprehensive service
and repair program. If anything should go
wrong with your Ford audio system, return to
your dealer for service. There is a nationwide
network of qualified Ford authorized repair
centers to assist you.
Driving Your Continental
Your vehicle has an automatic overdrive
transaxle. You may be familiar with the term
"transmission." We use transaxle because it is a
more accurate term for vehicles that have front-
wheel drive.
Driving with an Automatic
Overdrive Transaxle
Your automatic overdrive transaxle provides
fully automatic operation in either
(Overdrive) or D (Drive). Driving with the shift
selector in (Overdrive) gives the best fuel
economy for normal driving conditions. For
manual control, start in 1 (First) and then shift
manually.
Your vehicle is equipped with an Electronic
Powertrain Control Module that limits engine
and/or vehicle speeds with a cut-out mode to
promote durability.
Putting Your Vehicle in Gear
Your vehicle's gearshift can be on the column
or on the console.
/!\ WARNING
Hold the brake pedal down while you
move the gearshift lever from position to
position. If you do not hold the brake
pedal down, your vehicle may move
unexpectedly and injure someone.
179
To operate:
1. Start the engine.
2. Depress and hold the brake pedal.
3. Depress the thumb button (console-mounted
gearshift only).
4. Move the gearshift lever out of P (Park).
Your vehicle is equipped with a Brake Shift
Interlock safety feature. This feature prevents
the gearshift from being moved from the P
(Park) position until the brake pedal is
depressed. This feature is active when the
ignition is in the ON position. If the gearshift
lever CANNOT be moved from P (Park) with
the brake pedal depressed:
1. Turn the engine off and remove the ignition
key.
2. Apply parking brake.
3. Reinsert the ignition key and turn clockwise
to the first position (OFF).
180
4. Depress the brake pedal, depress the
thumb button (console-mounted gearshift
only), move the gearshift lever to N
(Neutral) and start the engine.
If you need to shift out of P (Park) by using
the alternate procedure described above, it is
possible that a fuse has blown and that your
brakelamps may also not be functional.
Please refer to the Servicing Your
Continental chapter for instructions on
checking and replacing fuses.
/!\ WARNING
DO NOT DRIVE YOUR VEHICLE
UNTIL YOU VERIFY THAT THE
BRAKELAMPS ARE WORKING.
Using a column-mounted gearshift
If your gearshift is on the column, you can use
any of the following positions:
Park neutral reverst overdrive drive first
The positions of the column-mounted gearshift
Once you place the gearshift securely into
position, gradually release the brake pedal and use
the accelerator as necessary.
181
Using a console-mounted gearshift
(If equipped)
Thumb button Park Reverse Neutral Drive First
The console-mounted gearshift
182
The console-mounted gearshift thumb button and
brake pedal must be depressed to move the
gearshift lever out of P (Park). The thumb button
pops out automatically when the gearshift latches
into position. Once the gearshift is secure,
gradually release the brake pedal and use the
accelerator as necessary.
Gear Selection (Column- and
Console-Mounted Control)
R (Reverse)
With the gearshift in the R (Reverse) position, the
vehicle will move backward. You should always
come to a complete stop before shifting into or out
of R (Reverse).
N (Neutral)
With the gearshift in the N (Neutral) position, the
vehicle can be started and is free to roll. Hold the
brake pedal down while in this position.
Driving
When to use (Overdrive)
(Overdrive) is the usual driving position for an
automatic overdrive transaxle. It works the same
way D (Drive) works, automatically upshifting or
downshifting as the vehicle speeds or slows.
However, (Overdrive) also shifts into a fourth gear
- an overdrive gear - when your vehicle cruises at a
consistent speed for any length of time. This fourth
gear will increase your fuel economy when you travel
at cruising speeds.
(Overdrive) may not be appropriate for certain
terrain. If the transaxle shifts back and forth between
third and fourth gears while you are driving on hilly
roads or if your vehicle requires additional power for
climbing hills, shift to D (Drive).
When to use D (Drive)
D (Drive) eliminates the excessive shifting
between third and fourth gears that your
vehicle sometimes does when you are traveling
through hilly terrain in Overdrive. It also
gives more engine braking to ml slow your
vehicle on downgrades than Overdrive.
When to use 1 (First)
Use I (First) when added engine braking is
desired when descending steep hills.
The automatic transaxle will shift to the proper
gear to ascend any grade without any need to
shift to I (First).
P (Park)
Always come to a complete stop before you
shift into P (Park). Make sure that the
gearshift is securely latched in P (Park). This
locks the transaxle and prevents the front
wheels from rotating.
183
/!\ WARNING
Always set the parking brake fully and make
sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P
(Park). Never leave your vehicle unattended
while it is running.
You can tell a column-mounted gearshift is securely
latched in P (Park) if the lever is adjacent to the P
(Park) and you cannot move it without pulling it
toward you and rotating it downward.
You can tell a console-mounted gearshift is securely
latched in P (Park) if the lever is adjacent to the P
(Park) and you cannot move it without pushing in the
thumb button.
The gearshift will lock when you turn the key to the
LOCK position. When the gearshift is in any
position except P (Park), the ignition key cannot be
turned to the LOCK position or removed from the
steering column. To remove the key, the gearshift
lever must be in P (Park).
184
Traction Control (If equipped)
Your vehicle may be equipped with the
optional Traction Control, system. This
system helps prevent wheel spin in order to
improve tire traction and is an especially useful
feature when you drive in hilly areas or on
slippery, icy or snowy roads.
When the Traction Control system is
controlling wheelspin, an electric motor sound
may be heard from the engine compartment and
engine acceleration may seem slower. This is
normal.
Traction Control works automatically by
rapidly applying and releasing the brakes and
reducing engine torque to prevent one or both
of the front drive wheels from spinning during
acceleration.
During the Traction Control function, which
most often occurs during low speed
acceleration on slippery surfaces, a noise may
be heard coming from the engine compartment.
This is normal and may last for a few seconds
during the acceleration of the vehicle.
In general, this system improves your vehicle's
stability and acceleration performance when road
conditions warrant. Traction Control is fully
effective at all vehicle speeds.
If the Traction Control system is cycled
excessively, the brake portion of the system will shut
down to prevent the front brakes from overheating.
A limited Traction Control function using engine
torque will still control wheels from spinning. A
cooling down period is required to prevent damage
to the brakes. This time period varies and depends
on brake usage during the cooling down period.
Anti-Lock braking is not affected and will function
normally during the cool down period.
After the cool down period, the full Traction
Control' function is restored.
Steering Your Vehicle
Your vehicle comes with power steering.
Power steering uses energy from the engine to
help steer your vehicle.
If the amount of effort needed to steer your
vehicle changes, check your steering effort
selection in the Message Center. If this is not
the problem, have the power steering system
checked. If the power steering system breaks
down (or if the engine is turned off), you can
steer the vehicle manually but it takes more
effort.
The steering system in your vehicle is speed
sensitive. This means that the steering effort is
light for parking and heavier for highway
driving. However, if you have to swerve
around an object or another vehicle, your
steering will have full power assist.
185
Never hold the steering wheel to the extreme right or
left for more than five seconds if the engine is running.
This can damage the power steering pump.
Air Suspension Adaptive Ride
Control System
Your vehicle has an air suspension system with
automatic load leveling and automatic ride control.
This system keeps your vehicle at a constant level by
adding air or releasing air from the springs. Ride and
handling is enhanced by firming shock absorber
performance during certain road conditions, steering
maneuvers, braking, and accelerations and is
returned to the driver selected ride calibration when
driver or road surface induced motion changes are
completed.
A shutoff switch is located behind an access panel in
the left side of the trunk. If this switch is in the OFF
position, the air suspension system will remain at a
constant state, not adjusting for varying loads or
driving conditions.
186
Normal vehicle operation does not require any
action by the driver.
For a more complete listing of the various
driving and steering options available, see Road
Calibrated Suspension in the Features chapter.
Air suspension switch
The air suspension switch
Brakes
Applying the Brakes
Your vehicle has anti-lock disc brakes on all four
wheels. They adjust automatically as the brake pads
wear down.
When you press down hard on the brake pedal, the
wheels will not lock and slide. The Anti-lock Brake
System (ABS) automatically starts releasing and
reapplying the front brakes independently and the
rear brakes together whenever your wheels start to
lock. When this happens, you will feel the brake
pedal pulsate. This is an indication that the ABS
system is working correctly and is normal.
Each time you turn the ignition key to the ON
position, the anti-lock brake system will function
through one test cycle. When this happens, the ANTI-
LOCK light will come on for up to five seconds and a
clunk may be felt in the pedal. If the light stays on
longer than five seconds, shut off the
engine and restart. If it remains on, it means the
anti-lock brake system is disabled and should be
serviced immediately to restore the benefits of
the anti-lock feature. Normal braking is not
affected unless the brake warning light is also lit.
The And-lock Brake System has self-check
capabilities. As described above, the system
turns on the ANTI-LOCK light each time you
start your engine. After the engine is started
and the ANTI-LOCK light turns off, the system
performs another test the first time the vehicle
reaches 14 m.p.h. (22 km/h). The system turns
on the ABS pump motor for approximately 1/2
second. At this time, a mechanical noise may
be heard. This is a normal part of the self-
check feature. If a malfunction is found during
this check the ANTI-LOCK light will come on.
Do not drive with your foot resting on the
brake pedal; you will wear out the linings and
increase your vehicle's stopping distance.
Brake rotor damage may also eventually occur.
187
NOTE: If you are driving down a long or steep hill,
shift to a lower gear and do not apply your brakes
continuously. If you apply your brakes continuously,
they may overheat and become less effective.
Occasional brake squeal during light to moderate
stops does not affect the function of the brake system
and is normal. However, if the squeal becomes
louder or more frequent, have your brakes inspected
by your dealer or a qualified service technician.
Ford Motor Company has not found any detrimental
effects of popular mobile radio transmitting
equipment installed on vehicles with the anti-lock
brake system, if the equipment is installed according
to the manufacturer's instructions. However, if
mobile radio transmitting
188
equipment is installed in your vehicle and, if
either the anti-lock brake system cycles or the
ANTI-LOCK light comes on at any time other
than right after you turn the key to the ON
position or during a sudden stop, have your
mobile radio dealer inspect the installation.
Parking Brake
The parking brake should be used whenever
you park your vehicle.
The parking brake is suspended just below the
lower left corner of the instrument panel.
To set the parking brake while parking your
vehicle, apply the brake pedal with your right
foot and hold it while you push the parking
brake down firmly and fully with your left foot.
The Parking brake
/!\ WARNING
Always set the Parking brake fully and
make sure that the gearshift is securely
latched in P (Park).
/!\ WARNING
If the parking brake is fully released, but
the Brake System light-remains on, have
the brakes checked immediately. They
may not be working properly.
/!\ WARNING
To prevent personal injury, do not release
the parking brake while outside the
vehicle.
189
You have an automatic release for the parking brake.
The parking brake should automatically unlock when
you move the gearshift to any forward gear while the
engine is running. However, the automatic release
does not work when the gearshift is in reverse,
neutral or park.
To manually release the parking brake, pull the
BRAKE RELEASE handle located on the lower left
comer of the instrument panel. The Brake Warning
Light will illuminate if the parking brake is not fully
released when the engine is running.
The parking brake is not designed to stop a moving
vehicle, but you can use the parking brake to stop
your vehicle in an emergency if the normal brakes
fail. However, since the parking brake applies only
the rear brakes, the stopping distance will increase
greatly and the handling of your vehicle will be
adversely affected.
190
Always check the Brake Warning light each
time you start your engine. Driving with the
parking brake on will cause the brakes to wear
out quickly and will reduce the fuel economy.
Driving Under Special Conditions
Tips for Safe Driving
As with any new vehicle, yours may drive and
handle differently from your previous vehicle.
Use care until you become accustomed to its
various features and driving characteristics.
Operate your vehicle within reasonable limits.
Sudden acceleration, deceleration, turning, or
combinations of these maneuvers can cause a
vehicle to behave differently than anticipated.
Driving in Bad Weather
Slippery roads
On some slippery road surfaces, front-wheel drive
may provide better acceleration than rear-wheel
drive. However, this does not mean that your
vehicle can stop any faster or any better than a
vehicle with rear-wheel drive. Exercise the same
caution while driving on slippery roads with your
front-wheel drive vehicle as you would with a rear-
wheel drive vehicle.
Do not quickly move the steering wheel unless
necessary.
Drive slower than you normally would.
Give your vehicle more distance to stop.
/!\ WARNING
To avoid skidding and losing control on
slippery roads, do not downshift into First
(1) when you are moving faster than 20
mph (32 km/h).
/!\ WARNING
If your vehicle has speed control, do not
use it on slippery roads. You could lose
control of your vehicle and could injure
someone.
If your vehicle gets stuck (for example, in mud
or snow), you may try to "rock" it out of the
spot. Shift, in a steady rhythm, between
forward and reverse gears. While in each gear,
press lightly on the accelerator and release.
191
/!\ WARNING
Do not spin the wheels at over 35 mph (55
km/h). The tires may fail and injure a
passenger or bystander.
By moving the vehicle backward and forward, you
may gain enough momentum to move out of the
spot. Do not rock the vehicle for more than a few
minutes. This may overheat the engine, damage the
transaxle, or damage the tires. If you are still stuck
after a minute or two of rocking, call for a tow truck.
High water
Do not drive through flooded areas unless you are
sure that the water is below the bottom of the wheel
rims.
If you must drive through high water, drive slowly.
You may have limited traction or wet brakes, so
allow extra stopping distance because your vehicle
will not stop as quickly as usual.
192
After you drive through the standing water,
apply your brakes gently several times as your
vehicle moves slowly. This helps to dry the
brakes.
Driving With a Heavy Load
There are limits to the amount of weight your
vehicle can carry or tow. The total weight of
your vehicle, plus the weight of the passengers
and cargo, should never be more than the
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Also,
the weight that your vehicle carries over the
front axle and rear axle should never be more
than the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
for the respective axle.
You can find your vehicle's GVWR and
GAWR on the Safety Compliance Certification
Label on the left front door lock facing or on
the door latch post pillar.
The weight limits of your vehicles tires affect the
GVWR or GAWR limitations. Usage of replacement
tires with higher weight limit than originals does not
increase GVWR or GAWR. Usage of lower
capacity replacement tires may lower GVWR and
GAWR limitations.
/!\ WARNING
If the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the
Safety Compliance Certification Label is
exceeded, your vehicle may be damaged or
you may lose control and injure someone.
Limiting Your Vehicle's Load
The load that you add to Your vehicle must not
exceed the maximum load stated on the Safety
Compliance Certification Decal attached to the left
front door pillar.
To figure the weight of your vehicle's load, add
the weights of.
the driver and passengers
luggage and any other items that you put in
your vehicle
the tongue load of the loaded trailer
the Weight of any equipment that has been
added to your vehicle since it was delivered
to your dealer
If you do not know the actual weights of these
items, use the following procedure to figure the
weight of a load:
1. Weigh your vehicle without the driver,
passengers and luggage. You might take
your vehicle to a shipping company or an
inspection station for trucks.
2. Then weigh Your vehicle with the driver
passengers and luggage.
193
3. Subtract the first reading from the second to
figure the total weight of the load.
After determining this load, you must also make sure
that the total weight of your vehicle, plus the load it
carries, is less than its GVWR. Also, make sure that
the weight your vehicle carries over each axle is less
than the GAWR for the respective axle.
If your vehicle exceeds the GVWR, remove cargo
from your vehicle accordingly. If your vehicle
exceeds the GAWR for either axle, shift the load or
remove cargo accordingly.
/!\ WARNING
Improper distribution of your vehicle's load
or carrying weight in excess of the amount
shown on the tire decal can cause rapid tire
wear or loss of vehicle control.
194
Trailer Towing
Your vehicle is capable of towing a trailer of up
to a maximum of 2,000 lbs. (907 kg) gross
trailer weight with a maximum tongue load of
200 lbs. (91 kg).
Because towing a trailer puts extra strain on
your vehicle, you must follow certain
precautions for your safety and the good of
your vehicle:
Stay within the load limits for towing your
vehicle. (See Trailer towing specifications
in this chapter.)
Carefully and thoroughly prepare your
vehicle for towing, making sure to use the
right equipment and to attach it properly.
(See Preparing to Tow in this chapter.)
Use extra caution when driving your vehicle
while you tow. (See Driving while you tow
in this chapter.)
Service your vehicle more frequently if you tow a
trailer. (See Servicing your vehicle if you tow in
this chapter.)
Ten to 15% of the loaded trailer's weight should be
on the tongue. However, the tongue load should
never exceed 10% of the maximum weight that your
vehicle can safely tow.
New vehicles should be driven 2,000 miles (3,200
km) before towing a trailer.
/!\ WARNING
Towing trailers beyond the maximum
recommended gross trailer weight exceeds the
limit of the vehicle and could result in engine
damage, transaxle damage, structural
damage, loss of control, and personal injury.
/!\ WARNING
Do not tow a trailer when the
temporary spare tire is being used.
See the following chart for the amount of
weight your vehicle can tow.
195
Towing Class
Light-duty
Maximum gross trailer
weight
1,000/2,000 lbs. (454/907
kg)*
Maximum tongue load
100/200 lbs. (45/91 kg)
Engine
4.OL
Hitch design
Load carrying type
Traffer-tow package
option
Not required
Vehicle speed should not exceed 45 mph (72 km/h) when
towing on grades. Limit maximum gross trailer weight to
1,000 lbs. (454 kg) and maximum tongue load to 100 lbs. (45
kg): (1) when you are towing a trailer on steep hills or on
moderate hills for a long distance (five miles (8 kms) or more)
(2) on very hot days (when the temperature is 1OO°F (38°C)
or more).
You should also limit your trailer's load when you
tow in high altitudes.
196
Preparing to Tow
For your safety and for the good of your
vehicle, use the right equipment for the type of
trailer you tow. Also, make sure that all
towing equipment is properly attached to your
vehicle. If you are not certain that you are
using the right equipment in the proper manner,
see your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer.
Do not use hitches that clamp onto your
vehicle's bumper. The bumper is not designed
to bear the load.
Always check the pressure in all your vehicle's
tires when preparing to tow (see inflation
recommendation on the tire label).
Connecting the safety chains
Always attach the trailer's safety chains to your
vehicle. They help protect your trailer if the
hitch breaks.
To connect the trailer's safety chains:
1. Cross the chains under the trailer tongue and
attach them to your vehicle's frame or hook
retainers. Never attach the safety chains to your
vehicle's bumper. The bumper is not designed to
bear the weight of a trailer.
2. Make sure that you leave enough slack in the
chains to allow you to turn corners.
If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions that
the rental agency gives you.
Connecting the trailer's brakes
Electric brakes and manual, automatic, or surge-type
hydraulic brakes are safe if you install them properly
and adjust them according to the manufacturer's
instructions. Be sure that your trailer's brakes meet
local and federal regulations.
Separate trailer brakes of adequate size should be
used for trailers weighing over 1.000 lbs. (454 kg)
loaded weight.
/!\ WARNING
Do not connect a trailer's hydraulic
brake system directly to your vehicle's
brake system. Your vehicle may not
have enough braking power and your
chances of having a collision greatly
increase.
Connecting the trailer's lights
Do not connect a trailer's fighting system
wiring directly to your vehicle's fighting
system wiring. To get the proper equipment
for hooking up your trailer's lights, see your
local trailer dealer and your Ford dealer. Be
sure to follow their instructions carefully.
If you do not install trailer lights correctly, you
may cause damage to the vehicle's hghting
system.
197
Driving While You Tow
Be especially careful when driving while you tow a
trailer. Never drive faster than 45 mph (70 km/h)
when you tow in hilly country on hot days. Also,
anticipate stops so that you can brake gradually.
Towing a trailer increases the load on the engine and
transaxle, particularly in hilly country and with
heavier trailers. Under these conditions you may
experience an excessive amount of shifting between
Overdrive and Third gears. Moving the shift selector
to D (Overdrive Lockout) will keep this from
happening and will provide better engine braking.
When driving in less hilly country or with a lighter
trailer load. you may move the gearshift selector
lever to (Overdrive) without experiencing
excessive shifting.
198
When driving down steep hills, you should put
the gearshift selector lever in the I (First)
position to shift the transaxle into second gear.
This will provide additional engine braking.
The automatic transaxle will automatically
downshift to the proper gear for driving up a
grade.
If you use the speed control while you are
towing on very long, steep grades, the speed
control may shut off.
Servicing your vehicle if you tow
If you tow a trailer for a long distance, your
vehicle will need to be serviced more frequently
than usual. See the Maintenance Schedule and
Record booklet.
Roadside Emergencies
Jump-Starting Your Vehicle
Your vehicle's battery may die if you leave the lights
on or any electrical equipment on after you turn the
engine off. If this happens, you may be able to
jump-start from a booster battery to start your
vehicle.
/!\ WARNING
The gases around the battery can explode if
exposed to flames, sparks, or lit cigarettes.
An explosion could result in injury or vehicle
damage.
/!\ WARNING
To protect yourself when charging a battery,
always shield your face and eyes. Make sure
that you can breathe fresh air.
/!\ WARNING
Applying too much pressure on the ends when
lifting a battery could cause acid to spill. Lift
the battery with a carrier or with your hands
on the opposite comers.
199
/!\ WARNING
Batteries contain sulfuric acid which bums
skin, eyes, and clothing.
If the acid touches someone's skin, eyes, or clothing,
immediately flush the area with water for at least 15
minutes. If someone swallows the acid, have him or
her drink lots of milk or water first, then Milk of
Magnesia, a beaten egg, or vegetable oil. Call a
doctor immediately.
To avoid damaging your vehicle or your battery, and
to avoid injury to yourself, follow these directions
for preparing your vehicle to jump-start and
connecting the jumper cables in the order they are
given. If in doubt, call for road service.
200
Preparing Your Vehicle
1 . Your vehicle has a 12-volt starting system, so
you need to use a 12-volt jumper system. You
will damage your starting motor, ignition system,
and other electrical parts if you connect them to a
24-volt power supply (either two 12-volt
batteries in series,or a 24-volt generator set).
2. Do not disconnect the battery of the disabled
vehicle. You could damage the vehicle's
electrical system.
3. Park the booster vehicle close to the hood of the
disabled vehicle. Make sure the vehicles do not
touch each other. Set the parking brake on both
vehicles and stay clear of the engine cooling fan
and other moving parts.
4. Check all battery terminals and remove any
excessive corrosion before you attach the jumper
cables.
5. Turn on the heater fan in both vehicles. Press the
DEFROST button. Turn off all other switches
and gauges.
Connecting the jumper cables
1. Connect one end of the first jumper cable to the
positive (+) terminal of the discharged battery.
(You can connect either jumper cable to the
positive (+) terminal, as long as you use the
same cable for both positive terminals.) Most
jumper cables have a red cable and a black cable.
The red cable is generally used for the positive
terminals and the black for the negative ones.
2. Connect the other end of the first cable to the
positive (+) terminal of the booster battery.
3. Connect one end of the second cable to the
negative (-) terminal of the booster battery NOT
to the discharged battery.
4. Connect the other end of the second cable to a
good metallic surface on the engine or frame of
the disabled vehicle.
/!\ WARNING
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.
201
Alternator mounting brace stud jumper cable
The engine with jumper cables
202
Booster battery
Jump-Starting
1. Make sure that the jumper cables are not in the
way of moving engine parts, then start the
booster vehicle. Run the engine at a moderate
speed.
2. Let the discharged battery charge for a few
minutes and then start the disabled vehicle. It
may take a couple of tries before the vehicle
starts. If the vehicle does not start after several
attempts, there may be a different problem.
3. When both vehicles are running, let them idle
for a few minutes to charge the discharged
battery.
Removing jumper cables
1. Always remove the jumper cables in the
reverse order. Remove the negative (-) end of
the jumper cable from the metallic surface on
the engine or frame of the disabled vehicle.
2. Remove the negative (-) cable from the booster
battery.
3. Remove the positive (+) cable from the booster
battery.
4. Remove the other end of the positive (+) cable
from the discharged battery.
After the vehicle is started, let it idle for a while to let
the engine "relearn" its idle conditions. Drive it
around for a while with all electrical accessories
turned off to let the battery recharge. You may need
to use a battery charger to fully recharge the
battery.
If you need to replace your battery, see Battery in the
Servicing Your Vehicle chapter.
203
Changing a Tire
if you get a flat tire while you are driving, do not
apply the brake heavily. Instead, gradually decrease
the speed. Hold the steering wheel firmly and
slowly move to a safe place on the side of the road.
Park on a level spot, turn off the ignition, set the
parking brake, and turn on the hazard flashers.
The Temporary Spare Tire
You may have a high pressure temporary spare tire.
This spare tire is smaller than a regular tire and is
designed for emergency use only. Use it only when
you get a flat tire and replace it as soon as you can.
This spare tire is marked with the words
"TEMPORARY USE ONLY" so that you can easily
identify it.
204
/!\ WARNING
If you use the temporary spare tire
continuously or do not follow these
precautions, the tire could fail, causing you to
lose control of the vehicle, possibly injuring
yourself or others.
When you drive with the temporary spare tire,
DO NOT:
exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) under any
circumstances.
load your vehicle so that it is heavier than the
maximum vehicle load rating listed on the tire
decal.
tow a trailer.
try to repair the temporary spare tire or remove it
from its wheel.
use the wheel for any other type of vehicle.
drive through an automatic car wash with this
tire. Because the temporary spare tire is smaller
than a conventional tire, it reduces the ground
clearance. Your vehicle may get caught in the rails
and it could be damaged.
Spare Tire Location
The spare tire is stored under the carpet on the floor
of the trunk.
You will find additional instructions for the spare
tire on the warning label located on the wheel and
the jacking instructions located on the spare tire
cover.
Washer Spare tire Wing nut Spring Jack bolt hook Cover Wheel nut wrench
The spare tire location
205
To remove the spare tire:
1. Remove the spare tire cover.
2. Unscrew the wing-nut holding down the spare
tire.
3. Lift out the spare tire and jack kit.
Preparing to Change the Tire
1. Make sure that your vehicle will not move or
roll. Put the gearshift in P (Park). Set the
parking brake and block the wheel that is
diagonally opposite the tire that you are
changing.
/!\ WARNING
If the vehicle slips off the jack, you or
someone else could be seriously injured.
Turn off the air suspension switch prior to jacking.
206
/!\ WARNING
On vehicles equipped with Air Suspension,
turn OFF the Air Suspension switch prior to
jacking, hoisting or towing your vehicle.
Air suspension switch
The air suspension switch - located in the trunk
2. Get out the spare tire and jack.
/!\ WARNING
To avoid injury, never run the engine with
one wheel off the ground, such as when
changing a tire.
3. Remove the center ornament from the aluminum
wheel with the tapered end of the wheel nut
wrench which came with your vehicle. Insert
and twist the handle, then pry against the wheel.
4. Loosen each wheel lug nut one-half turn
counterclockwise, but do not remove them until
the tire is raised off the ground. You should pull
up on the handle rather than push to develop
maximum force to loosen wheel lug nuts. See
Anti-Theft Wheel Lug Nuts later in this chapter
for information on removing anti-theft lug nuts.
Removing and Replacing the Tire
I - Place the scissors-type jack under the side of the
vehicle and adjust the jack height with the jack
handle. The jack should fit in the notch in the
vertical rocker panel flange which is nearest to
the wheel to be changed.
/!\ WARNING
To lessen the risk of personal injury, do not
put any part of your body under the vehicle
while changing a tire. Do not start the engine
when your vehicle is on the jack. The jack is
only meant for changing the tire.
207
The notches for the jack
208
2. Turn the jack handle clockwise until the wheel
clears the ground. Remove the wheel lug nuts.
3. Replace the flat tire with the spare tire, making
sure that the air valve stem is facing outward.
4. Reinstall the lug nuts, tightening until the wheel is
snug against the hub. The beveled edges on the
lug nuts face inward. Do not fully tighten the lug
nuts until you lower the vehicle. If you do, you
could force the vehicle off the jack.
5. Lower the vehicle by turning the jack handle
counterclockwise.
6. Remove the jack and fully tighten the lug nuts in
the order shown in the following illustration. As
soon as possible, have your dealer or a qualified
service technician check the lug nuts for proper
torque specifications.
7.
8.
9. Lug nut
The lug nuts on the wheel
7. Place any ornaments in the trunk.
8. Put the tire, jack, and wrench away. Make
sure the jack is securely fastened so it does not
rattle when You drive.
9. Unblock the wheels.
10. Turn on the air suspension switch.
After replacing a flat tire with the temporary spare
tire, the flat tire can be secured in the trunk tub by
placing the "J" hook through a lug nut hole in the
wheel with the tire and wheel lying at an angle.
Anti-Theft Wheel Lug Nuts
(If equipped)
If your vehicle has this option, one of the lug nuts on
each wheel locks and must be unlocked with a special
key. The key and registration card are attached to the
lug wrench and stored with the spare tire. If you lose
the key, send the registration card to the manufacturer
(not the dealer) to get a replacement key.
NOTE: If entire lug wrench/lug nut key assembly is
lost, see Your nearest Ford Or Lincoln-Mercury
dealer who has access to a master set of keys.
DO NOT USE A POWER IMPACT WRENCH
ON THE LUG NUT KEY
209
Lug nut key Anti-theft lug nut
The anti-theftft lug nut and key
Removing the anti-theft lug nut
Insert the key over the locking lug nut. Make sure
that you hold the key square to the lug nut. If you
hold the key on an angle, you may damage the key
and the lug nut.
Place the lug nut wrench over the lug nut key and
apply pressure on the key with the wrench. Turn the
wrench in a counterclockwise direction to remove
the lug nut.
210
Replacing the anti-theft lug nut
Insert the key over the locking lug nut. Place the lug
nut wrench over the lug nut key and, while applying
pressure on the key, install the lug nut.
If the Engine Cranks But Does Not
Start or Does Not Start After a
Collision
The Fuel Pump Shut-off Switch
If the engine cranks but does not start or if you have
had a collision, the fuel pump shut-off switch may
have been triggered. The shut-off switch is a device
that stops the fuel pump when your vehicle has been
involved in a substantial jolt.
For information on how to check and reset the fuel
pump shut-off switch, see Fuel pump shut-off switch
in the Index.
Towing Your Vehicle
If you need to have your vehicle towed, contact a
professional towing service or, if you are a member,
your roadside assistance center. Typical towing
options include wheel lift towing or flat bed towing.
Front towing
Rear towing
When calling for a tow truck, tell the operator what
kind of vehicle you have. A towing manual is
available from Ford Motor Company for 0 authorized
tow truck operators. Have your tow truck driver
refer to this manual for the proper hook-up and
towing procedures for your vehicle.
211
Lincoln RESCU System
(If equipped)
The Lincoln RESCU buttons, located in the
overhead console, should be used in the event that
you require roadside assistance (out of gas, need a
tow, etc.) or emergency assistance (involved in an
accident, report a crime or fire, require medical
attention, etc.).
212
See Lincoln RESCU System in the Features chapter
for more information.
Customer Assistance
If You Have a Service Problem
Ford Motor Company has authorized Ford and
Lincoln-Mercury dealerships that can service your
vehicle for you. This chapter tells you how to get
service or maintenance for your vehicle.
Service/Maintenance Concerns
(U.S. or Canada)
Ford recommends taking your vehicle to your selling
dealer who wants to ensure your continued
satisfaction. You may, however, take your vehicle
to any authorized Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer.
In most cases, your dealer will be able to resolve
your concern.
If you are not satisfied with the service you received
from your dealership's service department, talk to the
service manager at the dealership, or if you still are
not satisfied, talk to the owner or general manager of
the dealership. In most cases, you will have your
concern resolved at this level.
If you are away from home when your vehicle needs
to be serviced, or if you need more help than the
dealer gave you, contact the Ford Customer
Assistance Center to find an authorized dealership
that may be able to help you.
213
Ford Motor Company
Lincoln Customer Assistance Center
300 Renaissance Center
P.O. Box 43360
Detroit, Ml 48243
1-800.521-4140
TDD for the hearing impaired: 1-800-232-5952
If you have any questions or concerns that the
dealership cannot answer, contact the Customer
Assistance Center.
If you still have a service or product complaint, you
may wish to contact the Dispute Settlement Board
(U.S. only) or the Lincoln Centre (in Canada),
214
The Dispute Setdement Board
(U.S. Only)
The Dispute Settlement Board is a voluntary,
independent dispute-settlement program available free
to owners or lessees of qualifying Ford Motor
Company vehicles.
The Dispute Settlement Board may not be available in
all states. Ford Motor Company reserves the right to
change eligibility limitations, modify procedures
and/or to discontinue this process at any time without
notice and without incurring obligations.
What Kind of Cases Does the Board
Review?
The Board reviews all product performance and
service complaints on Ford, Mercury and Lincoln
Cars and Ford and Mercury Light Trucks under
warranty that have not been resolved by a dealer or
Ford Motor Company.
The Board does not review issues involving:
A non-Ford product
A non-Ford dealership
A vehicle sales transaction
A request for reimbursement of consequential
expenses unless incidental to a service or
product complaint being reviewed
Items not covered by your warranty
Alleged liability claims
Property damage where such damage is significant
when compared to the economic loss alleged under
the warranty dispute
Cases currently in litigation
Vehicles not used primarily for personal, family, or
household purposes
NOTE: Complaints involving vehicles on which
applicable express written new vehicle warranties
have expired at receipt of your application are not
eligible. Eligibility may differ according to state law.
For example, see the unique brochure for California
purchasers/lessees.
How Does the Board Work?
The Board has four members:
three consumer representatives
a Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer
Consumer candidates for Board membership are
recruited and trained by an independent consulting
firm. Dealers are chosen because of their business
leadership qualities.
If the involved vehicle is within 36 months and
36,000 miles of the date of delivery (warranty start
date), you have a right to make an oral presentation
before the Board by indicating your choice on the
application. Also, oral presentations may be
requested by the Board. A decision is made by the
Board by simple majority vote.
216
Board members review all the materials related to
each complaint and, based on the available
information, arrive at a fair and impartial decision.
Decisions are based on the written statements and any
oral presentations made by each of the involved
parties.
Because the Board usually meets only once a month,
some cases will take longer than 30 days to be
reviewed. The Board will make every effort to
resolve each case within 40 days after it receives the
customer application form.
After your case has been reviewed, the Board will
mail you its decision in writing. It will also provide
you with a form to indicate your acceptance or
rejection of an award decision. The decisions of the
Board are binding on the dealer and Ford, but
customers may have other options available to them
under state or federal law.
The decisions of the Board, however, may be
introduced into evidence by any party in subsequent
legal proceedings that may be initiated.
How Do You Contact the Board?
Write to the Board at the following address to
request a brochure/apphcation. You will be sent a
brochure and a one-page customer application form.
The form should be completed and mailed to the
same address.
Dispute Settlement Board
P.O. Box 5120
Southfield, MI 48086-5120
What is the Review Process?
Your application will be reviewed and if it is
determined to be eligible, you will receive an
acknowledgment indicating the file number assigned
to your application and the local Board address. At
the same time, your dealer and Ford Motor Company
representative are asked to submit statements.
To review your case properly, the Board needs the
following information:
legible copies of all documents and maintenance
or repair orders that relate to the case
the year, make, model, and vehicle identification
number
the date you bought your vehicle
217
the date of repair and the mileage at the time of
repair
the current mileage
the name of the dealer who sold you the vehicle
or who serviced your vehicle
a brief description of your unresolved complaint
a brief summary of actions that were taken with
the dealer and Ford Motor Company
the names (if known) of all people you contacted
at the dealership
a description of the action you want done to
resolve your concern.
Should your application NOT qualify for review, an
explanation will be mailed to you.
218
Reporting Safety Defects
(U.S. Only)
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which
could cause a crash or could cause injury or death,
you should immediately inform the National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to
notifying Ford Motor Company.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an
investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists
in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and
remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become
involved in individual problems between you, your
dealer, or Ford Motor Company.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto
Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-
0123 in the Washington, D.C. area) or write to:
NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400
Seventh Street, Washington D.C. 20590. You can
also obtain other information about motor vehicle
safety from the Hotline.
Ford of Canada Customer
Assistance
If you live in Canada and have any questions or
concerns that the dealership cannot answer, contact
the Lincoln Centre.
The Lincoln Centre
Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited
P.O. Box 1580, Station B
Mississauga, Ontario L4Y 4G3
1-800-387-9333
Please have the following information available
when contacting the Lincoln Centre:
your telephone number (both business and home)
the name of the dealer and the city where the
dealership is located
the year and make of your vehicle
the date purchased
the current mileage on your vehicle
your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) listed
on your owner card and/or your vehicle ownership
license
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN/Serial
Number)
219
Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan
(CAMVAP)
If a specific item of concern arises, where a solution
cannot be reached between a vehicle owner, Ford of
Canada, and/or one of its dealers (that all parties can
agree upon), the owner may wish to use the services
offered by the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration
Plan (CAMVAP).
CAMVAP uses the services of Provincial
Administrators to assist consumers in scheduling and
preparing for their arbitration hearings. However,
before you can proceed with CAMVAP you must
follow your manufacturer's dispute resolution
process as outlined under "Service/Maintenance
Concerns (U.S. or Canada)" earlier in this chapter.
220
Consumers wishing to obtain further information
about the program can obtain an information booklet
from your dealer or contact the Provincial
Administrator, Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration
Plan, at the address or telephone number shown
below.
0 & P Services
595 Bay Street - Suite 300
Toronto, Ontario
M5G 2C2
Telephone 1 (800) 207-0685
Getting Help Outside the U.S. and
Canada
Before you export your vehicle to a foreign country,
contact the appropriate foreign embassy or consulate
to make sure local regulations do not prevent you
from registering your vehicle. Officials at the
embassy can also help you decide whether you
should import your vehicle to that country.
Officials at the embassy or consulate can tell you
where to get unleaded fuel. If you cannot get
unleaded fuel or can get only fuel with an anti-knock
index that is lower than your vehicle needs, contact
a district or owner relations office before you leave
the U.S. or Canada.
Use of leaded fuel in your vehicle without a proper
conversion may damage the effectiveness of your
emissions control system and may cause engine
knocking or serious engine damage. Ford Motor
Company is not responsible for any damage that is
caused by use of improper fuel.
You may also have difficulty importing your vehicle
back into the U.S. if you use leaded fuel.
If your vehicle must be serviced while you are
traveling or living in Central or South America, the
Caribbean, or the Middle East, contact the nearest
Ford dealership. If the dealership cannot help you,
write to:
Ford Motor Company
Export Operations
1555 Fairlane Business
Park #3
Allen Park, MI 481 ol
U.S.A.
Phone: 313-317-4282
Fax: 313-390-0804
221
If you are in other foreign countries, contact the
nearest Ford dealership. If the dealership cannot
help you, they can direct you to the appropriate
Ford affiliate office.
222
If you buy your vehicle in North America and then
relocate outside of the U.S. or Canada, register your
Vehicle Identification Number and new address with
Ford Motor Company Export Operations.
Accessories
Ford Accessories for Your Vehicle
A wide selection of accessories is available through
your local authorized dealer. These fine accessories
have been engineered specifically to fulfill your
automotive needs. They are custom designed to
complement the style and aerodynamic appearance
of your Ford-built vehicle. In addition, each
accessory is made from high quality materials and
meets or exceeds Ford's rigid engineering and safety
specifications. That is why Ford brand accessories
are warranted for up to 3 years or 36,000 miles
(60,000 km), whichever comes first. See your
dealer for complete warranty information and
accessory availability.
Ford has many fine products available from your
dealer to clean your vehicle and protect its finishes.
For best results, use the following, or products of
equivalent quality:
Ford Custom Clear Coat Polish
Ford Custom Silicone Gloss Polish
Ford Custom Vinyl Protectant
Ford Deluxe Leather and Vinyl Cleaner
Ford Extra Strength Spot and Stain Remover
Ford Extra Strength Tar and Road Oil Remover
Ford Extra Strength Upholstery Cleaner
Ford Extra Strength Whitewall Tire Cleaner
Ford Multi-Purpose Cleaner
Ford Premium Car Wash Concentrate
Ford Triple Clean
Ford Ultra-Clear Spray Glass Cleaner
223
Travel
Heavy-duty battery
Comfort and convenience
Engine block heater
Cargo net
224
Protection and appearance
Carpeted floor mats
Cleaners, waxes and polishes
Styled wheel protector locks
Super Seal undercoating (in U.S. only)
Touch-up paints
Vinyl protectant
Wheel splash guards (flat)
Vehicle security system
NOTE: When adding accessories, equipment,
passengers, and luggage to your vehicle, do not
exceed the total weight capacity of the vehicle or of
the front or rear axle (GVWR, GAWR as shown on
the Safety Compliance Certification Label). Consult
your dealer for specific weight information.
NOTE: The Federal Communications Commission
(FCC) or in Canada the Canadian Radio
Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) regulates
the use of mobile communications systems - such as
two-way radios, telephones, and theft alarms that
are equipped with radio transmitters. Any such
equipment installed in your vehicle should comply
with FCC or in Canada the CRTC regulation and
should be installed only by a qualified technician.
NOTE: Mobile communications systems may harm
the operation of your vehicle, particularly if they are
not properly designed for automotive use or are not
properly installed. For example, when operated, such
systems may cause the engine to stumble or stall. In
addition, such systems may themselves be damaged or
their operation affected by operating your vehicle.
(Citizens band CB transceivers, garage door openers,
and other transmitters whose power output is 5 watts
or less will not ordinarily affect your vehicle's
operation.)
NOTE: Because we have no control over the
installation, design, or manufacture of such systems,
Ford cannot assume responsibility for any adverse
effects or damage that may result if you use this
equipment.
225
1996 Continental Owner Manual Order Form
PUBLICATION
FORM NO.
DESCRIPTION
FCS-12169-96 1996 Continental Service Manual
FCS-12106-96 1996 Powertrain ControVEmission Diagnosis
FCS-12139-96 1996 Car Service Spec. (FWD/RWD)
FCS-12172-96 1996 Continental Electrical &Vacuum Troubleshooting Manual
93-VID-OM Ford and the American Dream (50) minutes of Historic/Nostalgic Videotape
- NOTE: For publications prior to year shown above,write for availability to the address shown below. - Please allow ample time for postal service delivery.
U.S. RESIDENTS
Make checks payable to: HELM, INCORPORATED
MAIL ORDER TO:
HELM, INCORPORATED
P.O. Box 07150
Detroit, Michigan 48207
OR ORDER TOLL FREE:
1-800-782-4356
Monday - Friday 8:00 A.M. - 6:00 PM. EST
For Credit Card Holder Orders Only
CANADIAN RESIDENTS
Make cheques payable to: Ford Motor Company of Canada,
Ltd.
MAIL ORDER TO:
Ford Motor Company of Canada, Ltd.
Service Publications
RO. Box 1580, Station B
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada L4Y 4C3
OR ORDER TOLL FREE:
1-800-387-4966
Monday - Friday 8:30 A.M. - 6:00 PM. ESI
For Credit Card Holder Orders Only
LINCOLN
Registered Key Ring
For that special look of distinction. you have been
provided a pull apart Registered Key Ring. This
Key Ring carries the prestigious Lincoln Star Logo
and is registered on the reverse side to facilitate its
return should it ever become lost.
The Key Ring is located inside the Owner Guide
Portfolio, complete with instructions. Once you fill
out the registration card and mail it to us, we will
keep your name, address and registration number on
file. Should you lose your key ring, all the finder
has to do is drop it in any mail box; we will then
forward it to you.
To order an extra Key Ring, simply fill out the order
form below, or call our toll free number, 1-800-
7350482. Please enclose payment of $15-00
(available in the United States only) for each Key
Ring ordered (checks, money orders and Visa or
MasterCard are accepted; please no cash or CODS).
Michigan residents add 6% Sales Tax. Make
checks Payable to Lincoln Key Ring Headquarters.
Bottom swivels only,
and not removable.
Slide button down to
remove ring
MAIL TO: PLEASE SEND ___KEY RINGS
Lincoln Key Ring at $15.00 Each $_____
Headquarters MI Residents at 6%___
P.O. Box 760546 Total $____
Lathrop Village, MI 49076 Enclosed is my Check for
Allow 2-3 Weeks for delivery.
Bill my VISA MASTERCARD
Credit Card Account Number Expiration Date...
SHIP TO:
NAME
ADDRESS
CITY AND STATE ZIP
SIGNATURE
Servicing Your Continental
Service Made Easy
Ford has two goals for servicing your vehicle.
1. When we can, we design parts that do not
need to be serviced.
2. We want to make servicing your vehicle as
easy as possible. To help you:
We highlight do-it-yourself items in yellow in
the engine compartment so that you can find them
easily.
When possible, we design - such as the
headlamp bulbs-- that can be replaced without
tools.
We give you a Maintenance Schedule that
makes tracking routine service for your vehicle
easy. The maintenance schedule is located in
the Maintenance Schedule and Record booklet.
This chapter tells you about the basic parts that you
need to check and service regularly.
If your vehicle needs professional servicing, your
dealership can provide the parts and service required.
Check your Warranty Information Booklet to find out
which parts and services are covered. Also see the
Customer Assistance chapter of this Owner Guide.
Ford Motor Company recommends that the Owner
Maintenance Checks listed in the Maintenance
Schedule and Record booklet be performed for the
proper operation of your vehicle. In addition to the
conditions listed in the Owner Maintenance Checklist,
be alert for any unusual noise, vibration, or other
indication that your vehicle may need service. If you
do notice something unusual, see that your vehicle is
serviced promptly.
231
Use only recommended fuels, lubricants, fluids,
and service parts conforming to Ford
specifications. Motorcraft parts are designed and
built to provide the best performance in your
vehicle. Using these parts for replacement is your
assurance that Ford-buflt quality stays in your
vehicle.
NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive fluids
in a responsible manner. Follow your community's
standards for disposing of these types of fluids.
Call your local recycling center to find out about
recycling automotive fluids.
Accident Damage
Should your vehicle suffer accident damage
requiring new sheet metal or plastic replacement
parts, be sure your repair shop uses only genuine
Ford replacement parts.
While imitation body parts may appear similar to
genuine Ford parts on the surface, differences in
232
quality become obvious when both are subjected to
standard Ford quality tests.
Ford tests indicate that you should be concerned with
the quality of the fit and finish, corrosion resistance
and structural integrity of these imitation replacement
parts, and how their use will affect your warranty.
How Can You Protect Yourself?.
Before any repair work begins, tell your adjuster that
you want your vehicle repaired using only genuine
Ford body parts. If the adjuster refuses, contact your
insurance agent for help. If your agent and your
insurance company refuse to repair your vehicle with
original factory parts, you should contact your state
insurance commissioner, the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration or a local consumer protection
agency.
In Canada, contact provincial insurance
commissioners, Transport Canada or local consumer
protection groups.
Precautions When Servicing Your
Vehicle
Be especially careful when inspecting or servicing
your vehicle. Here are some general precautions
for your safety:
Do not work on a hot engine. The engine
cooling fan may come on unexpectedly. Always
turn the engine off and let it cool.
/!\ WARNING
The cooling fan is automatic and may come
on at any time. Always disconnect the
negative terminal of the battery before
working near the fan.
If you must work with the engine running,
avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry that
could get caught in moving parts. Take
appropriate precautions with long hair.
Do not work on a vehicle in an enclosed space
with the engine running, unless you are sure you
have enough ventilation.
Never get under a vehicle while it is supported by a
jack only. If you must work under a vehicle, use
safety stands.
Keep all lit cigarettes and other smoking materials
away from the battery and all fuel-related parts.
If you disconnect the battery, the engine must
“relearn" its idle conditions before your vehicle will
drive properly. To find out how the engine does this,
see Battery in this chapter.
Working with the engine off.
1. Set the parking brake fully and make sure that the
gearshift is securely latched in P (Park).
2. Remove the key from the ignition after you turn
the engine off.
233
3. Block the wheels. This will prevent your
vehicle from moving unexpectedly.
Working with the engine on:
1. Set the parking brake fully and make sure that
the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park).
2. Block the wheels. This will prevent your
vehicle from moving unexpectedly.
/!\ WARNING
Do not start your engine with the air
cleaner removed and do not remove it while
the engine is running.
/!\ WARNING
The cooling fan is automatic and may come
on at any time. Always disconnect the
negative terminal of the battery before
working near the fan.
234
If the battery is disconnected' the computer must
releam its idle control. See Battery in the Index.
NOTE: The engine compartment light may be
switched on or off at the light assembly. The light
assembly is located on the hood on the driver's side.
To turn the light on, pull the switch toward you; to
turn it off, push it away from you. The switch may
remain in the on position at all times, as the light will
turn off when the hood is closed.
Opening the Hood
1. Inside the vehicle, pull the hood release handle
located under the bottom left comer of the
instrument panel.
The hood release under the instrument panel
2. Go to the front of the vehicle and release the
auxiliary latch that is located under the hood at the
center of the vehicle.
Auxiliary hood release
The auxiliary latch under the front edge of the
hood
3. Lift the hood until the lift cylinders hold it open.
235
Whenever you close the hood, latch it securely.
NOTE: Apply lubricant to the hood latch at six-
month intervals to maintain smooth and trouble-
free operation.
NOTE: Read and understand Precautions When
Servicing Your Vehicle at the beginning of this
chapter before opening the hood.
236
Engine Compartment
Your vehicle has a 4.6 liter 4V SFI engine. The
following page shows a diagram of where to find
items that you should regularly service.
Engine coolant reservoir Power steering fluid reservoir Windshield washer fluid reservoir Engine oil filler cap Hood safety release High current fuse box Engine oil
dipstick Air filter
Engine compartment service points
237
Filling the Fuel Tank
The fuel filler door cannot be opened from outside
the vehicle. To unlatch the fuel door, push on the
fuel door button located on the driver side door
trim.
The fuel door is on the exterior of passenger side,
near the back of the vehicle. The words FUEL
FILL and an arrow on the instrument cluster remind
you that the fuel door is on that side.
238
Manual override fuel filler door
The fuel door release button
If the fuel door does not open when you push the
release button, open the trunk and find the override
release on the right side. The override release is a
handle which says FUEL FILLER DOOR RELEASE
MANUAL OVERRIDE. Open the fuel door by
pulling on the handle.
Fuel door release - manual override
1. After opening the fuel filler door, remove the
cap carefully and slowly by turning it
counterclockwise 1/2 to 3/4 turn. If a hissing
sound is heard, wait until it stops, then continue
turning until the cap is free.
/!\ WARNING
If the fuel cap is venting vapor or if you hear a
hissing sound, wait until it stops before
completely removing the cap.
2. Make sure that you pump premium unleaded
fuel and put the nozzle all the way inside the fuel
filler pipe.
NOTE: If you spill any fuel on the body of your
vehicle, clean it off immediately. The fuel may
dull or soften the paint if you do not wash it off.
3. Replace the fuel cap completely when you are
finished. Turn it clockwise 1/4 turn until it is
tight. It will click when it is fully tightened.
4. Push the fuel door closed.
239
/!\ WARNING
If you do not use the proper fuel cap, the
pressure in the fuel tank can damage the fuel
system or cause it to work improperly in a
collision.
NOTE: If you replace your fuel cap with an
aftermarket fuel filler cap, the customer warranty
may be void for any damage to the fuel tank and/or
fuel system.
Choosing the Right Fuel
Use only PREMIUM UNLEADED FUEL in your
vehicle. Using leaded fuel is prohibited by federal
law. Your warranty may not apply if your vehicle is
damaged because you used the wrong fuel.
Octane recommendations
The 4.6L engine is designed to operate on
premium fuel with an octane rating of 91 or
higher. Regular fuel with an octane rating of 87
240
may be used if necessary. For optimum
performance, premium fuel is recommended.
Typical octane rating label
In some parts of the country, "premium" grade fuels
are sold with octane ratings of less than 91,
especially in high altitude areas. It is recommended
that you use only those "premium" fuels with an
octane rating of 91 or higher.
Do not be concerned if your vehicle sometimes
knocks lightly when you drive up a hill or when you
accelerate. However, see your dealer or a qualified
service technician if persistent, heavy knocking
occurs because this can damage the engine.
If you are experiencing starting, rough idle or
hesitation problems when the engine is cold, it may
be caused by fuel with low volatility. Try a different
brand of fuel. If the condition persists, see your
dealer or a qualified service technician.
Gasolines for clean air
Fuels in certain areas of the country are required to
contain oxygenates to improve air quality.
Common oxygenates are ethanol or grain alcohol
(blended at no more than 10%), methanol or wood
alcohol (blended at no more than 5% with
cosolvents and additives), and MTBE or methyl
tertiary butyl ether (blended at no more than 15%).
Generally, you should not experience difficulties
operating your vehicle on fuels containing
oxygenates. We encourage you to use these fuels.
Safety Information Relating to Automotive
Fuels
/!\ WARNING
Automotive fuels can cause serious injury or
death if misused or mishandled.
Turn vehicle off when refueling.
Do not smoke when refueling. Fuels are
extremely flammable.
Do not siphon any fuel by mouth.
/!\ WARNING
Gasoline or gasoline blended with methanol
can cause blindness and possible death when
swallowed. If any fuel is swallowed, call
physician or poison control center
immediately.
241
Avoid breathing vapors while refueling.
If fuel is splashed on the skin, wash with soap
and water.
If fuel is splashed in the eyes, remove contact
lenses (if worn), flush with water for 15 minutes,
and seek medical attention.
Gasoline and gasoline blends may contain small
amounts of carcinogens, such as benzene. Long-
term exposure to unleaded gasoline vapors has
caused cancer in laboratory animals.
if you are taking the medication "Antabuse" or
other forms of disulfiram for the treatment of
alcoholism, vapor or skin contact with a gasoline-
methanol blend, may cause the same kind of adverse
reaction as drinking an alcoholic beverage. In
sensitive individuals, serious personal injury or
sickness could result. Consult a physician promptly
if you experience an adverse reaction.
242
Running Out of Fuel
NOTE: Avoid running out of fuel because this
situation may have an adverse effect on modern
powertrain components.
You may need to crank the engine several times
before the fuel system starts to pump fuel from the
tank to the engine.
If the engine does not start, check the fuel pump
shut-off switch and reset as required. See Fuel pump
shut-off switch in the Index.
/!\ WARNING
Never pour fuel in the throttle body or
attempt to start the engine with the air
cleaner removed. Doing so could result in
fire and personal injury.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is an estimate of the efficiency of
your vehicle and can be calculated as Miles Per
Gallon (MPG) or liters Per 100 Kilometers (L/
100K).
Do not calculate fuel economy during your vehicle's
break-in period. This would not be an accurate
estimate of how much fuel your vehicle will
normally use.
To calculate fuel economy:
I . Fill the tank completely and record the initial
odometer reading.
2. Every time you buy fuel record the amount (in
gallons or liters) purchased.
3. After at least three to five tankfuls, fill the fuel
tank and record the final odometer reading.
4. Use these equations to calculate your fuel
economy.
English: MPG = (total miles)/(gallons used).
Metric: L/100K = (liters used) x 100/(total
kilometers)
Comparisons With EPA Fuel Economy
Estimates
EPA fuel economy figures are obtained from
laboratory tests under simulated road conditions and
may not reflect the actual conditions you experience
or your style of driving. The EPA fuel economy
estimate is not a guarantee that you will achieve the
fuel economy shown.
The following decrease fuel economy:
Lack of regular, scheduled maintenance
Rapid acceleration and excessive speed
Driving with your foot on the brake
Sudden stops
Extended engine idling
243
Using speed control in hilly terrain
Extended use of the A/C, defroster, rear window
defroster and other accessories
Underinflated tires
Heavy loads
Aftermarket add-ons such as bike, ski or luggage
racks, bug deflectors, etc.
Self-Service Pointers
If you choose to do your own fueling, you should
also perform a few simple maintenance routines.
This extra effort will save you additional money and
contribute to the driving efficiency of your vehicle.
The following procedures require only a tire gauge,
a rag, an oil can spout and windshield washer fluid.
Check the engine oil at every refueling stop
Clean the windshield, outside mirrors and
headlights
244
Check windshield washer fluid
Check tires for excessive wear or worn edges
Check the tire pressure at least monthly
Engine Oil Recommendations
We recommend using Motorcraft oil or an equivalent
oil meeting Ford Specification ESE-M2C153-E and
displaying the American Petroleum Institute
CERTIFICATION MARK on the front of the
container.
The API Certification Mark
Never use:
"Non-Detergent" oils
Oils labeled API SA, SB, SC, SD, SE, SF or
SG
Additional engine oil additives, oil treatments
or engine treatments
Engine oils with an SAE 5W-30 viscosity are
PREFERRED for your vehicle. They provide the
best engine performance, fuel economy and engine
protection for all climates down to -15°F (-25°C).
Synthetic engine oils which are CERTIFIED and of
the preferred viscosity may be used in your engine.
The engine oil and oil filter must still be changed
according to the maintenance schedule.
Checking and Adding Engine Oil
Since the proper amount of engine oil is important
for safe engine operation, check the oil using the
dipstick each time you put fuel in your vehicle.
Remember the engine must be off, the oil must be
warm and the vehicle must be parked on level
ground.
Checking the engine oil level:
1. Turn the engine off after it has warmed up and
allow a few minutes for the engine oil to drain
back into the oil pan.
245
2. Set the parking brake, making sure the gearshift
is securely latched in P (Park).
3. Open the hood. Protect yourself from engine
heat.
4. Locate the engine oil dipstick (highlighted in
yellow) and carefully pull it out of the engine.
5. Wipe the dipstick clean and put it back into
position, making sure it is fully seated.
Engine oil dipstick
246
6. Carefully, pull the dipstick out again. If the oil
level is below the "ADD 1 QT" line, add engine
oil as necessary. If the oil level is beyond the
letter "F" in Full, engine damage or high oil
consumption may occur and some oil must be
removed from the engine.
7. Put the dipstick back in and make sure it is fully
seated.
It may be necessary to add some oil between oil
changes. Make sure you use a CERTIFIED engine
oil of the preferred viscosity. Your vehicle's
warranty coverage may not apply if engine damage is
caused by the use of improper engine oil.
Add engine oil through the oil filler cap highlighted
in yellow. To add oil, remove the filler cap and use a
funnel to pour oil into the opening. Be careful not to
overfill the engine. Recheck the oil level after you
finish adding oil.
Changing the Engine Oil and the Oil
Filter
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule and Record
booklet for recommended intervals.
/!\ WARNING
Continuous contact with USED motor oil
has caused cancer in laboratory mice.
Protect your skin by washing with soap and water.
Engine Coolant
Checking the Engine Coolant
NOTE: Be sure to read and understand
Precautions Men Servicing Your Vehicle at the
beginning of this chapter.
/!\ WARNING
The cooling fan is automatic and may come
on at any time. Always disconnect the
negative terminal of the battery before
working near the fan.
Cold fill level
The engine coolant reservoir
247
Your vehicle's coolant protects your engine from
overheating in the summer and from freezing in the
winter. Check the level of the coolant at least once
a month. Simply look at the engine coolant
reservoir located in the engine compartment. To
locate the reservoir, see the diagram of your
vehicle's engine under Engine Type, in this chapter.
Check the engine coolant level in the engine coolant
reservoir at least once a month using the following
guidelines.
When your vehicle's engine is cool, the coolant level
in the engine coolant reservoir should be at the top
of the clear portion of the reservoir. If the level is
below the cold fill level, coolant may need to be
added.
The coolant additives also protect the entire cooling
system from internal passageway corrosion and
these additives lubricate the water pump. The
coolant should be serviced as noted in the
Maintenance Schedule and Record booklet.
248
Adding engine coolant
/!\ WARNING
Do not put engine coolant in the container
for the windshield washer fluid.
If sprayed to clean the glass, engine coolant or
antifreeze could make it difficult to see through the
windshield.
/!\ WARNING
Never remove the pressure cap while the
engine is running or hot. Follow these steps
to avoid personal injury that can be caused
by escaping steam or engine coolant.
1. Before you remove the cap, turn the engine off
and let it cool. Even when the engine is cool, be
careful when you remove the pressure cap.
2. When the engine is cool, wrap a thick cloth
around the cap and turn it slowly counter-
clockwise to relieve pressure.
3. Step back while the pressure releases.
4. When you are sure that all the pressure has
been released, use the cloth to turn and remove
cap.
5. Stand away from the reservoir opening. Hot
steam may blow out or hot engine coolant may
even splash out.
/!\ WARNING
Failure to follow these instructions could
result in serious personal injury from hot
engine coolant or steam blowout and/or
damage to the engine cooling system or
engine.
To find out how much engine coolant mixture your
vehicle's coolant system can hold, see Refill
capacities for fluids in the Index.
Add engine coolant only to the coolant reservoir.
If the coolant level is low, add to the reservoir a
50/50 or appropriate mixture of water and the type
of engine coolant that Ford specifies. You may add
water by itself only in an emergency, but you should
replace it with a 50/50 mixture as soon as possible.
Check the engine coolant again the next few times
you drive your vehicle.
Have your dealer check the engine cooling system
for leaks if you have to add more than a quart (liter)
of engine coolant more than once a month.
Ford Premium Cooling System Fluid is an optimized
formula that will protect all metals and rubber
elastomers used in Ford engines for four years or
50,000 miles (80,000 km). It is not necessary and
not recommended to use supplemental coolant
additives in your vehicle. These additives may harm
249
your engine cooling system. Follow the
recommended service interval for changing your
engine coolant.
NOTE: When you change or add engine coolant, it
is important to maintain your engine coolant
concentration between 40% (-11°F [-24°C]) and
60% (-62°F [-52°C]), depending on your local
climate conditions. Below 40% you will lose freeze
protection; above 60% your engine may overheat
on a warm day.
NOTE: Less than 40% of coolant concentration
may cause engine corrosion and overheating. Plain
water may be used in an emergency only. Replace
it with the specified coolant as quickly as possible.
NOTE: The use of an improper coolant may void
your warranty for the engine cooling system. Use
only a premium, nationally recognized brand name
engine coolant. Do not use alcohol, methanol
antifreeze or engine coolant mixed with alcohol or
methanol antifreeze. If you do not use the proper
250
coolant, the aluminum engine on your vehicle will
corrode.
Ford Motor Company expressly authorizes the Ford
Rotunda engine coolant recycling process and
chemicals. Use only Ford Rotunda recycled engine
coolant or an equivalent recycled engine coolant that
is certified by the supplier to meet Ford specification
ESE-M97B44-A.
NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive fluids
in a responsible manner. Follow your community's
standards for disposing of these types of fluids. Call
your local recycling center to find out about
recycling automotive fluids.
Use Ford Premium Cooling System Fluid E2FZ-
19549-AA (in Canada, Motorcraft CXC-8-B) or an
equivalent engine coolant that meets Ford
Specification ESE-M97B44-A.
Engine coolant drain and flush
Proper procedures for a complete coolant drain and
flush of the cooling system can be found in the Car
Service Manual. Following these recommended
procedures will ensure that the specified coolant
level and a 50/50 or appropriate mixture of coolant
and water is maintained.
Engine coolant refill procedure
When the entire cooling system is drained and
refilled, the following procedure should be used to
ensure a complete fill:
NOTE: It is imperative the following procedure
be adhered to. Failure to do so could result in
damage to your engine.
Remove coolant reservoir pressure cap.
Remove the engine coolant outlet tube fill plug
on the engine.
With the engine off and cool, add a 50/50 mixture
of recommended cooling system fluid and water
to the coolant outlet tube fill neck until the
reservoir is full.
NOTE: DO NOT FILL COOLANT SYSTEM
THROUGH COOLANT RESERVOIR. COOLANT
WILL NOT ENTER ENGINE, WHICH CAN
LEAD TO ENGINE DAMAGE.
NOTE: Avoid spilling coolant on the front end
accessory drive belt, as this will allow the belt to slip
and become noisy.
Reinstall the pressure cap to the coolant
reservoir.
Continue filling at the engine coolant tube fill
neck slowly while allowing air to escape.
Reinstall the engine coolant tube fill plug when
the system is full.
251
Select maximum heater temperature and fan
speed settings. Position control to discharge air
at A/C vents in instrument panel.
Start engine and allow to idle. While engine is
idling, feel for hot air at A/C vents.
NOTE: IF AIR DISCHARGE REMAINS COOL
AND ENGINE TEMPERATURE GAUGE DOES
NOT MOVE, SHUT ENGINE OFF
IMMEDIATELY. This is an indication of low
coolant level and/or air pockets in coolant system.
Allow engine to cool and repeat the previous steps.
Allow to idle until normal operating temperature
is reached. Hot air should discharge from A/C
vents. The engine temperature gauge should
maintain a stabilized reading in the middle of the
"NORMAL" range and the lower radiator hose
should feel hot to the touch.
Shut off the engine and allow to cool down.
252
After the engine cools down, recheck the engine
coolant level. Fill reservoir to the COLD-FULL
level as required.
Check for leaks at the draincock, block plug and
vent plug.
Recheck the engine coolant level, using the
recommended procedure, after one or two
occasions of vehicle use. Fill to COLD-FULL
level as required.
Battery
Your vehicle may have a Motorcraft maintenance-
free battery. When the original equipment battery is
replaced under warranty it may be replaced by a low-
maintenance battery. See Motorcraft Parts at the
end of this chapter for the proper replacement
battery.
The low-maintenance battery has removable vent
caps for checking the electrolyte level and adding
water. The electrolyte level should be checked at
least every 24 months or 24,000 miles (40,000 km)
in temperatures up to 90'F (32'C) and more often in
temperatures above 90'F (32'C). Keep the
electrolyte level in each cell up to the level
indicator. Do not overfill.
If the level gets low, refill the battery with distilled
water. If necessary, you can add tap water to the
battery, provided the water is not hard or does not
have a high mineral or alkali content. If the battery
needs water quite often, have the charging system
checked for a possible malfunction.
Help Us Protect Our Environment
Ford Motor Company strongly recommends that
used lead-acid batteries be returned to an authorized
recycling facility for disposal.
Battery recycling symbol
Because your vehicle's engine is electronically
controlled by a computer, some control conditions
are maintained by power from the battery. If you
ever disconnect the battery or install a new battery,
you must allow the computer to "relearn" its idle
conditions before your vehicle will drive properly.
To let the engine do this, put the gearshift in P
(Park), turn off all the accessories, and start the
vehicle. Let the engine idle for at least one minute.
(Engine must be warm in order to "learn.") Also,
allow approximately 10 miles (16 km) of stop and go
traffic for your vehicle's engine to completely
girelearn" its idle.
253
If you do not let the engine relearn its idle, the idle
quality of your vehicle may be adversely affected
until the idle is relearned. Your vehicle will
eventually relearn its idle while you drive it, but it
takes much longer than if you use the previous
procedure.
Windshield Washer Fluid and
Wipers
Washer Fluid
Check the level of the windshield washer fluid every
time you stop for fuel. The reservoir for washer
fluid is located on the passenger's side of the engine
compartment. Visual inspection can determine if
the washer fluid is adequate. Do not operate the
washer when the reservoir is empty.
254
Washer reservoir
The reservoir for the windshield washer fluid
/!\WARNING
Do not put windshield washer fluid in the
container for the engine coolant.
Use specially formulated windshield washer fluid
rather than plain water, because specially
formulated washer fluids contain additives that
dissolve road grime. For safety reasons, washer
fluids containing an appropriate antifreeze such
as methanol should be used in freezing weather
(temperatures below 32°F [0°C]). State or local
regulations on Volatile Organic Compounds
(VOC's) may restrict use of the most common
antifreeze, methanol. Washer fluids containing non-
methanol antifreeze agents should be used only if
they provide cold weather protection without
damaging the vehicle's paint finish, wiper blades,
and windshield washer system.
Wiper Blades
Check the windshield wiper blades at least twice a
year. Also check them whenever they seem less
effective than usual. Substances such as tree sap
and some hot wax treatments used by commercial
car washes reduce the effectiveness of wiper blades.
If the blades do not wipe properly, clean both the
windshield and the wiper blades. Use undiluted
windshield washer solution or a mild detergent.
Rinse thoroughly with clear water. Do not use fuel,
kerosene, paint thinner, or other solvents to clean
your wiper blades. These will damage your blades.
To make reaching the wiper blades easy, simply turn
the ignition to the ACC position and turn your
wipers on. Wait for them to reach a vertical position
and turn the ignition to the OFF position. Do not
move the wipers manually. Manually moving the
wipers across the windshield may damage them.
Wiper blade replacement
If the wiper blades still do not work properly after
you clean them, you may need to replace the wiper
blade assembly or the blade element. When replacing
the wiper blade assembly, blade refill, or wiper arm
always use a Motorcraft part or equivalent. To
replace the blades, follow the instructions that come
with them.
Tires
Look at your tires each time you fill your fuel tank.
If one tire looks lower than the others, check the
pressure in all of them. Always follow these
precautions:
255
Keep your tires inflated to the recommended
pressures.
Stay within the recommended load limits (see
Load limits in the Index).
Make sure the weight of your load is evenly
distributed.
If you do not take these precautions, your tires may
fail or go flat.
Ford Motor Company recommends obeying posted
speed limits.
/!\ WARNING
Driving too fast for conditions creates the
possibility of loss of vehicle control. Driving
at very high speeds for extended periods of
time may result in damage to vehicle
components.
256
At least once a month, check the pressure in all your
vehicle's tires, including the spare. Use an accurate
tire pressure gauge. Check the tire pressure when
tires are cold, after the vehicle has been parked for at
least one hour or has been driven less than 3 miles (5
km). You can find proper cold pressure and load
limits of recommended size tires on the Safety
Compliance Certification Label.
/!\ WARNING
Improperly inflated tires can affect vehicle
handling and can fail suddenly, possibly
resulting in loss of vehicle control.
Tire Rotation
Because your vehicle's front and rear tires perform
different jobs, they often wear differently. To make
sure your tires wear evenly and last longer, rotate
them as indicated in the following diagram.
Do not include the spare tire as part of your
rotation.
For tire rotation intervals, see the Maintenance
Schedule. If you notice that the tires wear
unevenly, have them checked.
Rotating the tires
Replacing the Tires
Replace any tires that show wear bands. When your
tire shows a wear band, it has only I/ 1 6 inch (2 mm)
of tread left.
A worn-out tire Wear Band
Because your vehicle's tires may wear unevenly, you
may need to replace them before a wear band
appears across the entire tread. Some spots wear
more heavily than others.
257
/!\ WARNING
When replacing full size tires, never mix
radial, bias-belted, or bias-type tires. Use only
the tire sizes that are listed on the tire
pressure decal. Make sure that all tires are
the same size, speed rating, and load-carrying
capacity. Use only the tire combinations
recommended on the decal. If you do not
follow these precautions, your vehicle may not
drive properly and safely.
Tires that are larger or smaller than your vehicle's
original tires may also affect the accuracy of your
speedometer.
258
Information About Tire Quality Grades
New vehicles are fitted with tires that have their Tire
Quality Grade (described below) molded into the
tire's sidewall. These Tire Quality Grades are
determined by standards that the United States
Department of Transportation has set.
Tire Quality Grades apply to new pneumatic tires for
use on passenger cars. They do not apply to deep
tread, winter-type snow tires, space-saver or
temporary use spare tires, tires with nominal rim
diameters of 10 to 12 inches or limited production
tires as defined in Title 49 Code of Federal
Regulations Part 575.104(c)(2).
U.S. Department of Transportation - Tire quality
grades: The U.S. Department of Transportation
requires Ford to give you the following information
about tire grades exactly as the government has
written it.
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based
on the wear rate of the tire when tested under
controlled conditions on a specified government test
course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear
one and one-half (1 1/2) times as well on the
government course as a tire graded 100. The
relative performance of tires depends upon the
actual conditions of their use, however, and may
depart significantly from the norm due to variations
in driving habits, service practices and differences in
road characteristics and climate.
Traction A B C
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are A, B,
and C, and they represent the tire's ability to stop on
wet pavement as measured under controlled
conditions on specified government test surfaces of
asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have
poor traction performance. Warning: The traction
grade assigned to this tire is based on braking
(straightahead) traction tests and does not include
cornering (turning) traction.
Temperature A B C
The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and
C, representing the tire's resistance to the generation
of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested
under controlled conditions on a specified indoor
laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature
can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and
reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead
to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a
level of performance which all passenger car tires
must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety
Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher
levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel
than the minimum required by law. Warning: The
temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire
that is properly inflated and not overloaded.
Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive
259
loading, either separately or in combination, can
cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.
Snow tires
The tires on your vehicle have all-weather treads
that provide traction in rain or snow. However,
during the winter months in some climates, you may
need to use snow tires.
Use of tire chains is not recommended. The use of
tire chains could result in damage to your vehicle.
/!\ WARNING
Snow tires must be the same size and grade
as the tires you Currently have on your
vehicle.
Cleaning the Wheels
Wash the wheels with the same detergent you use
to wash your vehicle's body. Do not use acid-based
wheel cleaners, steel wool, abrasives, fuel, or strong
260
detergents. These substances will damage protective
coatings. Use tar and road oil remover to remove
grease and tar.
NOTE: Before going to a car wash, find out if the
brushes are abrasive.
If you have whitewall tires that are difficult to clean
with regular detergent, use whitewall tire cleaner.
Follow the directions on the container and rinse the
tires with plenty of clean water.
Securitires (If equipped)
Securitires are designed to allow you to continue
driving your Continental a limited number of miles
when one of your vehicle's tires is at low or even
zero air pressure.
/!\ WARNING
Do not use aerosol tire inflator/sealer with
Securitires. Doing so may damage the tire's
pressure sensor.
See Securitires in the Features chapter for more
information.
Automatic Transaxle Fluid
Under normal circumstances, you do not need to
check the fluid level of the transaxle, since your
vehicle does not use up transaxle fluid. Refer to the
Maintenance Schedule and Record booklet for
replacement intervals. However, if the transaxle is
not working properly - for instance, the transaxle
may slip or shift slowly, or you may notice some
sign of fluid leakage - the fluid level should be
checked.
NOTE: If the vehicle has been operated for an
extended period at high speeds or in city traffic
during hot weather, or pulling a trailer, the vehicle
should be turned off for about 30 minutes to allow
the fluid to cool before checking.
Checking the Automatic Transaxle Fluid
With the vehicle on a level surface and the brake fully
applied, start the engine and move the gear shift
selector through all of the gears allowing sufficient
time for each position to engage. Securely latch the
gear shift selector in the P (Park) position. Fully set
the parking brake and leave the engine running.
Wipe off the dipstick cap and pull the dipstick out.
Wipe the indicator end clean. Put the dipstick back
into the filler tube and make sure it is fully seated.
Pull the dipstick out and read the fluid level.
NOTE: Your vehicle should not be driven until
some fluid has been added if the fluid level is below
the bottom dimple on the dipstick and the outside
temperature is above 50°F (10°C). Add only enough
fluid to bring the level above the bottom hole.
261
If the vehicle has not been driven and the fluid level
is above the bottom dimple on the dipstick, do not
add fluid. Recheck the fluid level after your vehicle
has reached normal operating temperature.
Normal operating temperature is reached after
driving approximately 20 miles (30 km). The fluid
level should be within the crosshatched area on the
dipstick.
NOTE: If the vehicle has been operated for an
extended period at high speeds, driven in city traffic
during hot weather, or has been pulling a trailer, the
vehicle should be turned off for about 30 minutes to
allow the fluid to cool before checking.
Adding Automatic Transaxle Fluid
Before adding any fluid, be sure that the correct
type will be used. Correct type is shown on the
dipstick.
Add fluid in 1/2 pint (.25L) increments through the
filler tube to bring the level to the correct area on
262
the dipstick. DO NOT OVERFILL. If the level is
above the top hole on the dipstick, excess fluid
should be removed by a qualified technician.
NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive fluids
in a responsible manner. Follow your community's
standards for disposing of these types of fluids. Call
your local recycling center to,find out about
recycling automotive fluids.
Automatic over transaxle fluid dipstick
Brake Fluid
Under normal circumstances, your vehicle should
not use up brake fluid rapidly. However, expect the
level of the brake fluid to slowly fall as you put
more mileage on your vehicle and the brake lining
wears.
You should check the brake fluid at every scheduled
engine oil change, but be sure to check it at least
once a year. You can do this by looking at the fluid
level in the plastic reservoir on the master cylinder.
(See The Engine Type in this chapter to locate the
master cylinder.) The fluid level should be at or near
the MAX mark.
/!\ WARNING
Brake fluid is toxic.
If brake fluid contacts eyes, flush eyes with running
water for 15 minutes. Get medical attention if
irritation persists. If taken internally, drink water and
induce vomiting. Get medical attention immediately.
If the fluid is low, carefully clean and remove the cap
from the reservoir. Fill the reservoir to the MAX
line with Ford High Performance DOT 3 Brake Fluid
C6AZ-19542-AA, C6AZ-19542-BA, or equivalent
DOT 3 fluid meeting Ford specification ESA-
M6C25-A.
/!\ WARNING
If you use a brake fluid that is not DOT 3, you
will cause permanent damage to your brakes.
Do not fill the reservoir above the MAX line.
If you find that the fluid level is excessively low
below the seam or ridge on the outside of the plastic
reservoir - have the brake system inspected.
263
/!\ WARNING
Do not let the reservoir for the master
cylinder run dry. This may cause the brakes
to fail.
The brake fluid reservoir
264
Power Steering Fluid
Check the level of the power steering fluid at least
twice a year (i.e., every Spring and Fall).
Checking and Adding Power Steering
Fluid
1. Start the engine and let it run until the power
steering fluid reaches normal operating
temperature. The power steering fluid will be at
the right temperature when the engine coolant
temperature gauge in the instrument cluster is
near the center of the NORMAL operating
temperature range.
2. While the engine idles, turn the steering wheel
back and forth several times. Make sure that the
cap assembly is installed at this time.
3. Turn the engine off and check the level on the
power steering reservoir.
4. The fluid level is viewed through the sight
window on the power steering reservoir. If the
power steering fluid is below the middle line,
add fluid in small amounts, continuously
checking the level. Do not overfill.
The power steering fluid reservoir
265
Use only MERCON ATF power steering fluid.
If the power steering fluid is low, do not drive your
vehicle for a long period of time before adding fluid.
This can damage the power steering pump.
Fuses
Fuses (conventional and high current) protect your
vehicle's electrical system from overloading. If
electrical parts in your vehicle are not working, the
system may have been overloaded and blown a fuse.
Before you replace or repair any electrical parts,
check the appropriate fuses (conventional and high
current).
266
The following charts tell you which fuses protect
each electrical part of your vehicle. If a fuse blows,
all the parts of your vehicle that use that circuit will
not work.
Once you have determined which fuses to check,
follow the procedures under Checking and replacing
fuses in this chapter.
The instrument panel fuse panel location
Emergency
brake pedal Squeeze here to remove fuse panel
cover
267
The instrument panel fuse panel
268
The Instrument Panel Fuses
Fuse
Location
Fuse Amp
Rating
Description
1 10A n And-theft indicator light
n PWM dimming output for
microphone illumination,
ashtray illumination (R & L
rear door),heated seat
switches, heated backlight
switch, EATC control panel,
message center switches, cigar
lighter, console shift
illumination, navigation
display module, and
navigation switches
2 10A n Luxury radio
n Clock (non-navigational)
n Cellular phone
3 10A n Multi-function switch
4 10A n Run/Accessory sensor
(luxury radio)
n Cellular phone
n Run/Accessory sensor
(LCM)
n Window switches
backlight RF, LR, RR) *
n Compass
Fuse
Location
Fuse Amp
Rating
Description
4 (cont.) 10A
• E/C mirror
• Stand alone clock
• Door lock switches backlight
5 10A
• Virtual image cluster
• Light sensor (Autolamp)
• Traction Assist OFF switch
• Airbag diagnostic
• Luxury radio FCU
• Run/Start sensor (LCM)
6 5A
• SCP network
7 15A
• Right front turn lamp
• Right turn indicator
• HI beam switch
• Right and left front side
marker lamps
• Right and left front park
lamps
• Right and left front tail
lamps
• Right rear stop/turn lamps
8 30A
• Fuel filler
• Trunk solenoid
• Navigation system power
269
Fuse
Location
Fuse Amp
Rating
Description
9 10A
• Blower motor relay coil
• EATC control
• Airbag diagnostic
10 30A
• Windshield wiper motor
• Windshield wiper control
module (washer pump motor)
11 10A
• PCM power relay coil
• Ignition coil
12 5A
• SCP network
13 15A
• Stand alone clock
illumination
• Right and left rear side
marker lamps
• License lamps
• Right and left tail lamps
(on decklid)
• Left rear stop/turn lamps
• Left turn indicator
• Left front turn lamp
14 15A
• Front cigar lighter
270
Fuse
Location
Fuse Amp
Rating
Description
15 10A
• Navigation display
• Navigation module
• Heated seat control switches
16 30A
• power moonroof switch
• Moonroof motor
17 (Not used)
18 5A
• SCP network
19 10A
• LH low beam
20 10A
• Multi-function switch (Flash
to pass and hazard signal to
LCM)
• LH & RH cornering lamps
21 10
• ABS control module
22 (Not used)
23 (Not used)
24 5A
• SCP network
25
• RH low beam
26 10A
• Instrument cluster power
• EATC power
27 (Not used)
Fuse
Location
Fuse Amp
Rating
Description
28 10A
• Shift interlock
• VDM logic power
• Instrument cluster logic power
• Rear defrost control
29 10A
• Luxury RCU station signal
• Navigation module signal
30 10A
• Heated mirror right
• Heated mirror left
31 15A
• Voltage dimming for FCU
and stand alone clock
• Courtesy lamps in the doors
Rear reading lamps
• Map lamps
• RH & LH I/P courtesy lamps
• Engine compartment lamp
• Visor lamps
• Storage bin lamp (5 passenger
only)
• Luggage compartment lamp
• Glove box lamp
32 15A
• Speed control brake deact
switch
• Stop lamp switch
Fuse
Location
Fuse Amp
Rating
Description
33 (Not used)
34 15A
• Back-up L & R lamp ext.
• DRL module (Canada only)
• EATC clutch
• Speed control logic
• IMRC
35 20A
• L & R heated seat module power
36 (Not used)
37 (Not used)
38 10A
• OBD 11 scan tool connection
39 10A
• DSM logic power
• DDM logic power
• Door lock switches
• Keyless keypad switch
• Memory set switch
• Driver seat switch
• Power mirror switch
40 10A
• Blend door actuator
• LTPS
41 20A
• Door locks (DDM)
271
High Current Fuses
High current fuses are circuit protectors that are
part of the wiring harness for some electrical
equipment. These, like fuses, open when the
circuit load exceeds their amperage rating. High
current fuses may be purchased from your Ford or
Lincoln-Mercury dealer.
The high current fuse panel is located in the engine
compartment on the left-hand fender apron.
/!\ WARNING
Always disconnect the battery before
servicing high current fuses.
Ford recommends that high current fuses be
replaced by a qualified technician.
272
The high current fuse panel location
The underside of the high current fuse panel cover
273
Fuse
Location
Maxi-Fuse
Amp
Rating
Description Fuse
Location
Maxi-Fuse
Amp Rating
Description
1
2
3
40A
60A
60A
• EATC blower motor
• Engine cooling fans
• Air suspension compressor relay
13 30A
• DSM
• Heated seats
• Driver 4-way power
lumbar seats
4 60A
• ABS module
• EVAC and fill
14 30A
• Passenger power seat
• Passenger 4-way power
5 60A
• Fuse panel to LCM
• OBD 11
15 30A
• Luxury radio
• Sub woofer amplifier
• CD player
6 60A
• Fuse panel to LCM CD player
16 20A
• HI beam
7 30A
• VDM
17 20A
• Horn
8 40A
• Heated mirrors
• Heated backlight
18 10A
• Air bags
9 40A
• DDM
• LH power windows
• Door locks
19 Not used
10 40A
• RH power windows
20 10A
• PCM KAPWR
11 40A
• Ignition switch to fuse panel
21 10A
• Alternator sensor
• Alternator field supply
12 40A
• Ignition switch to fuse panel
274
Fuse
Location
Maxi-Fuse
Amp Rating
Description
22 Not used
23 Relay
• HI beam headlamps relay
24 20A
• Fuel pump
25 20A
• Thermactor pump
26 Relay
• EATC blower motor relay
27 30A
• PCM
• STC
28 Not used
29 Relay
• Horns relay
30 Relay
• Powertrain control module
relay
Checking and Replacing Fuses
If you need to check a fuse, follow these steps:
1. Find the fuse panel underneath the instrument
panel to the left of the steering column.
Squeeze together the two areas indicated by
the arrows and pull down to remove the
cover.
2. Find the fuse you want to check (fuses are
numbered on the fuse panel) and remove it
with the fuse pulling tool that is provided.
3. Check the fuse to see if it is blown. Look
through the clear side of the fuse to see if the
metal wire inside is separated. If it is, the fuse
should be replaced.
275
The side view of a Blade type fuse
The side view of a high current fjuse
276
4. Replace the fuse with one that has the right
amperage rating. (See the following charts.)
Instrument Panel
Fuse Color
Amperage
Tan 5A
Red 10A
Blue 15A
Yellow 20A
Green 30A
High Current Fuse
Color
Amperage
Yellow 20A
Green 30A
Orange 40A
Blue 60A
/!\ WARNING
Always replace a fuse with one that has the
specified amperage rating. Using a fuse with
a higher amperage rating can cause severe
wire damage and could start a fire.
5. Align the edge of the cover with the edge of
the fuse panel and push the cover up until it
latches.
Even after you replace a fuse, it will continue to
blow if you do not find what caused the overload.
If the fuse continues to blow, have your electrical
system checked.
Lights and Bulb Replacement
It is a good idea to check the operation of the
following lights ftequently:
headlamps
high-mount brakelamp
tail lamps
brakelamps
hazard flasher
turn signals
side markers
license plate lamp
The alignment of your headlamps should be
checked if:
oncoming motorists frequently signal you to
turn off your vehicle's high beams when you do
not have the high beams on
the headlamps do not seem to give you enough
light to see clearly at night
277
the headlamp beams are pointed substantially
away from a position slightly down and to the
right
Headlamp Bulb
The headlamps on your vehicle use replaceable
bulbs. When the lamp bums out, simply replace
the bulb, rather than the whole lamp.
/!\ WARNING
Handle a halogen headlamp bulb carefully
and keep out of children's reach. Grasp the
bulb only by its plastic base and do not
touch the glass. The oil from your hand
could cause the bulb to break the next time
the headlamps are operated.
278
Removing the headlamp bulb
Do not remove the burned-out bulb unless you can
immediately replace it with a new one. If a bulb is
removed for an extended period of time,
contaminants may enter the headlamp housing and
affect its performance.
Rear face of bulb socket Reflector Flat side of plastic base bulb retaining ring
Parts of a headlamp
Electrical connector Lock Unlock
1. Make sure that the headlamp switch is in the
OFF position.
2. Lift the hood and remove the plastic sight
shield covering the back of the headlamps by
lifting up on the rear corners to release the
velcro attachments. Lift the shield and pull
towards the windshield.
3. At the back of the headlamp, pull up on the
two right angle brackets to release the
headlamp assembly from the vehicle.
4. Carefully pull the headlamp assembly away
from the vehicle to expose the back of the
bulb and wiring connector.
5. Remove the electrical connector from the bulb
by grasping the wire with a quick pull
rearward.
6. Remove the retaining ring by turning it 1/8 of
a turn to free it from the socket. Then slide
the ring off the plastic base of the bad bulb.
Keep the ring. You must use it again to hold
the new bulb in place.
7. Carefully remove the bulb assembly from its
socket by gently pulling it rearward without
turning.
Installing the headlamp bulb
1. With the flat side of the bulb's plastic base
facing upward, insert the glass end of the bulb
into the socket. You may need to turn the
bulb left or right to line up the grooves in the
plastic base with the tabs in the socket. When
the grooves are aligned, push the bulb into the
socket until the plastic base contacts the rear
of the socket.
279
2. Slip the bulb retaining ring over the plastic base
until it contacts the rear of the socket. Lock the
ring into the socket by rotating it clockwise
until you feel a "stop".
3. Push the electrical connector into the rear of
the plastic base until it snaps, locking it into
position
4. Carefully position the headlamp assembly onto
the vehicle making sure the alignment pins are
inserted into the proper holes
5. Hold the headlamp assembly snugly against the
vehicle and push down on the right angle
brackets to lock the lamp into position.
6. Install the plastic sight shield.
7. Turn the headlamps on and make sure that they
work properly. If the headlamp was correctly
aligned before you changed the bulb, you
should not need to align it again..
280
Aiming Headlamps
Your vehicle is equipped with a Vehicle Headlamp
Aim Device (VHAD) on each headlamp body.
Each headlamp may be properly aimed in the
horizontal direction (left/right) and the vertical
position (up/down).
NOTE: A non-zero bubble reading does not
necessarily indicate out-of-aim headlamps. If your
vehicle is not positioned on a level surface, the
slope will be included in the level indicator.
Therefore, vertical headlamp adjustment should be
Tools required: One 4mm socket and ratchet.
The Horizontal aim must be adjusted first.
NOTE: The following procedure assumes that
the vehicle's front structure is in factory alignment
condition. If the vehicle has been in an accident
requiring the front end of the vehicle to be
repaired, the horizontal indicator should be
recalibrated by the servicing facility.
Before adjusting your headlamps, you must make
sure that the air suspension has been adjusted to
the proper ride height. In order to do this:
1. Position the vehicle on a level surface.
2. Make sure the air suspension switch in the
luggage compartment is in the ON position.
3. Turn the ignition key to the ON position.
4. Open and close the driver's door to allow the
air suspension to fully level.
Hori
zontal adjusting screw Vertical adjusting screw Horizontal indicator Bubble vial
281
Horizontal aim adjustment
1. Open the hood and lift the front end cover
from its velcro attachments. Locate the
horizontal level indicator and adjustment
screw.
2. Use a 4mm socket and ratchet to turn the
horizontal adjusting screw until the horizontal
indicator is in line with the "0" reference.
282
Vertical aim adjustment
NOTE: The numbers shown on the vial indicate
beam direction in degrees up or down.
1. Locate the vertical level indicator and adjustment
screw.
2. Use a 4mm socket and ratchet to turn the vertical
adjustment screw until the bubble in the
horizontal level indicator is centered in the vial.
3. Replace the front end cover and close the hood.
Bulb specifications
Function Trade number
Exterior illumination
Backup lamp 3156
Cornering lamp 3156
Headlamp 9007
High-mount brakelamp 912
License plate lamp 168
Luggage compartment lamp 912
Side marker - front lamp 916NA*
Side marker - rear lamp 194
Turn signal and park lamp - front 3457NA*
Turn signal, stoplamp and tail lamp
- rear
3157
Redundant turn - rear 3157
Decklid reflector 168
Instrument panel lights
Electronic automatic temperature
control
***
Air bag readiness light 37
Anti-lock warning lamp 37
And-theft warning lamp 37
Ash receptacle 1445
Ash ttay - rear doors 37
Clock ***
Function Tradenumber
Instrument panel lights (continued)
Cluster illumination ***
Cluster control button 37
Compact disc player **
Glove compartment 194
Headlamp switch nomenclature 37
Message center control buttons ***
“PRN@D I" bulb (floor console) 194
Rear window defrost switch
nomenclature 37
Radio **
Warning lights (cluster) 37
Interior courtesy lamps
Cigar lighter (door mounted) 1893
Door mounted lamp (front and rear) 214-2
Illuminated visor mirror (passenger) 74
Overhead console-reading lamps (without
moon roof)
211-2
Passenger assist handle (rear seat) 211-2
Under instrument panel 906
*NA means Natural Amber.
**Refer bulb replacement to a Ford -authorized radio service
center.
***Refer bulb replacement to a Ford or Lincoln-Mercury
dealer.
283
Emission Control System
Your vehicle is equipped with three (3) catalytic
converters which are used to enable your vehicle to
comply with applicable exhaust emissions
requirements.
/!\ WARNING
Exhaust leaks may result in the entry of
harmful and potentially lethal fumes into the
passenger compartment. Under extreme
conditions excessive exhaust temperatures
could damage the fuel system, the interior
floor covering, or other vehicle components,
possibly causing a fire.
To make sure that the catalytic converters and the
other emissions control parts continue to work
properly:
Use only premium unleaded fuel.
284
Avoid running out of fuel.
Do not turn off the ignition while your vehicle is
moving, especially at high speeds.
Do not push start your vehicle.
Have the services listed in the Maintenance
Schedule and Record booklet performed according
to the specified schedule. The scheduled
maintenance services are required because they are
considered essential to the life and performance of
your vehicle and to its emissions system.
In general, maintenance, replacement, or service of
the emissions control devices or systems in your new
Ford Motor Company vehicle or engine may be
performed at your expense by any automotive repair
establishment or individual using automotive parts
equivalent to those which your vehicle or engine was
originally equipped.
Ford strongly recommends the use of genuine Ford
replacement parts. If other than Ford or
Motorcraft parts or Ford authorized
remanufactured parts are used for maintenance
replacements or for the service of components
affecting emission control, such non-Ford parts
should be equivalent to genuine Ford Motor
Company parts in performance and durability. It is
the owner's responsibility to determine the
equivalency of such parts. Please consult your
warranty booklet for complete warranty
information.
/!\ WARNING
Do not park, idle, or drive your vehicle in dry
grass or other dry ground cover. The
emission system heats up the engine
compartment and exhaust system, which can
start a fire.
Watch for fluid leaks, strange odors, smoke, loss
of oil pressure, the charge warning light, the check
engine light, or the temperature warning light. These
sometimes indicate that the emission system is not
working properly.
Do not make any unauthorized changes to your
vehicle or engine. Changes that cause more unburned
fuel to reach the exhaust system can increase the
temperature of the engine or exhaust system.
By law, anyone who manufactures, repairs, services,
sells, leases, trades vehicles, or supervises a fleet of
vehicles is not permitted to intentionally remove an
emission control device or prevent it from working.
In some of the United States and in Canada, vehicle
owners may be liable if their emission control device
is removed or is prevented from working.
Do not drive your vehicle if it does not operate
properly. See your dealer if the engine runs on for
more than five seconds after you shut it off or if it
misfires, surges, stalls, or backfires.
285
Information about your vehicle's emission control
system is on the Vehicle Emission Control
Information decal located on or near the engine.
This decal identifies engine displacement and gives
some tune-up specifications.
Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance
Testing
In some localities it may become a legal requirement
to pass an Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) test of the
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) II system. If the
vehicle's powertrain system or its battery has just
been serviced, the OBD II system is reset to a not
ready for I/M testing condition. To prepare for I/M
testing, the law specifies a "need for additional
mixed city and highway driving to complete the
check" of the OBD II system. As soon as all of the
OBD II system checks are successfully completed,
the OBD II system is set to the ready condition. The
amount of driving required to reach the ready
condition varies with individual driving patterns. To
complete this requirement in the
minimum amount of time, refer to the OBD II Drive
Cycle defined below. If the vehicle owner cannot or
does not want to do the additional driving required by
law, a service center can perform this drive cycle as it
would any other type of repair work.
OBD II Drive Cycle
The following steps must be run in the order shown.
If steps 2 through 9 are interrupted, repeat the
preceeding step. Any safe driving mode is acceptable
between steps.
Always drive vehicle in a safe manner according to
traffic conditions and obey all traffic laws.
1. Start engine and drive until engine has reached
normal operating temperature.
2. Idle vehicle for at least 80 seconds, then
accelerate at part throttle to near 45 mph (72 km/h).
286
3. Drive to accumulate at least four (4) minutes
in the range of 30-45 mph (50-70 km/h). If
stop and go conditions occur, the
accumulative time must be within the 30-45
mph (50-70 km/h) range. No wide open
throttle conditions should be encountered.
4. Cruise and maintain a select speed in the range
of 30-40 mph (48-64 km/h) on a level road
with throttle held very steady for at least one
(1) minute.
5. Decelerate and idle for at least 80 seconds.
6. Accelerate to 55 mph (90 km/h) at ½ throttle.
7. Decelerate at closed throttle for I 0 seconds.
8. Cruise and maintain a select speed in the range
of 40-65 mph (64-105 km/h) on a level road
with throttle held very steady for at least 80
seconds.
9. Complete 10 minutes of city driving 25-40 mph
(40-64 kin/h) with at least six (6) stops.
10. OBD II drive cycle has been completed.
Vehicle can be turned off when convenient.
Refill Capacities, Motorcraft Parts,
and Lubricant Specifications
Refill Capacities
Component U.S. Metric
Cooling system
(including heater)
14.25 qts. 13.5 liters
Engine oil
(with filter change)
6.0 qts. 5.7 liters
Transaxle
Auto. overdrive
13.7 qts. 13.0 liters
Power steering
2.5 pints 1.2 liters
Fuel tank
17.8 gallons 67.4 liters
Pressure cap
16 psi I 10 kPa
287
Motorcraft Parts
If you replace
these parts ...
Use the Motorcraft Service
Part with this part number
• spark plug*
AWSF-32EE**
• air filter
FA-1615
• fuel filter
FG-800A
• oil filter
FL-820
• battery
standard BXT-65-850
*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.
Cylinders #1, #2, 43, #4 have a EG suffix.
Cylinders #5, #6, #7, #8 have a E suffix.
If a spark plug needs to be replaced, use only spark plugs
with the I service number suffix letter "FE" as shown on the
engine decal.
288
Lubricant Specifications
Item Ford Part No. Part Name Ford Specification
Brake Master Cylinder C6AZ-19542-AA Ford High Performance DOT 3
Brake Fluid
ESA-M6C25-A
Hinges, Door Latch, Hood
Latch Auxiliary Latch,
Trunk and Liftgate Latches
DOAZ-19584-AA Multi-Purpose Grease Spray ESB-MIC93-B
Lock Cylinders E8AZ-19A501-B Ford Penetrating Lubricant N/A
Transaxle, Automatic XT-2-QDX
Motorcraft MERCON Auto.
Trans. Fluid
MERCON
Constant Velocity Joints
Outboard and Inboard
E43Z-19590-A CV Joint Grease - High Temp. ESP-MIC207-A
Engine Coolant E2FZ-19549-AA Ford Premium Cooling System
Fluid
ESE-M97B44-A
Power Steering (Pump
Reservoir)
XT-2-QDX Motorcraft Auto Trans. & Power
Steering MERCON ATF
MERCONATF
Engine Oil XO-5W30-QSP Motorcraft 5W30 Super
Premium
ESE-M2C I 53-E and API Certification
Mark
Door Weatherstrips COAZ-19553-AA Silicone Lubricant ESR-Ml3P4-A
289
NOTE: Rear axle lube quantities must be
replaced every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or if
the axle has been submerged in water. Otherwise,
the lube should not be checked or changed unless a
leak is suspected or repair required.
Vehicle Storage
Maintenance Tips
If you plan on storing your vehicle for an extended
period of time (60 days or more), refer to the
following maintenance recommendations to ensure
your vehicle stays in good operating condition.
General
Store all vehicles in a dry, ventilated place.
Protect from sunlight, if possible.
If vehicles are stored outside, they require
regular maintenance to protect against rust
and damage.
290
Body
Wash vehicle thoroughly to remove dirt, grease,
oil, tar or mud from exterior surfaces, rear
wheel housing and underside of front fenders.
Periodically wash vehicles stored in exposed
locations.
Touch-up raw or primed metal to prevent rust.
Cover chrome and stainless steel parts with a
thick coat of auto wax to prevent discoloration.
Re-wax as necessary when the vehicle is
washed.
Lubricate all hood, door and trunk lid hinges
and latches with a light grade oil.
Cover interior soft trim to prevent fading.
Keep all rubber parts free from oil and solvents.
Engine
Start engine every 15 days. Run at fast idle
until it reaches normal operating temperature.
With your foot on the brake, shift through all
the gears while the engine is running.
Fuel system
Fill fuel tank with high-quahty, premium
unleaded fuel until the first automatic shutoff of
the fuel pump nozzle.
NOTE: During extended periods of vehicle
storage (60 days or more), fuel may deteriorate
due to oxidation. This can damage rubber and
other polymers in the fuel system and may also
clog small orifices.
Ford Gas Stabilizer should be added whenever
actual or expected storage periods exceed 60 days.
Follow the instructions on the label. The vehicle
should then be operated at idle speed to circulate
the additive throughout the fuel system.
A volatile corrosion inhibitor added to the fuel
system will protect the fuel system's inner surfaces
from corrosion. Follow the instructions packaged
with the product.
Cooling system
Protect against freezing temperatures.
291
Battery
Check and recharge as necessary.
Keep connections clean and covered with a light
coat of grease.
If storing your vehicle for more than 30 days
without recharging the battery, disconnect the
battery cables to ensure battery charge is
maintained for quick starting. NOTE: If battery
cables are disconnected, it will be necessary to
reset any memory features (eg. radio presets).
Brakes
Make sure brakes and parking brake are fully
released.
292
Tires
Maintain recommended air pressures.
Miscellaneous
Make sure all linkages, cables, levers and
clevis pins under vehicle are covered with grease to
prevent rust.
Move vehicles at least 25 feet (8 m) every 15
days to lubricate working parts and prevent
corrosion.
labels Air Bag warning Child Seat Label Child seat installation precautions Fuel Pump Shut-Off Safety Compliance Certification Label manufacturer, GVWR*
GAWR** Vehicle Identification Servicing or warranty Information Number Child Proof Lock Gross Vehicle
Weight Rating **Gross Axle Weight Rating
297
Engine compartment/ Servicing Windshield wipers Headlamp bulbs and Daytime Running Lights Hood latch Turn signal bulbs Parking lamp bulbs
Cornering lamp bulbs Moon roof Keyless entry Side view mirrors Tires
299
Trunk Taillamp bulbs Backup lamp bulbs Brakelamp bulbs Turn signal bulbs High-mount brakelamp bulbs Fuel door
Doors
300
Turn signals Windshield wiper Fuse panel Hood release Parking brake Gearshift- Automatic transmission Seats Speed control Head restraints
301
Remote fuel door release Seat controls Remote trunk release Side mirror controls Memory profile buttons power locks window controls
302
Lights Traction control Tilt steering Driver-side air bag Lights Traction Cluster Electronic sound system Tilt steering Rear window/ side mirror
Driver-side defroster air bag Message center buttons Clock Climate control system Passenger-side air bag
303
Brake warning indicator Engine oil pressure light Traction control active light Charging system warning light Fuel gauge ANTI
THEFT active light Service engine soon warning light Engine coolant temperature gauge Safety belt light Turn signal indicator lights High beam light
Air bag readiness light Speedometer Tachometer Anti-theft active light Anti-lock brake warning indicator Message center Odometer
304
Fuel pump shutoff switch Air suspension shutoff switch Spare tire Cargo storage system Fuel door manual release
305
Engine coolant reservoir Power steering fluid reservoir Windshield washer fluid reservoir Automatic transaxlefluid dipstick Brake master cylinder
Engine oil filler cap Hood safety release Engine oil dipstick High current fuse box Battery
306
Index
A Air conditioning, electronic automatic
ABS warning light........................................ temperature control system ..................71
(see Anti-lock brake system)..................53 Air suspension
Accessory position on the ignition............41 air leveling disabled warning, message
Accident damage.................................... 232 center ................................................62
Additives, engine oil............................... 245 description.......................................186
Air bag supplemental restraint system........... Alarm, activating remote personal.........106
description...........................................17 Alcohol, in fuel.....................................241
disposal ...............................................25 Antenna, radio
indicator light ......................................59 (see Electronic sound system)........165
operation............................................. 20 Antifreeze (see Engine coolant)......247
proper seating......................................19 Anti-lock brake system (ABS).................
tone generator .....................................24 description.....................................187
wearing safety belts .............................18 noise..............................................187
Air cleaner filter ........................................... warning light ...................................53
location ............................................. 237 Anti-theft lug nuts and key ...................209
specifications..................................... 288
307
Anti-theft system........................................ B..............................
arming the system............................109 Backing up .............................................182
description.......................................108 Basic vehicle warranty ................................5
disarming an untriggered system......110 Battery .........................................................
disarming a triggered system............111 acid, treating emergencies ..................200
triggering.........................................111 battery saver ......................................108
warning light......................................59 charging system warning light ..............55
Assistance (see Customer assistance)....213 disconnecting.....................................253
Audio system ............................................. how to service....................................252
(see Electronic sound system) ............159 jumping a disabled battery..................199
Automatic transaxle.................................... maintenance-free................................252
fluid, adding.....................................262 proper disposal, recycling...................253
fluid, checking.................................261 replacement, specifications.................288
fluid, refill capacities........................287 when storing your vehicle...................292
fluid, specification............................289 Brake fluid
.............................................................. brake warning light...............................52
.............................................................. checking and adding...........................263
.............................................................. description.........................................263
.............................................................. specifications......................................289
.............................................................. Brakes..........................................................
.............................................................. adjustment..............................................187
.............................................................. anti-lock.............................................187
308
applying the brakes.........................187
brake warning light...........................52
fluid, checking and adding ..............263
fluid, refill capacities.......................287
fluid, specifications.........................289
new brake linings................................6
noise...............................................188
parking...........................................188
trailer .............................................197
when storing your vehicle...............292
Brake-shift interlock.............................180
Break-in period........................................6
Bulbs, replacing....................................277
headlamps........................................278
C
Canada, customer assistance.................219
Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan
(CAMVAP).......................................220
Capacities for refilling fluids.................287
Carbon monoxide in exhaust...................49
Car seats for children
(see Child safety seats).........................27
Catalytic converter 284
CD player (see Electronic sound system) . 169
Chains, tires 260
Changing a tire 204
Charging system warning light 55
Childproof locks 99
Child safety restraints 25
child safety belts 38
child safety seats 27
Child safety seats
attaching with tether straps 38
tether anchorage hardware 38
Chime
headlamps on 58
key in ignition 42
safety belt 52
Cleaning your vehicle
chrome and aluminum parts 8
exterior 7
exterior lamps 83
fabric 118
headlamps 83
309
Cleaning your vehicle (continued)............... Console, description ...............................133
instrument panel ................................69 Controls, mirrors ....................................127
mirrors .....................................126,127 Coolant (see Engine coolant)........................
plastic parts .........................................8 checking and adding...........................247
polishing..............................................7 drain and flush....................................251
rustproofing.........................................8 preparing for storage..........................291
safety belts.........................................17 refill capacities ...................................287
tail lamps...........................................83 specifications......................................289
upholstery and interior trim..............118 temperature gauge................................66
washing...............................................7 Cooling fan.............................................233
wheels.............................................260 D..................................
Climate control system............................... Dashboard (see Instrument panel).............69
air conditioning..................................71 Daytime running light system....................81
electronic automatic temperature........... Defrost, windshield...................................78
control ............................................71 Dipstick........................................................
heating...............................................71 engine oil ...........................................246
Clock.....................................................87 power steering fluid............................264
Cold engine starting ...............................44 Dispute Settlement Board.......................214
Compact disc player (see Electronic ........... Doors.......................................................99
sound system)....................................169 lubricant specifications.......................289
Compass ..............................................139 ................................................................
310
Driving under special conditions Emission control system
bad weather 191 catalytic converter................................ 284
heavy load 192 emissions warranty............................... 284
high water 192 Engine
slippery roads 191 does not start.................................... 45
towing a trailer 194 fuel injected engine, starting.............. 43
fuel pump shut-off switch.................. 47
E preparing to start .............................. 43
Electrical system refill capacities.................................. 287
fuses 275 service points.................................... 237
operating when the engine is off 41 starting ............................................. 44
Electronic sound system starting after a collision..................... 47
accessory delay 165 storing your vehicle........................... 291
antenna 165 Engine block heater.................................. 46
radio reception 176 Engine coolant
tuning the radio.......................................161 checking and adding ................ 247
warranty and service information.............178 disposal 232, 250, 262
Emergencies, roadside......................................................... drain and flush......................... 251
battery acid spills...................................199 preparing for storage ............... 291
jump-starting 199................ refill capacities......................... 287
towing 211................ refill procedure ........................ 251
Emergency brake (parking brake).................188 specifications........................... 289
311
Engine coolant temperature gauge,. Fluid refill capacities.............................287
description.............................. 66 Ford Dispute Settlement Board ............214
Engine fan...................................... 233 Ford Extended Service Plan......................6
Engine oil....................................... Ford Motor Company of Canada..........219
"break-in" oils............................ 6 Ford of Canada Customer...........................
changing oil and oil filter............ 247 Assistance Centre...............................219
checking and adding .................. 245 Foreign registration ..............................221
dipstick...................................... 246 French owner guides, how to obtain .........3
disposal 232, 250, 262. Fuel............................................................
engine oil pressure warning light 54 calculating fuel economy..................243
filter, specifications.................... 288 capacity ...........................................287
refill capacities........................... 28- choosing the right fuel......................240
specifications............................. 289 comparisons with EPA fuel economy.....
synthetic oil............................... 245 estimates .......................................243
viscosity .................................... 245 filling your vehicle with fuel.............238
Exhaust fumes................................ 49 filter, specifications..........................288
Extended Service Plan, Ford........... 6 fuel gauge..........................................67
F.................... running out of fuel ...........................242
Flashers, hazard.............................. 92 safety information relating to..................
Flashing the lights........................... 90 automotive fuels............................241
Flat tire .......................................... 204 storing your vehicle..........................291
...................................................... treating emergencies ........................241
312
Fuel cap ............................................... odometer .........................................65
removing ..........................................238 speedometer.....................................66
replacing...........................................239 tachometer.......................................66
Fuel filter, specifications...............................288 GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)
Fuel gauge ...........................................67 calculating......................................193
Fuel pump shut-off switch, starting after a.......... definition........................................192
collision.................................................. 47 location.................................192
Fuse panels ............................................... Gearshift
engine compartment..........................272 column-mounted ...................................181
instrument panel ...............................267 positions .............................................179
Fuses ............................................... shift-lock .............................................180
charts ....................................269 GVVVR (Gross Vehicle Weight
Rating)
checking and replacing......................275 calculating.............................193
G .............. definition .............................................192
Gas cap (see Fuel cap)..................................238 location .............................................192
Gas mileage (see Fuel economy)...................243 H
Gasohol . .........................................241 Hazard flashers........................................92
Gasoline (see Fuel).......................................238 Headlamps
Gauges, Mechanical ........................................... aiming.......................................277,280
engine coolant temperature gauge.......66 autolamp system ...............................83
fuel gauge ......................................67 checking alignment.......................... 277
313
Headlamps (continued)................................. I.............................
cleaning............................................... 83 Idle.............................................................
daytime running lights.......................... 81 relearning.........................................253
flashing................................................90 speed.................................................45
high beam............................................90 Ignition ......................................................
replacing bulbs................................... 277 chime.................................................42
turning on and off................................ 82 positions of the ignition......................41
warning chime .....................................58 removing the key ...............................42
Head restraints....................................... 114 Infant seats (see Safety seats) .................27
Heated mirrors....................................... 127 Instrument panel, location of components .70
Heating........................................................ Interval wipers........................................91
electronic automatic temperature............. ..................................................................
control system...................................71 J.............................
High beams, indicator light.......................58 Jack, operation.....................................207
Hood............................................................ Jump-starting your vehicle..........................
latch location...............................234,235 attaching cables................................201
lubrication specifications.................... 289 disconnecting cables.........................203
release lever....................................... 234 K...............................
working under the hood..................... 233 Keyless entry system...................................
Horn ........................................................93 locking and unlocking doors ............102
.................................................................... programming entry code..................103
314
Keys............................................................. charging system...............................55
key in ignition chime............................ 42 engine oil pressure...........................54
positions of the ignition........................41 high beam........................................58
removing from the ignition...................42 oil pressure......................................54
stuck in lock position........................... 42 safety belt........................................52
L ................................. service engine soon..........................56
Lamps.......................................................... turn signal indicator.........................56
autolamp delay system......................... 83 Load limits
checking............................................ 277 GAWR ............................................192
................................................................ GVVVR..........................................192
daytime running light system................81 trailer towing...................................194
flashing the lamps ................................90 Lubricant specifications........................289
hazard flashers..................................... 92 Luggage compartment..........................135
headlamps............................................ 82 Lug nuts, anti-theft...............................209
high beams...........................................90
replacing bulbs................................... 277 .......................... M
trailer................................................. 197 Maintenance (see Servicing).................231
Lane change indicator (see Turn signal)....89 Map pockets.........................................134
Lights, warning and indicator ....................... Methanol in fuel ...................................241
air bag................................................. 59 Mileage, calculating fuel economy ........243
anti-theft..............................................59 Mirrors
brake...................................................52 automatic dimming rearview mirror..125
315
Mirrors (continued)........ P
heated........................ 127 Panic alarm feature, remote entry................
rearview .................... 125 system................................................106
Moon roof...................... 113 Parking brake.............................................
Motorcraft parts............. 288 operation.........................................188
......................................N warning light......................................52
National Highway Traffic. Safety Parts (see Motorcraft Parts)..................288
Administration............... 218 Phone, cellular........................................88
...................................... Power features ...........................................
....................................0 moon roof........................................113
Odometer, description.... 65 seats ................................................115
Oil filter ......................... 289 windows..........................................111
Oil (see Engine oil)......... 244 Power steering ...........................................
Oil viscosity ................... 245 driving with power steering..............185
On-board diagnostic (OBD II) system ....286 fluid, checking and adding ................264
Overdrive............................................... 183 fluid, refill capacity...........................287
.................................................................... fluid, specifications...........................289
.................................................................... Pressure alert system........................142
316
R
Radio (see Electronic sound systems)...159
Rearview mirror...................................125
Refill capacities for fluids .....................287
Remote entry system
arming and disarming the anti-theft
system...........................................106
locking/unlocking doors...................105
opening the trunk.............................106
panic alarm......................................106
replacement/additional transmitters..107
replacing the batteries......................106
RESCU system ....................................144
Restraints, safety (see Safety restraints)
adult....................................................9
child ..................................................25
head ................................................114
infant.................................................25
Roadside emergencies ..........................199
Rotating the tires..................................256
S
Safe driving tips....................................190
Safety belts (see Safety restraints)............ 9
Safety chains, when towing a trailer......196
Safety Compliance Certification Label ..192
Safety defects, reporting.......................218
Safety information relating to automotive
fuels................................................241
Safety restraints
adjusting the safety belts................12,16
cleaning the safety belts.....................17
extension assembly............................16
for children.......................................25
for infants .........................................25
lap and shoulder belts........................11
maintenance......................................17
replacement ......................................17
warning light and chime ....................52
Safety seats for children
and air bags...................................19,27
attaching with tether straps.................38
317
Seats.......................................................... removing the spare tire.......................205
adjusting the seats, power................115 temporary spare .................................204
child safety seats................................27 Spark plugs, specifications......................288
head restraints .................................114 Specification chart, lubricants .................289
Securitire .............................................141 Speed control ...............................................
Service concerns ..................................213 accelerating..........................................97
Servicing your vehicle, precautions when.... canceling a set speed............................98
servicing ............................................233 resetting...............................................97
Shift-lock system..................................180 resuming a set speed ............................98
Shift positions (see Gearshift)...............181 turning off............................................98
Shoulder and lap belts ................................ when towing a trailer..........................198
(see Safety restraints)...........................11 Speedometer.............................................66
Side mirrors ............................................... Starting your vehicle.....................................
adjusting..........................................126 preparing to start your vehicle..............43
heated . . .........................127 starting a cold engine ...........................44
Sliding moon roof (see Moon roof) ......113 starting after a collision........................47
Snow tires and chains...........................260 starting a warm engine .........................45
Spare tire ................................................... Steering, power ......................................185
changing the tire..............................206 Steering wheel..............................................
finding the spare ..............................205 horn.....................................................93
.............................................................. tilting...................................................94
318
Storage compartments
center console..................................133
map pockets ....................................134
Storing your vehicle .............................290
Sun visor..............................................128
Supplemental air bag readiness light .......59
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)....17
T
Tachometer........................................... 66
Tail lamps, cleaning............................... 83
Tether anchor installation
(see Child restraints) ........................... 38
Tilt steering wheel................................. 94
Tires
changing...........................................204
checking the pressure................. 255,256
cleaning............................................260
replacing...........................................257
rotating.............................................256
snow tires and chains........................260
storing your vehicle.......................292
tire grades .....................................258
treadwear...............................257,259
wear bands....................................257
Towing a trailer (see Trailer towing).....194
Towing your vehicle.............................211
Trailer towing
calculating maximum trailer weight ..194
safety chains.....................................196
tips...................................................198
trailer brakes....................................197
trailer lamps.....................................197
Transaxle
fluid, checking and adding
(automatic) . .................................261
fluid, refill capacities ........................287
lubricant specifications.....................289
Trunk, using the remote entry
system to open ...................................106
319
Tune-up specifications (VECI)............. 285 W.......................................
Turn signal................................................. Warm engine, starting...............................45
indicator lights................................... 56 Warning chimes............................................
lever..................................................89 headlamps on.......................................58
............................................................. key in ignition......................................42
u................................ safety belt............................................52
Used engine oil, disposal.........232,250,262 Warranties, radio....................................178
Universal transmitter.... 130 Warranty Information Booklet....................5
.................................... Washer fluid
....................................V reservoir ............................................254
Variable interval wipers91 windshield 254
VECI (Vehicle Emission Control ................. Weight limits (GAWR, GVVVR).........192
Information) decal ................................286 Wheels
Vehicle loading............................................ anti-theft lugnuts .............................209
automatic transaxles...........................193 cleaning...........................................260
calculating the load.............................193 inspection and maintenance..............255
Vehicle storage.......................................290 Windows..............................................111
Ventilating your vehicle ............................... power windows, operating...............111
(see Climate control) ..............................77
Viscosity (see Engine oil)........................245
Visor (see Sun visor)...............................128
320
Windshield washer fluid and wipers
checking and adding fluid.....................254
checking and replacing wiper blades . . 255
operation...............................................90
reservoir..............................................254
321
Service Station Information
Engine
4.6 Liter 4 Valve SFI (Sequential Fuel Injection) 8 Cylinder
Fuel
PREMIUM FUEL ONLY- Octane 91 or higher
Fuel Tank Capacity
17.8 gallons (68.1 Liters)
Tire Size
Refer to the Tire Pressure Decal
Tire Pressure
Front- 30 PSI, Rear- 28 PSI (measured cold)- Tire pressure decal on the front
face of the passenger’s door jamb.
Hood Release
Pull handle under left side of dash.
Engine Oil
Use only engine oil displaying the American Petroleum Institute Certification
Mark- 5W30 preferred
Engine Oil Capacity
6.0 quarts (5.7 Liters).
Automatic
Transmission
Motorcraft MERCON (ATF),
Transaxle Capacity
13.7 quarts (13.0 Liters).
Power Steering Fluid
Use only power steering fluid that meets Ford Specification Motorcraft
MERCON ATF
Engine Coolant
Capacity
14.25 quarts (13.5 Liters).
322
