2001 Mercury Cougar Owner Guide 2nd Printing - Page 244

Maintenance and care If you must replace the fuel filler cap, replace it with an authorized Motorcraft part. The customer warranty may be void for any damage to the fuel tank or fuel system if an authorized Motorcraft fuel filler cap is not used. The fuel system may be under pressure. If the fuel filler cap is venting vapor or if you hear a hissing sound, wait until it stops before completely removing the fuel filler cap. Otherwise fuel may spray out and injure you or others. If you do not use the proper fuel filler cap, excessive pressure or vacuum in the fuel tank may damage the fuel system or cause the fuel cap to disengage in a collision, which may result in possible personal injury. Calculating fuel economy To accurately calculate your vehicle's fuel economy: 1. Fill the tank completely and record the initial odometer reading. 2. Each time you fill the tank, record the amount of fuel added (in litres or gallons). 3. After at least three to five fillĆups, fill the fuel tank and record the current mileage reading. 4. Use one of the following equations to calculate fuel economy. Litres used x 100 / Total kilometres traveled Total miles traveled / Total gallons used Keep a record for at least one month. This will provide an accurate estimate of the vehicle's fuel economy.