1996 Ford Windstar Owner's Manual
1996 Ford Windstar Manual
1996 Ford Windstar manual content summary:
- 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 1
- 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 2
- 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 3
Lights and Gauges ...65 Instrument Panel Controls ...Steering Column Controls ...Features ...Electronic Sound Systems Driving Your Windstar ...105 129 143 195 235 261 283 290 295 301 371 381 396 Roadside Emergencies ...Customer Assistance ... Reporting Safety Defects Accessories ...Servicing - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 4
Introductory Information Ford's Commitment to You At Ford Motor Company, excellence is the continuous being the standard by which others are judged. Our Guiding Principles s Quality comes first. For your satisfaction, the quality of our products and services must be our number one priority. s You - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 5
describes equipment and gives specifications for equipment that was in effect when this guide was approved for printing. Ford may discontinue models or change specifications or design without any notice and without incurring obligation. NOTES and WARNINGS NOTES give you additional information about - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 6
for keeping your vehicle in good condition. A record log is also provided to help you keep track of all services performed. About the Warranties Your vehicle is covered by three types of warranties: Basic Vehicle Warranty, Extended Warranties on certain parts, and Emissions Warranties. Read your - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 7
details about the Ford Extended Service Plan. If you purchased a Canadian vehicle and did not take advantage of the Ford Extended Service Plan at the time when to stop. - Begin braking well in advance. - Apply the brakes gradually. The break-in period for new brake linings lasts for 100 miles (160 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 8
change or any other time the wheel lug nuts have been loosened. s Use only the type of engine oil that Ford recommends. See Engine oil recommendations in the Index. Do not use special "break-in" oils. Your vehicle is equipped with an Electronic Powertrain Control Module that limits engine the body - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 9
satisfaction is a high priority. For this reason, Ford has authorized its dealers to repair, at no charge to the owner, the surfaces of new vehicles damaged . Use a vinyl cleaner for routine cleaning. Do not clean plastic parts with thinners, solvents or petroleum-based cleaners. If you have your - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 10
See the following sections in this chapter for directions on how to properly use these safety belts. Also see Safety Restraints for Children in this chapter for special instructions about using safety belts for children. RWARNING Make sure that you and your passengers, including pregnant women, wear - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 11
RWARNING Passengers should not be allowed to ride in the cargo area. Persons not riding in a seat with a fastened seat belt are much more likely to suffer serious injury in a collision. Cargo should always be secured to prevent it from shifting and causing damage to the vehicle or harm to passengers - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 12
to lessen the risk of the door coming open in a collision. Combination Lap and Shoulder Belts While your vehicle is in motion, the combination lap and shoulder belt adjusts to your movement. However, if you brake hard, turn hard, or if your vehicle receives an impact of 5 mph (8 km/h) or more - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 13
part of the belt by pulling up on the shoulder belt until the lap belt fits snugly and as low as possible around your hips. Push the release button on the buckle. This allows the tongue to unlatch from the buckle. Unfastening the combination lap and shoulder belts While the belt retracts, guide - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 14
height adjuster Combination Lap and Shoulder Belt - Second Row Bench Seat There is a unique safety restraint system for the outside seating position of the second row bench seat. It is very important that you read and understand this section before anyone rides in the outside seating position (near - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 15
NOTE: When the belt is stowed using the hook, DO NOT use the hanging belt as an assist when entering the vehicle. Proper stowage of second row shoulder safety belt 12 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 16
, allow the retractor to wind up the slack in the belt. 2. Using the clip attached to the end of the shoulder belt, clip the end of the belt to the stationary portion of the shoulder belt (see Figure 2). The end of the shoulder belt must be clipped in order to keep it from striking anything - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 17
Figure 1: Second row bench seat detachable anchor 14 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 18
in the Features chapter of this Owner Guide for information on removing and installing seats. After re-installing the second row bench seat, make sure that the safety belt is not twisted before you insert it into the detachable anchor. A twisted safety belt may cause the retractor to work improperly - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 19
operating mode, the shoulder belt retractor will allow the occupant freedom of movement, locking tight only on hard braking, hard cornering or impacts and rear window seats where dual locking retractors are provided. To switch the retractor from the emergency locking mode to the automatic locking - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 20
is unbuckled and allowed to retract completely, the retractor will switch back to the vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking mode. See detailed instructions under Safety Seats for Children later in this chapter. Lap Belts The lap belt in the center of the rear seat does not adjust automatically. You - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 21
Safety Belt Maintenance Check the safety belt systems periodically to make sure that they work properly and are not damaged. All safety belt assemblies, including retractors, buckles, front seat belt buckle support assemblies (slide bar) (if so equipped), child safety seat tether bracket assemblies - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 22
designed to supplement the protection provided to properly belted occupants in moderate to severe frontal collisions. The supplemental air bag system does not provide restraint to the lower body. The Importance of Wearing Safety Belts RWARNING Safety belts must be worn by all vehicle occupants to - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 23
, the air bag must inflate with considerable force. If you are not seated in a normal riding position with your back against the seatback, the air bag may the seat to the most rearward position if possible and use the safety belts. Children weighing less than 40 lbs. (18 kg) always should use child - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 24
part of the Owner Guide, especially sections entitled Safety Belts for Children and Safety Seats for Children. How the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System Operates The Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System consists of the driver and passenger air bags, impact sensors, a system diagnostic module - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 25
RWARNING Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System or its fuses. See your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. If a collision occurs, the sensors sense the severity of the impact and activates the air bags if necessary. The air bag system is designed to deploy - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 26
Safety Restraints Inflated driver-side air bag 23 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 27
ensure that the air bag system will operate as intended in a crash, the system is equipped with a diagnostic module, which controls a readiness lamp and a warning tone. The diagnostic module monitors its own circuits, the air bag electrical system, the air bag readiness light, the air bag power, and - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 28
periodically until the problem and light are repaired. If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the air bag system serviced at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer immediately. Disposal of supplemental air bag equipped vehicles For disposal of air bags or air bag equipped vehicles - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 29
not riding in a seat with a fastened seat belt are much more likely to suffer serious injury in a collision. Cargo should always be secured to prevent it from shifting and causing damage to the vehicle or harm to passengers. RWARNING Carefully follow all of the manufacturer's instructions included - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 30
9 kilograms (20 pounds), always use a rear facing infant or convertible seat because a child of that size is not sufficiently developed to withstand crash forces in a front facing position. Follow the specific manufacturer's instructions for weight and height restrictions. RWARNING Always latch the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 31
Safety belts and seats can become hot in a vehicle that has been closed up in sunny weather; they could burn a small child. Check seat covers and buckles before you place a child anywhere near them. RWARNING Failure to follow all of the instructions on the use of this child restraint system can - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 32
using the seat. RWARNING Never use the Built-In Child Seat as a booster cushion with the adult safety belts. A child using the adult belts could slide forward and out from under the safety belts. 1. Push the headrest release lever and grasp the headrest as shown in Figure 1. Then release the lever - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 33
position as the seat cushion is lowered. 3. Read the information and warnings on the child seat cushion protector flap and shoulder safety belt. Refer to Figure 3. Check the child's size, weight and age to be sure the child is not too small or too large for the child seat. Then fold the flap - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 34
Safety Restraints Figure 3: Child seat information and warnings 4. If connected, squeeze the top and the bottom of the right half of the chest clip and pull to separate both halves. 31 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 35
NOTE: Read the following steps carefully to become familiar with the indicator windows located on each safety belt tongue and the chest clip. When either of the tongues or the chest clip is unbuckled, the color red appears in the window. When the tongues or chest clip are securely buckled, the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 36
Safety Restraints 6. Insert either the left or right safety belt tongue into the single opening of the crotch safety belt buckle as shown in Figure 5. (It does not matter which tongue is inserted first.) Then insert the other tongue. The color green must appear in the indicator window on each - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 37
. The color green must appear in the indicator window when fastened. (The purpose of this clip is to position the shoulder belts correctly on the child's shoulders.) Refer to Figure 6. RWARNING If both tongues do not latch in the buckle, do not use the child seat. See your dealer for repairs. 34 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 38
Safety Restraints Figure 6: Securing the chest clip 35 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 39
Checking for securely latched buckle and chest clip 9. Pull left shoulder belt fully out to put the retractor into the lock mode. Allow belts to hold a sleeping child in position. The belts will lock automatically during a collision or hard braking. To remove the child from the built-in child - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 40
after any collision. If the child seat was in use during a collision, Ford recommends replacing it. However, if the collision was minor and a qualified tehcnician finds that the webbing or damage the plastic parts. For your convenience, the liner is made to be machine washable and air dried. 37 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 41
belts system of your child seat. See your Ford Dealer if the shoulder belt webbing is frayed, or if the buckle and tongue are damaged and/or do not function properly. Safety Belts for Children Children who are too large for child safety seats should always wear safety belts. (See instructions - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 42
size and weight of the child. Always follow the safety seat manufacturer's instructions when installing and using the safety seat. Ford be sure to use the correct safety belt buckle for that seating position, and equipped with a right front passenger air bag. Air bags deploy with great force, faster - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 43
INFANT SEATS IN THE FRONT SEAT. THE FORCE OF THE RAPIDLY INFLATING PASSENGER AIR BAG COULD PUSH THE TOP OF THE REAR-FACING SEAT AGAINST THE VEHICLE SEAT. All child restraint systems are designed to be secured in vehicle seats by lap belts or by the lap portion of a lap-shoulder belt. RWARNING If you - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 44
Front Seat and Rear Window Passenger Seating Positions Your vehicle is equipped with a dual locking mode retractor on the shoulder belt portion of the combination lap/shoulder safety belt for the front seat passenger and for the rear window passengers. If you choose to install a forward-facing child - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 45
For seating positions equipped with a dual-locking mode retractor, use the following procedure: 1. Position the child seat in the center of passenger seat. 2. Pull down on shoulder belt, then grasp shoulder belt and lap belt together. Figure 1. 42 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 46
Safety Restraints 3. While holding the shoulder and lap belt portions together, route the tongue through the child seat according to the child seat manufacturer's instructions. See Figure 2. Be sure that the belt webbing is not twisted. Routing the lap/shoulder belt 43 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 47
. See Figure 3. Make sure the tongue is latched securely to buckle by pulling on the tongue. Buckling the belt 5. Grasp the shoulder portion of the belt and pull downward until all of the belt is extracted and a click is heard. At this time, the retractor is in the automatic locking mode (child - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 48
Safety Restraints Setting the retractor to automatic locking mode 6. Allow the belt to retract. A clicking sound will be heard as the belt retracts. This indicates the retractor is in the automatic locking mode. Pull on the lap belt portion across the child seat towards the buckle and continue to - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 49
46 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 50
Safety Restraints 47 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 51
directions to make sure that the seat is securely held in place. See Figure 7. Checking that the seat is secure 8. Double check the retractor is in the automatic locking mode. Try to pull more belt out of the retractor. If you cannot, the belt is in the automatic locking mode. See Figure 8. 48 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 52
9. Check to make sure that the seat is properly secured prior to each use. If the retractor is not locked, repeat steps 6 through 8. NOTE: To remove retractor from the automatic lock mode, allow seat belt to retract fully to its stowed position and the retractor will automatically switch back - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 53
Route the tongue and webbing through the child seat according to the child seat manufacturer's instructions. 4. Insert the belt tongue to an anchoring point. Other manufacturers offer the tether strap as an accessory. Contact the manufacturer of your child safety seat for information about ordering - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 54
Safety Restraints Three tether strap anchor locations have been provided in your vehicle. They are as follows: Tether strap anchor locations s FRONT PASSENGER SEATING POSITION - You must use the tether strap anchor location provided on the back of the seat cushion frame. (Refer to Figure 1.) 51 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 55
Figure 1: Tether anchor location - Front passenger seat s SECOND ROW BENCH (if equipped) SEATING POSITION - You must use one of the two tether strap anchor locations (one each side) provided on the back of the seat cushion. (Refer to Figures 2 and 3.) Figure 2: Tether anchor location - second row - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 56
Safety Restraints Figure 3: Tether anchor location - second row bench seat (without built-in child safety seat) s SECOND ROW BUCKET (if equipped) SEATING POSITION - You must use the tether strap anchor location provided on the back of the seat cushion. (Refer to Figure 4.) 53 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 57
the seat before you place the child in it. Tilt the seat from side to side. Also try to tug the seat forward. Check to see if the belt holds the seat in place. RWARNING If the safety seat is not anchored properly, the risk of a child being injured in a collision or - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 58
wheel and the gearshift lever. OFF allows you to shut off the engine and all accessories without locking the steering wheel, or the gearshift lever. ON allows you to test your vehicle's warning lights to make sure they work before you start the engine. The key returns to the ON position once the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 59
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 vehicle, place the gearshift lever in Park (P). Set the parking brake fully, and shut off the engine. Never park your vehicle in Neutral (N). If you do - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 60
start the engine. See Guarding Against Exhaust Fumes in this chapter for more instructions. Before you start your vehicle, always: 1. Make sure you and all your passengers buckle your safety belts. See Safety belts in the Index for more details. 2. Make sure the headlamps and other accessories are - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 61
Start Your Vehicle and under Testing the Warning Lights in this section. 2. Keep your foot on the brake pedal and turn the ignition key to ON. 3. DO NOT depress the accelerator pedal when starting your engine. DO NOT use the accelerator until after the engine is running and you are ready to drive - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 62
been triggered. For directions on how to reset the switch see Fuel Pump Shut-Off Switch later in this chapter. A computer system controls the engine's idle rpm. When you start your vehicle, the engine's idling rpm normally runs high. These faster engine speeds will make your vehicle move slightly - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 63
which improves starting, warms up the engine faster, and allows the heater-defrost system to respond more quickly. RWARNING 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 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 64
access cover under the jack in the cargo compartment. Fuel pump shut-off switch reset button location 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. 61 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 65
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. 4. Turn the ignition key to the ON position for a few seconds, then turn it to the OFF position. 5. Check under the vehicle again for leaking fuel. If - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 66
Windstar Have the exhaust and body ventilation systems checked by a qualified technician whenever: s your vehicle is raised for service s the sound of the exhaust system changes s your vehicle has been damaged in an accident If the exhaust system has any indications of leaks it should be repaired - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 67
parts of the instrument panel that are described in this chapter. Some items shown may not be on all vehicles. Your vehicle has one of the following clusters: s Mechanical Cluster s Mechanical Cluster with a tachometer s Electronic Cluster If you are not sure which cluster your vehicle has, check - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 68
Mechanical Cluster 66 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 69
Warning Lights and Gauges The mechanical cluster with tachometer 67 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 70
low, the brake system should be checked by a qualified service technician. The brake system light The BRAKE light normally comes on when you turn the ignition key to the ON or START position to verify that the indicator bulb is working. If the light stays on or comes on when the engine is running - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 71
, have the braking system checked by a qualified service technician as soon as possible. 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. Safety Belt Warning Light and Chime This - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 72
control system during normal operation. If an emission problem is detected, the Check Engine Warning Light (in the cluster) is turned on. The check engine warning light Modification or additions to the vehicle may cause incorrect operation of the OBD II system. Additions such as burglar alarms - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 73
corrected itself. An example of a condition which corrects itself occurs when an engine running out of fuel begins to misfire. In this case, the Check Engine Warning Light may turn on and will then set a Diagnostic Trouble Code indicating that the engine was misfiring while the last of the fuel - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 74
start up, the Check Engine Warning Light should turn off. If the light does not go off after the fourth engine re-start, have your vehicle serviced by your dealer or a qualified technician. Charging System Light This light indicates that your battery is not being charged. The light comes on briefly - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 75
. If you do not stop the engine as soon as safely possible, severe engine damage could result. 3. Check the engine's oil level. (See "Checking and Adding Engine Oil" in the Servicing Your Vehicle chapter of this Owner Guide.) If you do not follow these instructions, you or others could be injured - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 76
illuminates, safely stop the vehicle and check and close all doors until the light turns off. The door ajar warning light Air Bag Readiness Light This light indicates that the Air Bag system is not functional and needs to be serviced. The light illuminates for approximately six seconds when the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 77
"Turn Signals" in the Steering Column Controls chapter of this Owner Guide. The turn signal indicator lights If one or both of your turn signal indicators does not light up or remains on continuously when you signal a turn, have the turn signaling system serviced as soon as possible. High Beam - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 78
60 seconds. If the washer fluid is not low, the light should turn off a few seconds after the engine has started. The light and chime also come on if the washer fluid is low when you use your windshield washers. The washer fluid is only checked when the engine is started or the windshield washers - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 79
Warning Lights and Gauges Gauges Fuel Gauge The fuel gauge displays approximately how much fuel is in the fuel tank only when the ignition is ON. For - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 80
coolant temperature and fuel gauge Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge This gauge indicates the temperature of the engine coolant, not the coolant level. If the coolant is not at its proper level or mixture, the gauge indication will not be accurate. Engine coolant temperature gauge - base cluster - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 81
level following the instructions on checking and adding coolant to your engine in this Owner Guide. See engine coolant in the index. If you do not follow these instructions, you or others could be injured. If the coolant continues to overheat, have the coolant system serviced. Speedometer The - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 82
the engine is running. Some vehicles are equipped with an engine speed (RPM) limiting device that is contained within the Electronic Engine Control Module. The purpose of this device is to maintain peak engine speed (RPM) below a specified limit. (Engine speed limits may vary based on engine size - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 83
Warning Lights and Gauges If you are experiencing an "engine cut-out" condition at high speeds, it may be the result of this limiting device. It is a normal condition and can be avoided by reducing vehicle/engine speed. The tachometer 81 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 84
The electronic cluster 82 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 85
Gauges s The Fuel Computer Warning and Indicator Lights Safety Belt Warning Light and Chime This warning light and chime remind you to fasten your safety belt. The following conditions will take place: s If the driver does not fasten the safety belt before the ignition is turned to ON, the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 86
low, the brake system should be checked by a qualified service technician. The brake system light The BRAKE light normally comes on when you turn the ignition key to the ON or START position to verify that the indicator bulb is working. If the light stays on or comes on when the engine is running - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 87
bulb is working. If the light fails to illuminate, flashes continuously, or remains on, have the air bag system serviced as soon as possible. The air bag readiness light Charging System Light This light indicates that your battery is not being charged. The light comes on briefly during the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 88
control system during normal operation. If an emission problem is detected, the Check Engine Warning Light (in the cluster) is turned on. The check engine warning light Modification or additions to the vehicle may cause incorrect operation of the OBD II system. Additions such as burglar alarms - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 89
corrected itself. An example of a condition which corrects itself occurs when an engine running out of fuel begins to misfire. In this case, the Check Engine Warning Light may turn on and will then set a Diagnostic Trouble Code indicating that the engine was misfiring while the last of the fuel - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 90
for a long time, have your vehicle's electrical system checked immediately. The anti-lock brake warning light 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. NOTE: If - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 91
. If you do not stop the engine as soon as safely possible, severe engine damage could result. 3. Check the engine's oil level. (See "Checking and Adding Engine Oil" in the Servicing Your Vehicle chapter of this Owner Guide.) If you do not follow these instructions, you or others could be injured - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 92
Light If the ignition switch is in the ON position and any door or the liftgate is not completely closed, the light will illuminate. If the light illuminates, safely stop the vehicle and check and close all doors until the light turns off. The door ajar warning light High Beam Light This light - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 93
indicator light Speed Control Indicator A SPEED CONTROL light is displayed in the optional electronic instrument cluster when the speed control system is engaged. The display will turn off when the brake pedal is pressed or if speed control is shut off. This display does not indicate any problems - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 94
See "Turn Signals" in the Steering Column Controls chapter of this Owner Guide. The turn signal indicator lights If one or both of your turn signal indicators does not light up or remains on continuously when you signal a turn, have the turn signaling system serviced as soon as possible. 92 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 95
when you turn on the hazard flashers. If your ignition is ON, the turn signal indicator lights in the electronic cluster will flash in time with the hazard flashers. Electronic Gauges Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge Engine coolant temperature gauge This gauge indicates the temperature of the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 96
level following the instructions on checking and adding coolant to your engine in this Owner Guide. See engine coolant in the index. If you do not follow these instructions, you or others could be injured. If the coolant continues to overheat, have the coolant system serviced. If the temperature - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 97
you a visual indication of how fast your speed is changing when you accelerate or decelerate. Your vehicle may not actually be able to travel at the maximum speeds indicated by the speedometer due to a speed limiter in the Electronic Engine Control module. The purpose of the limiter is to maintain - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 98
to switch between miles and kilometers. If the electronic cluster is replaced and the mileage on the old odometer is unknown, the replacement cluster actual mileage can be verified, an authorized service center can program the correct mileage into the replacement cluster, and the circled "S" will not - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 99
Warning Lights and Gauges Tachometer The electronic bar graph tachometer in the right center of the cluster displays the approximate engine speed in revolutions per minute (RPM). Each bar on the display represents 200 RPM. The tachometer Fuel Computer The Electronic Cluster Fuel Computer display - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 100
Fuel Computer Buttons The fuel computer functions are controlled by the three buttons located to the right of in the chosen units until you switch them again, even after you turn off the vehicle and restart it. RESET - The RESET button lets you reset or initialize the fuel computer function that - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 101
Lights you do not reset your trip distance, the display will roll over to zero when it passes 1999 miles or kilometers. If you switch from miles to . Your instantaneous fuel economy changes with your driving conditions. Factors affecting fuel economy include braking, acceleration, and road terrain - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 102
traveled and the fuel used (as reported by the Electronic Engine Control module). Press the RESET button when AVERAGE ECONOMY is selected to reset the average fuel economy. You may want to use this feature to see how your fuel economy changes each day or for each tank of fuel. If you calculate - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 103
Warning Lights and Gauges Your distance to empty may change faster or slower than actual distance traveled because your fuel economy varies with changing driving conditions. The fuel computer will automatically warn you when your distance to empty is low. When your distance to empty reaches 50 miles - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 104
below. The auxiliary warning module Traction Control Active Light This light comes on when the Traction Control system begins applying and releasing the brakes and adjusting the engine characteristics to limit a wheelspin condition. You may feel some steering changes and hear some noise - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 105
. Check Traction Assist Light This light comes on when the Traction Control system is not operating. In some conditions, you may want to turn Traction Control off, such as when rocking your vehicle out of deep snow or mud. Traction Control will automatically turn off to prevent the brakes from - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 106
Anti-Theft System. See "Anti-Theft System" in the Features chapter of this Owner Guide. The anti-theft active indicator light Air Suspension Warning Light The air suspension warning light The warning light for the Air Suspension indicates one of two things: 1. The service switch (located - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 107
Instrument Panel Controls The instrument panel 105 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 108
several different sections. Illustrations are provided for the major parts of the instrument panel that are explained in this chapter. Some items shown may not be on all vehicles. The controls for the climate control systems, headlamps, dim switch, rear window defogger, fog lamps, power rear quarter - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 109
Instrument Panel Controls Instrument Panel Registers There are four registers in the instrument panel. Each of these registers contain a louver assembly which can be manually adjusted to direct airflow UP, , defroster, and floor outlet locations follows. The climate control air outlet locations 107 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 110
Air Conditioning (A/C) Controls - Main (Front) System Only (Manual Air Conditioning) The climate controls - main A/C The Fan Speed Knob controls the volume of air circulated in the vehicle. There are four fan settings: Low, Medium Low, Medium High, and High. NOTE: The fan will not operate when the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 111
as necessary to receive cool (air-conditioned) or warm (heated) air when in these modes. NOTE: The A/C compressor will only operate when outside air temperatures are above approximately 45˚F (7˚C). The climate control system provides fresh outside air in all function control settings except for MAX - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 112
amount to the side windows. NOTE: If outside air temperatures are above approximately 45˚F (7˚C), the P (DEFROST/FLOOR) and V (DEFROST) positions will also automatically engage the air-conditioning compressor in order to reduce the humidity in the air and aid in clearing the inside glass. Adjust - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 113
Climate control panel - Heater-Only System Turning On the Heat Heat will not be available until the engine has been running for sufficient time as indicated by the engine coolant temperature gauge. To heat the inside of your vehicle: 1. Turn the Function Selector Knob to R (FLOOR). Outside air is - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 114
intake. Heating and Air Conditioning System Turning On the Heat You can heat the inside of your vehicle and defrost the windshield using the Function Selector Knob located in the control assembly in the instrument panel. The seven function selector modes are: MAX A/C, AC, Q (PANEL), S (PANEL/FLOOR - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 115
; the air conditioning compressor will automatically engage when the P (DEFROST/FLOOR) or V (DEFROST) position is selected to aid in defogging and defrosting the inside glass when the outside temperature is above approximately 45˚F (7˚C). Refer to the heating system operating instructions covered - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 116
Air Conditioner To cool your vehicle quickly in warm weather: 1. Turn the Function Selector Knob to MAX A/C. 2. Turn the Temperature Control Knob to COOL. 3. Turn the Fan Speed Knob to the position of your choice. 4. If your vehicle is equipped with the rear passenger compartment air conditioning - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 117
this by switching the Function Control Knob to MAX A/C. Improving fuel economy Whenever you turn on the air conditioning, your vehicle uses more fuel because the air conditioning compressor is running. To get better fuel economy while cooling your vehicle, do not use the air conditioner on mild - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 118
is set in OFF, the fan in the rear seat climate control system will also be off. If the knob is set in any of the fan speed positions (Medium Low, Medium High, or High), air will be discharged from the rear seat vents at the corresponding speed. However, when the knob is - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 119
of the airflow from the auxiliary climate control system. Rear passengers can adjust the Rear Fan Speed Control Knob and air discharge (adjust registers) for comfort. ignition in the ON position. The control switch is located on the instrument panel to the right of the steering column and below - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 120
automatically after 10 minutes. If the window is not clear, turn the defogger on again. It will automatically shut off anytime the engine is turned off or if the switch is depressed a second time. NOTE: Operating the rear defogger will also turn on the heated side view mirrors (if equipped). Never - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 121
panel to the right of the instrument cluster below the climate control system. The rear wiper and washer controls operate with the ignition in the ACC or ON positions. The rear wiper switches To turn on the rear wiper, press the rear wiper switch. The wiper will operate until it is turned off. To - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 122
the windows; press the raised side of the switch to close the windows. The power quarter window switches Exterior Lamps To turn on the headlamps, parking lamps, marker lamps, license plate lamps, tail lamps and instrument panel lights, use the headlamp control knob, to the left of the instrument - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 123
Instrument Panel Controls The headlamp controls Fog Lamps (If equipped) The fog lamp switch is located on the center of the instrument panel. Fog lamp switch The fog lamps act as a supplement to the low beam headlamps under limited visibility conditions such as rain, snow, dust or fog and - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 124
in the instrument panel. The DRL system operates when all of the following conditions are met: s the vehicle is "running" s the vehicle has a fully released parking brake s the headlamp system is in the OFF position NOTE: You may notice that the lights flicker when the engine is turned on or off - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 125
Instrument Panel Controls RWARNING The Daytime Running Light (DRL) system will not illuminate the tail lamps and parking lamps. Turn on your headlamps at dusk. Failure to do so may result in a collision. Setting the Autolamp Delay System (If equipped) By using the autolamp, you can set the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 126
liking, for the headlamps to turn on for the amount of ambient light. If the driver desires the headlamps to come on earlier when the flashing, indicating that the setting is being changed. The further right the control is moved, the later the headlamps will come on. Pressing the Autolamp switch - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 127
the Instrument Panel The instrument panel lights can be turned on by turning the headlamp control knob to either the first or second position. You can brighten or dim the instrument panel lights by rotating the dim switch up or down to the desired brightness. The dim switch is located to the right - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 128
The dim switch Front Dome Lamp Front dome lamp, rear cargo and second row reading lamp may be turned on and off using the dimmer switch. The front dome lamp is located overhead between the driver and front passenger seats. The front dome lamp and map lamps 126 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 129
Instrument Panel Controls Turning on the map lamps (If equipped) Your vehicle may have a map lamp for the passenger and one for the driver. The map lamps and switches are located on the front dome lamp. The rear cargo lamp is located overhead near the rear seating positions. Second Row Reading Lamp - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 130
detergent diluted in water. Rinse them with clear water. Clock Controls on Electronic Radios The electronic radios have a built-in clock. For complete operating instructions, refer to the Electronic Sound Systems chapter of this Owner Guide. Radio Antenna The fixed radio antenna is mounted on the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 131
are designed to give you easy access to the controls while you are driving. Turn Signal Lever You can use the turn signal lever on the left side of the steering column to: s operate the turn signals. s turn the headlamps to high beam. s flash the headlamps. s turn the windshield wipers and washer - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 132
a lane change to the light in the instrument panel does not illuminate or remains on (does not flash) when you signal a turn, the turn signaling system is malfunctioning. Have this condition corrected as soon as possible, and use the accepted hand signals until the turn signal system is repaired - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 133
varying intervals. For example, you can set the interval so they wipe less often in light rain or more often in heavier rain. The wiper delays range from about 1.5 to 20 seconds. Variable interval wiper control To set the interval wipers, rotate the knob at the end of the turn signal lever - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 134
wipe and a longer push in three wipes and activation of washer fluid. If the windshield wipers are in interval mode a quick tap results in two longer tap in three wipes and washer fluid activation. Do not try to clean the windshield when the washer fluid container is empty and never activate the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 135
Controls RWARNING In freezing weather, the washer solution may freeze on the windshield and obscure your vision. Always warm up the windshield with the defroster before you use the washer fluid the washer fluid or replacing your windshield wiper blades, see Windshield washer fluid and Wipers in - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 136
button is depressed or if the lamp flashes when you are driving, have your vehicle serviced at the first opportunity. If this condition persists, damage could occur to the transaxle. Horn To sound the horn, press the center of the steering wheel. Check the horn regularly to make sure it operates - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 137
is fully charged and in good condition. They will not drain the battery excessively. If the flashers run for longer than two hours or if your battery is not fully charged, your battery may be drained to the point where the vehicle will not start. The hazard flasher switch is located on top of - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 138
To use the hazard flasher: 1. Push the HAZARD switch; you will see the turn signal arrows flash. 2. To stop the hazard flashers, push the HAZARD switch again. Tilt Steering (If equipped) With the tilt steering option, you can move your steering wheel up or down. Tilt steering release lever - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 139
Controls To change vehicle is in motion. Speed Control (If equipped) If your vehicle has speed control, you can automatically maintain a prevent excessive transaxle shifting and helps speed control to maintain speed when going down approved may cause the speed control to malfunction. Therefore, use - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 140
wheel To set the speed control: 1. Find the speed control switches on the steering wheel. 2. Press and release the ON switch. 3. Accelerate to the desired release it immediately. This will set your speed. If you keep this switch pressed, your speed will continue to increase and will not be set at - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 141
lever. The OVERDRIVE OFF lamp will illuminate when you press the switch. You may want to drive in 3 (Third) when driving in hilly terrain, the speed control is on, accelerate using the accelerator pedal. Manually accelerating to a higher speed does not interfere with the speed control. When you - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 142
any of the above methods, then you must manually accelerate to a speed over 30 mph (50 km/h) and reset the system. To reset the speed control to a higher speed, follow one of these procedures: s ACCEL - Press and hold the SET ACCEL switch. Release the switch when the vehicle has accelerated to the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 143
you press the OFF switch. The speed control system will remain off until you press the ON switch and reset the speed control. In addition, the speed control is turned off each time you turn the vehicle off. Resuming a Set Speed If you press the brake pedal, the speed control is cancelled. You can - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 144
. The light will go off when the brakes are used or the speed control system is turned off. This light comes on light will go off when the key is turned to the START position. The light should stay off when the self-test is done. This light does not indicate any problems with the speed control system - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 145
Features Your vehicle is designed with innovative and state-of-the-art features. Understanding how these features work can make driving your vehicle more comfortable. Doors For information on the liftgate refer to the Liftgate section later in this chapter. Sliding Door The sliding door allows - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 146
the handle straight out and sliding the door back. The outside sliding door handle Memory Lock If you lock your doors with the power lock switch or the remote transmitter while the sliding door is open, the door will automatically lock after it is closed. Childproof Lock for the Sliding Door - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 147
Features Childproof lock location To set the childproof lock: 1. Open the sliding door. 2. Find the childproof lock lever below the label. 3. Push the lever to the up position. 145 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 148
control the locks on both front doors, the sliding door and the liftgate. To lock all doors, push the raised side of the switch. To unlock the doors, push the recessed side of the switch. The power door lock switch Door locks can also be operated from the power door lock switch in the cargo area - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 149
the cargo area NOTE: If the sliding door is open when all doors are locked with the power door lock switch, the sliding door automatically locks when it is closed. You can manually lock and unlock the doors using the manual door locks to override the power locks. Using the Keyless Entry System (If - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 150
glove compartment s taped to the computer module When you use the keyless entry system, the illuminated entry system turns on the interior lights for 25 seconds and the buttons on the keypad light up for five seconds. Do not push the keypad buttons with a key, ball-point pen, pencil, or any other - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 151
of the previous digit. 5. The keyless system registers this second code. To open your vehicle, you can now use either code. The module remembers only one personal code at a time. Entering a second personal code will erase the first and replace it with the new code. 6. After you have entered your - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 152
and you have to enter the code again. The system has shut down if the keypad light is out. If the keyless entry system does not work properly, use the key or Remote Entry transmitter(s) to lock and unlock the doors or liftgate until the system can be serviced. 1. To unlock the driver's door, enter - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 153
code. This will also arm your Ford anti-theft system. Battery Saver When the ignition switch is turned to OFF, the vehicle will turn off battery voltage to the interior lamps after 45 minutes. (The exterior lamps are not affected.) The purpose is to minimize extended battery drain if the lights - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 154
five seconds. The doors will lock again and the horn will beep. Activating the remote personal alarm If you wish to activate the remote personal alarm, press the PANIC button. This will honk the horn and flash the tail lamps for approximately two minutes and forty-five seconds. You can turn it OFF - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 155
decrease in operating range, the batteries should be replaced. Replacement batteries can be purchased at most pharmacies, watch stores or at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. NOTE: The operating range of the remote entry system can also be affected by weather conditions (such as very cold - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 156
or when the remote entry system is used to unlock the door or sound the personal alarm. The system will automatically turn off after approximately turned on by the door and or dimmer switch. Autolock The Autolock feature is part of your remote entry system and is enabled at the factory. With the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 157
s the brake pedal is released On vehicles with Keyless Entry, you can deactivate the system by using the buttons for the keyless entry system if you system, simply repeat the instructions for deactivating the system. By re-entering the code that deactivates the Autolock, the keyless entry system - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 158
is armed. NOTE: Be sure to close all doors completely. If not, the alarm indicator light will remain on. Remember, your anti-theft system is armed only after the alarm indicator light remains on steadily for approximately 30 seconds after the last door is closed, and then goes out. You can also - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 159
show the alarm is arming and then turn off to show that it has armed. The anti-theft system is designed to work with the factory installed remote keyless entry system. It may not work with other remote entry systems. Disarming an untriggered anti-theft system You can disarm the system by unlocking - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 160
NOTE: The flashing lights and honking horn will shut off automatically approximately two minutes and 45 seconds after the system is triggered. It will trigger again if another intrusion occurs. However, the starter circuit remains disabled until the system is disarmed. Liftgate Liftgate opening - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 161
cargo from falling out. If you must drive with the liftgate door open, keep the vents open so outside air enough so that you can reach the license plate light shield, push the shield down and forward to power lock switch in the cargo area. The liftgate area is only intended for cargo, not passengers - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 162
and closes the window on that door. The driver's door has master controls that operate both front door windows. You must initially place the ignition switch in the ON or ACC position to use your power window controls. The Accessory Delay function also allows the power windows to be operated for up - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 163
will stop at that position. To open the window only partially, press the lower half of the switch lightly and hold it until the window has opened to the desired position and then release the switch. To close the window you must hold the upper half of the button until the window closes - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 164
inward until you hear a click. Manual flip-open quarter window latch location Power Quarter Windows (If equipped) The power rear quarter vent windows operate with the ignition in the ON or ACC positions. The vent windows are controlled by the right and left switches located in the center of the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 165
Features The power quarter window switches Seats Adjusting the Seats Adjusting the front seats manually To move the front seats forward or backward: 1. Find the adjustment bar at the lower cushion of the front seat. 2. Pull the bar up to - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 166
RWARNING Do not pile cargo higher than the seatbacks to avoid injuring people in a collision or sudden stop. RWARNING To reduce the risk of serious injury in a collision, always drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lap belt snug and low across the hips. RWARNING To reduce the risk of - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 167
Features 165 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 168
2. Push on the seatback to move the seat assembly forward. This provides access to the second row for loading and unloading groceries, briefcases, passengers, etc. through the driver's door. To return the driver seat to its previous position and seat angle: 1. Push the seatback to move the seat - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 169
return to its original position after the seat is safely latched. Your Windstar tip slide seat has been equipped with a lock-out safety feature the seat pedestal latches in the tracks. If the seat has not latched check under the seat and in the rear tracks for possible obstructions. RWARNING DO - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 170
3. Move the seat to the desired position. 4. Release the bar to latch the seat in its new position. Make sure the seat locks securely in place. To recline the seat: 1. Lift the seatback recliner lever located on the side of the driver's seat cushion. 2. While holding the recliner lever up, adjust - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 171
ride with your seatback in an upright position with the lap belt snug and low across the hips. Using the power seats (if equipped) If your vehicle has the power seat option, you can adjust it in several directions. The controls are on the outboard side of the driver's seat. The power controls - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 172
vehicle is equipped with this option, you can inflate a lumbar support pad in the seat back. To inflate the lumbar pad, push the raised side of the rocker switch. To deflate, push the recessed side of the switch. The power lumbar switch on the passenger seat Reclining Bucket Seats Your vehicle is - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 173
Features 3. Lean against the back of the seat and adjust it to the position you want. 4. Release the handle to lock the seatback in position. 5. To return the seatback to upright position, lift the handle and lean forward. Then release the handle. Reclining bucket seat Adjusting the Head - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 174
Bench Seat (If equipped) Your vehicle's third row passenger bench seat may be adjustable forward and backward. This adjustment allows for additional cargo space with the seat adjusted to the full forward position and extra leg room when adjusted rearward. Rotate the release handle upward to unlatch - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 175
Features Seat/Bed Conversion (If equipped) 2nd Row Seat To convert the seat to a bed: 1. Unlatch the seat/bed lever, will move forward when going from the seat to the bed position. 2nd row seat (seat position) To convert the bed to a seat: 1. While in front of the seat, pull the release lever up, - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 176
2. Make sure the safety belts are free and available for use. RWARNING The seat/bed should not be occupied while the vehicle is moving unless it is in the upright, fully-latched position. 2nd row seat (bed position) 3rd row seat To convert the seat to a bed: 1. From the rear of the vehicle - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 177
Features 3rd row seat (seat position) To convert the bed to a seat: 1. From the rear of the vehicle, pull the release lever down and at the same time lift the seatback up. Raise the seatback to the full upright and locked position. 2. Make sure the safety belts are free and available for use - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 178
3rd row seat (bed position) Removing the Seats Quick release second row bucket seats (If equipped) To remove the second row bucket seats: 1. Lift the seat latch handles (located at the rear of the seat near the floor) up and rearward, causing the latch hooks to disengage from the rear floor - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 179
Ensure that the latch handles are fully seated in the down position. RWARNING Check to see that the seat is latched securely in position. Keep floor bench seat only) Disengage the tongue portion of the lap/shoulder belt from the detachable anchor assembly by inserting a key or small screwdriver - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 180
detachable anchor - detached position 2. Using the clip attached to the end of the shoulder belt, clip the end of the belt to the stationary portion of the shoulder belt (see Figure 2). The end of the shoulder belt must be clipped in order to keep it from striking anything during vehicle operation - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 181
Features Figure 2: Securing the detachable shoulder belt Refer to Figure 3 for steps 3-6. 3. Release the seatback by pulling the lever located at the back of the seat on the right hand side. Fold - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 182
4. Locate the seat latch handles at the rear of the seat near the floor. For the second row bench seat, lift the latch handles up and rearward. For the third row bench seat, just lift the latch handles. The latch hooks will disengage from the rear floor attachments. 5. While still lifting the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 183
(Second row bench seat only) Before you engage the safety belt, be sure it is not twisted. A twisted safety belt may cause the retractor to not work properly. Remove any twist, then insert the tongue end of the safety belt into the detachable anchor until you hear a "snap" and feel - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 184
outboard seating position (nearest the sliding door), the lap/shoulder safety belt must be properly stowed. The second row passenger side outboard seating position uses a hook above the sliding/cargo door to stow the shoulder safety belt when entering or exiting the vehicle or when it is not being - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 185
Features Proper stowage of shoulder safety belt The two passenger bench seat must be installed in the first row behind the front seats. 183 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 186
immediately. Follow the directions that come with the cleaner. NOTE: Before using any cleaner, test it on a small, hidden area of fabric. If the fabric's color or texture is adversely affected by a particular cleaner, do not use it. 184 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 187
Features Storage Compartments Underseat Storage Compartment (If equipped) The underseat storage compartment is located underneath the front passenger seat. It can be opened by pulling up and toward the instrument panel. The underseat storage compartment Compact Disc and Cassette Storage Console ( - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 188
Compact disc/cassette storage Console (If equipped) Your vehicle may have a full console. Console features are detailed in the following illustration. To open the console lid, lift up on the latch toward the rear of the console. If your vehicle has the CD changer (a dealer installed option), this - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 189
Features The full console Cupholders The front seat cupholders are located with the ashtray. To access the cupholders, pull open the ashtray drawer which is located to the right of the steering column, above the compact disc and cassette storage console. As you close the ashtray drawer, the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 190
View Mirrors Close your door and adjust the driver's seat to the most comfortable position before you adjust the side view mirrors. If you have manually adjusting side view mirrors, you can adjust them in any direction by moving the mirror glass. The mirror heads should be folded rearward to prevent - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 191
away than they actually are. Use the inside rearview mirror (or look behind you) to determine the actual size and distance of objects that appear in the convex mirror. Dual Electric Remote Controlled Mirrors (If equipped) If you have power side view mirrors, you can adjust them in any direction by - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 192
. Automatic Dimming Inside Rearview Mirror (If equipped) The automatic non-glare mirror The electronic day/night mirror will change from the normal state to the non-glare state when bright lights (glare) reach the mirror. This mirror functions at night, and has a limited function at dusk or dawn - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 193
. The delay starts when the glare goes away. The delay prevents excessive changing of the mirror as traffic moves behind and around the vehicle, or on rolling hills and curves. The electronic mirror measures the brightness of the light coming in from the rear of the vehicle. It automatically makes - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 194
the third row bench seat and the liftgate to prevent it from moving around the cargo area. To install the cargo net: Attach the loops on the four corners of the net to the four retainers on the cargo area rear quarter panels. Pull on the net to be sure that it is - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 195
Features The rear cargo net Four Season Roof Rack (If equipped) Always load your luggage as far back as it will safely panel slats. Be careful that your vehicle does not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or its Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR front and rear). The GVWR and GAWR are 193 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 196
located on the Safety Compliance Certification Label (located on the driver's door pillar). The four season roof rack The rear cross-bar can your luggage between the luggage with rope rack must be properly be adjusted forward and backward. Place the bars, adjust the rear bar, and secure to the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 197
Electronic Sound Systems The Compact Disc Radio 195 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 198
Ford Compact Disc Player. Using the Controls buttons control several different functions, so be sure to read all of the operating instructions carefully. it was set at when radio power is switched back on. Selecting the AM or FM more than once will alternate between AM, FM1 and FM2. These - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 199
Electronic Sound Systems How to tune radio stations There are four ways for you to tune in a particular station. You can manually locate the button to manually tune You can change the frequency up or down one increment at a time (FM changes in increments of 200kHz; AM changes in increments of - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 200
Memory Store features NOTE: If no stations are in memory presets, you can activate the feature by pressing and holding the "AUTO PRESET" button for approximately three seconds. Auto Memory Load sets all memory buttons in AM, FM1 and FM2 sequentially by seeking out the first five strong stations for - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 201
the manually-set memory button stations (or those stations set using Auto Memory Load), simply push the "AUTO PRESET" button. Display will show "AUTO" then "OFF". The next time Auto Memory Store is activated on that band, the radio will store the next set of five strong stations. Using the "AUDIO - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 202
speaker fader Fade control allows you to adjust the sound distribution between the front and rear speakers. Push the "AUDIO" button repeatedly until When in the radio mode, push the "CLOCK" button to switch from radio frequency to clock. Only the clock numerals will be change back to clock. 200 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 203
Systems When in the CD mode, push the "CLOCK" button to change the display from elapsed time mode to track number mode to clock mode. If the CD track selection is changed or ignition on or off. Using the Controls on Your New Compact Disc Player Your new Ford Compact Disc Player is capable of playing - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 204
, press the "PLAY/STOP" button once again. NOTE: If the ignition key is turned OFF during play and then is set to the ON or ACCESSORY position, the CD player will resume playing in the mode it was in when ignition was turned off. 202 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 205
Electronic Sound Systems How to fast forward or reverse your CD player To quickly search for a particular point in a selection, press the "FF" button (to fast forward) or - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 206
to stop play, eject the disc and resume radio operation of your audio system. NOTE: You can eject the disc while the radio power and/or Your CD Player and Discs To ensure the continued performance of your Ford Compact Disc Player, carefully read the following precautions: s Always handle the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 207
Electronic Sound Systems s Do not clean discs with solvents such eyes. Do not attempt to disassemble the case. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only. Common Operating Conditions of Your CD Player The following information is designed to and may not play on your Ford Compact Disc Player. 205 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 208
on the lenses within the unit. If this occurs, remove the disc and wait approximately an hour until the moisture evaporates. If the sound skips: s Badly scratched discs or extremely rough roads will cause the sound to skip. Skipping will not damage the disc player or scratch the discs. 206 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 209
Electronic Sound Systems High-Level Audio System 207 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 210
Audio System Ford's High-Level Audio System delivers quality performance for maximum listening enjoyment. Using the Controls position it was set at when radio power is switched back on. Selecting the AM or FM frequency button more than once will alternate between AM, FM1 and FM2. These functions - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 211
Electronic Sound Systems How to tune radio stations There are four ways for you to tune in a particular station. You can manually locate the "SEEK" button. To change frequencies quickly, press and hold down either the right or left side of the "SEEK" button. Manual tuning adjusts your radio to - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 212
s Using the "SCAN" function Pressing the "SCAN/TUNE" button once enters the scan mode (display will indicate "SCN"). Pushing the right (a) side of the "SEEK" button will begin the scan mode up the frequency band, stopping on each listenable station for approximately a five-second sampling. Pushing - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 213
Systems s Using the Automatic Memory Load feature NOTE: If no stations are in memory presets, you can activate the feature by pressing and holding the "AUTO PRESET" button for approximately three seconds. Auto manually tune to existing stations. Activate Auto Memory Store by pushing the "AUTO PRESET - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 214
manually-set memory button stations (or those stations set using Auto Memory Load), simply push the "AUTO PRESET" button. Display will show "AUTO" then "OFF". The next time Auto fader Fade control allows you to adjust the sound distribution between the front and rear speakers. Push the "AUDIO" button - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 215
playing until fast forward is manually stopped. At the end of the tape, the direction automatically reverses and plays the other side of the tape. s Rewinding the tape To rewind the tape, press the "REW" button. s How to change the track of the tape being played The alternate track of the tape can - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 216
NOTE: If you want to restart a currently playing tape selection, press the left (b) side of the "SEEK" button after three seconds into the current selection. Whirling sprockets in the display (l) indicate the direction of tape travel. s Using the "SCAN" function with your cassette tape player Press - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 217
Sound Systems Using the meant to, read and follow these simple precautions: s Using a Ford Cassette Cleaning Cartridge to clean the tape player head after 10-12 and extreme heat or cold. If they are exposed to extreme conditions, allow them to reach a moderate temperature before playing. s - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 218
the pause mode. Push "EJCT" to eject the tape. If the tape doesn't eject, refer the problem to qualified personnel for service. Clock Operation How to view the clock mode Press the "CLOCK" button to alternate the frequency and time in the display. In the clock mode, pressing any radio function will - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 219
and Tapes" later in this chapter. The Ford 10-CD Changer System The Ford 10-CD Changer is mounted in your center floor console and holds 10 CDs, all controlled by using the buttons on your High-Level Audio System. Center Floor Console Loading Instructions 1. Open Compact Disc Changer center floor - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 220
3. Load discs into disc magazine slots (numbered 1 through 10) one at a time with labeled surfaces upward, starting with bottom slot number 1 (Figure 3). 4. Insert loaded disc magazine into chamber unit with the arrow on top of the disc magazine pointing toward the changer (Figure 4). Make sure - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 221
using the controls of your High-Level Audio System. How to Operate the Ford 10-CD Changer Using the Controls on the Radio If your vehicle is equipped with the Ford 10-CD Changer System, you can operate it through the controls of your High-Level Audio System. Several of the controls on the radio - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 222
During these functions, the display will indicate the disc number. How to change the track being played Press the right a side of the "SEEK" k button. (While in the CD Changer mode, the Dolby button controls the compression function.) When the compression feature is activated, the display will - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 223
off. How to adjust the volume Press the right (+) side of the "VOLUME" rocker switch to increase volume, and push the left (-) side to decrease the volume of the rear speakers. NOTE: Rear seat control volume can be set no higher than current radio setting unless speakers are turned off. See - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 224
or FM frequency band Push the "BAND" button to change the frequency band. Using the "MEMORY" button Push the SEEK" rocker switch to seek to the previous radio station. NOTE: When using the rear seat controls with a High-Level Audio System, the "SEEK" function on the rear seat controls will also - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 225
Electronic Sound Systems Electronic Stereo Radio 223 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 226
Electronic Stereo Radio with Cassette 224 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 227
Systems Electronic Stereo and Stereo Cassette Radios Using the Controls was set at when radio power is switched back on. Selecting the AM or the button more than once will alternate between AM, FM1 and FM2. These in to a particular station. You can manually locate the station by using the "TUNE" - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 228
a station is present on that frequency. (See All About Radio Frequencies in this section.) s Using the "AMS" function to manually tune your radio (Stereo Cassette Radio) You can change the frequency up or down one increment at a time by first pressing the "AMS" button (display shows "TUNE") then - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 229
Systems display flashes "AM battery is disconnected, the clock and station memory preset buttons (if programmed in auto mode) will need to be reset . Adjusting the tone balance and speaker output of your radio s Increasing or decreasing bass response Push the "AUDIO - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 230
push the left (-) side to shift the sound to the left speakers. s Adjusting speaker fader Fade control allows you to adjust the sound distribution between the front and rear speakers. Push the "AUDIO" button repeatedly until the display reads "FADE." Push the right (+) side of the "VOLUME" button - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 231
Electronic Sound Systems How to locate a desired track on the tape NOTE: The tape track number indicated in the display does not necessarily correspond to the tape track - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 232
fast-wind button momentarily, until rewind stops. s How to change the side of the tape being played The alternate track (other side) of the tape can be selected at the Dolby B noise reduction feature NOTE: Noise reduction system manufactured under license from Dolby Labs Licensing Corporation. " - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 233
Systems Tips on Caring for the Cassette Player and Tapes In order to keep your cassette tape player performing the way it was meant to, read and follow these simple precautions: s Using a Ford are exposed to extreme conditions, allow them to reach "CLOCK" button to alternate the frequency and time - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 234
the hours and right (a) to advance the minutes. NOTE: The clock displays 12-hour time with no AM/PM indications. Common Radio Reception Conditions Several conditions prevent FM reception from being completely clear and noise-free, such as the following: 1. Distance/Strength The strength of the FM - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 235
into this system. This feature automatically switches a weak stereo signal to a clearer monaural signal, which improves the quality of reception. Several sources of static are normal conditions on AM frequencies. These can be caused by power lines, electric fences, traffic lights and thunderstorms - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 236
vehicle warranty booklet for further information. s Service At Ford Electronics, we stand behind our audio systems with a comprehensive service and repair program. If anything should go wrong with your Ford audio system, return to your dealer for service. There is a nationwide network of qualified - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 237
Driving Your Windstar Automatic Transaxle Operation Putting Your Vehicle in Gear Your vehicle's gearshift lever is in any one of several positions. The steering column gearshift RWARNING Hold the brake pedal down while you move the gearshift lever from position to position. If you do not hold the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 238
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 titled Servicing Your Windstar in this Owner Guide for instructions on checking and - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 239
lever will illuminate. With the OVERDRIVE OFF light illuminated, the transaxle will operate in first, second and third gears and will not shift into fourth gear. Operating in Drive (OVERDRIVE OFF light illuminated) provides more engine braking than Overdrive for descending hills or city driving - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 240
flashing on and off repeatedly when the vehicle is started, there is a transaxle electronic system malfunction. Contact your dealer as soon as possible. When to use 2 (Second) Use 2 (Second) when driving on slippery roads or to provide additional engine braking on downgrades. This position provides - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 241
operate your vehicle within reasonable limits. Abrupt changes in acceleration, deceleration, turning, or combinations of these maneuvers can cause your vehicle to behave differently than anticipated, especially when road conditions vary. To turn Traction Control off, press the button located in the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 242
. If the amount of effort needed to steer your vehicle changes at a constant vehicle speed, have the power steering system checked. If the power steering system breaks down (or if the engine is turned off), you can steer the vehicle manually but it takes more effort. NOTE: After any severe impact - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 243
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. The anti-lock brake system light You should always be careful when braking, even if your vehicle has the ABS system. Heavy braking on roads with loose surfaces - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 244
on while driving, have the braking system checked by a qualified service technician as soon as possible. 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 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 245
Driving Your Windstar RWARNING Modifications to the suspension spring rates and/or vehicle ride height may adversely affect vehicle stopping ability. Stopping Distances Stopping distances vary with different loads and driving conditions. Use caution when you drive under new conditions and acquaint - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 246
to the right of the driver's seat. To set the parking brake while parking your vehicle, press the brake pedal with your right foot and hold it while you fully apply the parking brake lever. To release the parking brake, press the brake pedal with your right foot, pull up the lever while depressing - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 247
fully released, but the Brake System light remains on, have the brakes checked immediately. They may not be working properly. The parking brake is not designed to stop a moving vehicle, but you can use the parking brake to stop your vehicle in an emergency if the service brakes fail. However, since - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 248
curve, your vehicle may change its direction of travel. Avoid applying the brakes, if possible. If you must apply the brakes, use the "squeeze" technique described earlier. Wheel Spin Extreme acceleration can cause the front wheels to spin, resulting in reduced steering control. If the wheels spin - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 249
using one of the lower gears. RWARNING To avoid skidding and losing control on slippery roads, do not downshift into 1 (First) when you are moving faster than 20 mph (30 km/h). RWARNING The Anti-Lock Brake System may not prevent brake lock-up on extremely slippery surfaces. High water Do not drive - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 250
, make sure the system has been turned off before attempting to rock the vehicle. See Traction Control Off Light in the Lights and Gauges section of this guide for more information. Do not rock the vehicle for more than a few minutes. This may overheat the engine, damage the transaxle, or damage - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 251
Windstar RWARNING If the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the Safety Compliance Certification Label is exceeded, your vehicle may be damaged or you may lose control trailer puts an additional load on your vehicle's engine, transaxle, axle, brakes, tires and suspension. For your safety and for the good - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 252
space. Maximum safe vehicle weights as well as tire sizes, rim sizes and inflation pressures are specified for your vehicle at the additional item of equipment affects how much cargo a vehicle can carry. If a vehicle is overloaded, performance will suffer and service concerns may arise. NOTE: The - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 253
fully loaded including passengers, cargo and all equipment. Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) We have all seen a car or a truck that is loaded down in the rear and riding high in the front. This is a dangerous condition that usually means that the rear suspension components are under severe strain - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 254
service life or outright failure. The weakest link in the suspension system defines the GAWR, and may be the tires. Tires are rated to carry a specific maximum load at a specific tire pressure. When passenger car tires are installed on light as well as the cargo load. Gross Combined - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 255
Driving Your Windstar Calculating the Payload for Your Vehicle To know how much weight your vehicle can carry: 1. Obtain the GVWR and GAWR from you do not plan to pull a trailer, do not include these ratings into your calculations. 2. Fill the fuel tank. 3. Weigh your vehicle without cargo. 253 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 256
Towing a trailer safely means having the proper weight on the tongue (usually 10-15% of the trailer weight). If your vehicle exceeds the GVWR, remove cargo from your vehicle accordingly. If your vehicle exceeds either GAWR, shift the load or remove - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 257
Windstar RWARNING If the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the Safety Compliance Certification Label is exceeded, your vehicle may be damaged or you may lose control engine damage, transaxle/axle damage, structural damage, loss of control -carrying hitch and hitch ball which uniformly distributes the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 258
Do not connect a trailer's hydraulic brake system directly to your vehicle's brake system. Your vehicle may not have enough braking power and your chances of having a circuit will operate one combination stop/turn light bulb (# 1157, 3157, 2357, or 3357) on the trailer. Never add more - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 259
Driving Your Windstar RWARNING Always replace a fuse with one that has the specified amperage control may shut off automatically. When descending a steep grade with a trailer, operate in Drive rather than Overdrive. If additional braking is needed, shift into 2 (Second) or 1 (First) gear. Servicing - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 260
trailer to guide you. Place brakes should be applied first, whether manually or automatically controlled check of your equipment before starting out on the road. After you have traveled about 50 miles (80 km), stop in a protected area and double-check your hitch and electrical connections. Also check - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 261
the fresh air position to stop the air conditioner compressor. Increase the engine speed for a short time. Vehicles with trailers should not be parked on a grade. However, if you must park on a grade, place wheel chocks under the trailer's wheels as follows: 1. Apply the foot service brake pedal and - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 262
your vehicle after it has been parked on a grade: 1. Apply the foot service brake pedal and hold. 2. Start the engine. 3. Shift the gearshift lever into gear and release the parking brake. 4. Release the foot service brake pedal and move the vehicle uphill to free the wheel chocks. 5. Apply the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 263
can explode if exposed to flames, sparks, or lit cigarettes. An explosion could result in injury or vehicle damage. RWARNING To protect yourself when charging a battery, always shield your face and eyes. Make sure that you can breathe fresh air. RWARNING Applying too much pressure on the ends - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 264
other. Set the parking brake on both vehicles and stay clear of the engine cooling fan. 4. Check the battery terminals and remove any excessive corrosion before you attach the jumper cables. 5. Turn on the heater blower in both vehicles. Turn off all other switches and lights in both vehicles to - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 265
metallic surface in the engine compartment of the vehicle that needs a jump-start. The following illustration shows where you can find a metallic surface. RWARNING Do not connect the end of the second cable to the negative (-) terminal of the battery to be jumped. A spark may cause an explosion - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 266
Jumper Cable Placement (3.8L) 264 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 267
Roadside Emergencies Jumper Cable Placement (3.0L) After you connect the jumper cables to the batteries: 1. Make sure that the jumper cables are not in the way of moving engine parts, then start the vehicle that has the booster battery. Run the engine at a moderate speed. 265 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 268
that needed a jump-start. After your vehicle is started, let it idle for a while to let the engine "relearn" its idle conditions and drive it around for a little while with all electrical accessories turned off, to let the battery recharge. You may need to use a battery charger to fully recharge the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 269
Your vehicle has a temporary spare tire (unless you ordered the optional full-size spare tire). This spare tire is smaller than a regular tire and is designed for emergency use only. Use it only when you get a flat tire and replace it as soon as you can. This spare tire is marked with - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 270
get caught in the rails and it could be damaged. Finding the spare tire The spare tire is stored underneath your vehicle, directly below the cargo area. Removing the spare tire 1. Open the liftgate and find the plastic hex nut cover in the carpeting of the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 271
side panel. 3. Fit the hex-shaped end of the lug wrench over the hex nut in the floor of the cargo area. Turn counterclockwise until the cable extends far enough to lower the spare tire to the ground. The spare tire in the lowered position 4. Continue - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 272
from moving or slipping off the jack, even if the vehicle is in P (Park). RWARNING To prevent the vehicle from moving when you change a tire, be sure the parking brake is set, then block (in both directions) the wheel that is diagonally opposite (other side and end of the vehicle) to the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 273
with Air Suspension, turn OFF the Air Suspension switch prior to jacking, hoisting or towing your vehicle. 2. Get out the spare tire and jack. See previous section for instructions on spare tire removal. The jack is located in the rear storage compartment in the right door panel of the cargo area - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 274
3. Insert the tapered end of the jack handle behind the wheel cover of the tire to be changed and gently pry it off. When you want to replace the wheel cover, simply align the valve stem to the slot in the cover and press it back on. Wheel cover removal If you have the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 275
the ground. If your vehicle has the optional locking lug nuts, you must use the lug nut removal tool provided with your vehicle's tool kit. Anti-theft lug nut 273 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 276
5. Fit the jack under the proper jacking point indicated by the notch in the bottom of the door frame panel. The notches for the jack Jack placement NOTE: If your vehicle is equipped with running boards, refer to the following illustration before jacking. 274 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 277
Roadside Emergencies Jacking information for running boards 275 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 278
part of your body under the vehicle while changing a tire. Do not start the engine when your vehicle is on the jack. The jack is only meant for changing by placing the jack on the torsion bar (within axle) or front or rear suspension components. Serious damage to these components may occur. 6. - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 279
jack handle) clockwise to raise the vehicle off the ground. 8. Remove the wheel lug nuts with the lug nut wrench. 9. Remove the flat tire and replace it with the spare tire. 10. Place the wheel lug nuts on the spare tire. Use the lug nut wrench to screw the lug nuts - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 280
-153 Nm). 13. Replace the wheel cover by pressing it into place. If you have the standard wheel covers, you must align the notch in the wheel cover with the tire's valve stem and align the torque at 500 miles (800 km) of operation, after any wheel change, or any time the lug nuts are loosened. 278 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 281
end of the wheel lug wrench over the hex nut in the floor of the cargo area. Turn the wheel lug wrench clockwise until the tire is raised to its supports and retighten if necessary. RWARNING Check the tire seating position for looseness and make sure the tire is not too far forward to avoid axle - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 282
flow of fuel to the engine when your vehicle has been involved in a collision. The impact does not have to be great for the switch to be actuated. In many instances, you might not even know that the switch has been actuated. For information on how to check and reset the fuel pump shut-off - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 283
a professional towing service or, if you are a member, your roadside assistance center. Recommended towing options include wheel lift towing or flat bed towing. When calling for a tow truck, tell the operator what kind of vehicle you have. A towing manual is available from Ford Motor Company for - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 284
problem with your vehicle. This complimentary service is provided to you throughout your warranty period of 3 years or 36,000 miles (3 years or 60,000 km), whichever comes first. To purchase Roadside Assistance coverages beyond this period, through Ford Auto in the Owner Guide portfolio in your - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 285
If You Have a Service Concern Ford Motor Company has authorized Ford and Lincoln-Mercury dealerships to service your vehicle. This section tells you how to get service or maintenance for your vehicle. Dealership Service and Maintenance Your satisfaction is our #1 goal. If you have questions or - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 286
Customer Assistance In Canada: Outside the U.S. or Canada: To process your request, the Ford Customer Assistance Center needs the following information: s your telephone number(s) (both business and home) s the name of the dealer and the city where the dealership - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 287
may not be available in all states. Ford Motor Company reserves the right to change eligibility limitations, modify procedures and/or to The Board reviews all product performance and service complaints on Ford, Mercury and Lincoln cars and Ford and Mercury light trucks under warranty that have not - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 288
Eligibility may differ according to state law. For example, see the unique brochure for California purchasers/lessees. How Does the Board Work? The Board has four members: s three consumer representatives s a Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer Consumer candidates for Board membership are recruited and - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 289
decision. The decisions of the board are binding on the dealer and Ford, but customers may have other options available to them under state or federal to the Board at the following address to request a brochure/application. You will be sent a brochure and a one-page customer application form. The form - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 290
and the mileage at the time of repair s the current mileage s the name of the dealer who sold you the vehicle or who serviced your vehicle s a brief description of your unresolved complaint s a brief summary of actions that were taken with the dealer and Ford Motor Company s the names (if known - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 291
cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or Ford Motor Company. To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at get unleaded fuel or can get only fuel with an anti-knock index that is lower than your vehicle needs, contact a district or - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 292
the effectiveness of your emissions control system and may cause engine knocking or serious engine damage. Ford Motor Company is not responsible must be serviced while you are traveling or living in Central or South America, the Caribbean, or the Middle East, contact the nearest Ford dealership. If - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 293
of concern arises, where a solution cannot be reached between a vehicle owner, Ford of Canada, and/or one of its dealers (that all parties can agree wish to use the services offered by the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP). CAMVAP uses the services of Provincial Administrators to - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 294
obtain an information booklet from your dealer or contact the Provincial Administrator, Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan, at the address or telephone number shown below. O & P Services 595 Bay Street - Suite 300 Toronto, Ontario M5G 2C2 Telephone 1 (800) 207-0685 293 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 295
Accessories Ford Accessories for Your Windstar Many accessories for your Windstar are available through your local authorized dealer. These accessories available accessories are listed below. Safety, Comfort, and Convenience Comfort and Convenience Engine Block Air Deflector Door Edge Guards 295 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 296
such as AM/FM radios, mobile communication systems (two-way radios, telephones) and radio controlled security systems, are subject to the rules and regulations of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) 47 CFR Parts 2 and 15. Any such system installed in your vehicle should comply with those - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 297
whose power output is 5 watts or less, ordinarily will not affect vehicle operation.) NOTE: Because Ford has no control over the operation or manufacture of such systems or their installation, Ford cannot assume responsibility for any adverse effects or damage if this equipment is used. 297 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 298
298 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 299
Accessories 299 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 300
300 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 301
you about the basic parts that you need to check and service regularly. If you need professional servicing, see the chapter on Customer Assistance in this Owner Guide. Check your Warranty Information Booklet to find out which parts are covered. Precautions When Servicing Your Vehicle Be especially - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 302
cigarettes and other smoking materials away from the battery and all fuel-related parts. Working Under the Hood Before you open the hood, read this section carefully. If you plan to work under the hood while the engine is off: RWARNING Set the parking brake and make sure the gearshift is securely - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 303
Servicing Your Windstar RWARNING Do not start your engine with the air cleaner removed and do not remove it while the engine is running. To open the hood: 1. Pull the hood release lever located below the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel. Hood release - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 304
Propping the hood To close the hood: 1. Remove the prop rod from the slotted hole in the hood. Place the rod in its retaining clip and close the hood with enough force to make it latch. Be sure to oil the hood latch every six months to maintain smooth operation. 2. Try to lift the hood after - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 305
Servicing Your Windstar Engine Compartment Your vehicle has a 3.0 liter SFI, V-6 engine or an optional 3.8 liter SFI, V-6 engine. The following illustrations show diagrams of your engine and where you can find items you should service regularly. 305 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 306
The engine compartment (3.0 liter only) 306 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 307
Servicing Your Windstar The engine compartment (3.8 liter only) 307 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 308
What to Check When You Stop at a Service Station Filling Your Fuel Tank With Fuel 1. Open the then continue rotating counterclockwise to remove the fuel cap. 4. Follow the fuel cap removal instructions and use caution to minimize the possibility of fuel spraying when you unscrew the cap. RWARNING - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 309
it with an authorized Motorcraft or equivalent part. 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. NOTE: If you replace your fuel cap with an aftermarket fuel filler cap, the customer warranty - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 310
be caused by: s too volatile a fuel for the weather conditions. Service stations sometimes sell winter grade fuel in the summer. s pulling a heavy load on hot days, or at high altitudes. s extended periods of idling with the engine RPM increased above the normal idle range. s parking the vehicle - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 311
vehicle sometimes knocks lightly. However, if it knocks heavily under most driving conditions on the recommended octane rating fuel, see your dealer or a qualified service technician to prevent any engine damage. Fuel quality If you are experiencing starting, rough idle, or hesitation problems try - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 312
for clean air Ford approves the and do not smoke while refueling your vehicle. Keep sparks and other sources of ignition away from fuels. Automotive fuels mouth. If any fuel is swallowed, call a physician or poison control center immediately. Do not delay calling a physician merely because no adverse - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 313
Servicing Your Windstar If gasoline is swallowed, do not induce vomiting. If a gasoline-methanol blend is swallowed, induce vomiting under the direction of a physician or poison control inhaled in excessive quantities, move the victim to fresh air and seek medical attention. Fuels can also be harmful - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 314
to START several times before engaging the starter (leaving it in that position several seconds each time) before the fuel system starts to pump fuel from the tank to the engine. Fuel Economy Fuel economy is an estimate of the efficiency of your vehicle and can be calculated as Miles Per Gallon - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 315
stops, starts, and lane changes. Other factors that may affect fuel economy include using the air conditioning, driving speed, vehicle brake. s Watch traffic so that you do not have to stop suddenly. s Do not accelerate suddenly. Drive at a steady speed whenever you can. s Do not let the engine - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 316
inflated. To find out the recommended tire pressure, see Checking the pressure of the tires later in this chapter. s Use your air conditioning system wisely. To find out about fuel economy and air conditioning, see Climate control systems in the Index. In addition to your individual driving habits - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 317
the preferred viscosity may be used in your engine. The engine oil and oil filter must still be changed according to the maintenance schedule. Checking and Adding Engine Oil Since the proper amount of engine oil is important for safe engine operation, check the oil using the dipstick each time you - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 318
. Recheck the oil level after you finish adding oil. Changing the Engine Oil and the Oil Filter Refer to the Maintenance Schedule and Record booklet for additional information. NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive fluids in a responsible manner. Follow your community's standards for disposing - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 319
Servicing Your Windstar RWARNING Continuous contact with USED motor oil has caused cancer in laboratory mice. Protect your skin by washing with soap and water. Engine Coolant Checking the engine coolant Your vehicle's engine coolant protects the engine from overheating in the summer and from - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 320
coolant recovery reservoir fill location Use Ford Premium Cooling System Fluid or an equivalent engine coolant that meets Ford Specification ESE-M97B44-A. Do not use alcohol or methanol antifreeze and do not use engine coolant mixed with alcohol or methanol antifreeze. If you do not use the proper - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 321
the radiator to see if it is low. Check the coolant level again the next few times you drive your vehicle. Ford Premium Cooling System Fluid is an optimized formula that will protect all metals and rubber elastomers used in Ford engines for four years or 50,000 miles (80,000 km). It is not necessary - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 322
engine cooling system. Follow the recommended service interval for changing your engine coolant. NOTE: When adding to or changing your engine coolant, it is important to maintain a coolant concentration between 40% ( 11˚F [ 24˚C]) and 60% ( 62˚F [ 52˚C]) depending on your local climate conditions - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 323
whatever repairs or replacements are necessary using Motorcraft parts or their equivalents. Engine coolant drain and flush To drain and flush your engine coolant, you MUST see your Ford dealer or refer to the procedure in the service manual. Failing to do so could result in engine damage. Battery - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 324
If possible, however, try to only fill the battery cell with distilled water. If the battery needs water often, have the charging system checked. Help Us Protect Our Environment Ford Motor Company strongly recommends that used lead-acid batteries be returned to an authorized recycling facility for - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 325
Servicing Your Windstar RWARNING The gases around the battery can explode if exposed to flames, sparks, or lit cigarettes. An explosion could result in injury or vehicle damage. RWARNING Batteries contain sulfuric acid which burns skin, eyes, and clothing. If the acid touches someone's skin, eyes, - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 326
use of the most common antifreeze, methanol. Washer fluids containing non-methanol antifreeze agents should be used only if they provide cold weather protection without damaging the vehicle's paint finish, wiper blades, and windshield washer system - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 327
Servicing Your Windstar Wiper Blades Check the windshield wipers at least twice a year. Also check them whenever they ignition switch to ACCESSORY and turn your wipers on. Wait for them to reach a vertical position and turn the ignition to OFF. Moving the wipers manually may damage them. Replacing - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 328
at your tires each time you fill your fuel tank. If one tire looks lower than the others, check the pressure in all of them. s Keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressures. See Checking the pressure of the tires later in this chapter. s Stay within the recommended load limits. See Driving - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 329
Servicing Your Windstar RWARNING Always obey posted speed limits. If you drive too fast for road conditions, you could lose control of your vehicle potential loss of vehicle control. Any time you lose control of your vehicle, it may result in injury. At least once a month, check the pressure in all - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 330
. If your vehicle has aluminum wheels, you may remove the full-size (if equipped) spare tire from the wheel and remount it on an aluminum wheel to rotate the spare tire into your vehicle's rotation pattern. Replacing the Tires Replace tires that show wear bands. When your tire shows a wear band - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 331
Servicing Your Windstar Because your vehicle's tires may wear unevenly, you may need to replace them before a wear band appears across the entire tread. Some spots wear more heavily than others. RWARNING When replacing full size tires, never mix radial, bias-belted, or bias-type tires. Use only the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 332
Department of Transportation requires Ford to give you the following information about tire grades exactly as the government has written it. Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 333
Servicing Your Windstar Traction A B C 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 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 334
use the tire chains: s Make sure the chains are the right size for your tires. Use only SAE Class "S" chains. Other types tightly with the ends held down securely. Follow the chain manufacturer's instructions. s Drive slowly. If you can hear the chains rub lightly loaded s To avoid sharp turns 334 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 335
to change the fluid at 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for normal operating conditions or 21,000 miles (34,000 km) for severe duty. However, if the transaxle is not working properly (for example, slipping or shifting slowly), or you notice some sign of fluid leakage, the fluid level should be checked. It - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 336
set the parking brake and leave the engine running. Wipe off the dipstick cap, pull the dipstick out and wipe the indicator end clean. Put the dipstick back into the filler tube and make sure it is fully seated. Pull the dipstick out and read the fluid level. When checking fluid at normal operating - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 337
level is low. Under normal circumstances, your vehicle should not use up brake fluid rapidly. However, expect the level of the brake fluid to slowly fall as you put more mileage on your vehicle and the brake pads wear. Check the brake fluid at least once a year. You can do this by looking at the - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 338
cap from the reservoir. Fill the reservoir to the MAX line with Ford High Performance DOT 3 Brake Fluid C6AZ-19542-AA or DOT 3 equivalent fluid meeting Ford specification ESA-M6C25-A. The brake fluid reservoir RWARNING If you use a brake fluid that is not DOT 3, you will cause permanent damage to - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 339
Servicing Your Windstar RWARNING Do not let the reservoir for the master cylinder run dry. This may cause the brakes to fail. Power Steering Fluid Check the level of the power steering fluid at least twice a year (i.e., every Spring and Fall). To check the level of your power steering fluid: 1. - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 340
checking the level, until the fluid is between the minimum (MIN) and maximum (MAX) lines on the dipstick. Do not overfill. 6. Make sure the cap is free of all dirt prior to re-installing to prevent pump damage. Use only power steering fluid that meets Ford Specification ESW-M2C33-F, such as Ford - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 341
Servicing Your Windstar Fuses and Maxi-Fuses Fuses and maxi-fuses (high-current fuses) protect your vehicle's electrical system from overloading. If electrical parts in your vehicle are not working, the system may have been overloaded and caused a blown fuse. Before you replace or repair any - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 342
Checking and Replacing Fuses If you need to check a fuse, find the fuse panel for the electrical system, which is located under the instrument panel, and follow these steps: 1. To remove the fuse panel cover, pull down on the fuse panel cover handle. - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 343
Servicing Your Windstar 2. On the fuse panel, find the number of the fuse you want to check. Main fuse panel under instrument panel 343 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 344
344 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 345
Servicing Your Windstar 345 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 346
Check the fuse to see if it is blown. Look through the clear side of the fuse to see if the metal wire inside is separated. If it is, the fuse is blown and should be replaced with a fuse of the correct amperage rating. Fuse puller tool and fuse RWARNING Always replace replace a - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 347
Servicing Your Windstar The following chart indicates the colors and amperage ratings of standard fuses. 347 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 348
Engine Compartment Main Fuse Panel Engine compartment main fuse panel located on driver's side of engine compartment Engine compartment main fuse and relay panel 348 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 349
Servicing Your Windstar 349 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 350
RWARNING Always disconnect the battery before servicing high current fuses. Ford recommends that high current fuses be replaced by a qualified technician. RWARNING Always replace the cover to the Power Distribution Box before reconnecting the battery or refilling fluid reservoirs. A blown maxi-fuse - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 351
Servicing Your Windstar The relay box cover located under the instrument panel Lights It is a good idea to check the operation of the following lights frequently: s headlamps s tail lamps s brakelamps s hazard flasher s turn signals s license plate lamp s fog lamps 351 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 352
light to see clearly at night s the headlamp beams are not pointed slightly down and to the right Replacing the Headlamp Bulb The headlamps on your vehicle use replaceable bulbs. When the lamp burns out, simply replace Make sure that the engine is off and the headlamp switch on the instrument - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 353
Servicing Your Windstar Headlamp bulb removal 3. Squeeze the bulb retaining clip toward the bulb until it releases. Keep the clip. bulb. Always grasp the bulb assembly from the plastic base. 6. Be sure that you have the proper replacement bulb ready before you discard the burned out bulb. 353 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 354
the socket. You may need to turn the bulb left or right to line up the grooves in the plastic base with the tabs in the socket. properly. If the headlamp was correctly aligned before you changed bulbs, you should not need to align it again. Replacing the Taillamp Bulbs To remove a bulb: 1. Open - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 355
Servicing Your Windstar Taillamp lens removal 4. Grasp lens along liftgate opening edge and Align pins along liftgate edge with holes in body and snap attachment into retainer. 4. Rock lens around on outer edge and snap in second snap attachment. 5. Replace two screws along top edge of lens. 355 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 356
Light bulb locations 356 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 357
Servicing Your Windstar Replacing The Fog Lamp Bulb To remove a bulb: 1. Disconnect wiring connector from lamp. 2. Rotate bulb and socket to remove from lamp. To install a bulb: 1. Install bulb and socket into lamp and rotate. 2. Connect wiring connector to lamp. 357 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 358
Bulb replacement chart 358 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 359
Servicing Your Windstar Emission Control System Your vehicle is equipped with a catalytic converter which enables your vehicle to comply with applicable exhaust emission requirements. To make sure that the catalytic converter and the other emission control parts continue to work properly: s Use - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 360
from working. 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 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 361
Servicing Your Windstar Ford strongly recommends the use of genuine Ford replacement parts. If other than Ford or Motorcraft parts or Ford authorized remanufactured parts are used for maintenance replacements or for the service of components affecting emission control, such non-Ford parts should be - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 362
steps. Always drive vehicle in a safe manner according to traffic conditions and obey all traffic laws. 1. Start engine and drive until engine has reached normal operating temperature. 2. Idle vehicle for at least 80 seconds, then accelerate at part throttle to near 45 mph (70 km/h). 3. Drive to - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 363
Servicing Your Windstar 8. Cruise and maintain a select speed in the range of 40-65 mph (65-105 km/h) on a level road with throttle held very steady for at - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 364
Motorcraft Parts 364 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 365
Servicing Your Windstar Lubricant Specifications 365 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 366
recommendations to keep your vehicle in good operating condition. General s Store your vehicle in a maintenance to protect against rust and damage. Body s Wash your vehicle thoroughly to remove s Cover chrome and stainless steel parts with a thick coat of auto wax to prevent discoloration. Re-wax - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 367
Servicing Your Windstar Engine s Start the engine every fifteen days. Run it at fast idle until it reaches normal operating temperature. s With your foot on the brake, shift the transaxle into all gears while the engine is running. Fuel system s Fill fuel tank with high-quality unleaded fuel - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 368
system s Protect your vehicle against freezing temperatures. Battery s Check and recharge the battery as necessary. s Keep connections clean and covered with a light coat of grease. Brakes s Make sure the brakes and parking brake are fully released. Tires s Maintain recommended air pressure - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 369
Warning label locations 369 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 370
Front exterior view 371 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 371
Rear exterior view 372 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 372
Entrance view 373 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 373
Driver's door 374 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 374
Instrument panel 375 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 375
Mechanical instrument cluster 376 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 376
Mechanical instrument cluster with tachometer 377 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 377
Electronic instrument cluster 378 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 378
Rear cargo area 379 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 379
belts ...Air conditioning, manual heating and air conditioning system ...Alarm, activating remote personal...Alcohol, in fuel ...Aluminum wheels ...Antenna, radio (see Electronic sound system). . Antifreeze (see Engine coolant) ...Anti-lock brake system (ABS) description ...noise ...see also Brake - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 380
...charging system warning light ...how to service ...jumping a disabled battery...maintenance-free ...proper disposal, recycling ...when storing your vehicle ...Brake fluid brake warning light ...checking and adding ...specifications ...Brakelamp, bulb replacement ...Brakes adjustment ...anti-lock - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 381
...62 Cargo net ...192 Car seats for children (see Child safety seats) ...39 Cassette tape player (see Electronic sound system) ...213, 225, 228 Catalytic converter ...359 CD player (see Electronic sound system) ...201 Chains, tires...333 Changing a tire ...267 Charging system warning light ...72 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 382
...interior lamps ...plastic parts ...polishing ...rustproofing ...safety belts ...tail lamps ...upholstery and interior trim ...washing ...wheels ...Climate control system air conditioning ...heating...Clock...Cold engine starting ...Combination lap and shoulder belts ...Compact disc radio (see - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 383
door ajar warning light ...lubricant specifications ...Driving under special conditions bad weather ...heavy load ...high speed ...high water ...slippery roads ...towing a trailer ...117 106 286 143 74, 90 . 365 ...247 248 246 247 247 249 E Electrical system operating when the engine is off ...55 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 384
battery acid spills ...jump-starting ...towing ...Emergency brake (parking brake) ...Emission control system catalytic converter...emissions warranty ...Engine check engine warning light ...does not start...fuel injected engine, starting ...fuel pump shut-off switch ...preparing to start ...service - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 385
oil (continued) disposal ...engine oil pressure warning filter, specifications ...refill capacities ...synthetic oil ..."break-in" oils ...viscosity ...Entry system illuminated ...keyless ...remote ...Exhaust fumes...Extended Service Plan, Ford ...light ...318 73, 89 . 364 . 363 . 317 . . 5 . 317 - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 386
average economy ...engine/metric button ...instant economy ...reset button ...select button ...to empty indicator ...trip distance ...Fuel cap, replacing ...Fuel filter, specifications ...Fuel gauge ...Fuel pump shut-off switch ...Fuse panels, engine compartment . Fuses, checking and replacing - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 387
autolamp system ...checking alignment ...cleaning ...daytime running lights...flashing ...high beam ...replacing bulbs ...turning on and off ...warning chime ...Head restraints ...Heated mirrors ...Heating manual heating and air conditioning rear seat controls ...High beams, indicator light ...Hitch - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 388
270 263 266 K Keyless entry system autolock ...locking and unlocking doors . programming entry code . . Keys positions of the ignition ...removing from the ignition . stuck in lock position ...154 150 149 55 56 56 L Lamps daytime running light dome lamps ...flashing the lamps . fog lamps ...hazard - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 389
warning and indicator air bag ...anti-lock brakes (ABS) ...anti-theft ...brake ...charging system...check engine ...door ajar ...hazard warning light ...high beam ...low fuel ...low washer fluid ...oil pressure ...safety belt ...speed control ...theft system ...traction control system...turn signal - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 390
...Oil (see Engine oil) ...On-board diagnostic (OBD II) system Order forms, service information . . Overdrive ...79, 96 . . 80 . 316 . 361 . 198 . 237 152 P Panic alarm feature, remote entry system Parking brake operation...warning light ...Parts (see Motorcraft Parts)...PCV valve, specifications - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 391
) . Rear climate control system...Rearview mirror ...Rear window ...defroster ...washer ...Refill capacities for fluids...Relays ...Remote entry system illuminated entry ...locking/unlocking doors ...panic alarm ...replacement/additional transmitters . replacing the batteries ...Restraints, safety - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 392
seats ...cleaning upholstery ...seat/bed conversion ...Servicing your vehicle, precautions when servicing . Shoulder and lap belts (see Safety restraints) ...Snow tires and chains ...Special driving conditions ...Speed control canceling a set speed ...resetting ...resuming a set speed ...Speedometer - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 393
Warning chimes, safety belt...Warning lights (see Lights) ...Warranties, radio ...Warranty Information Booklet ...Washer fluid, reservoir ...Wheels cleaning ...inspection and maintenance ...Windows ...Windshield washer fluid and wipers checking and adding fluid ...checking and replacing wiper blades - 1996 Ford Windstar | Owner's Manual - Page 394
Service Station Information 396
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