check transmission fluid Mercury Sable 2004 Owner's Manuals

This acts as a reminder that these warning conditions still exist within
the vehicle.
Warnings Status
Driver’s door ajar Warning cannot be reset (CLOSE
DOOR TO RESET) will be displayed
Passenger door ajar
Left rear door ajar
Right rear door ajar
Park brake engaged RELEASE PARK BRAKE will be
displayed
Check engine temp Warning returns after 10 minutes
Transmission overheated
Check transmission
Low fuel level
Check fuel cap
Check charging system
Oil pressure low
Check brake system
Low brake fluid Warning returns after the ignition key
is turned from OFF to RUN
Liftgate ajar (if equipped)
Check Traction Control (if
equipped)
Data error
DRIVER’S DOOR AJAR.Displayed when the driver’s door is not
completely closed.
PASSENGER DOOR AJAR.Displayed when the passenger side door is
not completely closed.
LEFT REAR DOOR AJAR.Displayed when the left rear door is not
completely closed.
RIGHT REAR DOOR AJAR.Displayed when the right rear door is not
completely closed.
PARK BRAKE ENGAGED.Displayed when the park brake is engaged.
If the warning stays on after the park brake is off, contact your dealer as
soon as possible.
CHECK ENGINE TEMPERATURE.Displayed when the engine
coolant is overheating. Stop the vehicle as soon as safely possible, turn
2004 Sable(sab)
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Driver Controls
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off the engine and let it cool. Check the coolant and coolant level. Refer
toEngine coolantin theMaintenance and specificationschapter. If
the warning stays on or continues to come on, contact your dealer as
soon as possible.
TRANSMISSION OVERHEATED.Indicates the transmission is
overheating. This warning may appear when towing heavy loads or when
driving in a low gear at a high speed for an extended period of time.
Stop the vehicle as soon as safely possible, turn off the engine and let it
cool. Refer toTransmission fluidin theMaintenance and
specificationschapter. If the warning stays on or continues to come on,
contact your dealer for transmission service as soon as possible.
CHECK TRANSMISSION.Indicates the transmission is not operating
properly. If this warning stays on, contact your dealer as soon as
possible.
LOW FUEL LEVEL.Displayed as an early reminder of a low fuel
condition.
CHECK FUEL CAP.Displayed when the fuel filler cap is not properly
installed. Check the fuel filler cap for proper installation. Refer toFuel
filler capin theMaintenance and specificationschapter.
CHECK CHARGING SYSTEM.Displayed when the electrical system is
not maintaining proper voltage. If you are operating electrical accessories
when the engine is idling at a low speed, turn off as many of the
electrical loads as possible. If the warning stays on or comes on when the
engine is operating at normal speeds, have the electrical system checked
as soon as possible.
OIL PRESSURE LOW.Displayed when the engine oil level is low. If this
warning message is displayed, check the level of the engine oil. Refer to
Engine oilin theMaintenance and specificationschapter for
information about adding engine oil.
CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM.Displayed when the brake system needs
servicing. If the warning stays on or continues to come on, contact your
dealer as soon as possible.
LOW BRAKE FLUID.Indicates the brake fluid level is low and the
brake system should be inspected immediately. Refer toChecking and
adding brake fluidin theMaintenance and specificationschapter.
LIFTGATE AJAR (if equipped).Displayed when the liftgate is not
completely closed.
CHECK TRACTION CONTROL (if equipped).Displayed when the
Traction Control
system is not operating properly. If this warning stays
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•Some noise is normal during operation. If the noise is excessive, check
for low power steering pump fluid level before seeking service by your
dealer.
•Heavy or uneven steering efforts may be caused by low power steering
pump fluid level. Check for low power steering pump fluid level before
seeking service by your dealer.
•Do not fill the power steering pump reservoir above the MAX mark on
the reservoir, as this may result in leaks from the reservoir.
If the power steering system breaks down (or if the engine is turned
off), you can steer the vehicle manually, but it takes more effort.
If the steering wanders or pulls, check for:
•an improperly inflated tire
•uneven tire wear
•loose or worn suspension components
•loose or worn steering components
•improper steering alignment
AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE OPERATION
Brake-shift interlock
This vehicle is equipped with a brake-shift interlock feature that prevents
the gearshift lever from being moved from P (Park) when the ignition is
in the ON position unless brake pedal is depressed.
If you cannot move the gearshift lever out of P (Park) with ignition in
the ON position and the brake pedal depressed:
1. Apply the parking brake, turn ignition key to LOCK, then remove the
key.
2. Insert the key and turn it to OFF.Apply the brake pedal and shift
to N (Neutral).
When the key is in the ignition and in the OFF position, the
automatic transmission shift lever can be moved from the P
(Park) position without the brake pedal depressed. To avoid unwanted
vehicle movement, always set the parking brake.
3. Start the vehicle.
If it is necessary to use the above procedure to move the gearshift lever,
it is possible that a fuse has blown or the vehicle’s brakelamps are not
operating properly. Refer toFuses and relaysin theRoadside
Emergencieschapter.
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Driving
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BRAKE FLUID RESERVOIR
The fluid level will drop slowly as
the brakes wear, and will rise when
the brake components are replaced.
Fluid levels between the“MIN”and
“MAX”lines are within the normal
operating range, there is no need to
add fluid. If the fluid levels are
outside of the normal operating
range, the performance of your
brake system could be
compromised, seek service from
your dealer immediately.
TRANSMISSION FLUID
Checking automatic transmission fluid
Refer to yourScheduled Maintenance Guidefor scheduled intervals for
fluid checks and changes. Your transaxle does not consume fluid.
However, the fluid level should be checked if the transaxle is not working
properly, i.e., if the transaxle slips or shifts slowly or if you notice some
sign of fluid leakage.
Automatic transmission fluid expands when warmed. To obtain an
accurate fluid check, drive the vehicle until it is warmed up
(approximately 30 km [20 miles]). If your vehicle has been
operated for an extended period at high speeds, in city traffic
during hot weather or pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be
turned off for about 30 minutes to allow fluid to cool before
checking.
1. Drive the vehicle 30 km (20 miles) or until it reaches normal operating
temperature.
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
3. With the parking brake engaged and your foot on the brake pedal,
start the engine and move the gearshift lever through all of the gear
ranges. Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage.
4. Latch the gearshift lever in P (Park) and leave the engine running.
5. Remove the dipstick, wiping it clean with a clean, dry lint free rag. If
necessary, refer toIdentifying components in the engine compartment
in this chapter for the location of the dipstick.
6. Install the dipstick making sure it is fully seated in the filler tube.
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7. Remove the dipstick and inspect the fluid level. The fluid should be in
the designated areas for normal operating temperature.
Low fluid level
Do not drive the vehicle if the fluid
level is at the bottom of the dipstick
and the outside temperatures are
above 10°C (50°F).
Correct fluid level
The transmission fluid should be checked at normal operating
temperatures 66°C-77°C (150°F-170°F) on a level surface. The normal
operating temperature can be reached after approximately 30 km (20
miles) of driving.
The transmission fluid should be in
this range if at normal operating
temperature (66°C-77°C
[150°F-170°F]).
High fluid level
Fluid levels above the safe range
may result in transaxle failure. An
overfill condition of transmission
fluid may cause shift and/or
engagement concerns and/or possible damage.
High fluid levels can be caused by an overheating condition.
Adjusting automatic transmission fluid levels
Before adding any fluid, make sure the correct type is used. The type of
fluid used is normally indicated on the dipstick and also in the
Lubricant specificationssection in this chapter.
Use of a non-approved automatic transmission fluid may cause
internal transaxle component damage.
If necessary, add fluid in 250 mL (1/2 pint) increments through the filler
tube until the level is correct.
If an overfill occurs, excess fluid
should be removed by a qualified
technician.
An overfill condition of
transmission fluid may cause shift and/or engagement concerns
and/or possible damage.
DON’T ADD IF IN CROSSHATCH AREA--CHECH WHEN HOT-IDLING
DON’T ADD IF IN CROSSHATCH AREA--CHECH WHEN HOT-IDLING
DON’T ADD IF IN CROSSHATCH AREA--CHECH WHEN HOT-IDLING
DON’T ADD IF IN CROSSHATCH AREA--CHECH WHEN HOT-IDLING
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Maintenance and Specifications
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ItemsFord Part Name
or equivalentFord Part
NumberFord
Specification
Engine oil Motorcraft SAE
5W-20 Premium
Synthetic Blend
Motor Oil (US)
Motorcraft SAE
5W-20 Super
Premium Motor
Oil (Canada)XO-5W20-QSP
(US)
CXO-5W20–LSP12
(Canada)WSS-M2C153-H
and API
Certification
Mark
Constant velocity
jointsCV Joint Grease
(High Temp.)XG-5 WSS-M2C258–A1
Engine coolant Motorcraft
Premium Gold
Engine Coolant
(yellow-colored)VC-7-A (U.S.,
except CA and
OR), VC-7-B (CA
and OR only)WSS
-M97B51–A1
Power steering
fluidMotorcraft
MERCONAT FXT-2-QDX MERCON
Windshield
washer fluidMotorcrarft
Premium
Windshield
Washer
ConcentrateZC-32–A WSB-M8B16–A2
1Ensure the correct automatic transmission fluid is used. Transmission
fluid requirements are indicated on the dipstick or on the dipstick
handle. Check the container to verify the fluid being added is of the
correct type. Refer to yourScheduled Maintenance Guideto determine
the correct service interval.
Some transmission fluids may be labeled as dual usage, such as
MERCONand MERCONV. These dual usage fluids are not to be used
in an automatic transmission that requires use of the MERCONtype
fluid. However, these dual usage fluids may be used in transmissions that
require the MERCONV type fluid.
MERCONand MERCONV type fluids are not interchangeable.
DO NOT mix MERCONand MERCONV. Use of a transmission
fluid that indicates dual usage (MERCONand MERCONV) in
an automatic transmission application requiring MERCONmay
cause transmission damage. Use of any fluid other than the
recommended fluid may cause transmission damage.
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Maintenance and Specifications
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A
Accessory delay ..........................48
Air bag supplemental restraint
system ........................107–108, 113
and child safety seats ............109
description ......................108, 113
disposal ....................................115
driver air bag ..........108, 110, 114
indicator light .........................113
operation .................108, 110, 114
passenger air bag ...108, 110, 114
side air bag ..............................113
Air cleaner filter .......................229
Air conditioning ..........................25
Antifreeze
(see Engine coolant) ................196
Anti-lock brake system
(see Brakes) ..............................133
Anti-theft system ........................85
arming the system ....................85
disarming a triggered system ..86
Audio system (see Radio) ...15, 18
Automatic transaxle
fluid, adding ............................214
fluid, checking ........................214
fluid, refill capacities ..............230
fluid, specification ..................233
Automatic transmission
driving an automatic
overdrive .................................138
Auxiliary power point .................47
Axle
lubricant specifications ..........231
B
Battery .......................................194acid, treating emergencies .....194
jumping a disabled battery ....162
maintenance-free ....................194
replacement, specifications ...229
servicing ..................................194
BeltMinder .................................102
Brakes ........................................132
anti-lock ...................................133
anti-lock brake system (ABS)
warning light ...........................133
fluid, checking and adding ....214
fluid, refill capacities ..............230
fluid, specifications .........231, 233
lubricant specifications ..231, 233
parking ....................................134
shift interlock ..........................136
Bulbs ............................................34
C
Capacities for refilling fluids ....230
Cargo area shade ........................69
Cargo cover .................................69
Cargo net ...............................68–69
CD changer .................................20
CD-single premium ...............15, 18
Cell phone use ............................67
Certification Label ....................235
Changing a tire .........................157
Child safety restraints ..............116
child safety belts ....................116
Child safety seats ......................118
attaching with tether straps ..123
in front seat ............................120
in rear seat ......................120, 122
Cigar lighter
Power Point ..............................47
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Index
Index
241

Cleaning your vehicle
engine compartment ..............180
instrument panel ....................182
interior .....................................182
interior trim ............................183
plastic parts ............................181
washing ....................................179
waxing .....................................179
wheels ......................................180
wiper blades ............................182
Climate control (see Air
conditioning or Heating) ............25
Clock adjust
AM/FM/CD .................................18
AM/FM/Tape ..............................15
Compass, electronic
set zone adjustment .................60
Console ........................................66
Controls
power seat .................................89
Coolant
checking and adding ..............196
refill capacities ................200, 230
specifications ..................231, 233
Cruise control
(see Speed control) ....................50
Customer Assistance ................148
Ford accessories for your
vehicle .....................................184
Ford Extended Service
Plan ..........................................172
Getting assistance outside
the U.S. and Canada ..............176
Getting roadside assistance ...148
Getting the service you
need .........................................170
Ordering additional owner’s
literature .................................177
The Dispute Settlement
Board .......................................172Utilizing the
Mediation/Arbitration
Program ...................................175
D
Daytime running lamps
(see Lamps) ................................29
Defrost
rear window ..............................27
Dipstick
automatic transmission
fluid ..........................................214
engine oil .................................190
Doors
lubricant specifications ..........231
Driving under special
conditions ..................................140
through water .........................140
E
Electronic message center .........57
Emergencies, roadside
jump-starting ..........................162
Emergency Flashers .................149
Emission control system ..........210
Engine ........................................233
cleaning ...................................180
coolant .....................................196
idle speed control ...................194
lubrication
specifications ..................231, 233
refill capacities ........................230
service points ..................187–188
starting after a collision .........149
Engine block heater .................132
Engine oil ..................................190
checking and adding ..............190
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USA English(fus)
Index
242

spare tire .................................158
terminology .............................217
tire grades ...............................217
treadwear ........................216, 226
Towing .......................................143
recreational towing .................146
trailer towing ..........................143
wrecker ....................................168
Traction control ........................134
Transaxle
fluid, refill capacities ..............230
lubricant specifications ..........233
Transmission .............................136
brake-shift interlock (BSI) ....136
fluid, checking and adding
(automatic) .............................214
lubricant specifications ..........231
Trunk ...............................68, 70, 73
remote release ....................68, 76
Turn signal ..................................32
V
Vehicle dimensions ...................233Vehicle Identification Number
(VIN) ..........................................236
Vehicle loading ..........................140
Ventilating your vehicle ...........132
W
Warning chimes .........................134
Warning lights (see Lights) .......10
Washer fluid ..............................189
Water, Driving through .............140
Windows
power .........................................48
rear wiper/washer .....................45
Windshield washer fluid and
wipers ..........................................45
checking and adding fluid .....189
liftgate reservoir .....................190
replacing wiper blades .............46
Wrecker towing .........................168
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Index
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