brakes Mercury Villager 1996 Owner's Manuals

Introductory Information
5
[IN04575(ALL)05/96]
When you purchase Ford ESP, you receive peace-of-mind
protection throughout the United States and Canada, provided
by a network of more than 5,100 participating Ford Motor
Company dealers.
[IN04600(ALL)05/96]
NOTE: Repairs performed outside the United States and
Canada are not eligible for ESP coverage.
[IN04700(ALL)05/96]
This information is subject to change. Ask your dealer for
complete details about Ford ESP coverage.
[IN05500(ALL)01/93]
Break-In Period for Your Villager
[IN05600(ALL)02/95]
Your new vehicle will go through an adjustment or break-in
period during the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km) of driving. During
the break-in period, you need to pay careful attention to how
you drive your vehicle.
[IN05700(ALL)01/93]
n
Change your speed often as you drive.Do not drive at one
speed for a long time.
%*
[IN05800(ALL)01/95]
n
Use only the type of engine oil that Ford recommends.See
Engine oil recommendationsin the Index. Do not use special
ªbreak-inº oils.
%*
[IN05900(ALL)01/95]
n
Avoid sudden stops.Because your vehicle has new brake
linings, you should take these steps:
*
[IN06000(ALL)01/95]
Ð Watch traffic carefully so that you can anticipate when to stop.
*
[IN06100(ALL)01/95]
Ð Begin braking well in advance.
*
[IN06200(ALL)01/95]
Ð Apply the brakes gradually.
[IN06300(ALL)05/93]
The break-in period for new brake linings lasts for 100 miles
(160 km) of city driving or 1,000 miles (1,600 km) of highway
driving.
File:02vxinn.ex
Update:Mon Jun 3 08:15:32 1996

Warning Lights and Gauges
69
[LG00800(ALL)01/93]
The following warning lights and gauges are on the mechanical
cluster. All of the warning lights and gauges alert you to
possible problems with your vehicle. Some of the lights listed
are optional. The following section explains what each of these
indicators means.
*
[LG00850(ALL)01/95]
Indicator Lights and Chimes
*
[LG00900(ALL)06/95]
Brake System Warning Light
*
[LG01000(ALL)03/95]
The warning light for the brakes can show two things Ð that
the parking brake is not fully released, or that the brake fluid
level is low in the master cylinder reservoir. If the fluid level is
low, the brake system should be checked by your dealer or a
qualified service technician.
[LG01100(ALL)09/93]
6 pica art:0040050-A
Brake system and parking brake light
[LG01200(ALL)01/93]
The BRAKE light normally comes on when you turn the
ignition key to the ON position to verify that the indicator bulb
is working. If the light stays on or comes on when the engine is
running and after you have released the parking brake fully,
have the hydraulic brake system serviced.
*
[LG01300(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
The BRAKE light indicates that the brakes may not be
working properly. Have the brakes checked immediately.
File:05vxlgn.ex
Update:Tue Jun 4 11:35:19 1996

Driving Your Villager
233
[DR04320(ALL)06/95]
N (Neutral)
*
[DR04340(ALL)06/95]
In N (Neutral), the wheels of the transaxle are not locked. Your
vehicle will roll freely, even on the slightest incline, unless the
parking brake or brakes are on.
*
[DR04400(ALL)06/92]
Parking
*
[DR04500(ALL)06/95]
Always come to a complete stop before you shift into P (Park).
This position locks the transaxle and prevents the front wheels
from turning. To securely latch the gearshift in the P (Park)
position, pull it toward you, push it completely
counterclockwise against the stop, and then push it toward the
instrument panel.
[DR04600(ALL)01/93]
The gearshift is securely latched in Park (P) if you cannot rotate
it in a clockwise direction without lifting it toward you.
*
[DR04700(ALL)06/95]
RWARNING
Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the
gearshift is securely latched in P (Park).
*
[DR04800(ALL)06/95]
RWARNING
Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running.
*
[DR05000(ALL)06/94]
Forced Downshifts
[DR05100(ALL)01/93]
To gain extra acceleration in Drive (D) (when passing another
vehicle) push the accelerator to the floor. The transaxle will
automatically downshift to the appropriate gear - third, second
or first.
File:11vxdrn.ex
Update:Tue Jun 4 11:42:50 1996

234
*
[DR05700(ALL)01/95]
Steering Your Vehicle
*
[DR05800(ALL)01/93]
Your vehicle has power steering. Power steering uses energy
from the engine to help steer your vehicle.
%*
[DR05850(ALL)04/95]
If the amount of effort needed to steer your vehicle changes at a
constant vehicle speed, have the power steering system checked.
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.
*
[DR05900(ALL)01/93]
Never hold the steering wheel in the extreme right or left
position for more than five seconds if the engine is running.
This can damage the power steering pump.
*
[DR06100(ALL)01/93]
NOTE: After any severe impact such as striking large
potholes, sliding into curbs on icy roads, or a collision
involving the front end, have the front suspension
and steering checked for possible damage.
*
[DR06200(ALL)03/95]
Brakes
*
[DR06300(ALL)01/93]
When the foot (service) brake pedal is depressed, the
high-mount brake lamp should illuminate.
*
[DR06400(ALL)01/93]
Front Disc Brakes
[DR06500(ALL)01/93]
The front disc brakes are self-adjusting. They do not require
service other than periodic lubrication of the caliper slide rails
and inspection for pad wear.
*
[DR06600(ALL)10/94]
Rear Drum Brakes
*
[DR06700(ALL)01/93]
The rear drum brakes are self-adjusting. Automatic adjustment
occurs through normal use of the brakes.
File:11vxdrn.ex
Update:Tue Jun 4 11:42:50 1996

Driving Your Villager
235
*
[DR06800(ALL)01/93]
Four-Wheel Anti-lock Brakes
*
[DR06900(ALL)01/94]
The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) prevents wheels from
completely locking up by automatically releasing and
re-applying the brakes. During ABS braking, slight brake pedal
pulsations may be felt on the driver's foot. These pulsations
represent the rapid cycling of the ABS valves. The pedal
pulsations are considered normal ABS operation, and will stop
when normal braking is resumed or when the vehicle comes to
a stop.
%*
[DR07000(ALL)12/93]
During ABS activation, a mechanical noise may be heard as the
ABS system cycles. This is normal ABS operation.
*
[DR07100(ALL)12/93]
The ABS system has self-check capabilities. The system turns on
the ABS warning light each time you start the engine. After the
engine is started and the ABS warning light turns off, the
system performs another test the first time the vehicle reaches
4 mph (6 km/h). A mechanical noise may be heard as the ABS
system performs a self test. This is a normal part of the self test
feature. If a malfunction is found during this check, the ABS
warning light will come on.
*
[DR07200(ALL)12/93]
You should always be careful when braking, even if your
vehicle has the ABS system. Heavy braking on roads with loose
surfaces such as snow or gravel, or roads with severe pavement
irregularities could also cause you to lose control of your
vehicle.
*
[DR07300(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
If the anti-lock brake system warning light remains on or
comes on while driving, have the braking system checked
by a qualified service technician as soon as possible.
*
[DR07310(ALL)06/95]
NOTE: If a fault occurs in the anti-lock system, and the brake
warning light is not lit, the anti-lock system is
disabled but normal brake function remains
operational.
File:11vxdrn.ex
Update:Tue Jun 4 11:42:50 1996

236
[DR07350(ALL)04/94]
Ford Motor Company has not found any negative effects of
mobile radio transmitting equipment installed on vehicles with
the ABS system providing that the radio is installed according
to the radio manufacturer's instructions. However, if you have
had a mobile radio transmitter installed and the check ABS light
comes on (at any time other than immediately after turning the
key to the ON position) have your mobile radio dealer inspect
the installation. Also, if the ABS system is activated other than
during maximum braking, have your mobile radio installation
checked.
*
[DR07400(ALL)12/89]
If Brakes Do Not Grip Well or Pedal is ªLowº
*
[DR07500(ALL)01/93]
If the brake pedal seems ªlowº it may indicate the need for a
brake system inspection and/or service. Apply your parking
brake several times. If the condition has not improved, you
should have your brakes checked as soon as possible.
%*
[DR07600(ALL)01/93]
Occasional brake squeal during light to moderate stops does not
affect the function of the brake system and is normal. However,
if the squeal becomes very loud or if it becomes more frequent,
return the vehicle to your dealer for inspection.
*
[DR07700(ALL)11/89]
RWARNING
Modifications to the suspension spring rates and/or
vehicle ride height may adversely affect vehicle stopping
ability.
%*
[DR07800(ALL)01/93]
Stopping Distances
*
[DR07900(ALL)01/93]
Stopping distances vary with different loads and driving
conditions. Use caution when you drive under new conditions
and acquaint yourself with your vehicle's performance.
File:11vxdrn.ex
Update:Tue Jun 4 11:42:50 1996

Driving Your Villager
237
%*
[DR08000(ALL)01/95]
Applying the Brakes
[DR08100(ALL)06/94]
Apply the brake pedal evenly. Use the ªsqueezeº technique.
Push on the brake pedal with a steadily increasing force. This
allows the wheels to continue to roll while you are slowing
down, which lets you steer properly. In the event of a sudden
stop, do not pump the brakes. Pumping the brakes during an
anti-lock stop will diminish braking effectiveness.
*
[DR08200(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Do not drive with your foot resting on the brake pedal.
This will increase your vehicle's stopping distance and
may also cause brake damage.
*
[DR08300(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
If you are driving down a long or steep hill, shift to a
lower gear. Do not apply your brakes continuously, as
they may overheat and become less effective.
*
[DR08400(ALL)03/95]
Using the Parking Brake
[DR08500(ALL)02/94]
The parking brake pedal is suspended just below the bottom of
the instrument panel to the left of the brake pedal. To set the
parking brake, press the brake pedal with your right foot and
hold it while you push the parking brake pedal down firmly
with your left foot.
File:11vxdrn.ex
Update:Tue Jun 4 11:42:50 1996

238
[DR08600(ALL)06/94]
13-1/2 pica
art:0040281-A
The parking brake
*
[DR08700(ALL)01/93]
RWARNING
When parking, do not use the gearshift in place of the
parking brake. Always set the parking brake fully and
make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in Park
(P). Turn off the ignition whenever you leave your
vehicle. Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is
running. If you do not take these precautions, your
vehicle may move unexpectedly and injure someone.
[DR08800(ALL)02/94]
To release the parking brake, press the brake pedal with your
right foot and hold it while you lift up on the parking brake
release handle.
*
[DR08900(ALL)01/93]
RWARNING
If the parking brake is fully released, but the Brake
System light remains on, have the brakes checked
immediately. They may not be working properly.
File:11vxdrn.ex
Update:Tue Jun 4 11:42:50 1996

Driving Your Villager
239
*
[DR09000(ALL)02/94]
The parking brake is not designed to stop a moving vehicle, but
you can use the parking brake to stop your vehicle in an
emergency if the service brakes fail. However, since the parking
brake does not stop your vehicle as quickly as the normal
brakes, the stopping distance will increase greatly.
%*
[DR09100(ALL)01/95]
Driving Under Special Conditions
*
[DR09200(ALL)01/95]
Tips for Safe Driving
*
[DR09300(ALL)01/93]
As with any new vehicle, yours may drive and handle
differently from your previous vehicle. Use greater care until
you become accustomed to its features and driving
characteristics.
*
[DR09400(ALL)01/93]
Always operate your vehicle within reasonable limits. Abrupt
changes in acceleration, deceleration, turning, or combinations of
these maneuvers can cause a vehicle to behave differently than
anticipated, especially when road conditions vary.
*
[DR09500(ALL)07/93]
For example, even with anti-lock brakes, extreme braking can
make it difficult to control the direction of the vehicle. Use a
ªsqueezeº technique. Push on the brake pedal with steadily
increasing force. This allows the wheels to brake, yet continue to
roll so that you may steer in the direction you want to travel.
*
[DR09600(ALL)01/93]
If you release the accelerator abruptly or brake hard while
going too fast around a severe curve, your vehicle may change
its direction of travel. Avoid applying the brakes, if possible. If
you must apply the brakes, use the ªsqueezeº technique
described earlier.
[DR09650(ALL)07/93]
If you run off the road, do not turn the steering wheel sharply
to return to the road. Instead, slow the vehicle sufficiently and
gradually steer the vehicle back onto the road.
File:11vxdrn.ex
Update:Tue Jun 4 11:42:50 1996

Driving Your Villager
241
*
[DR11100(ALL)01/93]
RWARNING
The Anti-Lock Brake System may not prevent brake
lock-up on extremely slippery surfaces.
%*
[DR11200(ALL)01/95]
High water
*
[DR11300(ALL)05/90]
Do not drive through flooded areas unless you are sure that the
water is below the bottom of the wheel hubs.
*
[DR11400(ALL)01/93]
If you must drive through high water, drive slowly. You may
have limited traction or wet brakes so allow extra stopping
distance because your vehicle will not stop as quickly as usual.
*
[DR11500(ALL)01/93]
After you drive through the standing water, apply your brakes
gently several times as your vehicle moves slowly to help dry
the brakes.
*
[DR11600(ALL)01/93]
Rocking the Vehicle
*
[DR11700(ALL)01/93]
If your vehicle gets stuck (for example, in mud or snow), you
may rock it out. Shift in a steady rhythm between forward and
reverse gears. At the same time, press lightly on the accelerator.
If you are still stuck after a few minutes of rocking, call for a
tow truck.
*
[DR11800(ALL)01/93]
Do not rock the vehicle for more than a few minutes. This may
overheat the engine, damage the transaxle, or damage the tires.
*
[DR11900(ALL)03/95]
Driving With a Heavy Load
*
[DR12000(ALL)01/93]
The Safety Compliance Certification Label, located on the
driver's door pillar, provides important information regarding
the weight limits your vehicle can safely carry or tow. The total
weight of your vehicle, including the weight of the passengers
and cargo, should never be more than the Gross Vehicle Weight
Rating (GVWR). Also, the weight that your vehicle carries on
the front axle and rear axle should never be more than the
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for the respective axle.
File:11vxdrn.ex
Update:Tue Jun 4 11:42:50 1996