1999 Ford Contour Owners Manual

belted, or bias-type tires. Use only the tire sizes that are listed on the tire pressure decal. Make sure that all tires are the same size, speed rating, and load-carrying capacity. Use only the tire combinations recommended on the decal. If you do not follow these precautions, your vehicle may not drive properly and safely.

Do not replace your tires with “high performance”

tires or larger size tires.

Failure to follow these precautions may adversely affect the handling of the vehicle and make it easier to lose control and roll over.

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Dispose of worn tires in accordance with local environmental regulations.

Refer to the Safety Compliance Certification label to determine the specific size tire and wheel Ford Motor Company recommends for use on this vehicle. When purchasing replacement tires for your vehicle, consult your dealer or a qualified service technician to ensure that the correct tire type is used.

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Maintenance and care

Using snow tires and chains

Snow tires must be the same size and grade as the tires

you currently have on your vehicle.

The tires on your vehicle have all- weather treads to provide traction in rain and snow. However, in some climates, using snow tires and chains may be necessary. Ford offers snow chains as a Ford approved accessory and recommends use of these or their equivalents on approved tires. See your dealer or a qualified service technician for more information on tire chains for your vehicle. Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and chains: • Install chains securely, verifying that the chains do not touch any wiring, brake lines or fuel lines. • Install the chains on the front tires only. • Do not use tire chains on 205/60
tires and 205/55R16 Z rated tires. Steering, suspension and body components may be damaged by use of chains.

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Maintenance and care

• Drive cautiously. If you hear the chains rub or bang against the vehicle, stop and retighten them. If this does not work, remove the chains to prevent vehicle damage. • Local regulations may prohibit or restrict the use of tire chains. Investigate the laws and regulations in your area before installing chains. • Avoid overloading your vehicle. • Do not use tire chains on temporary spare tires. • Remove the tire chains when they are no longer needed. Do not use chains on dry roads. • The suspension insulation and bumpers will help prevent vehicle damage. Do not remove these components from the vehicle when using snow tires and chains.

Change over from winter to summer tires as soon as road

conditions allow, this will reduce fuel consumption and noise in the vehicle’s interior.

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Maintenance and care

IMPORTANT FUEL INFORMATON Important safety precautions

Do not overfill the fuel tank. The pressure in an overfilled

tank may cause leakage and lead to fuel spray and fire.

If you do not use the proper fuel cap, the pressure in the

fuel tank can damage the fuel system or cause it to work improperly in a collision.

The fuel system may be under pressure. If the fuel

cap is venting vapor or if you hear a hissing sound, wait until it stops before completely removing the cap.

Automotive fuels can cause serious injury or death if

misused or mishandled.

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Maintenance and care

Observe the following guidelines when handling automotive fuel: • Extinguish all smoking materials and any open flames before fueling your vehicle. • Always turn off the vehicle before fueling. • Make sure the fuel cap is correctly fitted after fueling. Failure to do so may cause the on board diagnostic system to illuminate the CHECK ENGINE light. • Automotive fuels can be harmful or fatal if swallowed. If fuel is swallowed, call a physician immediately, even if no symptoms are immediately apparent. The toxic effects of fuel may not be visible for hours. • Fuels can also be harmful if absorbed through the skin. If fuel is splashed on the skin, promptly remove contaminated clothing and wash skin thoroughly with soap and water. • If fuel is splashed in the eyes, remove contact lenses (if worn), flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. • Be particularly careful if you are taking “Antabuse” or other forms of disulfiram for the treatment of alcoholism. Breathing gasoline vapors or skin contact could cause an adverse reaction. Consult a physician immediately.

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Maintenance and care

Choosing the right fuel Use only UNLEADED FUEL. The use of leaded fuel is prohibited by law and could damage your vehicle. The damage may not be covered by your warranty. Your vehicle was not designed to use fuel containing manganese- based additives such as MMT. Additionally, vehicles certified to California emission standards (indicated on the underhood Vehicle Emission Control Information label) are designed to operate on California reformulated gasolines. If California reformulated gasoline is not available when you refuel, your vehicle can be operated on non-California fuels. However, even though your engine will perform adequately on other gasolines, the performance of the emission control devices and systems may be adversely affected. Repair of damage caused by a fuel that your vehicle was not designed for may not be covered by your warranty.

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Octane recommendations Your vehicle is designed to use regular gasoline with an (R+M)/2
octane rating of 87. We do not recommend gasolines labeled as “regular” in high altitude areas that are sold with octane ratings of 86
or even less. Do not be concerned if your vehicle sometimes knocks lightly. However, if it knocks heavily under most driving conditions on the recommended octane, see your dealer or a qualified service technician to prevent any engine damage.

Fuel quality If you are experiencing starting, rough idle or hesitation problems try a different brand of fuel. If the condition persists, see your dealer or qualified service technician. The American Automobile Manufacturers Association (AAMA) issued a gasoline specification to provide information on high quality fuels that optimize the performance of your vehicle. We recommend the use of gasolines that meet the AAMA specification if they are available. It should not be necessary to add any aftermarket products to your fuel tank if you continue to use a high-quality fuel.

Maintenance and care

MINIMUM OCTANE RATING

(R+M)/2 Method

87

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Maintenance and care

Cleaner air Ford approves the use of gasolines to improve air quality, including reformulated gasolines that contain oxygenates such as a maximum of 10% ethanol or 15% MTBE. There should be no more than 5% methanol with cosolvents and additives to protect the fuel system.

Fuel filler cap If the “check engine” indicator comes on and stays on when you start the engine, the fuel filler cap may not be properly installed. Turn off the engine, remove the fuel filler cap and reinstall it being careful to align the cap properly. If you must replace the fuel filler cap, replace it with an authorized Motorcraft part. The customer warranty may be void for any damage to the fuel tank or fuel system if an authorized Motorcraft fuel filler cap is not used.

The fuel system may be under pressure. If the fuel

filler cap is venting vapor or if you hear a hissing sound, wait until it stops before completely removing the fuel filler cap. Otherwise fuel may spray out and injure you or others.

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Maintenance and care

Calculating fuel economy To accurately calculate your vehicle’s fuel economy: 1. Fill the tank completely and record the initial odometer reading. 2. Each time you fill the tank, record the amount of fuel added (in litres or gallons). 3. After at least three to five fill- ups, fill the fuel tank and record the current mileage reading. 4. Use one of the following equations to calculate fuel economy. Litres used x 100 / Total kilometres traveled. Total miles traveled / Total gallons used. Keep a record for at least one month. This will provide an accurate estimate of the vehicle’s fuel economy.

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Maintenance and care

EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM Your vehicle is equipped with various emission control components and a catalytic converter which will enable your vehicle to comply with applicable exhaust emission standards. To make sure that the catalytic converter and other emission control components continue to work properly: • Use unleaded fuel only. • Avoid running out of fuel. • Do not turn off the ignition while your vehicle is moving, especially at high speeds. • Have the items listed in your maintenance guide and or service guide performed according to the specified schedule. The scheduled maintenance services listed in the maintenance guide and or service guide are required because they are considered essential to the life and performance of your vehicle and to its emissions system. If other than Ford, Motorcraft, or Ford authorized parts are used for maintenance replacements or for service of components affecting emissions control, such non-Ford parts should be equivalent to genuine Ford Motor Company parts in performance and durability.

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Maintenance and care

Do not park, idle or drive your vehicle in dry grass or

other dry ground cover. The emission system heats up the engine compartment and exhaust system, which can start a fire.

Watch for fluid leaks, strange odors, smoke, loss of oil pressure, engine overheating, illumination of the charging system warning light or the check engine warning light. These events could indicate that the emission control system is not working properly.

Exhaust leaks may result in entry of harmful and

potentially lethal fumes into the passenger compartment.

Alternative design

BRAKE

Alternative design

TRACTION CONTROL

O/D OFF

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Maintenance and care

Do not make any unauthorized changes to your vehicle or engine. By law, vehicle owners and anyone who manufactures, repairs, services, sells, leases, trades vehicles, or supervises a fleet of vehicles are not permitted to intentionally remove an emission control device or prevent it from working. Information about your vehicle's emission system is on the Vehicle Emission Control Information Decal located under the hood. This decal identifies engine displacement and gives some tune up specifications. Please consult your “Warranty Guide“ for complete emission warranty information.

Readiness for inspection/maintenance (I/M) testing In some localities, it may be a legal requirement to pass an I/M test of the on-board diagnostic (OBD-II) system. If your check engine light is on, refer to the description in the Instrument Cluster Lights and Chimes section of the Instrumentation chapter. Your vehicle may not pass the I/M test with the check engine light on.

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Maintenance and care

If the vehicle’s powertrain system or its battery has just been serviced, the OBD-II system is reset to a “not ready for I/M test“ condition. To ready the OBD-II system for I/M testing, a minimum of 30 minutes of city and highway driving is necessary as described below: • First, at least 10 minutes of driving on an expressway or highway. • Next, at least 20 minutes of driving in stop and go, city-type traffic with at least four idle periods. Allow the vehicle to sit for at least eight hours without starting the engine. Then, start the engine and complete the above driving cycle. The engine must warm up to its normal operating temperature. Once started, do not turn off the engine until the above driving cycle is complete.

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Maintenance and care

BULB REPLACEMENT Removing the headlamps assembly

Handle a halogen headlamp bulb carefully and keep out of children’s reach.Grasp the bulb only by its plastic base and do not touch the glass. The oil from your hand could cause the bulb to break the next time the headlamps are operated.

The bulbs for the low beam, high beam, turn signals and side lamps are housed in the lamp assembly. To replace a bulb, the complete lamp assembly has to be removed as follows: 1. Switch off the lamps. 2. Open the hood. 3. Remove the lower screw (2) from the headlamp housing. 4. Remove the two upper screws (1) from the headlamp housing. 5. Gently pull the headlamp housing outward. 6. Replace the headlamp bulbs.

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Maintenance and care

Reinstalling the headlamp assembly The gasket lining must be seated properly around the lamp assembly when reinstalling. All bulb connectors must be correctly connected. Install in the reverse order.

Headlamps – low beam Disconnect the electrical connector and replace the bulb. Do not touch the glass part of the bulb and pay attention to the tab guides when replacing.

Headlamps – high beam Replacement instructions are the same as for the low beam headlamp.

Headlamp alignment Check the headlamp alignment after each replacement of a bulb. Refer to Aiming the headlamps.

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Maintenance and care

Front turn signal/side lamps Pull the socket out. Pull the bulb out and replace it.

Foglamps (if equipped) 1. Turn the bulb counterclockwise and pull it out of the light assembly. 2. Remove the electrical connector. 3. Fit the new bulb in reverse order (do not touch the glass part of the bulb).

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Maintenance and care

Brake/turn signal/tail lamps 1. Disconnect the electrical connector. 2. Turn the socket counterclockwise and pull it out. 3. Turn the bulb counterclockwise and pull it out. 4. To install, fit the new bulb in reverse order.

Backup lamps The backup lamps are located in the trunk lid. Replacement instructions are the same as for the brake/turn signal/tail lamps.

License plate lamp Pry out the light assembly with a flat-bladed screwdriver. Remove the bulb from the clip holder. Replace with the new bulb in reverse sequence.

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Maintenance and care

High-mounted brake lamp Enter the rear seat compartment. 1. Remove the high mounted stop lamp assembly. 2. Remove the red bulb cover. 3. Remove inoperative stop lamp bulb. To install, fit the new bulb in reverse sequence. On vehicles equipped with a rear spoiler, the high-mounted brake lamp is included in the spoiler. See your dealer for repair.

Luggage compartment lamp Pry out the light assembly from the holder with a flat screwdriver. Turn the spherical bulb under slight pressure counterclockwise and remove.

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Interior lamps with reading lamps (if equipped) Remove the clip located on lens to access the center bulb. To replace the reading lamp bulbs, remove the two retaining screws to access the back of the lamp. Then, unclip the bulb covers and replace the bulb.

Interior lamps (sunroof equipped vehicles) Open the lamp assembly. The bulbs can be replaced after the contact plate has been hinged back.

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Maintenance and care

Bulb specifications

Function

Front /turn lamp

Headlamp (high)

Headlamp (low)

Foglamp/License plate lamp

Rear tail/turn/brake lamp

Backup lamp

High-mounted brake lamp

License plate lamp

Interior lamp

Reading lamp

Trade number

3457 NA

9005

9006

893

1157

1156

2723

C5W 211-2

578

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Maintenance and care

AIMING THE HEADLAMPS The alignment of your headlamps should be checked if: • Oncoming motorists frequently signal you to deactivate your high beams, and your high beams are not activated. • The headlamps do not seem to provide enough light for clear night vision. • The headlamp beams are pointed substantially away from a slightly down and to the right position.

Aiming the headlamps Your vehicle is equipped with a Vehicle Headlamp Aim Device (VHAD) on each headlamp body. Each headlamp may be properly aimed in the horizontal direction (left/right) and the vertical direction (up/down). A non-zero bubble reading (vertical indicator) does not necessarily indicate out-of-aim headlamps. If your vehicle is not positioned on a level surface, the slope will be included in the vertical indication. Therefore, vertical and horizontal headlamp adjustment should be performed only when beam direction appears to be incorrect.

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Maintenance and care

You will need one 7 mm box wrench, open end wrench or T-15
Torx drive. If the vehicle has been in an accident, the vehicle’s front structure should be properly aligned before aiming the headlamps.

Adjusting the horizontal aim 1. Make sure the vehicle is on a level surface. 2.With the hood open, locate the horizontal indicator and adjusting screw. Through the viewing hole on the outboard side of the headlamp. 3. Turn the horizontal adjusting screw until the “0” reference mark on the horizontal indicator aligns with the arrow pointer on the adjusting screw assembly.

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Adjusting the vertical aim The numbers shown on the vial indicate beam direction in degrees up or down. 1. Make sure the vehicle is on level ground. 2. With the hood open, locate the bubble level vertical aim indicator, and adjusting screw. It is visible when viewed from the above the rear of the headlamp. 3. Turn the vertical adjusting screw until the bubble is centered over the “O” reference mark on the vertical indicatior. 4. When the horizontal and vertical indicators are set on “O”, the headlamp are properly aimed.

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Maintenance and care

VEHICLE CARE Washing your vehicle

Only use car washing areas that have environmentally

friendly drainage systems.

Wash your vehicle regularly with cold or lukewarm water. Never use strong detergents or soap. If your vehicle is particularly dirty, use a quality car wash detergent. Always use a clean sponge, washing glove or similar device and plenty of water for best results. To avoid spots, avoid washing when the hood is still warm, immediately after or during exposure to strong sunlight.

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Maintenance and care

During winter months, it is especially important to wash the vehicle on a regular basis. Large quantities of dirt and road salt are difficult to remove, and they also cause damage to the vehicle. Remove or lower any exterior accessories, such as antennas, before entering a car wash. Remove particles such as bird droppings, tree sap, insect remains, tar spots, road salt and industrial fallout immediately. After washing, apply the brakes several times to dry them.

Waxing your vehicle The best way to determine when the paintwork needs waxing is by noting when water stops beading on the surface. This could be every three or four months depending on operating conditions. Use only carnauba or synthetic- based waxes. Remove any bugs and tar before waxing the vehicle. Use cleaning fluid or alcohol with a clean cloth to remove bugs. Use tar remover to remove any tar spots.

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Maintenance and care

Repairing paint chips Minor scratches or paint damage from road debris may be repaired with touch-up paint, paint repair foil or aerosol spray from the Ford accessories line. Observe the application instructions on the products.

Cleaning the wheels Wash the wheels with the same detergent you use to clean the body of your vehicle. Do not use acid-based wheel cleaners, steel wool, fuel or strong detergents. Never use abrasives that will damage the finish of special wheel surfaces. Use a tar remover to remove grease and tar.

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Cleaning the engine Engines are more efficient when they are clean because grease and dirt buildup act as insulators and keep the engine warmer than normal. Follow these guidelines to clean your engine: • Take care when using a power washer to clean the engine. The high pressure fluid could penetrate the sealed parts and cause damage. • Do not spray with cold water, to avoid cracking the engine block. • Cover the alternator to prevent water damage when cleaning the engine. • Never wash or rinse the engine while it is running; water in the running engine may cause internal damage.

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Maintenance and care

Cleaning plastic exterior parts Use a vinyl cleaner for routine cleaning of plastic. Clean with a tar remover if necessary. Do not clean plastic parts with thinners, solvents or petroleum-based cleaners.

Cleaning the exterior lamps Wash the exterior lamps with the same detergent you use to wash the exterior of your vehicle. Use glass cleaner or tar remover if necessary. To avoid scratching the lamps, do not use a dry paper towel, chemical solvents or abrasive cleaners to clean the lamps.

Cleaning the wiper blades If the wiper blades do not wipe properly, clean both the windshield and wiper blades using undiluted windshield wiper solution or a mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. To avoid damaging the blades, do not use fuel, kerosene, paint thinner or other solvents.

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Maintenance and care

Cleaning the instrument panel Clean the instrument panel with a damp cloth, then dry with a dry cloth. Any cleaner or polish that increases the gloss of the upper portion of the instrument panel should be avoided. The dull finish in this area is to help protect the driver from undesirable windshield reflection.

Cleaning the interior fabric Remove dust and loose dirt with a whisk broom or a vacuum cleaner. Remove fresh spots immediately. Follow the directions that come with the cleaner.

Cleaning leather seats (if equipped) For routine cleaning, wipe the surface with a soft, damp cloth. For more thorough cleaning, wipe the surface with a leather and vinyl cleaner or a mild soap.

x 1000

55

50

60

40

40
30
20
10

60 70 80

100

120

80

140

0 0 0 12 3

20

0 0 0 0

MPH

160

90
100
110
120

180

200

130

TRACTION CONTROL

O/D OFF

CHECK ENGINE

MIRRO R S

LO

OFF

PANEL A/C MAX A/C

HI

PNL/FLR

FLOOR FLR DEF DEF

POWER

AUDIO

AM/FM

VOLUME

SCAN

ANS

EJECT

CLOCK

SEEK

SIDE

1-2

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Maintenance and care

Cleaning and maintaining the safety belts Clean the safety belts with a mild soap solution recommended for cleaning upholstery or carpets and warm water. Do not bleach or dye the belts, because these actions may weaken the belt webbing. Check the safety belt system periodically to make sure there are no nicks, wear or cuts.

Ford recommends that all safety belt assemblies and

attaching hardware should be inspected by a qualified technician after any collision. Safety belt assemblies not in use during a collision should also be inspected and replaced if either damage or improper operation is noted.

Cleaning and caring for your vehicle Refer to the Customer assistance chapter for a list of Ford-approved cleaners, polishes and waxes.

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Capacities and specifications

Motorcraft parts

Component

2.0 litre engine

2.5 litre engine

Part number

Spark plug*

Air filter

Passenger compartment air filter

Fuel filter

Oil filter

Battery

PCV valve

Crankcase ventilation filter

AZFS-22F # 1+2** AZFS-22FE# 3+4

FA-1612

FP4

FG-800A

FL-2005

BXT-40R

EV-224

FA-1621

AWSF-32F

FA-1613

FP4

FG-800A

FL-820

BXT-40R

EV-152

—

* Refer to Vehicle Emission Control Information (VECI) decal for spark plug and gap specifications. ** If a spark plug is removed for examination, it must be reinstalled in the same cylinder.

If a spark plug needs to be replaced, use only spark plugs with the service part number suffix letter “FE” as shown on the engine decal.

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Capacities and specifications

Capacities

Engine oil - with filter - without

Manual transaxle

Automatic transaxle with oil cooler

Power steering

Cooling system with heating

Windshield washer fluid

Fuel tank

Braking system

* Total capacity ** with automatic transaxle

2.0 litre engine

2.5 litre engine

4.25 l (4.5 qts) 3.75 l (4.0 qts)

5.5 l (5.8 qts) 5.0 l (5.3 qts)

1.9 l (2.0 qts)

8.5 l (9.0 qts.)

9.6 l (10.2 qts)

Fill to MAX mark

6.6 l (7.0 qts)* 7.1 l (7.5 qts)**

9.5 l (10.0 qts)* 9.7 l (10.2 qts)**

Fill to top of reservoir

58.5 l (15.4 gallons)

Fill to MAX mark

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Capacities and specifications

Lubricant Specifications

Item

Brake fluid

Ford part name or equivalent

Ford

part number

High performance DOT 3 brake fluid, DOT 4 brake fluid or Super DOT 4

C6AZ-19542-AB

for DOT 3

Engine coolant

Premium engine

E2FZ-19549-AA

coolant

CXC-8-B

Ford

specification ESA-M6C25-A

(DOT 3)

ESD-M6C57-A (Super DOT 4)

ESE-M97B44-A

Engine oil

Power steering fluid

Transaxle fluid automatic/ 5-speed manual

Windshield washer fluid

Motorcraft motor oil 5W-30 super

premium

MERCON® power steering

fluid

Motorcraft*

MERCON® ATF

XO-5W30-QSP

American Petroleum Institute Certification

Mark and

WSS-M2C153-G

E6AZ-19582-AA

ESW-M2C33-F

XT-2-QDX

MERCON®

Ultra-clear

C9AZ-19550-AC

windshield washer

concentrate

or

ESR-M17P5-A

C9AZ-19550-BC

* Use only MERCON® approved transmission/transaxle fluid. Use of any fluid approved and/or labeled

for MERCON® V may cause internal transaxle damage.

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Capacities and specifications

Engine data

Engine

Capacity

Power output

Max. torque

Fuel required

Continuous engine speed

Max. intermittent engine speed

Idle speed (manual transaxle)

Mixture preparation

Firing order

Spark plug gap

Ignition system

2.0 litre Engine

1988

96 (125)

5500

176 (130)

4000

cm3
kW (HP) at rpm Nm (lb-ft) at rpm

2.5 litre Engine

2544

125 (170)

6250

220 (162)

4250

rpm

rpm

rpm

mm

87 Octane

6150

6375

6700

6925

800±50
(880±50)

725±50
(725±50)

Injection system

1-3-4-2

1-4-2-5-3-6

1.3

Electronically controlled

Valve clearances

Inlet Exhaust

0.14 mm 0.30 mm

0.11-0.18* 0.27-0.34*

Hydraulic valve

adjusters

* Mechanical valve adjuster

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Capacities and specifications

Dimensions

A = Maximum length

B = Overall width (without mirrors)

mm (inches)

4556 (179.4)

1751 (68.9)

C = Overall height (curb weight)

1380 - 1427 (54.3 - 56.2)

D = Wheelbase

E = Track

* Dependent on tire size

2704 (106.5)

Front

Rear

1499 - 1518* (59.0 - 59.8)

1483 - 1502* (58.4 - 59.1)

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Capacities and specifications

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER The vehicle identification number (VIN) is attached to a metal tag and is located on the front driver’s side of the instrument panel. The VIN tag may be seen by looking through the windshield from the outside of the vehicle.

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GETTING ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE To fully assist you should you have a vehicle concern. Ford offers a complimentary roadside assistance program. This program is separate from the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. The service is available: • 24-hours, seven days a week • for the Basic warranty period (Canada) or New Vehicle Limited Warranty period (U.S.) of three years or 60,000 km (36,000 miles), whichever comes first on Ford and Mercury vehicles, and four years or 80,000 km (50,000 miles) on Lincoln vehicles. In the United States, you may purchase additional roadside assistance coverage beyond this period through the Ford Auto Club by contacting your Ford or Lincoln- Mercury dealer. • Roadside assistance will cover • changing a flat tire • jump-starts • lock-out assistance • fuel delivery towing to the nearest Ford of Canada or Ford Motor Company dealership, or towing to your selling dealership if within 56 km (35 miles). Even non-warranty related tows, like accidents or getting stuck in the mud or snow, are covered (some exclusions apply, such as impound towing or repossession.

Customer assistance

Using roadside assistance Complete the roadside assistance identification card and place it in your wallet for quick reference. In the United States, this card is found in the Owner Guide portfolio in the glove compartment in Ford vehicles and is mailed to you if you own a Mercury or Lincoln. In Canada, it's found in the Roadside Assistance book in the glove compartment. To receive roadside assistance in the United States for Ford or Mercury vehicles, call 1-800-241-3673 or if you own a Lincoln vehicle, call 1-800-521-4140. In Canada call 1-800-665-2006. Should you need to arrange assistance for yourself, Ford will reimburse a reasonable amount. To obtain information about reimbursement, call 1-800-241-3673 in the United States for Ford or Mercury vehicles; or if you own a Lincoln vehicle, call 1-800-521-4140. Call 1-800-665-2006 in Canada.

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Customer assistance

Ford extended service plan You can get more protection for your new car or light truck by purchasing Ford Extended Service Plan (Ford ESP) coverage. Ford ESP is an optional service contract which is backed by Ford Motor Company or Ford Motor Service Company (in the U.S.) and Ford of Canada (in Canada). It provides: • Protection against repair costs after your New Vehicle Limited Warranty period expires and • other benefits during the warranty period (such as reimbursement for rentals and towing). You may purchase Ford ESP from any participating Ford or Lincoln- Mercury or Ford of Canada dealer. There are several plans available in various time, distance and deductible combinations which can be tailored to fit your own driving needs. Ford ESP also offers reimbursement benefits for towing and rental coverage. (In Hawaii, rules vary. See your dealer for details.) When you buy Ford ESP you receive Peace-of-Mind protection throughout the United States and Canada, provided by a network of more than 5,200 participating Ford, Lincoln-Mercury and Ford of Canada dealers.

224

If you did not take advantage of the Ford Extended Service Plan at the time of purchasing your vehicle, you may still be eligible. Please contact your dealer for further information. Since this information is subject to change, please ask your dealer for complete details about Ford Extended Service Plan coverage options. Also, please be aware that some ealers offer service contracts that are not backed by Ford Motor Company or Ford of Canada. On the surface, many independent plans appear to be like Ford's. The problem is that they can often require the use of non-factory approved parts and have much more complex and restrictive claims coverage terms than Ford. At Ford Motor Company and Ford of Canada, we are dedicated to providing Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicle owners with programs that will enhance your ownership experience and protect you from unexpected repair bills. Genuine Ford ESP is the only Extended Service Plan that enables us to provide that service.

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Getting the service you need

At home Ford Motor Company and Ford of Canada have authorized dealerships to service your vehicle. When you need warranty repairs your selling dealer would like you to return to it for that service, but you may also take your vehicle to another Ford Motor Company dealership authorized for warranty repairs. Certain warranty repairs require special training though, so not all dealers are authorized to perform all warranty repairs. That means that depending on the warranty repair needed, the vehicle may need to be taken to another dealer. If a particular dealership can not assist you, then contact the Customer Assistance Center. If you are not satisfied with the service you receive at the dealership, speak with the service manager. If you are still not satisfied, speak with the owner or general manager of the dealership. In most cases, your concern will be resolved at this level. Ford Motor Company and Ford of Canada dealerships also carry genuine Ford parts and accessories, providing you with original equipment reliability.

Customer assistance

Away from home If you are away from home when your vehicle needs service, or if you need more help than the dealership could provide, contact the Ford Customer Assistance Center to find an authorized dealership to help you in the United States Ford Motor Company Customer Assistance Center 16800 Executive Plaza Drive P.O. Box 6248
Dearborn, Michigan 48121
1-800-392-3673 (FORD) (TDD for the hearing impaired: 1-800-232-5952) In Canada: Customer Assistance Centre Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited P.O. Box 2000
Oakville, Ontario L6J 5E4
1-800-565-3673 (FORD)

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Customer assistance

Please have the following information available when contacting Ford Customer Assistance: • Your telephone number (home and business) • The name of the dealer and the city where the dealership is located • The year and make of your vehicle • The date of vehicle purchase • The current odometer reading • The vehicle identification number (VIN) If you still have a complaint involving a warranty dispute, you may wish to contact the Dispute Settlement Board (U.S.) or the Mediation/Arbitration Program (Canada). In the United States, a warranty dispute must be submitted to the Dispute Settlement Board before taking action under the Magnuson- Moss Warranty Act, or to the extent allowed by state law, before pursuing replacement or repurchase remedies provided by certain state laws. This dispute handling procedure is not required prior to enforcing state created rights or other rights which are independent of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act or state replacement or repurchase laws.

226

THE DISPUTE SETTLEMENT BOARD (U.S. ONLY) The Dispute Settlement Board is • an independent, third-party arbitration program for warranty disputes • available free to owners and lessees of qualifying Ford Motor Company vehicles The Dispute Settlement Board may not be available in all states: Ford Motor Company reserves the right to change eligibility limitations, modify procedures and/or to discontinue this service without notice and without incurring obligations per applicable state law.

What kinds of cases does the Board review? Unresolved warranty repair concerns or vehicle performance as designed concerns on Ford, Mercury and Lincoln cars and Ford or Mercury light trucks which are within the terms of any applicable written new vehicle warranty are eligible for review, except those involving: • a non-Ford product • a non-Ford dealership

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• sales disputes between customer and dealer except those associated with warranty repairs or concerns with the vehicle's performance as designed • a request for reimbursement of consequential expenses unless a service or product concern being reviewed • items not covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty (including maintenance and wear items) • alleged personal injury/property damage claims • cases currently in litigation • vehicles not used primarily for family, personal or household purposes (except in states where the Dispute Settlement Board is required to review commercial vehicles). • vehicles with non-U.S. warranties Concerns are ineligible for review if the New Vehicle Limited Warranty has expired at receipt of your application and in certain states eligibility is dependent upon the customer's possession of the vehicle. Eligibility may differ according to state law. For example see the unique brochures for California, West Virginia, Georgia and Wisconsin purchasers/ lessees.

Customer assistance

Board membership The Board consists of: • three consumer representatives • a Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealership representative Consumer candidates for Board membership are recruited and trained by an independent consulting firm. The dealership Board member is chosen from Ford and Lincoln-Mercury dealership management, recognized for their business leadership qualities.

What the Board needs To have your case reviewed you must complete the application in the DSB brochure and mail it to the address provided on the application form. Your application is reviewed and, if it is determined to be eligible, you will receive an acknowledgement indicating: • the file number assigned to your application • the toll-free phone number of the DSB's independent administrator • Your dealership and a Ford Motor Company representative are asked to submit statements at this time.

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Oral presentations If you would like to make an oral presentation indicate YES to question #6 on the application. While it is your right to make an oral presentation before the Board, this is not a requirement and the Board will decide the case whether or not an oral presentation is made. Oral presentation may be requested Board as well.

Making a decision Board members review all available information related to each complaint, including oral presentations, and arrive at a fair and impartial decision. Every effort is made to decide the case within 40 days of the date that all requested information is received by the Board. Since the Board generally meets once a month, it may take more than a month before the Board can consider some cases.

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Customer assistance

To properly review your case, the Board needs the following information: • legible copies of all documents and maintenance or repair orders relevant to the case • the year, make, model, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) listed on your vehicle ownership license • the date of repair(s) and mileage at the time of occurrence(s) • the current mileage • the name of the dealer who sold or serviced the vehicle • a brief description of your unresolved concern • a brief summary of the action taken by the dealer(s) and Ford Motor Company • the names (if known) of all the people you contacted at the dealership(s) • a description of the action you expect to resolve your concern • You will receive a letter of explanation if your application does not qualify for Board review.

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After a case is reviewed, the Board mails you a decision letter and a form on which to accept or reject the Board's decision. The decisions of the Board are binding on Ford (and, in some cases, on the dealer) but not on consumers who are free to pursue other remedies available to them under state or federal law.

To request a DSB brochure/application For a brochure/application, speak to your dealer or write/call to the Board at the following address/phone number: Dispute Settlement Board P.O. Box 5120
Southfield, MI 48086-5120
1-800-428-3718
You may also contact the North American Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-392-3673 (Ford). TDD for the hearing impaired: 1-800-232-5952 or by writing to the Center at the following address: Ford Motor Company Customer Assistance Center 16800 Executive Plaza Drive P.O. Box 6248
Dearborn, Michigan 48121

Customer assistance

GETTING ASSISTANCE OUTSIDE THE U.S. AND CANADA Before exporting your vehicle to a foreign country, contact the appropriate foreign embassy or consulate. These officials can inform you of local vehicle registration regulations and where to find unleaded fuel. If you cannot find unleaded fuel or can only get fuel with an anti-knock index lower than is recommended for your vehicle, contact a district or owner relations/customer assistance office. The use of leaded fuel in your vehicle without proper conversion may damage the effectiveness of your emission control system and may cause engine knocking or serious engine damage. Ford Motor Company/Ford of Canada is not responsible for any damage caused by use of improper fuel. In the United States, using leaded fuel may also result in difficulty importing your vehicle back into the U.S.

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Customer assistance

If your vehicle must be serviced while you are traveling or living in Central or South America, the Caribbean, or the Middle East, contact the nearest Ford dealership. If the dealership cannot help you, write or call: FORD MOTOR COMPANY WORLDWIDE DIRECT MARKET OPERATIONS 1555 Fairlane Drive Fairlane Business Park #3
Allen Park, Michigan 48101
U.S.A. Telephone: (313) 594-4857
FAX: (313) 390-9804
If you are in another foreign country, contact the nearest Ford dealership. If the dealership employees cannot help you, they can direct you to the nearest Ford affiliate office. If you buy your vehicle in North America and then relocate outside of the U.S. or Canada, register your vehicle identification number (VIN) and new address with Ford Motor Company Worldwide Direct Market Operations.

FORD ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR VEHICLE Ford has many quality products available from your dealer to clean your vehicle and protect its finishes. For best results, use the following or products of equivalent quality Ford Custom Clearcoat Polish* Ford Custom Silicone Gloss Polish Ford Custom Vinyl Protectant* Ford Deluxe Leather and Vinyl Cleaner Ford Extra Strength Tar and Road Oil Remover* Ford Extra Strength Upholstery Cleaner Ford Metal Surface Cleaner Ford Multi-Purpose Cleaner* Motorcraft Car Wash Concentrate Motorcraft Carlite Glass Cleaner Ford Spot and Stain Remover* Ford Super Premium Tire and Trim Dressing

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Ford Triple Clean Ford Ultra-Clear Spray Glass Cleaner * May be sold with the Motorcraft name A wide selection of accessories is available through your local authorized Ford, Lincoln-Mercury or Ford of Canada dealer. These quality accessories have been specifically engineered to fulfill your automotive needs; they are custom designed to complement the style and aerodynamic appearance of your vehicle. In addition, each accessory is made from high quality materials and meets or exceeds Ford's rigid engineering and safety specifications. Ford accessories are warranted for up to 12 months or 20,000 km (12,000 miles) on all cars and light trucks and 12
months with unlimited distance on medium/heavy duty trucks unless the accessory is installed on a new vehicle, then the warranty becomes the balance of the new vehicle's warranty or the accessories warranty, whichever is greater. See your dealer for complete warranty information and availability. Not all accessories are available for all models.

Customer assistance

Vehicle Security Remote keyless entry Styled wheel protector locks Vehicle security systems Comfort and convenience Air conditioner Air filtration systems Cargo nets Cargo organizers Cargo shades Cargo trays Dash trim Engine block heaters Gear shift knob Luggage presenter (Continental only) Manual sliding rear window Tire step

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Customer assistance

Travel equipment Console Console armrest Daytime running lights Factory luggage rack Factory luggage rack adapters Fog lights Framed luggage covers Heavy-duty battery Neutral towing transfer case kit (Explorer 4.0L only) Off road lights Pickup box rails Removable luggage rack Removable luggage rack adapters Retractable bed hooks and loops Running boards Snow traction cables Soft luggage cover Speed control Towing mirrors Trailer hitch Trailer hitch bars and balls Trailer hitch wiring adaptor

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Protection and appearance equipment Air bag anti-theft locks Bed mat/bedliner tailgate covers Bed mats Bedliners Car/truck covers Cargo liners, interior Carpet floor mats Cleaners, waxes and polishes Flat splash guards Frond end covers (full and mini) Hood deflectors Locking gas cap Lubricants and oils Molded splash guards Molded vinyl floor mats Rallye bars Rear air deflectors Rear decklid spoilers Side window air deflectors Spare tire lock Step bumpers Step/sill plates Tailgate covers Tailgate lock Tailgate protection Tonneau covers Touch-up paint Universal floor mats

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Customer assistance

• Mobile communications systems may harm the operation of your vehicle, particularly if they are not properly designed for automotive use or are not properly installed. When operated, such systems may cause the engine to stumble or stall. In addition, such systems may be damaged or their performance may be affected by operating your vehicle. (Citizens band [CB] transceivers, garage door openers and other transmitters with outputs of five watts or less will not ordinarily affect your vehicle's operation.) • Ford cannot assume responsibility for any adverse effects or damage that may result from the use of such equipment.

For maximum vehicle performance, keep the following information in mind when adding accessories or equipment to your vehicle: • When adding accessories, equipment, passengers and luggage to your vehicle, do not exceed the total weight capacity of the vehicle or of the front or rear axle (GVWR or GAWR as indicated on the Safety compliance certification label). Consult your dealer for specific weight information. • The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Canadian Radio Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) regulate the use of mobile communications systems - such as two-way radios, telephones and theft alarms - that are equipped with radio transmitters. Any such equipment installed in your vehicle should comply with FCC or CRTC regulations and should be installed only by a qualified service technician.

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Customer assistance

ORDERING ADDITIONAL OWNER'S LITERATURE To order the publications in this portfolio in the United States: Make checks payable to: HELM, INCORPORATED P.O. Box 07150
Detroit, Michigan, 48207
For a free publication catalog, order toll free: 1-800-782-4356
Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 6:00
p.m. EST., for credit card holders only. To order the publications in this portfolio in Canada Make cheques payable to: Ford Motor Company of Canada, Ltd. Service Publications P.O. Box 1580, Station B Mississauga, Ontario, Canada L4Y 4G3
or order toll free: 1-800-387-4966
Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 6:00
p.m. EST., for credit card holders only.

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Reporting safety defects

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS (U.S. ONLY) If you believe that your vehicle has a defect that could cause a crash, or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to Ford Motor Company. If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer or Ford Motor Company. To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll–free at 1-800-424-9393 (202-366-0123 in the Washington D.C. area) or write to NHTSA

U.S.Department of Transportation

400 Seventh Street

Washington D.C. 20590

You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the hotline.

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Index

Page

Accessory position on the ignition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
Additives, engine oil . . . . . . . . .165
Air bag supplemental restraint system

and child safety seats . . . . . . . .84
description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
indicator light . . . . . . . . . . .13, 87
operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85
wearing safety belts . . . . . . . . .83

Air conditioning (see Climate control system) Alarm, activating panic . . . . . . . .67
Antenna, radio (see Audio sytem) . . . . . . . . . . . .51
Anti-lock brake system (ABS) .112
Anti-theft system (see Passive Anti-Theft System) . . . . . . . . . . .69
Antifreeze (see Engine coolant) Audio system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Automatic transaxle

driving with . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119
fluid, adding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .174
fluid, checking . . . . . . . . . . . . .174
fluid, refill capacities . . . . . . . .218
fluid, specification . . . . . . . . . .219

Brake fluid

Page

checking and adding . . . . . . . .168
specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . .219
Brake-shift interlock . . . . . . . . .118
Brakelamps (see Bulb replacement) Brakes

anti-lock brake system (ABS) 112
brake warning light . . . . . . . . . .14
fluid, checking and adding . . .168
fluid, refill capacities . . . . . . . .218
fluid, specification . . . . . . . . . .219
parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .114

Built-in child seat

folding up the seat . . . . . . . . . .98
inspection after a collision . . . .98
interlock safety feature . . . . . . .94
operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93
retractors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97
Break-in period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Bulbs, replacing

foglamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202
headlamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .200
high-mounted brake lamp . . . .204
license plate lamp . . . . . . . . . .203
rear lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .203
specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . .206

Backing up . . . . . . . . . . . . .119, 125
Battery

charging system warning light . .7
jumping a disabled battery . . .150
proper disposal, recycling . . . .178