User manual MERCURY COUGAR 1999

[. . . ] Contents Before driving Introduction Instrumentation Controls and features Seating and safety restraints Starting and driving Starting Driving Roadside emergencies Servicing Maintenance and care Capacities and specifications Customer assistance Reporting safety defects (U. Reproduction by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system or translation in whole or part is not permitted without written authorization from Ford Motor Company. Copyright E 1999 Ford Motor Company 2 4 20 89 120 127 150 171 230 236 248 249 Introduction ICONS Indicates a safety alert. Indicates that vehicle information related to recycling and other environmental concerns will follow. [. . . ] Using the heater for more than three hours will not harm the engine, so the heater can be plugged in the night before starting the vehicle. To prevent electrical shock, do not use your heater with ungrounded electrical systems or two pronged (cheater) adapters. 126 Driving BRAKES Your brakes are self adjusting. Refer to the Scheduled Maintenance Guide" for maintenance intervals. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) (if equipped) 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, 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. 127 Driving Operation of the anti-lock braking system The ABS operates by detecting the onset of wheel lock up during brake applications and compensating for this tendency. The wheels are prevented from locking even when the brakes are firmly applied. Two important rules when braking in emergencies with ABS: Braking with ABS · In an emergency, apply full force on the brake. The ABS will be activated immediately, allowing you to retain full steering control of your vehicle and, providing there is sufficient space, will help you to avoid obstacles and bring the vehicle to a stop. · We recommend that you familiarize yourself with this braking technique. However, avoid taking any unnecessary risks. 1. Apply full force on both brake and clutch pedals (if equipped). 2. Steer around the obstacle. 128 Driving Parking brake To engage the parking brake: Pull the handle upward. Always set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park) (automatic transaxle) or in 1 (first) (manual transaxle). To prevent personal injury, do not release the parking brake while outside the vehicle. 129 Driving TRACTION CONTROL This system prevents wheel spin at all speeds. The control will toggle this function on and off, but the feature defaults to on after each cycle of the ignition key. The traction control system controls excessive wheel spin by automatically applying and releasing the brakes in conjunction with engine torque reductions. This can occur when accelerating on a slippery road, a loose surface or when pulling away on a hill. The traction control lamp flashes when the system is functioning to regulate tire traction. You should not take unnecessary driving risks because of the system's safety potential. Switching off traction control If you become stuck in snow or on a slippery road surface, try switching off the traction control system by pressing the switch. This may allow the excess wheel spin to dig" the vehicle out or enable a successful rocking" maneuver. do not rock the vehicle for more than a few minutes, because it could damage the vehicle the vehicle. [. . . ] If the dealership employees cannot help you, they can direct you to the nearest Ford affiliate office. If you buy your vehicle in North America and then relocate outside of the U. S. or Canada, register your vehicle identification number (VIN) and new address with Ford Motor Company Worldwide Direct Market Operations. 243 Customer assistance FORD ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR VEHICLE Ford has many quality products available from your dealer to clean your vehicle and protect its finishes. For best results, use the following or products of equivalent quality Ford Custom Clearcoat Polish* Ford Custom Silicone Gloss Polish Ford Custom Vinyl Protectant* Ford Deluxe Leather and Vinyl Cleaner Ford Extra Strength Tar and Road Oil Remover* Ford Extra Strength Upholstery Cleaner Ford Metal Surface Cleaner Ford Multi Purpose Cleaner* Motorcraft Car Wash Concentrate Motorcraft Carlite Glass Cleaner Ford Spot and Stain Remover* Ford Super Premium Tire and Trim Dressing Ford Triple Clean Ford Ultra Clear Spray Glass Cleaner * May be sold with the Motorcraft name A wide selection of accessories is available through your local authorized Ford, Lincoln Mercury or Ford of Canada dealer. [. . . ]