2003 Mercury Sable Owner Guide 2nd Printing - Page 112

Driving Make sure the corresponding lights illuminate or illuminate briefly. If a light fails to illuminate, have the vehicle serviced. • If the driver's safety belt is fastened, the light may not illuminate. Starting the engine Note: Whenever you start your vehicle, release the key as soon as the engine starts. Excessive cranking could damage the starter. 1. Turn the key to 5 (START) 3 without pressing the accelerator 2 pedal and release as soon as the engine starts. The key will return to 4 4 (ON). 1 2. If the temperature is above -12° C 5 (10° F) and the engine does not start within five seconds on the first try, turn the key to OFF, wait 10 seconds and try again. 3. If the temperature is below -12° C (10° F) and the engine does not start in 15 seconds on the first try, turn the key OFF and wait 10 seconds and try again. If the engine does not start in two attempts, Press the accelerator pedal all the way to floor and hold. Turn the key to START position. 4. When the engine starts, release the key, then release the accelerator pedal gradually as the engine speeds up. 5. After idling for a few seconds, apply the brake, shift into gear and drive. Cold weather starting (flexible fuel vehicles only) In cold weather, ethanol fuel distributors should supply winter grade (Ed85) ethanol. If summer grade (Ed85) ethanol is used in cold weather, you may experience increased cranking times, rough idle or hesitation until the engine has warmed up. Consult your fuel distributor for the availability of winter grade (Ed85) ethanol. High-quality blends of winter grade (Ed85) ethanol will produce satisfactory cold weather starting and driving results. Cold starting performance can also be improved by using an engine block heater. Engine block heaters are available as an option and can be obtained from your Ford dealer. Consult the engine block heater section for proper use of the engine block heater. 112