warning light LINCOLN CONTINENTAL 1999 User Guide

While the system is designed to help reduce serious injuries, it may also
cause minor burns, abrasions, swelling or temporary hearing loss.
Because air bags must inflate rapidly and with considerable force, there
is the risk of death or serious injuries such as fractures, facial and eye
injuries or internal injuries, particularly to occupants who are not
properly restrained or are otherwise out of position at the time of air bag
deployment. Thus, it is extremely important that occupants be properly
restrained as far away from the air bag module as possible while
maintaining vehicle control.
Several air bag system components get hot after inflation. Do not
touch them after inflation.
If the air bag is deployed,the air bag will not function again
and must be replaced immediately.If the air bag is not
replaced, the unrepaired area will increase the risk of injury in a
collision.
The SRS consists of:
²driver and passenger air bag modules (which include the inflators and
air bags),
²one or more impact and safing sensors,
²a readiness light and tone
²and the electrical wiring which connects the components.
The diagnostic module monitors its own internal circuits and the
supplemental air bag electrical system warning (including the impact
sensors), the system wiring, the air bag system readiness light, the air
bag back up power and the air bag ignitors.
Seating and safety restraints
104

How does the side air bag system work?
The side air bag system consists of
the following:
²An inflatable nylon bag (air bag)
with a gas generator concealed
behind the outboard bolster of
the driver and front passenger
seatbacks.
²A special seat cover designed to
allow airbag deployment.
²The same warning light,
electronic control and diagnostic
unit as used for the front air
bags.
²Two crash sensors located under
the outboard side of the front
seats, attached to the floor.
Side air bags, in combination with
seat belts, can help reduce the risk
of severe injuries in the event of a
significant side impact collision.
The side air bags are fitted on the outboard side of the seatbacks of the
front seats. In certain lateral collisions, the air bag on the side affected
by the collision will be inflated, even if the respective seat is not
occupied. The air bag was designed to inflate between the door panel
and occupant to further enhance the protection provided occupants in
side impact collisions.
The air bag SRS is designed to activate when the vehicle sustains
sufficient lateral deceleration sufficient to cause the sensors to close an
electrical circuit that initiates air bag inflation.
The fact that the air bags did not inflate in a collision does not mean that
something is wrong with the system. Rather, it means the forces were
not of the type sufficient to cause activation. Side air bags are designed
to inflate in side-impact collisions, not roll-over, rear-impact, frontal or
near-frontal collisions, unless the collision causes sufficient lateral
deceleration.
Seating and safety restraints
106

BRAKES
Your service brakes are self-adjusting. Refer to the maintenance guide
and or service guide for scheduled maintenance.
Occasional brake noise is normal and often does not indicate a
performance concern with the vehicle's brake system. In normal
operation, automotive brake systems may emit occasional or intermittent
squeal or groan noises when the brakes are applied. Such noises are
usually heard during the first few brake applications in the morning;
however, they may be heard at any time while braking and can be
aggravated by environmental conditions such as cold, heat, moisture,
road dust, salt or mud. If a ªmetal-to-metal,º ªcontinuous grindingº or
ªcontinuous squealº sound is present while braking, the brake linings
may be worn-out and should be inspected by a qualified service
technician.
Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
On vehicles equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), a noise
from the hydraulic pump motor and pulsation in the pedal may be
observed during ABS braking events. Pedal pulsation coupled with noise
while braking under panic conditions or on loose gravel, bumps, wet or
snowy roads is normal and indicates proper functioning of the vehicle's
anti-lock brake system. The ABS performs a self-check at 17 km/h (10
mph) after you start the engine and begin to drive away. A brief
mechanical noise may be heard during this test. This is normal. If a
malfunction is found, the ABS warning light will come on. If the vehicle
has continuous vibration or shudder in the steering wheel while braking,
the vehicle should be inspected by a qualified service technician.
The ABS operates by detecting the
onset of wheel lockup during brake
applications and compensating for
this tendency. The wheels are
prevented from locking even when
the brakes are firmly applied. The
accompanying illustration depicts
the advantage of an ABS equipped
vehicle (on bottom) to a non-ABS
equipped vehicle (on top) during
hard braking with loss of front braking traction.
Driving
120

ABS warning lamp
The
ABSwarning lamp in the instrument cluster momentarily illuminates
when the ignition is turned on and the engine is off. If the light does not
illuminate momentarily at start up, remains on or continues to flash, the
ABS needs to be serviced.
With the ABS light on, the anti-lock
brake system is disabled and normal
braking is still effective unless the
brake warning light also remains
illuminated with parking brake
released. (If your brake warning lamp illuminates, have your vehicle
serviced immediately).
Using ABS
²In an emergency or when maximum efficiency from the ABS is
required, apply continuous full force on the brake. The ABS will be
activated immediately, thus allowing you to retain full steering control
of your vehicle and, providing there is sufficient space, will enable you
to avoid obstacles and bring the vehicle to a controlled stop.
²The Anti-Lock system does not decrease the time necessary to apply
the brakes or always reduce stopping distance. Always leave enough
room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you to stop.
²We recommend that you familiarize yourself with this braking
technique. However, avoid taking any unnecessary risks.
Parking brake with auto-release
Apply the parking brake whenever
the vehicle is parked.
To set the parking brake:
1. Move the gearshift to P (Park).
2. Push pedal downward.
The BRAKE warning lamp in the
instrument cluster illuminates and
remains illuminated (when the
ignition is turned ON) until the parking brake is fully released.
P!
BRAKE
BRAKE RELEASEHOOD
Driving
121

If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow it may be rocked out by
shifting from forward and reverse gears in a steady pattern. Press lightly
on the accelerator in each gear. Do not rock the vehicle for more than a
few minutes, because it could damage the vehicle.
Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is
latched in P (Park). Turn off the ignition whenever you leave
your vehicle.
If the parking brake is fully released, but the brake warning lamp
remains illuminated, the brakes may not be working properly.
See your dealer or a qualified service technician.
Driving with a 4±speed automatic transaxle
Your automatic overdrive transaxle provides fully automatic operation in
either D (Overdrive) or 3 (Third). Driving with the shift selector in D
(Overdrive) gives the best fuel economy for normal driving conditions.
For manual control start in 1 (First) and then shift manually.
To put your vehicle in gear, start the engine, depress the brake pedal,
then move gearshift out of P (Park).
Hold the brake pedal down while you move the gearshift lever
from P (Park) to another position. If you do not hold the brake
pedal down, your vehicle may move unexpectedly and injure someone.
Driving
126

Fuse/Relay
LocationFuse Amp
RatingDescription
12 10A Lighting Control Module
13 15A Lighting Control Module (LCM): RF Turn
Lamp, Right Turn Indicator (VIC), RR Side
Marker Lamps, Tail Lamps, License Lamps,
LR Stop/Turn Lamps, Clock Illumination
14 20A Cigar Lighter
15 10A ABS Evac and Fill Connector
16 30A Moonroof Switch
17 Ð Not Used
18 10A Lighting Control Module
19 10A Lighting Control Module (LCM): Left
Headlamp, DRL
20 15A Multi-Function Switch: Flash to Pass, and
Hazard Warning Input to LCM
21 Ð Not Used
22 ÐÐ Not Used
23 10A Digital Transmission Range Sensor
24 10A Virtual Image Cluster-LF Turn Indicator, LF
Turn Signal
25 10A Lighting Control Module (LCM): Right
Headlamp
26 10A Virtual Image Instrument Cluster, EATC
Module
27 Ð Not Used
28 10A Shift Lock Actuator, Vehicle Dynamic Module,
Virtual Image Instrument Cluster, Rear
Window Defrost, Heated Seat Switch
Assembly, Low Tire Pressure Module, RESCU
29 10A Radio
30 10A Heated Mirrors
Roadside emergencies
139

At zero pressure, the SecuriTires will provide you with a minimum
driving capability of approximately 30 km (20 miles). How you drive and
the actual amount of air pressure left in your tires will determine exactly
how many miles can be driven.
To extend the mileage and help prevent damage to low or deflated tires:
²do not exceed 90 km/h (55 mph). Drive at a reduced rate of speed, if
possible.
²avoid excessive hard steering and braking maneuvers, if possible.
²stop periodically to allow the tires to cool down.
Pressure alert system
Each of your SecuriTires is
monitored by a low tire pressure
sensor. A warning will appear in the
overhead console when the pressure
in one of your tires drops below
acceptable levels or if the system
has malfunctioned.
This device complies with Part 15 of
the FCC rules and with RS-210 of
Industry Canada. Operation is
subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may not
cause harmful interference, and (2)
This device must accept any interference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
Maintenance warning
The LOW TIRE PRESSURE warning will illuminate and stay on when one
of your vehicle's tires drops below 124 kPa (18 psi). The warning light
will also come on and stay lit if the Pressure Alert System has
malfunctioned.
If this warning appears, check the pressure in your tires as soon as
possible and adjust any tire that is low to the recommended air pressure
level.
If the warning remains on after you have adjusted the tires to the
recommended air pressure levels, take your vehicle to an authorized
Lincoln/Mercury dealer for service.
ROOF
LOW TIRE
PRESSURE
OPEN
Maintenance and care
169

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:
²Use only unleaded fuel.
²Avoid running out of fuel.
²Do not turn off the ignition while your vehicle is moving, especially at
high speeds.
²Have 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 charging system warning light, ªService Engine Soonº
light or the temperature warning light, fluid leaks, strange odors, smoke
or loss of oil pressure, 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.
Maintenance and care
182

Do not make any unauthorized changes to your vehicle or engine. By
law, vehicle owners and anyone who manufactures, repairs, items, 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 on or near the
engine. This decal identifies engine displacement and gives some tune up
specifications.
Please consult your ªWarranty Guideº 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 ªCheck Engine/Service
Engine Soonº light is on, refer to the description in theWarning Lights
and Chimessection of theInstrumentationchapter. Your vehicle may
not pass the I/M test with the ªCheck Engine/Service Engine Soonº light
on.
If the vehicle's powertrain system or its battery has just been serviced,
the OBD-II system is reset to a ªnot ready for I/M testº 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:
²First, at least 10 minutes of driving on an expressway or highway.
²Next, at least 20 minutes 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.
REPLACING EXTERIOR BULBS
Check the operation of the following lamps frequently:
²Headlamps
²Tail lamps
²Brakelamps
²High-mount brakelamp
²Turn signals
Maintenance and care
183

Accessory delay ..........................75
Air bag supplemental restraint
system ........................................101
and child safety seats ............102
description .......................101,105
disposal ....................................107
indicator light ..................105,107
passenger air bag ............103,106
Air conditioning
automatic temperature
control system ...........26,27,28,30
Air filter, cabin ..........................166
Air suspension
warning light ...........................124
Anti-theft system .................79,122
arming the system ....................79
disarming a triggered system ..80
Automatic transaxle .................125
driving with ...............127,128,129
Automatic transmission
fluid, refill capacities ................12
Brakes ........................................120
anti-lock ............................120,121
anti-lock brake system (ABS)
warning light ...........................121
fluid, checking and adding ....157
shift interlock ..........................125
Break-in period .............................3
CD player .....................44,45,46,47
Child safety seats
attaching with tether straps ..114
in rear seat ..............................111
tether anchorage hardware ...114
Cleaning your vehicle ...............190
engine compartment ..............191
exterior .............................191,193
exterior lamps .........................192
plastic parts ............................192
washing ....................................190
waxing .....................................191
wheels ......................................191
windows ..................................194wiper blades ............................192
woodtone trim ........................194
Clock ............................................32
Compass, electronic ....................71
calibration .................................72
set zone adjustment .................71
Console ...................................78,79
overhead ....................................55
Controls
power seat ............................92,94
Coolant ...............................160,161
checking and adding ..............159
refill capacities ........................161
Defrost
rear window ..............................31
Emission control system ..........182
Engine
coolant .....................................158
idle speed control ...................164
service points ..........................153
starting after a collision .........135
Engine block heater .................118
Engine oil
checking and adding ..............155
dipstick ....................................154
specifications ...................154,156
Exhaust fumes ..........................118
Floor mats ...................................79
Fuel
choosing the right fuel ...........176
comparisons with EPA fuel
economy estimates .................181
detergent in fuel .....................178
filling your vehicle
with fuel ...........................174,176
fuel filler door override ............78
fuel filler door release lever ....78
gauge .........................................10
quality ......................................177
running out of fuel .................178
safety information relating to
automotive fuels .....................174
Index
202