Mercury Villager 1997 Owner's Manuals

211
Starting
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[TO04600(ALL)01/96]
Fuel-Injected Engines
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[TO04700(ALL)01/96]
When starting a fuel-injected engine,the most important thing
to remember is to avoid pressing down on the accelerator
before or during starting. Only use the accelerator when you
have problems getting your vehicle started. SeeStarting Your
Enginein this chapter for details about when to use the
accelerator while you start your vehicle.
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[TO04750(ALL)01/96]
Starting Your Vehicle
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[TO04800(ALL)01/96]
Preparing to Start Your Vehicle
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[TO04900(ALL)02/96]
RWARNING
Do not start your vehicle in a closed garage or in other
enclosed areas. Exhaust fumes can be toxic. Always open
the garage door before you start the engine.
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[TO04950(ALL)01/96]
Before you start your vehicle, always:
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[TO05000(ALL)01/96]1.
Make sure you and all your passengers buckle your safety
belts. SeeSafety beltsin the Index for more details.
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[TO05100(ALL)01/96]2.
Make sure the headlamps and other accessories are turned
off when starting.
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[TO05200(ALL)01/96]3.
Make sure that the gearshift is in P (Park) and the parking
brake is set before you turn the key.
[TO05400(ALL)03/96]4.
Test the warning lights on the instrument cluster to make
sure they work. Refer to theInstrumentationchapter.
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[TO05700(ALL)01/96]
Starting Your Engine
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[TO05800(ALL)01/96]
To start your engine:
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[TO05900(ALL)01/96]1.
Follow the steps underPreparing to Start Your Vehicleat the
beginning of this section.
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[TO06000(ALL)01/96]2.
Keep your foot on the brake pedal and turn the ignition key
to ON.
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212
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[TO06100(ALL)01/96]3.
DO NOT depress the accelerator pedal when starting your
engine. DO NOT use the accelerator while the vehicle is
parked.
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[TO06200(ALL)01/96]4.
Turn the key to the START position (cranking) until the
engine starts. Allow the key to return to the ON position
after the engine has started.
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[TO06300(ALL)01/96]
If you have difficulty in turning the key, rotate the steering
wheel slightly because it may be binding.
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[TO06900(ALL)01/96]
For a cold engine:
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[TO07000(ALL)01/96]
n
At temperatures10ÊF (-12ÊC) andbelow:If the engine does
not start infifteen (15) secondson the first try, turn the key
to OFF, wait approximately ten (10) seconds so you do not
flood the engine, then try again.
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[TO07100(ALL)01/96]
n
At temperaturesabove10ÊF(-12ÊC):If the engine does not
start infive (5) secondson the first try, turn the key to OFF,
wait approximately ten (10) seconds so you do not flood the
engine, then try again.
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[TO07200(ALL)01/96]
For a warm engine:
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[TO07300(ALL)01/96]
n
Do not hold the key in the START position for more than
five (5) secondsat a time. If the engine does not start within
five (5) seconds on the first try, turn the key to the OFF
position. Wait a few seconds after the starter stops, then try
again.
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[TO07350(ALL)01/96]
Whenever you start your vehicle, release the key as soon as the
engine starts. Excessive cranking could damage the starter.
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[TO07360(ALL)01/96]
After you start the engine, let it idle for a few seconds.Keep
your foot on the brake pedaland release the parking brake.
Put the gearshift lever in gear, slowly release the brake pedal
and drive away in the normal manner.
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Starting
213
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[TO07370(ALL)12/95]
NOTE: Your vehicle has an interlock that prevents you from
shifting out of P (Park) unless your foot is on the
brake pedal.
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[TO07500(ALL)01/96]
If the engine does not start after two attempts:
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[TO07600(ALL)01/96]1.
Turn the ignition key to the OFF position.
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[TO07700(ALL)01/96]2.
Press the accelerator all the way to the floor and hold it.
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[TO07800(ALL)01/96]3.
Turn the ignition key to the START position.
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[TO07900(ALL)01/96]4.
Release the ignition key when the engine starts.
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[TO08000(ALL)03/96]5.
Release the accelerator gradually as the engine speeds up.
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[TO08100(ALL)05/96]
If the engine still does not start, the fuel pump shut-off switch
may have been activated. For directions on how to reset the
switch seeFuel Pump Shut-Off Switchin the index.
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[TO08200(ALL)01/96]
A computer system controls the engine's idle speed. When you
start your vehicle, the engine's idle speed normally runs high.
These faster engine speeds will make your vehicle coast slightly
faster than its normal idle speed. It should, however, slow down
after a short time. If it does not, have the idle speed checked.
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[TO08290(ALL)01/96]
If the engine idle speed does not slow down automatically, do
not allow your vehicle to idle for more than 10 minutes. Have
the vehicle checked.
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[TO08300(ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
Extended idling at high engine speeds can produce very
high temperatures in the engine and exhaust system,
creating the risk of fire or other damage.
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214
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[TO08400(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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[TO08500(ALL)01/96]
If you consistently start your vehicle in subzero temperatures,
use an engine block heater (if your vehicle has this option).
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[TO08600(ALL)01/96]
Engine Block Heater (If equipped)
[TO08700(ALL)01/96]
Engine block heaters are strongly recommended if you live in a
region where temperatures reachs10ÊF (s23ÊC) orbelow. An
engine block heater warms the engine coolant, which improves
starting, warms up the engine faster, and allows the
heater-defrost system to respond more quickly.
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[TO08900(ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
To prevent electrical shock, do not use your heater with
ungrounded electrical systems or two-pronged (cheater)
adapters.
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[TO09000(ALL)01/96]
For best results, plug the heater in at least three hours before
you start your vehicle. Using the heater for longer than three
hours will not damage the engine, so you can leave it plugged
in all night to start your vehicle the following morning.
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[TO09005(ALL)01/96]
What To Do If The Engine Does Not Start
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[TO09010(ALL)01/96]
Fuel Pump Shut-Off Switch
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[TO09015(ALL)03/96]
If the engine cranks but does not start or does not start even
after a small collision, the fuel pump shut-off switch may have
been activated. The shut-off switch is a device intended to stop
the fuel pump when your vehicle has been involved in a
substantial jolt. Refer to theRoadside emergenciessection for more
information.
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Starting
215
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[TO09020(ALL)03/96]
Once the shut-off switch is activated, you must reset the switch
by hand before you can start your vehicle.
[TO09025(ALL)01/96]
The fuel pump shut-off switch reset button is located below the
hood release handle.
[TO09030(ALL)01/96]
10-1/2 pica
art:0040048-C
Fuel pump shut-off switch reset button location
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[TO09035(ALL)03/96]
RWARNING
If you see or smell fuel, do not reset the switch or try to
start your vehicle. Have all the passengers get out of the
vehicle and call the local fire department or a towing
service.
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[TO09040(ALL)01/96]
If your engine cranks, but does not start after a collision:
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[TO09045(ALL)01/96]1.
Turn the key in the ignition to the OFF position.
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[TO09050(ALL)03/96]2.
Check under the vehicle for leaking fuel.
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[TO09055(ALL)01/96]3.
If you do not see or smell fuel, push the fuel pump shut-off
reset button down. If the red button is already set, you may
have a different mechanical or electrical problem.
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[TO09060(ALL)01/96]4.
Turn the ignition key to the ON position for a few seconds,
then turn it to the OFF position.
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216
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[TO09065(ALL)01/96]5.
Check under the vehicle again for leaking fuel. If you see or
smell fuel, do not start your vehicle again. If there is no fuel,
you can try to start your vehicle again.
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[TO09070(ALL)03/96]6.
Check all vehicle warning lights before driving your vehicle.
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[TO09100(ALL)12/95]
Guarding Against Exhaust Fumes
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[TO09200(ALL)01/96]
Carbon monoxide, although colorless and odorless, is present in
exhaust fumes. Take precautions to avoid its dangerous effects.
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[TO09300(ALL)02/96]
RWARNING
Do not start your vehicle in a closed garage or in other
enclosed areas. Exhaust fumes can be toxic. Always open
the garage door before you start the engine.
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[TO09400(ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
If you ever smell exhaust fumes of any kind inside your
vehicle, have your dealer inspect and fix your vehicle
immediately. Do not drive if you smell exhaust fumes.
These fumes are harmful and could kill you.
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[TO09500(ALL)01/96]
Have the exhaust and body ventilation systems checked by a
qualified technician whenever:
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[TO09600(ALL)01/96]
n
your vehicle is raised for service
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[TO09700(ALL)01/96]
n
the sound of the exhaust system changes
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[TO09800(ALL)01/96]
n
your vehicle has been damaged in an accident
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[TO09900(ALL)01/96]
Improve your ventilation by keeping all air intake vents clear of
snow, leaves, and other objects.
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[TO10000(ALL)01/96]
If the engine is idling while you are stopped in an open area
for long periods of time, open the windows at least one inch
(2.5 cm). Also, adjust the heating or air conditioning system to
bring in outside air.
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Starting
217
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[TO10100(ALL)01/96]
Read the sectionClimate Control Systemsfor instructions on
bringing fresh outside air into your vehicle. Refer to the Index.
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[TO11000(ALL)03/96]
Removing the Key From the Ignition
[TO11100(ALL)01/96]
OFF/LOCK is the only position that allows you to remove the
key from the ignition. The LOCK feature helps to protect your
vehicle from theft, because it also locks the steering wheel and
the gearshift lever when the key is removed.
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[TO11200(ALL)01/96]
If your key is stuck in the LOCK position, and you are unable
to turn it, move your steering wheel left or right until the key
turns freely.
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[TO11250(ALL)01/96]
To remove your key from the ignition:
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[TO11300(ALL)01/96]1.
Put the gearshift lever in P (Park).
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[TO11400(ALL)01/96]2.
Set the parking brake fully.
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[TO11500(ALL)03/96]3.
Turn the ignition key to LOCK.
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[TO11600(ALL)03/96]4.
Remove the key.
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[TO11700(ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
When you leave your vehicle, place the gearshift lever in
P (Park). Set the parking brake fully, and shut off the
engine. Never park your vehicle in N (Neutral). If you do
not take these precautions, your vehicle may move
suddenly and injure someone.
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[TO11800(ALL)03/96]
RWARNING
Do not leave children, unreliable adults, or pets
unattended in your vehicle.
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219
Driving
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[GF06200(ALL)05/96]
Brakes
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[GF06300(ALL)01/96]
When the foot (service) brake pedal is depressed, the
high-mount brake lamp should illuminate.
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[GF06400(ALL)01/96]
Front Disc Brakes
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[GF06500(ALL)01/96]
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.
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[GF06600(ALL)03/96]
Rear Drum Brakes
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[GF06700(ALL)01/96]
The rear drum brakes are self-adjusting. Automatic adjustment
occurs through normal use of the brakes.
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[GF06800(ALL)05/96]
Four-Wheel Anti-lock Brakes (If Equipped)
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[GF06900(ALL)01/96]
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.
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[GF07000(ALL)01/96]
During ABS activation, a mechanical noise may be heard as the
ABS system cycles. This is normal ABS operation.
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[GF07100(ALL)01/96]
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.
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220
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[GF07200(ALL)01/96]
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.
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[GF07300(ALL)03/96]
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.
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[GF07310(ALL)03/96]
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.
[GF07350(ALL)01/96]
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.
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[GF07400(ALL)03/96]
If Brakes Do Not Grip Well or Pedal is ªLowº
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[GF07500(ALL)01/96]
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.
%*
[GF07600(ALL)01/96]
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.
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Driving
221
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[GF07700(ALL)03/96]
RWARNING
Modifications to the suspension spring rates and/or
vehicle ride height may adversely affect vehicle stopping
ability.
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[GF07800(ALL)01/96]
Stopping Distances
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[GF07900(ALL)01/96]
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.
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[GF08000(ALL)01/96]
Applying the Brakes
[GF08100(ALL)05/96]
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 with ABS equipped vehicles, do not pump the brakes.
Pumping the brakes during an anti-lock stop will diminish
braking effectiveness.
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[GF08200(ALL)01/96]
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.
*
[GF08300(ALL)01/96]
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.
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[GF08400(ALL)05/96]
Using the Parking Brake
[GF08500(ALL)01/96]
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:09vxgfn.ex
Update:Thu May 30 09:54:10 1996