warning Mercury Villager 1997 s Owners Manual

306
*
[MC27600(ALL)01/96]
Tire Quality Grades apply to new pneumatic tires for use on
this vehicle. They do not apply to deep tread, winter-type snow
tires, space-saver or temporary use spare tires, tires with
nominal rim diameters of 10 to 12 inches (254-305 mm) or
limited production tires as defined in Title 49 Code of Federal
Regulations Part 575.104(c)(2).
*
[MC27700(ALL)01/96]
U.S. Department of Transportation Ð Tire quality grades:The
U.S. Department of Transportation requires Ford to give you the
following information about tire grades exactly as the
government has written it.
%*
[MC27800(ALL)01/96
]
Treadwear
*
[MC27900(ALL)01/96]
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear
rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a
specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150
would wear one and one-half (1 1/2) times as well on the
government course as a tire graded 100. The relative
performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their
use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due
to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences
in road characteristics and climate.
*
[MC28000(ALL)01/96]
Traction A B C
[MC28100(ALL)01/96]
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are A, B, and C,
and they represent the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement as
measured under controlled conditions on specified government
test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have
poor traction performance.
*
[MC28200(ALL)05/96]
RWARNING
The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on
braking (straightahead) traction tests and does not
include cornering (turning) traction.
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Update:Mon Jun 10 15:17:05 1996

Maintenance and Care
307
*
[MC28300(ALL)01/96]
Temperature A B C
[MC28400(ALL)01/96]
The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C,
representing the tire's resistance to the generation of heat and
its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled
conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained
high temperature can cause the material of the tire to
degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can
lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level
of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under
the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B
and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory
test wheel than the minimum required by law.
[MC28490(ALL)06/96]
Warning: the temperature grade for this tire is established for a
tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive
speed, under inflation, or excessive loading, either separately or
in combination, can cause heat build up and possible tire failure.
[MC28600(ALL)01/96]
The information on braking performance and tire quality
grading found in the ªFord Motor Company Passenger Car
Consumer Informationº pamphlet (FPS 12024-92) also applies to
the Villager. This publication is available from your dealer.
%*
[MC28700(ALL)01/96
]
Snow Tires and Chains
*
[MC28800(ALL)03/96]
The tires on your vehicle have all-weather treads that provide
traction in rain or snow. However, during the winter months in
some climates, you may need to use snow tires and occasionally
chains for your tires.
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Update:Mon Jun 10 15:17:05 1996

308
*
[MC28900(ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
When using snow tires, make sure they are the same size
and grade as the tires you normally use on your vehicle.
*
[MC29000(ALL)01/96]
Do not use chains when using a temporary spare. For full size
tires, use chains on the tires only in an emergency or if the law
requires them where you live. When you use the tire chains:
*
[MC29100(ALL)01/96]
n
Make sure the chains are the right size for your tires. Use
only SAE Class ªSº chains. Other types may damage your
vehicle.
*
[MC29200(ALL)01/96]
n
Put chains on tightly with the ends held down securely.
Follow the chain manufacturer's instructions.
*
[MC29300(ALL)01/96]
n
Drive slowly. If you can hear the chains rub or bang against
your vehicle, stop the vehicle and tighten the chains. If you
continue to hear the chains rub or bang against your vehicle,
remove the chains to prevent damage to your vehicle.
*
[MC29400(ALL)01/96]
n
Avoid fully loading your vehicle if possible.
*
[MC29500(ALL)01/96]
n
Remove tire chains at the first opportunity after using them
on snow and ice. Do not use the chains on dry roads.
*
[MC29600(ALL)01/96]
Make sure your suspension insulators and bumpers are not
missing or worn to avoid damage to your vehicle.
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Update:Mon Jun 10 15:17:05 1996

Maintenance and Care
309
%*
[MC35000(ALL)01/96]
Filling the Fuel Tank
[MC35050(ALL)05/96]
Removing the tethered fuel cap
[MC35100(ALL)05/96]1.
Open the fuel door on the driver's side of the vehicle.
[MC35150(ALL)05/96]2.
Slowly unscrew the cap counterclockwise, using caution to
minimize the possibility of fuel spraying.
[MC35200(ALL)01/96]
10-1/2 pica
art:0040219-C
The tethered fuel cap
*
[MC35250(ALL)01/96]
If you lose the fuel cap, replace it with an authorized Motorcraft
or equivalent part.
%*
[MC35300(ALL)01/96
]
RWARNING
If you do not use the proper fuel cap, the pressure in the
fuel tank can damage the fuel system or cause it to work
improperly in a collision.
*
[MC35350(ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
The fuel system may be under pressure. If the fuel cap is
venting vapor or if you hear a hissing sound, wait until
it stops before completely removing the cap.
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Update:Mon Jun 10 15:17:05 1996

310
*
[MC35400(ALL)01/96]
NOTE: If you replace your fuel cap with an aftermarket fuel
filler cap, the customer warranty may be void for any
damage to the fuel tank and/or fuel system.
*
[MC35450(ALL)01/96]
A venting fuel tank is not an abnormal condition. It may be
caused by:
*
[MC35500(ALL)01/96]
n
too volatile a fuel for the weather conditions. Service stations
sometimes sell winter grade fuel in the summer.
*
[MC35550(ALL)01/96]
n
pulling a heavy load on hot days, or at high altitudes.
*
[MC35600(ALL)01/96]
n
extended periods of idling with the engine RPM increased
above the normal idle range.
*
[MC35650(ALL)01/96]
n
parking the vehicle in full sunlight for extended periods on
extremely hot days.
*
[MC35700(ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
Do not overfill the fuel tank. The pressure in an
overfilled tank may cause leakage and lead to fuel spray
and fire.
*
[MC35750(ALL)01/96]
Before you fill your vehicle with fuel, extinguish all lit
cigarettes, other smoking materials, and any open flames.
*
[MC35800(ALL)01/96]
To fill the tank properly:
*
[MC35850(ALL)01/96]1.
Remove the fuel cap. Proceed to add fuel to the tank only if
your vehicle is on level ground.
[MC35900(ALL)01/96]2.
Make sure you pump unleaded fuel and put the nozzle all
the way inside the fuel filler pipe. The fuel tank is normally
full after three automatic shutoffs of the nozzle.
*
[MC35950(ALL)01/96]3.
If you spill any fuel on the body of your vehicle, clean it off
immediately. The fuel may dull or soften the paint if you do
not wash it off.
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Update:Mon Jun 10 15:17:05 1996

Maintenance and Care
313
%*
[MC36750(ALL)01/96
]
Safety Information Relating to Automotive Fuels
*
[MC36800(ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
Automotive fuels can cause serious injury or death if
misused or mishandled.
*
[MC36850(ALL)05/96]
n
Turn vehicle off when refueling.
*
[MC36900(ALL)08/95]
n
Do not smoke when refueling. Fuels are extremely
flammable.
*
[MC36950(ALL)08/95]
n
Do not siphon any fuel by mouth.
*
[MC37000(ALL)02/96]
RWARNING
Gasoline or gasoline blended with methanol can cause
blindness and possible death when swallowed. If any
fuel is swallowed, call a physician or poison control
center immediately.
*
[MC37050(ALL)08/95]
n
Avoid breathing vapors while refueling.
*
[MC37100(ALL)08/95]
n
If fuel is splashed on the skin, wash with soap and water.
[MC37150(ALL)01/96]
n
If fuel is splashed in the eyes, remove contact lenses (if
worn), flush with water for 15 minutes, and seek medical
attention.
*
[MC37200(ALL)01/96]
Gasoline and gasoline blends may contain small amounts of
carcinogens, such as benzene. Long-term exposure to unleaded
gasoline vapors has caused cancer in laboratory animals.
*
[MC37250(ALL)01/96]
If you are taking the medication ªAntabuseº or other forms of
disulfiram for the treatment of alcoholism, vapor or skin contact
with a gasoline-methanol blend may cause the same kind of
adverse reaction as drinking an alcoholic beverage. In sensitive
individuals, serious personal injury or sickness could result.
Consult a physician promptly if you experience an adverse
reaction.
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Update:Mon Jun 10 15:17:05 1996

316
%*
[MC38500(ALL)01/96]
Emission Control System
*
[MC38505(ALL)01/96]
Your vehicle is equipped with a catalytic converter which
enables your vehicle to comply with applicable exhaust emission
requirements.
*
[MC38510(ALL)05/96]
RWARNING
Exhaust leaks may result in the entry of harmful and
potentially lethal fumes into the passenger compartment.
Under extreme conditions excessive exhaust temperatures
could damage the fuel system, the interior floor covering,
or other vehicle components, possibly causing a fire.
[MC38515(ALL)05/96]
Malfunctions in the engine or exhaust system can result in
excessive exhaust system temperatures. Under extreme
conditions (for example, towing a trailer up a steep hill on a
very hot day with a malfunctioning engine or exhaust system),
high exhaust system temperatures could be damaging.
*
[MC38525(ALL)01/96]
To make sure that the catalytic converter and the other emission
control parts continue to work properly:
*
[MC38530(ALL)01/96]
n
Use only unleaded fuel.
*
[MC38535(ALL)01/96]
n
Avoid running out of fuel.
*
[MC38540(ALL)01/96]
n
Never turn off the ignition while your vehicle is moving,
especially at high speeds.
*
[MC38545(ALL)03/96]
n
Have the services listed in yourMaintenance Schedulebooklet
performed according to the specified schedule.
*
[MC38550(ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
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.
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Update:Mon Jun 10 15:17:05 1996

Maintenance and Care
317
*
[MC38555(ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
Do not remove the floor carpet in your vehicle. Emission
controls cause high exhaust temperatures under the floor.
*
[MC38560(ALL)01/96]
Watch for fluid leaks, strange odors, smoke and loss of oil
pressure. Also watch for the charge warning light, the check
engine light, or the temperature warning light. These sometimes
indicate that the emission system is not working properly.
*
[MC38565(ALL)01/96]
Do not make any unauthorized changes to your vehicle or
engine. Changes that cause more unburned fuel to reach the
exhaust system can increase the temperature of the engine or
exhaust system.
%*
[MC38570(ALL)01/96
]
In general, maintenance, replacement, or service of the emission
control devices or systems in your new Ford Motor Company
vehicle or engine may be performed at your expense by any
automotive repair establishment or individual using automotive
parts equivalent to those with which your vehicle or engine was
originally equipped.
*
[MC38575(ALL)01/96]
By law, anyone who manufactures, repairs, services, sells, leases
vehicles, trades vehicles, or supervises a fleet of vehicles is not
permitted to intentionally remove an emission control device or
prevent it from working. In some of the United States and in
Canada, vehicle owners may be liable if their emission control
device is removed or is prevented from working.
*
[MC38580(ALL)01/96]
Do not drive your vehicle if it does not operate properly. See
your dealer if the engine runs on for more than five seconds
after you shut it off or if it misfires, surges, stalls, or backfires.
*
[MC38585(ALL)01/96]
Information about your vehicle's emissions control 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.
File:11vxmcn.ex
Update:Mon Jun 10 15:17:05 1996

Maintenance and Care
319
*
[MC39200(ALL)01/96]
n
hazard flasher
*
[MC39300(ALL)01/96]
n
turn signals
*
[MC39400(ALL)05/96]
n
license plate lamps
%*
[MC39500(ALL)01/96
]
The alignment of your headlamps should be checked if:
*
[MC39600(ALL)01/96]
n
oncoming motorists frequently signal you to turn off your
vehicle's high beams when you do not have the high beams
on
*
[MC39700(ALL)01/96]
n
the headlamps do not seem to give you enough light to see
clearly at night
*
[MC39800(ALL)01/96]
n
the headlamp beams are not pointed slightly down and to
the right
%*
[MC39900(ALL)01/96
]
Headlamp Bulb
*
[MC40000(ALL)03/96]
The headlamps on your vehicle use replaceable bulbs. When the
lamp burns out, simply replace the bulb, rather than the whole
lamp.
*
[MC40100(ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
Handle a halogen headlamp bulb carefully and keep out
of children's reach. Grasp the bulb only by its plastic
base and do not touch the glass. The oil from your hand
could cause the bulb to break the next time the
headlamps are operated.
*
[MC40200(ALL)01/96]
Do not remove the burned out bulb unless you can immediately
replace it with a new one. If a bulb is removed for an extended
period of time, contaminants may enter the headlamp and affect
its performance.
File:11vxmcn.ex
Update:Mon Jun 10 15:17:05 1996

Index
385
A
ABS warning light (see Anti-lock brake system)...... 10
Accessory position on the ignition............. 86
Additives, engine oil.................. 281
Air bag supplemental restraint system
and child safety seats................ 156
description...................146, 148
driver air bag..................146, 148
indicator light..................... 11
operation...................... 148
passenger air bag.................. 148
service and information labels............ 148
tone generator................... 153
wearing safety belts................. 146
Air cleaner filter, location............... 345
Alcohol, in fuel.................... 312
Antenna, radio (see Electronic sound system)...... 29,84
Antifreeze (see Engine coolant)............. 289
Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
description..................... 219
noise........................ 219
see also Brake.................... 219
warning light..................... 10
Anti-theft lug nuts and key............... 263
Anti-theft system, triggering.............. 118
Appeals (see Dispute settlement board)......... 352
Assistance (see Customer assistance)........... 349
Audio system (see Electronic sound system)........ 29
File:vxixn.ex
Update:Fri Jun 14 07:38:49 1996