User manual MERCURY COUGAR 2000

[. . . ] 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. Ford may change the contents without notice and without incurring obligation. Copyright E 1999 Ford Motor Company 2 6 24 98 138 145 169 191 254 260 272 273 Introduction ICONS Indicates a safety alert. [. . . ] · If the driver's safety belt is fastened the safety belt warning light does not illuminate. 142 Starting STARTING THE ENGINE 1. Turn the key to the start position (4) without pressing the accelerator pedal and release as soon as the engine starts. If the engine does not start within five seconds, wait ten seconds and try again. If the engine does not start in two attempts OR the temperature is below -12ºC (10ºF), depress the accelerator pedal and start the engine while holding the accelerator pedal down. Vehicles equipped with the 2. 0 l engine: If the engine fails to start, continue to crank with the accelerator depressed about 1/4 of the way down and hold that position until the engine starts. DO NOT crank for more than 30 seconds or you could damage the starter. After idling for a few seconds, apply the brake and release the parking brake. 143 Starting USING THE ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (IF EQUIPPED) An engine block heater warms the engine coolant, which improves starting, warms up the engine faster and allows the heater defroster system to respond quickly. It is strongly recommended if you live in a region where temperatures reach -23ºC (-10ºF) or below. For best results, plug the heater in at least three hours before starting the vehicle. 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. 144 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. 145 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. 146 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). [. . . ] Telephone: (313) 594 4857 FAX: (313) 390 9804 If you are in another foreign country, contact the nearest Ford dealership. 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. 267 Customer assistance FORD CAR CARE PRODUCTS FOR YOUR VEHICLE Ford has many quality products available from your dealer to clean your vehicle and protect its finishes. [. . . ]