Ford Tracer 1998 User Manual

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Contents

Before driving

Introduction 2

Instrumentation 3

Controls and features 15

Seating and safety restraints 45

Starting and driving

Starting 77

Driving 85

Roadside emergencies 103

Servicing

Maintenance and care 118

Capacities and specifications 171

Reporting safety defects 177

Index 178

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.

Copyrightr1997 Ford Motor Company

Elemental Chlorine Free

Introduction

ICONS

Indicates a warning. Read the following section on Warnings for a full explanation.

Indicates vehicle information related to recycling and other environmental concerns will follow.

Correct vehicle usage and the authorized disposal of waste cleaning and lubrication materials are significant steps towards protecting the environment.

WARNINGS

Warnings provide information which may reduce the risk of personal injury and prevent possible damage to others, your vehicle and its equipment.

BREAKING-IN YOUR VEHICLE

There are no particular breaking-in rules for your vehicle. During the first 1 600 km (1 000 miles) of driving, vary speeds frequently. This is necessary to give the moving parts a chance to break in.

If possible, you should avoid full use of the brakes for the first 1 600 km (1 000 miles).

INFORMATION ABOUT THIS GUIDE

The information found in this guide was in effect at the time of printing. Ford may change the contents without notice and without incurring obligation.

Instrumentation

Foglamp control *

(pg. 26)

Headlamp/turn

signal control

(pg. 24)

MIRROR L

FUEL FILL

LOW FUEL

Instrument cluster

(pg. 6)

60 70

100

000113

120

THEFT

140

160

100

RPMx1000

Power side view

mirrors

(pg. 15)

Instrument panel

dimmer switch

(pg. 15)

Speed control

(pg. 26)

Driver side air

bag

(pg. 57)

Windshield

wiper/washer control

(pg. 32)

MIST

OFF

Instrumentation

Passenger side air

bag

(pg. 57)

SEEK

TRACK

TUNE DISCS

AM FM

SCAN

VOL PUSH ON

PREMIUM SOUND

23456

SIDE 1-2

Climate controls

(pg. 16)

TAPE

BASS

REW

DOLBYB NR

COMP

SHUF

A/C

MAX A/C

TREB

BAL

FADE

OFF

R.DEF

Electronic sound

system; refer to

Audio Guide

(pg. 16)

Instrumentation

WARNING LIGHTS AND CHIMES Base instrument cluster

MPH km/h

MPH

km/h

FUEL FILL

SERVICE ENGINE

LOW FUEL

SOON

BRAKE

ABS

Sport instrument cluster

BRAKE

ABS

LOW FUEL

FUEL FILL

SERVICE ENGINE

SOON

100

0000000

0 0 0

100

0000000

0 0 0

120

140

100

160

110

180

200

120

140

100

160

110

180

200

120

THEFT

RPMx1000

THEFT

CHECK

+–

COOLANT

7 8

CHECK

+–

COOLANT

Low fuel

Illuminates when the fuel tank has approximately eight liters (two gallons) remaining. The lamp will also illuminate when the ignition key is turned to ON and the engine is off.

Service engine soon

Your vehicle is equipped with a computer that monitors the engine’s emission control system. This system is commonly known as the On Board Diagnostics System

LOW

FUEL

SERVICE

ENGINE

SOON

(OBD II). This OBD II system protects the environment by ensuring that your vehicle continues to meet government emission standards. The OBD II system also assists the service technician in properly servicing your vehicle.

The Service Engine Soon indicator light illuminates when the ignition is first turned to the ON position to check the bulb. If it comes on after the engine is started, one of the engine’s emission control systems may be malfunctioning. The light may illuminate without a driveability concern being noted. The vehicle will usually be drivable and will not require towing.

What you should do if the Service Engine Soon light illuminates

Light turns on solid:

This means that the OBD II system has detected a malfunction.

Temporary malfunctions may cause your Service Engine Soon light to illuminate. Examples are:

1. The vehicle has run out of fuel. (The engine may misfire or run poorly.)

2. Poor fuel quality or water in the fuel.

3. The fuel cap may not have been properly installed and securely tightened.

Instrumentation

These temporary malfunctions can be corrected by filling the fuel tank with good quality fuel and/or properly installing and securely tightening the gas cap. After three driving cycles without these or any other temporary malfunctions present, the Service Engine Soon light should turn off. (A driving cycle consists of a cold engine startup followed by mixed city/highway driving.) No additional vehicle service is required.

If the Service Engine Soon light remains on, have your vehicle serviced at the first available opportunity.

Light is blinking:

Engine misfire is occurring which could damage your catalytic converter. You should drive in a moderate fashion (avoid heavy acceleration and deceleration) and have your vehicle serviced at the first available opportunity.

Under engine misfire

conditions, excessive exhaust temperatures could damage the catalytic converter, the fuel system, interior floor coverings or other vehicle components, possibly causing a fire.

Air bag readiness

Momentarily illuminates when the ignition is turned ON. If the light fails to illuminate, continues to flash or remains on, have the system serviced immediately.

Safety belt

Momentarily illuminates when the ignition is turned ON to remind you to fasten your safety belts. For more information, refer to the

Seating and safety restraints

chapter.

Brake system warning

Momentarily illuminates when the ignition is turned ON and the engine is off. Also illuminates when the parking brake is engaged. Illumination after releasing the parking brake indicates low brake fluid level.

Anti-lock brake system (ABS) (If equipped)

Momentarily illuminates when the ignition is turned on and the engine is off. If the light remains on or continues to flash, the ABS needs to be serviced.

Instrumentation

P !

BRAKE

ABS

Turn signal

Illuminates when the left or right turn signal or the hazard lights are turned on. If one or both of the indicators stay on continuously or flash faster, check for a burned-out turn signal bulb. Refer to Exterior

Instrumentation

bulbs in the Maintenance and care chapter.

High beams

Illuminates when the high beam headlamps are turned on.

Anti-theft system (if equipped)

Refer to Anti-theft system in the Controls and features chapter.

Charging system

Momentarily illuminates when the ignition is turned ON and the engine is off. The light also illuminates when the battery is not charging properly, requiring electrical system service.

THEFT

Engine oil pressure

Illuminates when the oil pressure falls below the normal range. Switch off the engine immediately. Check the oil level and add oil if needed. Refer to Engine oil in the Maintenance and Care chapter.

This lamp also illuminates when the ignition is turned to ON and the engine is off.

Check coolant

Illuminates when the coolant level in the coolant reservoir is low and more needs to be added. This lamp

CHECK

COOLANT

will also illuminate when the ignition is turned to ON and the engine is off. For more information on adding engine coolant, refer to

Engine coolant in the Maintenance and care chapter.

Liftgate ajar (if equipped)

Illuminates when the ignition is in the ON position and the liftgate is open.

Safety belt warning chime

Chimes to remind you to fasten your safety belts.

For information on the safety belt warning chime, refer to the

Seating and safety restraints

chapter.

Supplemental restraint system (SRS) warning chime

For information on the SRS warning chime, refer to the

Seating and safety restraints

chapter.

Instrumentation

Key-in-ignition warning chime

Sounds when the key is left in the ignition in the OFF/LOCK or ACC position and either front door is opened.

Headlamps on warning chime

Sounds when the headlamps or parking lamps are on, the ignition is off (and the key is not in the ignition) and either front door is opened.

Instrumentation

GAUGES Base instrument cluster gauges

MPH km/h

FUEL FILL

SERVICE ENGINE

SOON

BRAKE

ABS

Sport instrument cluster gauges

BRAKE

ABS

LOW FUEL

FUEL FILL

SERVICE ENGINE

SOON

100

0000000

0 0 0

100

0000000

0 0 0

120

140

100

160

110

180

200

120

140

100

160

110

180

200

120

THEFT

RPMx1000

THEFT

CHECK

+–

COOLANT

7 8

CHECK

+–

COOLANT

Fuel gauge

Displays approximately how much fuel is in the fuel tank (when the key is in the ON position). The fuel gauge may vary slightly when the vehicle is in motion. The ignition should be in the OFF position while the vehicle is being refueled. When the gauge first indicates empty, there is a small amount of reserve fuel in the tank.

FUEL

FILL

When refueling the vehicle from empty indication, the amount of fuel that can be added will be less than the advertised capacity due to the reserve fuel.

Engine coolant temperature gauge

Indicates the temperature of the engine coolant. At normal operating temperature, the needle remains within the normal area (the area between the “H” and “C”). If it enters the red section, the engine is overheating. Stop the vehicle, switch off the ignition and let the engine cool. Refer to

Engine coolant in the Maintenance and care chapter.

Never remove the coolant

recovery cap while the engine is running or hot.

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.

Instrumentation

Speedometer

Indicates the current vehicle speed.

MPH

60 70

120

100

0000000

0 00

140

km/h

160

100

180

120

110

Instrumentation

Odometer

Registers the total kilometers (miles) of the vehicle.

Trip odometer

Registers the kilometers (miles) of individual journeys. To reset, depress the control.

Tachometer (if equipped)

Indicates the engine speed in revolutions per minute.

Driving with your tachometer pointer in the red zone may damage the engine.

THEFT

MPH

60 70

0 00000

MPH

60 70

100

0 00000

0000

RPMx1000

100

0 00

120

140

km/h

140

km/h

160

180

160

180

100

110

120

100

110

120

PANEL DIMMER CONTROL

Use to adjust the brightness of the instrument panel.

• Rotate left to brighten.

• Rotate right to dim.

POWER SIDE VIEW MIRRORS

To adjust your mirrors:

1. Select L to adjust the left mirror or R to adjust the right mirror.

2. Move the control in the direction you wish to tilt the mirror.

Controls and features

MIRRORS

L R

MIRRORS L R

3. Return to the center position to lock mirrors in place.

The ignition key must be in ACC or ON to adjust the power side view mirrors.

Controls and features

To adjust your mirrors:

1. Select L to adjust the left mirror or R to adjust the right mirror.

2. Move the control in the direction you wish to tilt the mirror.

3. Return to the center position to lock mirrors in place.

MIRRORS

L R

MIRRORS L R

AUDIO SYSTEM

Refer to the “Audio Guide” for instructions on how to operate the audio system.

CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM Heater only system

(if equipped)

OFF

Fan speed control

Controls the volume of air circulated in the vehicle.

Temperature control knob

Controls the temperature of the airflow inside the vehicle. On heater-only systems, the air cannot be cooled below the outside temperature.

Mode selector control

Controls the direction of the airflow to the inside of the vehicle.

Controls and features

OFF

•

(Vent)-Distributes outside air through the instrument panel registers.

• OFF-Outside air is shut out and the fan will not operate.

•

(Panel and floor)-Distributes outside air through the instrument panel registers and the floor ducts.

•

(Floor)-Allows for maximum heating. Distributes outside air through the floor ducts.

•

(Floor and defrost)-Distributes outside air through the floor ducts and the windshield defroster ducts.

•

-Distributes outside air

through the windshield defroster

Controls and features

ducts. It can be used to clear ice or fog from the windshield.

Operating tips

• In humid weather, select before driving. This will

help to prevent your windshield from fogging. After a few minutes, select any desired position.

• To prevent humidity buildup

inside the vehicle, don’t drive with the climate control system in the OFF position.

• Don’t put objects under the

front seat that will interfere with the airflow to the back seats.

• Remove any snow, ice or leaves

from the air intake area (at the bottom of the windshield under the hood).

• When placing objects on top of

your instrument panel, be careful to not place them over the defroster outlets. These objects can block airflow and reduce your ability to see through your windshield. Also, avoid placing small objects on top of your instrument panel. These objects can fall down into the defroster outlets and block airflow and possibly damage your climate control system.

Manual heating and air conditioning system (if equipped)

Controls and features

Fan speed control

Controls the volume of air circulated in the vehicle.

Temperature control knob

Controls the temperature of the airflow inside the vehicle.

Mode selector control

Controls the direction of the airflow to the inside of the vehicle.

The air conditioning compressor will operate in all modes except

and . However, the air conditioning will only function if the outside temperature is about 10°C (50°F) or above.

Since the air conditioner removes considerable moisture from the air during operation, it is normal if clear water drips on the ground under the air conditioner drain while the system is working and

MAX

OFF

A/C

OFF

A/C

MAX

A/C

Controls and features

even after you have stopped the vehicle.

Under normal conditions, your vehicle’s climate control system should be left in any position other than MAX A/C or OFF when the vehicle is parked. This allows the vehicle to “breathe” through the outside air inlet duct.

• MAX A/C-Uses recirculated air

to cool the vehicle. MAX A/C is noisier than A/C but more economical and will cool the inside of the vehicle faster. Airflow will be from the instrument panel registers. This mode can also be used to prevent undesirable odors from entering the vehicle.

• A/C-Uses outside air to cool the

vehicle. It is quieter than MAX A/C but not as economical. Airflow will be from the instrument panel registers.

(Vent)-Distributes outside

•

air through the instrument panel registers. However, the air will not be cooled below the outside temperature because the air conditioning does not operate in this mode.

• OFF-Outside air is shut out and

the fan will not operate. For short periods of time only, use this mode to prevent undesirable odors from entering the vehicle.

•

(Panel and floor)-

Distributes outside air through

the instrument panel registers and the floor ducts. Heating and air conditioning capabilities are provided in this mode. For added customer comfort, when the temperature control knob is anywhere in between the full hot and full cold positions, the air distributed through the floor ducts will be slightly warmer than the air sent to the instrument panel registers.

• (Floor)-Allows for maximum

heating by distributing outside air through the floor ducts. However, the air will not be cooled below the outside temperature because the air conditioning does not operate in this mode.

•

(Floor and defrost)Distributes outside air through the windshield defroster ducts and the floor ducts. Heating and air conditioning capabilities are provided in this mode. For added customer comfort, when the temperature control knob is anywhere in between the full hot and full cold positions, the air distributed through the floor ducts will be slightly warmer than the air sent to the instrument panel registers. If the temperature is about 10°C (50°F) or higher, the air conditioner will automatically dehumidify the air to prevent fogging.

Controls and features

• -Distributes outside air through the windshield defroster ducts. It can be used to clear ice or fog from the windshield. If the temperature is about 10°C (50°F) or higher, the air conditioner will automatically dehumidify the air to prevent fogging.

Operating tips

• In humid weather, select

before driving. This will prevent your windshield from fogging. After a few minutes, select any desired position.

• To prevent humidity buildup inside the vehicle, don’t drive with the climate control system in the OFF position.

• Don’t put objects under the front seat that will interfere with the airflow to the back seats.

• Remove any snow, ice or leaves from the air intake area (at the bottom of the windshield under the hood).

• If your vehicle has been parked with the windows closed during hot weather, the air conditioner will do a much faster job of cooling if you drive for two or three minutes with the windows open. This will force most of the hot, stale air out of the vehicle.

Then operate your air conditioner as you would normally.

• When placing objects on top of your instrument panel, be careful to not place them over the defroster outlets. These objects can block airflow and reduce your ability to see through your windshield. Also, avoid placing small objects on top of your instrument panel. These objects can fall down into the defroster outlets and block airflow and possibly damage your climate control system.

REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER

Clears the rear window of thin ice and fog. To operate:

1. Turn the ignition to the ON

position.

2. Press and release the control

once to turn on. The light will be lit while the rear window defroster is on.

3. Press and release the control

again to turn off. The defroster will automatically

turn off after fifteen minutes.

Controls and features

R.DEF

Controls and features

POSITIONS OF THE IGNITION

1. LOCK, locks the steering wheel,

gearshift lever (automatic transaxle only) and allows key removal. On vehicles with a manual transaxle push the key in while turning to lock.

2. ACCESSORY, allows the

electrical accessories such as the radio to operate while the engine is not running.

3. ON, all electrical circuits

operational. Warning lights illuminated. Key position when driving.

4. START, cranks the engine.

Release the key as soon as the engine starts.

HEADLAMP CONTROL

Rotate the headlamp control clockwise to the first position to turn on the parking lamps only. Rotate to the second position to also turn on the headlamps.

Daytime running lamps (DRL) (if equipped)

Turns the highbeam headlamps on with a reduced output. To activate:

• the engine must be running

• the gearshift must not be in P

(Park)

• the headlamp control is in the OFF or Parking lamps position.

OFF

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.

High beams

Push forward to activate.

Flash to pass

Pull toward you to activate and release to deactivate.

Controls and features

OFF

TURN SIGNAL CONTROL

• Push down to activate the left turn signal.

• Push up to activate the right turn signal.

OFF

Controls and features

FOGLAMPS (IF EQUIPPED)

Rotate forward to activate.

SPEED CONTROL (IF EQUIPPED)

To turn speed control on

• Press ON.

Vehicle speed cannot be controlled until the vehicle is traveling at or above 48 km/h (30 mph).

OFF OFF

OFF

Do not use the speed

control in heavy traffic or on roads that are winding, slippery, or unpaved.

Do not shift the gearshift

lever into N (Neutral) with the speed control on.

To turn speed control off

• Press OFF or

• Turn off the vehicle ignition.

Once speed control is switched off, the previously programmed set speed will be erased.

To set a speed

• Press SET ACC/SET ACCEL. For speed control to operate, the speed control must be ON and the vehicle speed must be greater than 48 km/h (30 mph).

Controls and features

OFF

RSM

SET

ACC

CST

If you drive up or down a steep hill, your vehicle speed may vary momentarily slower or faster than the set speed. This is normal.

Speed control cannot reduce the vehicle speed if it increases above the set speed on a downhill. If your vehicle speed is faster than the set speed while driving on a downhill, you may want to shift to the next lower gear or apply the brakes to reduce your vehicle speed.

Controls and features

If your vehicle slows down more than 16 km/h (10 mph) below your set speed on an uphill, your speed control will disengage. This is normal. Pressing RES/RSM/RESUME will re-engage it.

Do not use the speed

control in heavy traffic or on roads that are winding, slippery, or unpaved.

To set a higher set speed

• Press and hold SET ACC/SET ACCEL. Release the control when the desired vehicle speed is reached or

• Press and release SET ACC/SET ACCEL. Each press will increase the set speed by 1.6 km/h (1 mph) or

• Accelerate with your accelerator pedal, then press and release SET ACC/SET ACCEL.

You can accelerate with the accelerator pedal at any time during speed control usage. Releasing the accelerator pedal will return your vehicle to the previously programmed set speed.

RSM

SET

ACC

CST

To set a lower set speed

• Press and hold CST/COAST. Release the control when the desired speed is reached or

• Press and release CST/COAST. Each press will decrease the set speed by 1.6 km/h (1 mph) or

• Depress the brake pedal. When the desired vehicle speed is reached, press SET ACC/SET ACCEL.

Controls and features

RSM

SET

ACC

CST

RSM

SET

ACC

CST

Controls and features

To disengage speed control

• Depress the brake pedal or

• Depress the clutch pedal (if

equipped)

Disengaging the speed control will not erase the previously programmed set speed.

Pressing OFF will erase the previously programmed set speed.

OFF

To return to a previously set speed

• Press RES/RSM/RESUME. For RES/RSM/RESUME to operate, the vehicle speed must be faster than 48 km/h (30 mph).

TILT STEERING (IF EQUIPPED)

Pull the tilt steering control down to move the steering wheel up or down. Hold the control while adjusting the wheel to the desired position, then push the control back up to lock the steering wheel in position.

Controls and features

RSM

SET

ACC

CST

Never adjust the steering wheel when the vehicle is

moving.

HAZARD FLASHER

For information on the hazard flasher control, refer to Hazard

lights control in the Roadside emergencies chapter.

Controls and features

WINDSHIELD WIPER AND WASHER

• For intermittent wiping, move the control down one position and rotate the wiper switch to the desired position.

MIST

OFF

INT

PULL

• For low speed wiping, move the control down two positions.

• For high speed wiping, move the control down three positions.

• For mist wiping, move the control up one position.

• To spray the washer fluid, pull the wiper control toward you.

MIST

OFF

INT

MIST

OFF

INT

PULL

INT

PULL

Rear window wiper/washer controls (if equipped)

For rear wiper operation, rotate the rear wiper and washer control to the desired position.

• To turn rear wipers on, rotate the rear wiper/washer control upward to the ON position.

• To turn rear wipers off, rotate the rear wiper/washer control downward to the OFF position.

For rear washer fluid operation, rotate the rear wiper/washer control to the desired position.

• To turn rear washers on, rotate the rear wiper/washer control upward to the

position for your desired length of washer time.

• To turn rear washers on briefly (for quick cleaning), rotate the wiper/washer control downward to the

position and release.

Controls and features

MIST

OFF

INT

ON OFF

INT

PULL

MOON ROOF (IF EQUIPPED)

• Press OPEN to raise the moon roof to the vent position.

• Press OPEN again to fully open the moon roof.

• Press the opposite end of the toggle control to close the moon roof from either position.

Sliding shade

The moon roof has a sliding shade that you can open or close when the moon roof is closed.

OPEN

Controls and features

INTERIOR LAMPS Dome lamp (if equipped)

The dome lamp is located overhead between the driver and passenger seats.

The dome lamp will stay on if the control is moved to the ON position. When the control is moved to the DOOR position, the lamp will only come on if a door is opened. If the control is moved to the OFF position, the lamp will not come on at all.

Map lamps (if equipped)

The map lamps and controls are located on the dome lamp. Press the controls on either side of the dome lamp to activate the map lamps.

If equipped with a moon roof, the map lamps are located on the moon roof control panel. Press the control next to the map lamp to illuminate the lamp.

OFF DOOR ON

OPEN

POWER WINDOWS (IF EQUIPPED)

Press and hold the rocker switches to open and close windows.

• Press the top portion of the rocker switch to close.

Controls and features

• Press the bottom portion of the rocker switch to open.

Express down

To make the driver window open fully without holding the window control, press the driver window control completely down and release quickly. Depress again to stop window operation.

POSITIVE RETENTION FLOOR MAT

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

FUEL PUMP SHUT-OFF SWITCH

Refer to the Roadside emergencies chapter for

instructions on how to operate the fuel pump shut-off switch.

CARGO COVER (IF EQUIPPED)

Your vehicle may be equipped with a cargo area shade that covers the luggage compartment of your vehicle.

To install the shade:

1. Fasten the cover into the

mounting brackets (make sure the cover is right side up).

2. Pull the end of the shade toward

you and hook the sides into the notches in the rear trim panels.

To prevent the possibility

of injuries, the fasteners for the cargo area cover must be properly attached to the mounting clips on the rear trim panels.

Controls and features

Do not place any objects

on the cargo area cover. They may obstruct your vision or strike occupants of the vehicle in the case of a sudden stop or collision.

REMOTE ENTRY SYSTEM

Your vehicle may have an all-door remote entry system or a driver’s door only remote entry system.

Controls and features

The all-door remote entry system allows you to:

• lock or unlock all vehicle doors without a key.

• arm and disarm the anti-theft system. (For more information on the anti-theft system, refer to Anti-theft system in this chapter.)

• open the trunk.

• activate the panic alarm.

The driver’s door only entry system allows you to:

• lock the driver’s door and liftgate (wagons)

• unlock the driver’s door only without a key.

• activate the panic alarm.

• open the trunk or unlock liftgate

(wagons).

The remote entry features only operate with the ignition in the OFF position.

Unlocking the doors

Press this control to unlock the driver’s door. The interior lamps will illuminate.

With the all-door remote entry system, press the control a second time within five seconds to unlock all doors (on wagons, this will not unlock the liftgate).

Locking the doors

Press this control to lock all doors (and liftgate on wagons). On vehicles equipped with the driver’s door only remote entry system, only the driver’s door will lock.

To confirm doors are closed and locked, press the lock control a second time within five seconds. The door(s) will lock again, the horn will chirp once and the lamps will flash.

If any of the doors are open or ajar, the horn will make two quick chirps, reminding you to properly close the doors.

This process will also arm your anti-theft system (if equipped). For more information on arming the anti-theft system, refer to Anti-theft system in this chapter.

Opening the trunk

Press the control once to open the trunk. On wagons, pressing the control will unlock (but not open) the liftgate.

Be certain the trunk is closed before driving your vehicle. The trunk may appear closed, but it may not be latched. Failure to do so may cause objects to fall out of the trunk or block rear view vision.

Controls and features

Sounding a panic alarm

Press this control to activate the alarm.

To deactivate the alarm, press the control again or turn the ignition to ACC or ON.

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

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

Replacing the batteries

The transmitter is powered by two coin type three-volt lithium batteries. Typical operating range will allow you to be up to 10 meters (33 feet) away from your vehicle. A decrease in operating range can be caused by:

• battery failure

• weather conditions

• nearby radio towers

• structures around the vehicle

• other vehicles parked next to

the vehicle

To replace the batteries:

1. Twist a thin coin between the

two halves of the transmitter. DO NOT TAKE THE FRONT PART OF THE TRANSMITTER APART.

2. Place the positive (+) side of

new batteries down. Refer to the diagram inside the transmitter unit.

3. Snap the two halves back

together.

Replacing lost transmitters

Take all your vehicle’s transmitters to your dealer for reprogramming if:

• a transmitter is lost or

• you want to purchase additional

transmitters (up to four may be programmed).

To reprogram the transmitters, place the key in the ignition and switch from OFF to ON eight times in rapid succession (within 10 seconds). After doors lock/unlock, press any button on all transmitters (up to four). With each button press of the transmitters, the door should cycle (lock/unlock) to confirm programming. When completed, switch the ignition to OFF. The door locks should cycle (lock/unlock) one last time to confirm completion of programming.

Controls and features

All transmitters must be programmed at the same time.

Illuminated entry

Interior lamps will illuminate when UNLOCK is pressed. The lamps will illuminate for approximately 20 seconds or until the key is inserted in the ignition and turned to ON or until LOCK is pressed. The dome lamp must be set to the DOOR position in order for the illuminated entry system to operate.

ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)

When armed, the anti-theft system will help prevent your vehicle from unauthorized entry.

Arming the anti-theft system

Turn the ignition to OFF and press the lock control on the remote entry transmitter.

Identifying an armed system

While the system is arming, the THEFT light in the instrument cluster will illuminate for 30 seconds. After 30 seconds, THEFT will flash, indicating the system is armed.

If the system is arming with the doors open, the THEFT light will stay illuminated until all the doors are closed and then illuminate for 30 seconds and begin flashing.

When an unauthorized entry occurs, the activated system will:

• flash the parking lamps and the THEFT light

• sound the horn

The flashing parklamps and the honking horn automatically shut off after about three minutes and will remain off unless another unauthorized entry is attempted.

Disarming the anti-theft system

Disarming an untriggered anti-theft system

Press the unlock control to disarm the untriggered system. If the driver armed the system but did not exit the vehicle, disarm the system by inserting the key and turning the ignition to ON/ACC.

Using the ignition key to unlock doors/trunk/liftgate will not disarm the anti-theft system.

Controls and features

Disarming a triggered anti-theft system

Press either the unlock or panic control to disarm the system.

A triggered system may also be disarmed by inserting the key and turning the ignition to ACC or ON.

Seating and safety restraints

SEATING Adjustable head restraints

(if equipped)

The head restraints can be moved up and down.

Push control to lower head restraint.

Front seats

Never adjust the driver’s seat or seatback when the

vehicle is moving.

Do not pile cargo higher

than the seatbacks to avoid injuring people in a collision or sudden stop.

Seating and safety restraints

Always drive and ride with

your seatback upright and the lap belt snug and low across the hips.

Lift handle to move seat forward or backward.

Pull lever up to adjust seatback.

Seating and safety restraints

Driver seat memory recliner (if equipped)

• Pull control to adjust seatback.

• To retain selected seatback

position, release seatback by moving memory recliner control forward to release seatback.

• Push seatback rearward until the seatback latches. This will be the first position selected.

Seating and safety restraints

Folding rear seats (if equipped)

Folding down the rear seats

If your vehicle is equipped with a built-in child seat, the seatback cannot be folded down unless the built-in child seat is fully stowed. See Built-in child seats in this chapter for more information.

To fold the seatback down:

• Press the latch control downward or pull up on strap and

• Push the seatback down.

Returning the seat to the upright position

Check to see that the seat

and seatback is latched securely in position. Keep floor area free of objects that would prevent proper seat engagement. Never attempt to adjust the seat while the vehicle is in motion.

To return the seat to the upright/normal seating position:

• Rotate seat upward and latch. The full rear bench seat is shown.

The split-folding rear seat (if equipped) operates in a similar manner.

SAFETY RESTRAINTS Safety restraints precautions

Always drive and ride with

your seatback upright and the lap belt snug and low across the hips.

To prevent the risk of

injury, make sure children sit where they can be properly restrained.

Never let a passenger hold

a child on his or her lap while the vehicle is moving. The passenger cannot protect the child from injury in a collision.

All occupants of the

vehicle, including the driver, should always wear their safety belts.

Seating and safety restraints

It is extremely dangerous

to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a safety belt properly.

Seating and safety restraints

Each seating position in

your vehicle has a specific safety belt assembly which is made up of one buckle and one tongue that are designed to be used as a pair. 1) Use the shoulder belt on the outside shoulder only. Never wear the shoulder belt under the arm. 2) Never swing it around your neck over the inside shoulder. 3) Never use a single belt for more than one person.

Combination lap and shoulder belts

1. To fasten, insert the tongue into the slot in the buckle.

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

The front and rear outboard safety restraints in the vehicle are

Seating and safety restraints

combination lap and shoulder belts. The front and rear seat passenger outboard safety belts have two types of locking modes described below:

Automatic locking mode

In this mode, the shoulder belt is automatically pre-locked. The belt will still retract to remove any slack in the shoulder belt.

The automatic locking mode is not available on the driver safety belt.

When to use the automatic locking mode

• When a tight lap/shoulder fit is desired.

• Anytime a child safety seat is installed in the vehicle. Refer to

Safety Restraints for Children

or Safety Seats for Children later in this chapter.

How to use the automatic locking mode

• Buckle the combination lap and shoulder belt.

Seating and safety restraints

• Grasp the shoulder portion and pull downward until the entire belt is extracted.

• Allow the belt to retract. As the belt retracts, you will hear a clicking sound. This indicates the safety belt is now in the automatic locking mode.

How to disengage the automatic locking mode

Disconnect the combination lap/shoulder belt and allow it to retract completely to disengage the automatic locking mode and activate the vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking mode.

Front safety belt height adjustment

Your vehicle has safety belt height adjustments for the driver and front passenger. Adjust the height of the shoulder belt so the belt rests across the middle of your shoulder.

To lower the shoulder belt height, push the button and slide the height control down. To raise the height of the shoulder belt, slide the height adjuster up. Pull down on the height adjustment assembly to make sure it is locked in place.

Seating and safety restraints

Position the shoulder belt

height adjuster so that the belt rests across the middle of your shoulder. Failure to adjust the safety belt properly could reduce the effectiveness of the safety belt and increase the risk of injury in a collision.

Lap belts

Adjusting the lap belt

The lap belt does not adjust automatically. Adjust to fit snugly and as low as possible around your hips. Do not wear the lap belt around your waist.

Insert the tongue into the correct buckle. To lengthen the belt, turn the tongue at a right angle to the belt and pull across your lap until it reaches the buckle. To tighten the belt, pull the loose end of the belt through the tongue until it fits snugly across the hips.

Seating and safety restraints

Shorten and fasten the belt when not in use.

Safety belt extension assembly

If the safety belt assembly is too short, even when fully extended, 20 cm (8 inches) can be added to the safety belt assembly by adding a safety belt extension assembly (part number 611C22). Safety belt extension assemblies can be obtained from your dealer at no cost.

Use only extensions manufactured by the same supplier as the safety belt. Manufacturer identification is located at the end of the webbing on the label. Also, use the safety belt extension only if the safety belt is too short for you when fully extended. Do not use extensions to change the fit of the shoulder belt across the torso.

Safety belt warning light and indicator chime

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

Seating and safety restraints

Conditions of operation

If... Then...

The driver’s safety belt is not buckled before the ignition key is turned to ON...

The driver’s safety belt is buckled while the indicator light is illuminated and the warning chime is sounding...

The driver’s safety belt is buckled before the ignition key is turned to ON...

Safety belt maintenance

Check the safety belt systems periodically to make sure they work properly and are not damaged. Check the safety belts to make sure there are no nicks, wears or cuts. All safety belt assemblies, including retractors, buckles, front seat belt buckle assemblies (slide bar)(if equipped), shoulder belt height adjusters (if equipped), child safety seat tether bracket assemblies (if equipped), and attaching hardware, should be inspected after a 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.

The safety belt warning light illuminates for one to two minutes and the warning chime sounds for four to eight seconds.

The safety belt warning light turns off.

The safety belt warning light remains off.

Seating and safety restraints

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

Failure to replace the

safety belt assembly under

the above conditions could result in severe personal injuries in the event of a collision.

Refer to Cleaning and maintaining the safety belts in the Maintenance and care section.

Seating and safety restraints

AIR BAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)

Important supplemental restraint system (SRS) precautions

The supplemental restraint system is designed to:

• work with the safety belt to protect the driver and right front passenger

• reduce certain upper body injuries

Failure to follow these

instructions will affect the performance of the safety belts and increase the risk of personal injury.

The right front passenger

air bag is not designed to restrain occupants in the center front seating position.

Seating and safety restraints

All occupants of the

vehicle including the driver should always wear their safety belts even when air bag SRS is provided.

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 into contact with a deploying air bag. Failure to follow this instruction may increase the risk of personal injury in the event of a collision.

Do not attempt to service,

repair, or modify the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System or its fuses. See your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer.

Children and air bags

For additional important safety information, read all information on safety restraints in this guide.

Children should always wear their safety belts. Failure to follow these instructions may increase the risk of injury in a collision.

Air bag can kill or injure a

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

Seating and safety restraints

How does the air bag supplemental restraint system work?

The SRS is designed to activate when the vehicle sustains sufficient longitudinal deceleration.

The fact that the air bags did not inflate in a collision does not mean that something is wrong with the system. Rather, it means the forces were not of the type sufficient to cause activation.

The air bags inflate and deflate rapidly upon activation.

After air bag deployment, it is normal to notice a smoke-like, powdery residue or smell the burnt propellant. This may consist of cornstarch, talcum powder (to lubricate the bag) or sodium compounds (e.g., baking soda) that result from the combustion process that inflates the air bag. Small amounts of sodium hydroxide may be present which may irritate the skin and eyes, but none of the residue is toxic.

Several air bag system

components get hot after inflation. Do not touch them after inflation.

Seating and safety restraints

If the air bag is inflated,

the air bag will not function again and must be replaced immediately.Ifthe

air bag is not replaced, the unrepaired area will increase the risk of injury in a collision.

The SRS consists of:

• driver and passenger air bag modules (which include the inflators and air bags),

• one or more impact and safing sensors,

• a readiness light and tone

• and the electrical wiring which

connects the components.

The diagnostic module monitors its own internal circuits and the supplemental air bag electrical system warning (including the impact sensors), the system wiring, the air bag system readiness light, the air bag back up power and the air bag ignitors.

Determining if the system is operational

The SRS uses a readiness light in the instrument cluster or a tone to indicate the condition of the system. Refer to the Air bag

readiness section in the Instrumentation chapter. Routine

maintenance of the air bag is not required.

Seating and safety restraints

A difficulty with the system is indicated by one or more of the following:

• The readiness light will either flash or stay lit.

• The readiness light will not illuminate immediately after ignition is turned on.

• A series 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, even intermittently, have the SRS serviced at your dealership or by a qualified technician immediately. Unless serviced, the system may not function properly in the event of a collision.

Disposal of air bags and air bag equipped vehicles

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

SAFETY RESTRAINTS FOR CHILDREN

Important child restraint precautions

You are required by law to use safety restraints for children in the U.S. and Canada. If small children ride in your vehicle (generally children who are four years old or younger and who weigh 18 kg [40 lbs] or less), you must put them in

Seating and safety restraints

safety seats made especially for children. Check your local and state or provincial laws for specific requirements regarding the safety of children in your vehicle.

Never let a passenger hold

a child on his or her lap while the vehicle is moving. The passenger cannot protect the child from injury in a collision.

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

When possible, place 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 position.

Children and safety belts

Children who are too large for child safety seats (as specified by your child safety seat manufacturer) should always wear safety belts.

Follow all the important safety restraint and air bag precautions that apply to adult passengers in your vehicle.

If the shoulder belt portion of a combination lap and shoulder belt can be positioned so it does not cross or rest in front of the child’s face or neck, the child should wear the lap and shoulder belt. Moving the child closer to the center of

Seating and safety restraints

the vehicle may help provide a good shoulder belt fit.

If the shoulder belt cannot be properly positioned:

• move the child to one of the seats with a lap belt only (if equipped)

• if the child is the proper size, restrain the child in a safety seat.

Do not leave children, unreliable adults, or pets

unattended in your vehicle.

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 special needs

Seating and safety restraints

of your child with your pediatrician.

SAFETY SEATS FOR CHILDREN Child and infant or child safety

seats

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

When installing a child safety seat:

• Use the correct safety belt buckle for that seating position.

• Make sure the tongue is securely fastened in the buckle.

• Keep the buckle release button pointing up and away from the safety seat, with the tongue between the child seat and the release button, to prevent accidental unbuckling.

• Place seat back in upright position.

• Put the safety belt in the automatic locking mode. Refer to Automatic locking mode.

Ford recommends the use of a child safety seat having a top tether strap. Install the child safety seat in a seating position which is capable of providing a tether anchorage. For more information on top tether straps, refer to

Seating and safety restraints

Attaching safety seats with tether straps.

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.

Installing child safety seats in combination lap and shoulder belt seating positions

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

Air bag can kill or injure a

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

Seating and safety restraints

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

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. Be sure the belt webbing is not twisted.

4. Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle for that seating position until you hear and feel the latch engage. Make sure the tongue is latched securely by pulling on it.

PRESS

Seating and safety restraints

5. To put the retractor in the automatic locking mode, grasp the shoulder portion of the belt and pull downward until all of the belt is extracted and a click is heard.

6. Allow the belt to retract. The belt will click as it retracts to indicate it is in the automatic locking mode.

7. Pull the lap belt portion across the child seat toward the buckle and pull up on the shoulder belt while pushing down with your knee on the child seat.

8. Allow the safety belt to retract to remove any slack in the belt.

9. Before placing the child in the seat, forcibly tilt the seat forward and back to make sure the seat is securely held in place.

10. Try to pull the belt out of the retractor to make sure the retractor is in the automatic locking mode (you should not be

Seating and safety restraints

able to pull more belt out). If the retractor is not locked, unbuckle the belt and repeat steps two through nine.

Check to make sure the child seat is properly secured before each use.

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 (Sedan/Wagon)

Attachment holes (at each rear seating position) have been provided in your vehicle to attach anchor hardware, if required. Tether anchorage hardware kits including instructions, may be obtained at no charge from any Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. All vehicles built for sale in Canada include a tether anchor hardware kit.

Be sure to follow the child safety seat manufacturer’s instructions.

Seating and safety restraints

Tighten the anchor

according to specifications. Otherwise, the safety seat may not be properly secured and the child may be injured in a sudden stop or collision.

1. Install the child safety seat in the rear right, rear left or rear center seat position. For instructions on how to install the seat, refer to Installing child

safety seats in combination lap and shoulder belt seating positions in this chapter.

2. Refer to the instructions provided in the tether anchor kit.

3. Refer to the instructions provided with your child safety seat to securely attach the child safety seat by tether to the tether strap anchor location.

• Sedan

• Wagon

Seating and safety restraints

BUILT-IN CHILD SEATS Built-in child safety seat

(if equipped)

The rear seat may include a built-in child seat. This child seat conforms to all Federal and local motor vehicle safety standards. Read the labels located on the child seat cushion and shoulder belt for information on the built-in child seat.

Use the built-in child seat only if the child is at least 9 months old, weighs 9–27 kg (20–60 lb) and the child’s shoulders (top) are below the shoulder harness slots in the built-in child seat.

Children not meeting these requirements should be secured in an approved aftermarket seat. Refer to Children and infant or child safety seats in this chapter.

Built-in child seat retractors

The belts on built-in child seats are equipped with a retractor that locks when both tongues are latched into the crotch safety belt buckle. The retractor will automatically snug the belts around the child. If the belts do not remain snug, take the vehicle to the dealer for child seat repair. The belts will not snug during a collision.

Seating and safety restraints

Placing your child in the built-in child seat

Failure to follow all of the

instructions on the use of this child restraint system can result in your child striking the vehicle’s interior during a sudden stop or crash.

Never use the Built-In

Child Seat as a booster cushion with the adult safety belts. A child using the adult belts could slide forward and out from under the safety belts.

The rear seatback must be

fully locked before operating the child restraint system.

1. Grasp the child seat at the top of the seatback and pull the top forward to release the latch.

2. Continue to unfold the child seat until it rests on the seat.

Seating and safety restraints

3. Read all information and warnings on the child seat cushion and shoulder safety belt. Make sure the child is not too large for the child seat.

4. If connected, squeeze the top and the bottom of the right half of the chest clip and pull to separate both halves.

5. Place the child on the child seat and position the shoulder belts over each shoulder.

Seating and safety restraints

6. Insert either the left or the right safety belt tongue into the single opening of the crotch safety belt buckle (it doesn’t matter which tongue is inserted first). Insert other tongue. The color green must appear in the indicator window on the crotch safety belt buckle when buckled. Allow belts to retract and fit snugly.

Seating and safety restraints

7. Fasten both halves of the chest clip below the child’s shoulders and adjust it to comfortably hold the shoulder belts in place on the child’s chest. The color green must appear in the indicator window when fastened.

8. Pull the shoulder belts toward you to make sure the crotch safety belt buckle is properly fastened and the retractor is locked.

9. If the belts become too tight, unbuckle the crotch safety belt buckle to unlock the retractors, then reinsert both belt tongues.

Seating and safety restraints

Removing your child from the built-in child seat

1. Squeeze the tabs on the top and the bottom of the chest clip and pull the halves apart to open the chest clip.

2. Press the release button on the crotch safety belt buckle.

Seating and safety restraints

3. Slide the shoulder belts off the child’s shoulders and remove the child.

To stow the built-in child seat

Return the child seat cushion to the upright position, then press firmly in the center and top of the child seat.

Inspecting the built-in child seat after a collision

Inspect all built-in child restraints, including seats, buckles, retractors, seat latches. Interlocks and attaching hardware should be inspected by a qualified technician after any collision. If the child seat was in use during a collision, Ford recommends replacing it. Built-in child restraints not in use during a collision should be inspected and replaced if either damage or improper operation is noted.

PREPARING TO START YOUR VEHICLE

Engine starting is controlled by the spark ignition system. This system meets all Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment standard requirements regulating the impulse electrical field strength of radio noise.

When starting a fuel-injected engine, avoid pressing the accelerator before or during starting. Only use the accelerator when you have difficulty starting the engine. For more information on starting the vehicle, refer to Starting the engine in this chapter.

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.

Starting

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.

Starting

Do not start your vehicle

in a closed garage or in other enclosed areas. Exhaust fumes can be toxic. Always open the garage door before you start the engine. See Guarding against exhaust fumes in this chapter for more instructions.

If you smell exhaust fumes

inside your vehicle, have your dealer inspect your vehicle immediately. Do not drive if you smell exhaust fumes.

Important safety precautions

A computer system controls the engine’s idle revolutions per minute (RPM). When the engine starts, the idle RPM runs faster to warm the engine. If the engine idle speed does not slow down automatically, have the vehicle checked. Do not allow the vehicle to idle for more than ten minutes.

Before starting the vehicle:

1. Make sure all vehicle occupants have buckled their safety belts. For more information on safety belts and their proper usage, refer to the Seating and safety restraints chapter.

2. Make sure the headlamps and vehicle accessories are off.

If starting a vehicle with an automatic transaxle:

• Make sure the parking brake is set.

• Make sure the gearshift is in P (Park).

Starting

P R

If starting a vehicle with a manual transaxle:

• Make sure the parking brake is set.

Starting

• Push the clutch pedal to the floor.

3. Turn the key to 3 (ON) without

turning the key to 4 (START).

MPH km/h

LOW FUEL

SERVICE ENGINE

SOON

FUEL FILL

SERVICE ENGINE

SOON

FUEL FILL

BRAKE

ABS

Make sure the corresponding lights illuminate briefly. If a light fails to illuminate, have the vehicle serviced.

• If the driver’s safety belt is fastened, the light (

) will not

illuminate.

100

0000000

0 0 0

100

0000000

0 0 0

120

Starting

140

100

160

110

180

200

120

140

100

160

110

180

200

120

THEFT

RPMx1000

THEFT

CHECK

+–

COOLANT

7 8

CHECK

+–

COOLANT

Starting

STARTING THE ENGINE

1. Turn the key to 4 (START)

without pressing the accelerator pedal and release as soon as the engine starts. The key will return to 3 (ON).

2. If the engine does not start

within five seconds, wait ten seconds and try again.

3. If the engine does not start in

two attempts OR if the temperature is below -12°C (10°F), depress the accelerator and start the engine while holding the accelerator down. Release the accelerator when the engine starts.

4. After idling for a few seconds,

apply the brake and release the parking brake.

Using the engine block heater (if equipped)

An engine block heater warms the engine coolant, which improves starting, warms up the engine faster and allows the heater-defroster system to respond quickly. They are strongly recommended if you live in a region where temperatures reach

-23°C (-10°F) or below.

For best results, plug the heater in at least three hours before starting the vehicle. Using the heater for longer than three hours will not

harm the engine, so the heater can be plugged in the night before starting the vehicle.

To prevent electrical

shock, do not use your heater with ungrounded electrical systems or two-pronged (cheater) adapters.

Guarding against exhaust fumes

Although odorless and colorless, carbon monoxide is present in exhaust fumes. Take precautions to avoid its dangerous effects.

If you ever smell exhaust

fumes of any kind inside your vehicle, have your dealer inspect and fix your vehicle immediately. Do not drive if you smell exhaust fumes. These fumes are harmful and could kill you.

Starting

Have the exhaust and body ventilation systems checked whenever:

• the vehicle is raised for service

• the sound of the exhaust system

changes

• the vehicle has been damaged in a collision

Starting

Important ventilating information

If the engine is idling while the vehicle is stopped in an open area for long periods of time, open the windows at least 2.5 cm (one inch).

Adjust the heating or air conditioning (if equipped) to bring in fresh air.

Improve vehicle ventilation by keeping all air inlet vents clear of snow, leaves and other debris.

BRAKES

Your brakes are self-adjusting. Refer to the “Service Guide” for scheduled maintenance.

Occasional brake noise is normal and often does not indicate a performance concern with the vehicle’s brake system. In normal operation, automotive brake systems may emit occasional or intermittent squeal or groan noises when the brakes are applied. Such noises are usually heard during the first few brake applications in the morning; however, they may be heard at any time while braking and can be aggravated by environmental conditions such as cold, heat, moisture, road dust, salt or mud. If a “metal-to-metal,” “continuous grinding” or “continuous squeal” sound is present while braking, the brake linings may be worn-out and should be inspected by a qualified service technician.

Driving

Anti-lock brake system (ABS) (if equipped)

On vehicles equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), a noise from the hydraulic pump motor and pulsation in the pedal may be observed during ABS braking events. Pedal pulsation coupled with noise while braking under panic conditions or on loose gravel, bumps, wet or snowy roads is normal and indicates proper functioning of the vehicle’s anti-lock brake system. If the

Driving

vehicle has continuous vibration or shudder while braking, felt mainly in the steering wheel, the vehicle most likely needs service.

The ABS operates by detecting the onset of wheel lock up during brake applications and compensating for this tendency. The front wheels are prevented from locking even when the brakes are firmly applied. The accompanying illustration depicts the advantage of an ABS equipped vehicle (on bottom) to a non-ABS equipped vehicle (on top) during hard braking.

ABS warning lamp

ABS

The instrument cluster illuminates for about five seconds when starting the vehicle. If an ABS fault is detected, the light will remain on and your vehicle should be serviced as soon as possible.

Normal braking is still effective unless the BRAKE warning lamp is also illuminated.

warning lamp in the

P !

BRAKE

Using ABS

• In an emergency or when maximum efficiency from the ABS is required, apply continuous full force on the brake. The ABS will be activated immediately, thus allowing you to retain full steering control of your vehicle and, providing

there is sufficient space, will enable you to avoid obstacles and bring the vehicle to a controlled stop.

• We recommend that you familiarize yourself with this braking technique. However, avoid taking any unnecessary risks.

Parking brake

Apply the parking brake whenever the vehicle is parked. To set the parking brake, pull the handle up.

The BRAKE warning lamp in the instrument cluster illuminates and remains illuminated (when the ignition is turned ON) until the parking brake is released.

The parking brake is not designed to stop a moving vehicle. However, if the normal brakes fail, the parking brake can be used to stop your vehicle in an emergency. Since the parking brake applies only the rear brakes, the vehicle’s stopping distance will be adversely affected.

Driving

P !

BRAKE

Driving

Always set the parking

brake fully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park) (automatic transaxle) or in 1 (First) (manual transaxle).

Push the control on the end of the parking brake and push the handle down to release the brake. Driving with the parking brake on will cause the brakes to wear out quickly and reduce fuel economy.

TRANSAXLE OPERATION Manual transaxle (if equipped)

Using the clutch

Vehicles equipped with a manual transaxle have a starter interrupt interlock that prevents cranking of the engine unless the clutch pedal is depressed.

When starting a vehicle with a manual transaxle, you must:

1. Put the gearshift in the neutral position.

1 24R

2. Hold down the brake pedal.

3. Depress the clutch pedal.

Driving

4. Turn the ignition key to 4 (START), then let the engine idle for a few seconds.

5. Release the brake pedal, then slowly release the clutch pedal while pressing down slowly on the accelerator pedal.

Do not drive with your foot resting

on the clutch pedal and do not use the clutch pedal to hold your vehicle at a standstill while waiting on a hill. These actions will seriously reduce clutch life.

Recommended shift speeds

Upshift according to the following charts for best fuel economy:

Sedan/Wagon

Upshifts when cruising (recommended for best fuel economy)

1-2 18 km/h (11 mph) 2-3 32 km/h (20 mph) 3-4 46 km/h (29 mph) 4-5 61 km/h (38 mph)

Driving

Parking your vehicle

1. Apply the brake and shift into the neutral position.

2. Set the parking brake.

3. Shift into 1 (First).

1 24R

Driving

4. Turn engine off and remove the key.

Do not park your vehicle

in Neutral, it may move unexpectedly and injure someone. Use 1 (First) gear and set the parking brake fully.

Reverse

Make sure that your vehicle is at a complete stop before you shift into R (Reverse). Failure to do so may damage the transaxle.

Put the gearshift into the neutral position and wait at least three seconds before shifting into R (Reverse).

You can shift into R (Reverse) only by moving the gearshift from left of 3 (Third) and 4 (Fourth) gears before you shift into R (Reverse). This is a special lockout feature which prevents you from shifting

24R

Driving

into R (Reverse) when you downshift from 5 (Fifth).

Automatic transaxle (if equipped)

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.

P (Park)

Always come to a complete stop before shifting 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.

P R

R (Reverse)

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

R N D

D L

R N D

D L

Driving

(Overdrive)

The overdrive position is the normal driving position for an automatic overdrive transaxle. It works the same way as D (Drive) but shifts to a fourth gear-an overdrive gear-when your vehicle cruises at a constant 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 terrains. If the transaxle shifts back and forth between third and fourth gears while you are driving hilly roads or if your vehicle requires additional power for climbing hills, shift into D (Drive).

D (Drive)

D (Drive) eliminates the needless shifting between third and fourth gears that your vehicle may do when driving in hilly terrain. It also gives more engine braking than overdrive to slow your vehicle on downgrades.

P R

N D D L

N D

D L

L (Low)

Use L (Low) when added engine braking is desired or when descending steep hills.

The automatic transaxle will shift into the proper gear to ascend any grade without any need to shift to L (Low).

Do not go faster than 61 km/h (38 mph) when in this gear. You can upshift from L (Low) to

(overdrive) at any time.

When parking, do not use

the gearshift in place of the parking brake. Always set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in Park (P). Turn off the ignition whenever you leave your vehicle. Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running. If you do not take these precautions, your vehicle may move unexpectedly and injure someone.

Driving

P R

Driving

VEHICLE LOADING

Before loading a vehicle, familiarize yourself with the following terms:

• Base Curb Weight: Weight of the vehicle including any standard equipment, fluids, lubricants, etc. It does not include passengers or aftermarket equipment.

• Payload: Combined maximum allowable weight of cargo, passengers and optional equipment. The payload equals the gross vehicle weight rating minus base curb weight.

• GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight): Base curb weight plus payload weight. The GVW is not a limit or a specification.

• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): Maximum total weight

of the base vehicle, passengers, optional equipment and cargo. The GVWR is specific to each vehicle and is listed on the Safety Compliance Label on the driver’s door pillar.

• GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating): Carrying capacity for

each axle system. The GAWR is specific to each vehicle and is listed on the Safety Compliance Label on the driver’s door pillar.

• GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating): Maximum

combined weight of towing vehicle (including passengers and cargo) and the trailer. The

GCWR indicates the maximum loaded weight that the vehicle is allowed to tow.

• Maximum Trailer Weight Rating: Maximum weight of a

trailer the vehicle is permitted to tow. The maximum trailer weight rating equals the vehicle curb weight for each engine/transmission combination, any required option weight for trailer towing and the weight of the driver from the GCWR for the towing vehicle.

• Maximum Trailer Weight: maximum weight of a trailer the loaded vehicle (including passengers and cargo) is permitted to tow. It is determined by subtracting the weight of the loaded trailer towing vehicle from the GCWR for the towing vehicle.

• Trailer Weight Range: Specified weight range that the trailer must fall within that ranges from zero to the maximum trailer weight rating.

Remember to figure in the tongue load of your loaded trailer when figuring the total weight.

Driving

Do not exceed the GVWR

or the GAWR specified on the Safety Compliance Certification Label.

Driving

Do not use replacement tires with lower weight capacities than the originals because they may lower the vehicle’s GVWR and GAWR limitations. Replacement tires with a higher weight limit than the originals do not increase the GVWR and GAWR limitations.

TRAILER TOWING

Your vehicle is capable of towing a trailer up to 454 kg (1 000 lbs.) gross trailer weight with a maximum tongue load of 45 kg (100 lbs.). Do not tow a trailer until your vehicle has been driven at least 800 km (500 miles).

Towing a trailer places an additional load on your vehicle’s engine, transaxle, brakes, tires and suspension. Inspect these components carefully after towing.

Do not exceed the GVWR

or the GAWR specified on the Safety Compliance Certification Label.

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.

Preparing to tow

Use the proper equipment for towing a trailer, and make sure it is properly attached to your vehicle. See your dealer or a reliable trailer dealer if you require assistance.

Hitches

Do not use hitches that clamp onto the vehicle bumper. Use a load carrying hitch. You must distribute the load in your trailer so that 10 – 15% of the total weight of the trailer is on the tongue.

Safety chains

Always connect the trailer’s safety chains to the vehicle. To connect the trailer’s safety chains, cross the chains under the trailer tongue and allow slack for turning corners.

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

Trailer brakes

Electric brakes and manual, automatic or surge-type brakes are safe if installed properly and adjusted to the manufacturer’s specifications. The trailer brakes must meet local and Federal regulations.

Driving

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.

Trailer lamps

Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure your trailer lamps conform to local and Federal regulations. See your dealer or trailer rental agency for proper instructions and equipment for hooking up trailer lamps.

Driving while you tow

Do not drive faster than 88 km/h (55 mph) when towing a trailer.

Speed control may shut off if you are towing on long, steep grades.

When towing a trailer:

• Use D (Drive) or a lower gear when towing up or down steep hills. This will eliminate excessive downshifting and upshifting for optimum fuel economy and transmission cooling.

• Anticipate stops and brake gradually.

100

Ford Tracer 1998 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Introduction

Instrumentation

Controls and features

Seating and safety restraints

Starting

Driving