2000 Ford Focus Owner's Manual - Page 183

Maintenance and care • Do not work on a vehicle with the engine running in an enclosed space, unless you are sure you have enough ventilation. • Keep all lit cigarettes, open flames and other lit material away from the battery and all fuel related parts. If you disconnect the battery, the engine must relearn" its idle conditions before your vehicle will drive properly, as explained under the Battery section in this chapter. OPENING THE HOOD 1. Inside the vehicle, pull the hood release handle located at the bottom of the instrument panel below the steering wheel. 2. Go to the front of the vehicle and release the auxiliary latch that is located under the front of the hood. 3. Lift the hood and support it with the yellow end of its strut in the holes in the hood ensuring it is secure. 4. To close, replace the support strut in its retaining clip, lower the hood and allow it to drop into the catch for at least 20 - 30 cm (8 - 12 inches). 183