warning LINCOLN CONTINENTAL 2000 Owner's Guide

The engine coolant must be maintained at the correct fluid level
and concentration to work properly. If the engine coolant fluid
level and concentration is not maintained correctly, damage to
the engine and cooling system may result.
When the engine is cold, check the
level of the engine coolant in the
reservoir.
²The engine coolant should be at the ªcold fill levelº as listed on the
engine coolant reservoir.
²If the engine coolant reservoir becomes empty, the LOW ENGINE
COOLANT warning will illuminate in the message center.
²Refer to the Scheduled Maintenance Guide for service interval
schedules.
²Be sure to read and understandPrecautions when servicing your
vehiclein this chapter.
If the engine coolant has not been checked at the recommended interval,
the engine coolant reservoir may become low or empty. If this occurs,
the LOW ENGINE COOLANT warning will illuminate and you will need
to add engine coolant to the reservoir. Refer toAdding engine coolant
in this chapter.
COLD FILL
LEVEL
Maintenance and care
170

Plain water may be added in an emergency, but youmustreplace it with
a 50/50 mixture of engine coolant and distilled water as soon as possible.
Check the coolant level in the reservoir before you drive your vehicle the
next few times (with the engine cool). If necessary, add a50/50
mixtureof engine coolant and distilled water to the engine coolant
reservoir until the coolant level is at the ªcold fill levelº or within the
ªcold fill rangeº as listed on the reservoir (depending upon application).
Have your dealer check the engine cooling system for leaks if you have
to add more than 1.0 liter (1.0 quart) of engine coolant per month.
To avoid scalding hot steam or coolant from being released from
the engine cooling system, never remove the radiator cap while
the engine is running or hot. Failure to follow this warning may result
in damage to the engine's cooling system and possible severe personal
injury.
If you must remove the radiator cap, follow these steps to avoid personal
injury:
1. Before you remove the cap, turn the engine off and let it cool.
2. When the engine is cool, wrap a thick cloth around the cap. Slowly
turn cap counterclockwise until pressure begins to release.
3. Step back while the pressure releases.
4. When you are sure that all the pressure has been released, use the
cloth to turn it counterclockwise and remove the cap.
Recycled engine coolant
Ford Motor Company recommends the use of a recycled engine coolant
produced by Ford-approved processes.
Not all coolant recycling processes produce coolant which meets Ford
specification ESE-M97B44-A. Use of a recycled engine coolant which
does not meet the Ford specification may harm engine and cooling
system components.
Always dispose of used automotive fluids in a responsible manner.
Follow your community's regulations and standards for recycling and
disposing of automotive fluids.
Maintenance and care
172

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
182

Flat tire warning
If the sensors detect a tire pressure lower than 68 kPa (10 psi), the LOW
TIRE PRESSURE warning will appear in the overhead console and the
message WARNING LOW TIRE PRESSURE will be displayed in the
message center, indicating an impending flat tire. If this condition occurs,
your SecuriTire requires service as soon as possible. Refer toServicing
your SecuriTires.
The Pressure Alert System will activate only when the vehicle is moving
faster than 15 km/h (10 mph).
Servicing your SecuriTires
If you cannot service your SecuriTire immediately, replace it with your
temporary spare as soon as safely possible.
Your temporary spare tire can be used until your SecuriTire has been
repaired.
It is recommended that you always have your SecuriTires serviced by an
authorized Michelin tire dealer.Each SecuriTire is equipped with a
pressure sensor around the wheel rim. This sensor could be
damaged when removing and installing the tire.Servicing a
SecuriTire at locations other than your Michelin tire dealer may
adversely affect your warranty.
If you have questions concerning your SecuriTires or servicing, please
call the Michelin Tire Information Line at 1-800-847-3435 or contact your
local Michelin tire dealer.
INFORMATION ABOUT UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADING
New vehicles are fitted with tires
that have a rating on them called
Tire Quality Grades. The Quality
grades can be found where
applicable on the tire sidewall
between tread shoulder and
maximum section width. For
example:
²Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A
These Tire Quality Grades are determined by standards that the United
States Department of Transportation has set.
Maintenance and care
183

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.
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:
²Use only the specified fuel listed.
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 ªService Engine Soonº 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.
Maintenance and care
195

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
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 diagnostics 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 on-board diagnostics system is reset to a ªnot ready for I/M testº
condition. To ready the on-board diagnostics 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
Maintenance and care
196

Accessory delay ..........................76
Air bag supplemental
restraint system ..........104,105,109
and child safety seats ............106
description .......................105,109
disposal ....................................112
driver air bag ...................107,110
indicator light ...............9,108,111
operation ..........................107,110
passenger air bag ............107,110
side air bag ..............................109
Air cleaner filter .......................209
Air conditioning ..........................24
automatic temperature
control system ..........................24
Air filter, cabin ..........................179
Air suspension ...........................129
description ..............................129
Antifreeze
(see Engine coolant) ................169
Anti-lock brake system
(see Brakes) .......................125,126
Anti-theft system ........................79
arming the system ....................79
disarming a triggered system ..80
Audio system (see Radio) .........30
Automatic transaxle .................130
driving with .............................132
fluid, adding ............................174
fluid, checking ........................174
fluid, refill capacities ..............209
fluid, specification ..................211
Axle
lubricant specifications ..........210
Battery .......................................177
acid, treating emergencies .....177
charging system
warning light .............................11
jumping a disabled battery ....156
maintenance-free ....................177
replacement, specifications ...209
servicing ..................................177Belt minder ...............................100
Brakes ........................................125
anti-lock ............................125,126
anti-lock brake system
(ABS) warning light ..........10,126
brake warning light ..................10
fluid, checking and adding ....168
fluid, refill capacities ..............209
fluid, specifications ..........210,211
lubricant specifications ...210,211
shift interlock ..........................130
Break-in period .............................3
Capacities for refilling fluids ....209
CD changer .................................42
Certification Label ....................213
Child safety restraints ..............112
child safety belts ....................112
Child safety seats ......................113
attaching with tether straps ..117
in front seat ............................115
in rear seat ..............................115
Cleaning your vehicle ...............204
engine compartment ..............206
exterior ....................................205
exterior lamps .........................206
instrument panel ....................207
instrument panel lens ............207
interior ..............................207,208
mirrors .....................................205
plastic parts ............................205
safety belts ..............................208
washing ....................................204
waxing .....................................204
wheels ......................................205
windows ..................................208
wiper blades ............................206
woodtone trim ........................208
Climate control (see Air
conditioning or Heating) ............24
Clock ............................................30
Compass, electronic ....................69
calibration ............................71,73
Index
226

set zone adjustment ............70,72
Console ........................................78
overhead ....................................54
Controls
power seat .................................92
steering column ........................48
Coolant
checking and adding ..............169
refill capacities .................173,209
specifications ...................210,211
Cruise control
(see Speed control) ....................49
Customer Assistance ................141
Ford accessories
for your vehicle ......................221
Ford Extended
Service Plan ............................214
Getting assistance outside
the U.S. and Canada ..............220
Getting roadside assistance ...141
Getting the
service you need ....................214
Ordering additional
owner's literature ...................224
The Dispute Settlement
Board .......................................217
Utilizing the Mediation/
Arbitration Program ...............220
Daytime running lamps
(see Lamps) ................................22
Defrost
rear window ..............................29
Dipstick
automatic
transmission fluid ...................174
engine oil .................................165
Doors
lubricant specifications ..........210
Driving under special
conditions
through water .........................135Emergencies, roadside
jump-starting ..........................156
Emission control system ..........195
Engine ........................................211
check engine/service engine
soon light ....................................8
cleaning ...................................206
coolant .....................................169
idle speed control ...................177
lubrication
specifications ...................210,211
refill capacities ........................209
service points ..........................164
starting after a collision .........142
Engine block heater .................122
Engine oil ..................................165
change oil soon warning,
message center .......................165
checking and adding ..............165
dipstick ....................................165
filter, specifications .........167,209
recommendations ...................167
refill capacities ........................209
specifications ...................210,211
Exhaust fumes ..........................123
Floor mats ...................................79
Fluid capacities .........................209
Fuel ............................................187
calculating
fuel economy ................20,21,192
cap ...........................................189
capacity ...................................209
choosing the right fuel ...........190
comparisons with EPA fuel
economy estimates .................195
detergent in fuel .....................191
filling your vehicle
with fuel ....................187,189,192
filter, specifications .........191,209
fuel filler door override ............78
fuel filler door release ..............78
fuel pump shut-off switch .....142
Index
227

gauge .........................................12
improving fuel economy ........192
octane rating ....................190,211
quality ......................................190
running out of fuel .................191
safety information relating to
automotive fuels .....................187
Fuses ...................................143,144
Garage door opener ....................65
Gas cap (see Fuel cap) ............189
Gas mileage
(see Fuel economy) .................192
Gauges .........................................12
engine coolant
temperature gauge ...................13
fuel gauge ..................................12
odometer ...................................13
speedometer .............................13
tachometer ................................13
GAWR
(Gross Axle Weight Rating) .....135
definition .................................135
driving with a heavy load ......135
location ....................................135
GVWR (Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating) .............135
calculating ...............................135
definition .................................135
driving with a heavy load ......135
location ....................................135
Hazard flashers .........................142
Head restraints ...........................92
Headlamps ...................................22
aiming ........................201,202,203
autolamp system .......................23
bulb specifications ..................201
daytime running lights .............22
flash to pass ..............................23
high beam ............................10,22
replacing bulbs .......................197
turning on and off ...............11,22
warning chime ..........................12Heating ........................................24
HomeLink universal
transceiver (see Garage
door opener) ................65,66,67,68
Hood ..........................................163
Ignition .......................................211
positions of the ignition ...........46
Infant seats
(see Safety seats) .....................113
Inspection/maintenance
(I/M) testing ..............................196
Instrument panel
cleaning ...................................207
cluster ...................................8,207
lighting up
panel and interior .....................23
location of components ..............8
Jump-starting your vehicle ......156
Keyless entry system .................85
autolock .....................................88
keypad .......................................85
programming entry code .........86
Keys .............................................47
key in ignition chime ...............12
positions of the ignition ...........46
Lamps
autolamp system .......................23
bulb replacement
specifications chart ................201
cargo lamps ...............................23
daytime running light ...............22
headlamps .................................22
headlamps, flash to pass ..........23
instrument panel, dimming .....23
interior lamps ...............53,54,200
replacing bulbs ..196,197,199,200
Lane change indicator
(see Turn signal) ........................48
Lights, warning and indicator ......8
air bag ..........................................9
anti-lock brakes (ABS) .....10,126
brake ..........................................10
Index
228

charging system ........................11
high beam .................................10
oil pressure ...............................11
safety belt ...................................9
service engine soon ....................8
traction control active ..............11
turn signal indicator .................10
Load limits .................................135
GAWR ......................................135
GVWR ......................................135
trailer towing ..........................135
Locks
autolock .....................................88
childproof ..................................77
doors ..........................................74
Lubricant specifications ....210,211
Lug nuts, anti-theft ...................155
Lumbar support, seats ...............94
Message center .................14,16,20
air leveling disabled .................14
air ride switch off .....................14
check air ride system ...............14
check air suspension ................14
menu button .............................19
reset button ..............................20
system check button ................16
warning messages .....................17
Mirrors .........................................65
automatic dimming
rearview mirror .........................73
cleaning ...................................205
heated ........................................77
programmable memory ............84
side view mirrors (power) .......76
Moon roof ....................................65
Motorcraft parts .................191,209
Octane rating ............................190
Odometer .....................................13
Oil (see Engine oil) ..................165
Overdrive ...................................131
Panic alarm feature,
remote entry system ..................82Parking brake ............................126
Parts (see Motorcraft parts) ....209
Power distribution box
(see Fuses) ...............................151
Power door locks ........................74
Power steering ...................128,129
fluid, checking and adding ....174
fluid, refill capacity ................209
fluid, specifications ..........210,211
Radio ............................................30
Relays .................................143,152
Remote entry system ............81,82
illuminated entry ......................84
locking/unlocking doors ...........81
opening the trunk .....................82
panic alarm ...............................82
replacement/additional
transmitters ...............................83
replacing the batteries .............82
Safety belts (see Safety
restraints) ................12,95,96,97,98
Safety defects, reporting ..........225
Safety restraints ...........95,96,97,98
belt minder .............................100
cleaning
the safety belts ................104,208
extension assembly ..................99
for adults .........................96,97,98
for children .............................112
lap belt ......................................99
warning light
and chime ........................9,11,100
Safety seats for children ..........113
Seat belts
(see Safety restraints) ...............95
Seats ............................................92
child safety seats ....................113
cleaning ............................207,208
easy access/easyout feature ....95
heated ........................................94
memory seat .............................84
Index
229