lock Mercury Villager 1998 s Workshop Manual

NOTE: Your vehicle has an interlock that prevents you from
shifting out of P (Park) unless your foot is on the brake
pedal.
If the engine does not start after two attempts:
1. Turn the ignition key to the OFF position.
2. Press the accelerator all the way to the floor and hold it.
3. Turn the ignition key to the START position.
4. Release the ignition key when the engine starts.
5. Release the accelerator gradually as the engine speeds up.
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.
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.
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.
WARNING
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.
Starting
209

WARNING
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.
If you consistently start your vehicle in subzero temperatures, use
an engine block heater (if your vehicle has this option). If your
vehicle does not have this option, it is available thru your dealer.
Engine Block Heater (Canada only)
Engine block heaters are strongly recommended if you live in a
region where temperatures reach ±10É F (±23É C) or below. 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.
WARNING
To prevent electrical shock, do not use your heater with
ungrounded electrical systems or two-pronged (cheater)
adapters.
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.
What To Do If The Engine Does Not Start
Fuel Pump Shut-Off Switch
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.
210

Read the sectionClimate Control Systemsfor instructions on
bringing fresh outside air into your vehicle. Refer to the Index.
Removing the Key From the Ignition
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.
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 in the lock.
To remove your key from the ignition:
1. Put the gearshift lever in P (Park).
2. Set the parking brake fully.
3. Turn the ignition key to LOCK.
4. Remove the key.
WARNING
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.
WARNING
Do not leave children, unreliable adults, or pets
unattended in your vehicle.
Starting
213

Brakes
When the foot (service) brake pedal is depressed, the high-mount
brake lamp should illuminate.
Occasional brake noise is normal and often does not indicate a
performance concern with the vehicle's brake system. In normal
operation, automotive brake systems may emit occasional or
intermittent squeal or groan noises when the brakes are applied.
Such noises are usually heard during the first few brake
applications in the morning; however they may be heard at any
time while braking and can be aggravated by environmental
conditions such as cold, heat, moisture, road dust, salt or mud. If
a ``metal-to-metal'', ``continuous grinding'' or ``continuous
squeal'' sound is present while braking, the brake linings may be
worn-out and should be inspected by a qualified service
technician.
Front Disc Brakes
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.
Rear Drum Brakes
The rear drum brakes are self-adjusting. Automatic adjustment
occurs through normal use of the brakes.
Four-Wheel Anti-lock Brakes (If Equipped)
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.
Driving
215

During ABS activation, a mechanical noise may be heard as the
ABS cycles. This is normal ABS operation.
Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
On vehicles equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), a
noise from the hydraulic pump motor and pulsation in the
pedal may be observed during ABS braking events. Pedal pulsation
coupled with noise while braking under panic conditions or on
loose gravel, bumps, wet or snowy roads is normal and indicates
proper functioning of the vehicle's anti-lock brake system. If
the vehicle has continuous vibration or shudder while braking,
felt mainly in the steering wheel, the vehicle most likely needs
service.
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.
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.
WARNING
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.
216

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.
Ford Motor Company has not found any negative effects of
mobile radio transmitting equipment installed on vehicles with
the ABS 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.
If Brakes Do Not Grip Well or Pedal is ``Low''
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.
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.
WARNING
Modifications to the suspension spring rates and/or
vehicle ride height may adversely affect vehicle stopping
ability.
Driving
217

Stopping Distances
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.
Applying the Brakes
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.
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.
WARNING
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.
Using the Parking Brake
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.
218

Shift-lock Safety Feature
Your vehicle has a special shift-lock safety feature which prevents
you from shifting out of P (Park) without the brake pedal
depressed. To shift the transaxle out of the P (Park) position, the
ignition must be in the ON position and your foot must be
pressing on the brake pedal.
If the shift lever cannot be moved from the P (Park) position with
the brake pedal depressed:
1. Shut the engine off and remove the ignition key.
2. Apply the parking brake.
3. Reinsert the ignition key and turn it to the first position (OFF).
4. Depress the brake pedal, move the gearshift lever to N
(Neutral) and start the engine.
If you need to shift out of P (Park) by using the alternate
procedure described above, it is possible that a fuse has blown
and that your brakelamps may also not be functional. Please refer
to the chapter titledRoadside Emergenciesin this Owner Guide
for instructions on checking and replacing fuses.
WARNING
DO NOT DRIVE YOUR VEHICLE UNTIL YOU VERIFY
THAT THE BRAKELAMPS ARE WORKING.
Backing Up
Before shifting into or out of R (Reverse), you should always
come to a complete stop.
222

N (Neutral)
In N (Neutral), the transaxle is not locked. Your vehicle will roll
freely, even on the slightest incline, unless the parking brake
or brakes are on.
Parking
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.
The gearshift is securely latched in Park (P) if you cannot rotate
it in a clockwise direction without lifting it toward you.
WARNING
Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the
gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn off the ignition
whenever you leave your vehicle.
WARNING
Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running.
Forced Downshifts
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.
Driving
225

Engine Compartment Main Fuse Panel
Engine fuse block location
Engine compartment main fuse panel
250