1996 Ford Contour Owners Manual

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The air bag system uses a readiness light on the instrument cluster and a tone to indicate the condition of the system. When you turn the ignition key to the ON position, this light will illuminate for approximately six (6) seconds and then turn off. This indicates that the system is operating normally. NOTE: Maintenance of the air bag system is not required. A problem with the system is indicated by one or more of the following: n the readiness light will either flash or stay lit, n or it will not light immediately after ignition is turned on, n or a group of five beeps will be heard. The tone pattern will repeat periodically until the problem and light are repaired. If any of these things happen, have the air bag system serviced at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer immediately. Unless serviced, the air bag supplemental restraint system may not function properly in the event of a collision.

RWARNING

Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System or its fuses. See your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer.

Disposal of air bags or air bag equipped vehicles For disposal of air bags or air bag equipped vehicles, see your local Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. Air bags MUST be disposed of by qualified personnel.

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Safety Restraints

Safety Restraints for Children In the U.S. and Canada, you are required by law to use safety restraints for children. If small children ride in your vehicle — this generally includes children who are four years old or younger and who weigh 40 pounds (18 kg) or less — you must put them in safety seats that are made specially for children. Safety belts alone do not provide maximum protection for these children. Check your local and state laws for specific requirements.

RWARNING

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.

RWARNING

Passengers should not be allowed to ride in the cargo area. Persons not riding in a seat with a fastened seat belt are much more likely to suffer serious injury in a collision. Cargo should always be secured to prevent it from shifting and causing damage to the vehicle or harm to passengers.

When possible, put children in the rear seat of your vehicle. Accident statistics suggest that children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions.

RWARNING

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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RWARNING

Safety belts and seats can become hot in a vehicle that has been closed up in sunny weather; they could burn a small child. Check seat covers and buckles before you place a child anywhere near them.

RWARNING

Never leave a child unattended in your vehicle.

Safety Seats for Children Use a safety seat that is recommended for the size and weight of the child. Always follow the safety seat manufacturer’s instructions when installing and using the safety seat. Ford recommends the use of a child safety seat having a top tether strap. Install the child safety seat in a seating position which is capable of providing a tether anchorage. For more information on top tether straps see Attaching Safety Seats With Tether Straps in this chapter. Your vehicle is equipped with a right front passenger air bag. Air bags deploy with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. Front passengers, especially children and small adults, must never sit on the front edge of the seat, stand near the glove compartment of the instrument panel, or lean over near the air bag cover when the vehicle is moving. All occupants should sit with their backs against the seatback, move the seat to the most rearward position if possible and use the safety belts. Children weighing less than 40 lbs. (18 kg) always should use child or infant seats.

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Safety Restraints

RWARNING

When using forward-facing child seats move the passenger seat as far back from the instrument panel as possible. NEVER SECURE REAR-FACING INFANT SEATS IN THE FRONT SEAT.

THE FORCE OF THE RAPIDLY INFLATING PASSENGER AIR BAG COULD PUSH THE TOP OF THE REAR-FACING SEAT AGAINST THE VEHICLE SEATBACK, ARMRESTS OR CONSOLE. REAR-FACING INFANT SEATS MUST ALWAYS BE SECURED IN THE REAR SEAT. Failure to follow these instructions could result in serious injury. All child restraint systems are designed to be secured in vehicle seats by lap belts or by the lap portion of a lap-shoulder belt.

RWARNING

If you do not properly secure the safety seat, the child occupying the seat may be injured during a collision or sudden stop. An unsecured safety seat could also injure other passengers.

RWARNING

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.

When installing a child safety seat, be sure to use the correct safety belt buckle for that seating position, and make sure the tongue is securely fastened in the buckle.

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RWARNING

Always keep the buckle release button pointing upward and away from the child seat, with the tongue between the child seat and the release button as shown in the following illustration.

art:0001209-B

Safety belt buckle placement for child seats

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Safety Restraints

Installing Child Safety Seats in the Front Passenger Seat and Outer Rear Seating Positions Your vehicle is equipped with a dual locking mode retractor on the shoulder belt portion of the combination lap/shoulder safety belt for the right front seat passenger and rear outer passengers. If you choose to install a child safety seat in the front seating position, move vehicle seat as far back as possible. 1. Position the child seat in center of passenger seat. 2. Pull down on shoulder belt, then grasp shoulder belt and lap

belt together. Figure 1.

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3. While holding the shoulder and lap belt portions together,

route the tongue through the child seat according to the child seat manufacturer’s instructions. See Figure 2. Be sure that the belt webbing is not twisted.

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Safety Restraints

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4. Grasp the shoulder portion of the belt and pull downward until all of the belt is extracted from the reel and a click is heard. At this time the retractor is in the automatic locking mode (child restraint mode). Figure 4.

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Safety Restraints

5. Allow the belt to retract. Pull up on the shoulder webbing. A

clicking sound will be heard as the belt retracts. This indicates the retractor is in the automatic locking mode. Push down on the child seat while you pull up on the belt to remove any slack in the belt. Figures 5 and 6.

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Safety Restraints

6. Before placing the child in the child seat, forcibly tilt the seat

from side to side, and tug it forward to make sure that the seat is securely held in place, Figure 7.

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7. Double check that the retractor is in the automatic locking

mode. Try to pull more belt out of the retractor. If you cannot, the belt is in the automatic locking mode, Figure 8.

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8. Check to make sure that the child seat is properly secured

prior to each use. If the belt is not locked, repeat steps 4
through 7.

To remove retractor from automatic lock mode, unbuckle the belt and allow the webbing to retract fully. A click will be heard as the belt retracts. The belt is back in normal operating mode (vehicle sensitive emergency locking mode) when this click disappears.

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Safety Restraints

RWARNING

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

Installing Child Safety Seats in the Rear Center Seating Position Some child safety seats are too wide to fit in the rear center seat. Choose a child safety seat with a narrow base that can fit between the safety belt buckles. 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. To install a tether from a child safety seat in the front seat, route the tether strap under the vehicle seat head restraint and hook the tether hook into the hole in the tongue of the center rear lap belt. After the hook is in the hole, pull on the loose end of the lap belt webbing to shorten the belt and tighten the tether strap. To install a tethered child safety seat in the rear seat, you will need tether anchorage hardware. Tether anchorage hardware (Canadian vehicles only) All vehicles built for sale in Canada include a tether anchor hardware kit for use with child safety seats. Attachment holes (at each rear seating position) have been provided in your vehicle to attach the anchor hardware, if required. Additional kits can be obtained at no charge from any Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer.

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Tether anchorage hardware (USA vehicles only) All vehicles built for sale in the USA do not include a tether anchor hardware kit for use with child safety seats. However, attachment holes (at each rear seating position) have been provided in your vehicle to attach the tether anchor hardware. If tether anchorage hardware is required for the child safety seat, use only the tether anchor kit available at no charge from any Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer (Base part number 613D74). Safety Belts for Children Children who are too large for child safety seats should always wear safety belts. (See instructions with your child seat, or contact its manufacturer, to determine maximum size of child that will safely fit in the seat.)

RWARNING

If safety belts are not properly worn and adjusted as described, the risk of serious injury to the child in a collision will be much greater.

If the shoulder belt portion of one of the lap and shoulder belts can be positioned so that it does not cross or rest in front of the child’s face or neck, the child should wear the lap 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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Safety Restraints

To improve the fit of lap and shoulder belts on children who have outgrown child safety seats, Ford recommends use of a belt-positioning booster seat that is labelled as conforming to all Federal motor vehicle safety standards. Belt-positioning booster seats raise the child and provide a shorter, firmer seating cushion that encourages safer seating posture and better fit of lap and shoulder belts on the child. A belt-positioning booster should be used if the shoulder belt rests in front of the child’s face or neck, or if the lap belt does not fit snugly on both thighs, or if the thighs are too short to let the child sit all the way back on the seat cushion when the lower legs hang over the edge of the seat cushion. You may wish to discuss the specific needs of your child with your pediatrician.

RWARNING

Do not use a belt-positioning booster with a lap-only belt.

Lap belts and the lap belt portion of lap and shoulder belts should always be worn snugly and below the hips, touching the child’s thighs.

RWARNING

To reduce the risk of serious injury in a collision, children should always ride with the seatback upright.

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Starting Your Contour

Ignition Understanding the Positions of the Ignition

The positions of the key in the ignition

LOCK and ACCESSORY lock the gearshift for all vehicles with an automatic transaxle.

RWARNING

LOCK position does not lock the gearshift on floor-mounted manual transaxle gearshifts. If the parking brake is not set and the gearshift is moved out of gear, your vehicle may move unexpectedly and injure someone.

The automatic transaxle gearshift must be in P (Park) to move the key to the LOCK position.

LOCK is the only position that allows you to remove the key. The LOCK feature helps to protect your vehicle from theft.

If your key is stuck in the LOCK position and will not turn, move your steering wheel left or right until the key turns freely.

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[ST05801(ALL)02/95]

ACCESSORY allows some of your vehicle’s electrical accessories to operate while the engine is not running. For example, you can use ACCESSORY to turn on the radio without starting the engine. ON allows you to test your vehicle’s warning lights (except the brake system warning light) to make sure they work before you start the engine. The key returns to the ON position once the engine is started and remains in this position while the engine runs. START cranks the engine. Release the key once the engine starts so that you do not damage the starter. The key should return to ON when you release it. The START position also allows you to test the brake warning light. Removing the Key From the Ignition Procedures for removing your key from the ignition vary, depending on whether your vehicle has an automatic or manual transaxle. If your vehicle has an automatic transaxle: 1. Put the gearshift lever in P (Park). 2. Set the parking brake fully. 3. Rotate the ignition key to the LOCK position. 4. Remove the key from the ignition. If your vehicle has a manual transaxle: 1. Put the gearshift lever in 1 (First). 2. Set the parking brake fully. 3. Rotate the ignition key to the LOCK position. 4. Remove the key from the ignition.

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Starting Your Contour

The steering wheel locks when the key is removed. If the driver’s door is open while the key is still in the ignition, a warning chime sounds.

RWARNING

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

RWARNING

Do not leave children, unreliable adults, or pets alone in your vehicle. They could accidentally injure themselves or others through inadvertent operation of the vehicle. Further, on hot, sunny days, temperatures in a closed vehicle could quickly become high enough to cause severe and possibly fatal injuries to people as well as animals.

Fuel-Injected Engines When starting a fuel-injected engine, the most important thing to remember is to avoid pressing down on the accelerator before or during starting. Only use the accelerator when you have problems getting your vehicle started. See Starting Your Engine in this chapter for details about when to use the accelerator while you start your vehicle.

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[ST08900(ALL)12/94]

Starting Your Vehicle Preparing to Start Your Vehicle

RWARNING

Do not start your vehicle in a closed garage or other enclosed area. Never sit in a stopped vehicle for more than a short period of time with the engine running. Exhaust fumes are toxic. See Guarding Against Exhaust Fumes in this chapter for more instructions.

Before you start your vehicle, do the following: 1. Make sure you and all your passengers buckle your safety

belts. See Safety Restraints in the Index for more details.

2. Make sure your headlamps and other accessories are turned

off and the parking brake is set.

3. If you have a manual transaxle, make sure that the parking brake is fully set, push the clutch pedal to the floor, and put the gearshift into Neutral before you turn the key. (Remember, the starter will operate only if the clutch pedal is pushed all the way to the floor.) If you have an automatic transaxle, make sure that the gearshift is in P (Park) and the parking brake is set before you turn the key.

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Starting Your Contour

Before you start your vehicle, you should test the warning lights on the instrument panel to make sure that they work. Refer to the Warning Lights and Gauges chapter. Starting Your Engine To start your engine: 1. Follow the steps under Preparing to Start Your Vehicle at the

beginning of this section.

2. Keep your foot on the brake pedal and turn the ignition key

to the ON position.

3. DO NOT depress the accelerator pedal when starting your

engine. DO NOT use the accelerator while the vehicle is parked.

4. Turn the key to the START position (cranking) until the engine starts. Allow the key to return to the ON position after the engine has started. If you have difficulty in turning the key, rotate the steering wheel slightly because it may be binding.

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For a cold engine: 2.0L engine: n At temperatures below -10˚F (-23˚C): Turn the key to ON, crank the engine and depress the accelerator about 1/4 of the way down and hold that position for five (5) seconds. If the engine fails to start, continue to crank with the accelerator depressed about 1/4 of the way down and hold that position until the engine starts. DO NOT crank for more than 30 seconds, or you could damage the starter. If the engine fails to start on the first try, turn the key to OFF and wait two (2) minutes before trying again. Allow engine to warm up for a few minutes before putting transaxle into gear.

n At temperatures between -10˚F (-23˚C) and 10˚F (-12˚C):

Turn the key to ON, and crank the engine for five (5) seconds. If the engine fails to start, continue to crank and depress the accelerator about 1/4 of the way down and hold that position until the engine starts. DO NOT crank for more than 30 seconds, or you could damage the starter. If the engine fails to start on the first try, turn the key to OFF and wait two (2) minutes before trying again.

n At temperatures between 10˚F (-12˚C) and 32˚F (0˚C): If the engine does not start in fifteen (15) seconds on first try, turn the key to OFF, then try again.

n At temperatures above 32˚F (0˚C): If the engine does not

start in five (5) seconds on the first try, turn the key to OFF, then try again.

If you have the 4-cylinder 2.0L engine and are not using an engine block heater, warm up the engine for a minute or two before putting the transaxle in gear. Depressing the accelerator slightly will also help with cold starts.

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Starting Your Contour

2.5L engine: n At temperatures 10˚F (-12˚C) and below: If the engine does not start in fifteen (15) seconds on the first try, turn the key to OFF, wait approximately ten (10) seconds so you do not flood the engine, then try again.

n At temperatures above 10˚F (-12˚C): If the engine does not start in five (5) seconds on the first try, wait approximately ten (10) seconds so you do not flood the engine, then try again.

For a warm engine: n Do not hold the key in the START position for more than

five (5) seconds at a time. If the engine does not start within five (5) seconds on the first try, wait a few seconds after the starter stops, then try again.

Whenever you start your vehicle, release the key as soon as the engine starts. Excessive cranking could damage the starter or flood the engine. After you start the engine, let it idle for a few seconds. Keep your foot on the brake pedal and put the gearshift lever in gear. Release the parking brake. Slowly release the brake pedal and drive away in the normal manner. NOTE: If your vehicle is equipped with an automatic

transaxle, your vehicle has an interlock that prevents you from shifting out of P (Park) unless your foot is on the brake pedal.

If the engine does not start after two attempts: 1. Press the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and hold

it.

[ST09496(ALL)01/95]

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2. Turn the ignition key to the START position. 3. Release the ignition key when the engine starts.

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4. Release the accelerator gradually as the engine speeds up.

Then drive away in the normal manner.

If the engine still does not start, the fuel pump shut-off switch may have been triggered. For directions on how to reset the switch see Fuel Pump Shut-Off Switch later in this chapter. A computer system controls the engine’s idle speed. When you start your vehicle, the engine’s idle speed normally runs high. These faster engine speeds will make your vehicle move slightly faster than its normal idle speed. It should, however, slow down after a short time. If it does not, have the idle speed checked. If the engine idle speed does not slow down automatically, do not allow your vehicle to idle for more than 10 minutes. Have the vehicle checked.

RWARNING

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.

RWARNING

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.

*[ST10500(ALL)03/95]

If you consistently start your vehicle in subzero temperatures, use an engine block heater (if your vehicle has this option).

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Starting Your Contour

Engine Block Heater (If equipped) Engine block heaters are strongly recommended if you live in a region where temperatures reach -10˚F (-23˚C) or below. An engine block heater warms the engine coolant, which improves starting, warms up the engine faster, and allows the heater-defrost system to respond quickly. To turn the heater on, simply plug it into a grounded 110-volt outlet. Ford recommends that you use a 110-volt circuit that is protected by a ground fault circuit interrupter.

RWARNING

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

For best results, plug the heater in at least three hours before you start your vehicle. Using the heater for longer than three hours will not damage the engine, so you can plug it in at night to start your vehicle the following morning.

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If the Engine Cranks but Does Not Start or Does Not Start After a Collision Fuel Pump Shut-off Switch If the engine cranks but does not start or does not start after a collision, the fuel pump shut-off switch may have been triggered. The shut-off switch is a device intended to stop the fuel pump when your vehicle has been involved in a substantial jolt. Once the shut-off switch is triggered, you must reset the switch by hand before you can start your vehicle. The switch is located on the left hand kick panel in the driver’s footwell.

art:0000530-D *[ST11700(ALL)05/95]

The left-hand kick panel in the driver’s footwell

RWARNING

If you see or smell fuel, do not reset the switch or try to start your vehicle. Have all the passengers get out of the vehicle and call the local fire department or a towing service.

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*[ST12600(ALL)05/95]

Starting Your Contour

If your engine cranks but does not start after a collision or substantial jolt: 1. Turn the ignition key to the OFF position. 2. Check under the vehicle for leaking fuel. 3. If you do not see or smell fuel, push the red reset button

down. If the button is already set, you may have a different mechanical problem.

4. Turn the ignition key to the ON position for a few seconds,

then turn it to the OFF position.

5. Check under the vehicle again for leaking fuel. If you see or

smell fuel, do not start your vehicle again. If you do not see or smell fuel, you can try to start your vehicle again.

6. Check all vehicle warning lights before driving the vehicle. Guarding Against Exhaust Fumes Carbon monoxide, although colorless and odorless, is present in exhaust fumes. Take precautions to avoid its dangerous effects.

RWARNING

Do not start your vehicle in a closed garage or other enclosed area. Never sit in a stopped vehicle for more than a short period of time with the engine running. Exhaust fumes are toxic. See Guarding Against Exhaust Fumes in this chapter for more instructions.

RWARNING

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

51

File:cdsto.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:13:36 1996

*[ST12700(ALL)01/95] *[ST12800(ALL)02/95] *[ST12900(ALL)02/95] *[ST13000(ALL)01/95] *[ST13200(ALL)01/95] *[ST13300(ALL)03/95]

[ST13500(ALL)11/93]

[ST13800(ALL)12/88]

Have the exhaust and body ventilation systems checked whenever: n your vehicle is raised for service n the sound of the exhaust system changes n your vehicle has been damaged in a collision Improve your ventilation by keeping all air inlet vents clear of snow, leaves, and other debris. If the engine is idling while you are stopped in an open area for long periods of time, open the windows at least one inch (2.5 cm). Also, adjust the heating or air conditioning to bring in outside air. If you use the heater, set the fan speed on medium or high with the function control knob turned to FLR, PNL/FLR or PANEL. If you use the air conditioner, set the fan speed on medium or high with the A/C button pressed. (Do not use MAX A/C.)

52

File:cdlgo.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:16:21 1996

Warning Lights and Gauges

*[LG00500(O )05/92]

*[LG00600(O )05/91] *[LG00700(O )12/89] *[LG01100(O )05/94]

In your vehicle, the warning lights and gauges are grouped together on the instrument panel. We call this grouping a cluster. Your vehicle has one of the following clusters: n Standard Cluster n Sport Cluster If you are not sure which cluster your vehicle has, check the diagrams on the following pages.

53

3

3

File:cdlgo.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:16:21 1996

*[LG01700(O )12/89] *[LG01800(O )12/89]

*[LG02400(ALL)01/95] %*[LG02500(ALL)05/95] *[LG02612(ALL)01/95] *[LG02614(ALL)03/95]

*[LG02616(ALL)03/95]

*[LG02618(ALL)03/95]

[LG02800(ALL)01/95]

6 pica art:0000291-C

Standard Cluster The following warning lights and gauges are on the standard cluster. All of the warning lights and gauges alert you to possible problems with your vehicle. The following sections detail what each of these indicators means. Indicator Lights and Chimes Safety Belt Warning Light and Chime This warning light and chime remind you to fasten your safety belt. The following conditions will take place: n If the driver’s safety belt is not buckled when the ignition is turned to the ON position, the light will turn on for 1 to 2
minutes and the chime will sound for 4 to 8 seconds.

n If the driver’s safety belt is buckled while the light is on or

the chime is sounding, both the light and the chime will turn off.

n If the driver’s safety belt is buckled before the ignition is turned to the ON position, neither the light nor the chime will turn on.

56

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*[LG02900(ALL)03/95] *[LG03000(ALL)03/95]

[LG03400(ALL)01/95]

6 pica art:0000971-D

*[LG03500(ALL)01/95]

*[LG03700(ALL)05/95]

Warning Lights and Gauges

Brake System Warning Light The warning light for the brakes can show two things — that the parking brake is not fully released, or that the brake fluid level is low in the master cylinder reservoir. If the fluid level is low, the brake system should be checked by a qualified service technician.

This light comes on when the parking brake is set, or if it is not set, it comes on briefly when you turn the ignition to the START position. It normally goes off shortly after the engine starts and you release the parking brake. If the light stays on after you have fully released the parking brake, have the hydraulic brake system serviced by your dealer or a qualified service technician.

RWARNING

The BRAKE light indicates that the brakes may not be working properly. Have the brakes checked immediately.

57

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*[LG03800(ALL)01/95] *[LG03900(ALL)03/95] [LG04100(ALL)01/95]

6 pica art:0000293-C

*[LG04300(ALL)05/95]

*[LG04400(ALL)01/95] %*[LG04800(ALL)02/95] *[LG04900(ALL)01/95]

[LG05010(ALL)01/95]

6 pica art:0000294-B

Charging System Light This light indicates that your battery is not being charged and that you need to have the electrical system checked.

This light comes on every time you turn the ignition to the ON or START position (engine off). The light should go off when the engine starts and the alternator begins to charge. If the light stays on or comes on when the engine is running, have the electrical system checked as soon as possible. Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light This light indicates the engine’s oil pressure, not the oil level. However, if your engine’s oil level is low, it could affect the oil pressure. The light will come on briefly when you turn your key to the START and ON position. The light should stay off when the engine is running with normal oil pressure. If the light comes on while the engine is running, you have lost oil pressure and continued operation will cause severe engine damage.

58

File:cdlgo.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:16:21 1996

*[LG05105(ALL)03/95] *[LG05200(ALL)03/95] *[LG05300(ALL)11/94]

*[LG05400(ALL)11/94]

[LG05500(ALL)11/94]

*[LG06200(ALL)01/95] *[LG06300(ALL)03/95] [LG06350(ALL)05/94]

[LG06400(ALL)01/95]

6 pica art:0000295-B

Warning Lights and Gauges

If you lose engine oil pressure: 1. Pull off the road as soon as safely possible. 2. Shut off the engine immediately. If you do not stop the engine as soon as safely possible, severe engine damage could result.

3. Check the engine’s oil level, following the instructions on checking and adding engine oil in this Owner Guide. (See Engine oil in the Index.) If you do not follow these instructions, you or others could be injured. To ensure an accurate reading, your vehicle should be on level ground.

4. If the level is low, add only as much oil as necessary to

bring it to the full level before you start the engine again. Do not overfill. Do not operate the engine if the light is on, regardless of the oil level. Contact your nearest dealer for further service actions.

High Beam Light This light comes on when the headlamps are turned to high beam or when you flash the lights. If the high beam light flashes in a vehicle equipped with the Daytime Running Light (DRL) system (Canada), it indicates a failure in the DRL circuit. Check the bulbs and fuses or have the DRL system checked by your dealer or a qualified service technician.

59

File:cdlgo.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:16:21 1996

%*[LG07000(ALL)05/95] [LG07100(ALL)05/94]

*[LG07200(ALL)01/95] *[LG07300(ALL)05/95]

[LG07400(ALL)05/95]

*[LG07500(ALL)05/95]

[LG07600(ALL)03/95]

6 pica art:0001212-A

Chime for Headlamps On This chime sounds if the driver’s door is open when the parking lamps or headlamps are on. The chime sounds until you close the door or turn off the lamps. Air Bag Readiness Light The air bag system uses a readiness light and a tone to indicate the condition of the system. The readiness light is in the instrument cluster. When you turn the ignition to the ON position, this light will illuminate for approximately six (6) seconds and then turn off. This indicates that the system is operating normally. NOTE: Maintenance of the air bag system is not required. A problem with the system is indicated by one or more of the following: the readiness light will either flash or stay lit, or it will not light or a group of five beeps will be heard.

RWARNING

If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the air bag system serviced at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer immediately.

60

File:cdlgo.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:16:21 1996

*[LG07650(ALL)03/95] *[LG07750(ALL)05/95]

*[LG07800(ALL)05/95]

[LG07850(ALL)03/95]

6 pica art:0000640-B

*[LG07900(ALL)05/95]

*[LG07950(ALL)05/95]

Warning Lights and Gauges

Check Engine Warning Light The Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic II (OBD II) system consists of the hardware and software necessary to monitor the operation of the powertrain. The OBD II system is designed to check the function of the vehicle’s powertrain control system during normal operation. If an emission problem is detected, the Check Engine Warning Light (in the cluster) is turned on. Modification or additions to the vehicle may cause incorrect operation of the OBD II system. Additions such as burglar alarms, cellular phones, and CB radios must be carefully installed. Do not install these devices by tapping into or running wires close to powertrain control system wires or components.

This light comes on briefly when you turn the ignition to the ON position, but should turn off when the engine starts. If the light does not come on when you turn the ignition to the ON position or if it comes on and stays on when you are driving, have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible. This indicates a possible problem with one of the engine’s emission control systems. You do not need to have your vehicle towed in. If the light turns on and off at one (1) second intervals while you are driving the vehicle, it means that the engine is misfiring. If this condition persists, damage could occur to the engine or catalytic convertor. Have your vehicle serviced at the first opportunity. You do not need to have your vehicle towed in.

61

File:cdlgo.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:16:21 1996

*[LG08001(ALL)05/95]

*[LG08050(ALL)05/95]

*[LG08100(ALL)05/95]

*[LG08150(ALL)05/95]

*[LG08201(ALL)05/95]

If the light turns on and off on rare occasions while you are driving, it means that a malfunction occurred and the condition corrected itself. An example of a condition which corrects itself occurs when an engine running out of fuel begins to misfire. In this case, the Check Engine Warning Light may turn on and will then set a Diagnostic Trouble Code indicating that the engine was misfiring while the last of the fuel was being consumed. After refueling, the Check Engine Warning Light will turn off after the vehicle has completed three consecutive warm up cycles without a misfire condition occurring. A warm up cycle consists of engine start from a cold condition (engine at ambient temperature) and running until the engine reaches normal operating temperature. On the fourth engine start up, the Check Engine Warning Light will turn off as soon as the engine begins to crank. It is not necessary to have the engine serviced. Under certain conditions, the Check Engine Warning Light may come on if the fuel cap is not properly installed. If the Check Engine Warning Light comes on and you suspect that the fuel cap is not properly installed, pull off the road as soon as it is safely possible and turn off the engine. Remove and replace the fuel cap, making sure it is properly seated. After completing the three consecutive warm up cycles and on the fourth engine start up, the Check Engine Warning Light should turn off. If the light does not go off after the fourth engine restart, have your vehicle serviced by your dealer or a qualified technician.

62

File:cdlgo.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:16:21 1996

[LG08310(ALL)05/94]

[LG08320(ALL)02/95]

[LG08330(ALL)05/95]

[LG08340(ALL)01/95]

6 pica art:0001211-A

*[LG08368(ALL)05/95] [LG08375(ALL)05/95]

[LG08385(ALL)05/95]

6 pica art:0050190-A

Warning Lights and Gauges

Overdrive Off Indicator (Automatic Transaxle Only) This light tells you that the Transaxle Control Switch (TCS) on the gearshift lever has been pushed. When the light is on, the transaxle will not shift into overdrive. Depressing the TCS button located below the gearshift release button on the shifter will return the vehicle to “overdrive on” mode. The transaxle will be in the “overdrive on” mode when the vehicle is started even if the O/D OFF mode was selected when the vehicle was last shut off. If the light does not come on when the TCS is depressed or if the light flashes when you are driving, have your vehicle serviced at the first opportunity.

Turn Signal Indicator Lights The turn signal arrow will flash to indicate the direction in which you are going to be turning.

63

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*[LG08400(ALL)01/95] *[LG08500(ALL)01/95] [LG08550(ALL)01/95]

*[LG08600(ALL)01/95]

*[LG08800(ALL)01/95] *[LG08900(ALL)03/95]

[LG09000(ALL)05/94]

[LG09015(ALL)02/94]

10-1/2 pica

art:0001097-B

Fuel Gauge The fuel gauge displays approximately how much fuel you have in the fuel tank. For proper fuel gauge operation, the ignition must be in the OFF position before you add fuel to the fuel tank. The fuel gauge indicator may vary slightly while the vehicle is in motion. This is the result of fuel movement within the tank. An accurate reading may be obtained with the vehicle on smooth, level ground. Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge This gauge indicates the temperature of the engine coolant, not the coolant level. If the coolant is not at its proper level or mixture, the gauge indication will not be accurate. The pointer moves from the white mark into the NORMAL band as the engine coolant warms up. It is acceptable for the pointer to fluctuate within the NORMAL band under normal driving conditions. Under certain driving conditions, such as heavy stop and go traffic or driving up hills in hot weather, the pointer may indicate at the top of the NORMAL band.

The engine coolant temperature gauge

64

File:cdlgo.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:16:21 1996

*[LG09100(ALL)05/95]

*[LG09150(ALL)01/95] *[LG09200(ALL)03/95] *[LG09300(ALL)01/95] *[LG09400(ALL)05/95] *[LG09410(ALL)04/95]

*[LG09415(ALL)01/95] *[LG09800(ALL)01/95] *[LG09900(ALL)01/95] *[LG10000(ALL)01/95] *[LG10100(ALL)01/95] %*[LG10109(ALL)11/94] *[LG10116(ALL)11/94]

Warning Lights and Gauges

If, under any circumstances, the pointer moves above the NORMAL band, the engine coolant is overheating and continued operation may cause engine damage. If your engine coolant overheats: 1. Pull off the road as soon as safely possible. 2. Turn off the engine. 3. Let the engine cool. 4. Check the coolant level following the instructions on

checking and adding coolant to your engine, see Engine Coolant in the Index. If you do not follow these instructions, you or others could be injured.

If the coolant continues to overheat, have the coolant system serviced as soon as possible. Speedometer The speedometer tells you how many miles (kilometers) per hour your vehicle is moving. Odometer The odometer tells you the total number of miles (kilometers) your vehicle has been driven. Trip Odometer The trip odometer tells you how many miles (kilometers) your vehicle has been driven since the last reset. Press the reset button to return the trip odometer to zero.

65

File:cdlgo.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:16:21 1996

[LG22025(O )03/95] *[LG22050(O )04/94]

*[LG22100(ALL)02/95] *[LG22200(ALL)01/95] *[LG22300(ALL)01/95] %*[LG22400(ALL)02/95] [LG22500(ALL)05/94]

[LG22600(ALL)04/95]

Sport Cluster The sport cluster has basically the same standard warning lights and gauges as the standard cluster, with the following additional features: Tachometer The tachometer displays the approximate engine revolutions per minute (rpm), or how fast the engine is running. If you drive with the tachometer in the red zone, you may damage the engine. Anti-lock Brake System Warning Light (If equipped) Your vehicle may have an Anti-lock Brake System feature. If it does, check the Anti-lock Brake System light each time you start the engine. If it stays on longer than three (3) seconds, shut off the engine and restart. If it stays on, that means the Anti-lock Brake feature is not working and should be serviced immediately to restore the benefits of the Anti-lock feature. Normal braking is not affected unless the brake warning light is also lit. The Anti-Lock Brake System has self-check capabilities. As described above, the system turns on the anti-lock light each time you start your engine. After the engine is started and the anti-lock light turns off, the system performs another test the first time the vehicle reaches 5 mph (8 km/h) (between 12 and 25 mph [20 and 40 km/h] for vehicles equipped with the traction control system). The system turns on the ABS pump motor for approximately 1/2 second. At this time, a mechanical noise may be heard and felt. This is a normal part of the self-check feature. If a malfunction is found during this check the anti-lock light will come on.

66

File:cdlgo.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:16:21 1996

[LG22700(ALL)01/95]

6 pica art:0001210-A

% [LG22800(ALL)03/95]

[LG22900(ALL)02/95]

[LG23000(ALL)01/95]

6 pica art:0001214-B

[LG23100(ALL)03/95]

Warning Lights and Gauges

Low Coolant Light (If equipped) This light indicates that the level of the engine coolant is low inside the coolant recovery bottle and that you should add more coolant. See Engine Coolant in the Index.

This light comes on for a few seconds when the ignition is turned to the START position, but should turn off when the engine starts. If this light stays on, check the level of coolant inside the recovery bottle. The level may be slightly above the MIN line because the light is an “early warning.”

67

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[LG23600(ALL)05/94]

[LG23700(ALL)05/95]

[LG23800(ALL)05/95]

[LG23900(ALL)01/95]

6 pica art:0001213-A

Traction Control System Light (If equipped) This light comes on when the traction control system has been disengaged. It may come on or flash on and off while traction control is operating. If the light stays on for more than three (3) seconds after the ignition is turned to the ON position or does not come on when the T/C OFF button is pressed, have the traction control system checked by a qualified technician as soon as possible.

68

File:cdipo.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:18:07 1996

*[IP00310(ALL)01/95]

[IP00400(ALL)05/95]

*[IP00420(ALL)03/95]

%*[IP00430(ALL)05/95]

Instrument Panel Controls

The instrument panel (dashboard) on your vehicle is divided into several different sections. The illustrations on the following pages show the major parts of the instrument panel that are described in this chapter. Some items shown may not be on all vehicles.

The main controls for the climate control system, clock, and radio are on the instrument panel.

Clean the instrument panel lens and woodtone trim with a soft cloth and a glass cleaner. Do not use paper towel or any abrasive cleaner to clean either the lens or the woodtone trim as these may cause scratches.

NOTE: Any cleaner or polish that increases the gloss (shine) of the upper part of the instrument panel should be avoided. The dull finish in this area is to help protect the driver from undesirable windshield reflection.

69

a

File:cdipo.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:18:07 1996

*[IP00500(ALL)01/95] [IP00625(ALL)01/95]

[IP00800(ALL)02/94] *[IP00900(ALL)02/95] *[IP01100(ALL)09/89] [IP01201(ALL)03/95]

[IP01220(ALL)05/94]

[IP01250(O )03/95]

10-1/2 pica

art:0001181-B

Instrument Panel Controls

The Climate Control Systems Your vehicle has one of the following: n Heating Only System (Without Air Conditioning) n Heating and Air Conditioning System If you are not sure which system your vehicle has, see the diagrams on the following pages. Heating Only System The control for your heater system is located at the center of the instrument panel below the radio. The heater will operate only when the ignition key is turned to the ON position. Your heater will heat and/or ventilate your vehicle interior depending on the function selector knob position and temperature you select. The function selector knob allows you to select heating or ventilation and determine where the air will be directed. The temperature control knob setting determines the temperature of the air that flows into the vehicle.

The control for the heating only system

71

File:cdipo.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:18:07 1996

[IP01300(ALL)05/94]

[IP01325(ALL)05/94]

[IP01375(ALL)03/95]

*[IP01400(ALL)03/95] [IP01401(ALL)03/95]

*[IP01425(ALL)03/95] [IP01451(ALL)03/95]

[IP01475(ALL)05/94]

To turn your heater system on, select any position except OFF. This will turn the fan on and allow air flow into the vehicle. To turn your heater off, select OFF. This will turn the fan off and stop air flow from coming into the vehicle. Your vehicle also has small demister openings on each front door near the window. This allows a small amount of air flow to be directed onto the door glass to reduce fogging whenever the heater system is operating. The temperature control knob is located at the right side of the control with a broken RED and BLUE band around the top and sides of the knob. The all RED part of the band (full right) is the heat or warmer area. The all BLUE area (full left) is the cool or unheated temperature area. Any position selected between full right and full left will give a temperature between the two extreme temperatures. The cool temperature you select will not be cooler than the outside temperature if your vehicle is not equipped with an air conditioner. H Fan speed adjustment The H (left) knob on the control is the fan speed knob which controls the volume of air flow. Rotate the H knob to HI to increase fan speed and increase the amount of air entering the vehicle. Four fan speed positions are available and are indicated by LO, two single dots and HI beside the H control knob. Air flow selections PANEL Use PANEL to bring outside air through the instrument panel registers. You can heat the air in this position by rotating the temperature control knob into the RED area. The air CANNOT be cooled below the outside temperature regardless of the temperature control knob setting.

72

File:cdipo.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:18:07 1996

[IP01500(ALL)03/95]

[IP01525(ALL)03/95]

*[IP01551(ALL)03/95] [IP01575(ALL)05/94]

[IP01600(ALL)03/95]

[IP01625(ALL)05/94]

*[IP01651(ALL)03/95] [IP01675(ALL)05/95]

Instrument Panel Controls

PNL/FLR Select PNL/FLR to get air flow to the floor and through the instrument panel registers at the same time. This selection can be used to either heat or ventilate your vehicle. FLOOR Air flow will be to the floor when FLOOR is selected. The air cannot be cooled in the FLOOR position but can be heated by rotating the temperature control knob into the RED area. FLR/DEF Select FLR/DEF to get air to the floor and windshield defrosters at the same time. V DEF Select V DEF to obtain maximum air flow to the windshield. Rotate the temperature control knob into the RED area for the air temperature required to defrost. Rotate the H knob to increase the air flow.

73

File:cdipo.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:18:07 1996

[IP01850(ALL)04/95]

[IP01875(ALL)03/95]

[IP01890(ALL)03/95]

[IP01900(O )04/95]

10-1/2 pica

art:0001192-B

[IP02150(ALL)04/95] *[IP02175(ALL)03/95] [IP02200(ALL)05/94]

Heating and Air Conditioning System Heating, ventilation, defrosting and defogging are accomplished in the same way as with the heating only system. See “Heating Only System.” With the heating and air conditioning system, if the outside temperature is about 50˚F (10˚C) or warmer, the air will be dehumidified to remove moisture if you select FLR/DEF or V DEF.

The control for the heating and air conditioning system

Air conditioning A/C Select A/C to get refrigerated outside air through the instrument panel registers. The A/C position is used for cooling except when extremely hot or fast cooling of the vehicle is needed. Then, select MAX A/C for fast cooling and return to A/C when you are comfortable.

74

File:cdipo.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:18:07 1996

*[IP02225(ALL)03/95] [IP02251(ALL)05/95]

[IP02475(ALL)03/95]

[IP02501(ALL)03/95]

[IP02525(ALL)05/95]

[IP02550(ALL)03/95]

*[IP02575(ALL)03/95] [IP02600(ALL)05/94]

[IP03025(ALL)04/95] *[IP03050(ALL)02/95]

Instrument Panel Controls

MAX A/C The MAX A/C position produces cool air more rapidly to provide faster cooling of your vehicle. Thhis is possible because cooler air is drawn from inside the passenger area and refrigerated again instead of using warmer outside air. Using inside air will also make the fan sound louder, which is normal when using MAX A/C. The air flow will be from the instrument panel registers. Comfort tips The following tips will help you to get the most satisfaction from your climate control system. n In humid weather, select V DEF before starting your

engine. This will help to prevent windshield fogging. After a few minutes of operation, you may select another function.

n To prevent humidity buildup inside your vehicle, always

drive with the climate control system turned on.

n Do not put objects under the front seats that interfere with

the flow of air to the back seat area.

n Remove any snow, ice, or leaves from the air intake area of

your heater and air conditioner system which could block the air intake. The intake area is located at the bottom of the windshield.

Passenger Compartment Air Filter Your vehicle may have an air filter that removes pollen and road dust from outside air before it is directed to the interior of the vehicle. For maintenance of this filter, see Servicing Your Contour.

75

File:cdipo.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:18:07 1996

% [IP03500(ALL)05/95]

[IP03551(ALL)02/95]

[IP03600(ALL)01/95]

[IP03700(ALL)02/94]

6 pica art:0001180-B

[IP03900(ALL)05/95]

*[IP04000(ALL)04/95]

*[IP04100(ALL)04/95] *[IP23000(ALL)03/94]

Rear Window Defroster and Heated Side View Mirrors (If equipped) The defroster for the rear window clears frost, fog, or thin ice from both the inside and outside of the rear window and activates the heated side view mirrors. The button for the rear window defroster and heated side view mirrors is on the instrument panel, to the right of the steering wheel.

The rear window defroster and heated side view mirrors Clear away any snow that is on the rear window and side view mirrors before using the defroster. With the engine running, push the defroster button. After approximately 10 minutes, the defroster will turn off. If the window or mirrors are still not clear, turn the defroster on again. The defroster will turn off when the ignition key is turned to the OFF or START position. NOTE: Never use sharp instruments or window cleaners with

abrasives to clean the inside of your rear window. If you do, you may damage the heating elements that are bonded to the inside of the rear window and cause damage to the rear window defroster.

76

File:cdipo.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:18:07 1996

*[IP23600(ALL)01/95] *[IP23700(ALL)01/95] [IP23800(ALL)05/95]

[IP24000(O )05/95]

10-1/2 pica

art:0001178-D

[IP24300(ALL)05/95]

[IP24400(ALL)05/95]

Instrument Panel Controls

The Interior and Exterior Lights Turning On the Exterior Lights To turn on your headlamps, parking lamps, and tail lamps, use the knob that is on the instrument panel, to the left of the steering wheel.

The knob for the exterior lights

To turn on the parking lamps and tail lamps, turn the knob clockwise to the first position. To turn on the headlamps, parking lamps and tail lamps, turn the knob clockwise to the second position.

77

File:cdipo.ex Update:Thu Jan 25 12:18:07 1996

[IP25000(ALL)01/95]

10-1/2 pica

art:0001186-D

[IP25100(ALL)05/95]

*[IP25200(ALL)04/95] [IP25220(ALL)05/94]

[IP25300(ALL)05/94]

[IP25325(ALL)02/94] *[IP25401(ALL)02/93]

Turning on the high beams

To change the headlamps from low to high beam, push the lever away from you until it latches, and release. The high beam indicator in the instrument cluster glows when the headlamps are on high beam. To change the headlamps from high beam to low beam, pull the lever toward you until it latches. Fog Lamps (If equipped) The fog lamps act as a supplement to the low beam headlamps under limited visibility conditions such as rain, snow, dust or fog. The fog lamps operate only when the low beam headlamps are on. To operate the fog lamps, turn the headlamp control knob to the second position (headlamps on) and pull the knob out. An indicator lamp will glow when the fog lamps are on. To turn off, push the headlamp control knob in. To maximize fog lamp bulb life it is recommended that the fog lamp switch be turned off after each use prior to turning off the headlamps.

78

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Instrument Panel Controls

Daytime Running Light System (Canadian vehicles only) The Daytime Running Light (DRL) system is designed to turn the high beam headlamps on, with a reduced light output and without illuminating the high beam indicator lamp in the instrument panel. The DRL system operates when all of the following conditions are met: n The vehicle is “running.” n The headlamp system is in the OFF position. The high beam indicator light on the instrument cluster will not be on. A flashing high beam light in the instrument cluster indicates a failure in the DRL system circuit, like a burnt bulb or fuse.

RWARNING

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.

Cleaning the Exterior Lamps Do not use dry paper towel, chemical solvents or abrasive