1996 Mercury Villager Owner Guide 1st Printing
1996 Mercury Villager Manual
1996 Mercury Villager manual content summary:
- 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 1
- 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 2
- 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 3
89 Steering Column Controls ...Features ...Adjustable Rear Seating ...Electronic Sound Systems ...123 135 175 205 229 255 275 281 287 295 375 385 404 Driving Your Villager ...Roadside Emergencies ...Customer Assistance ... Reporting Safety Defects Accessories ...Servicing Your Villager Quick Index - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 4
means 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 are the focus of everything we do. Our work must be done with you in mind, providing better - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 5
do: in our products - in their safety and value - and in our services, our human relations, our competitiveness, and our profitability. s Employee involvement is Things to Know About Using This Guide Congratulations on the purchase of your new vehicle. This guide has information about the equipment - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 6
Owner Guides can be obtained from your dealer or by writing to Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited, Service Publications, P.O. Box 1580, Station B, Mississauga, Ontario L4Y 4G3. Maintenance Schedule As with any other member of your family, your new vehicle requires routine care and regular check - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 7
certain parts, Mercury dealer, or refer to the addresses and phone numbers on the first page of this owner guide. Ford's Extended Service service contract backed by Ford Motor Company. Ford ESP is an optional service contract, backed and administered by Ford. It provides: s protection against repair - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 8
of more than 5,100 participating Ford Motor Company dealers. NOTE: Repairs performed outside the United States and Canada engine oil that Ford recommends. See Engine oil recommendations in the Index. Do not use special "break-in" oils. s Avoid sudden stops. Because your vehicle has new brake linings - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 9
the Outside of Your Villager Washing and Polishing Your Vehicle Wash the outside of your vehicle, including the underside, with a mild detergent. DO NOT: s Wash your vehicle with hot water s Wash your vehicle while it sits in direct sunlight s Wash your vehicle while the body is hot Pollen, bird - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 10
. Clean with a tar and road oil remover if necessary. Use a vinyl cleaner for routine cleaning. Do not clean plastic parts with thinners, solvents or petroleum-based cleaners. If you have your vehicle rustproofed, remove oversprayed rustproofing with a tar and road oil remover. If rustproofing - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 11
against the chest s the knees are straight forward To help you remember to fasten your safety belt, a warning light may come on and a chime may sound. See Safety Belt Warning Light and Chime in the Warning Lights and Gauges chapter. See the following sections in this chapter for directions on how to - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 12
not fully upright, there is a greater risk that the child will slide under the safety belt and be seriously injured in a collision. R WARNING Never let a passenger hold a collision. R WARNING Lock the doors of your vehicle before driving to lessen the risk of the door coming open in a collision. 10 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 13
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, the lap and shoulder belt locks and helps to reduce your forward movement. After you get into your vehicle, close the door and lock it. Then adjust the seat to the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 14
- front and rear outboard seating positions Third-row passengers should be aware that the proper safety belt for their seating position is slightly behind their seat. They should not use the second-row safety belts which are in front of the third seat. Fastening the rear seat combination lap and - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 15
hips as possible. The passenger seated near the sliding door in the three-passenger bench seat can route the safety belt webbing under the guide located on the head restraint. This safety belt guide is designed to help keep the safety belt webbing properly positioned across the passenger's chest for - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 16
Using the seat belt guide with the three-passenger bench seat in the second row position 14 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 17
belt system is used properly. Please read Auxiliary safety restraint system for the second row bench seat in this section, which explains the unique safety belt system mode, the shoulder belt retractor will allow the occupant freedom of movement, locking tight only on hard braking, hard cornering or - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 18
the retractor is in the automatic locking mode. NOTE: When the combination lap/shoulder belt is unbuckled and allowed to retract completely, the retractor will switch to the vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking mode. See the detailed instructions under Safety Seats for Children in this chapter. 16 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 19
adjuster is firmly in one of the five positions. The belt should be adjusted up or down until the belt rests on your shoulder near your neck. The shoulder belt height adjuster R WARNING Position the shoulder belt height adjuster so that the belt rests across the middle of your shoulder. Be sure - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 20
belt: Fasten the center tongue and buckle when not in use. This will prevent the belt from falling between the seat and the seatback. Auxiliary Safety Restraint System sliding door) of the two-passenger bench seat. The two-passenger bench seat in the second row has a safety restraint system made up - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 21
to the buckle mounted to the side of the seat. The seat belt tongue with two windows should be pulled across the passenger's chest and fastened to the buckle mounted in the standard location in the middle of the seat. The auxiliary safety retraint system for the second row bench seat 19 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 22
safety restraint system fastened A twisted belt may prevent the retractor from working properly. If the unique safety belt system is twisted, moved up to the second-row position, the outside passenger (near the sliding door) only needs to use the double window tongue and the standard buckle. - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 23
vehicle, you must detach the single window tongue from the auxiliary buckle. Third-row passengers must be very careful when exiting if the auxiliary restraint system is being used by a second-row passenger. It is important to step over the seat belt guide and belt webbing to avoid tripping. 21 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 24
Exiting a vehicle with the auxiliary safety restraint system Labels are provided on the back of the second-row bench seat to remind passengers to use care when exiting. Safety Belt Extension Assembly A safety belt may be too short even when it is fully extended. You can add about eight inches (20 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 25
and replaced if either damage or improper operation is noted. Cleaning the Safety Belts Clean the safety belts with any mild soap solution that is recommended for cleaning upholstery or carpets. Do not bleach or dye the belt because this may weaken it. Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 26
vehicle, including the driver, should always wear their safety belts, even when an air bag Supplemental Restraint System is provided. There are four very important reasons to use safety belts even with a supplemental air bag system. Use your safety belts to: s help keep you in the proper position - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 27
compartment of the instrument panel, or lean over near the air bag cover when the vehicle is moving. All occupants should sit with their backs against the seatback, move the seat to the most rearward position if possible and use the safety belts. Children weighing less than 40 lbs. (18 kg) always - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 28
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, a readiness light - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 29
collision occurs, the sensors sense the severity of the impact and activate the air bags if necessary. The air bag system is designed to deploy in frontal and front-angled collisions more severe than hitting a parked vehicle (of similar size and weight) head-on at about 28 mph (45 km/h). Because the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 30
R WARNING Air bag system components get hot after inflation. Do not touch them after inflation. Inflated driver side supplemental air bag 28 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 31
AGAIN AND MUST BE REPLACED IMMEDIATELY. If the air bag is not replaced, the unrepaired area will increase the risk of injury in a collision. To 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 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 32
The tone pattern will repeat periodically until the problem and light are repaired. If any of these things happen, have the air bag system serviced at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer immediately. Unless serviced, the air bag supplemental restraint system may not function properly in the event of - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 33
40 pounds (18 kg) or less - you must put them in safety seats that are made specially for children. Safety belts alone do not provide maximum protection for these children. Check your local and state laws for specific requirements. R WARNING Never let a passenger hold a child on his or her lap while - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 34
WARNING 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 that is recommended for the size and weight of the child. Always follow the safety seat manufacturer's instructions when installing and using the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 35
with a sliding tongue, make sure the retractor is in the automatic locking mode. 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. R WARNING REAR-FACING INFANT SEATS SHOULD NEVER BE USED IN THE FRONT SEAT. REAR-FACING - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 36
The passenger side quick-release second row bucket seat is adjustable along a track and may be adjusted very close to the front passenger seat to allow easier entry and exit to third row seats. R WARNING The quick-release seat must be adjusted to the rearmost position when using an untethered - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 37
Mode Retractor to Secure a Child Safety Seat 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 passenger seat and rear outer seats. The automatic locking mode must be used when installing a child seat - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 38
seat, slide the seat to the rearmost position. 2. Follow the child seat or infant carrier manufacturer's instructions. Route the safety belt through the child seat or infant carrier and insert the safety belt tongue into the buckle until you hear and feel the latch engage. Be sure to follow the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 39
Safety Restraints 4. Allow the belt to retract. A clicking sound will be heard as the belt retracts. This indicates that the retractor is in the automatic locking mode. 5. Pull up on the shoulder belt to remove slack in the belt while you push down on the child seat. Removing slack from the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 40
automatic locking mode. 8. Check to make sure the child seat or infant carrier is properly secured prior to each use. If the safety belt is not locked, repeat steps 3 through 6. NOTE: When the lap/shoulder belt is unbuckled and allowed to retract completely, the retractor will switch to the vehicle - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 41
the belt and allow the webbing to retract fully. Attaching Safety Seats With Tether Straps Some manufacturers make safety seats that include a tether strap that goes over the back of the vehicle seat and attaches to an anchoring point. Other manufacturers offer the tether strap as an accessory - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 42
40 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 43
Safety Restraints Tethering to floor anchor Ford recommends placing tethered safety seats in a rear seating position with the tether strap attached to the tether anchoring point as shown in the following illustration. Tether anchor point locations To gain access to the anchoring bolt, cut through - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 44
the possibility of exhaust fumes entering the passenger compartment. Tethering to lap/shoulder belt tongue To attach a tether strap to a lap/shoulder belt: 1. Route the tether strap under the headrest and between the headrest supports. 2. Hook the tether strap hook into the large hole at the end - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 45
sure it is securely held in place. 7. Check that the retractor is in automatic locking mode by trying to pull more belt out of the retractor. If you cannot pull any more belt webbing out of the retractor, the belt is in automatic locking mode. 8. Check to make sure the child restraint is properly - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 46
center of the vehicle may help provide a good shoulder belt fit. To improve the fit of lap and shoulder belts on children who have outgrown child safety seats, Ford recommends use of a belt-positioning booster seat that is labelled as conforming to all Federal motor vehicle safety standards. Belt - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 47
seatback in the fully upright position. When the seatback is not fully upright, there is a greater risk that the child will slide under the safety belt and be seriously injured in a collision. Built-In Child Seats (If equipped) The optional second row bench seat includes two built-in child seats - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 48
aftermarket child safety seat. Follow the specific manufacturer's instructions for weight and height restrictions. Children must be properly /Canadian motor vehicle safety standards. R WARNING The second row seatback must be fully locked before operating the child restraint system. Check the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 49
from the emergency locking mode to the automatic locking mode when the right shoulder belt is pulled all the way out. The retractor will switch back to emergency locking mode when the belts are unbuckled and the shoulder belts retract completely. The automatic locking mode must be used to hold small - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 50
R WARNING The child seats' metal and plastic parts can become very hot when left in the sun. These can cause burns to unprotected skin. R WARNING Failure to follow all of the instructions on the use of this child restraint system can result in your child striking the vehicle's interior during a - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 51
Safety Restraints 49 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 52
2. If connected, unbuckle the two safety belt tongues. Also detach the chest clip. 50 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 53
Safety Restraints 51 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 54
3. Place the child in the built-in child seat. Position the crotch belt buckle between the child's legs. 52 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 55
harness tongue indicator is green. 6. Fasten the two halves of the chest clip below the child's shoulders. Adjust the clip to comfortably hold the shoulder belts in place on the child's chest. Confirm that the chest clip indicator is green. NOTE: The chest clip can be easily pulled apart and is - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 56
into the locking mode. At this time, the shoulder belts are in an automatic locking mode. Allow the safety belts to tighten snugly against the child's shoulders. The belt will automatically lock and cannot be pulled out. 8. If the shoulder belts are too tight, unlatch the chest clip and unbuckle - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 57
by squeezing together the release tabs on the top and bottom edges of the center of the chest clip. Pull the two halves apart. 2. Press the release button on the crotch belt buckle. 3. Slide the shoulder belts off the child's shoulders. Remove the child from the built-in child seat. 4. Confirm - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 58
5. While holding the cushion release strap, rotate the cushion upward until it fits flush with the second row seatback pad. 6. Confirm that the built-in child seat is locked in the stowed position by grasping the safety seat cushion and attempting to lower it without pulling the cushion release - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 59
Your Villager Ignition Understanding the Positions of the Ignition Your vehicle's ignition has four positions. They are: The ignition positions 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 engine - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 60
accessories while the engine is not running. For example, you can use ACCESSORY to turn on the radio, windshield wipers, or operate the cigarette lighter without starting the engine. Ignition Key Chime The chime will sound if you open the driver's door ). 2. Set the parking brake fully. 3. Turn the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 61
Villager have problems getting your vehicle started. See Starting Your Engine in 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 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 62
gearshift is in P (Park) and the parking brake is set before you turn the key. 4. Test the warning lights on the instrument cluster to make sure they work. Refer to the Warning Lights and Gauges chapter. Starting Your Engine To start your engine: 1. Follow the steps under Preparing to Start Your - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 63
out of Park (P) unless your foot is on the brake pedal. If the engine does not start after two attempts: 1. Turn the engine starts. 5. Release the accelerator gradually as the engine speeds up. Then drive away in the normal manner. If the engine still does not start, the fuel pump shut-off switch - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 64
computer system controls the engine's idle speed. When you start your vehicle, the engine's idle speed normally runs high. These faster engine have the idle speed checked. If the engine idle speed does not slow ground cover. The emission system heats up the engine compartment and exhaust system - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 65
vehicle the following morning. What To Do If The Engine Does Not Start Fuel Pump Shut-Off Switch If the engine cranks but does not start or does not start after a collision, the fuel pump shut-off switch may have been triggered. The shut-off switch is a device intended to stop the fuel pump when - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 66
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. If your engine cranks, but does not start after a collision: 1. Turn the key in the ignition to the OFF position. 2. Check Check all vehicle warning lights - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 67
If the engine is idling while you are stopped in an open area for long periods of time, open the windows at least one inch (2.5 cm). Also, adjust the heating or air conditioning to bring in outside air. Read the section Climate Control Systems for instructions on bringing fresh outside air into your - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 68
. In your vehicle, the warning lights and gauges are grouped together on the instrument panel. We call this grouping a cluster. Your vehicle may have a mechanical cluster or an electronic cluster. If you are not sure which cluster your vehicle has, check the diagrams on the following pages. 67 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 69
Mechanical Cluster Mechanical cluster 68 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 70
bulb is working. If the light stays on or comes on when the engine is running and after you have released the parking brake fully, have the hydraulic brake system serviced. RWARNING The BRAKE light indicates that the brakes may not be working properly. Have the brakes checked immediately. 69 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - 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 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 72
switch is turned to the ON position. If there is a problem with the system, the readiness light may fail to illuminate, continue to flash, or remain on. If any of these conditions occur, have the system serviced as soon as possible. Unless the system is serviced, the supplemental air bag system - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 73
Supplemental air bag readiness light Check Engine Warning Light This light comes on when the electronic engine control system is not working properly. This is the computer that controls the operating conditions of the engine. Check engine warning light This light comes on briefly when you turn - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 74
battery is not being charged and that you need to have the electrical system checked. Charging system light This light comes on every time you turn your ignition key to the ON or START position. The light should go off when the engine starts and the alternator begins to charge. If the light stays - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 75
the instructions on checking and adding engine oil in this owner guide. (See Engine oil in the index.) Make sure your vehicle is on level ground. 4. If the level is low, add as much oil as necessary before you drive your vehicle again. Do not drive your vehicle if the oil pressure light is - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 76
to the ON position. Overdrive off indicator light If the light flashes for about 8 seconds when the ignition is turned to ON, it means the transaxle control unit received an improper signal the last time the vehicle was operated. It may be necessary to have your dealer check the transaxle. 75 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 77
1/8 of a tank. It will remain illuminated until the tank is filled with enough fuel to pass the 1/8 full level. Low fuel light Low Washer Fluid Light The low washer fluid light will remain illuminated when the washer fluid sensor indicates that the washer fluid level is low. Low washer fluid - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 78
the headlamps are turned to high beam or when you flash the lights. High beam light "Headlamps On" Alert Chime This chime will sound if you open the door while the headlamps or parking lamps are on. Gauges Fuel reading may be obtained when the vehicle is on smooth, level ground. Fuel gauge 77 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 79
as soon as safely possible, severe engine damage could result. 3. Let the engine cool. DO NOT REMOVE COOLANT SYSTEM FILL CAP UNTIL THE ENGINE IS COOL. 4. Check the coolant level following the instructions on checking and adding coolant to your engine, see Engine coolant in the Index. If you - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 80
Warning Lights and Gauges Engine coolant temperature gauge Speedometer The speedometer tells you how many miles (kilometers) per hour your vehicle is moving. Odometer The odometer records the total distance the vehicle has been driven. 79 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 81
trip, set the trip odometer to zero by pushing the reset button. Speedometer, odometer and trip odometer Tachometer The tachometer tells you how fast the engine is running by indicating approximate engine revolutions per minute. Driving with the pointer in the red zone may cause - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 82
Warning Lights and Gauges Electronic Cluster (If equipped) Electronic cluster 81 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 83
all of the same warning lights as the mechanical cluster, however, some of the gauges will be electronic instead of analog. In addition, the electronic cluster has a fuel computer for measuring fuel economy, distance to empty and outside air temperature. Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge This gauge - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 84
Gauges Engine coolant temperature gauge Fuel Gauge The fuel gauge displays approximately how much fuel you have in the fuel tank. The number of bars illuminated in the display indicates how much fuel is left. An accurate reading may be obtained when the vehicle is on smooth, level ground. Fuel - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 85
has five buttons to operate the different functions. SELECT - The SELECT button lets you choose the functions of the fuel computer. Each time you press the SELECT button, the computer advances to the next choice on the menu. After it reaches the last choice on the menu, it returns to the top - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 86
Warning Lights and Gauges OD/TRIP - The OD/TRIP button lets you switch the display between the permanent odometer mileage and the trip odometer mileage. Fuel computer functions Fuel and distance computer display OUTSIDE TEMP This feature lets you display the temperature of the air outside of your - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 87
economy is in heavy traffic or on the highway. Factors such as braking, acceleration, and road terrain affect your fuel economy. To display instantaneous fuel economy taken from the last time the reset button was pushed. The computer takes an average of all the types of driving you have done since - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 88
Warning Lights and Gauges TO EMPTY The Distance to Empty function tells you approximately how many miles or kilometers you can drive until you run out of fuel. To see the Distance to Empty, press the SELECT button until the menu displays TO EMPTY. The fuel computer displays approximate distance to - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 89
Instrument Panel Controls Instrument Panel Instrument panel 89 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 90
The instrument panel (dashboard) on your vehicle is divided into 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. 90 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 91
power switch, and speed control are all on the instrument panel. Climate Control Systems Climate control system panel Function Selector Buttons There are six function selector buttons: OFF, Mix, Defrost, Panel, Panel/Floor, and Floor. When you press a function selector button, the indicator light - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 92
fog buildup on interior glass surfaces. This fogging can make it difficult to see the road for safe driving. Operating the system with outside air (i.e., with the air intake selector button off) and with one of the five function selector buttons selected (Defrost, Mix, Floor, Panel/Floor, or Panel - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 93
to entrapped humidity within the vehicle. To counteract this circumstance, switch to the Defrost mode and set fan speed to 3 or 4. Adjust air temperature to a "warm" instead of "hot" setting. Heating Only System (Without air conditioning) You can heat and ventilate the inside of your vehicle, or - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 94
been running for a sufficient time as indicated by the engine coolant temperature gauge. To heat the inside of your vehicle: 1. Press the function selector button for Floor. Heating only climate control system panel 2. Turn the temperature control knob toward the WARM (red) area. 3. Turn the fan - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 95
knob toward WARM (red) for warmer temperatures and toward COOL (blue) for cooler temperatures. The temperature control knob setting determines the temperature of the air being discharged from the system in all operating modes (heating or A/C). s Do not place objects under the front seats unless - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 96
seat passengers will have control of rear fan speed on the rear seat climate control panel. Positions 1, 2, 3, or 4 will control rear fan speed from the front control panel. The temperature of the air from the rear system is controlled by the rear passenger compartment climate control system. 96 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 97
Instrument Panel Controls Heating and air conditioning climate control system panel The standard heating system and the heating portion of the heating and air conditioning system are essentially identical. There is one exception, however; the air conditioning compressor may automatically engage - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 98
is reached, you may decide to switch to the outside air mode. 5. Turn the fan speed knob to the position of your choice. 6. If your vehicle is equipped with the rear passenger compartment air conditioning unit, it will be on when the front A/C is on and the rear climate control lever is set to REAR - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 99
can add cool air to your vehicle without using air conditioning. You will get better fuel economy this way. The procedure for ventilating your vehicle with the standard heating system or with the air conditioning system is the same. Refer to the previous section for instructions on how to ventilate - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 100
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 days. Instead, set the air intake selector button in the outside air position and turn the temperature control knob to the COOL position - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 101
set at REAR, rear seat passengers can control their own fan speed. The rear passenger compartment climate control system has a fan speed knob which controls the speed at which air is discharged from the vents. The vent selection switch determines whether the air is discharged from the upper vents or - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 102
Rear seat climate control system panel NOTE: For maximum heating and cooling for front seat passengers, set the rear fan switch to the OFF position. 102 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 103
Instrument Panel Controls Automatic Temperature Control System The control for your Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) is located at the center of the instrument panel above the radio. The ATC operates only when the ignition key is turned to the ON position and the vehicle is - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 104
to select the A/C button if you desire cool air-conditioned air. (Your ATC automatically operates the air conditioning [if required] when you are in the AUTOMATIC mode without illuminating the A/C button, but the system requires you to manually select the A/C button if you desire A/C operation when - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 105
so automatically without illuminating the A/C button. When in AUTOMATIC and weather conditions require heat, air is sent to the floor. However, a feature is included in the ATC to prevent blowing cold air to the floor if the engine coolant is not warm enough to provide heating. Within three or four - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 106
. Changing the Display Mode (English/Metric) To switch between the English and Metric display mode, press existing conditions. To control the fan speed yourself, use the thumbwheel and down for LO speeds. To return to auto fan control, press the AUTOMATIC button. Airflow Function Selector Buttons - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 107
When the outside temperature is about 50˚F (10˚C) the air conditioning functions in order to dehumidify the air to prevent window fogging. Q Push this button to select airflow through the instrument panel registers. The Q indicator light illuminates and the display window shows the set temperature - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 108
this mode the ATC system recirculates the air inside the vehicle rather than drawing air from outside. Use this mode together with the air conditioning to rapidly cool the inside of the vehicle or to dehumidify the air inside the vehicle. Rear Passenger Compartment Climate Control System with Front - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 109
by using the vent selection switch on the rear climate control panel. The air temperature from the rear climate control system will be automatically controlled by the front ATC system. Rear seat passengers cannot control fan speed or air temperature by using the temperature control knobs on the rear - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 110
on. The control switch is located on the instrument panel to the right of the steering column. Rear window defogger switch location Clear away any snow that is on the rear window and outside rearview mirrors before using the defroster. With the engine running, push the defroster button. After - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 111
panel to the right of the instrument cluster. The rear wiper and washer controls operate with the ignition in the ACC and ON positions. Rear wiper and washer switch locations To turn on the rear wiper, press the RR WIPER switch. The wiper will operate until it is turned off. The wiper will - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 112
used when the hazard lamps are flashing. Operation of the hazard flashers does not affect operation of the brakelamps. The flashers work even with the key out of the ignition. The flashers will work for up to two hours when the battery is fully charged and in good condition. They will not drain the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 113
Instrument Panel Controls Hazard flasher switch location Interior and Exterior Lights To turn on the headlamps, parking lamps, marker lamps, tail lamps and instrument panel lights, use the headlamp control knob, to the left of the instrument cluster. 1. Turn the headlamp knob to the first position - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 114
the high beam headlamps on, with a reduced light output, when: 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. This is a normal condition. 114 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 115
with the DIM switch. The DIM switch is located near the headlamp controls. Pushing and holding the right side of the switch will continue to brighten the lights until the maximum brightness is reached. Release the switch to maintain the desired brightness. The DIM feature works similarly to dim - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 116
three minutes after you turn the key to OFF. To set the autolamp: 1. Make sure the headlamp control knob is in the OFF position. If the knob for the headlamps is on, the autolamp system is canceled. 2. Turn the ignition key to ON to start your vehicle. 3. Use the autolamp thumbwheel to - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 117
Instrument Panel Controls Autolamp thumbwheel location 4. Move the thumbwheel all the way to the right located in the top right side of the instrument panel speaker grille. The photodiode controls the autolamp; if it is covered, the photodiode reacts as if it is nighttime, and the headlamps will - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 118
off your ignition. The farther the thumbwheel is moved to the right, the longer the headlamps stay on. The chime will sound when the autolamp system turns the headlamps on and the driver's door is open. Interior Lamps The front dome lamp is located overhead between the driver and front passenger - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 119
Instrument Panel Controls The dome lamp switch positions Either dome lamp will stay illuminated if the switch is pushed to the ON position. The dome lamps will stay off if the switch is pushed to the OFF position. When the switch is positioned to the door/middle position, the dome lamps will come - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 120
option, the interior courtesy lamps (footwell, stepwell, and dome lamps) will light when either of the front doors or the sliding door is opened. If you have the optional Keyless Entry System the lamps will also light whenever any keypad or remote keyless entry transmitter button is pressed. One of - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 121
by pressing the switches next to the lamps. Radio For information about the radio in your vehicle, refer to the Electronic Sound Systems chapter in this owner guide. Clock Controls on Electronic Radios The electronic radios have a built-in clock. For complete operating instructions, refer to the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 122
a right turn. Move it down to signal a left turn. The corresponding indicator light in the instrument cluster will flash. The turn signal lever If the turn signal stays on after you turn, move the lever back to the center (off) position. For lane changes, move the lever far enough to signal but - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 123
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. Cornering Lights Your vehicle is equipped with special - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 124
. For example, you can set the interval so they wipe less often in light rain or more often in heavier rain. Variable interval wiper control To set the interval wipers, rotate the knob at the end of the turn for more than fifteen seconds continuously. This could damage the washer pump system. 125 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 125
risk of being involved in a collision. For information about refilling the washer fluid or replacing your windshield wiper blades, see Windshield washer fluid and Wipers in the Index. Gearshift Lever the Overdrive On/Off button, see the Driving Your Villager chapter. Gearshift lever location 126 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 126
Tilt Steering RWARNING Never adjust the steering wheel when the vehicle is moving. You could lose control of the vehicle and injure someone. Tilt release lever location To change the position of the steering column, pull the release lever on the column - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 127
s on winding or hilly roads s on slippery roads (rain, snow, ice, etc.) s in very windy areas To activate the speed control, push the main switch (CRUISE CONT. ON); the switch is located in the group of controls to the left of the steering wheel. The indicator light on the switch will come on. 128 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 128
Steering Column Controls Speed control main switch location Setting the Speed Control To set the speed control, accelerate your vehicle to the desired speed (at least 30 mph [48 km/h]), push and release the COAST/SET button on the left side of the steering wheel. The CRUISE light in the instrument - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 129
Speed control buttons on the steering wheel 130 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 130
CRUISE light in the instrument cluster will go out. If you unintentionally press the brake pedal while pushing the RESUME/ACCEL button to reset the cruising speed, press the OFF switch once and then reactivate the system by pressing the CRUISE CONT. ON switch. The speed control will automatically - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 131
the speed you desire, release the switch. s Push, then quickly release the RESUME/ACCEL button. Each time you do this, the set speed will increase by about 1 mph (1.6 km/h). To reset at a lower speed, use one of the following methods: s Lightly tap the brake pedal. When the speedometer indicates - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 132
to warn the driver. When the CRUISE indicator blinks, press the speed control OFF switch and have the system checked by your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. The CRUISE indicator light may blink if the CRUISE CONT. ON switch is pressed while pushing the RESUME/ACCEL, COAST/SET, or CANCEL buttons - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 133
refer to the Liftgate section later in this chapter. Exterior Locks To unlock the door with the key, place the key in the door lock cylinder and turn it toward the rear of the vehicle. To unlock all the doors, turn the key toward the rear of the vehicle a second time within 2-3 seconds - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 134
locked while the key is in the ignition. To lock the driver's side door, remove the key from the ignition and then use either the manual rocker switch or the door lock cylinder. Accessory Delay (If equipped) Accessory Delay is a feature that allows vehicles equipped with power windows and the power - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 135
Features Sliding Door The sliding door allows rear seat passengers to enter and exit easily. The sliding door exterior lock To lock the sliding door, push the right side of the rocker switch. To unlock the sliding door, push the left side of the rocker switch. 137 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 136
of the vehicle, pull the handle toward the rear of the vehicle. The door will stay open if you slide it all the way back until the catch at the bottom of the door engages. To release the catch and close the door, pull the handle toward the front of the vehicle. Be sure it - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 137
Features Childproof Lock for the Sliding Door Your vehicle has a childproof lock for the sliding door. If you set the childproof lock, the sliding door cannot be opened from inside the vehicle. This lock will keep children from opening the door from the inside; the door can still be opened from the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 138
located in the panels of the front doors. They control the locks on both front doors, the sliding door and the liftgate. The power door lock switch 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 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 139
Features You can manually lock and unlock the doors using the manual door locks to override the power locks. Keyless Entry System (If equipped) If you have chosen the keyless entry system option for your vehicle, you can lock or unlock the doors and liftgate without using a key. The keypad is above - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 140
does not unlock the door but is used to program your personal code into the system. Once you have programmed your personal code you will not need the permanent code again until you wish to change your personal code. The permanent code is taped to the computer module behind the center console of your - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 141
personal code, the driver's door will unlock. If the personal code you entered did not work, it may be that you entered an invalid personal code. See Valid and Invalid Codes in the previous section to select a valid personal code. NOTE: If the battery is ever disconnected, the permanent code and - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 142
of numbers; the previous personal code will be erased and replaced by the new code. Unlocking the Doors with the Keyless Entry System To unlock the driver's door, simply enter your personal code. To unlock the passenger's door and the sliding door, enter your personal code and press the 3/4 button - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 143
When the LOCK button is pushed with all the doors locked, the parking lamps flash twice and the horn chirps to confirm that the doors are already locked. Using the Panic Alarm If you are near your vehicle and feel threatened, you may activate the alarm to call attention to it. To activate the PANIC - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 144
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 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 145
COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING TWO CONDITIONS: (1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE, AND (2) THIS DEVICE MUST ACCEPT ANY INTERFERENCE RECEIVED, INCLUDING INTERFERENCE THAT MAY CAUSE UNDESIRED OPERATION. Replacement/Additional Transmitters - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 146
once. 5. To enter additional remote controllers (including the original), unlock, then lock the driver's door using the power door lock switch. 6. Press the LOCK button on a new remote transmitter. The instrument panel lights will flash twice, indicating code is entered. 7. Repeat steps 5 and - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 147
. The anti-theft indicator light will stay on for approximately 30 seconds and then flash once every 2.5 seconds. NOTE: Be sure to close all the doors completely. If the doors are not completely closed, the alarm indicator light will remain on steadily. The anti-theft system is armed only when the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 148
) to lock the doors. The remote keyless entry system is designed to work with the factory installed anti-theft system. It may not work with other anti-theft systems. Triggering the anti-theft system The armed system will be triggered if: s any door is opened without using the door key, the keyless - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 149
the doors using the keyless entry keypad (if equipped) or with the remote keyless entry transmitter (if equipped) s putting the key in the ignition and turning it to the ACC position NOTE: The flashing lights and honking horn will shut off automatically within 2 minutes 30 seconds after the system - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 150
. To make the gate swing up to the fully opened position, pull back and upward on the handle. The liftgate will not unlock if the optional also unlock the liftgate using the optional power door lock system, or the optional keyless entry system. However, it cannot be opened until you release - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 151
pull the handle on the inner trim panel downward. When you have pulled down the liftgate enough so that you can reach the license plate light shield, push the shield down and forward to close the liftgate. At this point, the liftgate is not locked. 153 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 152
The liftgate has an intermediate and a fully closed position. Make sure the liftgate is fully closed before you drive your vehicle. Locking the liftgate using the lock lever 154 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 153
window will open. The liftgate can also be locked with the optional power door locks. The liftgate area is intended only for cargo, not passengers. It passenger or driver side controls. To open the window, press down on the switch; to close the window, lift up on the switch. RWARNING Do not let - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 154
side power window controls One-Touch-Down Power Window (Included with optional power windows - driver side only) The one-touch-down power window feature allows you to completely open the driver's window without holding down the window switch. To open the window completely, press the switch down for - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 155
Features Manual Flip-Open Quarter Windows To open the flip-open quarter windows in the pushing rearward until you hear a snap. To close the windows, reverse the procedure. Manual flip-open quarter window latch location NOTE: Optional third-row power windows must be opened with the overhead console - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 156
on the overhead console. Press the indented side of the switch to open the windows; press the raised side of the switch to close the windows. Power quarter window switch Power Sunroof (If equipped) The power sunroof controls are found in the overhead console. The power sunroof operates with - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 157
, press the DOWN side of the switch. RWARNING Do not let children play with the sunroof. They may seriously hurt themselves. Remove any snow, water or other foreign matter from the sunroof before you open it. Sliding Shade The sunroof has a sliding shade you can manually open or close to block the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 158
The adjustable head restraint For more information on the seats in your vehicle, see the Adjustable Rear Seating chapter in this owner guide. 160 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 159
Features Adjusting the Front Seats Manually If you have manually adjustable front seats, you can move your seat to a new position by lifting up on the seat adjustment lever and sliding the seat to the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 160
the risk of injury to the abdomen and neck resulting from sliding under the safety belts in a collision. To recline the seatbacks: 1. Lift up the release lever and hold it up while you lean against the back of the seat. 2. When the seatback is tilted to the position you chose, release the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 161
in several directions. The driver's seat can be adjusted in six directions and the passenger's seat can be adjusted in four directions. The controls are located on the side of the seat closest to the door. The seat can be adjusted even without the key in the ignition. Six-way power seat - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 162
Six-way power seat controls Power Lumbar Support (If equipped - driver's seat) The controls for the driver's seat power lumbar support are on the side of the seat next to the door. This feature provides built-in support for the driver's lower back. Power lumbar support controls location 164 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 163
pad, push the raised end of the switch. To deflate the lumbar support pad, push the indented end of the switch. Cleaning the Seats Leather For routine cleaning, wipe the small, hidden area of fabric. If the fabric's color or texture is adversely affected by a particular cleaner, do not use it. 165 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 164
Storage Compartments Underseat Storage Compartment (If equipped) The underseat storage compartment is located underneath the front passenger seat. It can be opened by pulling it toward the instrument panel. The underseat storage compartment 166 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 165
Features Coin Tray The slide-out coin tray is located in the instrument panel for your convenience. It is located below the radio controls. Coin tray 167 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 166
Front Seat Cupholders The front seat cupholders are located on the side of the passenger's seat. Find the indented ledge and pull it down, away from the side of the seat, toward the driver's seat. When the cupholder is not in use, push the cupholders into the cover and lift the cover into its fully - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 167
may be equipped with a 12 volt power point outlet located just below the rear seat audio controls. The power point can be used in place of the cigarette lighter for optional electrical accessories. NOTE: Do not plug the cigarette lighter into the power point electrical outlet. Use the cigarette - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 168
Mirrors Close your door and adjust the 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 using the mirror controls on the instrument panel. This switch - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 169
Features Dual electric remote controlled mirrors switch Heated mirror feature (if equipped) Both power mirrors are heated whenever the rear window defroster is turned on. Do not remove ice from the mirrors - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 170
RWARNING Be sure to secure all four loops into the retainers. The cargo restrained in the net must not exceed 50 lbs. (22.5 kg) or the net may not stay secured. To remove the cargo net, remove the loops from the four retainers. The rear cargo net 172 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 171
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 located on the Safety Compliance Certification Label (located on the driver's door pillar). The four season roof rack The front and rear cross-bars can be - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 172
not use any of the buckles, tongues, or safety belt webbing to carry or move the seats. Lifting the seats seat mats, a cargo area mat, a sliding door area mat, and second and third row passenger area the seat tracks. RWARNING It is important to replace the floor mats whenever they are removed for - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 173
Floor Mats The removable floor mats Removable Floor Mats Whenever you remove the mats to remove or adjust any of the seats, always remember that the mats must be reinstalled before passengers ride in your vehicle. The floor mats are specifically designed to keep objects out of the seat tracks. Be - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 174
Adjustable Rear Seating Review the following illustrations so you will know the proper way to place the floor mats with the various seating arrangements available in your vehicle. 177 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 175
178 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 176
Adjustable Rear Seating NOTE: The step mat should be placed neatly in the cargo area when not in use. Positioning pins are included with your floor mats to secure them to the seat tracks. Push the positioning pins through the plastic loops in the floor mats and into the seat tracks. Floor mat - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 177
can remove the head restraints by pressing the adjustment button at the base of the head restraint and pulling the head restraint upward. Remember to replace them when the seat is re-installed. 180 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 178
passengers in the case of sudden braking or a collision. Two-Passenger Bench Seat NOTE: The two-passenger bench seat has a unique safety restraint system. If your vehicle has the two-passenger bench seat it is very important that the unique safety belt system is used properly. Please read the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 179
Removing the Two-Passenger Bench Seat 1. Remove the floor mats. Lift the seatback release lever and fold down the back of the seat to the fully folded position. Seatback release lever location 2. Detach the tongue from the auxiliary buckle on the side of the seat. 3. - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 180
slightly. Slide the seat rearward to release the seat from its anchor position. 5. Two people should lift the seat and remove it from the vehicle. 6. Replace any floor mats that were removed. 183 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 181
-passenger bench seat forward to the second row position, passengers riding in the seat will use the second row safety belts. Installing the Two-Passenger Bench Seat To replace the bench seat in its original position: 1. Make sure the area around the floor anchor positions is free from obstruction - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 182
the vehicle is moving. Bucket Seats (If equipped) Quick-Release Bucket Seat The quick-release bucket seat option allows the bucket seat nearest the sliding door to slide forward allowing easier entry and exit to the third-row seats. Pull up on the seat adjustment lever and slide the seat forward - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 183
quick-release bucket seat also has two levers on the back of the seat - one to fold down the seatback . When the third-row seat is moved to this position, passengers will use the second-row safety belts. To help prevent personal injury, at least two people are needed to remove the seats. Before you - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 184
Adjustable Rear Seating Folding down the seatback 2. Lift up on the two floor latch levers near the front seat legs and release the seat legs from each anchor position. 187 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 185
Removing the quick-release bucket seat 188 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 186
. Slide the seat rearward to release the seat from its anchor position. 4. Two people should lift the seat and remove it from the vehicle. 5. Replace any floor mats that were removed. NOTE: The bucket seats are not interchangeable due to the locations of the floor latch levers. Each seat must - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 187
the Removable Bucket Seats To position the bucket seats back in their original positions: 1. Make sure the area upright position. 5. Try to move the seat to be sure that it is securely fastened. 6. Replace any floor mats that were removed. Labels have been provided on the side of the seats to - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 188
and exiting the vehicle, third-row passengers must be careful that they step over the auxiliary safety restraint system that is present with the second-row bench seat. Labels are provided on the back of the second-row bench seat to remind passengers to use care when exiting. The three-passenger - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 189
Arranging the Seats for Maximum Cargo Space or Passenger Seating Flexibility NOTE: When moving the three-passenger bench seat, the seat cushion cannot be lowered unless the seat is in a seating position. If you cannot get the seat cushion to lower, you may have the seat in a storage position. NOTE: - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 190
Adjustable Rear Seating With the second row seat(s) removed, the three-passenger bench seat can be moved all the way forward, just behind the front seats for more room in the cargo area. 193 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 191
194 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 192
Adjustable Rear Seating Moving the Three-Passenger Bench Seat NOTE: When moving the three-passenger bench seat, the seat cushion cannot be lowered unless the seat is in a seating position. If you cannot get the seat cushion to lower, you may have the seat in a storage position. The three-passenger - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 193
seat in a passenger seating position. Improper location of the seat will prevent correct use of the safety belts and will increase the risk of severe injury in an accident. After sliding the seat, check that both sides of the seat are locked securely by attempting to move each side of the seat - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 194
Adjustable Rear Seating To move the seat all the way forward: 1. Lift up on the seat cushion release lever and fold up the seat cushion. Seat cushion release lever location A label describing seat operation can be found underneath the seat cushion. 197 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 195
Seat cushion label location 2. Lift up on the seat position release lever and hold while sliding the seat along the seat tracks in the floor of the vehicle. 198 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 196
Adjustable Rear Seating Sliding the three-passenger seat NOTE: When sliding the seat, be sure the middle belt tongue and buckle are fastened. This will prevent the belt from falling to the floor or becoming caught between the seat cushion and the seatback. Keep the middle seatbelt tongue and - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 197
The three-passenger seat in the fully forward locked position 200 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 198
position. Do not try to lower the seat cushion by force because doing so could damage the seat. 5. Replace any floor mats that were removed. RWARNING Every time you adjust any seat, check to be sure that it is properly latched in the lock position of both seat tracks. If the seat - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 199
Fold-Down Table-Top Seats (If equipped) The second and third row seats convert to table tops with built-in cupholders. Lift up on the seatback release lever and fold seatback forward. Seatback release lever location 202 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 200
Adjustable Rear Seating Table and built-in cupholders on the fold-down seatback RWARNING You should never place hard items such as coffee mugs or drinking glasses on the table-top seats when the vehicle is moving. Any item can become a projectile inside a vehicle involved in a collision. To help - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 201
Electronic Sound Systems Audio Systems Your vehicle has one of four audio systems depending upon which options you selected. 205 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 202
Electronic AM/FM Stereo Cassette Radio 206 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 203
Electronic Sound Systems Premium Sound Radio 207 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 204
Premium Sound Radio - CD Compatible 208 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 205
Electronic Sound Systems Supersound with CD Player 209 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 206
Controls NOTE: The antenna will be in the up position when the radio is playing and in the down position when the radio is off or if a cassette or CD (if equipped with CD changer in the position it was set at when radio power is switched back on. Selecting the AM or FM frequency band Push the "AM - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 207
Electronic Sound Systems s Using the "TUNE" button to select the tune function You change frequencies quickly, press and hold down either the right or left side of the "TUNE" button. Manual tuning adjusts your radio to any allowable broadcast frequency, whether or not a station is present on that - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 208
each station memory preset button you want to set. NOTE: If the vehicle's battery is disconnected, the Station Memory Preset buttons will need to be reset. s Using the button 1. To deactivate the Auto Memory Store mode and return to the manually-set memory button stations, simply push the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 209
Electronic Sound Systems Using the "BASS" and "TREB" buttons to adjust the tone balance the bottom of the "BAL" button to shift the sound to the left speakers. Adjusting speaker fader Fade control allows you to adjust the sound distribution between the front and rear speakers. Push the top of the " - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 210
Player Controls How to insert a tape Your cassette tape player power off will turn the audio system on. After the cassette is ejected, the audio system will turn off. Also, the . The radio will automatically begin playing until fast forward is manually stopped (by pressing "FF" button) or the end of - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 211
Systems 2. Rewinding the tape To rewind the tape, press the "REW" button. The "X" display blinks while the tape rewinds. The radio will automatically begin playing until rewind is manually press "TAPE," "CD" (if equipped), "TUNE," or "SEEK." Reversing the direction The alternate track of the tape - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 212
CD play. Also, pressing the "TAPE" button while the tape is playing pauses tape play. The "X" symbol displays to indicate there is a tape in the player. The symbol will be lit until you push the "TAPE" buton to resume tape play. Using the Dolby B noise reduction feature NOTE: Noise reduction system - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 213
Systems clean the tape player head after alternate the frequency/tape/CD (if equipped) and time in the display. In the clock mode, pressing any radio/tape/CD (if equipped) function will automatically display the radio frequency/tape/CD (if equipped) for approximately ten seconds before changing back - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 214
Ford CD Changer (If equipped) Ford CD Player The Ford Compact Disc Changer operates when the CD compatible or Supersound Audio System is on and a magazine with disc(s) is inserted. Handle the discs by their edges only. Be sure to read and follow all of the care and cleaning instructions under How - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 215
this chapter. Once a magazine is inserted, operation of the CD changer will override that of the cassette player or radio. NOTE: The volume, bass, treble, balance, and fader controls on the radio are also used with the CD changer. Slide the CD door all the way to the right. Insert the magazine into - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 216
"REW" button except in the opposite direction. How to switch discs To switch discs while in the CD mode, press the "TUNE DISCS" button. Press the left player resumes play at the beginning of the first track. Using the "SCAN" function Press the "SCAN" button to enter the scan mode. The CD changer - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 217
In this mode, the player will randomly pick a selection and play the first ten seconds. This process is continued until either the "SCAN" button or "SHUFFLE" button is pressed a second time. How to Eject the Disc Push the eject button on the lower left corner of your CD changer to stop play, eject - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 218
CD Changer and Discs To ensure the continued performance of your Ford Compact Disc Changer Compact Disc Cleaner, by wiping from the center out to the edges. Do not use changer. s Do not insert anything other than a disc into the disc changer. RWARNING The laser beam used in the compact disc player - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 219
Electronic Sound Systems Common Operating Conditions of Your CD Changer The following information is designed to help you recognize typical situations that could be mistakenly interpreted as mechanical malfunctions of the disc player. s A disc is already loaded. s The disc is inserted with the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 220
symbol (j) will appear in the display when the rear seat controls are on. Press "3" and "5" simultaneously again to turn rear seat radio controls off. How to adjust the volume Press the right (e) side of the "VOLUME" rocker switch to increase volume, and push the left (Ҁ) side to decrease - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 221
Electronic Sound Systems Using the "PROGRAM ADVANCE" button This button has different functions depending . The cycle order is as follows: AM, FM1, FM2, tape, CD (if equipped). How to turn the speakers on and off When the rear seat controls are on, push the "SPKRS, ON-OFF" button to turn all - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 222
button (̄) to decrease the volume. Using the "NEXT" button This control has different functions for each source (mode). In the radio mode, the next selection. In CD mode, the CD will move to the next track on the given disc. Common Radio Reception Conditions Several conditions affect FM reception - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 223
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 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 224
manual System At Ford Audio, 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 Ford authorized repair centers to service your problem - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 225
Driving Your Villager Automatic Transaxle Operation Putting Your Vehicle in Gear Your vehicle's gearshift lever of several positions. The steering column gearshift lever positions RWARNING Hold the brake pedal down while you move the gearshift lever from position to position. If you do not hold the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 226
also not be functional. Please refer to the chapter titled Servicing Your Villager in this Owner Guide for instructions on checking and replacing fuses. RWARNING DO NOT DRIVE YOUR VEHICLE UNTIL YOU VERIFY THAT THE BRAKELAMPS ARE WORKING. Backing Up Before shifting into or out of R (Reverse), you - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 227
Driving Your Villager Driving When to use D (Overdrive) Overdrive is the normal driving position. O/D OFF light illuminated, the transaxle will operate in first, second and third gears and will not shift into fourth gear. Operating in Drive (O/D OFF) provides more engine braking than Overdrive for - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 228
OFF indicator light is 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 Second (2) when driving on slippery roads or to provide additional engine braking on downgrades - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 229
Villager N (Neutral) In N (Neutral), the wheels of the transaxle are not locked. Your vehicle will roll freely, even on the slightest incline, unless the parking brake or brakes lifting it toward you. RWARNING Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is securely latched in - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 230
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. Never hold the steering wheel in the extreme right or - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 231
roads with severe pavement irregularities could also cause you to lose control of your vehicle. 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 a fault occurs in - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 232
mobile radio transmitting equipment installed on vehicles with the ABS system providing that the radio is installed according to the radio manufacturer's instructions. However, if you have had a mobile radio transmitter installed and the check ABS light comes on (at any time other than immediately - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 233
Driving Your Villager Applying the Brakes Apply the brake pedal evenly. Use the "squeeze" technique. Push on the brake pedal with a steadily increasing force. This allows the wheels to continue to roll while you are slowing down, which lets you steer properly. In the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 234
and injure someone. To release the parking brake, press the brake pedal with your right foot and hold it while you lift up on the parking brake release handle. RWARNING If the parking brake is fully released, but the Brake System light remains on, have the brakes checked immediately. They may not be - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 235
turning, or combinations of these maneuvers can cause a vehicle to behave differently than anticipated, especially when road conditions vary. For example, even with anti-lock brakes, extreme braking can make it difficult to control the direction of the vehicle. Use a "squeeze" technique. Push on the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 236
Motor Company recommends obeying posted speed limits. RWARNING Driving too fast for conditions creates the possibility of loss of vehicle control for braking as described in previous braking sections. s Consider using one of the lower gears. RWARNING To avoid skidding and losing control on slippery - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 237
Driving Your Villager RWARNING The Anti-Lock Brake System may not prevent brake lock-up on extremely slippery surfaces. overheat the engine, damage the transaxle, or damage the tires. Driving With a Heavy Load The Safety Compliance Certification Label, located on the driver's door pillar, provides - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 238
replacement tires may lower GVWR and GAWR limitations. 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 additional load on your vehicle's engine, transaxle, axle, brakes, tires and suspension. For - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 239
. The certification label is located on the pillar in the driver's door opening. Each 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. The following is a typical example of a Safety Compliance - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 240
the GVWR will be exceeded. The GAWR of the front and rear axles exceed the GVWR when added together. There are no numbers on the GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) s GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) s GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) s GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) Base Curb Weight The base curb - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 241
your Villager. The GVWR is the maximum allowable weight of the vehicle when 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 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 242
When passenger car tires are installed on light trucks and multipurpose passenger vehicles, they are rated at a 10% lower load carrying capacity due to the differences in vehicle usages. With the tires inflated - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 243
Driving Your Villager Calculating the Payload for Your Vehicle To know how much weight your vehicle can carry: 1. Obtain the GVWR and GAWR from your Safety Compliance Certification - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 244
Load Calculation - (Trailers) The trailer towing table shows the maximum allowable trailer weight and maximum GCWR for vehicles with and without the trailer towing package. For a particular vehicle, the allowable trailer weight may be lower depending upon the vehicle's actual gross vehicle weight. ( - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 245
Driving Your Villager Trailer towing table If your vehicle exceeds the GVWR, remove cargo from your vehicle accordingly. If your vehicle exceeds the GAWR specified on the Safety Compliance Certification Label is exceeded, your vehicle may be damaged or you may lose control and injure someone. 249 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 246
Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended gross trailer weight exceeds the limits of the vehicle and could result in engine damage, transaxle/axle damage, structural damage, loss of control, and personal injury. Preparing to Tow For your safety and for the good of your vehicle, use the right - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 247
Driving Your Villager Trailer Brakes Separate trailer brakes are required on most trailers weighing over 1,500 lbs. (680 kg). RWARNING 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 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 248
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 backing up. Back up very slowly, with someone outside at the rear of your trailer to guide - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 249
select 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 main brake pedal with - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 250
To start, after being parked on a grade: 1. Apply the main brake pedal with your foot and hold it. 2. Start the engine. 3. Shift the gearshift lever into gear and release the parking brake. 4. Release the main brake pedal and move the vehicle uphill to free the wheel chocks. 5. Apply the main - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 251
Jump-Starting Your Battery Your vehicle's battery may discharge if you leave the lights or any electrical equipment on after you turn the engine off. If this happens, you may be able to jump-start from a booster battery to start your vehicle. RWARNING The gases around the battery can explode if - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 252
the parking brake on both vehicles and stay clear of the engine cooling fan and other moving parts. 4. Check all 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 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 253
to the positive (+) terminal of the booster battery. 3. Connect one end of the second cable to the negative (Ҁ) terminal of the booster battery - NOT to the discharged battery. 4. Connect the other end of the second cable to a good metallic surface on the engine or frame of the disabled vehicle - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 254
Sequence for connecting jumper cables 258 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 255
the other end of the positive (+) cable from the discharged battery. If you need to replace your battery, see Battery in the Servicing Your Villager chapter. Changing a Flat Tire If you get a flat tire while you are driving, do not apply the brake heavily. Instead, gradually decrease the speed - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 256
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 trailer s use tire chains s try to repair the temporary spare tire or remove it from ground clearance. Your vehicle may get caught in the rails and - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 257
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 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 258
the lowered position 4. Continue to turn the hex nut counterclockwise until the spare tire retainer can be seen for removal. 5. Remove the retainer from the center of the wheel. It may be necessary to lift one end of the tire to disengage the retainer. Removing the spare tire retainer 262 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 259
the ground with the inboard side facing up. Install the retainer through the wheel center and slide over-tighten. 2. Check for proper seating against the underbody supports and retighten if gearshift lever in P (Park). Set the parking brake and block the wheel - in both directions - that - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 260
from moving when you change a tire, be sure the parking brake is set, then block (in both directions) the wheel that 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. You will - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 261
Roadside Emergencies Jack storage location 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. 265 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 262
lug nuts. Insert the tapered end of the jack handle behind the notch in the wheel cap and gently pry it off. To replace it, press it back on. You must line up the raised circle on the back of the wheel cap with the indented area on the wheel in order to press the wheel - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 263
Roadside Emergencies Removing the optional wheel cap 4. Fit the hex-shaped end of the lug wrench over the wheel lug nuts and loosen them one-half turn (counterclockwise). Do not remove the wheel lug nuts until you raise the tire off the ground. If your vehicle has the optional locking lug nuts, - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 264
The notches for the jack Placing the jack 268 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 265
engine with one wheel off the ground, such as when changing a tire. RWARNING To lessen the risk of personal injury, do not put any part of your body under the vehicle while changing a tire. Do not start the engine jack up a vehicle. NOTE: If Ford Accessory Running Boards have been installed, use the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 266
to the 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 wrench to tighten lug nuts in the appropriate sequence. Re-check for complete tightness. 270 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 267
the recess in the back of the wheel cover with one of the lug nuts. If you have the optional aluminum wheel, press the center wheel cap into place after matching up the design of the wheel cap to the wheel. 14. Make sure the jack is securely fastened. When you replace the jack in - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 268
Storing the jack 16. Make sure the lug wrench is secured back into the tool kit and store it next to the jack. 17. Unblock the wheels. Retighten the lug nuts to the specified torque at 500 miles (800 km) of operation, after any wheel change, or any time the lug nuts are loosened. 272 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 269
on how to check and reset the fuel pump shut-off switch, see Fuel pump shut-off switch in the Index. Towing Your Vehicle If you need to have your vehicle towed, contact a professional towing service or, if you are a member, your roadside assistance center. DO NOT TOW YOUR VILLAGER WITH SLINGBELT - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 270
the vehicle 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 all authorized tow truck operators. Have your tow truck driver refer to this manual for the proper hook-up and towing procedures for your vehicle. 274 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 271
Customer Assistance Roadside Assistance Ford Motor Company has set up a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week hotline with trained operators that put you in touch with the help you need if you experience a problem with your vehicle. This complimentary service is provided to you throughout your warranty period - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 272
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. Service serviced, or if you need more help than the dealer gave you, contact the Ford Customer Assistance Center - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 273
cannot answer, contact the Customer Assistance Center. To process your request, the Ford Customer Assistance Center needs the following information: s your to contact the Dispute Settlement Board (U.S. only) or the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP) in Canada. A warranty dispute must - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 274
state replacement or Motor Company reserves the right to change eligibility limitations, modify procedures and/or discontinue this service Mercury and Lincoln cars and Ford and Mercury light trucks under the new vehicle limited warranty that have not been resolved by either a dealer or Ford Motor - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 275
, see the unique brochures for California and Wisconsin purchasers/lessees. How does the Board Work? The Board consists of: s three consumer representatives s a Ford or Lincoln/Mercury dealer Consumer candidates for Board membership are recruited and trained by an independent consulting firm - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 276
license s the date of repair(s) and mileage at the time of occurrence(s) s the current mileage s the name of the dealer who sold or serviced the vehicle s a brief description of your unresolved concern s a brief summary of the action taken with the dealer and Ford Motor Company s the names (if - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 277
Customer Assistance Making a decision Board members will review all available information related to the complaint, including oral presentations, if necessary. They then arrive at a fair and impartial decision, decided by a simple majority vote. Because the Board usually meets only once a month, - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 278
of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA 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 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in Washington, D.C. area) or - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 279
-related vehicle service concern have been unsatisfactory, Ford of Canada participates in an impartial third-party mediation/arbitration program administered by the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP). The CAMVAP program is a straight-forward and relatively speedy alternative to resolve - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 280
CAMVAP services are available in all territories and provinces, except Quebec. For more information, without charge or obligation, call your CAMVAP Provincial Administrator directly at 1-800-207-0685. The CAMVAP program is a straight-forward and relative speedy alternative to resolve a disagreement - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 281
Assistance Use of leaded fuel in your vehicle without a proper conversion may damage the effectiveness of your emissions control system and may cause engine knocking or serious engine damage. Ford Motor Company is not responsible for any damage that is caused by use of improper fuel. You may also - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 282
have been designed to meet your needs and are custom-designed to complement the style and aerodynamics of your vehicle. Some of the available accessories are listed here. Safety, Comfort, and Convenience Comfort and Convenience Air Conditioning Engine Block Heater Remote Keyless Entry 287 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 283
Protection and Appearance Equipment Aero Running Boards Carpeted Floor Mats Door Edge Guards Cleaners, Waxes and Polishes Front End Cover Front End Mini Cover Lubricants (U.S. Only) Super Seal Undercoating (U.S. Only) Touch-Up Paints Flat Splash Guards Safety Equipment Vehicle Security Systems 288 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 284
) NOTE: When adding accessories, equipment, passengers, and the front or rear axle (GVWR, GAWR as 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 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 285
systems, when operated, may cause the engine to stumble or stall. In addition, such systems door openers, and other transmitters 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 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 286
292 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 287
Accessories 293 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 288
294 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 289
If your vehicle needs professional servicing, your dealership can provide the parts and service required. Check your Warranty Information Booklet to find out which parts and services are covered. Also see the Customer Assistance chapter of this Owner's Manual. Ford Motor Company recommends that the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 290
fuels, lubricants, fluids, and service parts that meet Ford Motor Company specifications. Motorcraft parts are designed and built to provide the best performance in your vehicle. Using these parts for replacement is your assurance that Ford-built quality stays in your vehicle. NOTE: Always - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 291
moving unexpectedly. WARNING Do not start your engine with the air cleaner removed and do not remove it while the engine is running. s If you must work with the engine running, avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in moving parts. Take appropriate precautions with long hair - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 292
Opening the Hood 1. Pull the hood release handle, located below the fuse panel door. Hood release handle location 2. Go to the front of the vehicle and release the hood latch under the hood in the front center of the vehicle. 298 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 293
Servicing Your Villager 3. Lift the hood and release the prop rod from its retaining clip. Place the end of the prop rod in the prop rod hole provided on the underside of the hood. The hood latch and prop rod 299 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 294
maintain smooth operation. 2. Try to lift the hood after closing it to be sure it is securely latched. Engine Compartment Your vehicle has a 3.0 liter EFI, V-6 engine. The following illustration will show a diagram of your engine and where you can find items that you should service regularly. 300 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 295
Servicing Your Villager The engine compartment 301 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 296
pressure fluid could penetrate sealed parts and assemblies causing damage or malfunctions. s In order to avoid possible cracking of the engine block or fuel injection pump, do not spray a hot engine or injection pump with cold water. s The alternator, distributor and air intake must be covered - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 297
Villager Filling the Fuel Tank Removing the tethered fuel cap 1. Open fuel door on driver's side of vehicle. 2. Follow the fuel cap removal instructions and use caution to minimize the possibility of fuel spraying when you unscrew the cap. The tethered fuel cap If you lose the fuel cap, replace - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 298
If you replace your fuel cap with an aftermarket fuel filler cap, the customer warranty may be void for any damage to the fuel tank and/or fuel system. A venting fuel tank is not an abnormal condition. It may be caused by: s too volatile a fuel for the weather conditions. Service stations sometimes - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 299
Servicing Your Villager 4. Replace the fuel cap tightly when you are finished. Turn it clockwise until you hear at least three clicks. The ratcheting mechanism allows the fuel cap to be sealed without overtightening. 5. Push the fuel door closed. Choosing the Right Fuel Use only UNLEADED FUEL. The - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 300
sometimes knocks lightly. However, if it knocks heavily under most driving conditions on the recommended octane fuel, see your dealer or a qualified service techncian to prevent any engine damage. Fuel Quality If you are experiencing starting, rough idle or hesitation problems, try a different - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 301
Servicing Your Villager Safety Information Relating to Automotive Fuels WARNING Automotive fuels blindness and possible death when swallowed. If any fuel is swallowed, call a physician or poison control center immediately. s Avoid breathing vapors while refueling. s If fuel is splashed on the skin, - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 302
because this situation may have an adverse effect on modern powertrain components. You may need to crank the engine several times 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 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 303
acceleration and excessive speed s Driving with your foot on the brake s Sudden stops s Extended engine idling s Using speed control in hilly terrain s Extended use of the A/C, defroster, rear window defroster and other accessories s Underinflated tires s Heavy loads s Aftermarket add-ons such as - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 304
API SA, SB, SC, SD, SE, SF or SG s Additional engine oil additives, oil treatments or engine treatments Engine oils with an SAE 5W-30 viscosity are PREFERRED for your vehicle. They provide the best engine performance, fuel economy and engine protection for all climates down to -15˚F (-25˚C). 310 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 305
must be warm and the vehicle must be parked on level ground. Checking the engine oil level: 1. Turn the engine off after it has warmed up and allow a few minutes for the engine oil to drain back into the oil pan. 2. Set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 306
the dipstick out again. If the oil level is below the "L" line, add engine oil as necessary. If the oil level is beyond the letter "H," engine damage or high oil consumption may occur and some oil must be removed from the engine. 7. Put the dipstick back in and make sure it is fully seated. Adding - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 307
ventilating system while refilling. 7. Refill the engine with a CERTIFIED engine oil of the preferred viscosity. Start the engine and check for leaks. Follow directions in Checking and adding engine oil to be sure the engine is filled to the proper level. WARNING Continuous contact with USED motor - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 308
check the coolant reservoir, located in the engine compartment. The coolant should stay between the MIN and MAX marks. It will be closer to MAX when the engine is warm and closer to MIN when the engine is cold. To locate the coolant reservoir, see the diagram of your vehicle's engine under Engine - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 309
, add a 50/50 mixture of engine coolant and water to the engine coolant recovery reservoir - DO NOT ADD DIRECTLY TO THE RADIATOR. Add straight water only in an emergency, but you should replace it with a 50/50 mixture of coolant and distilled water as soon as possible. Check the coolant level in the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 310
personal injury caused by escaping steam or engine coolant: 1. Before you remove the cap, turn the engine off and let it cool. 2. When the engine is cool, wrap a thick cloth around the cap and turn it slowly, counterclockwise to the first stop. 3. Step back while the pressure releases. 4. When you - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 311
in your vehicle year-round in non-extreme climates. Checking hoses Inspect all engine and heater system hoses for deterioration, leaks and loose clamps before adding or replacing engine coolant. Make whatever repairs or replacements are necessary using Motorcraft parts or their equivalents. 317 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 312
or refer to the procedure in the Service Manual. Air Filter Air filter housing The air filter should not be cleaned and reused. Replace it according to the maintenance intervals shown in the Maintenance Schedule and Record booklet. When replacing the filter, unclip the four clamps and remove the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 313
Servicing Your Villager Windshield Washer Fluid and Wipers Washer Fluid Check the level of the windshield washer fluid every time you stop for fuel, or when the warning light indicates low washer fluid. The reservoir for washer fluid is located in the engine compartment. This reservoir contains the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 314
blades, and windshield washer system. Wiper Blades Check the windshield wiper blades at least twice a year. Also check them whenever they seem your blades. To reach the wiper blades easily, turn the ignition switch to ACCESSORY and turn your wipers on. Wait for them to reach a vertical position and - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 315
Servicing Your Villager Wiper blade replacement If the wipers still do not work properly after you clean them, you may need to replace the wiper blade assembly. When replacing the wiper blade assembly always use a Motorcraft part or equivalent. To replace the wiper blades: 1. Pull the wiper arm away - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 316
the others, check the pressure in all of them. Always follow these precautions: s Keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressures. s Stay within the recommended speed limits. If you drive too fast for road conditions, you could lose control of your vehicle. Under some circumstances, driving at - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 317
Servicing Your Villager Tire Inspection and Maintenance Inspect the tire treads, and remove stones, nails, glass or other objects that may be wedged in the tread grooves. Check for holes or cuts that may permit air to leak from the tire, and make the necessary repairs. Inspect the tire sidewalls for - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 318
). If your vehicle has the optional full-size spare tire, you may rotate the spare tire could fail, causing you to lose control of the vehicle. If your vehicle has aluminum the spare tire into your vehicle's rotation pattern. Replacing the Tires Replace tires that show wear bands. When your tire - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 319
improved ride. Before you begin to repair a tire, mark the wheel and tire so that they are properly aligned when remounted. This will ensure that the tires will continue to give you the same ride level. WARNING When replacing full size tires, never mix radial, bias-belted, or bias-type tires. Use - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 320
Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 575.104 service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate. 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 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 321
braking (straight ahead) traction tests and does not include cornering (turning) traction. Temperature A B C The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire's resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 322
However, during the winter months in some climates, you may need to use snow tires and tire chains: s Make sure the chains are the right size for your tires. Use only SAE Class "S" chains. ends held down securely. Follow the chain manufacturer's instructions. s Drive slowly. If you can hear the - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 323
service as detailed below. The low-maintenance battery has removable vent caps for checking the electrolyte level and for adding water, if needed. For longer, trouble-free operation, keep the top of the battery clean and dry. Also, make certain the battery cables are tightly fastened to the battery - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 324
level between the MAX and MIN lines that are on the side of the battery (you will have to remove the battery cover to see the fill lines on the battery). Do not overfill the battery cells. When operating at ambient temperatures above 90˚F (32˚C), check the electrolyte level more frequently. If - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 325
Servicing Your Villager WARNING To protect yourself when charging a battery, always shield your face and eyes. Make sure that you can breathe fresh air. WARNING Batteries contain sulfuric acid which burns skin, eyes, and clothing. If the acid touches someone's skin, eyes, or clothing, immediately - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 326
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 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 327
Servicing Your Villager these types of fluids. Call your local recycling center to find out about recycling automotive fluids. NOTE Brake Fluid Your vehicle is equipped with a brake fluid level indicator in the master cylinder which lights the BRAKE warning light on the instrument panel when the brake - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 328
and the brake pads wear. Check the brake fluid at least once a year. You can do this by looking at the fluid level in the plastic brake fluid reservoir clean and remove the filler cap from the reservoir. Fill the reservoir to the MAX line with Ford High Performance DOT 3 Brake Fluid C6AZ-19542-AA - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 329
in the instrument cluster is near the center of the NORMAL operating temperature range. 2. While the engine idles, turn the steering wheel back and forth several times. Make sure that the cap assembly is installed at this time. 3. Then turn the engine off. 4. Check the fluid level in the power - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 330
amounts, continuously checking the level, until the fluid is between the minimum (MIN) and maximum (MAX) lines on the reservoir . Do not overfill. To find out how much fluid your vehicle's reservoir for the power steering fluid will hold, see Refill Capacities, Motorcraft Parts - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 331
Servicing Your Villager If you must check the power steering fluid when it is system from overloading. If electrical parts in your vehicle are not working, the system may have been overloaded causing a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker. Before you replace or repair any electrical parts, check - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 332
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. The instrument panel fuse panel 338 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 333
Servicing Your Villager 2. On the fuse panel cover, find the number of the fuse you want to check. The diagram on the cover tells you where to locate the fuse on the panel. The fuse panel cover 339 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 334
340 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 335
Servicing Your Villager 341 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 336
3. 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. Fuse puller tool and fuse 342 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 337
a fire. 5. Put the fuse panel cover back on. Even after you replace a fuse, it will continue to blow if you do not find what caused the overload. If the fuse continues to blow, have your electrical system checked. The following chart indicates the colors and amperage ratings of standard fuses. 343 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 338
Engine Compartment Main Fuse Panel Engine compartment main fuse panel 344 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 339
Servicing Your Villager 345 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 340
comes with instructions, we do not discuss how to check circuit breakers. If you have questions about circuit breakers or how to check them, see your Lincoln-Mercury dealer. However, you should know that the circuit breakers will reset themselves and allow the electrical parts to work again once - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 341
Your Villager If you replace a circuit breaker, use one with the same amperage rating. To remove a circuit breaker mounted by the fuse panel, grip it with your finger and thumb and pull it straight out of its socket. Relays Relays are devices which receive signals from components or systems. After - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 342
and Bulb Replacement It is a good idea to check the operation of the following lights frequently: s headlamps s high-mount brakelamp s tail lamps s brakelamps s hazard flasher s turn signals s license plate lamp The alignment of your headlamps should be checked if: s oncoming motorists frequently - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 343
out bulb unless you can immediately replace it with a new one. If a bulb is removed for an extended period of time, contaminants may enter the headlamp and affect its performance. Removing the headlamp bulb 1. Make sure that the engine is off and the headlamp switch on the instrument panel is in - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 344
The headlamp bulb assembly 3. Remove the bulb retaining ring by turning it counterclockwise 1/8 of a turn to free it from the socket. Then slide the ring off the plastic base. Keep the ring. You must use it again to hold the new bulb in place. 350 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 345
Servicing Your Villager Removing the headlamp bulb retaining ring 4. Carefully remove the bulb assembly from its socket by gently pulling 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. 351 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 346
Headlamp bulb replacement Installing the headlamp bulb 1. With the flat side of the bulb's plastic base facing upward, insert the glass end of the bulb into 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 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 347
Servicing Your Villager 4. Turn the headlamps on and make sure that they work properly. If the headlamp was correctly aligned before you changed bulbs, you should not need to align it again. Replacing the Bulbs There are several different types of replacement bulbs for your vehicle. The following - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 348
Bulb locations 354 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 349
Servicing Your Villager Bulb replacement chart 355 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 350
356 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 351
Servicing Your Villager 357 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 352
358 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 353
Servicing Your Villager 359 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 354
360 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 355
Servicing Your Villager 361 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 356
. To make sure that the catalytic converter and the other emission control parts continue to work properly: s Use only unleaded fuel. s Avoid running out of fuel. s Never turn off the ignition while your vehicle is moving, especially at high speeds. s Have the services listed in your Maintenance - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 357
of the engine or exhaust system. 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 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 358
system. If the vehicle's powertrain system or its battery has just been serviced, the OBD II system is reset to a not ready for I/M testing condition additional driving required by law, a service center can perform this drive cycle as it would any other type of repair work. OBD II Drive Cycle The - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 359
Servicing Your Villager 1. Start the engine. Drive or idle (in neutral) the vehicle for 4 minutes. 2. Idle for 5 minutes at varying speeds between 45 and 60 mph (70-100 km/h). 10. Bring the vehicle back to idle. Idle in Drive for 40 seconds. 11. OBD II drive cycle has been completed. Vehicle can - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 360
Refill Capacities, Motorcraft Parts, and Lubricant Specifications 366 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 361
Servicing Your Villager Motorcraft Parts 367 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 362
Lubricant Specifications 368 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 363
metal to prevent rust. s Cover chrome and stainless steel parts with a thick coat of auto wax to prevent discoloration. Re-wax as necessary when your vehicle is washed. s Lubricate all hood, door and trunk lid hinges and latches with a light grade oil. s Cover interior soft trim to prevent fading - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 364
protect the fuel system's inner surfaces from corrosion. Follow the instructions packaged with the product. Cooling 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 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 365
Servicing Your Villager Brakes s Make sure the brakes and parking brake are fully released. Tires s Maintain recommended air pressure. Miscellaneous s Make sure all linkages, cables, levers and clevis pins under the vehicle are covered with grease to prevent rust. s Lubricate working parts to - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 366
372 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 367
Quick Index 375 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 368
Front Exterior View 376 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 369
Quick Index Rear Exterior View 377 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 370
Entrance View 378 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 371
Quick Index Driver's Door 379 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 372
Instrument Panel 380 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 373
Quick Index Instrument Cluster - Standard 381 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 374
Instrument Cluster - Electronic 382 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 375
Quick Index Cargo Compartment 383 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 376
Engine Compartment 384 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 377
Index A ABS warning light (see Anti-lock brake system) Accessory position on the ignition...Additives, engine oil ...Air bag supplemental restraint system and child safety seats ...description ...driver air bag ...indicator light...operation ...passenger air bag ...proper seating ...service and - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 378
...servicing ...voltage gauge ...when storing your vehicle ...Brake fluid brake warning light ...checking and adding ...description ...specifications ...Brakes adjustment ...anti-lock ...anti-lock brake system (ABS) warning light applying the brakes ...brake warning light ...fluid, checking and - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 379
for children (see Child safety seats) Catalytic converter ...Chains, tires...Changing a tire ...Charging system warning light ...Childproof locks ...Child safety restraints ...child safety belts ...child safety seats ...Child safety seats and air bags ...attaching with tether straps ...automatic - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 380
parts ...polishing ...rustproofing ...safety belts ...tail lamps ...upholstery and interior trim ...washing ...waxing...wheels ...Climate control system air conditioning ...heating...Clock...Clutch, fluid reservoir ...Cold engine starting ...Combination lap and shoulder belts . Controls instrument - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 381
) . Daytime running light system . . Defrost, windshield ...Dipstick automatic transaxle fluid ...engine oil ...power steering fluid ...Disabled vehicle (see Towing)...Dispute Settlement Board...Doors door ajar warning light ...lubricant specifications ...Driving under special conditions bad weather - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 382
...battery acid spills ...fuel ...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 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 383
:electronic Engine fan ...Engine:idle speed control ...Engine oil changing oil and oil filter ...checking and adding ...dipstick ...disposal ...engine oil pressure warning light ...filter, specifications ...specifications ...synthetic oil ..."break-in" oils ...viscosity ...Entry system, illuminated - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 384
Fuel cap removing...replacing ...Fuel filler door ...remote release ...Fuel filter, specifications ...Fuel gauge ...Fuel pump shut-off switch engine does not start ...starting after a collision ...Fuse panels engine compartment...instrument panel ...Fuses charts ...checking and replacing ...circuit - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 385
cap) ...Gas mileage (see Fuel economy) . . Gasoline (see Fuel)...Gauges, Electronic engine coolant temperature gauge fuel gauge ...odometer ...speedometer ...Gauges, Mechanical engine coolant temperature gauge fuel gauge ...odometer ...speedometer ...tachometer ...trip odometer ...GAWR (Gross Axle - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 386
daytime running lights ...high beam ...replacing bulbs ...warning chime ...Head restraints ...Heating, manual heating and air High beams indicator light ...operation...Hitch...Hood latch location ...lubrication specifications ...release lever ...working under the hood...conditioning ...system ...112 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 387
entry system locking and unlocking doors programming entry code. . Keys key in ignition chime ...positions of the ignition . . removing from the ignition stuck in lock position ...144 143 58 57 58 57 L Lamps bulb replacement specifications chart checking ...daytime running light system ...hazard - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 388
, warning and indicator air bag ...anti-lock brakes (ABS) ...brake ...charging system ...check engine ...door ajar ...engine oil pressure ...hazard warning light ...high beam ...low fuel ...oil pressure...rear ABS ...safety belt ...turn signal indicator...Load limits GAWR ...GVWR ...trailer towing - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 389
brake operation ...warning light ...Parts (see Motorcraft Parts) . . PCV valve, specifications ...Power door locks ...Power features door locks ...mirrors ...windows ...Power steering dipstick ...driving with power steering fluid, checking and adding . fluid, specifications ...servicing ...Prop - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 390
...washer reservoir ...Relays ...Remote entry system, illuminated entry Restraints, safety (see . 22 . 9 . 31 . 31 . 9 159 9, 11 S Safe driving tips...Safety belts (see Safety restraints) ...Safety Compliance Certification Label . . Safety information relating to automotive Safety restraints - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 391
maintenance ...proper use ...replacement...warning light and chime ...Safety seats for children ...and air bags ...attaching with tether straps ...automatic locking mode (retractor) ...in front seat ...in rear outboard ...in rear seat ...tether anchorage hardware ...Seat belts (see Safety restraints - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 392
your vehicle . . starting a cold engine ...starting after a collision ...Steering, power ...Steering wheel locking...speed controls ...Storage compartments cargo net ...map pockets ...Storing your vehicle ...Supplemental air bag readiness light Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) ... 367 239 368 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 393
truck ...Trailer Towing ...Trailer towing tips ...trailer brakes ...trailer lamps ...Transaxle automatic operation ...fluid, checking and adding (automatic) lubricant specifications ...Transaxle control switch ...Trip odometer ...Turn signal indicator lights ...lever ...324, 324, ...322 324 323 328 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 394
Climate control) Viscosity (see Engine oil)...Voltmeter (see Battery voltage gauge) ... W Warning chimes headlamps on ...key in ignition ...safety belt ...Warning lights (see Lights -theft lugnuts ...cleaning ...inspection and maintenance ...lug nuts ...replacement ...77 58 70 67 228 . 4 319 319 319 - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 395
Index Windows power windows, operating ...Windshield, washing ...Windshield washer fluid and wipers checking and adding fluid ...checking and replacing wiper blades liftgate reservoir...operation ...reservoir ...specifications ...variable interval wipers ...Windshield wipers and washer ...Wrecker - 1996 Mercury Villager | Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 396
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