Mercury Sable 1998 Owner's Manual

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Page 1

Contents

Before driving

Introduction 2

Instrumentation 4

Controls and features 15

Seating and safety restraints 54

Starting and driving

Starting 84

Driving 89

Roadside emergencies 108

Servicing

Maintenance and care 127

Capacities and specifications 173

Reporting safety defects 181

Index 182

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.

Copyrightr1998 Ford Motor Company

Page 2

Introduction

ICONS

Indicates a safety alert. Read the following section on Warnings .

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.

Indicates a message regarding child safety restraints. Refer to

Seating and safety restraints for more information.

Indicates that this Owner Guide contains information on this subject. Please refer to the Index to locate the appropriate section which will provide you more information.

Page 3

Introduction

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.

Page 4

Instrumentation

Headlamp control (pg. 15)

SERVICE ENGINE

SOON

FUEL DOOR>

Instrument cluster (pg. 6)

LOW

THEFT

COOLANT

20 10

MPH km/h

P R N D 2 1

00000

+–

000

100

345

140

100

110

180

120

RPMx1000

PREMIUM UNLEADED FUEL RECOMMENDED

BRAKE

O/D

REAR

CRUISE

ABS

OFF

LAMP

OUT

Trunk release (pg. 40)

*if equipped

Parking brake release (pg. 91)

Driver side air bag (pg. 66)

Turn signal and wiper/washer control (pg. 32)

Speed control* (pg. 28)

Page 5

Instrumentation

Electronic sound system; refer to Audio Guide (pg. 27)

FM 12 AMC

BL RF

VOL

PUSH-ON

SEEK

SCAN

TUNE

BASS

EJECT

OFF

VENT

A/C MAX A/C

TREB

REW

BAL

TAPE SIDE

TAPE

R-DEF

Gearshift (pg. 93)

Passenger side air bag (pg. 67)

FADE

Climate control systems (pg. 17)

Page 6

Instrumentation

WARNING LIGHTS AND CHIMES

000

FUEL DOOR>

SERVICE ENGINE

SOON

LOW

THEFT

COOLANT

100

00000

MPH km/h

P R N D 2 1

+–

140

100 110

180

120

O/D OFF

RPMx1000

UNLEADED FUEL ONLY

BRAKE

CRUISE

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 bulbs in the Maintenance and care chapter.

High beams

Illuminates when the high beam headlamps are turned on.

Safety belt

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

Door ajar

Illuminates when the ignition is in the ON or START position and any door is open.

Page 7

Instrumentation

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 (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.

SERVICE

ENGINE

SOON

Page 8

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.

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.

Low coolant (if equipped)

This lamp will illuminate when the engine coolant inside the reservoir is low.

LOW

COOLANT

Page 9

Instrumentation

This lamp will come on when the ignition is first turned on, but then should turn off. If the lamp stays on, you should check the coolant level inside the reservoir. For instructions on adding coolant, see Engine coolant in the Maintenance and care chapter.

Anti-theft system (if equipped)

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

O/D off (if equipped)

Illuminates when the transmission control switch has been pushed. When the light is on, the transmission does not shift into overdrive. If the light does not come on when the transmission control switch is depressed or if the light flashes when you are driving, have your vehicle serviced.

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

Momentarily illuminates when the ignition is turned on and the engine is off. If the light does not illuminate momentarily at start up, remains on or continues to flash, the ABS needs to be serviced. With the ABS light on, the anti-lock brake system is disabled and normal braking is still effective unless the brake warning light also remains illuminated with parking brake released.

THEFT

O/D

OFF

ABS

Page 10

Instrumentation

Speed control (if equipped)

This light comes on when either the SET/ACCEL or RESUME controls are pressed. It turns off when the speed control OFF control is pressed, the brake is applied or the ignition is turned to the OFF position.

Brake system warning

Momentarily illuminates when the ignition is turned to the ON position and the engine is off. If brake warning lamp does not illuminate at this time, seek service immediately. Also illuminates when the parking brake is engaged. Illumination after releasing the parking brake indicates low brake fluid level and the brake system should be inspected immediately.

Engine oil pressure

Illuminates when the oil pressure falls below the normal range. Stop the vehicle as soon as safely possible and 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.

CRUISE

BRAKE

Charging system

Illuminates when the ignition is turned to the ON position and the engine is off. The light also illuminates when the battery is not

Page 11

Instrumentation

charging properly, requiring electrical system service.

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.

Low washer fluid

Illuminates when the ignition is turned to ON and when the windshield washer fluid is low.

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.

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.

Page 12

Instrumentation

GAUGES

FUEL DOOR>

SERVICE

ENGINE

SOON

LOW

THEFT

COOLANT

Speedometer

Indicates the current vehicle speed.

Tachometer

Indicates the engine speed in revolutions per minute.

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

00000

MPH km/h

P R N D 2 1

000

100

140

180

100 110

120

+–

RPMx1000

UNLEADED FUEL ONLY

O/D OFF

000

100

00000

MPH km/h

P R N D 2 1

BRAKE

CRUISE

ABS

140

100

110

180

120

RPMx1000

UNLEADED FUEL ONLY

Page 13

Instrumentation

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 as soon as safely possible, switch off the engine immediately and let the engine cool. Refer to Engine coolant in the Maintenance and care chapter.

Never remove the coolant reservoir 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 the gauge indication will not be accurate.

Odometer

Registers the total kilometers (miles) of the vehicle.

000

100

00000

MPH km/h

P R N D 2 1

140

100

110

180

120

Page 14

Instrumentation

Trip odometer

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

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. 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.

000

100

00000

MPH km/h

P R N D 2 1

140

100

110

180

120

Page 15

Controls and features

HEADLAMP CONTROL

Rotate the headlamp control 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 and

• the headlamp control is in the OFF or Parking

lamps position.

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.

PANEL

DIM

AUTO LAMP

High beams

Push forward to activate.

Page 16

Controls and features

Flash to pass

Pull toward you to activate and release to deactivate.

PANEL DIMMER CONTROL

Use to adjust the brightness of the instrument panel during headlamp and parklamp operation.

• Rotate up to brighten.

• Rotate down to dim.

AUTOLAMP CONTROL

The autolamp system provides light sensitive automatic on-off control of the exterior lights normally controlled by the headlamp control.

The autolamp system also keeps the lights on for a preselected period of time after the ignition switch is turned to OFF.

• To turn autolamps on, rotate the control up. The preselected time lapse is adjustable up to approximately three minutes by continuing to rotate the control upward.

PANEL

DIM

PANEL

DIM

AUTO LAMP

Page 17

Controls and features

• To turn autolamps off, rotate the control down until it clicks.

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.

CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM Manual heating and air conditioning system

(if equipped)

R-DEF

OFF

VENT

A/C

MAX

A/C

R-DEF

Fan speed control

Controls the volume of air circulated in the vehicle.

Page 18

Controls and features

Temperature control knob

Controls the temperature of the airflow inside the vehicle.

Mode selector control

OFF

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

The air conditioning compressor will operate in all modes except VENT 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 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

VENT

A/C

MAX

A/C

Page 19

Controls and features

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.

-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.

Page 20

Controls and features

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 the air conditioner works well in MAX A/C, but not in A/C, this may indicate that the cabin air filter (if equipped) needs to be replaced.

• 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.

Page 21

Controls and features

Electronic Automatic Temperature Control (EATC) system (if equipped)

VENT

OFF

MAX

AUTO

A/C

TEMP

OUT

SIDE

—+

F-DEF

R-DEF

—+

TEMP

AUTO

The EATC system will maintain a selected temperature and automatically control airflow. You can override automatic operation with any of the override controls or the fan speed control.

Turning the EATC on

VENT

OFF

MAX

AUTO

A/C

TEMP

OUT SIDE

—+

F-DEF

R-DEF

—+

TEMP

AUTO

Press AUTO, any of the override controls or the fan speed control. The EATC will only operate when the ignition is in the ON position.

Turning the EATC off

Press OFF. The Outside Temperature function will continue to operate until the ignition is turned off.

VENT

OFF

MAX

AUTO

A/C

TEMP

OUT

SIDE

Page 22

Controls and features

Automatic operation

Press AUTO and select the desired temperature. The selected temperature and the word AUTO will appear in the display window. The EATC system will either heat or cool to achieve the selected temperature. The system will automatically determine fan speed, airflow location and if fresh outside air or recirculated air is required. Fan speed remains automatic unless the fan speed control is pressed.

When in AUTO and weather conditions require heat, air will be sent to the floor. However, if the engine is not warm enough to provide heat, the fan will be at a low speed and the air will be directed to the windshield. In 3½ minutes or less, the fan speed will start to increase and the airflow location will change to the floor area.

If unusual conditions exist (i.e.-window fogging, etc.), the manual override controls allow you to select airflow locations and the fan control allows you to adjust fan speed as necessary.

Temperature selection

The display window indicates the selected temperature, function (AUTO or one of the override controls) and manual control of fan speed (

)if

automatic fan speed is not desired. To control the

temperature, select any temperature between 18°C (65°F) and 29°C (85°F) by pressing the temperature control.

AUTO

FAN

—+

F-DEF

R-DEF

• • •

—+

TEMP

Page 23

Controls and features

For continuous maximum cooling, push the temperature control until 16°C (60°F) is shown in the display window. The EATC will continue maximum cooling (disregarding the displayed temperature) until a warmer temperature is selected by pressing the temperature control.

For continuous maximum heating, push the temperature control until 32°C (90°F) is shown in the display window. The EATC will continue maximum heating (disregarding the displayed temperature) until a cooler temperature is selected by pressing the temperature control.

Temperature conversion

—+

F-DEF

R-DEF

—+

TEMP

AUTO

VENT

OFF

MAX

AUTO

A/C

TEMP

OUT SIDE

Press MAX A/C and F-DEF at the same time (until the display changes) to switch between Fahrenheit and Celsius.

Fan speed ( )

When AUTO is pressed, fan speed is adjusted automatically for existing conditions. You can override fan

—+

F-DEF

R-DEF

—+

TEMP

speed at any time. To control fan speed manually, press the fan control to cancel automatic fan speed operation. Press the control up for higher fan speed or down for lower fan speed.

Page 24

Controls and features

The display will show

and a bar graph to

AUTO

indicate manual fan operation and relative speed.

FAN

• • •

To return to automatic fan operation, press AUTO.

Manual override controls

VENT

OFF

MAX

AUTO

A/C

TEMP

OUT SIDE

—+

F-DEF

R-DEF

—+

TEMP

AUTO

The override controls are located at the bottom of the EATC and allow you to determine where airflow is directed. To return to full automatic control, press AUTO.

The air conditioning compressor will operate in all modes except

and VENT. It will also operate only when required when AUTO has been selected. However, the air conditioning will only function if the outside temperature is about 10°C (50°F) or above.

Page 25

Controls and features

• MAX A/C-Uses recirculated air to cool the vehicle.

The temperature will remain unchanged and air will be cooled based on the selected temperature. To exit, press AUTOMATIC or any other override controls. MAX A/C is noisier than normal A/C but more economical and will cool the inside of the vehicle faster. Airflow is from the instrument panel registers. This mode can also be used to prevent undesirable odors from entering the vehicle.

• VENT-Distributes outside air through the

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

•

-Distributes outside air through the instrument panel registers and the floor ducts. Heating and air conditioning capabilities are provided in this mode. The air will be heated or cooled based on the temperature selection. For added customer comfort, the air distributed through the floor ducts will be slightly warmer than the air sent to the instrument panel registers.

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

-Distributes outside air through the windshield defroster ducts and the floor ducts. Heating and air conditioning capabilities are provided in this mode. The air will be heated or cooled based on the temperature selection. For added customer comfort, the air distributed through the floor ducts will be slightly warmer than the air sent to the windshield defroster ducts. If the temperature is about 10°C (50°F) or higher, the air conditioner will automatically dehumidify the air to prevent fogging.

Page 26

Controls and features

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

• 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.

Displaying outside temperature

Press OUTSIDE TEMP to display the outside air temperature. It will be displayed until OUTSIDE TEMP is pressed again or until any other control is pressed. When the EATC system is off and OUTSIDE TEMP is pressed, the outside temperature will only be displayed for four seconds.

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

• In humid weather, select F-DEF 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.

VENT

OFF

MAX

AUTO

A/C

TEMP

OUT

SIDE

Page 27

Controls and features

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

• If the air conditioner works well in MAX A/C but not in normal A/C, this may indicate that the cabin air filter (if equipped) needs to be replaced.

AUDIO SYSTEM

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

Page 28

Controls and features

POSITIONS OF THE IGNITION

1. ACCESSORY, allows

the electrical

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

2. LOCK, locks the

steering wheel, automatic transmission gearshift lever and allows key removal.

3. OFF, shuts off the engine and all accessories

without locking the steering wheel.

4. ON, all electrical circuits operational. Warning

lights illuminated. Key position when driving.

5. START, cranks the engine. Release the key as

soon as the engine starts.

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

unpaved.

Do not use the speed control in heavy traffic or on roads that are winding, slippery, or

Do not shift the gearshift lever into N (Neutral) with the speed control on.

Page 29

Controls and features

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).

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.

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.

RESUME

SET

ACCEL

COAST

OFF

Do not use the speed control in heavy traffic or on roads that are winding, slippery, or

unpaved.

Page 30

Controls and features

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. When the desired vehicle speed is reached, 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.

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.

RESUME

SET

ACCEL

COAST

RESUME

SET

ACCEL

COAST

RESUME

SET

ACCEL

COAST

Page 31

Controls and features

To disengage speed control

• Depress the brake pedal.

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

Pressing OFF will erase the previously programmed set speed.

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).

COAST

RESUME

SET

ACCEL

OFF

Indicator light

CRUISE

This light comes on when either the SET ACC/SET ACCEL or RES/RSM/RESUME controls are pressed. It turns off when the speed control OFF control is pressed, the brake is applied or the ignition is turned to the OFF position.

Page 32

Controls and features

TURN SIGNAL CONTROL

• Push down to activate the left turn signal.

• Push up to activate the right turn signal.

WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER CONTROLS

Rotate the windshield wiper control to the desired interval, low or high speed position.

The bars of varying length are for intermittent wipers. When in this position rotate the control upward for fast intervals and downward for slow intervals.

Push the control on the end of the stalk to activate washer. Push and hold for a longer wash cycle. The washer will automatically shut off after ten seconds of continuous use.

HI LO

OFF

HI LO

OFF

Rear window wiper and washer (wagon only)

The rear wiper control is located under the headlamp controls Press the wiper control to activate the rear wiper. Press again to turn off the wiper.

Page 33

Controls and features

Press the washer control to activate the rear washer. The wiper will come on when the washer control is pressed, if it is not already on.

Mist Function

To operate the Mist function of the windshield wipers, push and release the windshield washer control quickly. The wipers will cycle one or two times.

HAZARD FLASHER

For information on the hazard flasher control, refer to Hazard lights control in the Roadside emergencies chapter.

TILT STEERING

Pull the tilt steering control toward you to move the steering wheel up or down. Hold the control while adjusting the wheel to the desired position, then release the control.

HI LO

OFF

Never adjust the steering wheel when the vehicle is moving.

Page 34

Controls and features

ILLUMINATED VISOR MIRROR (IF EQUIPPED)

To turn on the visor mirror lamps, lift the mirror cover. Adjust the amount of light by sliding the control.

MOON ROOF (IF EQUIPPED)

SLIDE

LIGHT

TILT

AUTO

LIGHT

OFF DOOR ON

Press SLIDE to open and close the moon roof. Press AUTO and release to open completely with one touch.

Press UP or DN on the TILT control to tilt the moon roof when closed.

Dome lamps and map lamps

The front dome lamp is located overhead between the driver and passenger seats. If the vehicle is equipped with a moon roof, the dome lamp is located behind the moon roof.

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

The dome lamp will illuminate whenever a front door is opened. If either front door has been opened from the outside, the lamp will remain on for 25 seconds after the door is shut. If any other door has been opened from the inside, the lamp will shut off immediately after the door is closed.

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Controls and features

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

If equipped with a moon roof, the map

TILT

SLIDE

lamps are located on the moon roof control panel. Press LIGHT to

LIGHT

illuminate the map lamp.

POWER WINDOWS

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

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

AUTO

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

AUTO

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Controls and features

One touch down

• Press AUTO completely down and release quickly. The window will open fully. Depress

AUTO

again to stop window operation.

Window lock

The window lock

WINDOW LOCK

feature allows only the driver to operate the power windows.

To lock out all the window controls except for the driver’s press the right side of the control. Press the left side to restore the window controls.

POWER DOOR LOCKS (IF EQUIPPED)

Press U to unlock all doors and L to lock all doors.

U L

Central locking/Two step unlocking (if equipped)

When unlocking the driver or front passenger door with the key, turn it once toward the front of the vehicle to unlock that door only. Turn the key a second time to unlock all doors. When locking, turn the key toward the back of the vehicle to lock all doors.

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Controls and features

Liftgate (wagon only)

The power liftgate lock is located on the right inside trim panel in the cargo area. When this lock is pressed, all doors and the liftgate will lock.

POWER SIDE VIEW MIRRORS

To adjust your mirrors:

1. Select

the right mirror.

2. Move the control in

the direction you wish to tilt the mirror.

to adjust the left mirror or to adjust

3. Return to the center position to lock mirrors in

place.

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Controls and features

Heated outside mirrors (if equipped)

Both mirrors are heated automatically to remove ice, mist and fog when the rear window defrost is activated.

Do not remove ice from the mirrors with a scraper or attempt to readjust the mirror glass if it is frozen in place. These actions could cause damage to the glass and mirrors.

CHILDPROOF DOOR LOCKS

When these locks are set, the rear doors cannot be opened from the inside. The rear doors can be opened from the outside when the doors are unlocked.

The childproof locks are located on rear edge of each rear door and must be set separately for each door. Setting the lock for one door will not automatically set the lock for both doors.

Move lock control up to engage the lock. Move control down to disengage childproof locks.

CENTER CONSOLE

Your vehicle may be equipped with a variety of console features. These include:

• utility compartment

• cupholders

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Controls and features

• coin holder slots

• cellular phone (if equipped)

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

If your vehicle is equipped with the column shift, it has a center console in the center front seating position.

The center console has the same features as the full console. To open the storage compartment, raise the armrest and pull the strap on the seat up and toward the front of the vehicle. The cupholders in the center console can be removed for cleaning.

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

Cellular phone

Refer to the “Cellular phone guide” for instructions on 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.

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Controls and features

TRUNK REMOTE CONTROL

Press the remote trunk release control on the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel.

LIFTGATE (WAGON ONLY)

You can open the entire liftgate or just the liftgate window. To open the entire liftgate, press the release button hidden under the exterior trim panel just above the license plate.

You must lock the liftgate with the key or power lock control; it does not lock automatically.

The window locks when the liftgate is locked. To open the window, make sure the liftgate and window are unlocked, then press the outside lock cylinder. The window can only be opened from the outside.

To prevent any damage to the liftgate and window, close them completely before driving.

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Controls and features

CARGO AREA FEATURES Storage compartment

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

Cargo net (if equipped)

The cargo net secures lightweight objects in the cargo area. Attach the net to the anchors provided. Do not put more than 22 kg (50 lbs.) in the net. This net is not designed to restrain objects during a collision.

Cargo cover (if equipped)

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

To install the shade:

1. Fasten the cover

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

2. Pull the end of the

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

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Controls and features

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.

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.

Rewinding the shade

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

1. Remove the shade from the vehicle and extend it with the smooth grain facing you.

2. Wrap the vinyl around the roller tube twice. Tuck the edges of the vinyl inside the end cap with each wrap.

3. Fold the edges of the vinyl towards the center, making sure that the edges clear the end cap slots. Use tape or a rubber band to hold the vinyl to the left side of the tube.

4. Push in the right end cap (marked RH) about ¼ of the total length to disengage the clutch and hold the end cap in while turning the roller tube toward you 14 times.

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Controls and features

5. Let go of the right end cap. The clutch will now engage and stop the shade from losing its spring tension.

6. Unfold the vinyl and place it into the end cap slots.

7. Insert the shade into the side mounting brackets and check to make sure that it operates properly.

The cover may cause injury in a sudden stop

or accident if it is not securely installed.

REMOTE ENTRY SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)

The remote entry system allows you to lock or unlock all vehicle doors and liftgate without a key.

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.

Press the control a second time within five seconds to unlock all doors.

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Controls and features

Locking the doors

Press this control to lock all doors.

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

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

Unlocking the liftgate/trunk

Press the control to unlock the liftgate/trunk.

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.

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Controls and features

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

Illuminated entry

The interior lamps illuminate when the remote entry system is used to unlock the door(s) or sound the personal alarm.

The system automatically turns off after 25 seconds or when the ignition is turned to the RUN or ACC position. The dome lamp control (if equipped) must not be set to the OFF position for the illuminated entry system to operate.

The inside lights will not turn off if:

• they have been turned on with the dimmer control or

• any door is open.

The battery saver will shut off the interior lamps 40 minutes after the ignition has been turned to the OFF position.

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 turn from OFF to ON five times in rapid succession (within 10 seconds). After doors lock/unlock, press any control on all transmitters (up to four). When completed, turn the ignition to OFF.

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Controls and features

The doors will lock/unlock one last time to confirm completion of program mode.

All transmitters must be programmed at the same time.

Replacing the battery

The transmitter is powered by one coin type three-volt lithium battery CR2032 or equivalent. 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 weakness due to time and use

• weather conditions

• nearby radio towers

• structures around the vehicle

• other vehicles parked next to the vehicle

To replace the battery:

1. Twist a thin coin

between the two halves of the transmitter near the key ring. DO NOT TAKE THE FRONT PART OF THE TRANSMITTER APART.

2. Place the positive

(+) side of new battery in the same orientation. Refer to the diagram inside the transmitter unit.

3. Snap the two halves back together.

Replacement of the battery will not cause the remote transmitter to become deprogrammed from your vehicle. The remote transmitter should operate normally after battery replacement.

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Controls and features

PERIMETER ALARM SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED) Arming the system

When armed, this system will help protect your vehicle from unauthorized entry. When unauthorized entry occurs, the system will flash the headlamps and/or parking lamps, and the theft indicator lamp and will chirp the horn.

The system is ready to arm whenever the ignition is turned OFF. Any of the following actions will prearm the alarm system:

• Press the remote entry lock control (doors opened or closed).

• Press 7/8 and 9/0 controls on the keyless entry pad at the same time to lock the doors (doors opened or closed).

• Open a door and press the power door lock control to lock the doors.

• Use the door key to lock the doors (doors opened or closed).

If a door or the liftgate (wagon) is open, the system is prearmed and is waiting for the door to close or liftgate to close. The THEFT indicator in the instrument cluster will be lit continuously when the system is prearmed.

1 234567890

THEFT

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Controls and features

Once the doors and liftgate (wagon) are closed, the system will arm in 30 seconds.

When you press the lock control twice within 5 seconds on your remote entry transmitter, the horn will chirp once to let you know that the system is armed.

If the doors or liftgate (wagon) are not closed and you press the remote entry transmitter twice to confirm the doors are locked, the horn will chirp twice to warn you that the system is not arming.

Disarming the system

You can disarm the system by any of the following actions:

• Unlock the doors by using your remote entry transmitter.

• Unlock the doors by using your keyless entry pad.

• Unlock the doors or liftgate with a key. Turn the key full travel (toward the front of the vehicle) to make sure the alarm disarms.

• Turn ignition to ACC or ON.

1 234567890

Page 49

Controls and features

• Press control on the remote entry transmitter. This will disarm the system when the alarm is sounding.

KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM

With the keyless entry keypad, you can:

• lock or unlock the vehicle doors and liftgate (wagons) without using the key.

• arm and disarm the perimeter alarm system (if equipped)

See also Remote entry system and Perimeter alarm system in this chapter for more information.

Your vehicle has a factory-set 5–digit code that operates the keyless entry system. You can also program your own 5–digit personal entry code.

The factory-set code is located:

• on the owner’s wallet card in the glove compartment

• taped to the computer module

When pressing the controls on the keyless entry keypad, press the middle of the controls to ensure a good activation.

1 234567890

Page 50

Controls and features

Programming your own personal entry code

1. Enter the factory-set code (keypad will illuminate

when pressed).

2. Press the 1/2 control

within five seconds of step 1.

3. Enter your personal

5 digit code. Enter each digit within five seconds of the previous one.

Do not set a code that includes five of the same number or presents them in sequential order. Thieves can easily figure out these types of codes.

Your personal code does not replace the permanent code that the dealership gave you. You can use either code to unlock your vehicle. If a second personal code is entered, the module will erase the first personal code in favor of the new code.

If you wish to erase your personal code, use the following instructions:

Erasing personal code

1. Enter the factory-set code.

2. Press 1/2 within five

seconds of step 1.

3. Press the 7/8 and 9/0

controls at the same time within five seconds of step two.

The system will now only respond to the factory-set code.

1 234567890

Page 51

Controls and features

Unlocking the doors and releasing the trunk with the keyless entry system

The driver’s door must be unlocked before any other. If more than five seconds pass between pressing numbers, enter the code again. The system has shut down if the keypad light is out. If the keyless entry system does not work, use the key or remote entry transmitter(s).

1. To unlock the driver’s door, enter one of the two

codes. After pressing the fifth number, the driver’s door unlocks.

2. To unlock the

passenger’s door(s) and liftgate (wagon), press the 3/4 control within five seconds of unlocking the driver’s door.

3. To unlock the trunk

or liftgate (wagon), enter the five-digit factory-set code, then press the 5/6 control within five seconds.

1 234567890

Autolock

Autolock is a feature that will automatically lock all doors when:

• all vehicle doors, liftgate and liftgate window are fully closed

• the ignition key is in the ON position

• you shift into or through R (Reverse)

• the brake pedal is released

The autolock feature repeats when:

• any door is opened and then closed

• the brake pedal is released

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Controls and features

Deactivating autolock

Before following the activation or deactivation procedures, make sure that the anti-theft system is not armed, the ignition is OFF and all vehicle doors and liftgate window are closed.

1. Enter the 5 digit entry code.

2. Press and release

the 3/4 control while holding the 7/8 control.

3. Release the 7/8

control. The horn will chirp

once if autolock was deactivated or twice (one short and one long chirp) if autolock was activated.

To reactivate autolock, repeat steps 1 through 3. Autolock can also be activated or deactivated using

the following procedure: You must complete steps 1 through 5 within 30

seconds or the procedure will have to be repeated. If the procedure needs to be repeated, you must wait 30 seconds.

1. Turn the ignition key from OFF to RUN/ACC.

2. Press the power door UNLOCK control three

times.

3. Turn the ignition key from RUN/ACC to OFF.

4. Press the power door UNLOCK control three

times.

5. Turn the ignition key from OFF to RUN/ACC. A

horn chirp indicates the enable/disable feature is entered.

6. Press the power door UNLOCK control one time.

7. Press the power door LOCK control to toggle the

Autolock/Relock state. You will receive a horn chirp followed by either a long honk, autolock/relock is enabled, or no honk, autolock/relock is disabled.

8. Turn ignition to OFF.

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Page 53

Controls and features

If autolock/relock has been changed, the horn will chirp to confirm procedure is complete.

SECURILOCKY ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM

The SecuriLocky anti-theft system provides an advanced level of vehicle theft protection. Your vehicle’s engine can only be started with the two special SecuriLocky electronically coded keys provided with your vehicle. Each time you start your vehicle, the SecuriLocky key is read by the SecuriLocky anti-theft system. If the SecuriLocky key identification code matches the code stored in the SecuriLocky anti-theft system, the vehicle’s engine is allowed to start. If the SecuriLocky key identification code does not match the code stored in the system or if a SecuriLocky key is not detected (vehicle theft situation), the vehicle’s engine will not operate.

Spare SecuriLocky keys can be purchased from your dealership and programmed to your SecuriLocky anti-theft system. Refer to Programming spare SecuriLocky keys for more information.

If one or both of your SecuriLocky keys are lost or stolen and you want to ensure the lost or stolen key will not operate your vehicle, bring your vehicle and all available SecuriLocky keys to your dealership for reinitialization.

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Seating and safety restraints

SEATING Head restraints

Push or pull the head rests to the desired position.

Adjusting the front manual seat

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.

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.

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Seating and safety restraints

Pull lever up to adjust seatback.

Adjusting the power seats (if equipped)

Never adjust the driver’s seat or seatback when the vehicle is moving.

Press to move front or rear of seat up and down.

Press to raise or lower the seat, or to move the seat forward or backward.

Using the power lumbar support (if equipped)

The power lumbar control is located on the outboard side of the seat.

Press one side of the control to adjust firmness.

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Seating and safety restraints

Press the other side of the control to adjust softness.

REAR SEATS 2nd seat/Split-folding rear seat (if equipped)

One or both rear seatbacks can be folded down to provide additional cargo space.

To lower the seatback(s) from inside the vehicle, pull tab to release seat back and then fold seatback down.

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

3rd seat (wagon only)

The third seat faces the rear of the vehicle. For height and weight limits, see the label on the seat cushion. When the seat is down, the back of your wagon has a flat surface for carrying cargo.

To open up the seat:

1. Unlock the floor

panel with the key, then use the handle to fold the floor panel toward the front of the car.

2. Remove the cargo

cover. The cargo cover must be removed or the seatback will not latch in the upright position.

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Seating and safety restraints

3. Lift the remote latch

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

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

SAFETY RESTRAINTS 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.

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Seating and safety restraints

All occupants of the vehicle, including the

driver, should always properly wear their safety belts, even when an air bag SRS is provided.

It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo

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

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. Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle until you hear a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the tongue is securely fastened in the buckle.

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Seating and safety restraints

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

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

Vehicle sensitive mode

The vehicle sensitive mode is the normal retractor mode, allowing free shoulder belt length adjustment to your movements and locking in response to vehicle movement. For example, if the driver brakes suddenly or turns a corner sharply, or the vehicle receives an impact of 8 km/h (5 mph) or more, the combination safety belts will lock to help reduce forward movement of the driver and passengers.

Automatic locking mode

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

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

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.

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Seating and safety restraints

How to use the automatic locking mode

• Buckle the combination lap and shoulder belt.

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

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Seating and safety restraints

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.

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.

Center rear lap belt (sedan)

The safety belt in the center rear seating position has a detachable shoulder belt and does not contain the automatic locking mode (ALR).

To attach the shoulder belt to the lap belt, pull the shoulder belt out from the retractor in the seatback and insert into the lap belt connecting pin into the wide end of the key slot on the shoulder belt. Pull the connecting pin into the narrow end of the key slot until you hear a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the shoulder belt is securely fastened to the lap belt by pulling up on the shoulder belt.

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Seating and safety restraints

Lap belts

Adjusting the lap belt

The lap belt does not adjust automatically.

The lap belts should fit snugly and as low as

possible around the hips, not around the 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.

Shorten and fasten the belt when not in use.

Safety belts for rear-facing occupants (wagon only)

Never use child safety seats in the third seat

of a wagon.

Your vehicle is equipped with safety belts containing an adjust tongue at the rear-facing seating positions.

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Seating and safety restraints

When the adjust tongue of the lap/shoulder combination seat belt is latched into the buckle, the tongue will allow the lap portion to become shorter, but locks the webbing in place to restrict it from becoming longer.

Before you reach and latch a combination lap and shoulder belt having an adjust tongue into the buckle, you may have to lengthen the lap belt portion of it. To lengthen the lap belt, pull some webbing out of the shoulder belt retractor. While holding the webbing below the tongue, grasp the tongue so that it is parallel to the webbing and slide the tongue upward. Provide enough length so that the tongue can reach the buckle.

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

The lap belts should fit snugly and as low as

possible around the hips, not around the waist.

Front and rear seat occupants, including

pregnant women, should wear safety belts for optimum protection in an accident.

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Seating and safety restraints

Each seating position in your vehicle has a

Due to folding rear seats, sometimes the buckles and tongues toward the center of the vehicle may be hidden by the rear edge of the seat cushion. Pull them out so they will be accessible.

While you are fastened in the seat belt, the shoulder belt adjusts to your movement. However, if you brake hard, turn hard or your vehicle receives an impact of 8 km/h (5 mph) or more, the safety belt will become locked and help reduce your forward movement.

To unfasten the belt, push the red release button on the end of the buckle. This allows the tongue to unlatch from the buckle. While the belt retracts, guide the tongue to its original position to prevent it from striking you or the vehicle.

Safety belt 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.

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Seating and safety restraints

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.

Conditions of operation

If... Then...

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

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

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

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 and warning chime turn off.

The safety belt warning light and indicator chime remain off.

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Seating and safety restraints

Safety belt maintenance

Inspect the safety belt systems periodically to make sure they work properly and are not damaged. Inspect the safety belts to make sure there are no nicks, wears or cuts, replacing if necessary. 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. Safety belt assemblies not in use during a collision should also be inspected and replaced if either damage or improper operation is noted.

Failure to inspect and if necessary replace

the safety belt asembly 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.

AIR BAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)

+–

000

345

100

FUEL DOOR>

140

RPMx1000

00000

100

EFC

SERVICE ENGINE

SOON

LOW

THEFT

COOLANT

PREMIUM UNLEADED

110

180

FUEL RECOMMENDED

BRAKE

MPH km/h

O/D

REAR

CRUISE

ABS

120

OFF

LAMP OUT

P R N D 2 1

FM 12 AMC

BL RF

BASS

VOL

PUSH-ON

TUNE

TREB

EJECT

REW

SEEK

SCAN

BAL

FADE

TAPE SIDE

TAPE

R-DEF

OFF

VENT A/C MAX A/C

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Seating and safety restraints

Important supplemental restraint system (SRS) precautions

The supplemental restraint system is designed to work with the safety belt to help protect the driver and right front passenger from certain upper body injuries.

Air bags DO NOT inflate slowly or gently and the risk of injury from a deploying air bag is greatest close to the trim covering the air bag module.

All occupants of the vehicle including the driver should always properly wear their

safety belts even when air bag SRS is provided.

Always transport children 12 years old and under in the back seat and always use

appropriate child restraints.

NHTSA recommends a minimum distance of at least 25.4 cm (ten [10] inches) between

an occupant’s chest and the air bag module.

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Seating and safety restraints

Steps you can take to properly position yourself away from the airbag:

• Move your seat to the rear as far as you can while still reaching the pedals comfortably.

• Recline the seat one or two notches from the upright position.

The right front passenger air bag is not designed to restrain occupants in the center

front seating position.

Do not put anything on or over the air bag

module. Placing objects on or over the air bag inflation area may cause those objects to be propelled by the air bag into your face and torso causing serious injury.

Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify

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

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Seating and safety restraints

Children and air bags

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

Children must always be properly restrained. Accident statistics suggest that children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating position. Failure to follow these instructions may increase the risk of injury in a collision.

Air bags can kill or injure a child in a child

seat. NEVER place a rear-facing child seat in front of an active air bag. If you must use a forward-facing child seat in the front seat, move the seat all the way back.

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Seating and safety restraints

How does the air bag supplemental restraint system work?

The air bag SRS is designed to activate when the vehicle sustains sufficient longitudinal deceleration sufficient to cause the sensors to close an electrical circuit that initiates air bag inflation.

The fact that the air bags did not inflate in a collision does not mean that something is wrong with the system. Rather, it means the forces were not of the type sufficient to cause activation. Air bags are designed to inflate in frontal and near-frontal collisions, not rollover, side-impact, or rear-impacts.

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

While the system is designed to help reduce serious injuries, it may also cause minor burns, abrasions,

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Seating and safety restraints

swelling or temporary hearing loss. Because air bags must inflate rapidly and with considerable force, there is the risk of death or serious injuries such as fractures, facial and eye injuries or internal injuries, particularly to occupants who are not properly restrained or are otherwise out of position at the time of air bag deployment. Thus, it is extremely important that occupants be properly restrained as far away from the air bag module as possible while maintaining vehicle control.

Several air bag system components get hot

after inflation. Do not touch them after inflation.

If the air bag 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.

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.

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Seating and safety restraints

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.

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

See the following sections for directions on how to properly use safety restraints for children. Also see Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) in this chapter for special instructions about using air bags.

Important child restraint precautions

You are required by law to use safety restraints for children in the U.S. and Canada. If small children

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Seating and safety restraints

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 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

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

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

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

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

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Seating and safety restraints

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 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

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Seating and safety restraints

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.

• Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle until you hear a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the tongue is securely fastened in the buckle.

• 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 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.

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Seating and safety restraints

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.

An 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.

Rear facing child seats should NEVER be

placed in the front seats.

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.

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Seating and safety restraints

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.

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.

PRESS

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Seating and safety restraints

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 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.

Installing a child safety seat in the center rear 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 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 direction to make sure 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 position.

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.

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Seating and safety restraints

Tether anchorage hardware

Attachment holes (at each rear outboard seating position) have been provided in your vehicle to attach anchor hardware, if required. Tether anchorage hardware kits (part number 613D74) 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.

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.

If you have a station wagon, tether anchors are already installed for each of the second row seating positions.

1. Behind the second seat, find the plastic snap-on covers for the floor anchors.

2. Use a screwdriver or coin to snap the covers off the anchor in a rearward and upward direction. Remove the covers completely.

3. Snap the tether strap hook onto the U-shaped tether anchor.

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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.

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.

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Seating and safety restraints

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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Seating and safety restraints

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

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.

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.

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Starting

PREPARING TO START YOUR VEHICLE

Engine starting is controlled by the 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.

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.

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.

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Starting

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.

3. Make sure the parking brake is set.

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

PRND D1

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Starting

5. Turn the key to 4 (ON) without turning

the key to 5 (START).

000

FUEL DOOR>

SERVICE ENGINE

SOON

COOLANT

LOW

THEFT

100

140

00000

MPH km/h

P R N D 2 1

180

+–

100

110

120

O/D OFF

RPMx1000

UNLEADED FUEL ONLY

BRAKE

CRUISE

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.

(

STARTING THE ENGINE

1. Turn the key to 5 (START) without

pressing the accelerator pedal and release as soon as the engine starts. The key

will return to 4 (ON).

2. If the temperature is above –12° C (10° F) and the engine does not start within five seconds on the first try, turn the key to OFF, wait ten seconds and try again.

3. If the temperature is below -12°C (10°F) and the engine does not start in fifteen seconds on the first try, turn the key OFF and wait ten seconds and try

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Starting

again. If the engine does not start in two attempts, depress the accelerator and start the engine while holding the accelerator down to the floor. 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. Use of an engine block heater is 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.

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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.

Engine exhaust, some of its constituents,

and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

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.

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Driving

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.

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 vehicle has continuous vibration or shudder in the steering wheel while braking, the vehicle should be inspected by a qualified service technician.

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Driving

The ABS operates by detecting the onset of wheel lockup during brake applications and compensating for this tendency. The 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 with loss of front braking traction.

ABS warning lamp

ABS

The in the instrument cluster momentarily illuminates when the ignition is turned on and the engine is off. If the light does not illuminate momentarily at start up, remains on or continues to flash, the ABS needs to be serviced. With the ABS light on, the anti-lock brake system is disabled and normal braking is still effective unless the brake warning light also remains illuminated with parking brake released. (If your brake warning lamp illuminates, have your vehicle serviced immediately).

warning lamp

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.

• The Anti-Lock system does not decrease the time necessary to apply the brakes or always reduce

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Driving

stopping distance. Always leave enough room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you to 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, press the parking brake pedal down until the pedal stops.

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

Always set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in

P (Park).

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 increase greatly and the handling of your vehicle will be adversely affected.

BRAKE

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Driving

Pull the release lever to release the brake. Driving with the parking brake on will cause the brakes to wear out quickly and reduce fuel economy.

STEERING

Your vehicle is equipped with power steering. Power steering uses energy from the engine to help steer the vehicle.

To prevent damage to the power steering pump:

• Never hold the steering wheel to the extreme right or the extreme left for more than a few seconds when the engine is running.

• Do not operate the vehicle with a low power steering pump fluid level.

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.

If the steering wanders or pulls, the condition could be caused by any of the following:

• underinflated tire(s) on any wheel(s)

• high crown in center of road

• high crosswinds

• wheels out of alignment

• loose or worn components in steering linkage

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Driving

AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE OPERATION Brake-shift interlock

This vehicle is equipped with a brake-shift interlock feature that prevents the gearshift from being moved from P (Park) unless the brake pedal is pressed.

If you cannot move the gearshift out of P (Park) with the brake pedal depressed:

1. Apply the parking brake, turn ignition key to

LOCK, then remove the key.

2. Insert the key and turn it to OFF. Apply the brake

pedal and shift to N (Neutral).

3. Start the vehicle.

If it is necessary to use the above procedure to move the gearshift, it is possible that a fuse has blown and the vehicle’s brakelamps may not be operating properly. Refer to Fuses and relays in the Roadside emergencies chapter.

Do not drive your vehicle until you verify that the brakelamps are working.

If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow it may be rocked out by shifting from forward and reverse gears, stopping between shifts, in a steady pattern. Press lightly on the accelerator in each gear. Do not rock the vehicle for more than a few minutes, because it could damage the vehicle.

Always set the parking brake fully and make

sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn off the ignition whenever you leave your vehicle.

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Driving

Driving with an automatic overdrive transaxle (column or console gearshift without O/D off switch)

Your automatic overdrive transaxle provides fully automatic operation in either or D (Drive). Driving with the shift selector in fuel economy for normal driving conditions. For manual control start in 1 (First) and then shift manually.

If your vehicle is equipped with a console mounted gearshift, you must press the thumb button on the side of the gearshift to move the gearshift from P (Park).

To put your vehicle in gear, start the engine, depress the brake pedal, then move gearshift out of P (Park).

(Overdrive)

gives the best

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.

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Driving

Driving with an automatic overdrive transaxle (column or console gearshift with O/D off switch)

Your automatic overdrive transaxle provides fully automatic operation in either D (Overdrive) or with the O/D OFF switch depressed. Driving with the shift selector in D (Overdrive) gives the best fuel economy for normal driving conditions. For manual control start in 1 (First) and then shift manually.

If your vehicle is equipped with a console mounted gearshift, you must press the thumb button on the side of the gearshift to move the gearshift from P (Park).

To put your vehicle in gear, start the engine, depress the brake pedal, then move gearshift out of P (Park).

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Driving

Understanding gearshift positions

P (Park)

Always come to a complete stop before shifting into P (Park). Make sure the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park). This locks the transaxle and prevent the front wheels from rotating.

Always set the parking brake fully and make

sure the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park).

Never leave your vehicle unattended while it

is running.

PRND D1 P RND21

R (Reverse)

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

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Driving

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.

(Overdrive — column shift without O/D OFF switch) or D (Overdrive — column or console mounted gearshift with O/D off switch)

The overdrive position is the normal driving position for an automatic overdrive transaxle. It works the same way as

(Overdrive) or D (Drive — with the O/D OFF switch not depressed) works, 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) or press the O/D OFF switch (if equipped).

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Driving

If the O/D OFF indicator light (if equipped) is flashing on and off when the vehicle is started or does not come on when the O/D OFF switch is pressed, it means there is a malfunction in your transaxle’s electronic system. Contact your dealer as soon as possible or damage to the transaxle may occur.

Each time the vehicle is started, the transaxle will automatically return to normal overdrive mode.

When to use D (Drive) or press the O/D OFF switch (if equipped)

You will notice that there is only one drive position on your gearshift indicator (instead of Drive and Overdrive). However, you will find a control labeled O/D located on the gearshift lever. Push in the switch and the O/D OFF light in the instrument cluster will illuminate. With the O/D OFF light illuminated, the transaxle will operate in first, second and third gears and will not shift into fourth gear. Operating in D (O/D OFF) provides more engine braking than Overdrive for descending hills or city driving.

To return the transaxle to the normal Overdrive operation, press the O/D OFF control again. Use this control to select Overdrive or D (O/D OFF) whenever you drive your vehicle.

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Driving

If the O/D OFF indicator light is flashing on and off repeatedly when the vehicle is started or does not come on when the O/D OFF control is pressed, it means that there is a transaxle electronic system malfunction. You should contact your dealer as soon as possible or damage to the transaxle could occur.

2 (Second - if equipped)

Use 2 (Second) for start-up on slippery roads or to give you more engine braking to slow your vehicle on downgrades.

1 (First)

Use 1 (First) for 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 1 (First).

Do not go faster than 61 km/h (38 mph) when in this gear. You can upshift from 1 (First) to overdrive at any time.

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Driving

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.

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

100

Mercury Sable 1998 Owner's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Introduction

Instrumentation

Controls and features

Seating and safety restraints

Starting

Driving