window Mercury Mountaineer 2003 s Owner's Guide

How does the Safety Canopysystem work?
The design and development of the
Safety Canopy
system included
recommended testing procedures
that were developed by a group of
automotive safety experts known as
the Side Airbag Technical Working
Group. These recommended testing
procedures help reduce the risk of
injuries related to the deployment of
side airbags (including the Safety
Canopy
).
The Safety Canopy
system
consists of the following:
•An inflatable nylon curtain with a
gas generator concealed behind
the headliner and above the doors
(one each side of the vehicle).
•A headliner that will flex to open
above the side doors to allow Safety Canopy
deployment.
•The same warning light, electronic control and diagnostic unit as used
for the front airbags.
•Two side crash sensors mounted at the base of the B-pillar (one on
each side).
•Two side crash sensors located at the c-pillar behind the rear doors
(one on each side).
•Roll over sensor in the restraints control module (RCM).
The Safety Canopy
system, in combination with seat belts, can help
reduce the risk of severe injuries in the event of a significant side impact
collision or rollover event.
Children 12 years old and under should always be properly restrained in
the second or third row seats (if equipped). The Safety Canopy
will
not interfere with children restrained using a properly installed child or
booster seat because it is designed to inflate downward from the
headliner above the doors along the side window openings.
The Safety Canopy
system is designed to activate when the vehicle
sustains lateral deceleration sufficient to cause the side crash sensor to
close an electrical circuit that initiates Safety Canopy
inflation or when
a certain likelihood of a rollover event is detected by the rollover sensor.
Seating and Safety Restraints
126

The Safety Canopy
is mounted to the roof side-rail sheet metal, behind
the headliner, above the first and second row seats. In certain lateral
collisions or rollover events, the Safety Canopy
system will be
activated, regardless of which seats are occupied. The Safety Canopy
is
designed to inflate between the side window area and occupants to
further enhance protection provided in side impact collisions and rollover
events.
The fact that the Safety Canopy
system did not activate in a collision
does not mean that something is wrong with the system. Rather, it
means the forces were not of the type sufficient to cause activation. The
Safety Canopy
is designed to inflate in certain side impact collisions or
rollover events, not in rear impact, frontal or near-frontal collisions,
unless the collision causes sufficient lateral deceleration or rollover
likelihood.
Several Safety Canopy

system components get hot
after inflation. Do not touch them
after inflation.
If the Safety Canopy
system has deployed,the Safety
Canopy
will not function again. The Safety Canopy

system (including the A, B and C pillar trim) must be inspected
and serviced by a qualified technician in accordance with the
vehicle service manual.If the Safety Canopy
is not replaced, the
unrepaired area will increase the risk of injury in a collision.
Determining if the system is operational
The SRS uses a readiness light in the instrument cluster or a tone to
indicate the condition of the system. Refer to theAir bag readiness
section in theInstrument Clusterchapter. Routine maintenance of the
air bag is not required.
Seating and Safety Restraints
127

If the engine fails to start using the preceding instructions (flexible
fuel vehicles only)
1. Press and hold down the accelerator 1/3 to 1/2 way to floor, then
crank the engine.
2. When the engine starts, release the key, then gradually release the
accelerator pedal as the engine speeds up. If the engine still fails to start,
repeat Step 1.
Using the engine block heater (if equipped)
An engine block heater warms the engine coolant which aids in starting
and heater/defroster performance. Use of an engine block heater is
strongly recommended if you live in a region where temperatures reach
-23°C (-10°F) or below. For best results, plug the heater in at least
three hours before starting the vehicle. The heater can be plugged in the
night before starting the vehicle.
To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not use your heater
with ungrounded electrical systems or two-pronged (cheater)
adapters.
Guarding against exhaust fumes
Carbon monoxide is present in exhaust fumes. Take precautions to avoid
its dangerous effects.
If you smell exhaust fumes inside your vehicle, have your dealer
inspect your vehicle immediately. Do not drive if you smell
exhaust fumes.
Important ventilating information
If the engine is idling while the vehicle is stopped for a long period of
time, open the windows at least 2.5 cm (one inch) or adjust the heating
or air conditioning to bring in fresh air.
BRAKES
Occasional brake noise is normal. If a metal-to-metal, continuous grinding
or continuous squeal sound is present, the brake linings may be worn-out
and should be inspected by a qualified service technician. If the vehicle
has continuous vibration or shudder in the steering wheel while braking,
the vehicle should be inspected by a qualified service technician.
Driving
145

Fuse/Relay
LocationFuse Amp
RatingPower Distribution Box
Description
57—PTEC relay
58—Ignition relay
59—Not used
60—PCM diode
61—A/C clutch diode
62 30A CB Power windows circuit breaker
* Mini Fuses ** Maxi Cartridge Fuses
Rear relay box
The relay box is located on the rear passenger side quarter trim panel.
See your dealer or a certified technician for service of this relay box.
The relays are coded as follows:
Fuse/Relay Location Description
Relay 14 Not used
Relay 15 Trailer tow back-up lamps
Relay 16 Not used
Relay 17 Not used
Relay 18 Not used
Relay 19 Trailer tow park lamps
Roadside Emergencies
174

PLASTIC (NON-PAINTED) EXTERIOR PARTS
Use only approved products to clean plastic parts. These products are
available from your dealer.
•For routine cleaning, use Motorcraft Detail Wash (ZC-3–A).
•If tar or grease spots are present, use Ford Extra Strength Tar and
Road Oil Removal (B7A-19520–AA).
WINDOWS AND WIPER BLADES
The windshield, rear window and wiper blades should be cleaned
regularly. If the wiper does not wipe properly, substances on the
windshield, rear window or the wiper blades may be the cause. These
may include hot wax treatments used by commercial car washes, tree
sap, or other organic contamination. To clean these items, please follow
these tips:
•The windshield or rear window may be cleaned with a non-abrasive
cleaner such as Motorcraft Ultra Clear Spray Glass Cleaner (ZC-23),
available from your dealer.
•Do not use abrasives, as they may cause scratches.
•Do not use fuel, kerosene, or paint thinner to clean any parts.
•Wiper blades can be cleaned with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol or
windshield washer solution. Be sure to replace wiper blades when they
appear worn or do not function properly.
INSTRUMENT PANEL AND CLUSTER LENS
Clean the instrument panel with a damp cloth, then dry with a dry cloth.
•Avoid cleaners or polish that increase the gloss of the upper portion of
the instrument panel. The dull finish in this area helps protect the
driver from undesirable windshield reflection.
Do not use chemical solvents or strong detergents when cleaning
the steering wheel or instrument panel to avoid contamination of
the air bag system.
•Be certain to wash or wipe your hands clean if you have been in
contact with certain products such as insect repellent and suntan
lotion in order to avoid possible damage to the interior painted
surfaces.
Cleaning
203

•Resting your foot on the brake pedal while driving may reduce fuel
economy.
•Combine errands and minimize stop-and-go driving.
Maintenance
•Keep tires properly inflated and use only recommended size.
•Operating a vehicle with the wheels out of alignment will reduce fuel
economy.
•Use recommended engine oil. Refer toLubricant specificationsin
this chapter.
•Perform all regularly scheduled maintenance items. Follow the
recommended maintenance schedule and owner maintenance checks
found in your vehicle scheduled maintenance guide.
Conditions
•Heavily loading a vehicle or towing a trailer may reduce fuel economy
at any speed.
•Carrying unnecessary weight may reduce fuel economy (approximately
0.4 km/L [1 mpg] is lost for every 180 kg [400 lb] of weight carried).
•Adding certain accessories to your vehicle (for example bug
deflectors, rollbars/light bars, running boards, ski/luggage racks) may
reduce fuel economy.
•Fuel economy may decrease with lower temperatures during the first
12–16 km (8–10 miles) of driving.
•Driving on flat terrain offers improved fuel economy as compared to
driving on hilly terrain.
•Transmissions give their best fuel economy when operated in the top
cruise gear and with steady pressure on the gas pedal.
•Four-wheel-drive operation (if equipped) is less fuel efficient than
two-wheel-drive operation.
•Close windows for high speed driving.
Flex fuel (E-85) cruising range
Because E-85 fuel contains less energy per gallon than gasoline, you will
experience an increase in fuel consumption. You can expect your Miles
Per Gallon (MPG) and your driving range to decrease by about 30%
compared to gasoline operation.
EPA window sticker
Every new vehicle should have the EPA window sticker. Contact your
dealer if the window sticker is not supplied with your vehicle. The EPA
window sticker should be your guide for the fuel economy comparisons
with other vehicles.
Maintenance and Specifications
233

It is important to note the box in the lower left corner of the window
sticker. These numbers represent the Range of L/100 km (MPG)
expected on the vehicle under optimum conditions. Your fuel economy
may vary depending upon the method of operation and conditions.
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 only the specified fuel listed.
•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 scheduled maintenance guide performed
according to the specified schedule.
The scheduled maintenance items listed in the scheduled maintenance
guide are 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
emission control, such non-Ford parts should be equivalent to genuine
Ford Motor Company parts in performance and durability.
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.
Illumination of the“Check Engine”light, charging system warning light
or the temperature warning light, fluid leaks, strange odors, smoke or
loss of engine power, 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.
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
Maintenance and Specifications
234

Trailer hitch receiver cover
Trailer hitch wiring adaptor
Vehicle security systems
Wheel locks
Protection and appearance equipment
Air bag anti-theft locks
All-weather floor mats
B-pillar trim kit
Cargo liners, interior
Carpet floor mats
Door edge guards
Front end covers (full and sport)
Front hood deflectors
Full vehicle cover
Locking gas cap
Molded splash guards
Moon roof deflector
Rear-air deflector
Side window air deflectors
Skid plates
Tow hooks
Universal floor mats
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.
Accessories
254

plastic parts ............................203
safety belts ..............................204
washing ....................................200
waxing .....................................200
wheels ......................................201
wiper blades ............................203
Climate control (see Air
conditioning or Heating) ............32
Compass, electronic ....................66
calibration .................................67
set zone adjustment ...........66, 69
Console ........................................50
overhead ....................................51
rear ......................................51, 54
Controls
power seat .................................99
steering column ........................60
Coolant
checking and adding ..............219
refill capacities ................223, 244
specifications ..................246, 248
Cruise control
(see Speed control) ....................56
Customer Assistance ................163
Ford accessories for your
vehicle .....................................205
Ford Extended Service
Plan ..........................................192
Getting assistance outside
the U.S. and Canada ..............196
Getting roadside assistance ...163
Getting the service you
need .........................................190
Ordering additional owner’s
literature .................................197
The Dispute Settlement
Board .......................................193
Utilizing the
Mediation/Arbitration
Program ...................................196D
Daytime running lamps
(see Lamps) ................................37
Defrost
rear window ..............................36
Dipstick
automatic transmission
fluid ..........................................237
engine oil .................................212
Doors
lubricant specifications ..........246
Driveline universal joint and
slip yoke ....................................238
Driving under special
conditions ..................................152
through water .........................155
Dual automatic temperature
control (DATC) ...........................32
E
Electronic message center .........68
Emergencies, roadside
jump-starting ..........................183
Emergency Flashers .................164
Emission control system ..........234
Engine ................................248–249
cleaning ...................................201
coolant .....................................219
fail-safe coolant ......................223
idle speed control ...................217
lubrication
specifications ..................246, 248
refill capacities ........................244
service points ..................209–210
starting after a collision .........165
Engine block heater .................145
Index
257

Pedals (see Power adjustable
foot pedals) .................................56
Power adjustable foot pedals .....56
Power distribution box
(see Fuses) ...............................171
Power door locks ........................83
Power point .....................51, 53–54
Power steering ..........................147
fluid, checking and adding ....236
fluid, refill capacity ................244
fluid, specifications .........246, 248
Power Windows ...........................54
Preparing to drive your
vehicle ........................................148
R
Radio ................................17, 21, 25
Rear window defroster ...............36
Relays ................................166, 174
Remote entry system .................85
illuminated entry ......................88
locking/unlocking doors ...........95
opening the trunk .....................85
Reverse sensing system ...........153
Roadside assistance ..................163
Roof rack .....................................81
S
Safety Belt Maintenance ..........119
Safety belts (see Safety
restraints) ..........108, 110–113, 115
Safety Canopy ...................124, 126
Safety defects, reporting ..........199
Safety restraints ........108, 110–115belt minder .............................116
extension assembly ................115
for adults .........................111–113
for children .....................128–129
safety belt maintenance .........119
warning light and
chime ...............................115–116
Safety seats for children ..........131
Seat belts
(see Safety restraints) .............108
Seats ............................................97
child safety seats ....................131
heated ......................................101
memory seat .....................86, 100
Snowplowing .................................7
Spark plugs,
specifications .............243, 248–249
Special notice
ambulance conversions ..............7
utility-type vehicles ....................7
Specification chart,
lubricants ...........................246, 248
Speed control ..............................56
Starting a flex fuel vehicle .......144
Starting your vehicle ........142, 144
jump starting ..........................183
Steering wheel
controls ......................................60
tilting .........................................49
T
Tilt steering wheel ......................49
Tire warning ..............................242
Tires ...........................176, 239, 242
changing ..........................176, 180
replacing ..................................180
snow tires and chains ............243
Index
260