1997 Mercury Cougar Owner's Manual
1997 Mercury Cougar Manual
1997 Mercury Cougar manual content summary:
- 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 1
- 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 2
- 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 3
Sound Systems ...25 Controls and Features ...59 Seating and Safety Restraints ...103 Starting ...145 Driving ...151 Roadside Emergencies ...171 Maintenance and Care ...201 Capacities and Specifications ...253 Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only) ...261 Customer Assistance ...263 Accessories ...275 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 4
to detail. In short, excellence means being the standard by which others are judged. Our Guiding Principles u Quality comes first. For your satisfaction, the quality of our products and services must be our number one priority. work must be done with you in mind, providing better products and - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 5
and commands respect for its integrity and for its positive contributions to society. Things to Know About Using This Guide Congratulations on the purchase of your new vehicle. This guide has information about the equipment and the options for your new vehicle. You may not have bought all of - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 6
designed the Index so that you can find information under a technical term. Canadian Owners - French Version French 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. 3 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 7
numbers on the first page of this Owner's Guide. Ford Extended Service Plan More Protection for Your Vehicle You can get more protection for your new car or light truck by purchasing a Ford Extended Service Plan (Ford ESP). Ford ESP is the only extended service program with the Ford name on it and - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 8
optional service contract, backed and administered by Ford. It provides: u protection against repair costs after your Bumper to Bumper Warranty and-mileage combinations. Each plan can be tailored to fit your own driving needs, including reimbursement benefits for towing and rental. (In Hawaii, rules - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 9
, you should take these steps: The break-in period for new brake linings lasts for 100 miles (160 km) of city driving or 1,000 miles (1,600 km) of highway driving. u Use only the type of engine oil that Ford recommends. See Engine oil recommendations in the Index. Do not use special "break-in - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 10
Instrumentation The instrument panel 7 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 11
The instrument panel (dashboard) on your vehicle is divided into several different sections. The illustrations on the following pages show the major parts of the instrument panel that are described in this chapter. Some items shown may not be on all vehicles. In your vehicle, the warning lights and - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 12
Mechanical cluster 9 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 13
shortly after the engine starts and you release the parking brake. If the light stays on after you have fully released the parking brake, have the hydraulic brake system serviced. RWARNING The BRAKE light indicates that the brakes may not be working properly. Have the brakes checked immediately. 10 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 14
by a qualified service technician. Normal braking is not affected unless the brake warning light is also lit. The Anti-Lock Brake System has self-check capabilities. As previously described, the system turns on the anti-lock light each time you start your engine. After the engine is started and - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 15
, 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 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 16
have the system serviced at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer immediately. The air bag readiness light Low Coolant Light This light tells you that light comes on for a few seconds when your ignition key is turned to start, but should turn off when the engine starts. If this light stays on, check - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 17
you need to have the electrical system checked. The charging system light This light illuminates every time you turn the ignition to the ON or START position (engine off). The light should go off when the engine starts and the alternator begins to charge. If the light stays on or illuminates when - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 18
or if the light flashes when you are driving, have your vehicle serviced at the first opportunity. If this condition persists, damage could occur to the transmission. Traction Assist Off Indicator The traction assist off indicator This light comes on when the Traction Assist system has been - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 19
high beam light Service Engine Soon Warning Light This light illuminates when the engine's Emission Control System requires service. It will also illuminate when the ignition key is in the ON position and the engine is off. The service engine soon warning light Anti-Theft Alarm Light (If equipped - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 20
indicator light Cruise Control Indicator Light This light comes on when the cruise control system is actively maintaining the set speed. It will go off when the brakes are used or if the cruise control is turned off. The cruise control indicator light This light does not indicate any problems but - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 21
glows when the key is in the ON position. The door ajar light Engine Oil Pressure Light This light indicates the engine oil pressure, not the oil level. However, if your engine's oil level is low, it could affect the oil pressure. The light should come on every time your ignition key is turned to - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 22
of the oil level. Contact your nearest dealer for service as soon as possible. 4. For more information about adding oil, see Adding engine oil in the Maintenance and Care chapter of this guide. Low Fuel Light This light comes on when your fuel gauge indicates approximately 1/8 to 1/16 of a tank - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 23
turn on the windshield washers. The washer fluid low light Fuel Gauge The fuel gauge The fuel gauge displays approximately how much fuel is in the fuel tank only when the ignition switch is ON. For proper fuel gauge indication after adding fuel, turn the ignition switch OFF while refueling the - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 24
fuel gauge indicator may drift from the ignition switch ON position. Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge This gauge indicates the temperature of the engine (cold) mark into the normal band as your engine coolant warms up. Under normal driving conditions, the pointer should stay in the normal band. - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 25
the road as soon as safely possible. Turn off the engine. Let the engine cool. DO NOT REMOVE COOLANT SYSTEM FILL CAP UNTIL THE ENGINE IS COOL. Check the coolant level following the instructions on checking and adding coolant to your engine, see Engine Coolant in the Index. If you do not follow these - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 26
odometer. Simply set the trip odometer to zero by pressing the reset control firmly when beginning the distance you wish to measure. Since the trip The tachometer displays the approximate engine revolutions per minute (rpm), or how fast the engine is running. You can drive your vehicle at most rpm - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 27
Electronic Sound Systems Compact Disc Radio 25 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 28
the Ford Compact Disc Player. Using the Controls on Your New Compact Disc Radio Most of the features of this unit work for both radio and CD operation. Also, some of the knobs and buttons control several different functions, so be sure to read all of the operating instructions carefully. How to - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 29
How to tune radio stations There are four ways for you to tune in a particular station. You can manually locate the station using the "SCAN/TUNE" button, "SEEK" the station, "SCAN" to the station or select the station by using the memory buttons, which you - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 30
u Using the "SEEK" function This feature on your radio allows you to automatically select listenable stations up or down the frequency band. Press the top a half of the "SEEK" button to select the next listenable station up the frequency band. Press the bottom b half of the button to select the next - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 31
especially helpful while traveling. Your radio will automatically set your memory buttons to the strong local stations so you don't have to continually manually tune to existing stations. Activate Auto Memory Store by pushing the "AUTO PRESET" button once. Your radio will set the first five strong - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 32
been filled, the radio will begin playing the station stored on memory button 1. To deactivate the Auto Memory Store mode and return to the manually-set memory button stations (or those stations set using Auto Memory Load), simply push the "AUTO PRESET" button. Display will show "AUTO" then "OFF - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 33
(left to right, front to rear). Using the Controls on Your New Compact Disc Player Your new Ford Compact Disc Player is capable of playing 12 cm or 8 cm discs, without an adapter. The player operates when the power is on and a disc is inserted (label side up). Handle the disc by its edge only - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 34
on the radio are also used with the CD player. Refer to earlier operating instructions on these controls. How to insert a disc and begin play Insert one disc, label side up into the disc opening. When inserted, the disc automatically loads into the unit and play starts at the beginning of the first - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 35
key is turned OFF during play and then is set to the ON or ACCESSORY position, the CD player will resume playing in the mode it was in ) or the "REV" button (to reverse). While either button is pressed, the disc goes forward or backward at two different speeds depending on how long the button is - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 36
into pause mode. Push the "PLAY/STOP" button to begin playing the first track of the disc, press the "REV" button to back up from the end of the disc, or use the "SEEK" function to locate a desired track. Using the "SCAN" function Press the "SCAN/TUNE" button to enter the scan mode - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 37
ejected due to a "focus error" (disc inserted upside down). In this case, the disc will not be automatically reloaded. How to eject the disc Push the "EJECT" button to stop play, eject the disc and resume radio operation of your audio system. NOTE: You can eject the disc while the radio power and/or - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 38
Electronic Stereo Radio with Cassette 36 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 39
Radio Using the Controls on Your New Radio alternate between AM, FM1 and FM2. These functions are used with the station memory buttons described under How to tune radio stations. How to tune radio stations There are four ways for you to tune in to a particular station. You can manually locate - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 40
left b side of the "SEEK" button. To change frequencies quickly, press and hold down either the right or left side of the "SEEK" button. Manual tuning adjusts your radio to any allowable broadcast frequency, whether or not a station is present on that frequency. (See All About Radio Frequencies in - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 41
u Setting the Station Memory Preset buttons Your radio is equipped with 6 station memory buttons. These buttons can be used to select up to 6 preset AM stations and 12 FM stations (6 in FM1 and 6 in FM2). Follow the easy steps below to set these buttons to the desired frequencies: 1. 2. Select a - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 42
control fader Fade control allows you to adjust the sound distribution between the front and rear speakers. Push to the front speakers, and push the left ( ) side to shift the sound to the rear speakers. fader functions (left to right, front to rear). Using the Controls of Your Cassette Tape Player - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 43
How to locate a desired track on the tape NOTE: The tape track or side number indicated in the display does not necessarily correspond to the tape track or - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 44
u Using the Automatic Music Search ("AMS") (if your display shows arrows) Press and hold the "AMS" button. Then, push the appropriate fast-wind button, depending upon the direction of the tape travel arrow in the display. For example, if the tape travel arrow is pointing to the left, push the left h - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 45
How to change the side of the tape being played The alternate track (other side) of the tape can be selected at will resume playing. Using the Dolby B noise reduction feature NOTE: Noise reduction system manufactured under license from Dolby Labs Licensing Corporation. "Dolby" and double-D symbol - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 46
u Protect cassettes from exposure to direct sunlight, high humidity and extreme heat or cold. If they are exposed to extreme conditions, allow them to reach a moderate temperature before playing. before playing by putting your finger or a pencil into one of the holes and turning the hub - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 47
High-Level Audio System 45 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 48
High-Level Audio System Using the Controls on Your New Radio How to turn the radio on and off /store cassette tape (when in cassette mode). Pushing the button more than once will alternate between AM, FM1 and FM2. These functions are used with the station memory buttons described under How to - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 49
four ways for you to tune in a particular station. You can manually locate the station using the "SCAN/TUNE" button, "SEEK" the press and hold down either the right or left side of the "SEEK" button. Manual tuning adjusts your radio to any allowable broadcast frequency, whether or not a station - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 50
u Using the "SCAN" function Pressing the "SCAN/TUNE" button once enters the scan mode (display will indicate "SCN"). Pushing the right a side of the "SEEK" button will begin the scan mode up the frequency band, stopping on each listenable station for approximately a five-second sampling. Pushing the - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 51
especially helpful while traveling. Your radio will automatically set your memory buttons to the strong local stations so you don't have to continually manually tune to existing stations. Activate Auto Memory Store by pushing the "AUTO PRESET" button once. Your radio will set the first five strong - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 52
deactivate the Auto Memory Store mode and return to the manually-set memory button stations (or those stations set using ( ) side to decrease treble (less "highs"). u Adjusting speaker balance Balance control allows you to adjust the sound distribution between the right and left speakers. Push the - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 53
: Illuminated bars in the display show relative levels of bass and treble, and positions of speaker balance and fader functions (left to right, front to rear). Using the Controls of Your Cassette Tape Player NOTE: Radio power must be on to use the cassette tape player or eject a tape. NOTE: Adjust - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 54
desired track on the tape There are four ways to quickly locate a desired selection on the tape. You can use the fast tape, press the "FF" button. The radio will automatically begin playing until fast forward is manually stopped (by pushing the "PLAY PROG" button) or the end of the tape is reached. - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 55
scan mode on the presently sampled tape selection, press the "SCAN/TUNE" button again. u How to change the side of the tape being played The alternate side of the tape can be selected at any time by pressing the "PLAY/PROG" button. How to eject the tape To stop the tape - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 56
the Dolby B noise reduction feature NOTE: Noise reduction system manufactured under license from Dolby Labs Licensing Corporation. "Dolby diagnose certain problems you may experience. Error codes are as follows: Error 0 - Communication error between the radio controller and the tape controller. The - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 57
to eject the tape. If the tape doesn't eject, refer the problem to qualified personnel for service. Tips on Caring for the Cassette Player and Tapes In order and extreme heat or cold. If they are exposed to extreme conditions, allow them to reach a moderate temperature before playing. lodged in - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 58
Common Radio Reception Conditions Several conditions prevent FM reception from being completely clear and noise-free, such as the following: 1. Distance/Strength The strength of the FM signal is directly related - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 59
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 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 60
area. This radio will tune to each of these frequencies using manual tune and no fine tuning is necessary as radio stations may not is not an allowable FM broadcast frequency. Important Warranty and Service Information u Warranty Your sound system is warranted for three years or 36,000 miles (60 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 61
a manual heating and air conditioning system u a semi-automatic temperature control The Manual Heating and Air Conditioning System You can heat the inside of your vehicle, defrost the windshield, and turn on the air conditioning with the three controls in the center of the instrument panel: u FAN - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 62
The controls for the manual heating and air conditioning system To heat the interior of your vehicle, turn the SELECT control to FLOOR, turn the TEMP control to the end of the red range (full right) and turn the FAN control to HI. Temperature and fan speed can be adjusted as desired. To defrost the - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 63
as MAX A/C which uses recirculated air. To ventilate your vehicle with outside air, during mild weather, turn the SELECT control to PANEL, turn the TEMP control for the temperature desired and set the FAN control to the speed desired. Under normal conditions, the SELECT control should be left in any - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 64
and fan speed will be automatically controlled to bring the vehicle to the desired set temperature, as fast as possible, and then gradually be changed to maintain that temperature. The system also gives you the capability of manually adjusting the location of the discharge air and fan speed - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 65
Metric, set the control to MAX A/C and the Fan to HI. Simultaneously press the WARM, COOL, and OUTSIDE TEMP controls for 3/4 of a second, then release. Repeat this procedure to change the display back to English. Digital display The temperature you select for your driving comfort is displayed here - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 66
System Operation To heat the inside of your vehicle, turn the SELECT control to FLOOR and turn the FAN control to AUTO. The fan will remain off until the engine reaches operating temperature or until 3-1/2 minutes have elapsed. As the interior of your vehicle warms up, the discharge air temperature - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 67
panel registers. If the interior of your vehicle is very warm, drive for the first few minutes with the windows open. This will force the hot, stale air out and allow the air conditioning to work faster. To cool your vehicle with outside air, turn the SELECT control to A/C and turn the FAN control - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 68
window. The control for the rear window defroster is located on the lower right side of the instrument panel, just left of the climate control panel. The control for the rear window defroster Clear away any snow that is on the rear window before using the defroster. With the engine running, push - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 69
parking brake. NOTE: If you have a vehicle with an automatic lighting system, the DRL system is active until the automatic system driving. NOTE: You may notice that the lights flicker when the vehicle is turned on or off. This is a normal condition. RWARNING The Daytime Running Light (DRL) system - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 70
Lights To turn on the headlamps, parking lamps, side markers, license plate lamps and tail lamps, use the rotary control that is to the left of the steering wheel. The knob that controls . For more information about how the high beams work, see the high beam section later in this chapter. 68 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 71
open when the parking lamps or headlamps are on. The chime sounds until you close the door, turn off the lamps or turn the ignition to the ON position. Setting the Autolamp Delay System (If equipped) The autolamp sets the headlamps to turn on and off automatically. You can use the autolamp - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 72
lamps on and off for you. 2. 3. 4. 5. Do not put any articles on top of the photocell that is located in the top right corner of the instrument panel. This photocell controls the autolamp. If you cover it, the photocell reacts as if it is nighttime, and the lamps turn on. To turn the autolamp - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 73
Instrument Panel Manual operation With the light control in the parking lamps or the headlamps position, you can brighten or dim the lights in the instrument panel. To do this, use the thumbwheel to the left of the steering wheel. This wheel also turns on the interior lights with the light control - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 74
desired minute appears, release the button. 2. Using the Remote Control for the Trunk (If equipped) With the ignition switch in the ON or ACC position, you can use the remote control under your console armrest to unlock and open the trunk. The trunk release button located under the armrest 72 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 75
you to shut off the engine and all accessories without locking the steering wheel or the automatic transmission gearshift lever. ON allows you to test your vehicle's warning lights (except the brake system warning light) to make sure they work before you start the engine. The key returns to the - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 76
the key is stuck in the LOCK position, move the steering wheel left or right until the key turns freely. If the driver's door is open while the key is still in the ignition, a warning chime sounds. RWARNING Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 77
Beams To turn on the high beams, turn the headlamp control knob to the headlamp ON position and push the turn signal lever away from you until it latches. When the high beams are ON, the high beam indicator light on the instrument panel comes on. To turn off the high beams, pull - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 78
Flashing the Lights To flash the headlamps, pull the lever toward you for a moment and then release it. The headlamps will flash whether the headlamp knob is in - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 79
to HI, LO, or the interval setting selected. If the washer does not work, check the washer fluid level and fill it if it is low. See the time for more than 15 seconds continuously. This could damage the washer pump system. RWARNING Always warm up the windshield with the defroster before you - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 80
Hazard Flasher The hazard flasher serves as a warning to other drivers to be careful when approaching or passing your vehicle. The control for the hazard flashers 78 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 81
Horn To sound the horn, push the center pad area of the steering wheel. The horn on the steering wheel 79 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 82
Tilt Steering RWARNING Never adjust the steering wheel when the vehicle is moving. The lever to tilt the steering wheel To change the position of the steering wheel, pull the release lever on the column toward you. Tip the steering wheel to the desired position. Release the lever to lock the - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 83
programmed set speed will be erased. To Turn Speed Control On u Press ON To Set a Speed Press SET ACCEL. For speed control to operate, the speed control must be ON and the vehicle speed must be greater than 30 mph (48 km/h). If you drive up or down a steep hill, your vehicle speed may - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 84
faster than the set speed while driving on a downhill in j (Overdrive), you may want to shift to the next lower gear to reduce your vehicle's speed. If your vehicle slows down more than 10 mph (16 km/h) below your set speed on an uphill, your speed control will disengage. This is normal - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 85
Disengage Speed Control u Depress the brake pedal. Disengaging the speed control will not erase the previously programmed set speed. To Return to a Set Speed u Press RESUME. For RESUME to operate, the vehicle speed must be faster than 30 mph (48 km/h). Indicator Light (If equipped) Lights when - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 86
Map lamp (with optional moon roof) Front seat map and dome lamps (without optional moon roof) The dual beam map lamps are located on each side of the dome lamp. Each map lamp can be turned on by the switches on the lamp. 84 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 87
) You can move the moon roof back to open the glass panel, or you can tilt it up to ventilate the vehicle. The rocker type control is used to open and close the moon roof. You must press and hold the control until the desired position is reached. At fully open and closed - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 88
stop. To tilt the moon roof into vent position when the glass panel is closed, press the front portion of the control. To close from vent position, press and hold the rear portion of the control. Occasionally wiping the outside guide rail covers of the moon roof with a clean cloth will help keep the - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 89
seriously hurt themselves. Sliding Shade The moon roof has a sliding shade that you can manually open or close to block the sun when the glass panel is shut. To close the sliding shade, pull the shade toward the front of the vehicle. The shade automatically opens and locks when the moon roof is - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 90
hills and curves. To turn the mirror on, push the ON/OFF switch, located on the bottom of the mirror, to latch it in the ON position. /OFF switch again. The electronic mirror measures the brightness of the light coming in from the rear of the vehicle. It automatically makes a correction in the glare - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 91
that detects rear glare is located inside a widow in the center of the mirror. The second light sensor which determines outside light level is located on the Mirror Light on the Sun Visors (If equipped) To turn on the visor mirror light, lift the mirror cover. The mirror on the sun visor - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 92
power door locks, the controls to lock the doors are on the trim panel of the front door. When you close the doors after you set the door locks, the doors remain locked. If the power mechanism fails, the manual door locks will override the power controls. Pulling on a front inside door handle will - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 93
the Illuminated Entry System (If equipped) The interior lights turn on when you lift the outside door handle on the driver's side door or when you press UNLOCK, TRUNK, or PANIC on a programmed remote entry transmitter if your vehicle is equipped with remote entry. These lights automatically turn off - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 94
Windows Using the Power Windows Each door has a power control that opens and closes the window on that door. The driver's door has a master control panel that operates the windows. Power windows can only be opened or closed when the ignition switch is in the ON or ACC position. RWARNING Do - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 95
is located on the driver's door. Do not clean the housing or glass of any mirror with harsh abrasives, fuel or other petroleum-based cleaning products. The mirror controls on the driver's door To adjust the side mirrors: 1. 2. 3. 4. Find the control switch in the driver's door panel. Select - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 96
the lanes on your right and behind you. RWARNING The right side view mirror makes objects appear smaller and farther away than they actually are. Console Your vehicle has a full console. The full console has the features shown in the illustration below. The features on the full - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 97
Positive Location Floor Mat When installing or removing the driver's side floor mat you must attach/detach the positive location grommet from the hook on the floor. The hook is just forward of the left hand track of the driver's seat. The positive location floor mat hook 95 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 98
Anti-Theft Alarm System (If equipped) When armed, this system helps protect your vehicle against break-ins or theft. When an unauthorized entry occurs, the system triggers and will: u flash the parking lamps, and alarm indicator lamp u honk the horn u disable the starting circuit to prevent the - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 99
will start flashing to remind you to arm the system. Lock the doors by using the power door lock switch or by pressing the remote entry transmitter LOCK control. The alarm indicator will now glow steadily. 4. Close all doors. The alarm indicator light will then remain on steadily for approximately - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 100
from ignition. Close all of the doors. Press the remote entry transmitter LOCK control. The alarm indicator will come on for 30 seconds to show the alarm is arming and then turn off to show that the alarm has armed. The anti-theft system is designed to work with the factory installed remote entry - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 101
Disarming a Triggered System The alarm can be disarmed by: u unlocking a front door with the key u using the UNLOCK control on the remote entry transmitter NOTE: The flashing lights and honking horn will shut off automatically within 2 minutes 45 seconds after the system is triggered. It will - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 102
press the TRUNK control. Locking the doors To lock all the doors, press the LOCK control. If you would like a signal that the doors are being locked, press the LOCK control again within five seconds. The doors will lock again and the horn will beep. Activating the remote personal alarm If you wish - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 103
, TRUNK or PANIC controls, the illuminated entry system turns on the interior lights for 25 seconds. You can turn these lights off with the LOCK control or by turning the ignition to the RUN position. The interior lights will not turn off if you have turned them on manually or if a door is open - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 104
TAKE THE FRONT PART OF THE system will work with up to four remotes). Return your existing remotes to your dealer so the remote entry system can be reprogrammed with your new and existing remotes. THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING TWO CONDITIONS - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 105
Seating and Safety Restraints Seats Head Restraints If you use them properly, head restraints will help protect your head and neck in a collision. A head restraint helps protect you best if you position it behind your head and not behind your neck. Standard head restraints You can adjust the head - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 106
the seat in its new position. Make sure the seat locks securely in place. The front seat adjustment bar To recline the front manual seats: 1. 2. 3. On the side of the seat, find the handle for the recliner. Lift the handle up and hold it in place. Lean against the back of the seat and adjust - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 107
when the vehicle is moving. RWARNING Always drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lap belt snug and low across the hips. Seatback Recline Front seatback release levers It is not necessary to use the emergency seatback release lever for rear seat entry or exit. The seatback remains - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 108
RWARNING Check to see that the seat and seatback are latched securely in position. Keep floor area free of objects that would . Using the Power Seats (If equipped) If your vehicle has power seats, you can adjust them in several directions. The controls are on the side of the seats. The power - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 109
Sport Seat (If equipped) Sport seat controls 107 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 110
on the lap belt is designed to allow rear seat entry/exit. To enter the rear seat: 1. 2. 3. Rotate the safety belt boot rearward. Enter the rear seat in front of the safety belt. Rotate the safety belt boot forward to allow use by the front seat passengers. Important Safety Belt Information The use - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 111
sound. See Safety Belt Warning Light and Chime in the Instrumentation chapter. See the following sections in this chapter for directions on how to properly use these safety belts. Also see Safety Restraints for Children in this chapter for special instructions about using safety belts for children - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 112
collision. RWARNING Lock the doors of your vehicle before driving to lessen the risk of the door coming open in a collision. Combination Lap and Shoulder Belts While your vehicle is in motion, the combination lap and shoulder belt adjusts to your movement. However, if you brake hard, corner hard or - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 113
seat combination lap and shoulder belt Fastening the rear seat combination lap and shoulder belt NOTE: Be sure to read and understand Important Safety Belt Information in this chapter. Safety Belts for the Front Passenger Outboard Seating Positions Your vehicle is equipped with a dual locking - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 114
mode, the shoulder belt retractor will allow the occupant freedom of movement, locking tight only on hard braking, hard cornering or belt fit on the occupant. u Child seat or infant carrier installation restraint. RWARNING Rear-facing child seats or infant carriers should never be placed in the front - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 115
retract completely, the retractor will switch back to the vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking mode. See the detailed instructions under Safety Seats for Children in this chapter. Safety Belts with Locking Cinch Tongue for Rear Outboard Seating Positions Your vehicle is equipped with safety seat - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 116
slide the tongue upward. Provide enough lap belt length so that the tongue can reach the buckle. NOTE: If you grasp the tongue by the tongue cover to lengthen the belt, the tongue cover will grab the webbing, making it difficult to slide. Adjusting the cinch tongue rear combination lap and shoulder - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 117
the outside shoulder only. Never wear the shoulder belt under the arm. 2) Never swing it around your neck over the inside shoulder. 3) Never use a single belt for more than one person. Due to folding rear seats, sometimes the buckles and tongues toward the center of the vehicle may be hidden by the - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 118
belt will become locked and help reduce your forward movement. To unfasten all the belts: 1. Push the release button on the end of the buckle. This allows the tongue to unlatch from the buckle. Unfastening the front outboard lap/shoulder belts Unfastening the rear outboard lap/shoulder belts - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 119
the tongue to its stowed position. If you do not guide the tongue, it may strike you or part of the vehicle. Lap Belts - Rear Center Seating Positions The lap belt in the center of the rear seat does not adjust automatically. You must adjust it to fit snugly and as low as possible around your hips - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 120
Unfastening center rear seat lap belt Safety Belt Extension Assembly For some people, the safety belt may be too short even when it is fully extended. You can add about eight inches (20 cm) to the belt length with a safety belt extension assembly (part number 611C22). Safety belt extensions are - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 121
Air Bag Precautions Your vehicle is equipped with a supplemental restraint system designed to work with the safety belts to help protect you and your right front seat passenger in the event of a collision. The Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System is primarily designed to reduce certain upper body - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 122
near the air bag covers that may come into contact with an inflating air bag. Failure to follow these instructions may increase the risk of personal injury in the event of a collision. RWARNING Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the air bag Supplemental Restraint System or its fuses. See - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 123
safety belts. Failure to follow these instructions may increase the risk of personal injury in the event of a collision. RWARNING Rear-facing child seats and infant carriers should never be placed in the front seats. How Does the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System Work? The Air Bag Supplemental - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 124
of injury in a subsequent collision. The Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System consists of: u driver and passenger air bag modules (which include the inflators and air bags), u one or more impact and safing sensors, u a system diagnostic module, u a readiness light and tone, u and the electrical - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 125
The diagnostic module monitors its own circuits, the air bag electrical system, the air bag readiness light, the air bag power, and the air bag inflators. Determining if System Is Operational The Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System uses a readiness light and a tone to indicate the condition of - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 126
or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. Air bags MUST BE disposed of 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 in the rear seat of your vehicle. Accident statistics suggest that children - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 127
back from the instrument panel as possible. Never secure rear-facing child seats or infant carriers in the front seat. Safety Seats for Children Use a safety seat that is recommended for the size and weight of the child. Always follow the safety seat manufacturer's instructions when installing and - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 128
have the passenger seat moved as far back from the instrument panel as possible. RWARNING Rear-facing child seats or infant carriers should never be placed in the front seats. All child restraint systems are designed to be secured in vehicle seats by lap belts or by the lap portion of a lap-shoulder - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 129
install a forward-facing child safety seat in the front seating positions, move vehicle seat as far back as possible. 1. 2. Position the child seat in the center of the passenger seating position. Pull down on shoulder belt, then grasp shoulder belt and lap belt together. See Figure 1. Pulling out - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 130
3. While holding the shoulder and lap belt portions together, route the tongue through the child seat according to the child seat manufacturer's instructions. See Figure 2. Be sure that the belt webbing is not twisted. Routing the lap/shoulder belt 128 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 131
4. Insert the belt tongue into the buckle for that seating position until you hear and feel the latch engage. See Figure 3. Make sure tongue is latched securely to buckle by pulling on tongue. Buckling the belt 129 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 132
locking mode to properly restrain a child. Setting the retractor to automatic locking mode 6. Allow the belt to retract. Pull up on the shoulder webbing. A clicking sound will be heard as the belt retracts. This indicates the retractor is in the automatic locking mode. Push down on the child - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 133
Allowing shoulder belt to retract Removing slack from belt 131 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 134
7. Before placing the child in the child seat, forcibly tilt the seat from side to side, and tug it forward to make sure that the seat is securely held in place. See Figure 7. Checking that the seat is secure 132 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 135
that the retractor is in the automatic locking mode. Try to pull more belt out of the retractor. If you cannot, the belt is in the automatic locking mode. See Figure 8. Checking the retractor 9. Check to make sure that the child seat is properly secured prior to each use. If the retractor is - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 136
Installing Child Safety Seats in the Rear Outboard Seating Positions Your rear outboard seating positions are equipped with a cinch tongue on the safety belts. Use the following procedure for installing a child safety seat in these locations. 1. Grasp the belt webbing below the tongue and pull as - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 137
again pull out as much of the belt as possible. Then, let go of the lap portion of the belt webbing. While holding the shoulder and lap belt portions together, route the tongue and webbing through the child seat according to the child seat manufacturer's instructions. See Figure 2. Be sure that the - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 138
5. Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle for that seating position until you hear a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the tongue is securely latched to the buckle by pulling on the tongue. See Figure 3. 136 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 139
6. Push down on the child seat and pull up on the shoulder belt portion to tighten the lap belt portion of the combination lap and shoulder belt. See Figure 4. 137 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 140
7. Grasp belt close to child seat and pull on the shoulder belt portion of the combination lap/shoulder belt, then allow the belt to retract and remove all slack to securely tighten the child safety seat in the vehicle. See Figure 5. 138 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 141
8. Before placing the child into the child seat, forcibly tilt the child seat from side-to-side and in forward directions to make sure that the seat is held securely in place. See Figures 6 and 7. If the child seat moves excessively, repeat steps 6 through 8, or properly install the child seat in a - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 142
9. Check from time to time to be sure that there is no slack in the lap/shoulder belt. The shoulder belt must be snug to keep the lap belt tight during a collision. Installing a Child Safety Seat at the Rear Center Seating Position with Adjustable Lap Belt 1. Lengthen the lap belt. To lengthen the - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 143
(at each rear seating position) have been provided in your vehicle to attach anchor hardware, if required. Tether anchor hardware kits (Part number 613D74), including instructions, may be obtained at no charge from any Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. All vehicles built for sale in Canada include - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 144
or rest in front of the child's face or neck, the child should wear the lap and shoulder belt. Moving the child closer to the center of the vehicle may help provide a good shoulder belt fit. RWARNING If the shoulder belt cannot be properly positioned, the child should sit in the center rear seat and - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 145
seating cushion that encourages safer seating posture and better fit of lap and shoulder belts on the child. A belt-positioning booster should be used if the shoulder belt rests in front of the child's face or neck, or if the lap belt does not fit snugly on both thighs, or if the thighs are too - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 146
toxic. Always open the garage door before you start the engine. Before you start your vehicle, do the following: 1. Make sure all occupants in the vehicle buckle their safety belts. See Safety Restraints in the Index for more details. Make sure the headlamps and other accessories are turned off when - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 147
Before you start your vehicle, you should test the warning lights on the instrument panel to make sure that they work. Refer to the Instrumentation chapter. Starting Your Engine To start your engine: 1. 2. 3. Follow the steps under Preparing to Start Your Vehicle at the beginning of this section. - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 148
. Excessive cranking could damage the starter. After you start the engine, let it idle for a few seconds. Keep your foot on the brake pedal and put the gearshift lever in gear. Release the parking brake. Slowly release the brake pedal and drive away in the normal manner. NOTE: Your vehicle has an - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 149
, creating the risk of fire or other damage. RWARNING Do not park, idle, or drive your vehicle in dry grass or other dry ground cover. The emission system heats up the engine compartment and exhaust system, which can start a fire. If you consistently start your vehicle in subzero temperatures, use - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 150
your heater with ungrounded electrical systems or two-pronged (cheater) Exhaust fumes can be toxic. Always open the garage door before you start the engine. RWARNING If you smell exhaust fumes inside your vehicle, have your dealer inspect your vehicle immediately. Do not drive if you smell exhaust - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 151
the exhaust and body ventilation systems checked whenever: u your vehicle is raised for service u the sound of the exhaust system changes u your vehicle has been damaged in a collision Improve your ventilation by keeping all air inlet vents clear of snow, leaves, and other debris. If the engine is - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 152
Driving Brakes Applying the Brakes Braking non ABS models Your vehicle has power front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. Anti-lock disc brakes on all four wheels are optional. They adjust automatically as the brake pads or linings wear down. Apply the brake pedal gradually. Use the "squeeze" - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 153
on vehicles with the anti-lock brake system, if the equipment is installed according to the manufacturer's instructions. However, if mobile radio transmitting equipment is installed in your vehicle and, if either the anti-lock brake system cycles or the check anti-lock light comes on at any time - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 154
panel. The Brake System Warning Light will glow if the parking brake is not fully released when the engine is running. Always check the Brake Warning Light each time you start your engine. Driving with the parking brake on will cause the brakes to wear out quickly and will reduce the fuel economy - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 155
is fully released, but the Brake System light remains on, have the brakes checked immediately. They may not be working properly. The parking brake system is designed for static parking only and is not designed to stop a moving vehicle, but you can use the parking brake to stop your vehicle in an - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 156
works automatically by rapidly applying and releasing the brakes to prevent one or both of the rear drive wheels from spinning during acceleration. The Traction AssistTM system can be manually turned off, to allow wheelspin if you want, by pushing the Traction Assist switch (located in the console - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 157
heard coming from the engine compartment. This noise is created by the ABS pump and is normal and may last for a few seconds during the acceleration of the vehicle. In general, this system improves your vehicle's stability and acceleration performance when road conditions warrant. Traction AssistTM - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 158
is running. This can damage the power steering pump. Speed Sensitive Power Steering (If equipped) The steering system in 4.6L engine vehicles is speed sensitive. This means that the steering effort is light for parking and heavier for highway driving. However, if you have to swerve around an object - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 159
. Depress the brake pedal, move the gearshift lever to N (Neutral) and start the engine. RWARNING DO NOT DRIVE YOUR VEHICLE UNTIL YOU VERIFY THAT THE BRAKELAMPS ARE WORKING. If you need to shift out of P (Park) by using the alternate procedure described above, it is possible that a fuse has blown - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 160
positions of the console-mounted gearshift Once the gearshift is secure in the desired position, release the brake pedal and use the there is no power transferred through the transmission. However, the final drive is not locked so the wheels are free to rotate. The vehicle may be started in the N - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 161
gearshift is console-mounted on the floor. The Transmission Control Switch (TCS) is located on the gearshift handle. The Transmission Control Indicator Light (O/D OFF) is located on the instrument panel. You can put the gearshift lever in any of the several positions. The OVERDRIVE OFF light is off - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 162
fuel economy when you travel at cruising speeds. When to use D (Overdrive) - with transmission control switch activated (O/D OFF light you more engine braking to slow your vehicle on downgrades. When to use 1 (Low) Use 1 (Low) when driving down steep grades. It gives more engine braking to slow your - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 163
axle and rear axle should never be more than the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for the respective axle. You can find your vehicle's GVWR and GAWR on the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the left front door lock facing or the door latch post pillar. The weight limits of your vehicle's tires - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 164
The load that you add to your vehicle must not exceed the maximum load stated on the Safety Compliance Certification Decal attached to the left front door pillar. To figure the weight of your vehicle's load, add the weights of: u the driver and passengers u luggage and any other items that you put - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 165
of the amount shown on the tire decal can cause rapid tire wear or loss of vehicle control. Trailer Towing Your vehicle does not come from the factory fully equipped to tow. No towing to Tow in this chapter.) while you tow. (See Driving while you tow in this chapter.) u Use extra caution when - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 166
if you tow a trailer. (See Servicing your vehicle if you tow in this a trailer when using a temporary spare tire. Your vehicle is classified as a light duty towing vehicle. The amount of weight that you can safely tow depends on vehicle's bumper. The bumper is not designed to bear the load. 165 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 167
check the pressure in all your vehicle's tires when preparing to tow (see inflation recommendation on the tire label). Using the hitch Your vehicle uses a load carrying hitch. Because this type of hitch places the tongue load of a trailer on the rear wheels to handle. 's bumper. The bumper is - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 168
Electric brakes and manual, automatic, or surge-type hydraulic brakes are safe if you install them properly and adjust them according to the manufacturer's instructions. Be sure that your trailer's brakes meet local and federal regulations. RWARNING Do not connect a trailer's hydraulic brake system - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 169
speed control may shut off. Servicing Your Vehicle If You Tow If you tow a trailer for a long distance, your vehicle will need to be serviced Certification Label. Driving Under Special Conditions Tips for Safe Driving As with any new vehicle, yours may drive and handle differently from your - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 170
snowy roads: u Do not quickly move the steering wheel unless necessary. u Drive slower than you normally would. u Do not use speed control. u Give your vehicle more distance to stop. u Pump the brake pedal steadily and evenly to avoid locking your wheels. (Does not apply to vehicles with anti-lock - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 171
, call for a tow truck. High water Do not drive through flooded areas unless you are sure that the water is below the bottom of the wheel rims. If you must drive through high water, drive slowly. You may have limited traction or wet brakes, so allow extra stopping distance because your vehicle will - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 172
protect your vehicle's wiring system from overloading. If electrical parts in your vehicle are not working, the system may have been overloaded and blown a fuse or tripped a circuit breaker. Before you replace or repair any electrical parts, check the appropriate fuses (conventional and high current - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 173
The instrument panel fuse panel location The instrument panel fuse panel 172 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 174
The Instrument Panel Fuses, Circuit Breakers and Relays 173 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 175
Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. The high current fuse panel is located in the engine compartment on the left-hand fender apron. RWARNING Always disconnect the battery before servicing high current fuses. Ford recommends that high current fuses be replaced by a qualified technician. The high current - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 176
The high current fuse panel 175 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 177
The high current fuses and relays 176 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 178
177 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 179
you need to check a fuse, follow these steps: 1. Find the fuse panel underneath the instrument panel, to the left of the steering column. 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 should be replaced - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 180
out how to locate the fuse panel. Circuit breakers will reset themselves and allow the electrical parts to work again once the overload on the circuit is removed. If the circuit breakers continue to cut off electricity, have your vehicle's electrical system checked. Diagnostic equipment is needed - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 181
rating. To remove a circuit breaker mounted in the fuse panel, grip it with your finger and thumb and pull it straight out of its socket. If the Engine Cranks but Does Not Start or Does Not Start After a Collision Fuel System Shut-off Switch If the engine cranks but does not start or does not start - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 182
or smell fuel, you can try to start your vehicle again. Check all vehicle warning lights before driving the vehicle. 4. 5. 6. Changing a Tire If you get a flat tire while you are driving, do not apply the brake heavily. Instead, gradually decrease the speed. Hold the steering wheel firmly and - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 183
-Lok rear axle could result in a permanent reduction in effectiveness. This loss of effectiveness does not affect normal driving and should fail, causing you to lose control of the vehicle, possibly injuring yourself or others. When you drive with the temporary spare tire, DO from its wheel. 182 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 184
use the wheel for any other type of vehicle. u drive through an automatic car wash with this tire. Because the temporary spare tire is smaller than a conventional tire, it reduces the ground clearance. Your vehicle may get caught in the rails and it could be damaged. Spare Tire Location The spare - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 185
cover. Unscrew the wing-nut holding down the spare tire. NOTE: Wing-nut is not removable. 3. Lift out the spare tire, jack, and lug wrench. Preparing to Change the Tire 1. Make sure that your vehicle will not move or roll. Put the gearshift in P (Park). Set the parking brake and block the wheel - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 186
notches closest to the wheel to be removed. Center the jack between (2) underbody notches and turn the handle of the jack clockwise until the wheel is completely off the ground. RWARNING To lessen the risk of personal injury, do not put any part of your body under the vehicle while changing - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 187
The improper lift point NOTE: Never use the differential housing as a lift point. 186 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 188
for the jack 2. Turn the jack handle clockwise until the wheel clears the ground. Remove the wheel lug nuts. Replace the flat tire with the spare tire, making sure that the air valve stem is facing outward. Reinstall the lug nuts, tightening until the wheel is snug against the hub. The beveled - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 189
service technician check the lug nuts for proper torque specifications. The lug nuts on the wheel 7. 8. Place any wheel covers and ornaments in the trunk. Put the tire, jack, and wrench away. Make sure the jack is securely fastened so it does not rattle when you drive. Unblock the wheels - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 190
Center Wheel Cover To remove the wheel cover: 1. Pry the center ornament from the wheel cover using the tapered end of the jack handle. Do not use a screwdriver or any other tool. If you do, you may damage the cover. The wheel, with the wheel cover still attached, may now be removed from the vehicle - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 191
the wheel cover: 1. Place the tire valve stem hole in the wheel cover over the tire valve stem. Align the holes in the wheel cover mounting pad with the center holes in the metal inserts. Install and tighten the five screws. Align the legs of the ornament with the slots on the wheel cover. Strike - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 192
nut. Jump-Starting Your Vehicle Your vehicle's battery may die if you leave the lights on or any electrical equipment on after you turn the engine off. If this happens, you may be able to jump-start your vehicle with always shield your face and eyes. Make sure that you can breathe fresh air. 191 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 193
directions for preparing your vehicle to jump-start and connecting the jumper cables in the order they are given. If in doubt, call for road service. 192 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 194
engine cooling fan and other moving parts. Check all battery terminals and remove any excessive corrosion before you attach the jumper cables. Turn on the heater fan in both vehicles. Turning on the fan helps protect the electrical system from voltage surges. Turn off all other switches and lights - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 195
to the discharged battery. Connect the other end of that cable to a good metallic surface on the engine or frame of the disabled vehicle making sure it is clear of any rotating engine components. The following illustrations show where you can find a metallic surface. RWARNING Do not connect the end - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 196
The 3.8L SFI engine 195 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 197
The 4.6L SFI Engine 196 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 198
jumper cables are not in the way of moving engine parts, then start the booster vehicle. Run the engine at a moderate speed. Let the discharged battery charge a while to let the engine "relearn" its idle conditions. Drive it around for a while with all electrical accessories turned off to let the - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 199
member, your roadside assistance center. Do not tow with slingbelt equipment when towing your Cougar from the rear. Ford Motor Company has not developed or approved a T-hook sling-type procedure. When slingbelt towing from the front, the towbar will deform the soft fascia (bumper). However, it will - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 200
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. 199 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 201
the basic parts that you need to check and service regularly. 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 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 202
Be especially careful when inspecting or servicing your vehicle. Here are some general precautions for your safety: u Do not work on a hot engine. The engine RWARNING cooling fan may come on unexpectedly. Always turn the engine off and let it cool. The cooling fan is automatic and may come on - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 203
. supported only by a jack. If you must work under a vehicle, use safety stands. materials away from the battery and all fuel-related parts. u Keep all lit cigarettes and other smoking If you disconnect the battery, the engine must "relearn" its idle conditions before your vehicle will drive - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 204
-month intervals to maintain smooth and trouble-free operation. Engine Compartment Your vehicle has one of these types of engines: u a 3.8 liter SFI engine u a 4.6 liter SFI engine The following pages show diagrams of each engine type and where to find items that you should regularly service. 204 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 205
A 3.8 liter SFI engine 205 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 206
A 4.6 liter SFI engine 206 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 207
for your vehicle. They provide the best engine performance, fuel economy and engine protection for all climates down to -15˚F (-25˚C). Synthetic engine oils which are CERTIFIED and of the preferred viscosity may be used in your engine. The engine oil and oil filter must still be changed according to - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 208
fuel in your vehicle. Remember the engine must be off, the oil 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. Set the parking brake - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 209
. To add oil, remove the filler cap and use a funnel to pour oil into the opening. Be careful not to overfill the engine. Recheck the oil level after you finish adding oil. Changing the Engine Oil and the Oil Filter Change the engine oil and oil filter per the following, whichever occurs first - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 210
mileage on your vehicle and the brake lining wears. Check the brake fluid at each scheduled engine oil change or at least once a year. You can do this by looking at the fluid level in the plastic reservoir on the master cylinder. Also, see label on reservoir cap. (To locate the master cylinder, 210 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 211
vomiting. Get medical attention immediately. If the fluid is low, carefully 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-AB or DOT 3 equivalent fluid meeting Ford specification ESA-M6C25-A. RWARNING If - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 212
system inspected. RWARNING Do not let the reservoir for the master cylinder run dry. This may cause the brakes to fail. Windshield Washer Fluid Washer Fluid Check the level of the windshield washer fluid periodically. The reservoir for washer fluid is located on the driver's side of the engine - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 213
near the fan. Your vehicle's coolant protects your engine from overheating in the summer and from freezing in the winter. Check the level of the coolant at least once a month. Simply look at the engine coolant reservoir located in the engine compartment. To locate the reservoir, see the diagram of - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 214
internal passageway corrosion and these additives lubricate the water pump. The coolant should be serviced as noted in the Maintenance Schedule booklet. The engine coolant reservoir Checking Hoses Inspect all engine and heater system hoses and hose connections for deterioration, leaks, and loose - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 215
be caused by escaping steam or engine coolant. 1. Before you remove the cap, turn the engine off and let it cool. Even when the engine is cool, be careful when you remove the radiator cap or vent plug. When the engine is cool, wrap a thick cloth around the cap and turn it slowly counterclockwise to - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 216
of automotive fluids. Coolant refill capacity To find out how much fluid your vehicle's cooling system can hold, refer to Refill Capacities in the Capacities and Specifications chapter. Have your dealer check the engine cooling system for leaks if you have to add more than a quart (liter) of - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 217
in which you drive during winter months. Never increase the engine coolant concentration above 60%. Leave a 50/50 mixture of engine coolant and water Engine Coolant Drain and Flush Proper procedures for a complete coolant drain and flush of the cooling system can be found in the Car Service Manual - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 218
u Immediately shut off engine. Cover cap u Reinstall the radiator cap securely. u Remove the cap from the engine coolant recovery reservoir and add a 50/50 mixture of recommended cooling system fluid and water to the FULL-HOT mark on the engine coolant recovery reservoir. Check that reservoir hose - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 219
engine only u With the engine OFF and cool, remove the pressure cap, located on the coolant reservoir. Remove the heater hose and clamp, located on the rear flowing through the entire system). u Immediately shut off the engine and let cool. Cautiously remove the pressure relief cap and add a 50/ - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 220
gauge in the instrument cluster is near the center of the NORMAL operating temperature range. While the engine idles, turn the steering wheel back and forth several times. Make sure that the cap assembly is installed at this time. Turn the engine off. Check the fluid level on the dipstick (which is - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 221
Mercon ATF XT-2-QDX or an equivalent. If the power steering fluid is low, do not drive your vehicle for a long period of time before adding fluid. This can damage the power steering pump. If you check the power steering fluid when it is cold, make sure that the fluid reaches the FULL - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 222
4.6L SFI engine 1. Check the fluid level when the system is COLD (allow at least one half hour after driving for the power steering fluid to cool). Locate the power steering reservoir mounted to the front upper left-hand corner of the engine. Visually verify that the fluid level is above the MIN - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 223
km) of driving. However, if necessary, you can check the fluid level without having to drive 20 miles (30 km) to obtain a normal operating temperature if outside temperatures are above 50˚F (10˚C). With the vehicle on a level surface, start the engine and, while fully applying the brake pedal, move - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 224
cold reading on the dipstick. Wipe off the dipstick cap, pull the dipstick out and wipe the indicator end clean Pull the dipstick out and read the fluid level. When checking fluid at normal operating temperature 150˚F-170˚F (66˚C-77˚C), the center to find out about recycling automotive fluids. 224 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 225
Battery. The Low-Maintenance Battery has removable vent caps for checking the electrolyte level and for adding water, if necessary. The electrolyte level should be checked at least every 24 months or 24,000 needs water quite often, have the charging system checked for a possible malfunction. 225 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 226
allow the computer to "relearn" its idle conditions before your vehicle will drive properly. To let the engine do this, put the gearshift in P (Park), turn off all the accessories, and start the vehicle. Let the engine idle for at least one minute. (Engine must be warm in order to "learn.") Also - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 227
the wiper blade assembly, blade refill, or wiper arm always use a Motorcraft part or equivalent. To replace the blades, follow the instructions that come with them. Tires Checking Tire Pressure u Use an accurate tire pressure gauge. u Check the tire pressure when tires are cold, after the - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 228
Tire Rotation Because your vehicle's front and rear tires perform different jobs, they often wear differently. To make sure your tires wear evenly and last longer, rotate them as indicated in the following diagram. For tire rotation intervals, see the Maintenance Schedule booklet. If you notice that - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 229
When replacing full size tires, never mix radial, bias-belted, or bias-type tires. Use only the tire sizes that are listed on size, speed rating, and load-carrying capacity. Use only the tire combinations recommended on the decal. If you do not follow these precautions, your vehicle may not drive - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 230
tires for use on passenger cars. They do not apply to 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 575.104 the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 231
to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 232
heat buildup and possible tire failure. RWARNING Driving too fast for conditions creates the possibility of loss of vehicle control. Driving at very high speeds for extended periods of tires. RWARNING Snow tires must be the same size and grade as the tires you currently have on your vehicle. 232 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 233
use the chains on dry roads. The fuel door is outside the car on the passenger side near the back. To fill the fuel tank: 1. After opening the fuel filler door, remove the cap carefully and slowly by turning it counterclockwise 1/2 to 3/4 turn. RWARNING The fuel system may be under pressure. If the - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 234
tightened. Push the fuel door closed. RWARNING If you do not use the proper fuel cap, the pressure in the fuel tank can damage the fuel system or cause it to work improperly in a collision. NOTE: If you replace your fuel cap with an aftermarket fuel filler cap, the customer warranty may be void - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 235
. Do not be concerned if your vehicle sometimes knocks lightly. However, if it knocks heavily under most driving conditions on the recommended octane fuel, see your dealer or a qualified service technician to prevent any engine damage. Fuel quality If you are experiencing starting, rough idle or - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 236
. RWARNING Gasoline or gasoline blended with methanol can cause blindness and possible death when swallowed. If any fuel is swallowed, call a physician or poison control center immediately. u Avoid breathing vapors while refueling. u If fuel is splashed on the skin, wash with soap and water. 236 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 237
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. Calculating Fuel Economy Fuel economy is an estimate of the efficiency of your vehicle, and can be calculated as Miles - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 238
fuel economy: u Lack of regular, scheduled maintenance u Rapid acceleration and excessive speed u Driving with your foot on the brake u Sudden stops u Extended engine idling u Using speed control in hilly terrain u Extended use of the A/C, defroster, rear window defroster and other accessories - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 239
converter which enables your vehicle to comply with applicable exhaust emission requirements. RWARNING Exhaust leaks may result in the entry of harmful and potentially lethal fumes into the passenger compartment. Under extreme conditions excessive exhaust temperatures could damage the fuel system - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 240
the catalytic converter and the other emission control parts continue to work properly: u Use only unleaded fuel. u Avoid running out of fuel. u Do not turn off the ignition while your vehicle is moving, especially at high speeds. u Do not push start your vehicle. u Have the services listed in - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 241
charge warning light, the check engine light, or the temperature warning light. These sometimes indicate that the emission system is not working properly. Do not make any unauthorized changes to your vehicle or engine. Changes that cause more unburned fuel to reach the exhaust system can increase - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 242
Diagnostic (OBD) II 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. To prepare for I/M testing, the law specifies that additional mixed city and highway driving is required to complete the check - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 243
Replacement It is a good idea to check the operation of the following lights frequently: u headlamps u tail lamps u brakelamps u hazard flasher u high-mount brakelamp u turn signals u license plate lamps The alignment of your headlamps should be checked if: u oncoming motorists frequently signal - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 244
bulbs. When the lamp burns out, simply replace the bulb, rather than the whole lamp. RWARNING Handle a halogen headlamp bulb carefully and keep out of children's reach. Grasp the bulb only by its , contaminants may enter the headlamp housing and affect its performance. Parts of a headlamp 244 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 245
by rotating it clockwise until you feel a "stop." Push the electrical connector into the rear of the plastic base until it snaps, locking it into position. Turn the headlamps on and make sure that they work properly. If the headlamp was correctly aligned before you changed the bulb, you should not - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 246
High-Mount Brakelamp Bulbs Your vehicle has a brakelamp mounted in the rear window, called a high-mount brakelamp. You may need to remove this lamp at times to replace the brakelamp bulb or to clean the rear window. Parts of the high-mount brakelamp 246 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 247
2. 3. 4. 5. Slide the trim cover toward the front of the vehicle to disengage the retaining clips. Twist the socket counterclockwise and remove from lamp. Pull bulb out of socket. Remove the retaining screw. Lift the lamp above the carpet and slide away from the rear window. Replace the burned out - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 248
Using the Right Bulbs 248 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 249
materials or workmanship and therefore is not covered by warranty. Ford, however, believes that continual improvement in customer satisfaction is a high priority. For this sunlight u Wash your vehicle while the body is hot Polish your vehicle to remove harmful deposits and protect the finish. 249 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 250
Parts Wash chrome and aluminum parts with a mild detergent. Do not use steel wool, abrasive cleaners, fuel, or strong detergents. Cleaning Plastic Parts Some of your vehicle's exterior trim parts and rubber parts, it can cause deterioration. Cleaning the Safety Belts Clean the safety belts with any - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 251
detergent diluted in water. Rinse them with clear water. Cleaning the Instrument Panel Lens Clean the instrument panel lens with a soft cloth and a glass cleaner, such as Ford Ultra area of fabric. If the fabric's color or texture is adversely affected by a particular cleaner, do not use it. 251 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 252
washer is used to clean the engine. The high pressure fluid could penetrate sealed parts and assemblies causing damage or malfunctions. engine block or fuel injection pump, do not spray a hot engine or injection pump with cold water. be covered. Covering these components will help prevent water - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 253
Cylinders #1, #2, #3 have an EG suffix. Cylinders #4, #5, #6 have an E suffix. For 4.6L (2V) engines: Cylinders #1, #2, #3, #4 have a PG suffix. Cylinders #5, #6, #7, #8 have a P suffix. If a spark plug needs to be replaced, use only spark plugs with the service number suffix letter as shown on the - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 254
Fluid Specifications and Capacities NOTE: Rear axle lube quantities must be replaced every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or if the axle has been submerged in water. Otherwise, the lube should not be checked or changed unless a leak is suspected or repair required. 254 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 255
Lubrican t Specifications 255 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 256
. Body u Wash vehicle thoroughly to remove dirt, grease, oil, tar or mud from exterior surfaces, rear wheel housing and underside of front fenders. locations. rust. u Periodically wash vehicles stored in exposed u Touch-up raw or primed metal to prevent u Cover chrome and stainless steel parts - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 257
u Lubricate all hood, door and trunk lid hinges and latches with a light grade oil. u Cover interior soft trim to prevent fading. u Keep all rubber parts free from oil and solvents. Engine u Start engine every 15 days. Run at fast idle the gears while the engine is running. until it reaches - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 258
Cooling system u Protect against freezing temperatures. Battery u Check and recharge as necessary. u Keep connections clean and covered with a light coat of grease. u If storing your vehicle for more than 30 days without recharging the battery, it may be advisable to disconnect the battery - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 259
259 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 260
it finds that a safety defect exists in a group 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 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 261
Customer Assistance Roadside Assistance Ford Motor Company has set up a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week hotline with trained operators who put you in touch with the help you need if you experience a problem with your vehicle. This complimentary service . Roadside Assistance will cover the following: u - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 262
Assistance identification card can be found in the Owner Guide portfolio in your glove compartment. Complete the card and place it in your wallet -2006). If You Have a Service Problem Ford Motor Company has authorized Ford and Lincoln-Mercury dealerships that can service your vehicle for you. This - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 263
If you are away from home when your vehicle needs to be serviced, or if you need more help than the dealer gave you, contact the Ford Customer Assistance Center to find an authorized dealership that may be able to help. In the U.S., contact: If you live in Canada and have any questions or - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 264
before pursuing replacement or repurchase remedies provided by certain state laws. This dispute handling procedure is not required prior to enforcing state created rights or other rights which modify procedures and/or to discontinue this service without notice and without incurring obligations. 266 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 265
Lincoln cars and Ford and Mercury light trucks sales transaction u request for reimbursement of consequential expenses. Expenses incidental to the warranty complaint being reviewed are eligible for consideration. warranty u items not covered by the new vehicle limited u items covered by a service - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 266
are not eligible. Eligibility may differ according to state law. For example, see the unique brochures for California and Wisconsin purchasers/lessees. How does the Board Work? The Board consists of: u three consumer representatives u a Ford or Lincoln/Mercury dealer Consumer candidates for - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 267
, make, model, and Vehicle u the date of repair(s) and mileage at the time u the current mileage u the name of the dealer who sold or serviced the vehicle u a brief description of your unresolved concern u a brief summary of the action taken with the dealer and Ford Motor Company u the names (if - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 268
the Board may be presented as evidence by any party in subsequent legal proceedings that may be initiated, where allowed by law. To Request a DSB Brochure/Application For a brochure/application, speak to your dealer or write to the Board at the following address: 270 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 269
concerns that the dealership cannot answer, contact the Customer Assistance Centre. Mediation/Arbitration Program (Canada Only) to resolve a factory-related vehicle service concern have been unsatisfactory, Ford of straight-forward and relatively speedy alternative to resolve a disagreement when - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 270
award is binding on both you and Ford of Canada. CAMVAP services are available in all territories and provinces, except Quebec. For 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 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 271
You may also have difficulty importing your vehicle back into the U.S. if you use leaded fuel. If your vehicle must be serviced while you are traveling or living in Central or South America, the Caribbean, or the Middle East, contact the nearest Ford dealership. If the dealership - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 272
following, or products of equivalent quality: A wide selection of accessories is available through your local authorized dealer. These fine accessories have been engineered specifically to fulfill your automotive needs. They are custom designed to complement the style and aerodynamic appearance of - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 273
Safety, Comfort, and Convenience 276 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 274
adding accessories, equipment, passengers, and luggage to your vehicle, do not exceed the total weight capacity of the vehicle or of the front or rear axle regulates the use of mobile communications systems - such as two-way radios, telephones, and theft alarms - that are equipped with radio - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 275
may cause the engine to stumble or stall. In addition, such systems may themselves be damaged or their operation affected by operating your vehicle. (Citizens band [CB] transceivers, garage door openers, and other transmitters whose power output is 5 watts or less will not ordinarily affect your - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 276
280 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 277
Label locations 285 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 278
Front Exterior View 286 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 279
Rear Exterior View 287 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 280
Entrance View 288 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 281
Driver's Door 289 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 282
Instrument Panel 290 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 283
Instrument Cluster 291 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 284
Trunk 292 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 285
3.8L Engine Compartment 293 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 286
4.6L Engine Compartment 294 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 287
...Air cleaner filter location ...specifications ...Air conditioning manual heating and air conditioning system ...semi-automatic temperature control system ...Alarm, activating remote personal Antenna, radio (see Electronic sound system) ...Antifreeze (see Engine coolant) . . Anti-lock brake system - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 288
...Anti-theft system arming the system ...description ...disarming an untriggered system . . disarming a triggered system...triggering ...warning light ...Appeals (see Dispute settlement board) Assistance (see Customer assistance). . Audio system (see Electronic sound system) ...Autolamp system (see - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 289
-lock brake system (ABS) warning light ...applying the brakes ...brake warning light ...fluid, checking and adding . fluid, refill capacities ...fluid, specifications ...front disc ...if brakes do not grip well . . master cylinder ...new brake linings...noise ...parking ...power braking ...servicing - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 290
a tire ...181 Charging system warning light ...14 Child safety restraints ...124 child safety belts ...142 child safety seats ...125 Child safety seats ...125 and air bags ...125 automatic locking mode (retractor) ...112, 125 in front seat ...125 in rear outboard seat ...125 in rear seat ...125, 140 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 291
washing ...waxing ...wheels ...Climate control system ...air conditioning ...heating ...Clock ...Cold engine starting...Combination lap and shoulder belts Compact disc player (see Electronic sound system) ...Compact disc radio (see Electronic sound system) ...Console, description ...Controls mirrors - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 292
...Cooling fan ...Customer Assistance Center, Customer Assistance Centre, Ford of Canada ... ...Ford (U.S.) ... . 213 . 215 . 217 . 258 . 254 . 255 . . 21 . 202 . 265 265, 271 D Daytime running light system . Defrost rear window ...windshield ...Dipstick ...automatic transmission fluid . engine oil - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 293
-starting ...towing...Emergency brake (parking brake) . . Emission control system ...catalytic converter ...emissions warranty ...Engine does not start ...fuel injected engine, starting ...fuel pump shut-off switch ...preparing to start ...refill capacities ...service points ...starting ...starting - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 294
and oil filter ...checking and adding ...dipstick ...disposal ...engine oil pressure warning light . filter, specifications ...refill capacities ...specifications ...synthetic oil ..."break-in" oils ...viscosity ...Entry system illuminated ...remote ...Exhaust fumes ...Extended Service Plan, Ford - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 295
emergencies ...Fuel cap ...removing ...replacing...Fuel filter, specifications ...Fuel gauge ...Fuel pump shut-off switch engine does not start ...starting after a collision ...Fuse panels engine compartment ...high current fuse panel ...instrument panel ...Fuses charts ...checking and replacing - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 296
(see Fuel cap) ...Gas mileage (see Fuel economy) ...Gasoline (see Fuel)...Gauges, Mechanical engine coolant temperature gauge . fuel gauge ...odometer ...speedometer ...tachometer ...trip odometer ...GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) calculating ...definition...driving with a heavy load ...location - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 297
manual heating and air conditioning system . semi-automatic system . High beams indicator light ...operation ...High-mount brakelamp . . description ...replacing the bulb ...Hitch ...Hood ...latch location ...lubrication specifications. release lever ...working under the hood Horn...Hoses, checking - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 298
lights and chimes (see Lights) Infant seats (see Safety seats) ...Instrument cluster, mechanical ...Instrument panel ...cleaning ...lighting up panel 74 73 L Lamps autolamp delay system ...bulb replacement specifications chart checking ...daytime running light system ...dome lamps ...306 Index ... - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 299
belts ...Lights, warning and indicator air bag...anti-lock brakes (ABS)...anti-theft ...brake ...charging system ...door ajar...engine oil pressure ...hazard warning light ...high beam ...low coolant ...low fuel ...low washer fluid ...oil pressure ...overdrive off ...safety belt ...service engine - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 300
roof ...Motorcraft parts ...4 201 210 . 87 . 88 . 87 . 93 . 93 . 89 . 85 253 N New vehicle break-in ...6 O Octane rating ...Odometer...description ...trip odometer . . Oil filter ...Oil (see Engine oil) Oil viscosity ...On-board diagnostic Overdrive...Overseas offices ...(OBD ...II) system ...209 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 301
P Panic alarm feature, remote entry system Parking brake...operation ...warning light...Parts (see Motorcraft Parts) ...PCV valve, specifications ...Power distribution box (see Fuses) ...Power door locks ...Power features door locks ...mirrors ...moon roof ...seats...windows...Power steering - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 302
driving tips...Safety belts (see Safety restraints) ...Safety chains, when towing a trailer...Safety information relating to automotive fuels ...Safety restraints adjusting the safety belts...110, 113, automatic locking mode ...automatic locking mode (retractor) ...center rear lap belt ...cleaning - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 303
Safety seats for children ...and air bags ...automatic locking mode (retractor) ...112, in center seating positions ...in front seat ...in rear outboard ...in rear seat...Seat belts (see Safety restraints)...Seats ...adjusting the seat, manual ...adjusting the seats, power ...child safety seats ... - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 304
if the battery is disabled ...Steering, power ...Steering wheel horn ...locking ...tilting ...Storage compartments, center console Storing your vehicle ...Sunroof (moon roof) ...Sun visor ...Supplemental air bag readiness light Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) ... 253 168 255 ...81 ...167 ...22 - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 305
Towing your vehicle ...using wheel dollies ...with a tow truck ...Traction assist ...Traction-lok rear axle ...Trailer towing ...calculating maximum trailer weight ...safety chains ...tips ...trailer brakes ...trailer lamps ...Transmission automatic operation ...fluid, checking and adding (automatic - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 306
your vehicle (see Climate control) ...61, 65 Viscosity (see Engine oil) ...207 Visor (see Sun visor)...89 Voltmeter (see Battery voltage gauge) ...14 W Warm engine, starting ...Warning chimes key in ignition ...safety belt ...Warning lights (see Lights) . . Warranties ...basic ...Canada...radio - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 307
...cleaning ...covers ...inspection and maintenance ...lug nuts ...ornaments ...Windows ...power windows, operating ...rear, defrosting ...Windshield, washing ...Windshield washer fluid and wipers . checking and adding fluid ...checking and replacing wiper blades low washer fluid light...operation - 1997 Mercury Cougar | Owner's Manual - Page 308
Service Station Information 316
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