Mercury Sable (2002) - Car

Sable (2002) - Car Mercury - Free user manual and instructions

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Product Type Car
Brand Mercury
Model Sable (2002)
Engine Options 3.0L V6 Vulcan / 3.0L FFV V6 / 3.0L DOHC V6 Duratec
Fuel Type Unleaded gasoline (87 octane) or E85 (FFV models)
Fuel Tank Capacity 68.1 L (18.0 gal)
Transmission 4-speed automatic (AX4S or 4F50N)
Drivetrain Front-wheel drive
Overall Length 5,075 mm (sedan) / 5,070 mm (wagon)
Overall Width 1,854 mm
Overall Height 1,463 mm (sedan) / 1,468 mm (wagon)
Wheelbase 2,757 mm
Track Width Front: 1,566 mm / Rear: 1,577 mm (sedan)
Seating Capacity 5 passengers
Safety Features Dual front airbags, side airbags (if equipped), ABS, traction control, safety belt pretensioners
Entertainment System AM/FM stereo with cassette or single CD; optional CD changer
Climate Control Manual or Electronic Automatic Temperature Control (EATC)
Power Accessories Windows (driver one-touch down), mirrors (heated optional), speed control
Steering Tilt steering
Brakes Power front disc, rear drum
Battery Motorcraft BXT-36R (standard)
Engine Oil Capacity 4.25 L (Vulcan) or 5.2 L (Duratec) with filter
Engine Coolant Capacity 11.0 L (Vulcan) or 10.0 L (Duratec)
Replacement Parts Motorcraft air filter FA-1683, oil filter FL-400S or FL-820S, spark plugs AWSF-32PP/AGSF-22PP/AWSF-32F

Frequently Asked Questions - Sable (2002) Mercury

What type of engine oil does the Mercury Sable 2002 require?
The recommended engine oil is Motorcraft SAE 5W-20 Super Premium Motor Oil meeting WSS-M2C153-H and API Certification Mark. Capacity with filter is 4.25 L (4.5 quarts) for the 3.0L Vulcan engine and 5.2 L (5.5 quarts) for the 3.0L Duratec engine.
How do I reset the fuel pump shut-off switch after an accident?
The fuel pump shut-off switch is located in the passenger compartment, often behind a panel on the right side. To reset, press the button on the switch. If the vehicle does not start after resetting, there may be a fuel leak; do not attempt to drive and contact roadside assistance.
What should I do if the 'Check Fuel Cap' light comes on?
First, ensure the fuel cap is properly tightened by turning it until it clicks several times. After proper installation, the light should turn off after a few driving cycles. Continuing to drive with the light on may activate the Service Engine Soon light.
How do I replace a headlamp bulb on the Mercury Sable 2002?
1. Remove the bolt and two retainer pins from the headlamp housing. 2. Pull the assembly forward and remove the dust shield. 3. Disconnect the electrical connector. 4. Rotate the bulb retaining ring counterclockwise and remove the old bulb. 5. Install the new bulb (9007 QL) with the flat side up, replace the ring, connector, dust shield, and reassemble. Handle halogen bulbs by the base only.
How do I jump-start the Mercury Sable 2002?
Use a 12-volt booster battery. Connect the positive (+) cable to the positive terminal of the discharged battery, then to the positive terminal of the booster battery. Connect the negative (-) cable to the booster battery negative terminal, then to a metal engine part away from the discharged battery. Start the booster vehicle, then start the Sable. Disconnect cables in reverse order.
What is the correct procedure for changing a tire?
1. Park on a level surface, set parking brake, and place wheel chocks. 2. Remove spare tire and jack. 3. Loosen lug nuts slightly before jacking. 4. Position jack at the correct lifting point and raise vehicle. 5. Remove lug nuts and wheel. 6. Mount spare, tighten lug nuts by hand, lower vehicle, then torque to 135 N·m (100 lb·ft) in a star pattern.
Why does my CD changer skip or not play discs?
Skipping can be due to rough roads, scratched or dirty discs. Ensure discs are clean and undamaged. The CD player may not work if the internal temperature exceeds 60°C (140°F); let it cool. Also verify discs are inserted label-side down and that the magazine is fully locked. Only use the supplied magazine.
How do I set the speed control (cruise control)?
Press the ON button. Accelerate to at least 48 km/h (30 mph). Press SET+ to set the desired speed. To increase speed, press SET+ or tap the accelerator; to decrease, press SET- or tap the brake. To disengage, press OFF or apply the brake. The system will not operate in N (Neutral).
What does the 'Service Engine Soon' light mean?
The light indicates a potential emission system malfunction. If it is solid, a temporary issue may exist (e.g., loose fuel cap). If blinking, engine misfire is occurring, which can damage the catalytic converter. Drive moderately and have the vehicle serviced soon. The light will turn off after three driving cycles if the issue is resolved.
How do I use the Electronic Automatic Temperature Control (EATC)?
Press AUTO and set the desired temperature (between 18°C/65°F and 29°C/85°F). The system automatically controls fan speed and airflow direction. You can override fan speed manually or select specific modes (e.g., floor, defrost). For maximum cooling, set temperature to 16°C (60°F); for maximum heating, set to 32°C (90°F).

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USER MANUAL Sable (2002) Mercury

Safety and environment protection 5

Symbol glossary 8

Instrument Cluster 10

Warning and control lights 10

Gauges 16

Entertainment Systems 19

AM/FM stereo cassette 19

AM/FM stereo with CD 26

CD changer 31

Climate Controls 36

Manual heating and air conditioning 36

Electronic automatic temperature control 39

Lights 47

Headlamps 47

Bulb replacement 52

Driver Controls 63

Windshield wiper/washer control 63

Steering wheel adjustment 65

Power windows 66

Mirrors 70

Speed control 72

Locks and Security 83

Keys 83

Locks 83

Anti-theft system 85

Table of Contents

Seating and Safety Restraints 99

Seating 99

Safety restraints 104

Air bags 119

Child restraints 126

Driving 136

Starting 136

Brakes 141

Traction control/AdvanceTrac 144

Transmission operation 146

Vehicle loading 152

Trailer towing 154

Recreational towing 157

Roadside Emergencies 158

Getting roadside assistance158
Hazard flasher switch159
Fuel pump shut-off switch159
Fuses and relays161
Changing tires167
Jump starting171
Wrecker towing176

Customer Assistance 177

The dispute settlement board180
Utilizing the mediation/arbitration183
Getting assistance outside the U.S. and Canada183
Ordering additional owner's literature184
Reporting safety defects (U.S. only)186

Cleaning 187

Cleaning your vehicle187
Underbody preservation193

Table of Contents

Maintenance and Specifications 195

Hood 196

Engine compartment 197

Engine oil 200

Battery 203

Fuel information 210

Part numbers 230

Refill capacities 231

Lubricant specifications 233

Engine data 235

Vehicle dimensions 235

Accessories 239

Index 242

All rights reserved. Reproduction by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system or translation in whole or part is not permitted without written authorization from Ford Motor Company. Ford may change the contents without notice and without incurring obligation.

Copyright © 2001 Ford Motor Company

Introduction

The following warning may be required by California law:

CALIFORNIA Proposition 65 Warning

Mercury Sable (2002) - CALIFORNIA Proposition 65 Warning - 1

WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to state of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. In addition, certain fluids contained in vehicles and certain products of component wear contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations on acquiring your new Mercury. Please take the time to get well acquainted with your vehicle by reading this handbook. The more you know and understand about your vehicle the greater the safety and pleasure you will derive from driving it.

For more information on Ford Motor Company and its products visit the following website:

In the United States: www.ford.com

In Canada: www.ford.ca

In Mexico: www.ford.com.mx

In Australia: www.ford.com.au

Additional owner information is given in separate publications.

Introduction

Mercury Sable (2002) - Introduction - 1

This Owner's Guide describes every option and model variant available and therefore some of the items covered may not apply for particular vehicle. Furthermore, due to printing cycles it may be options before they are generally available.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Introduction - 2

Remember to pass on the Owner's Guide when reselling the vehicle. It is an integral part of the vehicle.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Introduction - 3

Fuel pump shut-off switch In the event of an accident the safety switch will automatically cut off the fuel supply to the e. The switch can also be activated through sudden vibration (collision when parking). To reset the switch, refer to the Fuel to shut-off switch in the Roadside emergencies chapter.

SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION

Mercury Sable (2002) - SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION - 1

Warning symbols in this guide

How can you reduce the risk of personal injury and prevent possible damage to others, your vehicle and its equipment? In this guide, answers to such questions are contained in comments highlighted by the warning triangle symbol. These comments should be read and observed.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Warning symbols in this guide - 1

Warning symbols on your vehicle

When you see this symbol, it is imperative that you consult the relevant section of this guide before touching or attempting adjustment of any kind.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Warning symbols on your vehicle - 1

Introduction

Protecting the environment

We must all play our part in protecting the environment. Correct vehicle usage and the authorized disposal of waste cleaning and lubrication materials are significant steps towards this aim. Information in this respect is highlighted in this guide with the tree symbol.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Protecting the environment - 1

BREAKING-IN YOUR VEHICLE

There are no particular guidelines for breaking-in your vehicle. During the first 1 600 km (1 000 miles) of driving, vary speeds frequently. This is recommended to give the moving parts a chance to break in.

SPECIAL NOTICES

Emission warranty

The New Vehicle Limited Warranty includes Bumper-to-Bumper Coverage, Safety Restraint Coverage, Corrosion Coverage, and 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel Engine Coverage. In addition, your vehicle is eligible for Emissions Defect and Emissions Performance Warranties. For a detailed description of what is covered and what is not covered, refer to the Warranty Guide that is provided to you along with your Owner's Guide.

Introduction

Special instructions

For your added safety, your vehicle is fitted with sophisticated electronic controls.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Special instructions - 1

By operating other electronic equipment (e.g. mobile telephone without exterior aerial) electromagnetic fields can occur which cause malfunctions of the vehicle electronics. Therefore you should have the instructions of the equipment manufacturers.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Special instructions - 2

Please read the section Air bag in the Seating and safety restraints chapter. Failure to follow the specific warnings and actions could result in personal injury.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Special instructions - 3

Rear facing child or baby seats should NEVER be used in front of a passenger side air bag.

MIDDLE EAST/NORTH AFRICA VEHICLE SPECIFIC INFORMATION

For your particular global region, your vehicle may be equipped with features and options that are different from the ones that are described in this Owner Guide; therefore, a supplement has been supplied that complements this book. By referring to the pages in the provided supplement, you can properly identify those features, recommendations and specifications that are unique to your vehicle. Refer to this Owner Guide for all other required information and warnings.

Introduction

These are some of the symbols you may see on your vehicle.

Vehicle Symbol Glossary

Safety Alert

Mercury Sable (2002) - Vehicle Symbol Glossary - 1

See Owner's Guide

Fasten Safety Belt Air Bag

Mercury Sable (2002) - Vehicle Symbol Glossary - 2

Air Bag-Side Child Seat

Mercury Sable (2002) - Vehicle Symbol Glossary - 3

Child Seat Installation Warning

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Child Seat Tether Anchorage

Brake System Anti-Lock Brake System

Brake Fluid - Non-Petroleum Based

Mercury Sable (2002) - Vehicle Symbol Glossary - 5

Traction Control

AdvanceTrac Master Lighting Switch

Mercury Sable (2002) - Vehicle Symbol Glossary - 6

Hazard Warning Flasher Fog Lamps-Front

Mercury Sable (2002) - Vehicle Symbol Glossary - 7

Fuse Compartment Fuel Pump Reset

Windshield Wash/Wipe

Mercury Sable (2002) - Vehicle Symbol Glossary - 8

Windshield Defrost/Demist

Rear Window Defrost/Demist

Mercury Sable (2002) - Vehicle Symbol Glossary - 9

Power Windows Front/Rear

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Introduction

Vehicle Symbol Glossary

Power Window Lockout

Interior Luggage Compartment Release Symbol

Engine Oil Engine Coolant

Mercury Sable (2002) - Vehicle Symbol Glossary - 1

Mercury Sable (2002) - Vehicle Symbol Glossary - 2

Mercury Sable (2002) - Vehicle Symbol Glossary - 3

Child Safety Door Lock/Unlock

Panic Alarm

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Engine Coolant Temperature

Battery

Mercury Sable (2002) - Vehicle Symbol Glossary - 7

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Do Not Open When Hot

Avoid Smoking, Flames, or Sparks

Mercury Sable (2002) - Vehicle Symbol Glossary - 9

Mercury Sable (2002) - Vehicle Symbol Glossary - 10

Battery Acid Explosive Gas

Fan Warning Power Steering Fluid

Mercury Sable (2002) - Vehicle Symbol Glossary - 11

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Emission System

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Maintain Correct Fluid Level

Engine Air Filter

Jack Check fuel cap

Low tire warning

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Passenger Compartment Air Filter

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Instrument Cluster

WARNING LIGHTS AND CHIMES

FUEL DOOR H E C 20° 100 100 80 60 40 30 20 10 5 4 3 2 1 RPMs 1000 1 6 7 8 9 10 120 120 PRND 1

Warning lights and gauges can alert you to a vehicle condition that may become serious enough to cause expensive repairs. A warning light may illuminate when a problem exists with one of your vehicle's functions. Many lights will illuminate when you start your vehicle to make sure the bulb works. If any light remains on after starting the vehicle, have the respective system inspected immediately.

Service engine soon

The illuminates briefly to ensure the system is functional. If it comes on after the engine is started, one of the engine's emission control

Mercury Sable (2002) - Service engine soon - 1

systems may be malfunctioning. The light may illuminate without a driveability concern being noted. The vehicle will usually be drivable and will not require towing.

Light turns on solid:

Temporary malfunctions may cause your light to illuminate. Examples are:

  1. The vehicle has run out of fuel.
  2. Poor fuel quality or water in the fuel.
  3. The fuel cap may not have been properly installed and securely tightened.

These temporary malfunctions can be corrected by filling the fuel tank with high quality fuel of the recommended octane and/or properly installing and securely tightening the fuel cap. After three driving cycles without these or any other temporary malfunctions present, the light should turn off. (A driving cycle consists of a cold engine startup followed by mixed city/highway driving.) No additional vehicle service is required.

Instrument Cluster

If the light remains on, have your vehicle serviced at the first available opportunity.

NOTE: The light will illuminate if vehicle refueling is conducted with the engine running.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Instrument Cluster - 1

Never refuel vehicle with the engine running.

Light is blinking:

Engine misfire is occurring which could damage your catalytic converter. You should drive in a moderate fashion (avoid heavy acceleration and deceleration) and have your vehicle serviced at the first available opportunity.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Light is blinking: - 1

Under engine misfire conditions, excessive exhaust temperatures could damage the catalytic converter, the fuel system, interior coverings or other vehicle components, possibly causing a fire.

Check fuel cap

Illuminates when the fuel cap is not installed correctly. Check the fuel cap for proper installation. When the fuel filler cap is properly re-installed, the light(s) will turn off after a period of normal driving.

Continuing to operate the vehicle with the check fuel cap light on, can activate the Service Engine Soon/Check Engine warning light.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Check fuel cap - 1

It may take a long period of time for the system to detect an improperly installed fuel filler cap.

For more information, refer to Fuel filler cap in the Maintenance and specifications chapter.

Instrument Cluster

Brake system warning

To confirm the brake system warning light is functional, it will momentarily illuminate when the ignition is turned to the ON position

(alternatively for some vehicles

when the ignition is moved from the ON position to START position, the light will momentarily illuminate prior to reaching the START position). It also illuminates if the parking brake is engaged. If the brake system warning light does not illuminate as described, seek service immediately illumination after the parking brake is released indicates low brake fluid level or a brake system malfunction and the brake system should be serviced immediately by a qualified technician.

Refer to Brakes in the Driving chapter for more information.

Anti-lock brake system (ABS) (If equipped)

To confirm the anti-lock brake system (ABS) warning light is functional it will momentarily illuminate when the ignition is turned to the ON position

Mercury Sable (2002) - Anti-lock brake system (ABS) (If equipped) - 1

Mercury Sable (2002) - Anti-lock brake system (ABS) (If equipped) - 2

(alternatively for some vehicles when the ignition is moved from the ON position to the START position, the light will momentarily illuminate just prior to reaching the START position). If the light remains on, continues to flash or fails to illuminate, have the ABS serviced immediately. If the ABS light remains on, it means the anti-lock brake system has malfunctioned and is disabled, however, the normal brake system will still function unless the brake warning light also remains illuminated and parking brake is off. Refer to Brakes in the Driving chapter for more information.

Safety belt

Illuminates to remind you to fasten your safety belts. For more information, refer to the Seating and safety restraints chapter.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Safety belt - 1

Instrument Cluster

Air bag readiness

Illuminates to confirm that the air bags (front or side) are operational. If the light fails to illuminate, continues to flash or remains on, have the system serviced immediately.

Charging system

Illuminates when the battery is not charging properly.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Charging system - 1

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Engine oil pressure

Illuminates when the oil pressure falls below the normal range. Check the oil level and add oil if needed. Refer to Engine oil in the Maintenance and specifications chapter.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Engine oil pressure - 1
LOW COOLANT

Low coolant (if equipped)

Illuminates when the coolant level in the coolant reservoir is low and more needs to be added. For more information on adding engine coolant, refer to Engine coolant in the Maintenance and specifications chapter.

Traction Control ^™ active (if equipped)

Illuminates when the Traction Control ^134 system is active. It will be lit for a minimum of four seconds or for the duration of the Traction Control ^134 event.

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For more information, refer to the Driving chapter.

Instrument Cluster

Low fuel

Illuminates when the fuel level in the fuel tank is at, or near, empty (refer to Fuel gauge in this chapter for more information).

Speed control (if equipped)

Illuminates when the speed control is activated.

Check transaxle

Illuminates when a transaxle problem has been detected and shifting may be restricted. If this lamp remains on, have your vehicle serviced immediately.

Turn signals

Illuminates when the turn signals or the hazard lights are turned on. If the lights stay on continuously or flash faster, check for a burned-out bulb.

High beams

Illuminates when the high beam headlamps are turned on.

Door ajar

Illuminates when any door is open (or not fully closed).

Mercury Sable (2002) - Door ajar - 1
CRUISE

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Instrument Cluster

Anti-theft system (if equipped)

Refer to Perimeter alarm system (if equipped) and SecuriLock ^™ passive anti-theft system in the Locks and Security chapter.

THEFT

Safety belt warning chime

Sounds to remind you to fasten your safety belts.

BeltMinder chime

Sounds intermittently to remind you to fasten your safety belts.

Supplemental restraint system (SRS) warning chime

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Sounds when a malfunction in the supplemental restraint system (front or side airbags) has been detected. Have the supplemental restraint system inspected immediately.

Headlamps on warning chime

Sounds when the headlamps or parking lamps are on, the key is removed from the ignition and the driver's door is opened.

Key-in-ignition warning chime

Sounds when the key is left in the ignition and the driver's door is opened.

Park brake warning chime

Sounds when the parking brake is set, the engine is running and the transaxle is not in P (Park) or N (Neutral). The chime will shut off when the parking brake is disengaged.

Instrument Cluster

GAUGES
FUEL 000R > H E 20° 100 100 180+ MPH 300V PR N D D 1 RPMs 1000 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80

Engine coolant temperature gauge

Indicates the temperature of the engine coolant. At normal operating temperature, the needle remains within the normal area (the area between the "H" and "C"). If it enters the red section, the engine is overheating. Stop the vehicle as soon as safely possible, switch off the engine immediately and let the engine cool. Refer to Engine coolant in the Maintenance and specifications chapter.

H C

Never remove the coolant reservoir cap while the engine is running or hot. Steam and scalding liquid from a hot cooling system can burn you badly.

This gauge indicates the temperature of the engine coolant, not the coolant level. If the coolant is not at its proper level the gauge indication will not be accurate.

Instrument Cluster

Fuel gauge

Displays approximately how much fuel is in the fuel tank. The fuel gauge may vary slightly when the vehicle is in motion or on a grade.

When refueling the vehicle from empty indication, the amount of fuel that can be added will be less than the advertised capacity due to the reserve fuel.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Fuel gauge - 1

Speedometer

Indicates the current vehicle speed.

60 40 0 0 0 0 80 100 140° 20 000000 100 +20 180° MPH km/h PRND01

Odometer

Registers the total kilometers (miles) of the vehicle.

60 40 0 0 0 0 80 100 60 140° 20° 000000 *20 MPH km/h 180* 120 PR N D D 1

Instrument Cluster

Trip odometer

Registers the kilometers (miles) of individual journeys. To reset, depress the control.

60 40 80 60 140° 20 000000 100 20 180° MPH km/h 120 PR N D 0 1

Tachometer

Indicates the engine speed in revolutions per minute.

Driving with your tachometer pointer continuously at the top of the scale may damage the engine.

RPMx1000 6

Entertainment Systems

MACH® AUDIO SYSTEM WITH AM/FM STEREO/CASSETTE
VOL PUSH ON AM H BASS I-M M TRCB BAI TADE SLEK LJ AP- CD TUNE- DISC 1.6 RCW 1 FF 2 SIDE 1.2 3 COMP 4 SIUFF_C 5 SCAN

Volume/power control

Press the control to turn the audio system on or off.

Turn control to raise or lower volume.

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flowchart
graph TD
    A["Circle"] -->|VO_PUSH_ON| B["Circle"]
    B -->|VO_PUSH_ON| A

If the volume is set above a certain level and the ignition is turned off, the volume will come back on at a "nominal" listening level when the ignition switch is turned back on. If you wish to maintain your preset

Entertainment Systems

volume level, turn the audio system off with the power control before switching off the ignition.

Bass/treble adjust

  • The bass adjust control allows you to increase or decrease the audio system's bass output.
  • The treble adjust control allows you to increase or decrease the audio system's treble output.

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Mercury Sable (2002) - Bass/treble adjust - 2

Speaker balance/fade adjust

  • Speaker sound distribution can be adjusted between the right and left speakers.
  • Speaker sound can be adjusted between the front and rear speakers.

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Seek function

The seek function control works in radio, tape or CD mode.

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Seek function in radio mode

  • Press to find the next listenable station down the frequency band.
  • Press ▶ to find the next listenable station up the frequency band.

Seek function in tape mode

  • Press to listen to the previous selection on the tape.
  • Press ▶ to listen to the next selection on the tape.

Seek function in CD mode

- Press to seek to the previous track of the current disc. If a selection has been playing for three seconds or more and you press ▶, the CD changer will replay that selection from the beginning.

Entertainment Systems

- Press the seek forward to the next track of the current disc. After the last track has been completed, the first track of the current disc will automatically replay.

Scan function

The scan function works in radio, tape or CD mode.

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Scan function in radio mode

Press the SCAN control to hear a brief sampling of all listenable stations on the frequency band. Press the control again to stop the scan mode.

Scan function in tape mode

Press the SCAN control to hear a short sampling of all selections on the tape. (The tape scans in a forward direction. At the end of the tape's first side, direction automatically reverses to the opposite side of the tape.) To stop on a particular selection, press the control again.

Scan function in CD mode

Press the SCAN control to hear a short sampling of all selections on the CD. (The CD scans in a forward direction, wrapping back to the first track at the end of the CD.) To stop on a particular selection, press the control again.

AM/FM select

The AM/FM select control works in radio, tape and CD modes (if equipped). Press the AM or FM control to enter into radio mode.

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AM/FM select in radio mode

This control allows you to select AM or FM frequency bands. Press the control to switch between AM, FM1 or FM2 memory preset stations.

Pressing the AM or FM controls when the ignition is turned on will also engage the radio.

AM/FM select in tape mode

Press this control to stop tape play and begin radio play.

Entertainment Systems

AM/FM select in CD mode

Press this control to stop CD play and begin radio play.

You can switch from CD play to tape play by simply inserting a tape into the cassette deck.

Radio station memory preset

The radio is equipped with six station memory preset controls. These controls can be used to select up to six preset AM stations and twelve FM stations (six in FM1 and six in FM2).

Setting memory preset stations

  1. Select the frequency band with the AM/FM select control.

  2. Select a station. Refer to Tune adjust or Seek function for more information on selecting a station.

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RFW 1 FF 2 SIDE 1-2 3 [□] 4 COMP 5 SHUFFI F 6

  1. Press and hold a memory preset control until the sound returns, indicating the station is held in memory on the control you selected.

Setting the clock

To set the hour, press and hold the hour (H) control. When the desired hour appears, release the control.

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To set the minute, press and hold the minute (M) control. When the desired minute appears, release the control.

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Your vehicle is equipped with a special feature that allows you to access clock mode when the vehicle is not running. Press the H or M control to engage the clock at this time.

Entertainment Systems

Tune disc adjust

The tune control works in radio or CD mode.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Tune disc adjust - 1

Tune adjust in radio mode

  • Press to move to the next frequency down the band (whether or not a listenable station is located there). Hold the control to move through the frequencies quickly.
  • Press ▶ to move to the next frequency up the band (whether or not a listenable station is located there). Hold for quick movement.

Tune adjust for CD mode

  • Press the to select the previous disc in the CD changer. (Play will begin on the first track of the disc unless the CD changer is in shuffle mode. Refer to Shuffle feature for more information. Hold the control to continue reversing through the disc.
  • Press ▶ to select the next disc in the CD changer. Hold the control to fast-forward through the remaining discs.

Inserting a tape

Push only slightly when inserting a cassette tape (with the open edge to the right). A cassette deck

Mercury Sable (2002) - Inserting a tape - 1

loading mechanism pulls the tape in the rest of the way.

You can switch from CD to tape play by inserting a tape into the cassette deck.

Entertainment Systems

Tape/CD select

- Pressing the TAPE or CD control when the ignition is on will engage the system if a tape or CD is present in the audio system.

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  • To begin tape play (with a tape loaded into the audio system) while in the radio or CD mode, press the TAPE control. Press the control during rewind or fast forward to stop the rewind or fast forward function.
  • To begin CD play (if CDs are loaded in the CD changer), press the CD button. The first track of the first disc will begin playing. After that CD play will begin where it stopped last.

Rewind

The rewind control works in tape and CD modes.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Rewind - 1

  • In tape mode, radio play will continue until rewind is stopped (with the TAPE or REW control) or the beginning of the tape is reached.
  • In CD mode, pressing the REW control for less than three seconds results in a slow reverse. Pressing the control for more than three seconds results in fast reverse.

Fast forward

The fast forward control works in tape and CD modes.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Fast forward - 1

  • In the tape mode, tape direction will automatically reverse when the end of the tape is reached.
  • In CD mode, pressing the control for less than three seconds results in slow forward action. Pressing the control for more than three seconds results in fast forward action.
  • You can cancel the fast forward mode by pressing TAPE, or the FF control.

Entertainment Systems

Tape direction select

Press SIDE 1–2 to play the alternate side of a tape.

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Dolby® noise reduction

Dolby ^® noise reduction operates only in tape mode. Dolby ^® noise reduction reduces the amount of hiss and static during tape playback.

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Press the ☐ control to activate (and deactivate) Dolby® noise reduction.

Dolby ^® noise reduction system is manufactured under license from Dolby ^® Laboratories Licensing Corporation. “Dolby ^® ” and the double-D symbol are registered trademarks of Dolby ^® Laboratories Licensing Corporation.

Compression adjust

Compression adjust brings soft and loud CD passages together for a more consistent listening level.

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Press the COMP control to activate and deactivate compression adjust.

Shuffle feature

The shuffle feature operates in CD mode and plays all tracks on the current disc in random order.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Shuffle feature - 1

If equipped with the CD changer, the shuffle feature continues to the next disc after all tracks are played.

Press the SHUFFLE control to start this feature. Random order play will continue until the SHUFFLE control is pressed again.

Entertainment Systems

AUDIO SYSTEM WITH AM/FM STEREO/SINGLE CD PLAYER
VOL PUSH ON AM IM H M ←BASS ←RI-B ←BAL ←FADC ←TUNC DISC 1.6 FJ CD RI-W 1 FF 2 SIDC 1.2 3 □□ 4 COMP 5 SHUFFI 6 SCAN

Volume/power control

Press the control to turn the audio system on or off.

Turn control to raise or lower volume.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Volume/power control - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    A["VO_PUSH_ON"] --> B["Arrow"]
    B --> C["VO_PUSH_ON"]
    C --> A

If the volume is set above a certain level and the ignition is turned off, the volume will come back on at a "nominal" listening level when the ignition switch is turned back on. If you wish to maintain your preset

Entertainment Systems

volume level, turn the audio system off with the power control before switching off the ignition.

Bass/treble adjust

  • The bass adjust control allows you to increase or decrease the audio system's bass output.
  • The treble adjust control allows you to increase or decrease the audio system's treble output.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Bass/treble adjust - 1

Mercury Sable (2002) - Bass/treble adjust - 2

Speaker balance/fade adjust

  • Speaker sound distribution can be adjusted between the right and left speakers.
  • Speaker sound can be adjusted between the front and rear speakers.

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Seek function

The seek function control works in radio or CD mode.

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Seek function in radio mode

  • Press to find the next listenable station down the frequency band.
  • Press ▶ to find the next listenable station up the frequency band.

Seek function in CD mode

  • Press to seek to the previous track of the current disc. If a selection has been playing for three seconds or more and you press ▶, the CD changer will replay that selection from the beginning.
  • Press to seek forward to the next track of the current disc. After the last track has been completed, the first track of the current disc will automatically replay.

Entertainment Systems

Scan function

The scan function works in radio or CD mode.

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Scan function in radio mode

Press the SCAN control to hear a brief sampling of all listenable stations on the frequency band. Press the control again to stop the scan mode.

Scan function in CD mode

Press the SCAN control to hear a short sampling of all selections on the CD. (The CD scans in a forward direction, wrapping back to the first track at the end of the CD.) To stop on a particular selection, press the control again.

AM/FM select

The AM/FM select control works in radio, and CD modes (if equipped). Press the AM or FM control to enter into radio mode.

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AM/FM select in radio mode

This control allows you to select AM or FM frequency bands. Press the control to switch between AM, FM1 or FM2 memory preset stations.

Pressing the AM or FM controls when the ignition is turned on will also engage the radio.

AM/FM select in CD mode

Press this control to stop CD play and begin radio play.

Radio station memory preset

The radio is equipped with six station memory preset controls. These controls can be used to select up to six preset AM stations and twelve FM stations (six in FM1 and six in FM2).

Entertainment Systems

Setting memory preset stations

  1. Select the frequency band with the AM/FM select control.
  2. Select a station. Refer to Tune adjust or Seek function for more information on selecting a station.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Setting memory preset stations - 1

Mercury Sable (2002) - Setting memory preset stations - 2

flowchart
graph TD
    A["REW\n1"] --> B["rr\n2"]
    B --> C["SIDF 1.2\n3"]
    C --> D["□□4"]
    D --> E["COMP\n5"]
    E --> F["SHURPLE\n6"]
  1. Press and hold a memory preset control until the sound returns, indicating the station is held in memory on the control you selected.

Setting the clock

To set the hour, press and hold the hour (H) control. When the desired hour appears, release the control.

To set the minute, press and hold the minute (M) control. When the desired minute appears, release the control.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Setting the clock - 1

Your vehicle is equipped with a special feature that allows you to access clock mode when the vehicle is not running. Press the H or M control to engage the clock at this time.

Tune disc adjust

The tune control works in radio or CD mode.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Tune disc adjust - 1

Tune adjust in radio mode

- Press to move to the next frequency down the band (whether or not a listenable station is located there). Hold the control to move through the frequencies quickly.

Entertainment Systems

- Press to move to the next frequency up the band (whether or not a listenable station is located there). Hold for quick movement.

Tune adjust for CD mode

  • Press the to select the previous disc in the CD changer. (Play will begin on the first track of the disc unless the CD changer is in shuffle mode. Refer to Shuffle feature for more information. Hold the control to continue reversing through the disc.
  • Press ▶ to select the next disc in the CD changer. Hold the control to fast-forward through the remaining discs.

CD select

- Pressing the CD control when the ignition is on will engage the system if a CD is present in the audio system.

Mercury Sable (2002) - CD select - 1

  • To begin CD play, press the CD control. The first track of the first disc will begin playing. After that CD play will begin where it stopped last.
  • Press the CD control again to toggle between single CD mode and CD changer mode (if available).

Do not insert any promotional (odd shaped or sized) discs, or discs with removable labels into the CD player as jamming may occur.

Rewind

The rewind control works in tape and CD modes.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Rewind - 1

- Pressing the REW control for less than three seconds results in a slow reverse. Pressing the control for more than three seconds results in fast reverse.

Entertainment Systems

Fast forward

The fast forward control works in tape and CD modes.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Fast forward - 1

  • Pressing the control for less than three seconds results in slow forward action. Pressing the control for more than three seconds results in fast forward action.
  • You can cancel the fast forward mode by pressing TAPE, or the FF control.

Compression adjust

Compression adjust brings soft and loud CD passages together for a more consistent listening level.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Compression adjust - 1

Press the COMP control to activate and deactivate compression adjust.

Shuffle feature

The shuffle feature operates in CD mode and plays all tracks on the current disc in random order.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Shuffle feature - 1

If equipped with the CD changer, the shuffle feature continues to the next disc after all tracks are played.

Press the SHUFFLE control to start this feature. Random order play will continue until the SHUFFLE control is pressed again.

CD CHANGER (IF EQUIPPED)

Your CD changer is either located in the trunk, the console or the right side cargo area storage compartment.

  1. Slide the door to access the CD changer magazine.

Mercury Sable (2002) - CD CHANGER (IF EQUIPPED) - 1

natural_image Simple 3D diagram of a rectangular object with internal channel and directional arrow (no text or symbols)

Entertainment Systems

  1. Press t▲eject the magazine.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Entertainment Systems - 1

natural_image Diagram of a device with a lid and arrow indicator (no text or symbols)
  1. Turn the magazine (A) over.

  2. Using the disc holder release knob (C), pull the disc holder (B) out of the magazine.

A B C

Mercury Sable (2002) - Entertainment Systems - 3

natural_image Technical line drawing of a mechanical device with an inset close-up showing a component detail (no text or symbols)

If you pull too hard on the disc holder, the disc holder may come completely out of the magazine. If this happens, reinsert the disc holder back into the magazine while pressing on the lever (A).

Entertainment Systems

  1. Line up the CD with the groove of the disc holder. Ensure that the label on the CD faces downwards.
  2. Press in on the disc holder until it locks securely into the magazine. If the disc holders are not fully locked into the magazine, the unit will not operate.

Ensure that the disc holder is evenly inserted and at the same level as the magazine (A). The unit will not operate if the disc holder is not inserted at the same level (B).

Mercury Sable (2002) - Entertainment Systems - 1

natural_image Diagram of a CD or DVD disc with an open case and a blue arrow pointing to it (no text or symbols present)

Mercury Sable (2002) - Entertainment Systems - 2

Mercury Sable (2002) - Entertainment Systems - 3

Radio power must be turned on to play the CDs in the changer. The magazine may be stored in the glove box when not being used.

The CD magazine may be inserted or ejected with the radio power off.

ONLY use the magazine supplied with the CD changer, other types will damage the unit.

Keep the CD changer door closed. Coins and foreign objects will damage the CD player and void your audio system warranty.

Do not insert any promotional (odd shaped or sized) discs, or discs with removable labels into the CD player as jamming may occur.

TROUBLESHOOTING THE CD CHANGER (IF EQUIPPED)

Mercury Sable (2002) - TROUBLESHOOTING THE CD CHANGER (IF EQUIPPED) - 1

The laser beam used in the compact disc player is harmful to the eyes. Do not attempt to disassemble the case.

If sound skips:

- You may be traveling on a rough road, playing badly scratched discs or the disc may be dirty. Skipping will not scratch the discs or damage the player.

Entertainment Systems

If your changer does not work, it may be that:

  • A disc is already loaded where you want to insert a disc.
  • The disc is inserted with the label surface downward.
    • The disc is dusty or defective.
  • The player's internal temperature is above 60^ (140°F). Allow the player to cool down before operating.
  • A disc with format and dimensions not within industry standards is inserted.

CLEANING COMPACT DISCS

Inspect all discs for contamination before playing. If necessary, clean discs only with an approved CD cleaner and wipe from the center out to the edge. Do not use circular motion.

CD AND CD CHANGER CARE

  • Handle discs by their edges only. Never touch the playing surface.
  • Do not expose discs to direct sunlight or heat sources for extended periods of time.
  • Do not insert more than one disc into each slot of the CD changer magazine.

Do not insert any promotional (odd shaped or sized) discs, or discs with removable labels into the CD player as jamming may occur.

CLEANING CASSETTE PLAYER (IF EQUIPPED)

Clean the tape player head with a cassette cleaning cartridge after 10 to 12 hours of play in order to maintain the best sound and operation.

CASSETTE AND CASSETTE PLAYER CARE

  • Use only cassettes that are 90 minutes long or less.
  • Do not expose tapes to direct sunlight, high humidity, extreme heat or extreme cold. Allow tapes that may have been exposed to extreme temperatures to reach a moderate temperature before playing.
  • Tighten very loose tapes by inserting a finger or pencil into the hole and turning the hub.
  • Remove loose labels before inserting tapes.

Entertainment Systems

- Do not leave tapes in the cassette player for a long time when not being played.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Canadian Radio and Telecommunications Commission(CRTC) establish the frequencies AM and FM stations may use for their broadcasts. Allowable frequencies are:

AM 530, 540–1600, 1610 kHz

FM 87.7, 87.9–107.7, 107.9 MHz

Not all frequencies are used in a given area.

RADIO RECEPTION FACTORS

Three factors can affect radio reception:

- Distance/strength. The further an FM signal travels, the weaker it is. The listenable range of the average FM station is approximately 40 km (24 miles). This range can be affected by “signal modulation.” Signal modulation is a process radio stations use to increase their strength/volume relative to other stations.

- Terrain. Hills, mountains and tall buildings between your vehicle's antenna and the radio station signal can cause FM reception problems. Static can be caused on AM stations by power lines, electric fences, traffic lights and thunderstorms. Moving away from an interfering structure (out of its “shadow”) returns your reception to normal.

- Station overload. Weak signals are sometimes captured by stronger signals when you pass a broadcast tower. A stronger signal may temporarily overtake a weaker signal and play while the weak station frequency is displayed.

The audio system automatically switches to single channel reception if it will improve the reception of a station normally received in stereo.

AUDIO SYSTEM WARRANTIES AND SERVICE

Refer to the Warranty Guide for audio system warranty information. If service is necessary, see your dealer or a qualified technician.

Climate Controls

MANUAL HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
R OFF A/C MAX A/C

Fan speed control

Mercury Sable (2002) - Fan speed control - 1

Controls the volume of air circulated in the vehicle.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Fan speed control - 2

Temperature control knob

Controls the temperature of the airflow inside the vehicle.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Temperature control knob - 1

Mode Selector Control

Controls the direction of the airflow to the inside of the vehicle.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Mode Selector Control - 1

Climate Controls

The air conditioning compressor can operate in all modes except and. However, the air conditioning will only function if the outside temperature is about 4°C (39°F) or higher.

Since the air conditioner removes considerable moisture from the air during operation, it is normal if clear water drips on the ground under the air conditioner drain while the system is working and even after you have stopped the vehicle.

- MAX A/C – Uses recirculated air to cool the vehicle. MAX A/C is noisier than A/C but more economical and will cool the inside of the vehicle faster. Airflow will be from the instrument panel registers. This mode can also be used to prevent undesirable odors from entering the vehicle.

- A/C – Uses outside air to cool the vehicle. It is quieter than MAX A/C but not as economical. Airflow will be from the instrument panel registers.

- (Panel) – Distributes outside air through the instrument panel registers. However, the air will not be cooled below the outside temperature because the air conditioning does not operate in this mode.

- OFF – Outside air is shut out and the fan will not operate. For short periods of time only, use this mode to prevent undesirable odors from entering the vehicle.

- (Panel and floor) – Distributes outside air through the instrument panel registers and the floor ducts. Heating and air conditioning capabilities are provided in this mode. For added customer comfort, when the temperature control knob is anywhere in between the full hot and full cold positions, the air distributed through the floor ducts will be slightly warmer than the air sent to the instrument panel registers.

• (Floor) – Distributes outside air through the floor ducts. However, the air will not be cooled below the outside temperature because the air conditioning does not operate in this mode.

• (Floor and defrost) – Distributes outside air through the windshield defroster ducts and the floor ducts. Heating and air conditioning capabilities are provided in this mode. For added customer comfort, the air distributed through the floor ducts will be slightly warmer than the air sent to the windshield defroster ducts. If the temperature is about 4^ C ( 39^ F) or higher, the air conditioner will automatically dehumidify the air to reduce fogging.

Climate Controls

- (Unfrost) – Distributes outside air through the windshield defroster ducts. It can be used to clear ice or fog from the windshield. If the temperature is about 4^ C ( 39^ F) or higher, the air conditioner will automatically dehumidify the air to reduce fogging.

Operating tips

  • In humid weather conditions, place the climate control system in Defrost mode before driving. This will reduce fogging on your windshield. Once the windshield has been cleared, operate the climate control system as desired.
  • To reduce humidity buildup inside the vehicle in cold weather conditions, don't drive with the climate control system in the OFF or MAX A/C position.
  • To reduce humidity buildup inside the vehicle in warm weather conditions, don't drive with the climate control system in the OFF position.
  • Under normal weather conditions, your vehicle's climate control system should be left in any position other than the MAX A/C or OFF when the vehicle is parked. This allows the vehicle to "breathe" through the outside air inlet duct.
  • Under snowy or dirty weather conditions, your vehicle's climate control system should be left in the OFF position when the vehicle is parked. This allows the climate control system to be free from contamination of outside pollutants.
  • If your vehicle has been parked with the windows closed during warm weather conditions, the air conditioner will perform more efficiently in cooling the vehicle if driven for two or three minutes with the windows open. This will force most of the hot, stale air out of the vehicle. Once the vehicle has been “aired out”, operate the climate control system as desired.
  • Do not put objects under the front seat which may interfere with the airflow to the rear seats (if equipped).
  • Remove any snow, ice or leaves from the air intake area (at the bottom of the windshield and underneath the hood).
  • Do not place objects over the defroster outlets. These objects can block airflow and reduce visibility through your windshield. Avoid

Climate Controls

placing small objects on top of the instrument panel. These objects may fall down into the defroster outlets and block airflow, in addition to, damaging the climate control system.

To aid in side window defogging/demisting in cold weather conditions:

  1. Select the position that distributes air through the Panel and Floor.
  2. Set the temperature control to full heat.
  3. Set the fan speed to full fan.
  4. Direct the outer panel vents towards the side windows.
  5. To increase airflow to the outer panel vents, close the central panel vents.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Climate Controls - 1

Do not place objects on top of the instrument panel as these objects may become projectiles in a collision or sudden stop.

ELECTRONIC AUTOMATIC TEMPERATURE CONTROL (EATC) SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
OFF OUTSIDE TEMP MAX A/C F R AUTO - TEMP +

The EATC system will maintain a selected temperature and automatically control airflow. You can override automatic operation with any of the override controls or the fan speed control.

Climate Controls

Turning the EATC on
OFF OUTSIDE TEMP MAX A/C F R AUTO - TEMP +

Press AUTO, any of the override controls or the fan speed control. The EATC will only operate when the vehicle is running.

Turning the EATC system off

Press OFF. The outside temperature function will continue to operate until the ignition is turned off.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Turning the EATC system off - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    A["OFF"] --> B["OUTSIDE TEMP"]
    C["MINI"] --> D["MAX A/C"]
    E["AUTO"] --> F["— TEMP +"]

Automatic operation

Press AUTO and select the desired temperature. The selected temperature and the word AUTO will appear in the display window. The EATC system will either heat or cool to achieve the selected temperature. The system will automatically determine fan speed, airflow location and if outside air or recirculated air is required. Fan speed remains automatic unless the fan speed control is pressed or the steering wheel fan speed control (if equipped) is pressed.

When in AUTO and weather conditions require heat, air will be sent to the floor. However, if the engine is not warm enough to provide heat, the fan will be at a low speed and the air will be directed to the windshield. In approximately 3 12 minutes or less, the fan speed will start to increase and the airflow location will change to the floor area.

Climate Controls

If unusual conditions exist (i.e.-window fogging, etc.), the manual override controls allow you to select airflow locations and the fan control allows you to adjust fan speed as necessary.

Temperature selection

The display window indicates the selected temperature, function (AUTO or one of the override controls) and manual control of fan speed (♣) if automatic fan speed is not desired.

To control the temperature, select any temperature between 18°C (65°F) and 29°C (85°F) by pressing the temperature control.

AUTO

Mercury Sable (2002) - Temperature selection - 1

- F

FAN

Mercury Sable (2002) - Temperature selection - 2

flowchart
graph TD
    A["OFF"] --> B["OUTSIDE TEMP"]
    C["RUN"] --> D["MINI"]
    E["Heating"] --> F["Heating"]
    G["MAX A/C"] --> H["Max"]
    I["AUTO"] --> J["— TEMP +"]

For continuous maximum cooling, push the temperature control until 16^ C ( 60^ F) is shown in the display window. The EATC will continue maximum cooling (disregarding the displayed temperature) until a warmer temperature is selected by pressing the temperature control.

For continuous maximum heating, push the temperature control until 32^ (90^) is shown in the display window. The EATC will continue maximum heating (disregarding the displayed temperature) until a cooler temperature is selected by pressing the temperature control.

Climate Controls

Temperature conversion
OFF OUTSIDE TEMP MAX A/C F R - + AUTO - TEMP +

Press MAX A/C and F at the same time (until the display changes) to switch between Fahrenheit and Celsius.

Fan speed (♣)

When AUTO is pressed, fan speed is adjusted automatically for existing conditions. You can override fan speed at any time. To control fan speed manually, press the fan control or the steering wheel fan speed control (if equipped) to cancel automatic fan speed

operation. Press the control up for higher fan speed or down for lower fan speed. Press the steering wheel control (if equipped) up for higher fan speed or down for lower fan speed.

The display will show ♣ and a bar graph to indicate manual fan operation and relative speed.

Diagram showing four labeled icons with symbols: a fan, a battery, a leaf, and a plus sign.

AUTO 72 ° F FAN * . . .

To return to automatic fan operation, press AUTO.

Climate Controls

Manual override controls
OFF OUTSIDE TEMP MAX A/C F R AUTO - TEMP +

The override controls are located at the bottom of the EATC and allow you to determine where airflow is directed. To return to full automatic control, press AUTO.

The air conditioning compressor can operate in all modes except ⚡. It will also operate only when required when AUTO has been selected. However, the air conditioning will only function if the outside temperature is about 4°C (39°F) or higher.

Since the air conditioner removes considerable moisture from the air during operation, it is normal if clear water drips on the ground under the air conditioner drain while the system is working and even after you have stopped the vehicle.

  • F -Distributes outside air through the windshield defroster ducts. It can be used to clear ice or fog from the windshield. If the outside air temperature is about 4°C (39°F) or higher, the air conditioner will automatically dehumidify the air to reduce fogging.
    • R (Rear Window Defroster) — Refer to Rear Window Defroster.
    • (Floor and defrost) -Distributes outside air through the windshield defroster ducts and the floor ducts. Heating and air conditioning capabilities are provided in this mode. The air will be heated or cooled based on the temperature selection. For added customer comfort, the air distributed through the floor ducts will be slightly warmer than the air sent to the windshield defroster ducts. If the temperature is about 4°C (39°F) or higher, the air conditioner will automatically dehumidify the air to reduce fogging.

Climate Controls

  • (Floor)-Distributes outside air through the floor ducts. Heating and air conditioning capabilities are provided in this mode. The air will be heated or cooled based on temperature selection.
  • (Panel and floor) -Distributes outside air through the instrument panel registers and the floor ducts. Heating and air conditioning capabilities are provided in this mode. The air will be heated or cooled based on the temperature selection. For added customer comfort, the air distributed through the floor ducts will be slightly warmer than the air sent to the instrument panel registers.
  • (Panel)-Distributes outside air through the instrument panel registers. However, the air cannot be cooled below the outside temperature because the air conditioning does not operate in this mode.
  • MAX A/C-Uses recirculated air to cool the vehicle. The temperature will remain unchanged and air will be cooled based on the selected temperature. To exit, press AUTOMATIC or any other override controls. MAX A/C is noisier than normal A/C but more economical and will cool the inside of the vehicle faster. Airflow is from the instrument panel registers. This mode can also be used to prevent undesirable odors from entering the vehicle.
  • OFF-Outside air is shut out and the fan will not operate. For short periods of time only, use this mode to reduce undesirable odors from entering the vehicle.

Displaying outside temperature

Press OUTSIDE TEMP to display the outside air temperature. It will be displayed until OUTSIDE TEMP is pressed again or until any other control is pressed. When the EATC system is off and OUTSIDE TEMP is pressed, the outside temperature will only be displayed for four seconds.

OFF OUTSIDE TEMP MAX A/C AUTO - TEMP +

The outside temperature reading is most accurate when the vehicle is moving. Higher readings may be obtained when the vehicle is not moving. The readings that you get may not agree with temperatures given on the radio due to differences in vehicle and station locations.

Climate Controls

Operating tips

  • In humid weather conditions, place the climate control system in F before driving. This will reduce fogging on your windshield. Once the windshield has been cleared, operate the climate control system as desired.
  • To reduce humidity buildup inside the vehicle in cold weather conditions, don't drive with the climate control system in the OFF or MAX A/C position.
  • To reduce humidity buildup inside the vehicle in warm weather conditions, don't drive with the climate control system in the OFF position.
  • Under normal weather conditions, your vehicle's climate control system should be left in any position other than MAX A/C or OFF when the vehicle is parked. This allows the vehicle to "breathe" through the outside air inlet duct.
  • Under snowy or dirty weather conditions, your vehicle's climate control system should be left in the OFF position when the vehicle is parked. This allows the climate control system to be free from contamination of outside pollutants.
  • If your vehicle has been parked with the windows closed during warm weather conditions, the air conditioner will perform more efficiently in cooling the vehicle if driven for two or three minutes with the windows open. This will force most of the hot, stale air out of the vehicle. Once the vehicle has been “aired out”, operate the climate control system as desired.
  • Do not place objects under the front seat that will interfere with the airflow to the rear seats.
  • Remove any snow, ice or leaves from the air intake area at the base of the windshield.
  • Do not place objects over the defroster outlets. These objects can block airflow and reduce your ability to see through your windshield. Avoid placing small objects on top of the instrument panel. These objects may fall down into the defroster outlets and block airflow, in addition to damaging the climate control system.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Operating tips - 1

Do not place objects on top of the instrument panel, as these objects may become projectiles in a collision or sudden stop.

Climate Controls

REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER

The rear defroster control is located on the instrument panel.

Press the rear defroster control to clear the rear window of thin ice and fog.

- A small LED will illuminate when the rear defroster is activated.

Mercury Sable (2002) - REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER - 1

The ignition must be in the ON position to operate the rear window defroster.

The defroster turns off automatically after 10 minutes or when the ignition is turned to the OFF position. To manually turn off the defroster before 10 minutes have passed, push the control again.

Activating the rear window defroster will also activate the heated mirrors (if equipped). For more information refer to Heated outside mirrors in the Driver controls chapter.

CABIN AIR FILTER (IF EQUIPPED)

Your vehicle may be equipped with a cabin air filter. This particulate air filtration system is designed to reduce the concentration of airborne particles such as dust, spores and pollen in the air being supplied to the interior of the vehicle. The particulate filtration system gives the following benefits to customers:

  • Improves the customer's driving comfort by reducing particle concentration
  • Improves the interior compartment cleanliness
  • Protects the climate control components from particle deposits

The filter is located just in front of the windshield under the cowl grille on the passenger side of the vehicle.

For more information, or to replace the filter, contact your Ford, Lincoln or Mercury Dealer.

Lights

HEADLAMP CONTROL

Mercury Sable (2002) - HEADLAMP CONTROL - 1

Rotate the headlamp control to the first position to turn on the parking lamps. Rotate to the second position to turn on the headlamps.

溢 ○ Pt 扣 ∅

Autolamp control (if equipped)

Mercury Sable (2002) - Autolamp control (if equipped) - 1

The autolamp system provides light sensitive automatic on-off control of the exterior lights normally controlled by the headlamp control.

The autolamp system also keeps the lights on for a fixed period of time after the ignition switch is turned to OFF.

溢 Pé ID 扣 Q 扣

  • To turn autolamps on, rotate the control counterclockwise.
  • To turn autolamps off, rotate the control clockwise to OFF.

Foglamp control (if equipped)

Mercury Sable (2002) - Foglamp control (if equipped) - 1

The headlamp control also operates the foglamps. The foglamps can be turned on only when the headlamp control is in the position and the high beams are not turned on.

Pull headlamp control towards you to turn foglamps on. The foglamp indicator light #0 will illuminate.

锁 O P ID 扣 ② 扣

Daytime running lamps (DRL) (if equipped)

Turns the headlamps on with a reduced output. To activate:

  • the ignition must be in the ON position and
  • the headlamp control is in the OFF or Parking lamps position.

Lights

Always remember to turn on your headlamps at dusk or during inclement weather. The Daytime Running Lamp (DRL) system does not activate with your tail lamps and generally may not provide adequate lighting during these conditions. Failure to activate your headlamps under these conditions may result in a collision.

High beams D

  • Push forward past detent to activate.
  • Pull toward you past detent to deactivate.

Mercury Sable (2002) - High beams  D - 1

natural_image Illustration of a handheld device with control buttons and a directional arrow (no text or symbols)

Flash to pass

Pull toward you slightly to activate and release to deactivate.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Flash to pass - 1

natural_image Diagram of a handheld device with control buttons and a blue arrow indicating direction (no text or symbols)

PANEL DIMMER CONTROL

Use to adjust the brightness of the instrument panel during headlamp and parklamp operation.

  • Rotate up to brighten.
  • Rotate down to dim.
  • Rotate to full up position (past detent/dome defeat) to turn on interior lamps.

- Rotate to full down position (past detent/dome defeat) to turn off interior lamps.

湿 O PE ID 扣 扣 Q

Lights

The dome lamp will not illuminate if the control switch is in the OFF position.

AIMING THE HEADLAMPS

The headlamps on your vehicle are properly aimed at the assembly plant. If your vehicle has been in an accident the alignment of your headlamps should be checked by a qualified service technician.

Vertical aim adjustment

  1. Park the vehicle on a level surface approximately 7.6 meters (25 feet) from a vertical wall or screen directly in front of it.

• (A) Eight feet
• (B) Center height of lamp to ground
• (C) Twenty five feet
• (D) Horizontal reference line

A D C B

  1. Measure the height of the headlamp bulb center from the ground and mark a 2.5 meter (8 foot) horizontal reference line on the vertical wall or screen at this height (a piece of masking tape works well).
  2. Turn on the low beam headlamps to illuminate the wall or screen and open the hood.

Lights

  1. On the wall or screen you will observe an area of high intensity light. The top of the high intensity area should touch the horizontal reference line, if not, the beam will need to be adjusted.

To see a clearer light pattern for adjusting, you may want to block the light from one headlamp while adjusting the other.

  1. Locate the vertical adjuster on each headlamp. Using a 4mm wrench, turn the adjuster either clockwise (to adjust down) or counterclockwise (to adjust up). The horizontal edge of the brighter light should touch the horizontal reference line.
  2. HORIZONTAL AIM IS NOT REQUIRED FOR THIS VEHICLE AND IS NON-ADJUSTABLE.
  3. Close the hood and turn off the lamps.

TURN SIGNAL CONTROL ⇔

  • Push down to activate the left turn signal.
  • Push up to activate the right turn signal.

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Lights

INTERIOR LAMPS

Dome lamps and map lamps

The front dome lamp is located overhead between the driver and passenger seats. If the vehicle is equipped with a moon roof, the dome lamp is located behind the moon roof.

The dome lamp will stay on if the control is moved to the passenger side position. When the control is in the middle position, the lamp will only come on when a door is opened. If the control is moved to the driver's side position, the lamp will not come on at all.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Dome lamps and map lamps - 1

natural_image Top-down line drawing of a car with a grid-patterned roof and two blue buttons at the bottom (no text or symbols)

With the control in the middle position, the dome lamp will illuminate whenever a front door is opened. If either front door has been opened from the outside, the lamp will remain on for 25 seconds after the door is shut. If any other door has been opened from the inside, the lamp will shut off immediately after the door is closed.

The map lamp controls (if equipped) are located on the dome lamp. Press the controls on either side of each lens on each map lamp to activate the lamps.

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natural_image Diagram of a vehicle front panel with two blue oval buttons and grid patterns (no text or symbols)

If equipped with a moon roof, the map lamps are located on the moon roof control panel. Press the controls on either side of each map lamp to activate the lamps.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Dome lamps and map lamps - 3

natural_image Line drawing of a car front panel with two blue circular buttons and side lockers (no text or symbols)

Lights

Rear dome lamp (if equipped)

The dome lamp lights when:

- any door is opened with the control in the middle position.

- the instrument panel dimmer switch is held up until the courtesy lamps come on.

- any of the remote entry controls are pressed and the ignition is OFF.

- the lamp control is moved to the passenger side position.

With the ignition key in the ACC or ON position, the rear dome lamp can be turned ON or OFF by sliding the control.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Rear dome lamp (if equipped) - 1

natural_image Simple line drawing of a dome-shaped device with a blue internal component (no text or symbols)

BULBS

Replacing exterior bulbs

Check the operation of the following lamps frequently:

  • Headlamps
  • Tail lamps
  • Brakelamps
    • High-mount brakelamp
  • Turn signal lamps
  • Backup lamps
  • License plate lamp

Do not remove lamp bulbs unless they will be replaced immediately. If a bulb is removed for an extended period of time, contaminants may enter the lamp housings and affect performance.

Using the right bulbs

Replacement bulbs are specified in the chart below. Headlamp bulbs must be marked with an authorized "D.O.T." for North America and an "E" for Europe to assure lamp performance, light brightness and pattern and safe visibility. The correct bulbs will not damage the lamp assembly or void the lamp assembly warranty and will provide quality bulb burn time.

Lights

Function Number of bulbsTrade number
Front park/turn lamp 23457 AK (amber)
Headlamp 29007 QL (9007 LL optional)
Tail lamp/brake/turn lamp 2 3157K
Tail lamp/brake lamp (wagon)2 3057K
Rear turn lamp (wagon) 2 3456K
Backup lamp 2 3156k
Backup lamp (wagon) 2 3156K
License plate lamp 2 168
High-mount brake lamp (wagon)2 912
High-mount brake lamp (sedan)Must replace the hi-mount brake lamp assembly
Rear side marker lamp (wagon)2 194
Foglamp (if equipped) 2 899
Cargo lamp (wagon) 1 578
Dome lamp 1 578
Dome/map lamp 3 578
Dome lamp/moon roof2 578
Visor vanity lamp (passenger/driver)2 DE 3021
Floor console2 194
Luggage compartment lamp1 212-2
I/P ashtray lamp1 194
All replacement bulbs are clear in color except where noted.
To replace all instrument panel lights - see your dealer.

Lights

Replacing the interior bulbs

Check the operation of the following interior bulbs frequently:

  • Interior overhead lamp
  • Map lamp
    For bulb replacement, see a dealer or qualified technician.

Replacing headlamp bulbs

To remove the headlamp bulb:

  1. Make sure headlamp switch is in OFF position.
  2. Remove the bolt from the headlamp housing.
  3. At the back of the headlamp, pry up and remove the two retainer pins to release the headlamp assembly from the vehicle and pull headlamp forward.

  4. Remove the protective dust shield from the housing by turning the dust shield counterclockwise (when viewed from the rear).

Mercury Sable (2002) - Replacing headlamp bulbs - 1

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Lights

  1. Disconnect the electrical connector from the bulb by pulling rearward.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Lights - 1

natural_image Diagram showing a mechanical assembly with a pulley, connector, and cable (no text or symbols)
  1. Remove the bulb retaining ring by rotating it counterclockwise.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Lights - 2

natural_image Diagram of a mechanical assembly showing a wheel, connector, and plug (no text or symbols)
  1. Remove the old bulb from the lamp assembly by pulling it straight out of the lamp assembly.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Lights - 3

natural_image Diagram showing a mechanical assembly with a wheel, nut, and plug (no text or symbols)

To install the new bulb:

Mercury Sable (2002) - Lights - 4

Handle a halogen headlamp bulb carefully and keep out of children's reach. Grasp the bulb only by its plastic base and do uch the glass. The oil from your hand could cause the bulb to the next time the headlamps are operated.

  1. Install the new bulb in lamp assembly by pushing straight in with the flat surface of the bulb's plastic base facing upward. You may need to turn the bulb slightly to align the grooves in the plastic base with the tabs in the lamp assembly.

Lights

  1. Install the bulb retaining ring over the plastic base and lock the ring by rotating clockwise until it snaps into place.
  2. Connect the electrical connector to the bulb.
  3. Install the protective dust shield and lock the shield by rotating it clockwise until it locks into position.
  4. Carefully position the headlamp assembly onto the vehicle.
  5. Hold the headlamp assembly snugly against the vehicle and install the retainer pins straight down to lock the lamp into place.
  6. Before reinstalling the bolt, make sure the retainer pins are fully seated, and install bolt on headlamp housing.
  7. Turn the headlamps on and make sure they work properly. If the headlamp was correctly aligned before you changed the bulb, you should not need to align it again.

Replacing front parking lamp/turn signal/cornering lamp bulbs

  1. Make sure the headlamp control is in the OFF position.
  2. Remove the bolt from the headlamp housing.
  3. At the back of the headlamp, pry up and remove the two retainer pins to release the headlamp assembly from the vehicle and pull headlamp forward.
  4. Rotate the bulb socket counterclockwise and remove it from the lamp assembly.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Replacing front parking lamp/turn signal/cornering lamp bulbs - 1

natural_image Diagram of a car's front wheel assembly with blue structural details and directional arrows indicating components (no text or labels)

Lights

  1. Carefully pull bulb straight out of the socket and push in the new bulb.
  2. Install the bulb socket into the lamp assembly by rotating it clockwise.
  3. Carefully position the headlamp assembly onto the vehicle.
  4. Hold the headlamp assembly snugly against the vehicle and install the retainer pins straight down to lock the lamp into place.
  5. Before reinstalling the bolt, make sure the retainer pins are fully seated, and install bolt on headlamp housing.
  6. Turn the headlamps on and make sure they work properly. If the headlamp was correctly aligned before you changed the bulb, you should not need to align it again.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Lights - 1

natural_image Illustration of a blue helmet being inserted into an electrical plug (no text or symbols)

Replacing high-mount brakelamp assembly — Sedan only

To change the high-mount brake lamp assembly:

  1. Pry the light assembly away from its housing and push rearward to disengage it from the retaining clips.
  2. Lift the front of the light assembly from the parcel shelf.
  3. Disconnect the light assembly wiring and replace the light assembly.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Replacing high-mount brakelamp assembly — Sedan only - 1

natural_image Illustration of a dropper striking a blue tray with a handle, no text or symbols present

Lights

Replacing high-mount brakelamp bulbs — Wagon only

  1. Open liftgate.
  2. Remove two screw covers, screws and handle from liftgate.
  3. Remove two screws and the lower trim panel from the liftgate.
  4. Remove the upper trim panel.

  5. Remove the rubber plug from the lower access hole in the upper portion of the liftgate.

  6. Remove four nuts from the lamp assembly.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Replacing high-mount brakelamp bulbs — Wagon only - 1

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Lights

  1. Carefully lift the lamp assembly away from the liftgate.
  2. Remove the bulb socket by rotating it counterclockwise and pulling it out from the lamp assembly.
  3. Carefully pull the bulb straight out of the socket and push in the new bulb.
  4. To complete installation, follow the removal procedure in reverse order.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Lights - 1

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Replacing high-mount brakelamp bulbs — Decklid spoiler

Your vehicle may be equipped with a decklid spoiler with an integral multiple light emitting diodes (LED) type high mount stop lamp module. If one or more LEDs burn out, the complete lamp module has to be replaced. See your dealer for the replacement LED module.

To replace the LED module:

  1. Remove the two outboard grommets from the inside of the decklid
  2. On the inside of the decklid, remove the three nuts that hold the spoiler on and remove the spoiler.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Replacing high-mount brakelamp bulbs — Decklid spoiler - 1

natural_image Line drawing of a car rear bumper with mounting brackets and structural details (no text or symbols)

Lights

  1. On the underside of the spoiler, remove the two decorative screw covers (on the LED module).
  2. Remove the two screws that are holding the LED module in place.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Lights - 1

natural_image Diagram of a car front panel with mounting holes and control knobs (no text or labels)
  1. Remove the wiring harness grommet and disengage the electrical connector.

  2. Replace the LED module.

  3. To complete installation, follow the removal procedure in reverse order.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Lights - 2

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Replacing license plate lamp bulbs

Wagon

  1. Remove screw and the license plate lamp assembly from liftgate.
  2. Remove bulb socket by turning counterclockwise.
  3. Carefully pull the bulb out from the socket and push in the new bulb.
  4. Install the lamp assembly on liftgate with screw.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Wagon - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    A["Top Top"] --> B["Central Component"]
    B --> C["Bottom Bottom"]

Lights

Sedan

  1. Remove two screws, grommets and the license plate lamp assembly from the trunk lid.
  2. Carefully pull the bulb from the socket and push in the new bulb.
  3. Install the lamp assembly on trunk lid with two grommets, ensuring the grommets are pushed all the way in to the trunk lid and secure with two screws.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Sedan - 1

natural_image Diagram of a mechanical component with arrows indicating motion or assembly (no text or symbols)

Replacing tail/brake/turn signal/backup lamp bulbs

Sedan

The tail lamp, brake lamp, turn signal lamp and backup lamp bulbs are located in the same portion of the tail lamp assembly. Follow the same steps to replace either bulb.

  1. Open trunk and remove two plastic mushroom nuts, three push pins and the plastic cover from inside the trunk to access the lamp assembly.
  2. Carefully pull the carpet away to expose the lamp assembly hardware.
  3. Remove four nut and washer assemblies and the lamp assembly from the vehicle.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Sedan - 1

natural_image Diagram of car seatbelt components with no text or symbols

Lights

  1. Remove the bulb socket by rotating it counterclockwise, then pulling it out of the lamp assembly.
  2. Pull the bulb from the socket and push in the new bulb.
  3. Install the bulb socket into the lamp assembly by rotating it clockwise.
  4. Install the lamp assembly on the vehicle with four nut and washer assemblies ensuring the washers on the nuts are flush with the body to prevent water from entering the trunk.
  5. Carefully push the carpet back in to place and install the plastic cover inside the trunk with three push pins and two plastic mushroom nuts.

Wagon

The tail lamp/turn lamp bulbs are located in the same portion of the tail lamp assembly, one just below the other. Follow the same steps to replace either bulb:

  1. Open the liftgate to expose the lamp assemblies.
  2. Remove the two bolts from the tail lamp assembly.
  3. Carefully pull the lamp assembly from the tailgate.
  4. Twist the bulb socket counterclockwise and remove from lamp assembly.
  5. Pull the bulb straight out of the socket and push in the new bulb.
  6. Install bulb socket in lamp assembly by turning clockwise.
  7. Carefully install the tail lamp assembly on tailgate and secure with two bolts.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Wagon - 1

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Mercury Sable (2002) - Wagon - 2

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Driver Controls

WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER CONTROLS

Rotate the windshield wiper control to the desired interval, low or high speed position.

The bars of varying length are for intermittent wipers. When in this position rotate the control upward for fast intervals and downward for slow intervals.

Push the control on the end of the stalk to activate washer. Push and hold for a longer wash cycle. The washer will automatically shut off after ten seconds of continuous use.

Mist Function

To operate the Mist function of the windshield wipers, push and release the windshield washer control quickly. The wipers will cycle one or two times.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Mist Function - 1

Mercury Sable (2002) - Mist Function - 2

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Mercury Sable (2002) - Mist Function - 3

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Mercury Sable (2002) - Mist Function - 4

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Rear window wiper and washer (wagon only)

The rear wiper control is located under the headlamp controls Press the wiper control to activate the rear wiper. Press again to turn off the wiper.

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Mercury Sable (2002) - Rear window wiper and washer (wagon only) - 2

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Driver Controls

Press the washer control to activate the rear washer. The wiper will come on when the washer control is pressed, if it is not already on.

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Windshield wiper blades

Check the wiper blades for wear at least twice a year or when they seem less effective. Substances such as tree sap and some hot wax treatments used by commercial car washes reduce the effectiveness of wiper blades.

Checking the wiper blades

If the wiper blades do not wipe properly, clean both the windshield and wiper blades using undiluted windshield wiper solution or a mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. To avoid damaging the blades, do not use fuel, kerosene, paint thinner or other solvents.

Changing the wiper blades

To replace the wiper blades:

  1. Pull the wiper arm away from the windshield and lock into the service position.

  2. Turn the blade at an angle from the wiper arm. Push the lock pin manually to release the blade and pull the wiper blade down toward the windshield to remove it from the arm.

  3. Attach the new wiper to the wiper arm and press it into place until a click is heard.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Changing the wiper blades - 1

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Driver Controls

Rear window wiper blades

Refer to Windshield wiper blades in this section for more information on rear wiper blades.

TILT STEERING

Pull the tilt steering control toward you to move the steering wheel up or down. Hold the control while adjusting the wheel to the desired position, then release the control.

Mercury Sable (2002) - TILT STEERING - 1

natural_image Diagram of a car head and steering wheel assembly (no text or labels)

Mercury Sable (2002) - TILT STEERING - 2

Never adjust the steering wheel when the vehicle is moving.

ILLUMINATED VISOR MIRROR (IF EQUIPPED)

To turn on the visor mirror lamps, lift the mirror cover. Adjust the amount of light by sliding the control.

Mercury Sable (2002) - ILLUMINATED VISOR MIRROR (IF EQUIPPED) - 1

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Driver Controls

AUXILIARY POWER POINT 12V

Power outlets are designed for accessory plugs only. Do not hang any type of accessory or accessory bracket from the plug. Improper use of the power outlet can cause damage not covered by your warranty.

The auxiliary power point is located on the instrument panel below the cigarette lighter.

Do not plug optional electrical accessories into the cigarette lighter. Use the power point.

POWER WINDOWS

Press and hold the rocker switches to open and close windows.

- Press the top portion of the rocker switch to close.

- Press the bottom portion of the rocker switch to open.

Mercury Sable (2002) - POWER WINDOWS - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    A["State 1"] --> B["Directional Arrow: ↑ and ↓"]
    C["State 2"] --> D["Directional Arrow: ↑ and ↓"]
    E["State 3"] --> F["Directional Arrow: ↑ and ↓"]
    G["State 4"] --> H["Directional Arrow: ↑ and ↓"]

Driver Controls

One touch down

- Press AUTO completely down to the second detent. The driver's window will open fully. Depress up to stop window operation.

AUTO

Window lock

The window lock feature allows only the driver to operate the power windows.

To lock out all the window controls except for the driver's press the left side of the control. Press the right side to restore the window controls.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Window lock - 1

Accessory delay (if equipped)

With accessory delay, the window switches may be used for up to ten minutes after the ignition switch is turned to the OFF position or until any door is opened.

Driver Controls

MIRRORS

Automatic dimming inside rear view mirror (if equipped)

Your vehicle is equipped with an inside rear view mirror which has an auto-dimming function. The electronic day/night mirror will change from the normal state to the non-glare state when bright lights (glare) reach the mirror. When the mirror detects bright light from front or behind, it will automatically adjust (darken) to minimize glare.

Do not block the sensor on the backside of the mirror since this may impair proper mirror performance.

Press the control to turn the mirror OFF or AUTO.

The mirror will automatically return to the normal state whenever the vehicle is placed in R (Reverse)(when the mirror is on) to ensure a bright clear view when backing up.

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natural_image Simple line drawing of a curved object with two buttons at the bottom (no text or symbols)

Electronic compass (if equipped)

The compass reading will remain accurate during most driving conditions. Unknown to the driver, the compass is continuously recalibrating due to magnetic fields and subtle, slow changes in vehicle magnetics which can occur over the life of the vehicle.

The compass reading will remain fixed when significant changes in the local magnetic field are experienced (such as steel bridges). The compass will return to normal operation upon leaving the magnetized area.

If highly magnetized items (such as magnetic mount antennas) are placed very near the compass the display will change to "C" for 15 seconds, then display all segments until the magnetized item is removed. If a "C" is displayed, refer to Compass calibration adjustment.

Most geographic areas (zones) have a magnetic north compass point that varies slightly from the northerly direction on maps. This variation is four degrees between adjacent zones and will become noticeable as the vehicle crosses multiple zones. A correct zone setting will eliminate this error. Refer to Compass zone adjustment.

Driver Controls

Compass zone adjustment

  1. Determine which compass zone you are in by referring to the zone map.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

  1. With the compass display turned on, press and hold the COMP side of the control for no more than five seconds until the zone selection number appears in the mirror display window. If a "C" appears, see Compass calibration adjustment.

  2. Release the COMP side of the control, then press it down again.

  3. Press and release until your zone number is shown in the mirror display.

  4. The display will show all segments, then return to normal compass mode within ten seconds.

RW Save

Compass calibration adjustment

Perform this adjustment in an open area free from steel structures and high voltage lines.

  1. Start the vehicle.

Driver Controls

  1. Press and hold the COMP side of the control for approximately six seconds until "C" appears in the mirror display.
  2. Drive the vehicle slowly (less than 5 km/h [3 mph]) in circles or on your everyday routine until the display reads a direction.
  3. The compass is now calibrated.

Power side view mirrors

To adjust your mirrors:

  1. Select mirror or mirror. to adjust the left to adjust the right

KW 欢迎光临

Mercury Sable (2002) - Power side view mirrors - 2

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  1. Move the control in the direction you wish to tilt the mirror.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Power side view mirrors - 3

flowchart
graph TD
    A["Input"] --> B["Process Unit"]
    B --> C["Output"]
    style B fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style C fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
  1. Return to the center position to disable adjust function.

Driver Controls

Heated outside mirrors (if equipped)

Both mirrors are heated automatically to remove ice, mist and fog when the rear window defrost is activated.

Do not remove ice from the mirrors with a scraper or attempt to readjust the mirror glass if it is frozen in place. These actions could cause damage to the glass and mirrors.

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POWER ADJUSTABLE FOOT PEDALS (IF EQUIPPED)

The accelerator and brake pedal should only be adjusted when the vehicle is stopped and the gearshift lever is in the P(Park) position.

Press and hold the rocker control (located on the side of the driver's seat) to adjust accelerator and brake pedal.

PEDALS
Mercury Sable (2002) - POWER ADJUSTABLE FOOT PEDALS (IF EQUIPPED) - 1

  • Press the rear side of the control to adjust the pedals toward you.
  • Press the front side of the control to adjust the pedals away from you.

The adjustment allows for approximately 76 mm (3 inches) of maximum travel.

Mercury Sable (2002) - POWER ADJUSTABLE FOOT PEDALS (IF EQUIPPED) - 2

Never adjust the accelerator and brake pedal with feet on pedals or while the vehicle is moving.

Driver Controls

SPEED CONTROL (IF EQUIPPED)

To turn speed control on

- Press ON.

Vehicle speed cannot be controlled until the vehicle is traveling at or above 48 km/h (30 mph).

Do not shift the gearshift lever into N (Neutral) with the speed control on.

Mercury Sable (2002) - To turn speed control on - 1

Mercury Sable (2002) - To turn speed control on - 2

Do not use the speed control in heavy traffic or on roads that are winding, slippery, or unpaved.

To turn speed control off

  • Press OFF or
  • Turn off the vehicle ignition.

Once speed control is switched off, the previously programmed set speed will be erased.

Mercury Sable (2002) - To turn speed control off - 1

Driver Controls

To set a speed

- Press SET+. For speed control to operate, the speed control must be ON and the vehicle speed must be greater than 48 km/h (30 mph).

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If you drive up or down a steep hill, your vehicle speed may vary momentarily slower or faster than the set speed. This is normal.

Speed control cannot reduce the vehicle speed if it increases above the set speed on a downhill. If your vehicle speed is faster than the set speed while driving on a downhill, you may want to shift to the next lower gear or apply the brakes to reduce your vehicle speed.

If your vehicle slows down more than 16 km/h (10 mph) below your set speed on an uphill, your speed control will disengage. This is normal. Pressing RES will re-engage it.

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Do not use the speed control in heavy traffic or on roads that are winding, slippery, or unpaved.

To set a higher set speed

  • Press and hold SET +. Release the control when the desired vehicle speed is reached or
  • Press and release SET + to operate the Tap-Up function. Each press will increase the set speed by 1.6 km/h (1 mph) or
  • Accelerate with your accelerator pedal. When the desired vehicle speed is reached, press and release SET +.

You can accelerate with the accelerator pedal at any time during speed control usage. Releasing the accelerator pedal will return your vehicle to the previously programmed set speed.

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Driver Controls

To set a lower set speed

  • Press and hold CST -. Release the control when the desired speed is reached or
  • Press and release CST – to operate the Tap-Down function. Each press will decrease the set speed by 1.6 km/h (1 mph) or
  • Depress the brake pedal. When the desired vehicle speed is reached, press SET +.

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Mercury Sable (2002) - To set a lower set speed - 2

To disengage speed control

- Depress the brake pedal. Disengaging the speed control will not erase the previously programmed set speed.

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natural_image Diagram of a mechanical component with a blue cylindrical part and directional arrow indicating motion (no text or symbols)

Pressing OFF will erase the previously programmed set speed.

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To return to a previously set speed

- Press RES. For RES to operate, the vehicle speed must be faster than 48 km/h (30 mph).

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Driver Controls

Indicator light

This light comes on when either the SET or RES controls are pressed. It turns off when the speed control

OFF control is pressed, the brake is applied or the ignition is turned to the OFF position.

CRUISE

MOON ROOF (IF EQUIPPED)

Push up on the control to raise the moon roof to the vent position.

Push the front portion of the control rearward to open the moon roof.

To close, press and hold the front portion of the control.

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natural_image Top-down line drawing of a vehicle airfoil (no text or symbols)

CENTER CONSOLE

Your vehicle may be equipped with a variety of console features. These include:

• Utility compartment
- Bin mat (snap-in)
• Cupholders (front and rear)
- Coin holder slots
- Compact disc changer (if equipped)
- Tissue holder
- Rear A/C vent

- Rear ashtray (see your Ford, Lincoln Mercury dealer to obtain rear ashtray

Mercury Sable (2002) - CENTER CONSOLE - 1

Use only soft cups in the cupholder. Hard objects can injure you in a collision.

If your vehicle is equipped with the column shift and a bench seat, it has a center console in the center front seating position.

Driver Controls

The center console has similar features as the full console. To open the storage compartment, raise the armrest and pull the strap on the seat up and toward the front of the vehicle. The rear seat area is provided with dual cupholders.

CELL PHONE WARNING

Use of cell phones and other devices by driver:

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Do not operate hand held communication equipment while operating the vehicle as this may lead to an accident caused by action and result in personal injury.

CELL PHONE HANDS-FREE SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)

The Cellport 3000–VR (voice recognition) allows for hands-free voice activated communication while in your vehicle. With your cell phone docked in the pocket adapter, located on the center console, incoming calls will ring through the audio system speakers.

The radio will display the word "CALL" when you are on the phone.

With this system, you will hear and control the volume of the person you are talking to through your car's

audio system. Your voice is picked up through the microphone mounted above the rear view mirror allowing you to talk on the phone. The volume setting in your phone will effect the volume through the audio system. You may have to reset the volume of your phone when using the Cellport 3000–VR.

CALL

Driver Controls

You will need a pocket adapter that is compatible with your cellphone. The adapter will plug into the center console.

To order your phone specific Pocket Adapter Kit, which includes the pocket adapter, Owner's manual and Audio Guide, call 1(888) 801-2355 or visit Cellport at

www.cellport.com/pockets.

Distribution is provided by: Cellport Systems 4999 Pearl East Circle, Suite 300 Boulder, Colorado 80301

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natural_image Line drawing of a boat with an arrow pointing to the hull (no text or symbols)

To install your pocket adapter, refer to your Cellport Owner's Manual. Check and obey the laws and regulations on the use of wireless telephones in the areas where you drive.

Before driving, familiarize yourself with the operation and location of the Cellport 3000-VR System.

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To avoid potential distraction and increased risk of injury or accident, Ford recommends you do not use the phone while g.

Please pull off the road and park before making or answering a call.

To prevent damage to the antenna or your car, remove the cellular phone antenna mast before using an automatic car wash.

POSITIVE RETENTION FLOOR MAT

Position the floor mat so that the eyelet is over the pointed end of the retention post and rotate forward to lock in. Make sure that the mat does not interfere with the operation of the accelerator or the brake pedal. To remove the floor mat, reverse the installation procedure.

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natural_image Simple line drawing of a curved pipe with a circular end and a small blue object at the bottom (no text or symbols)

Driver Controls

TRUNK REMOTE CONTROL (IF EQUIPPED)

Press the remote trunk release control on the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel.

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natural_image Line drawing of a car interior panel with a hand cursor pointing to the button (no text or symbols)

You can open and close the liftgate and the liftgate window from outside the vehicle. It cannot be opened from inside the cargo area.

- To open the liftgate window, unlock the liftgate (with the key, the power door locks or the remote entry key fob) and push the key lock cylinder.

- To open the liftgate, unlock the liftgate and pull up on the handle under the license plate lamp shield.

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natural_image Pure diagram of a vehicle track with directional arrows and a circular symbol (no text or labels)

To lock the liftgate and the liftgate window, press the lock button down on the inside of the liftgate, use the key, the power door locks, or the remote entry key fob.

The liftgate and liftgate window should be closed before driving your vehicle. If not, possible damage may occur to the liftgate lift cylinders and attaching hardware.

Driver Controls

CARGO AREA FEATURES

Storage compartment

Your vehicle comes equipped with a storage compartment in the floor of the cargo area. An additional compartment is in the rear trim panel on the right. Always put the load you are carrying as far forward as possible.

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natural_image Line drawing of a car interior corner with a hand holding a tool, showing a blue arrow indicating direction (no text or symbols)

Cargo net (if equipped) (Wagon)

The cargo net secures lightweight objects in the cargo area. Attach the net to the anchors provided. Do not put more than 22 kg (50 lbs.) in the net. This net is not designed to restrain objects during a collision.

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natural_image Diagram of a mechanical component with a magnified inset showing a separate view (no text or symbols)

Cargo cover (if equipped)

Your vehicle may be equipped with a cargo area shade that covers the luggage compartment of your vehicle.

Driver Controls

To install the shade:

  1. Fasten the cover into the mounting brackets (make sure the cover is right side up).
  2. Pull the end of the shade toward you and hook the sides into the notches (right side first) in the rear trim panels.

To reduce the risk of injuries, the fasteners for cargo area cover must be properly attached to the mounting clips on the rear trim panels.

Diagram showing car interior components with directional arrows indicating movement or movement, including a device component and fan assembly.

Do not place any objects on the cargo area cover. They may obstruct your vision or strike occupants of the vehicle in the case of a sudden stop or collision.

The cover may cause injury in a sudden stop or accident if it is not securely installed.

Rewinding the shade

With extended use, the cargo shade may lose its spring tension. If this occurs, the shade must be manually rewound. This is a two-person operation.

  1. Remove the shade from the vehicle and extend it with the smooth grain facing you.

Driver Controls

  1. Wrap the vinyl around the roller tube twice. Tuck the edges of the vinyl inside the end cap with each wrap.
  2. Fold the edges of the vinyl towards the center, making sure that the edges clear the end cap slots. Use tape or a rubber band to hold the vinyl to the left side of the tube.
  3. Push in the right end cap (marked RH) about 14 of the total length to disengage the clutch and hold the end cap in while turning the roller tube toward you 14 times.
  4. Let go of the right end cap. The clutch will now engage and stop the shade from losing its spring tension.
  5. Unfold the vinyl and place it into the end cap slots.
  6. Insert the shade into the side mounting brackets and check to make sure that it operates properly.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Driver Controls - 1

The cover may cause injury in a sudden stop or accident if it is not securely installed.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Driver Controls - 2

natural_image Simple line drawing of a rectangular object with two blue arrows pointing upward, no text or symbols present.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Driver Controls - 3

natural_image Simple line drawing of a mechanical component with arrows indicating motion or force direction (no text or symbols)

Cargo utility hooks (Sedan)

The utility hooks located in side the trunk can be used to attach a cargo net to secure lightweight objects or hang small items on. Do not hang more than 12 kg (20 lbs) on the hooks. The hooks are not designed to restrain objects during a collision.

Driver Controls

LUGGAGE RACK (IF EQUIPPED)

The rear cross-bar can be adjusted to fit the item being carried. The front cross-bar does not move. Do not load more than 44 kg (100 lbs.) on the luggage rack.

To adjust cross-bar position:

  1. Loosen the thumbwheel at both ends of the cross-bar.
  2. Slide the cross-bar to the desired location.
  3. Tighten the thumbwheel at both ends of the cross-bar.

Use adjustable tie down loops to secure the load.

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natural_image Diagram of a car's side profile showing a window with blue liquid and bidirectional arrows indicating width (no text or symbols)

Locks and Security

KEYS

The key operates all locks on your vehicle. In case of loss, replacement keys are available from your dealer.

You should always carry a second key with you in a safe place in case you require it in an emergency.

Refer to SecuriLock™ Passive Anti-Theft System for more information.

POWER DOOR LOCKS

Press control to unlock or lock all doors.

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natural_image Two identical line drawings of a key with serrated tip and circular base (no text or symbols)

Mercury Sable (2002) - POWER DOOR LOCKS - 2

flowchart
graph TD
    A["Lock"] --> B["Inner Capsule"]
    B --> C["Lock"]
    C --> D["Outer Capsule"]
    D --> E["Arrow Right"]
    D --> F["Arrow Left"]

When these locks are set, the rear doors cannot be opened from the inside. The rear doors can be opened from the outside when the doors are unlocked.

The childproof locks are located on rear edge of each rear door and must be set separately for each door. Setting the lock for one door will not automatically set the lock for both doors.

Diagram showing a padlock mechanism with two lock positions and a dashed vertical arrow indicating direction.

Move lock control up to engage the childproof lock. Move control down to disengage childproof locks.

Locks and Security

INTERIOR LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT RELEASE

Your vehicle is equipped with a mechanical interior luggage compartment release handle that provides a means of escape for children and adults in the event they become locked inside the luggage compartment.

Adults are advised to familiarize themselves with the operation and location of the release handle.

To open the luggage compartment door (lid) from the inside, pull the illuminated "T" shaped handle and push up on the trunk lid. The material that the handle is made of will glow for hours in the darkness of the luggage compartment following brief exposure to ambient light.

The “T” shaped handle will be located either on the luggage compartment door (lid) or inside the luggage compartment near the tail lamps.

Diagram illustrating a car collision scenario with labeled components and directional arrows

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Keep vehicle doors and luggage compartment

locked and keep keys and remote transmitters out of a child's reach. Unsupervised children could lock themselves in an open trunk and risk injury. Children should be taught not to play in vehicles.

Mercury Sable (2002) - INTERIOR LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT RELEASE - 3

natural_image Silhouette of a vehicle with a circular symbol indicating no restriction or prohibition (no text or numbers present)

Locks and Security

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On hot days, the temperature in the trunk or vehicle interior can rise very quickly. Exposure of people or animals to these high temperatures for even a short time can cause death or serious heat-related injuries, including brain damage. Small children are particularly at risk.

REMOTE ENTRY SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules and with RS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

The remote entry system allows you to lock or unlock all vehicle doors, trunk and liftgate without a key.

The remote entry features only operate with the vehicle in P (Park) or N (Neutral) and the ignition in the, ACC, OFF or ON positions.

If there is any potential remote keyless entry problem with your vehicle, ensure ALL remote entry transmitters are brought to the dealership, to aid in troubleshooting.

Unlocking the doors/liftgate

Press this control to unlock the driver's door. The lamps will illuminate with the ignition OFF.

Press the control a second time within three seconds to unlock all doors and liftgate (wagons).

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natural_image Illustration of a remote control device with buttons and a blue arrow pointing to it (no text or symbols)

Locks and Security

Locking the doors/liftgate

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Press this control to lock all doors and liftgate (wagons).

To confirm all doors are closed and locked, press the control a second time within three seconds. The doors will lock again and the horn will chirp.

If any of the doors or liftgate (wagons) are ajar, the horn will make two quick chirps, reminding you to properly close all doors.

Sounding a panic alarm

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Press this control to activate the alarm.

To deactivate the alarm, press the control again or turn the ignition to ACC or ON.

Panic alarm will only operate with the ignition in the OFF position.

Unlocking the liftgate/trunk

Press the control to unlock the liftgate/trunk.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Unlocking the liftgate/trunk - 1

natural_image Illustration of a handheld electronic device with four buttons and a cable (no text or symbols)

Mercury Sable (2002) - Unlocking the liftgate/trunk - 2

natural_image Illustration of a device with four buttons and a blue arrow pointing to it (no text or symbols present)

Mercury Sable (2002) - Unlocking the liftgate/trunk - 3

natural_image Line drawing of a handheld electronic device with four buttons and a blue arrow pointing to the bottom-right button (no text or symbols present)

Locks and Security

Replacing the battery

The remote transmitter is powered by one coin type three-volt lithium battery CR2032 or equivalent. Typical operating range will allow you to be up to 10 meters (33 feet) away from your vehicle. A decrease in operating range can be caused by:

  • weather conditions
  • nearby radio towers
    • structures around the vehicle
  • other vehicles parked next to the vehicle

To replace the battery:

  1. Twist a thin coin between the two halves of the transmitter near the key ring. DO NOT TAKE THE FRONT PART OF THE TRANSMITTER APART.
  2. Place the positive (+) side of new battery in the same orientation. Refer to the diagram inside the transmitter unit.
  3. Snap the two halves back together.

Replacement of the battery will not cause the remote transmitter to become deprogrammed from your vehicle. The remote transmitter should operate normally after battery replacement.

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natural_image Simple line drawing of a keychain with a blue circular lens and two square plates (no text or symbols)

Replacing lost transmitters

If a remote transmitter has been lost and you would like to remove it from the vehicle's memory, or you would like to purchase additional remote transmitters and have them programmed to your vehicle:

Take all your vehicle's transmitters to your dealer for programming, or
• Perform the programming procedure yourself

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natural_image Line drawing of a portable electronic device with four buttons and a cord (no text or symbols)

Locks and Security

Programming remote transmitters

It is necessary to have all (maximum of four — original and/or new) of your remote transmitters available prior to beginning this procedure.

To program the transmitters yourself:

- Place the key in the ignition and turn from 2 (LOCK) to 3 (OFF) and cycle between 3 (OFF) and 4(ON) eight times in rapid succession (within 10 seconds) with the eighth turn ending in the 4 (ON) position. The doors will lock/unlock to confirm that programming mode has been entered.

- Within 20 seconds, program a remote transmitter by pressing any button on a transmitter. The doors will lock/unlock to confirm that the remote transmitter has been programmed. (If more than 20 seconds pass before pressing a remote transmitter button, the programming mode will exit and the procedure will have to be repeated.)

- Repeat the previous step to program additional remote transmitters. The doors will lock/unlock to confirm that each remote transmitter has been programmed. - When you have completed programming the remote transmitters, turn the ignition to 3 (OFF) or wait 20 seconds. Again the doors will lock/unlock to confirm programming has been completed.

Illuminated entry

The lamps illuminate when the remote entry system is used to unlock the door(s).

The system automatically turns off after 25 seconds or when the ignition is turned to the ON or ACC position. The dome lamp control (if equipped) must not be set to the OFF position for the illuminated entry system to operate.

The inside lights will not turn off if:

• they have been turned on with the dimmer control or
- any door is open

The battery saver will shut off the interior lamps 10 minutes after the ignition has been turned to the OFF position.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Illuminated entry - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    A["1"] --> B["2"]
    B --> C["3"]
    C --> D["4"]
    D --> E["5"]
    E --> A

Locks and Security

Perimeter lamps illuminated entry

The exterior lamps illuminate when the vehicle is unlocked by the remote entry transmitter. Vehicles equipped with auto lamps, the puddle, head, park, and tail lamps illuminate. Vehicles not equipped with auto lamp, only the puddle, park and tail lamps illuminate.

The system automatically turns off after 25 seconds or when the ignition is turned to the ON or ACC position.

The battery saver will shut off the exterior lamps 10 minutes after the ignition has been turned to the OFF position.

Deactivating/activating perimeter lamps

There are 2 methods to enable/disable this feature. One through your dealer and the second with a power door lock sequence using the following instructions:

  1. Turn the ignition key to RUN, then press the power door UNLOCK control button 3 times.
  2. Turn the ignition key to OFF, then press the power door UNLOCK control button 3 times.
  3. Turn the ignition key to RUN, within five seconds press the power door UNLOCK control button 2 times.

The user should receive two horn chirps to indicate the system had been altered.

Note: Puddle lamps cannot be deactivated, only the head, park, and tail lamps will be deactivated/avtivated.

- Turn ignition to OFF to exit.

KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)

With the keyless entry keypad, you can:

Mercury Sable (2002) - KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED) - 1

- lock or unlock the vehicle doors and liftgate (wagons) without using the key

  • open the trunk
  • arm and disarm the perimeter alarm system (if equipped)

See also Remote entry system and Perimeter alarm system in this chapter for more information.

Locks and Security

Your vehicle has a factory-set 5-digit code that operates the keyless entry system. You can also program your own 5-digit personal entry code.

The factory-set code is located:

  • on the owner's wallet card in the glove compartment
  • on the inner side of the passenger compartment fuse box
    • or at your dealer

When pressing the controls on the keyless entry keypad, press the middle of the controls to ensure a good activation.

Programming your own personal entry code

  1. Enter the factory-set code (keypad will illuminate when pressed).
  2. Press the 1/2 control within five seconds of step 1.
  3. Enter your personal 5 digit code. Enter each digit within five seconds of the previous one. The power door locks should cycle (lock/unlock) to confirm your personal code is accepted.

Do not set a code that includes three of the same number or presents them in sequential order. Thieves can easily figure out these types of codes.

Your personal code does not replace the permanent code that the dealership gave you. You can use either code to unlock your vehicle. If a second personal code is entered, the module will erase the first personal code in favor of the new code.

To exit, press 7/8 and 9/0 simultaneously or allow more than 5 seconds to elapse since a button press occurred and the 5 digit keycode will be programmed.

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Locks and Security

If you wish to erase your personal code, use the following instructions:

Erasing personal code

  1. Enter the factory-set code.
  2. Press 1/2 within five seconds of step 1 and release.
  3. Press the 1/2 control and hold for 2 seconds to erase the customer programmed keycode, within five seconds of step 2.
    The system will now only respond to the factory-set code.

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Unlocking the doors and releasing the trunk with the keyless entry system

The driver's door must be unlocked before any other. If more than five seconds pass between pressing numbers, enter the code again. The system has shut down if the keypad light is out. If the keyless entry system does not work, use the key or remote entry transmitter(s).

  1. To unlock the driver's door, enter one of the two codes. After pressing the fifth number, the driver's door unlocks.
  2. To unlock the passenger's door(s) and liftgate (wagon), press the 3/4 control within five seconds of unlocking the driver's door.

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  1. To unlock the trunk or liftgate (wagon), enter the five-digit factory-set code, then press the 5/6 control within five seconds.

Locking the doors and liftgate (wagon), press the 7/8 and 9/0 controls at the same time. This can be done at any time.

Locks and Security

Autolock (if equipped)

The autolock feature will lock all of the vehicle doors when:

  • all doors are closed
    • the engine is running and
  • you shift into any gear putting the vehicle in motion

The autolock feature repeats when:

  • any door, except the drivers door, is opened then closed while the engine is running and
  • you put the vehicle in motion

Deactivating/activating autolock

There are 2 methods to enable/disable this feature. One through your dealer and the second with a power door lock sequence using the following instructions:

  1. Turn the ignition key to RUN, then press the power door UNLOCK control 3 times.
  2. Turn the ignition key to OFF, then press the power door UNLOCK control 3 times.
  3. Turn the ignition key to RUN, within five seconds press the power door UNLOCK control 1 time. Wait for a delayed horn chirp to confirm the system has been altered.

Pressing the power door UNLOCK control button again will toggle the Autolock/Relock states.

- Turn ignition to OFF to exit.

SECURILOCK® PASSIVE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM

SecuriLock® passive anti-theft system is an engine immobilization system. This system prevents the engine from being started unless a coded key programmed to your vehicle is used.

The SecuriLock ^™ passive anti-theft system is not compatible with non-Ford aftermarket remote start systems. Use of these systems may result in vehicle starting problems and a loss of security protection.

Locks and Security

Automatic arming

The vehicle is armed immediately after switching the ignition to the 3 (OFF) position. The THEFT light in the instrument cluster will flash every two seconds when the vehicle is armed.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Automatic arming - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    A["1"] --> B["2"]
    B --> C["3"]
    C --> D["4"]
    D --> E["5"]
    E --> A

Automatic disarming

Switching the ignition to the 4 (ON) position with a coded key disarms the vehicle. The THEFT light will illuminate for three seconds and then go out. If the THEFT light stays on for an extended period of time or flashes rapidly, have the system serviced by your dealership or a qualified technician.

Key information

Your vehicle is supplied with two coded keys. Only a coded key will start your vehicle. Spare coded keys can be purchased from your dealership. Your dealership can program your key or you can "do it yourself", refer to Programming spare keys.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Key information - 1

natural_image Two identical line drawings of a key with serrated tip and circular base (no text or symbols)

Locks and Security

Certain items may cause vehicle starting issues:

• large metallic objects
• electronic devices on the key chain that can be used to purchase gasoline or similar items
• a second key on the same key ring as the coded key

If any of these items are present, you need to keep these objects from touching the coded key while starting the engine. These objects and devices cannot damage the coded key, but can cause a

momentary NO—START condition if they are too close to the key during engine start. If a problem occurs, turn ignition OFF and restart the engine with all other objects on the key ring held away from the ignition key. Check to make sure the coded key is an approved Mercury coded key.

If your keys are lost or stolen you will need to do the following:

  • Use your spare key to start the vehicle, or
  • Have your vehicle towed to a dealership or a locksmith. The key codes will need to be erased

from your vehicle and new key codes will need to be re-coded.

Replacing coded keys can be very costly and you may want to store an extra programmed key away from the vehicle in a safe place to prevent an unforeseen inconvenience.

The correct coded key must be used for your vehicle. The use of the wrong type of coded key may lead to a "NO-START" condition.

If an unprogrammed key is used in the ignition it will cause a "NO START" condition.

Programming spare keys

A maximum of eight keys can be coded to your vehicle. Only SecuriLock® keys can be used. To program a coded key yourself, you

Diagram showing two key symbols: one with a cross and one with a minus sign, both pointing to a key.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Programming spare keys - 2

Locks and Security

will need two previously programmed coded keys (keys that already operate your vehicle's engine) and the new unprogrammed key(s) readily accessible for timely implementation of each step in the procedure.

If two previously programmed coded keys are not available, you must bring your vehicle to your dealership to have the spare coded key(s) programmed.

Please read and understand the entire procedure before you begin.

  1. Insert the first previously programmed coded key into the ignition and turn the ignition from 3 (OFF) to 4 (ON) (maintain ignition in 4 (ON) for at least one second).

  2. Turn ignition to 3 (OFF) then 2 (LOCK) and remove the first coded key from the ignition.

  3. Within ten seconds of removing the first coded key, insert the

Mercury Sable (2002) - Locks and Security - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    1 --> 2
    2 --> 3
    3 --> 4
    4 --> 5

second previously programmed coded key into the ignition and turn the ignition from 3 (OFF) to 4 (ON) (maintain ignition in 4 (ON) for at least one second but no more than ten seconds).

  1. Turn the ignition to 3 (OFF) then 2 (LOCK) and remove the second coded key from the ignition.

  2. Within 20 seconds of removing the second coded key, insert the new unprogrammed key (new key/valet key) into the ignition and turn the ignition from 3 (OFF) to 4 (ON) (maintain ignition in 4 (ON) for at least one second). This step will program your new key to a coded key.

  3. To program additional new unprogrammed key(s), repeat this procedure from step 1.

If successful, the new coded key(s) will start the vehicle's engine and the theft indicator will illuminate for three seconds and then go out.

If not successful, the new coded key(s) will not start the vehicle's engine and the theft indicator will flash on and off and you may repeat steps 1 through 6. If failure repeats, bring your vehicle to your dealership to have the new spare key(s) programmed.

PERIMETER ALARM SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)

The perimeter anti-theft system will help prevent your vehicle from unauthorized entry.

Locks and Security

If there is any potential perimeter anti-theft problem with your vehicle, ensure ALL remote entry transmitters are brought to the dealership, to aid in troubleshooting.

Arming the system

When armed, this system will help protect your vehicle from unauthorized entry. When unauthorized entry occurs, the system will flash the headlamps and/or parking lamps, and will chirp the horn.

The system is ready to arm whenever the key is removed from the ignition. Any of the following actions will prearm the alarm system:

- Press the remote entry lock control (doors opened or closed).

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- Press 7/8 and 9/0 controls on the keyless entry pad at the same time to lock the doors (doors opened or closed).

- Open a door and press the power door lock control to lock the doors.

There is a 20 second countdown when any of the above actions occur before the vehicle becomes ARMED.

Each door/hood or liftgate (wagon) arm individually, and if any door/hood or liftgate (wagon) is open, then it must be closed for it to be armed.

Locks and Security

When you press the lock control twice within three seconds on your remote entry transmitter, the horn will chirp once to let you know that all doors/hood and liftgate (wagon) are closed.

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natural_image Illustration of a remote control device with buttons and a blue arrow pointing to it (no text or symbols)

If the doors/hood or liftgate (wagon) are not closed and you press the remote entry transmitter twice to confirm the doors are locked, the horn will chirp twice to warn you that a door/hood or liftgate (wagon) is still open.

Disarming the system

You can disarm the system by any of the following actions:

- Unlock the doors by using your remote entry transmitter.

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natural_image Illustration of a remote control device with buttons and a blue arrow pointing to it (no text or symbols)

- Unlock the doors by using your keyless entry pad.

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- Unlock the doors or liftgate with a key. Turn the key full travel (toward the front of the vehicle) to make sure the alarm disarms.

- Turn ignition to ON.

Locks and Security

- Press the PANIC control on the remote entry transmitter. This will only shut the horn OFF when the alarm is sounding. The alarm system will still be armed.

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natural_image Illustration of a portable electronic device with four buttons and a blue dashed line pointing to it (no text or symbols)

Triggering the anti-theft system

The armed system will be triggered if:

  • Any door, liftgate or hood is opened without using the door key or the remote entry transmitter.
    • The trunk is forced opened.

Seating and Safety Restraints

SEATING

Adjustable head restraints

Your vehicle's seats are equipped with head restraints which are vertically adjustable. The purpose of these head restraints is to help limit head motion in the event of a rear collision. To properly adjust your head restraints, lift the head restraint so that it is located directly behind your head or as close to that position as possible. Refer to the following to raise and lower the head restraints.

The head restraints can be moved up and down.

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Push control to lower head restraint.

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natural_image Diagram of a car headrest with arrows indicating force or movement (no text or symbols)

Using the manual lumbar support (if equipped)

The lumbar control is located on the front of the seat cushion.

Turn to adjust lumbar support.

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Seating and Safety Restraints

Adjusting the front manual seat

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Never adjust the driver's seat or seatback when the vehicle is moving.

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Do not pile cargo higher than the seatbacks to reduce the risk of injuring people in a collision or sudden stop.

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Always drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lap belt snug and low across the hips.

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Reclining the seatback can cause an occupant to slide under the seat's safety belt, resulting in severe personal injuries in the of a collision.

Lift handle to move seat forward or backward.

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Pull lever up to adjust seatback.

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Seating and Safety Restraints

Adjusting the front power seat (if equipped)

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Never adjust the driver's seat or seatback when the vehicle is moving.

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Do not pile cargo higher than the seatbacks to avoid injuring people in a collision or sudden stop.

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Always drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lap belt snug and low across the hips.

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Reclining the seatback can reduce the effectiveness of the seat's safety belt in the event of a collision.

The control is located on the outboard side of the seat cushion.

Press to raise or lower the front portion of the seat cushion.

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natural_image Simple diagram of a blue oval shape with a dashed vertical line and downward arrow, no text or symbols present.

Press to raise or lower the rear portion of the seat cushion.

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natural_image Simple diagram of a blue oval shape with a vertical double-headed arrow, no text or symbols present.

Seating and Safety Restraints

Press the control to move the seat forward, backward, up or down.

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REAR SEATS

2nd seat/split-folding rear seat (if equipped)

One or both rear seatbacks can be folded down to provide additional cargo space.

To lower the seatback(s) from inside the vehicle, pull tab to release seat back and then fold seatback down.

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When raising the seatback(s), make sure you hear the seat latch into place.

Seating and Safety Restraints

3rd seat (wagon only)

The third seat faces the rear of the vehicle. For height and weight limits, see the label on the seat cushion. When the seat is down, the back of your wagon has a flat surface for carrying cargo.

To open up the seat:

  1. Unlock the floor panel with the key, then use the handle to fold the floor panel toward the front of the car.
  2. Remove the cargo cover. The cargo cover must be removed or the seatback will not latch in the upright position.

  3. Lift the remote latch release on the left side of the compartment and fold the remaining floor panel until it latches. Make sure the seatback is locked in the upright position.

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To close the seat, make sure the safety belts are properly stowed, then lift the remote latch release and push the seat down until it latches. Pull up on the handle and push the floor panel into place.

Seating and Safety Restraints

SAFETY RESTRAINTS

Personal Safety System

The Personal Safety System provides an improved overall level of frontal crash protection to front seat occupants and is designed to help further reduce the risk of air bag-related injuries. The system is able to analyze different occupant conditions and crash severity before activating the appropriate safety devices to help better protect a range of occupants in a variety of frontal crash situations.

Your vehicle's Personal Safety System consists of:

  • Driver and passenger dual-stage air bag supplemental restraints.
  • Front safety belts with pretensioners, energy management retractors, and safety belt usage sensors.
  • Driver's seat position sensor.
  • Front crash severity sensor.
  • Restraints Control Module (RCM) with impact and safing sensors.
  • Restraint system warning light and back-up tone.
  • The electrical wiring for the air bags, crash sensor(s), safety belt pretensioners, front safety belt usage sensors, driver seat position sensor, and indicator lights.

How does the personal safety system work?

The Personal Safety System can adapt the deployment strategy of your vehicle's safety devices according to crash severity and occupant conditions. A collection of crash and occupant sensors provides information to the Restraints Control Module (RCM). During a crash, the RCM activates the safety belt pretensioners and/or either one or both stages of the dual-stage air bag supplemental restraints based on crash severity and occupant conditions.

The fact that the pretensioners or air bags did not activate for both front seat occupants in a collision does not mean that something is wrong with the system. Rather, it means the Personal Safety System determined the accident conditions (crash severity, belt usage, etc.) were not appropriate to activate these safety devices. Front air bags and pretensioners are designed to activate only in frontal and near-frontal collisions, not rollovers, side-impacts, or rear-impacts unless the collision causes sufficient longitudinal deceleration.

Seating and Safety Restraints

Driver and passenger dual-stage air bag supplemental restraints

The dual-stage air bags offer the capability to tailor the level of air bag inflation energy. A lower, less forceful energy level is provided for more common, moderate-severity impacts. A higher energy level is used for the most severe impacts. Refer to Air bag Supplemental Restraints section in this chapter.

Front crash severity sensor

The front crash severity sensor enhances the ability to detect the severity of an impact. Positioned up front, it provides valuable information early in the crash event on the severity of the impact. This allows your Personal Safety System to distinguish between different levels of crash severity and modify the deployment strategy of the dual-stage air bags and safety belt pretensioners.

Driver's seat position sensor

The driver's seat position sensor allows your Personal Safety System to tailor the deployment level of the driver dual-stage air bag based on seat position. The system is designed to help protect smaller drivers sitting close to the driver air bag by providing a lower air bag output level.

Front safety belt usage sensors

The front safety belt usage sensors detect whether or not the driver and front outboard passenger safety belts are fastened. This information allows your Personal Safety System to tailor the air bag deployment and safety belt pretensioner activation depending upon safety belt usage. Refer to Safety Belt section in this chapter.

Front safety belt pretensioners

The safety belt pretensioners are designed to tighten the safety belts firmly against the occupant's body during a collision. This maximizes the effectiveness of the safety belts and helps properly position the occupant relative to the air bag to improve protection. The safety belt pretensioners can be either activated alone or, if the collision is of sufficient severity, together with the air bags.

Front safety belt energy management retractors

The front safety belt energy management retractors allow webbing to be pulled out of the retractor in a gradual and controlled manner in response to the occupant's forward momentum. This helps reduce the risk of force-related injuries to the occupant's chest by limiting the load on the occupant. Refer to Safety Belt section in this chapter.

Seating and Safety Restraints

Determining if the Personal Safety System is operational

The Personal Safety System uses a warning light in the instrument cluster or a back-up tone to indicate the condition of the system. Refer to the Warning Light section in the Instrument Cluster chapter. Routine maintenance of the Personal Safety System is not required.

The Restraints Control Module (RCM) monitors its own internal circuits and the circuits for the air bag supplemental restraints, crash sensor(s), safety belt pretensioners, front safety belt buckle sensors, and the driver seat position sensor. In addition, the RCM also monitors the restraints warning light in the instrument cluster. A difficulty with the system is indicated by one or more of the following.

  • The warning light will either flash or stay lit.
  • The warning light will not illuminate immediately after ignition is turned on.
  • A series of five beeps will be heard. The tone pattern will repeat periodically until the problem and warning light are repaired.

If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the Personal Safety System serviced at your dealership or by a qualified technician immediately. Unless serviced, the system may not function properly in the event of a collision.

Safety belt precautions

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Always drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lap belt snug and low across the hips.

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To reduce the risk of injury, make sure children sit where they can be properly restrained.

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Never let a passenger hold a child on his or her lap while the vehicle is moving. The passenger cannot protect the child from in a collision.

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All occupants of the vehicle, including the driver, should always properly wear their safety belts, even when an air bag (SRS) is led.

Seating and Safety Restraints

It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a safety belt properly.

In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is significantly more likely to die than a person wearing a seat belt.

Each seating position in your vehicle has a specific safety belt assembly which is made up of one buckle and one tongue that are designed to be used as a pair. 1) Use the shoulder belt on the outside shoulder only. Never wear the shoulder belt under the arm. 2) Never swing the safety belt around your neck over the inside shoulder. 3) Never use a single belt for more than one person.

Always transport children 12 years old and under in the back seat and always properly use appropriate child restraints.

Combination lap and shoulder belts

  1. Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle (the buckle closest to the direction the tongue is coming from) until you hear a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the tongue is securely fastened in the buckle.

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natural_image Diagram of a belt buckle being inserted into a cable, showing no text or symbols

Seating and Safety Restraints

  1. To unfasten, push the release button and remove the tongue from the buckle.

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natural_image Diagram of a belt buckle being inserted into a cable, showing alignment arrows (no text or symbols)

The front and rear outboard safety restraints in the vehicle are combination lap and shoulder belts. The front passenger and rear seat outboard safety belts have two types of locking modes described below:

Energy management retractors

Your vehicle has a seat belt system equipped with energy management retractors at the driver and front outboard passenger seating positions.

An energy management retractor is a device which pays out webbing in a controlled manner. This feature is designed to help further reduce the risk of force-related injuries to the occupant.

Seat belt systems equipped with an energy management retractor must be replaced if they were in use during a frontal collision which resulted in deployment of the frontal air bags. Refer to the Safety belt maintenance section in this chapter.

Vehicle sensitive mode

The vehicle sensitive mode is the normal retractor mode, allowing free shoulder belt length adjustment to your movements and locking in response to vehicle movement. For example, if the driver brakes suddenly or turns a corner sharply, or the vehicle receives an impact of approximately 8 km/h (5 mph) or more, the combination safety belts will lock to help reduce forward movement of the driver and passengers.

Automatic locking mode

In this mode, the shoulder belt is automatically pre-locked. The belt will still retract to remove any slack in the shoulder belt.

The automatic locking mode is not available on the driver safety belt.

Seating and Safety Restraints

When to use the automatic locking mode

- Any time a child safety seat is installed in the vehicle. Children 12 years old and under should be properly restrained in the rear seat whenever possible. Refer to Safety restraints for children or Safety seats for children later in this chapter.

How to use the automatic locking mode

- Buckle the combination lap and shoulder belt.

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natural_image Illustration of a blue and white car seatbelt buckle with motion arrows indicating movement (no text or symbols)

- Grasp the shoulder portion and pull downward until the entire belt is extracted.

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natural_image Line drawing of a car seatbelt with a pull-up cable and directional arrow indicating motion (no text or symbols)

- Allow the belt to retract. As the belt retracts, you will hear a clicking sound. This indicates the safety belt is now in the automatic locking mode.

Seating and Safety Restraints

How to disengage the automatic locking mode

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Ford Motor Company recommends that all safety belt assemblies and attaching hardware should be inspected by a qualifiedician after any collision. Safety belt assemblies not in use during a ton should also be inspected and replaced if either damage or per operation is noted.

Disconnect the combination lap/shoulder belt and allow it to retract completely to disengage the automatic locking mode and activate the vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking mode.

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After any vehicle collision, the seat belt system at all outboard seating positions (except driver, which has no “automatic locking retractor” feature) must be checked by a qualified technician to verify the “automatic locking retractor” feature for child seats is still zoning properly. In addition, all seat belts should be checked for function.

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BELT AND RETRACTOR ASSEMBLY MUST BE REPLACED if the seat belt assembly "automatic locking retractor" feature or other seat belt function is not operating properly when checked to the procedures in Workshop Manual.

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Failure to replace the Belt and Retractor assembly could increase the risk of injury in collisions.

Safety belt pretensioner

Your vehicle is equipped with safety belt pretensioners at the driver and front outboard passenger seating positions.

The safety belt pretensioners are designed to activate only when the safety belts are fastened during certain frontal or near-frontal collisions with sufficient longitudinal deceleration. A safety belt pretensioner is a device which tightens the webbing of the lap and shoulder belts in such a way that they fit more snugly against the body.

Seating and Safety Restraints

The driver and front outboard passenger safety belt system (including retractors, buckles and height adjusters) must be replaced if the vehicle is involved in a collision that results in the activation of the safety belt pretensioners. Refer to the Safety belt maintenance section in this chapter.

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In the event of a collision resulting in the deployment of the front air bags, the front safety belts must be replaced if they use. Failure to replace the safety belt assembly could result in the personal injuries in the event of a collision.

Safety belt usage sensors

The driver and front outboard passenger safety belt buckles are equipped with sensors that detect if the safety belts are fastened. The sensors provide information to the Personal Safety System which can then adapt the air bag deployment or safety belt pretensioner activation based upon safety belt usage.

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The Personal Safety System provides the most benefit to belted occupants. The system monitors and tailors the air bag yment based upon safety belt usage. Failure to properly wear safety belt will increase your risk of injury.

Seating and Safety Restraints

Front safety belt height adjustment

Your vehicle has safety belt height adjustments for the driver and front passenger. Adjust the height of the shoulder belt so the belt rests across the middle of your shoulder.

To lower the shoulder belt height, pull the control down and slide the height adjuster down. To raise the height of the shoulder belt, slide the height adjuster up. Pull down on the height adjuster to make sure it is locked in place.

Position the safety belt height adjusters so that the belt rests across the middle of your shoulder. Failure to adjust the safety belt properly could reduce the effectiveness of the seat belt and increase the risk of injury in a collision.

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natural_image Diagram of a car seatbelt with motion arrows indicating vertical motion (no text or symbols)

Lap belts

Adjusting the center lap belt

The lap belt does not adjust automatically.

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The lap belt should fit snugly and as low as possible around the hips, not across the waist.

Seating and Safety Restraints

Insert the tongue into the correct buckle (the buckle closest to the direction the tongue is coming from). To lengthen the belt, turn the tongue at a right angle to the belt and pull across your lap until it reaches the buckle. To tighten the belt, pull the loose end of the belt through the tongue until it fits snugly across the hips.

Shorten and fasten the belt when not in use.

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Safety belts for rear-facing occupants (wagon only)

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Never use child safety seats in the third seat of a wagon.

Your vehicle is equipped with safety belts containing an adjust tongue at the rear-facing seating positions.

When the adjust tongue of the lap/shoulder combination seat belt is latched into the buckle, the tongue will allow the lap portion to become shorter, but locks the webbing in place to restrict it from becoming longer.

Before you reach and latch a combination lap and shoulder belt having an adjust tongue into the buckle, you may have to lengthen the lap belt portion of it. To lengthen the lap belt, pull some webbing out of the shoulder belt retractor. While holding the webbing below the tongue,

Seating and Safety Restraints

grasp the tongue so that it is parallel to the webbing and slide the tongue upward. Provide enough length so that the tongue can reach the buckle.

To fasten the belt, pull the combination lap and shoulder belt from the retractor so that the shoulder belt portion of the safety belt crosses your shoulder and chest. Be sure the belt is not twisted. If the belt is twisted, remove the twist. Insert the tongue into the proper buckle for your seating position until you hear a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the tongue is securely fastened to the buckle by pulling on the tongue.

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The lap belt should fit snugly and as low as possible around the hips, not across the waist.

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Front and rear seat occupants, including pregnant women, should wear safety belts for optimum protection in an accident.

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Each seating position in your vehicle has a specific safety belt assembly which is made up of one buckle and one tongue that designed to be used as a pair. 1) Use the shoulder belt on the side shoulder only. Never wear the shoulder belt under the arm. Ever swing the safety belt around your neck over the inside der. 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 rear edge of the seat cushion. Pull them out so they will be accessible.

While you are fastened in the seat belt, the shoulder belt adjusts to your movement. However, if you brake hard, turn hard or your vehicle receives an impact of 8 km/h (5 mph) or more, the safety belt will become locked and help reduce your forward movement.

To unfasten the belt, push the red release button on the end of the buckle. This allows the tongue to unlatch from the buckle. While the belt retracts, guide the tongue to its original position to prevent it from striking you or the vehicle.

Safety belt warning light and indicator chime

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The seat belt warning light illuminates in the instrument cluster and a chime sounds to remind the occupants to fasten their safety belts.

Seating and Safety Restraints

Conditions of operation

If... Then...
The driver's safety belt is not buckled before the ignition switch is turned to the ON position...The safety belt warning light illuminates 1-2 minutes and the warning chime sounds 4-8 seconds.
The driver's safety belt is buckled while the indicator light is illuminated and the warning chime is sounding...The safety belt warning light and warning chime turn off.
The driver's safety belt is buckled before the ignition switch is turned to the ON position...The safety belt warning light and indicator chime remain off.

BeltMinder

The BeltMinder feature is a supplemental warning to the safety belt warning function. This feature provides additional reminders to the driver that the driver's safety belt is unbuckled by intermittently sounding a chime and illuminating the safety belt warning lamp in the instrument cluster.

If... Then...
The driver's safety belt is not buckled before the vehicle has reached at least 5 km/h (3 mph) and 1-2 minutes have elapsed since the ignition switch has been turned to ON...The BeltMinder feature is activated - the safety belt warning light illuminates and the warning chime sounds for 6 seconds every 30 seconds, repeating for approximately 5 minutes or until safety belt is buckled.
The driver's safety belt is buckled while the safety belt indicator light is illuminated and the safety belt warning chime is sounding...The BeltMinder feature will not activate.
The driver's safety belt is buckled before the ignition switch is turned to the ON position...The BeltMinder feature will not activate.

The purpose of the BeltMinder is to remind occasional wearers to wear safety belts all of the time.

Seating and Safety Restraints

The following are reasons most often given for not wearing safety belts: (All statistics based on U.S. data)

Reasons given...Consider...
“Crashes are rare events”36 700 crashes occur every day. The more we drive, the more we are exposed to “rare” events, even for good drivers. 1 in 4 of us will be seriously injured in a crash during our lifetime.
“I’m not going far”3 of 4 fatal crashes occur within 25 miles of home.
“Belts are uncomfortable”We design our safety belts to enhance comfort. If you are uncomfortable - try different positions for the safety belt upper anchorage and seatback which should be as upright as possible; this can improve comfort.
“I was in a hurry”Prime time for an accident. BeltMinder reminds us to take a few seconds to buckle up.
“Scat belts don’t work”Safety belts, when used properly, reduce risk of death to front seat occupants by 45% in cars, and by 60% in light trucks.
“Traffic is light”Nearly 1 of 2 deaths occur in single-vehicle crashes, many when no other vehicles are around.
“Belts wrinkle my clothes”Possibly, but a serious crash can do much more than wrinkle your clothes, particularly if you are unbelted.
“The people I’m with don’t wear belts”Set the example, teen deaths occur 4 times more often in vehicles with TWO or MORE people. Children and younger brothers/sisters imitate behavior they see.
“I have an air bag”Air bags offer greater protection when used with safety belts. Frontal airbags are not designed to inflate in rear and side crashes or rollovers.
“I’d rather be thrown clear”Not a good idea. People who are ejected are 40 times more likely to DIE. Safety belts help prevent ejection, WE CAN’T “PICK OUR CRASH”.

Seating and Safety Restraints

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Do not sit on top of a buckled safety belt to avoid the Belt Minder chime. Sitting on the safety belt will increase the risk of in an accident. To disable (one-time) or deactivate the Belt feature please follow the directions stated below.

One time disable

Anytime the safety belt is buckled and then unbuckled during an ignition ON cycle, BeltMinder will be disabled for that ignition cycle only. The safety belt needs to be latched for a minimum of 3 seconds before belt minder is disabled.

Deactivating/activating the BeltMinder feature

Read steps 1 - 9 thoroughly before proceeding with the deactivation/activation programming procedure.

The BeltMinder feature can be deactivated/activated by performing the following procedure:

Before following the procedure, make sure that:

• the parking brake is set
• the gearshift is in P (Park) (automatic transmission)
- the ignition switch is in the OFF position
- all vehicle doors are closed
• the driver's safety belt is unbuckled
- the parklamps/headlamps are in OFF position (If vehicle is equipped with Autolamps, this will not affect the procedure.)

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To reduce the risk of injury, do not deactivate/activate the Belt Minder feature while driving the vehicle.

  1. Turn the ignition switch to the RUN (or ON) position. (DO NOT START THE ENGINE)
  2. Wait until the safety belt warning light turns off. (Approximately 1-2 minutes)
  3. Steps 3–5 must be completed within 60 seconds or the procedure will have to be repeated.

Seating and Safety Restraints

  1. Buckle then unbuckle the safety belt three times, ending with the safety belt unbuckled. This can be done before or during BeltMinder warning activation.
  2. Turn on the parklamps/headlamps, turn off the parklamps/headlamps.
  3. Buckle then unbuckle the safety belt three times, ending with the safety belt unbuckled.
  4. After step 5 the safety belt warning light will be turned on for three seconds.
  5. Within seven seconds of the safety belt warning light turning off, buckle then unbuckle the safety belt.
  6. This will disable BeltMinder if it is currently enabled, or enable BeltMinder if it is currently disabled.
  7. Confirmation of disabling BeltMinder is provided by flashing the safety belt warning light four times per second for three seconds.
  8. Confirmation of enabling BeltMinder is provided by flashing the safety belt warning light four times per second for three seconds, followed by three seconds with the safety belt warning light off, then followed by flashing the safety belt warning light four times per second for three seconds again.
  9. After receiving confirmation, the deactivation/activation procedure is complete.

Safety belt extension assembly

If the safety belt is too short when fully extended, there is a 20 cm (8 inch) safety belt extension assembly that can be added (part number 611C22). This assembly can be obtained from your dealer at no cost.

Use only extensions manufactured by the same supplier as the safety belt. Manufacturer identification is located at the end of the webbing on the label. Also, use the safety belt extension only if the safety belt is too short for you when fully extended.

Do not use extensions to change the fit of the shoulder belt across the torso.

Safety belt maintenance

Inspect the safety belt systems periodically to make sure they work properly and are not damaged. Inspect the safety belts to make sure there are no nicks, tears or cuts. Replace if necessary. All safety belt

Seating and Safety Restraints

assemblies, including retractors, buckles, front seat belt buckle assemblies, buckle support assemblies (slide bar-if equipped), shoulder belt height adjusters (if equipped), shoulder belt guide on seatback (if equipped), child safety seat tether bracket assemblies (if equipped), LATCH child seat tether anchors and lower anchors (if equipped), and attaching hardware, should be inspected after a collision. Ford Motor Company recommends that all safety belt assemblies used in vehicles involved in a collision be replaced. However, if the collision was minor and a qualified technician finds that the belts do not show damage and continue to operate properly, they do not need to be replaced. Safety belt assemblies not in use during a collision should also be inspected and replaced if either damage or improper operation is noted.

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Failure to inspect and if necessary replace the safety belt assembly under the above conditions could result in several injuries in the event of a collision.

Refer to Cleaning and maintaining the safety belts in the Cleaning chapter.

AIR BAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM

Mercury Sable (2002) - AIR BAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM - 1

natural_image Line drawing of a car dashboard and steering wheel (no text or symbols)

Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and diagnostic module which records information about the air bag and sensor systems. In the event of a collision this module may save information related to the collision including information about the air bag system and impact severity. This information will assist Ford in the servicing of your vehicle and may help Ford better understand real world collisions and further improve the safety of future vehicles.

Seating and Safety Restraints

The air bag supplemental restraint system is designed to work in conjunction with the safety belts to help protect the driver and front outboard passenger from certain upper body injuries. The term "supplemental restraint" means the air bags are intended as a supplement to the safety belts. Air bags alone cannot protect as well as air bags plus safety belts in impacts for which the air bags are designed to deploy, and air bags do not offer any protection in crashes for which they do not deploy.

HOW DO THE AIR BAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINTS WORK?

The air bag supplemental restraint system consists of:

  • driver and passenger dual stage air bag modules (which include the inflators and air bags).
  • side air bags (if equipped). Refer to Side air bag system later in this chapter.
    • one or more impact and safing sensors.
  • the same indicator light, RCM (restraints control module) and diagnostic unit used for the Personal safety system.

The air bag supplemental restraints are an integral part of the Personal Safety System. They are designed to be deployed in cases where the Personal Safety System has determined the occupant conditions and crash severity are appropriate to activate these devices. Refer to the Personal Safety System section in this chapter.

Important supplemental restraint system precautions

Air bags DO NOT inflate slowly or gently and the risk of injury from a deploying air bag is greatest close to the trim covering the air bag module.

Diagram illustrating car seatbelt usage rules with blue car seats and cross symbols indicating no or equal use.

Seating and Safety Restraints

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All occupants of the vehicle, including the driver, should always properly wear their safety belts, even when an air bag (SRS) is ded.

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Always transport children 12 years old and under in the back seat and always properly use appropriate child restraints.

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National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends a minimum distance of at least 25 cm (10 inches) been an occupant's chest and the driver air bag module.

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Never place your arm over the air bag module as a deploying air bag can result in serious arm fractures or other injuries.

Steps you can take to properly position yourself away from the airbag:

  • Move your seat to the rear as far as you can while still reaching the pedals comfortably.
  • Recline the seat slightly (one or two degrees) from the upright position.

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Do not put anything on or over the air bag module. Placing objects on or over the air bag inflation area may cause those to be propelled by the air bag into your face and torso causing its injury.

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Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System or its fuses. See your Ford or in Mercury dealer.

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The front passenger air bag is not designed to offer protection to an occupant in the center front seating position.

Seating and Safety Restraints

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Modifications to the front end of the vehicle, including frame, bumper, front end body structure and tow hooks may affect the

performance of the air bag sensors increasing the risk of injury. Do not modify the front end of the vehicle.

Children and air bags

For additional important safety information, read all information on safety restraints in this guide.

Children must always be properly restrained. Accident statistics suggest that children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating position. Failure to follow these instructions may increase the risk of injury in a collision.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Children and air bags - 1

Air bags can kill or injure a child in a child seat.

NEVER place a rear-facing child seat in front of an active air bag. If you must use a forward-facing child seat in the front seat, move the seat all the way back.

Diagram illustrating car safety rules with cross symbol indicating crossed safety zones

Seating and Safety Restraints

How do the air bag supplemental restraints work?

The air bags inflate and deflate rapidly upon activation. After air bag deployment, it is normal to notice a smoke-like, powdery residue or smell the burnt propellant. This may consist of cornstarch, talcum powder (to lubricate the bag) or sodium compounds (e.g., baking soda) that result from the combustion process that inflates the air bag. Small amounts of sodium hydroxide may be present which may irritate the skin and eyes, but none of the residue is toxic.

While the system is designed to help reduce serious injuries, contact with a deploying air bag may also cause abrasions, swelling or temporary hearing loss. Because air bags must inflate rapidly and with considerable force, there is the risk of death or serious injuries such as fractures, facial and eye injuries or internal injuries, particularly to occupants who are not properly restrained or are otherwise out of position at the time of air bag deployment. Thus, it is extremely important that occupants be properly restrained as far away from the air bag module as possible while maintaining vehicle control.

Mercury Sable (2002) - How do the air bag supplemental restraints work? - 1

natural_image Line drawing of a human ear with a device attached, showing no text or symbols

Mercury Sable (2002) - How do the air bag supplemental restraints work? - 2

Several air bag system components get hot after inflation. Do not touch them after inflation.

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If the air bag has deployed, the air bag will not function again and must be replaced immediately. If the air bag is not fixed, the unrepaired area will increase the risk of injury in a position.

Determining if the system is operational

The supplemental restraint system uses a warning indicator in the instrument cluster or a back-up tone to indicate the condition of the system. Refer to the Warning light section in the Instrument cluster chapter. Routine maintenance of the air bag is not required.

Seating and Safety Restraints

A difficulty with the system is indicated by one or more of the following:

- The readiness light (same light for front and side air bag system) will either flash or stay lit.

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  • The readiness light will not illuminate immediately after ignition is turned on.
  • A series of five beeps will be heard. The tone pattern will repeat periodically until the problem and/or light are repaired.

If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the supplemental restraint system serviced at your dealership or by a qualified technician immediately. Unless serviced, the system may not function properly in the event of a collision.

Side air bag system (if equipped)

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Do not place objects or mount equipment on or near the air bag cover on the side of the seatbacks of the front seats or in front seat areas that may come into contact with a deploying air bag. Failure to follow these instructions may increase the risk of personal injury in the event of a collision.

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Do not use accessory seat covers. The use of accessory seat covers may prevent the deployment of the side air bags and increase the risk of injury in an accident.
Do not use accessory seat covers. The use of accessory seat covers may prevent the deployment of the side air bags and increase the risk of injury in an accident.
Do not use accessory seat covers. The use of accessory seat covers may prevent the deployment of the side air bags and increase the risk of injury in an accident.
Do not use accessory seat covers. The use of accessory seat covers may prevent the deployment of the side air bags and increase the risk of injury in an accident.
Do not use accessory seat covers. The use of accessory seat covers may prevent the deployment of the side air bags and increase the risk of injury in an accident.
Do not use accessory seat covers. The use of accessory seat covers may prevent the deployment of the side air bags and increase the risk of injury in an accident.
Do not use accessory seat covers. The use of accessory seat covers may prevent the deployment of the side air bags and increase the risk of injury in an accident.
Do not use accessory seat covers. The use of accessory seat covers may prevent the deployment of the side air bags and increase the risk of injury in an accident.
Do not use accessory seat covers. The use of accessory seat covers may prevent the deployment of the side air bags and increase the risk of injury in an accident.
Do not use accessory seat covers. The use of accessory seat covers may prevent the deployment of the side air bags and increase the risk of injury in an accident.
Do not use accessory seat covers. The use of accessory seat covers may prevent the deployment of the side air bags and increase the risk of injury in an accident.
Do not use accessory seat covers. The use of accessory seat covers may prevent the deployment of the side air bags and increase the risk of injury in an accident.
Do not use accessory seat covers. The use of accessory seat covers may prevent the deployment of the side air bags and increase the risk of injury in an accident.
Do not use accessory seat covers. The use of accessory seat covers may prevent the deployment of the side air bags and increase the risk of injury in an accident.
Do not use accessory seat covers. The use of accessory seat covers may prevent the deployment of the side air bags and increase the risk of injury in an accident.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Side air bag system (if equipped) - 4

Seating and Safety Restraints

How does the side air bag system work?

The side air bag system consists of the following:

  • An inflatable nylon bag (air bag) with a gas generator concealed behind the outboard bolster of the driver and front passenger seatbacks.
  • A special seat cover designed to allow airbag deployment.
  • The same warning light, electronic control and diagnostic unit as used for the front air bags.
  • Two crash sensors located under the outboard side of the front seats, attached to the floor.

Mercury Sable (2002) - How does the side air bag system work? - 1

natural_image Diagram of a car interior showing seatbelt and seatbelt lock positions (no text or labels)

Side air bags, in combination with seat belts, can help reduce the risk of severe injuries in the event of a significant side impact collision.

The side air bags are fitted on the outboard side of the seatbacks of the front seats. In certain lateral collisions, the air bag on the side affected by the collision will be inflated, even if the respective seat is not occupied. The air bag was designed to inflate between the door panel and occupant to further enhance the protection provided occupants in side impact collisions.

The air bag SRS is designed to activate when the vehicle sustains lateral deceleration sufficient to cause the sensors to close an electrical circuit that initiates air bag inflation.

The fact that the air bags did not inflate in a collision does not mean that something is wrong with the system. Rather, it means the forces were not of the type sufficient to cause activation. Side air bags are designed to inflate in side-impact collisions, not roll-over, rear-impact, frontal or near-frontal collisions, unless the collision causes sufficient lateral deceleration.

Seating and Safety Restraints

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Several air bag system components get hot after

inflation. Do not touch them after inflation.

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If the side air bag has deployed, the air bag will

not function again. The side air bag system (including the seat) must be inspected and serviced by a qualified technician in accordance with the vehicle service manual. If the air bag is not replaced, the unrepaired area will increase the risk of injury in a collision.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Seating and Safety Restraints - 3

natural_image Line drawing of a hand holding a small object, next to a blue handheld device on a chair (no text or symbols)

Disposal of air bags and air bag equipped vehicles

For disposal of air bags or air bag equipped vehicles, see your local dealership or qualified technician. Air bags MUST BE disposed of by qualified personnel.

SAFETY RESTRAINTS FOR CHILDREN

See the following sections for directions on how to properly use safety restraints for children. Also see Air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) in this chapter for special instructions about using air bags.

Important child restraint precautions

You are required by law to use safety restraints for children in the U.S. and Canada. If small children ride in your vehicle (generally children who are four years old or younger and who weigh 18 kg [40 lbs] or less), you must put them in safety seats made especially for children. Check your local and state or provincial laws for specific requirements regarding the safety of children in your vehicle.

Seating and Safety Restraints

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Never let a passenger hold a child on his or her lap while the vehicle is moving. The passenger cannot protect the child from v in a collision.

Always follow the instructions and warnings that come with any infant or child restraint you might use.

When possible, always place children under age 12 in the rear seat of your vehicle. Accident statistics suggest that children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions.

Children and safety belts

If the child is the proper size, restrain the child in a safety seat.

Children who are too large for child safety seats (as specified by your child safety seat manufacturer) should always wear safety belts.

Follow all the important safety restraint and air bag precautions that apply to adult passengers in your vehicle.

If the shoulder belt portion of a combination lap and shoulder belt can be positioned so it does not cross 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.

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Do not leave children, unreliable adults, or pets unattended in your vehicle.

To improve the fit of lap and shoulder belts on children who have outgrown child safety seats, Ford recommends use of a belt-positioning booster seat that is labeled as conforming to all applicable Federal motor vehicle safety standards. Belt-positioning booster seats raise the child and provide a shorter, firmer seating cushion that encourages safer seating posture and better fit of lap and shoulder belts on the child.

A belt-positioning booster seat 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 short to let the child sit all the way back on the seat cushion when the lower legs hang over the edge of the seat cushion. You may wish to discuss the special needs of your child with your pediatrician.

Seating and Safety Restraints

SAFETY SEATS FOR CHILDREN

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Child and infant or child safety seats

Use a safety seat that is recommended for the size and weight of the child. Carefully follow all of the manufacturer's instructions with the safety seat you put in your vehicle. If you do not install and use the safety seat properly, the child may be injured in a sudden stop or collision.

When installing a child safety seat:

  • Review and follow the information presented in the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System section in this chapter.
  • Use the correct safety belt buckle for that seating position.
  • Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle until you hear a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the tongue is securely fastened in the buckle.
  • Keep the buckle release button pointing up and away from the safety seat, with the tongue between the child seat and the release button, to prevent accidental unbuckling.
  • Place seat back in upright position.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Child and infant or child safety seats - 1

natural_image Line drawing of a hand using a buckle to lift a seatbelt (no text or symbols)

Seating and Safety Restraints

- Put the safety belt in the automatic locking mode. Refer to Automatic locking mode.

Ford recommends the use of a child safety seat having a top tether strap. Install the child safety seat in a seating position which is capable of providing a tether anchorage. For more information on top tether straps, refer to Attaching safety seals with tether straps in this chapter.

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Carefully follow all of the manufacturer's instructions included with the safety seat you put in your vehicle. If you do not install se the safety seat properly, the child may be injured in a sudden or collision.

Installing child safety seats in combination lap and shoulder belt seating positions

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Air bags can kill or injure a child in a child seat. NEVER place a rear-facing child seat in front of an active air bag. If you must forward-facing child seat in the front seat, move the seat all the back.

  1. Position the child safety seat in a seat with a combination lap and shoulder belt.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Installing child safety seats in combination lap and shoulder belt seating positions - 2

natural_image Line drawing of a car seat with blue cushion (no text or symbols)

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Children 12 and under should be properly restrained in the rear seat whenever possible.

Seating and Safety Restraints

  1. Pull down on the shoulder belt and then grasp the shoulder belt and lap belt together.
  2. While holding the shoulder and lap belt portions together, route the tongue through the child seat according to the child seat manufacturer's instructions. Be sure the belt webbing is not twisted.
  3. Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle (the buckle closest to the direction the tongue is coming from) for that seating position until you hear a snap and feel the latch engage. Make sure the tongue is latched securely by pulling on it.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Seating and Safety Restraints - 1

natural_image Line drawing of a car seatbelt with a blue arrow indicating direction (no text or symbols)

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natural_image Line drawing of a car seat with a blue arrow indicating direction (no text or symbols)

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natural_image Illustration of a blue belt buckle being adjusted to a white belt buckle (no text or symbols)

Seating and Safety Restraints

  1. To put the retractor in the automatic locking mode, grasp the shoulder portion of the belt and pull downward until all of the belt is extracted and a click is heard.

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natural_image Diagram of a car seatbelt with blue directional arrows indicating movement (no text or symbols)
  1. Allow the belt to retract. The belt will click as it retracts to indicate it is in the automatic locking mode.

  2. Pull the lap belt portion across the child seat toward the buckle and pull up on the shoulder belt while pushing down with your knee on the child seat.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Seating and Safety Restraints - 2

natural_image Diagram of a car seatbelt with blue arrows indicating direction (no text or symbols)
  1. Allow the safety belt to retract to remove any slack in the belt.

  2. Before placing the child in the seat, forcibly tilt the seat forward and back to make sure the seat is securely held in place. To check this, grab the seat at the belt path and attempt to move it side to side and forward and back. There should be no more than one inch of movement for proper installation.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Seating and Safety Restraints - 3

natural_image Illustration of a car seatbelt with blue directional arrows indicating movement or force (no text or symbols)
  1. Try to pull the belt out of the retractor to make sure the retractor is in the automatic locking mode (you should not be able to pull more belt out). If the retractor is not locked, unbuckle the belt and repeat steps two through nine.

Check to make sure the child seat is properly secured before each use.

Seating and Safety Restraints

Installing child safety seats in the lap belt seating positions

  1. Lengthen the lap belt. To lengthen the belt, hold the tongue so that its bottom is perpendicular to the direction of webbing while sliding the tongue up the webbing.
  2. Place the child safety seat in the center seating position.
  3. Route the tongue and webbing through the child seat according to the child seat manufacturer's instructions.
  4. Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle for the center seating position until you hear a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the tongue is securely fastened to the buckle by pulling on tongue.
  5. Push down on the child seat while pulling on the loose end of the lap belt webbing to tighten the belt.
  6. Before placing the child into the child seat, forcibly tilt the child seat from side to side and in forward direction to make sure that the seat is securely held in place. To check this, grab the seat at the belt path and attempt to move it side to side and forward and back. There should be no more than one inch of movement for proper installation.

Attaching child safety seats with tether straps

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Most new forward-facing child safety seats include a tether strap which goes over the back of the seat and hooks to an anchoring point. Tether straps are available as an accessory for many older safety seats. Contact the manufacturer of your child seat for information about ordering a tether strap.

The rear seats of your vehicle are equipped with built-in tether strap anchors located behind the seats as described below.

The tether anchors in your vehicle are located under a cover marked with the tether anchor symbol (shown with title).

The tether strap anchors in your vehicle are in the following positions (shown from top view):

Mercury Sable (2002) - Attaching child safety seats with tether straps - 2

natural_image Pure electrical circuit lines without any symbols

Seating and Safety Restraints

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Attach the tether strap only to the appropriate tether anchor as shown. The tether strap may not work properly if attached where other than the correct tether anchor.

  1. Position the child safety seat on the seat cushion.
  2. Route the child safety seat tether strap over the back of the seat.
    For vehicles with adjustable head restraints, route the tether strap under the head restraint and between the head restraint posts, otherwise route the tether strap over the top of the seatback.
  3. Locate the correct anchor for the selected seating position.

  4. Open the tether anchor cover.

  5. Clip the tether strap to the anchor as shown.

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If the tether strap is clipped, incorrectly, the child safety may not be retained properly or event of a collision.

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natural_image Diagram of a car interior showing a lid, vent, and side view with a blue arrow indicating rotation (no text or symbols)

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natural_image Line drawing of a car seatbelt device with blue motion arrows indicating rotation (no text or symbols)
  1. Refer to the Installing child safety seats in combination lap and shoulder belt seating positions section of this chapter for further instructions to secure the child safety seat.

Seating and Safety Restraints

  1. Tighten the child safety seat tether strap according to the manufacturer's instructions.

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If the safety seat is not anchored properly, the risk of a child being injured in a collision greatly increases.

Attaching safety seats with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) attachments for child seat anchors

Some child safety seats have two rigid or webbing mounted attachments that connect to two anchors at certain seating positions in your vehicle. This type of child seat eliminates the need to use seat belts to attach the child seat. For forward-facing child seats, the tether strap must also be attached to the proper tether anchor. See Attaching safety seats with tether straps in this chapter.

Your vehicle has LATCH anchors for child seat installation at the seating positions marked with the child seat symbol.

All the LATCH lower anchors are equally spaced, so that a single LATCH child seat can be installed at any rear seating position. If two child safety seats are installed using the LATCH lower anchors, they must be placed in the outboard seating positions only. If three child safety seats are installed, use the LATCH lower anchors for the center child safety seat; however, you must use child safety seats with lap/shoulder belts and tether anchors for the outboard child seats.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Attaching safety seats with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) attachments for child seat anchors - 1

natural_image Simple diagram with three rectangular blocks and a small light bulb, no text or symbols present

Mercury Sable (2002) - Attaching safety seats with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) attachments for child seat anchors - 2

Never attach two LATCH child safety seats to the same anchor. In a crash, one anchor may not be strong enough to hold two safety seat attachments and may break, causing serious injury or

Seating and Safety Restraints

The lower anchors for child seat installation are located at the rear section of the rear seat between the cushion and seat back. The LATCH anchors are below the locator symbols on the seat back.

Diagram showing two car exhaust stations with directional arrows indicating movement or flow, marked with 'E' symbols.

Follow the child seat manufacturer's instructions to properly install a child seat with LATCH attachments. Two plastic LATCH guides can be obtained at no charge from any Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. They snap onto the LATCH lower anchors in the seat to help attach a child seat with rigid attachments. The guides hold the seat trim away to expose the anchor and make it easier to attach some child seats.

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Attach LATCH lower attachments of the child seat only to the anchors shown.

If you install a child seat with rigid LATCH attachments, do not tighten the tether strap enough to lift the child seat off the vehicle seat cushion when the child is seated in it. Keep the tether strap just snug without lifting the front of the child seat. Keeping the child seat just touching the vehicle seat gives the best protection in a severe crash.

Each time you use the safety seat, check that the seat is properly attached to the lower anchors and tether anchor. Try to tilt the child seat from side to side. Also try to tug the seat forward. Check to see if the anchors hold the seat in place.

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If the safety seat is not anchored properly, the risk of a child being injured in a crash greatly increases.

Driving

STARTING

Positions of the ignition

  1. ACCESSORY, allows the electrical accessories such as the radio to operate while the engine is not running.
  2. LOCK, locks the steering wheel, automatic transmission gearshift lever and allows key removal.
  3. OFF, shuts off the engine without locking the steering wheel.
  4. ON, all electrical circuits operational. Warning lights illuminated with engine off. Key position when driving.
  5. START, cranks the engine. Release the key as soon as the engine starts.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Positions of the ignition - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    1 --> A["Central Circle"]
    2 --> A
    3 --> A
    4 --> A
    5 --> A

Preparing to start your vehicle

Engine starting is controlled by the powertrain control system. This system meets all Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment standard requirements regulating the impulse electrical field strength of radio noise.

When starting a fuel-injected engine, avoid pressing the accelerator before or during starting. Only use the accelerator when you have difficulty starting the engine. For more information on starting the vehicle, refer to Starting the engine in this chapter.

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Extended idling at high engine speeds can produce very high temperatures in the engine and exhaust system, creating the risk or other damage.

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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.

Driving

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Do not start your vehicle in a closed garage or in other enclosed areas. Exhaust fumes can be toxic. Always open the garage door e you start the engine. See Guarding against exhaust fumes in chapter for more instructions.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Driving - 2

If you smell exhaust fumes inside your vehicle, have your dealer inspect your vehicle immediately. Do not drive if you smell last fumes.

Important safety precautions

A computer system controls the engine's idle revolutions per minute (RPM). When the engine starts, the idle RPM runs higher than normal in order to warm the engine. If the engine idle speed does not slow down automatically, have the vehicle checked. Do not allow the vehicle to idle for more than 10 minutes at the higher engine RPM.

Before starting the vehicle:

  1. Make sure all vehicle occupants have buckled their safety belts. For more information on safety belts and their proper usage, refer to the Seating and safety restraints chapter.

  2. Make sure the headlamps and vehicle accessories are off.

  3. Make sure the gearshift is in P (Park).

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R N

Mercury Sable (2002) - Important safety precautions - 2

1

Driving

  1. Make sure the parking brake is set.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Driving - 1

natural_image Line drawing of a car interior showing a blue pushpin and dashboard (no text or symbols)
  1. Turn the key to 4 (ON) without turning the key to 5 (START).

If there is difficulty in turning the key, firmly rotate the steering wheel left and right until the key turns freely. This condition may occur when:

Mercury Sable (2002) - Driving - 2

flowchart
graph TD
    A["1"] --> B["2"]
    B --> C["3"]
    C --> D["4"]
    D --> E["5"]
    style A fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style B fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style C fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style D fill:#fcc,stroke:#333
    style E fill:#ffc,stroke:#333
  • front wheels are turned
    • front wheel is against the curb
  • steering wheel is turned when getting in or out of the vehicle

FULL DOOR E 20° MPH RPM/4 120 PR N D 1 RPM/MOD 80 140° 100 + 20 - 100 s 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 F H D

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

4 light may not illuminate.

Driving

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) without pressing the accelerator pedal and release as soon as the engine starts. The key will return to 4 (ON).

  2. If the temperature is above -12^ C ( 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.

  1. 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.

  2. When the engine starts, release the key, then release the accelerator pedal gradually as the engine speeds up.

  3. After idling for a few seconds, apply the brake, shift into gear and drive.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Starting the engine - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    A["1"] --> B["2"]
    B --> C["3"]
    C --> D["4"]
    D --> E["5"]
    style A fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style B fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style C fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style D fill:#fcc,stroke:#333
    style E fill:#cff,stroke:#333

Cold weather starting (flexible fuel vehicles only)

As the outside temperature approaches freezing, ethanol fuel distributors should supply winter grade ( E_d85 ) ethanol (same as with unleaded gasoline). If summer grade ( E_d85 ) ethanol is used in cold weather conditions, 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 ( E_d85 ) ethanol.

High-quality blends of winter grade ( E_d85 ) ethanol will produce satisfactory cold weather starting and driving results. However, fuel composition varies, and sub-optimal winter grade blends could produce increased cranking times, rough idle or hesitation at temperatures below -18 degrees C (0 degrees F). If you experience this condition you may find that a different brand of winter grade ( E_d85 ) (if available in your area) improves the performance of your vehicle.

Cold starting performance can also be improved with the use of an engine block heater. The engine block heater is available as a Ford

Driving

option and can also be obtained from your Ford dealer. Consult the engine block heater section for proper use of the engine block heater.

If you should experience cold weather starting problems on (E_d85) ethanol, and neither an alternative brand of (E_d85) ethanol nor an engine block heater is available, the addition of unleaded gasoline to your tank will improve cold starting performance. Your vehicle is designed to operate on (E_d85) ethanol alone, unleaded gasoline alone, or any mixture of the two.

If the engine fails to start using the preceding instructions

  1. Press the accelerator pedal 1/3 to 1/2 way to floor and hold.
  2. Turn the key to START position.
  3. When the engine starts, release the key, then release the accelerator pedal gradually as the engine speeds up.
  4. If the engine still fails to start, repeat steps one through three.
  5. After the engine starts, hold your foot on the brake pedal, put the gearshift lever in gear and release the parking brake. Slowly release the brake pedal and drive away in a normal manner.

Using the engine block heater (if equipped)

An engine block heater warms the engine coolant, which improves starting, warms up the engine faster and allows the heater-defroster system to respond quickly. Use of an engine block heater is strongly recommended if you live in a region where temperatures reach -23^ C ( -10^ F) or below.

For best results, plug the heater in at least three hours before starting the vehicle. Using the heater for longer than three hours will not harm the engine, so the heater can be plugged in the night before starting the vehicle.

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To prevent electrical shock, do not use your heater with ungrounded electrical systems or two-pronged (cheater) ers.

Guarding against exhaust fumes

Although odorless and colorless, carbon monoxide is present in exhaust fumes. Take precautions to avoid its dangerous effects.

Driving

If you ever smell exhaust fumes of any kind inside your vehicle, have your dealer inspect and fix your vehicle immediately. Do not drive if you smell exhaust fumes. These fumes are harmful and could kill you.

Have the exhaust and body ventilation systems checked whenever:

• the vehicle is raised for service
• the sound of the exhaust system changes
• the vehicle has been damaged in a collision

WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. In addition, certain fluids contained in vehicles and certain products of component wear contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Important ventilating information

If the engine is idling while the vehicle is stopped in an open area for long periods of time, open the windows at least 2.5 cm (one inch).

Adjust the heating or air conditioning (if equipped) to bring in fresh air.

Improve vehicle ventilation by keeping all air inlet vents clear of snow, leaves and other debris.

BRAKES

Your service brakes are self-adjusting. Refer to the scheduled maintenance guide for scheduled maintenance.

Occasional brake noise is normal and often does not indicate a performance concern with the vehicle's brake system. In normal operation, automotive brake systems may emit occasional or intermittent squeal or groan noises when the brakes are applied. Such noises are usually heard during the first few brake applications in the morning; however, they may be heard at any time while braking and can be aggravated by environmental conditions such as cold, heat, moisture, road dust, salt or mud. If a "metal-to-metal," "continuous grinding" or

Driving

“continuous squeal” sound is present while braking, the brake linings may be worn-out and should be inspected by a qualified service technician.

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If you are driving down a long or steep hill, shift to a lower gear. Do not apply your brakes continuously, as they may overheat become less effective.

Anti-lock brake system (ABS) (if equipped)

On vehicles equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), a noise from the hydraulic pump motor and pulsation in the pedal may be observed during ABS braking events. Pedal pulsation coupled with noise while braking under panic conditions or on loose gravel, bumps, wet or snowy roads is normal and indicates proper functioning of the vehicle's anti-lock brake system. The ABS performs a self-check after you start the engine and begin to drive away. A brief mechanical noise may be heard during this test. This is normal. If a malfunction is found, the ABS warning light will come on. If the vehicle has continuous vibration or shudder in the steering wheel while braking, the vehicle should be inspected by a qualified service technician.

The ABS operates by detecting the onset of wheel lockup during brake applications and compensates for this tendency. The wheels are prevented from locking even when the brakes are firmly applied. The accompanying illustration depicts the advantage of an ABS equipped vehicle (on bottom) to a non-ABS equipped vehicle (on top) during hard braking with loss of front braking traction.

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natural_image Diagram of cars moving along a curved road with black dots, set against a light blue oval background (no text or symbols)

Using ABS

- In an emergency or when maximum efficiency from the four-wheel ABS is required, apply continuous force on the brake. The four wheel ABS will be activated immediately, thus allowing you to retain full steering control of your vehicle and, providing there is sufficient space, will enable you to avoid obstacles and bring the vehicle to a controlled stop.

Driving

  • The anti-lock system does not reduce stopping distance. Always leave enough room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you to stop.
  • We recommend that you familiarize yourself with this braking technique. However, avoid taking any unnecessary risks.

ABS warning lamp (ABS)

The (ABS) warning lamp in the instrument cluster momentarily illuminates when the ignition is turned to the ON position. If the light does not illuminate momentarily at start up, remains on or continues to flash, the ABS needs to be serviced.

With the ABS light on, the anti-lock brake system is disabled and normal braking is still effective unless the brake warning light also remains illuminated with parking brake

released. (If your brake warning lamp illuminates, have your vehicle serviced immediately.)

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Parking brake (P)

Apply the parking brake whenever the vehicle is parked. To set the parking brake, press the parking brake pedal down until the pedal stops.

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natural_image Line drawing of a car interior showing a blue brake lever and adjustment knob (no text or symbols)

Driving

The BRAKE warning lamp in the instrument cluster illuminates and remains illuminated (when the ignition is turned ON) until the parking brake is released.

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Always set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park).

The parking brake is not recommended to stop a moving vehicle. However, if the normal brakes fail, the parking brake can be used to stop your vehicle in an emergency. Since the parking brake applies only the rear brakes, the vehicle's stopping distance will increase greatly and the handling of your vehicle will be adversely affected.

Pull the release lever to release the brake. Driving with the parking brake on will cause the brakes to wear out quickly and reduce fuel economy.

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natural_image Line drawing of a car interior showing the dashboard and steering wheel (no text or symbols)

Park brake warning chime

Sounds when the parking brake is set, the engine is running and the transaxle is not in P (Park) or N (Neutral). The chime will shut off when the parking brake is disengaged.

TRACTION CONTROL ^™ (IF EQUIPPED)

Your vehicle may be equipped with the optional Traction Control ^® system. This system helps you maintain the stability and steerability of your vehicle. It is especially useful on slippery and/or hilly road surfaces.

Driving

The system operates by detecting and controlling wheel spin. The system borrows many of the electronic and mechanical elements already present in the anti-lock braking system (ABS).

Wheel-speed sensors allow excess front wheel spin to be detected by the Traction Control ^™ portion of the ABS computer. Any excessive wheel spin is controlled by automatically applying and releasing the front brakes in conjunction with engine torque reductions. Engine torque reduction is realized via the fully electronic spark and fuel injection systems. This process is very sensitive to driving conditions and very fast acting. The front wheels “search” for optimum traction several times a second and adjustments are made accordingly.

The Traction Control ^® system will allow your vehicle to make better use of available traction on slippery surfaces. The system is a driver aid which makes your vehicle easier to handle primarily on snow, ice covered and gravel roads.

During Traction Control ^™ operation, the traction control active light will illuminate, you may hear an electric motor type of sound coming from the engine compartment and the engine will not “rev-up” when you pu is normal system behavior.

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The Traction Control ^® on/off switch, located on the right side of the instrument cluster, illuminates OFF when the system is turned OFF. The Traction Control ^® system will revert to the ON position every time the ignition is turned OFF and ON.

O F T/C F

If you should become stuck in snow or ice or on a very slippery road surface, try switching the Traction Control ^159 system off. This may allow excess wheel spin to “dig” the vehicle out and enable a successful “rocking” maneuver.

If a system fault is detected the traction control active light will illuminate, the Traction Control ^™ on/off switch will not toggle on and off, and your vehicle should be serviced as soon as possible.

Driving

STEERING

Your vehicle is equipped with power steering. Power steering uses energy from the engine to decrease the driver's effort in steering the vehicle.

To prevent damage to the power steering pump:

  • Never hold the steering wheel to the extreme right or the extreme left for more than a few seconds when the engine is running.
  • Do not operate the vehicle with the power steering pump fluid level below the MIN mark on the reservoir.

If the power steering system breaks down (or if the engine is turned off), you can steer the vehicle manually, but it takes more effort.

If the steering wanders or pulls, the condition could be caused by any of the following:

• underinflated tire(s) on any wheel(s)
- uneven vehicle loading
• high crown in center of road
- high crosswinds
• wheels out of alignment
- loose or worn suspension components

This vehicle is equipped with a brake-shift interlock feature that prevents the gearshift lever from being moved from P (Park) when the ignition is in the ON position unless brake pedal is depressed.

If you cannot move the gearshift lever out of P (Park) with ignition in the ON position and the brake pedal depressed:

  1. Apply the parking brake, turn ignition key to LOCK, then remove the key.
  2. Insert the key and turn it to OFF. Apply the brake pedal and shift to N (Neutral).
  3. Start the vehicle.

If it is necessary to use the above procedure to move the gearshift lever, it is possible that a fuse has blown or the vehicle's brakelamps are not operating properly. Refer to Fuses and relays in the Roadside emergencies chapter.

Driving

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Do not drive your vehicle until you verify that the brakelamps are working.

If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow, it may be rocked out by shifting from forward and reverse gears while stopping between shifts, in a steady pattern. Press lightly on the accelerator in each gear. If necessary, try turning the Traction Control ^® system off. This will allow the wheels to spin, which may help to free your stuck vehicle. For more information, refer to Traction Control ^® (if equipped) in this chapter.

Do not rock the vehicle if the engine is not at normal operating temperature or damage to the transaxle may occur.

Do not rock the vehicle for more than a few minutes or damage to the transaxle and tires may occur or the engine may overheat.

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Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the LOCK position and we the key whenever you leave your vehicle.

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If the parking brake is fully released, but the brake warning lamp remains illuminated, the brakes may not be working properly. Our dealer or a qualified service technician.

Driving with an automatic overdrive transaxle

Your automatic transaxle electronically controls the shift feel by using an adaptive learning strategy. This feature is designed to optimize shift smoothness. It is normal for your transaxle to shift firmly during the first few hundred kilometers (miles) of operation until the adaptive strategy has been learned. The adaptive learning strategy is maintained by power from the battery. When the battery is disconnected or a new battery is installed, the transaxle must relearn its adaptive strategy. Optimal shifting will resume within a few hundred kilometers (miles) of operation.

Driving

Your automatic overdrive transaxle provides fully automatic operation in either D (Overdrive) or D (Drive). Driving with the shift selector in D (Overdrive) gives the best fuel economy for normal driving conditions. For manual control start in 1 (First) and then shift manually.

If your vehicle is equipped with a console mounted gearshift, you must press the thumb button on the side of the gearshift lever to move the gearshift lever from P (Park).

To put your vehicle in gear, start the engine, depress the brake pedal, then move the gearshift lever out of P (Park).

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natural_image Line drawing of a hand holding a car steering wheel, no text or symbols present

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natural_image Simple line drawing of a mechanical lever with a blue head and labeled part (no text or symbols beyond basic markings)

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Hold the brake pedal down while you move the gearshift lever from P (Park) to another position. If you do not hold the brake down, your vehicle may move unexpectedly and injure someone.

Driving

Understanding gearshift positions

P (Park)

Always come to a complete stop before shifting into P (Park). Make sure the gearshift lever is securely latched in P (Park). This locks the transaxle and prevent the front wheels from rotating.

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Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the LOCK position and remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.

R (Reverse)

With the gearshift lever in R (Reverse), the vehicle will move backward. You should always come to a complete stop before shifting into and out of R (Reverse).

PRNDD1

P R N O T

PRNDD1

P R N O D

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N (Neutral)

With the gearshift lever in the N (Neutral) position, the vehicle can be started and is free to roll. Hold the brake pedal down while in this position.

PRNDD1

PENDT

(D) (Overdrive)

The Dverdrive) position is the normal driving position for an automatic overdrive transaxle.

When in the D (Overdrive) position, the transaxle works the same way as when in D (Drive). However, when your vehicle cruises at a constant speed for any length of time, the transaxle shifts into a fourth gear (Overdrive) and allows the torque converter to lock-up.

Overdrive will increase your fuel economy when you travel at cruising speeds.

PRNDD1

PRZNDT

Overdrive may not be appropriate for certain terrains. If the transaxle shifts back and forth between third and fourth gears while you are driving on hilly roads, or if your vehicle requires additional power for climbing hills, shift into D (Drive).

Driving

When to use D (Drive)

The D (Drive) position eliminates the needless shifting back and forth between third and fourth gears that your vehicle may do when driving on hilly terrain. It also gives more engine braking than overdrive to slow your vehicle on downgrades.

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P R N Θ D T

1 (First)

Use 1 (First) for when added engine braking is desired when descending steep hills.

The automatic transaxle will shift to the proper gear to ascend any grade without any need to shift to 1 (First).

Mercury Sable (2002) - (First) - 1

P R N Θ D T

Do not go faster than 61 km/h (38 mph) when in this gear. You can upshift from 1 (First) to overdrive at any time.

Driving

When parking, do not use the gearshift in place of the parking brake. Always set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in Park (P). Turn off the ignition whenever you leave your vehicle. Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running. If you do not take these precautions, your vehicle may move unexpectedly and injure someone.

DRIVING THROUGH WATER

Do not drive quickly through standing water, especially if the depth is unknown. Traction or brake capability may be limited and if the ignition system gets wet, your engine may stall. Water may also enter your engine's air intake and severely damage your engine.

If driving through deep or standing water is unavoidable, proceed very slowly. Never drive through water that is higher than the bottom of the hubs (for trucks) or the bottom of the wheel rims (for cars).

Once through the water, always try the brakes. Wet brakes do not stop the vehicle as effectively as dry brakes. Drying can be improved by moving your vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake pedal.

Driving through deep water where the transmission vent tube is submerged may allow water into the transmission and cause internal transmission damage.

VEHICLE LOADING

Before loading a vehicle, familiarize yourself with the following terms:

  • Base Curb Weight: Weight of the vehicle including any standard equipment, fluids, lubricants, etc. It does not include occupants or aftermarket equipment.
  • Payload: Combined maximum allowable weight of cargo, occupants and optional equipment. The payload equals the gross vehicle weight rating minus base curb weight.
  • GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight): Base curb weight plus payload weight. The GVW is not a limit or a specification.
  • GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): Maximum permissible total weight of the base vehicle, occupants, optional equipment and cargo. The GVWR is specific to each vehicle and is listed on the Safety Certification Label on the driver's door pillar.

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  • GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating): Carrying capacity for each axle system. The GAWR is specific to each vehicle and is listed on the Safety Certification Label on the driver's door pillar.
  • GCW (Gross Combined Weight): The combined weight of the towing vehicle (including occupants and cargo) and the loaded trailer.
  • GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating): Maximum permissible combined weight of towing vehicle (including occupants and cargo) and the loaded trailer
  • Maximum Trailer Weight Rating: Maximum weight of a trailer the vehicle is permitted to tow. The maximum trailer weight rating is determined by subtracting the vehicle curb weight for each engine/transmission combination, any required option weight for trailer towing and the weight of the driver from the GCWR for the towing vehicle.
  • Maximum Trailer Weight: Maximum weight of a trailer the loaded vehicle (including occupants and cargo) is permitted to tow. It is determined by subtracting the weight of the loaded trailer towing vehicle from the GCWR for the towing vehicle.
  • Trailer Weight Range: Specified weight range that the trailer must fall within that ranges from zero to the maximum trailer weight rating.

Remember to figure in the tongue load of your loaded trailer when figuring the total weight.

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Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the certification label.

Do not use replacement tires with lower load carrying capacities than the originals because they may lower the vehicle's GVWR and GAWR limitations. Replacement tires with a higher limit than the originals do not increase the GVWR and GAWR limitations.

The Safety Certification Label, found on the driver's door pillar, lists several important vehicle weight rating limitations. Before adding any additional equipment, refer to these limitations. If you are adding weight to the front of your vehicle, (potentially including weight added to the cab), the weight added should not exceed the front axle reserve capacity (FARC). Additional frontal weight may be added to the front axle reserve capacity provided you limit your payload in other ways (i.e. restrict the number of occupants or amount of cargo carried).

Driving

Always ensure that the weight of occupants, cargo and equipment being carried is within the weight limitations that have been established for your vehicle including both gross vehicle weight and front and rear gross axle weight rating limits. Under no circumstance should these limitations be exceeded.

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Exceeding any vehicle weight rating limitation could result in serious damage to the vehicle and/or personal injury.

TRAILER TOWING

Your vehicle is classified as a light duty towing vehicle. The amount of weight you can safely tow depends on the type of engine you have in your vehicle. Your vehicle does not come from the factory fully equipped to tow. No towing packages are available through Ford or Mercury/Lincoln dealers. Do not tow a trailer until your vehicle has been driven at least 800 km (500 miles). If towing with a station wagon, inflate the rear tires to 35 psi.

Towing a trailer places an additional load on your vehicle's engine, transaxle, brakes, tires and suspension. Inspect these components carefully after towing.

In order to identify your vehicle's engine, refer to Identifying components in the engine compartment in the Maintenance and specifications chapter.

The amount of weight that you can tow depends on the type of engine in your vehicle. See the following charts:

3.0L 2-Valve Vulcan Engine
Model Passenger Load - #/kg (lbs.)Luggage Load - kg (lbs.)Max Trailer Wt.-kg (lbs.)
Sedan 5/340(750) 0 365 (800)
4/270 (600) 70 (150)365 (800)
2/135 (300) 70 (150)500 (1 100)
2/135 (300) 0 565 (1 250)
Wagon 4/270(600) 0 365 (800)
2/135 (300) 70 (150)430 (950)
2/135 (300) 0 500 (1 100)

The above chart is based on the specified vehicle at a maximum GCW (Vehicle weight + Trailer weight) equal to 2 245 kg (4 950 lbs.).

Driving

3.0L 4-Valve Duratec Engine
Model Passenger Load - #/kg (lbs.)Luggage Load - kg (lbs.)Max Trailer Wt.-kg (lbs.)
Sedan 5/340(750) 0 590 (1 300)
2/135 (300) 70 (150)725 (1 600)
2/135 (300) 0 795 (1 750)
Wagon 5/340(750) 70 (150) 455(1 000)
2/135 (300) 70 (150)660 (1 450)
2/135 (300) 0 725 (1 600)

The above chart is based on the specified vehicle at a maximum GCW (Vehicle weight + Trailer weight) equal to 2 470 kg (5 450 lbs.).

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Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the certification label.

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Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended gross trailer weight exceeds the limit of the vehicle and could result in the damage, transaxle damage, structural damage, loss of control, personal injury.

Preparing to tow

Use the proper equipment for towing a trailer, and make sure it is properly attached to your vehicle. See your dealer or a reliable trailer dealer if you require assistance.

Hitches

Do not use hitches that clamp onto the vehicle bumper. Use a load carrying hitch. You must distribute the load in your trailer so that 10% of the total weight of the trailer is on the tongue.

Safety chains

Always connect the trailer's safety chains to the frame or hook retainers of the vehicle hitch. To connect the trailer's safety chains, cross the chains under the trailer tongue and allow slack for turning corners.

If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions that the rental agency gives to you.

Do not attach safety chains to the bumper.

Driving

Trailer brakes

Electric brakes and manual, automatic or surge-type trailer brakes are safe if installed properly and adjusted to the manufacturer's specifications. The trailer brakes must meet local and Federal regulations.

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Do not connect a trailer's hydraulic brake system directly to your vehicle's brake system. Your vehicle may not have enough charging power and your chances of having a collision greatly increase.

The braking system of the tow vehicle is rated for operation at the GVWR not GCWR.

Trailer lamps

Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure your trailer lamps conform to local and Federal regulations. See your dealer or trailer rental agency for proper instructions and equipment for hooking up trailer lamps.

Driving while you tow

When towing a trailer:

  • Ensure that you turn off your speed control. The speed control may shut off automatically when you are towing on long, steep grades.
  • Consult your local motor vehicle speed regulations for towing a trailer.
  • Use D (Drive) or a lower gear when towing up or down steep hills. This will eliminate excessive downshifting and upshifting for optimum fuel economy and transaxle cooling.
  • Anticipate stops and brake gradually.

Servicing after towing

If you tow a trailer for long distances, your vehicle will require more frequent service intervals. Refer to your scheduled maintenance guide for more information.

Trailer towing tips

- Practice turning, stopping and backing up before starting on a trip to get the feel of the vehicle trailer combination. When turning, make wider turns so the trailer wheels will clear curbs and other obstacles.

Driving

  • Allow more distance for stopping with a trailer attached.
  • If you are driving down a long or steep hill, shift to a lower gear. Do not apply the brakes continuously, as they may overheat and become less effective.
  • The trailer tongue weight should be 10–15% of the loaded trailer weight.
  • After you have traveled 80 km (50 miles), thoroughly check your hitch, electrical connections and trailer wheel lug nuts.
  • When stopped in traffic for long periods of time in hot weather, place the gearshift in P (Park) and increase idle speed. This aids engine cooling and air conditioner efficiency.
  • Vehicles with trailers should not be parked on a grade. If you must park on a grade, place wheel chocks under the trailer's wheels.

RECREATIONAL TOWING

Follow these guidelines for your specific powertrain combination to tow your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground (such as behind a recreational vehicle).

These guidelines are designed to ensure that your transmission is not damaged due to insufficient lubrication.

ALL FRONT WHEEL DRIVE (FWD) VEHICLES

An example of recreational towing is towing your vehicle behind a motorhome. The following recreational towing guidelines are designed to ensure that your transmission is not damaged. It is not recommended to tow front wheel drive vehicles with the front drive wheels on the ground. It is recommended to tow your vehicle with the drive wheels on a dolly or two wheel car hauling trailer.

In case of a roadside emergency with a disabled vehicle (without access to wheel dollies, car hauling trailer or flatbed transport vehicle) your vehicle can be flat towed (all wheels on the ground) under the following conditions:

  • Place the transmission in N (Neutral).
    • Maximum speed is 56 km/h (35 mph).
    • Maximum distance is 80 km (50 miles).

Roadside Emergencies

GETTING ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE

To fully assist you should you have a vehicle concern, Ford Motor Company offers a complimentary roadside assistance program. This program is separate from the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. The service is available:

• 24-hours, seven days a week
- for the New Vehicle Limited Warranty period of three years or 60 000 km (36 000 miles), whichever occurs first on Ford and Mercury vehicles, and four years or 80 000 km (50 000 miles) on Lincoln vehicles*.

Roadside assistance will cover:

  • changing a flat tire
  • jump-starts
  • lock-out assistance
  • limited fuel delivery*
  • towing of your disabled vehicle to the nearest Ford Motor Company dealership, or your selling dealer if within 25 kms (15.5 miles) of the nearest Ford Motor Company dealership (one tow per disablement). Even non-warranty related tows, like accidents or getting stuck in the mud or snow, are covered (some exclusions apply, such as impound towing or repossession).

* Canadian customers refer to your Owner Information Guide for exact fuel amounts.

USING ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE

Complete the roadside assistance identification card and place it in your wallet for quick reference. In the United States, this card is found in the Owner Guide portfolio in the glove compartment in Ford vehicles and is mailed to you if you own a Mercury or Lincoln. In Canada, the card is found in the Roadside Assistance book in the glove compartment.

U.S. Ford or Mercury vehicle customers who require roadside assistance, call 1-800-241-3673; Lincoln vehicle customers call 1-800-521-4140.

Canadian customers who require roadside assistance, call 1-800-665-2006.

Roadside Emergencies

If you need to arrange roadside assistance for yourself, Ford Motor Company will reimburse a reasonable amount. To obtain reimbursement information, U.S. Ford or Mercury vehicles customers call 1-800-241-3673; Lincoln vehicle customers call 1-800-521-4140.

Canadian customers who need to obtain reimbursement information, call 1-800-665-2006.

ROADSIDE COVERAGE BEYOND BASIC WARRANTY

In the United States, you may purchase additional roadside assistance coverage beyond this period through the Ford Auto Club by contacting your Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealer.

Similarly in Canada, for uninterrupted Roadside Assistance coverage, you may purchase extended coverage prior to your Basic Warranty's Roadside Assistance expiring. For more information and enrollment, contact 1-877-294-2582 or visit our website at www.ford.ca.

HAZARD FLASHER

Use only in an emergency to warn traffic of vehicle breakdown, approaching danger, etc. The hazard flashers can be operated when the ignition is off.

  • The hazard lights control is located on top of the steering column.
  • Depress hazard lights control to activate all hazard flashers simultaneously.
  • Depress control again to turn the flashers off.

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natural_image Simple line drawing of a mechanical component with a downward arrow and triangular base (no text or symbols)

FUEL PUMP SHUT-OFF SWITCH FUEL RESET

The fuel pump shut-off switch is a device intended to stop the electric fuel pump when your vehicle has been involved in a substantial jolt.

After a collision, if the engine cranks but does not start, the fuel pump shut-off switch may have been activated.

Roadside Emergencies

If your vehicle is a sedan, the fuel pump shut-off switch is located on the right side of the trunk behind the trunk liner.

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natural_image Diagram of a vehicle's steering wheel and dashboard with a blue arrow pointing to the steering wheel (no text or symbols present)

If your vehicle is a wagon, the fuel pump shut-off switch is located behind the service panel on the right side of the cargo area.

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natural_image Diagram of a car interior showing the door, intake tray, and air vent (no text or symbols)

Use the following procedure to reset the fuel pump shut-off switch.

  1. Turn the ignition to the OFF position.
  2. Check the fuel system for leaks.
  3. If no fuel leak is apparent, reset the fuel pump shut-off switch by pushing in on the reset button.
  4. Turn the ignition to the ON position. Pause for a few seconds and return the key to the OFF position.
  5. Make a further check for leaks in the fuel system.

Roadside Emergencies

FUSES AND RELAYS

Fuses

If electrical components in the vehicle are not working, a fuse may have blown. Blown fuses are identified by a broken wire within the fuse. Check the appropriate fuses before replacing any electrical components.

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Note: Always replace a fuse with one that has the specified amperage rating. Using a fuse with a higher amperage rating can cause severe wire damage and could start a fire.

Standard fuse amperage rating and color

COLOR
Fuse ratingMini fusesStandard fusesMaxi fusesCartridge Maxi fusesFuse link cartridge
2A Grey — —
3A Violet Violet — —
4A Pink Pink — —
5A Tan Tan — —
7.5A Brown Brown — —
10ARedRed— — —
15A Blue Blue — —
20AYellowYellowYellowBlueBlue
25ANaturalNatural— — —
30AGreenGreenGreen Pink Pink
40A —— Amber Green Green
50A —— Red Red Red
60A —— Blue —Yellow
70A —— Tan — Brown
80A —— Natural— Black

Roadside Emergencies

Passenger compartment fuse panel

The fuse panel is located below and to the left of the steering wheel by the brake pedal. Remove the panel cover to access the fuses.

To remove a fuse use the fuse puller tool provided on the fuse panel cover.

SEE OWNERS MANUAL CONSULTER LA GUIDE 2 4 6 8 10 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 PULL TAB TO RELEASE

The fuses are coded as follows.

Fuse/relay locationFuse amp ratingPassenger compartment fuse panel description
1 — Accessory delay relay
2 — Driver one touch down relay
3 — Blower motor relay
4 — Flasher relay
5 — Not used
6 — Not used
7 40A Rear defrost grid feed
8 40A Blower motor
9 — Rear defrost relay
10 30A Circuit breakerPower seats, Delayedaccessory, Adjustable pedals
11 15A Integrated control panel (ICP), Rearwasher wiper control, Front washer, Cell phone, Passenger switch illumination,GEM, Rear wiper motor

Roadside Emergencies

Fuse/relay locationFuse amp ratingPassenger compartment fuse panel description
12 10AHeated mirrorsRear defrost switch
13 20APower point
14 — Not used
15 30AFront wiper motor
16 15AFlasher and GEMM power, Integrated control Panel (ICP) power, RCC memory, Cluster
17 15AStop Lamp, Spodcd control deactivating switch
18 — Not used
19 — Not used
20 — Not used
21 — Not used
22 20ADeck lid releasesolenoid, lock/unlock relays
23 10AAir bag modulePATS transceiver
24 15AFoglamps and rear foglamps, Transit relay
25 2APCM relay, Fuel pump relay
26 10AMirrors, Power antenna, Pulse stretcher Module, Deck lid lamp, Battery saver
27 10AGauges and warning lamps, Integrated control panel (ICP), FFV sender, GEM
28 10ABlower motor relay coil, EATC logic, Puddle lamps
29 15AAutolamps relay, Fog lamp relay, Fog lamp relay coil, Park lamps, PWM headlamp switch
30 15AHorns and horn switch, OBD II connector
31 — Not used

Roadside Emergencies

Fuse/relay locationFuse amp ratingPassenger compartment fuse panel description
32 10A ABS, DRL relaycoil, Speed control actuator, Traction control switch, AC heater selector switch, Blend door actuator, Brake shift interlock, Rear defroster relay coil
33 — Not used
34 — Not used
35 — Not used
36 15A Turn signals, Back-up lamps
37 15A Transmission position switch
38 5A GEM park neutral switch
39 — Not used
40 — Not used
41 — Not used
42 — Not used

Power distribution box

The power distribution box is located in the engine compartment. The power distribution box contains high-current fuses that protect your vehicle's main electrical systems from overloads.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Power distribution box - 1

natural_image Technical line drawing of a mechanical assembly with blue components and mounting brackets (no text or symbols)

Roadside Emergencies

Mercury Sable (2002) - Roadside Emergencies - 1

Always disconnect the battery before servicing high current fuses.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Roadside Emergencies - 2

To reduce risk of electrical shock, always replace the cover to the Power Distribution Box before reconnecting the battery or ing fluid reservoirs.

If the battery has been disconnected and reconnected, refer to the Battery section of the Maintenance and specifications chapter.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 39 40 41 42 43

The high-current fuses are coded as follows.

Fuse/relay locationFuse amp ratingPower distribution box description
1 60A** Fuse junction panel
2 30A** PCM relay
3 60A** Fuse junction panel
4 — Not used
5 — Not used
6 — Not used
7 40A** Starter relay, Ignition switch
8 20A** Transit relay (export only), Rear foglamps
9 40A** Cooling fan relays
10 — Not used
11 — Not used

Roadside Emergencies

Fuse/relay locationFuse amp ratingPower distribution box description
12 — Not used
13 40A** Anti-lock brake module pump feed
14 — Not used
15 20A* Anti-lock brake module valve solenoid
16 20A* Fuel pump relay
17 20A* Cell port
18 20A* Cigar lighter
19 15A* Right headlamp
20 — Not used
21 15A* Left headlamp
22 10A* A/C clutch relay, PCM keep alive power
23 — Starter motor relay
24 — Fan relay
25 — Wiper speed relay
26 10A* Alternator
27 5A* Rear control unit, Antenna
28 15A* HEGO sensor transmission shift solenoid, Canister vent, A/C clutch relay
29 — Wiper park relay
30 — Fuel pump relay
31 — PCM power relay
32 — Fan relay
33 — A/C clutch relay
* Mini Fuses ** Maxi Fuses

Relays

Relays are located in the power distribution box and should be replaced by qualified technicians.

Roadside Emergencies

CHANGING THE TIRES

If you get a flat tire while driving, do not apply the brake heavily. Instead, gradually decrease your speed. Hold the steering wheel firmly and slowly move to a safe place on the side of the road.

Temporary spare tire information

The temporary spare tire for your vehicle is labeled as such. It is smaller than a regular tire and is designed for emergency use only.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Temporary spare tire information - 1

If you use the temporary spare tire continuously or do not follow these precautions, the tire could fail, causing you to lose control vehicle, possibly injuring yourself or others.

When driving with the temporary spare tire do not:

  • use more than one temporary spare tire at a time
  • exceed 80 km/h (50 mph) or drive further than 3 200 km (2 000 miles) total under any circumstances
  • load the vehicle beyond maximum vehicle load rating listed on the Safety Compliance Label
  • tow a trailer
  • use tire chains
  • drive through an automatic car wash, because of the vehicle's reduced ground clearance
  • try to repair the temporary spare tire or remove it from its wheel
  • use the wheel for any other type of vehicle

Use of a temporary spare tire at any one wheel location can lead to impairment of the following:

- handling, stability and braking performance

- comfort and noise

- ground clearance and parking at curbs

- Winter driving capability

Roadside Emergencies

Tire change procedure

  1. Park on a level surface, activate hazard flashers and set parking brake.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Tire change procedure - 1

When one of the front wheels is off the ground, the transaxle alone will not prevent the vehicle from moving or slipping off the even if the vehicle is in P (Park).

Mercury Sable (2002) - Tire change procedure - 2

To prevent the vehicle from moving when you change a tire, be sure the parking brake is set, then block (in both directions) that is diagonally opposite (other side and end of the vehicle) to be being changed.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Tire change procedure - 3

If the vehicle slips off the jack, you or someone else could be seriously injured.

  1. Place gearshift lever in P (Park), turn engine OFF, block the diagonally opposite wheel, then remove the spare tire, jack and lug wrench.

- In the sedan, these are located in the trunk cargo area storage compartment.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Tire change procedure - 4

natural_image Diagram of a mechanical linkage or suspension system with three wheels and a terminal block (no text or symbols)

Mercury Sable (2002) - Tire change procedure - 5

natural_image Technical line drawing of a mechanical component with concentric rings and central hub (no text or symbols)

Roadside Emergencies

- In the wagon, they are stored in the left side rear trim panel for the temporary spare and in the floor cargo area storage compartment for the full size spare.

  1. If equipped with a wheel cover that's bolted on, loosen the five plastic nuts with the lug nut wrench.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Roadside Emergencies - 1

natural_image Technical line drawing of a car tire assembly with visible components and mounting brackets (no text or labels)

Mercury Sable (2002) - Roadside Emergencies - 2

natural_image Circular diagram with five blue-capped rings and directional arrows, no text or symbols present
  1. Remove the center ornament or wheel cover from the wheel with the tapered end of the wheel lug nut wrench that came with your vehicle. Insert and twist the handle, then pry against the wheel.

  2. Loosen each wheel lug nut one-half turn counterclockwise but do not remove them until the wheel is raised off the ground.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Roadside Emergencies - 3

natural_image Circular diagram with hexagonal symbols and directional arrows, no text or labels present

Roadside Emergencies

  1. Put the jack in the jack notch next to the door of the tire you are changing. Turn the jack handle clockwise until the wheel is completely off the ground.

  2. Remove the lug nuts with the lug nut wrench.

  3. Replace the flat tire with the spare tire, making sure the valve stem is facing outward. Reinstall lug nuts until the wheel is snug against the hub. Do not fully tighten the lug nuts until the wheel has been lowered.

  4. Lower the wheel by turning the jack handle counterclockwise.

  5. Remove the jack and fully tighten the lug nuts in the order shown.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Roadside Emergencies - 1

natural_image Technical line drawing of a mechanical assembly with a blue clamp and wheel (no text or symbols)

Mercury Sable (2002) - Roadside Emergencies - 2

flowchart
graph TD
    1 --> 2
    2 --> 3
    3 --> 4
    4 --> 5
    5 --> 1
  1. Return the flat tire, jack and lug wrench to their proper storage locations. Make sure the jack is fastened so it does not rattle when you drive.

  2. Unblock the wheels.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Roadside Emergencies - 3

natural_image Technical line drawing of a mechanical assembly with a central rotating component and hands holding parts (no text or symbols)

Roadside Emergencies

The gases around the battery can explode if exposed to flames, sparks, or lit cigarettes. An explosion could result in injury or damage.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Roadside Emergencies - 1

Batteries contain sulfuric acid which can burn skin, eyes, and clothing, if contacted.

Do not attempt to push-start your vehicle. Automatic transmissions do not have push-start capability; also, the catalytic converter may become damaged.

Preparing your vehicle

When the battery is disconnected or a new battery is installed, the transmission must relearn its adaptive strategy. As a result of this, the transmission may shift firmly. This operation is considered normal and will not affect function or durability of the transmission. Over time, the adaptive learning process will fully update transmission operation to its optimum shift feel.

  1. Use only a 12-volt supply to start your vehicle.

  2. Do not disconnect the battery of the disabled vehicle as this could damage the vehicle's electrical system.

  3. Park the booster vehicle close to the hood of the disabled vehicle making sure the two vehicles do not touch. Set the parking brake on both vehicles and stay clear of the engine cooling fan and other moving parts.

  4. Check all battery terminals and remove any excessive corrosion before you attach the battery cables. Ensure that vent caps are tight and level.

  5. Turn the heater fan on in both vehicles to protect any electrical surges. Turn all other accessories off.

Roadside Emergencies

Connecting the jumper cables

Diagram showing two battery charging scenarios with positive and negative charge indicators, illustrating electric field lines.

  1. Connect the positive (+) booster cable to the positive (+) terminal of the discharged battery.

Note: In the illustrations, lightning bolts are used to designate the assisting (boosting) battery.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Connecting the jumper cables - 2

natural_image Diagram of two cylindrical batteries connected in series, showing charge distribution (no text or symbols)
  1. Connect the other end of the positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the assisting battery.

Roadside Emergencies

Diagram showing two connected cylindrical tanks with positive charge indicators and directional arrows indicating flow or movement.

  1. Connect the negative (-) cable to the negative (-) terminal of the assisting battery.

Diagram showing two cylindrical conductors connected by a battery, with arrows indicating current direction and polarity.

  1. Make the final connection of the negative (-) cable. Make the connection to an exposed metal part of the stalled vehicle's engine, away from the battery and the carburetor/fuel injection system. Do not use fuel lines, engine rocker covers or the intake manifold as grounding points.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Roadside Emergencies - 3

Do not connect the end of the second cable to the negative (-) terminal of the battery to be jumped. A spark may cause an ion of the gases that surround the battery.

  1. Ensure that the cables are clear of fan blades, belts, moving parts of both engines, or any fuel delivery system parts.

Roadside Emergencies

Jump starting

  1. Start the engine of the booster vehicle and run the engine at moderately increased speed.
  2. Start the engine of the disabled vehicle.
  3. Once the disabled vehicle has been started, run both engines for an additional three minutes before disconnecting the jumper cables.

Removing the jumper cables

Diagram showing two cylindrical objects with positive charges and lightning bolts, illustrating electrical or mechanical connections.

Remove the jumper cables in the reverse order that they were connected.

  1. Remove the jumper cable from the ground metal surface.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Remove the jumper cables in the reverse order that they were connected. - 1

natural_image Diagram of two cylindrical objects with positive charges and lightning bolts, no text or symbols present
  1. Remove the jumper cable on the negative (-) connection of the booster vehicle's battery.

Roadside Emergencies

Diagram showing two connected cylindrical devices with positive and negative charge indicators, illustrating electrical or mechanical connections.

  1. Remove the jumper cable from the positive (+) terminal of the booster vehicle's battery.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Roadside Emergencies - 2

natural_image Diagram showing two battery cells connected by a wire, with arrows indicating direction of charging (no text or symbols present)
  1. Remove the jumper cable from the positive (+) terminal of the disabled vehicle's battery.

After the disabled vehicle has been started and the jumper cables removed, allow it to idle for several minutes so the engine computer can relearn its idle conditions.

Roadside Emergencies

WRECKER TOWING

Mercury Sable (2002) - WRECKER TOWING - 1

Mercury Sable (2002) - WRECKER TOWING - 2

natural_image Line drawings of three types of flatbed utility trucks with different structural designs (no text or symbols)

If you need to have your vehicle towed, contact a professional towing service or, if you are a member, your roadside assistance center.

It is recommended that your vehicle be towed with a wheel lift or flatbed equipment. Do not tow with a slingbelt. Ford Motor Company has not approved a slingbelt towing procedure.

If your vehicle is to be towed from the rear using wheel lift equipment, it is recommended that the front wheels (drive wheels) be placed on a dolly to prevent damage to the transaxle.

If your vehicle must be towed with the drive wheels on the ground:

  • Place the transaxle in N (Neutral).
  • DO NOT exceed the distance of 80 km (50 miles).
    • DO NOT exceed the speed of 56 km/h (35 mph).

If the vehicle is towed by other means or incorrectly, vehicle damage may occur.

Ford Motor Company provides a towing manual for all authorized tow truck operators. Have your tow truck operator refer to this manual for proper hook-up and towing procedures for your vehicle.

Customer Assistance

GETTING THE SERVICES YOU NEED

At home

Ford Motor Company and Ford of Canada have authorized dealerships to service your vehicle. It is preferred that you return to the Ford dealer where your vehicle was purchased when warranty repairs are needed. However, you may also take your vehicle to another Ford Motor Company or Ford of Canada dealership authorized for warranty repairs. Certain warranty repairs require special training though, so not all dealers are authorized to perform all warranty repairs. That means that depending on the warranty repair needed, the vehicle may need to be taken to another dealer. If a particular dealership can not assist you, then contact the Customer Relationship Center.

If you have questions or concerns, or are unsatisfied with the service you are receiving, follow these steps:

  1. Contact your Sales Representative or Service Advisor at your selling/servicing dealership.
  2. If your inquiry or concern remains unresolved, contact the Sales Manager or Service Manager at the dealership.
  3. If the inquiry or concern cannot be resolved at the dealership level, please contact the Ford Customer Relationship Center.

Away from home

If you own a Ford or Mercury vehicle and are away from home when your vehicle needs service, or if you need more help than the dealership could provide, after following the steps described above, contact the Ford Customer Relationship Center to find an authorized dealership to help you.

In the United States:

Ford Motor Company

Customer Relationship Center

16800 Executive Plaza Drive

P.O. Box 6248

Dearborn, Michigan 48121

1-800-392-3673 (FORD)

(TDD for the hearing impaired: 1-800-232-5952)

Customer Assistance

In Canada:

Customer Relationship Centre

Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited

P.O. Box 2000

Oakville, Ontario L6J 5E4

1-800-565-3673 (FORD)

If you own a Lincoln vehicle and are away from home when your vehicle needs service, or if you need more help than the dealership could provide, after following the steps described above, contact the Ford Customer Relationship Center to find an authorized dealership to help you.

In the United States:

Ford Motor Company

Customer Relationship Center

16800 Executive Plaza Drive

P.O. Box 6248

Dearborn, Michigan 48121

1-800-521-4140

(TDD for the hearing impaired: 1-800-232-5952)

In Canada:

Customer Relationship Centre

Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited

P.O. Box 2000

Oakville, Ontario L6J 5E4

1-800-565-3673 (FORD)

In order to help you service your Ford or Lincoln Mercury vehicle, please have the following information available when contacting a Customer Relationship Center:

  • Your telephone number (home and business).
  • The name of the dealer and the city where the dealership is located.
    • The year and make of your vehicle.
    • The date of vehicle purchase.
    • The current odometer reading.
  • The vehicle identification number (VIN).

If you still have a complaint involving a warranty dispute, you may wish to contact the Dispute Settlement Board (U.S.).

Customer Assistance

In some states (in the U.S.) you must directly notify Ford in writing before pursuing remedies under your state's warranty laws. Ford is also allowed a final repair attempt in some states.

In the United States, a warranty dispute must be submitted to the Dispute Settlement Board before taking action under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, or to the extent allowed by state law, 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 are independent of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act or state replacement or repurchase laws.

FORD EXTENDED SERVICE PLAN

You can get more protection for your new car or light truck by purchasing Ford Extended Service Plan (Ford ESP) coverage. Ford ESP is an optional service contract which is backed by Ford Motor Company or Ford Motor Service Company (in the U.S.) and Ford of Canada (in Canada). It provides the following:

  • Benefits during the warranty period depending on the plan you purchase (such as: reimbursement for rentals; coverage for certain maintenance and wear items).
  • Protection against covered repair costs after your Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty expires.

You may purchase Ford ESP from any participating Ford and Lincoln Mercury and Ford of Canada dealer. There are several plans available in various time, distance and deductible combinations which can be tailored to fit your own driving needs. Ford ESP also offers reimbursement benefits for towing and rental coverage.

When you buy Ford ESP, you receive Peace-of-Mind protection throughout the United States and Canada, provided by a network of more than 5,000 participating Ford or Lincoln Mercury and Ford of Canada dealers.

If you did not take advantage of the Ford Extended Service Plan at the time of purchasing your vehicle, you may still be eligible. Please contact your dealer for further information. Since this information is subject to change, please ask your dealer for complete details about Ford Extended Service Plan coverage options, or visit the Ford ESP website at www.ford-esp.com.

Customer Assistance

THE DISPUTE SETTLEMENT BOARD (U.S. ONLY)

The Dispute Settlement Board is:

  • an independent, third-party arbitration program for warranty disputes
    • available free to owners and lessees of qualifying Ford Motor Company vehicles

The Dispute Settlement Board may not be available in all states. Ford Motor Company reserves the right to change eligibility limitations, modify procedures and/or to discontinue this service without notice and without incurring obligations per applicable state law.

What kinds of cases does the Board review?

Unresolved warranty repair concerns or vehicle performance concerns as on Ford and Lincoln Mercury cars and Ford and Lincoln Mercury light trucks which are within the terms of any applicable written new vehicle warranty are eligible for review, except those involving:

  • a non-Ford product
  • a non-Ford dealership
  • sales disputes between customer and dealer except those associated with warranty repairs or concerns with the vehicle's performance as designed
  • a request for reimbursement of consequential expenses unless a service or product concern is being reviewed

- items not covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty (including maintenance and wear items)

- alleged personal injury/property damage claims

• cases currently in litigation

- vehicles not used primarily for family, personal or household purposes (except in states where the Dispute Settlement Board is required to review commercial vehicles)

• vehicles with non-U.S. warranties

Concerns are ineligible for review if the New Vehicle Limited Warranty has expired at receipt of your application and, in certain states eligibility is dependent upon the customer's possession of the vehicle.

Eligibility may differ according to state law. For example, see the unique brochures for California, West Virginia, Georgia and Wisconsin purchasers/lessees.

Customer Assistance

Board membership

The Board consists of:

• three consumer representatives
- a Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealership representative

Consumer candidates for Board membership are recruited and trained by an independent consulting firm. The dealership Board member is chosen from Ford and Lincoln Mercury dealership management, recognized for their business leadership qualities.

What the Board needs

To have your case reviewed you must complete the application in the DSB brochure and mail it to the address provided on the application form. Some states will require you to use certified mail, with return receipt requested.

Your application is reviewed and, if it is determined to be eligible, you will receive an acknowledgment indicating:

  • The file number assigned to your application.
  • The toll-free phone number of the DSB's independent administrator.

Your dealership and a Ford Motor Company representative will then be asked to submit statements.

To properly review your case, the Board needs the following information:

  • Legible copies of all documents and maintenance or repair orders relevant to the case.
  • The year, make, model, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) listed on your vehicle ownership license.
  • The date of repair(s) and mileage at the time of occurrence(s).
  • The current mileage.
  • The name of the dealer(s) who sold or serviced the vehicle.
  • A brief description of your unresolved concern.
  • A brief summary of the action taken by the dealer(s) and Ford Motor Company.
  • The names (if known) of all the people you contacted at the dealership(s).
  • A description of the action you expect to resolve your concern.

Customer Assistance

You will receive a letter of explanation if your application does not qualify for Board review.

Oral presentations

If you would like to make an oral presentation, indicate YES to question 6 on the application. While it is your right to make an oral presentation before the Board, this is not a requirement and the Board will decide the case whether or not an oral presentation is made. An oral presentation may be requested by the Board as well.

Making a decision

Board members review all available information related to each complaint, including oral presentations, and arrive at a fair and impartial decision. Board review may be terminated at any time by either party.

Every effort is made to decide the case within 40 days of the date that all requested information is received by the Board. Since the Board generally meets once a month, it may take longer for the Board to consider some cases.

After a case is reviewed, the Board mails you a decision letter and a form on which to accept or reject the Board's decision. The decisions of the Board are binding on Ford (and, in some cases, on the dealer) but not on consumers who are free to pursue other remedies available to them under state or federal law.

To request a DSB Brochure/Application

For a brochure/application, speak to your dealer or write/call to the Board at the following address/phone number:

Dispute Settlement Board

P.O. Box 5120

Southfield, MI 48086-5120

1-800-428-3718

You may also contact the North American Customer Relationship Center at 1-800-392-3673 (Ford), TDD for the hearing impaired: 1-800-232-5952 or by writing to the Center at the following address:

Ford Motor Company

Customer Relationship Center

16800 Executive Plaza Drive

P.O. Box 6248

Dearborn, Michigan 48121

Customer Assistance

UTILIZING THE MEDIATION/ARBITRATION PROGRAM (CANADA ONLY)

In those cases where you continue to feel that the efforts by Ford and the dealer to resolve a factory-related vehicle service concern have been unsatisfactory, Ford of Canada participates in an impartial third party mediation/arbitration program administered by the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP).

The CAMVAP program is a straight-forward and relatively speedy alternative to resolve a disagreement when all other efforts to produce a settlement have failed. This procedure is without cost to you and is designed to eliminate the need for lengthy and expensive legal proceedings.

In the CAMVAP program, impartial third-party arbitrators conduct hearings at mutually convenient times and places in an informal environment. These impartial arbitrators review the positions of the parties, make decisions and, when appropriate, render awards to resolve disputes. CAMVAP decisions are fast, fair, and final; the arbitrator's award is binding both to you and Ford of Canada.

CAMVAP services are available in all territories and provinces. For more information, without charge or obligation, call your CAMVAP Provincial Administrator directly at 1-800-207-0685.

GETTING ASSISTANCE OUTSIDE THE U.S. AND CANADA

Before exporting your vehicle to a foreign country, contact the appropriate foreign embassy or consulate. These officials can inform you of local vehicle registration regulations and where to find unleaded fuel.

If you cannot find unleaded fuel or can only get fuel with an anti-knock index lower than is recommended for your vehicle, contact a district or owner relations/customer relationship office.

The use of leaded fuel in your vehicle without proper conversion may damage the effectiveness of your emission control system and may cause engine knocking or serious engine damage. Ford Motor Company/Ford of Canada is not responsible for any damage caused by use of improper fuel.

In the United States, using leaded fuel may also result in difficulty importing your vehicle back into the U.S.

Customer Assistance

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 cannot help you, write or call:

FORD MOTOR COMPANY WORLDWIDE DIRECT MARKET OPERATIONS

1555 Fairlane Drive Fairlane Business Park #3 Allen Park, Michigan 48101 U.S.A.

Telephone: (313) 594-4857 FAX: (313) 390-0804

If you are in another foreign country, contact the nearest Ford dealership. If the dealership employees cannot help you, they can direct you to the nearest Ford affiliate office.

If you buy your vehicle in North America and then relocate outside of the U.S. or Canada, register your vehicle identification number (VIN) and new address with Ford Motor Company Worldwide Direct Market Operations.

ORDERING ADDITIONAL OWNER'S LITERATURE

To order the publications in this portfolio, contact Helm, Incorporated at:

HELM, INCORPORATED

P.O. Box 07150 Detroit, Michigan 48207

Or call:

For a free publication catalog, order toll free: 1-800-782-4356

Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. EST

(Items in this catalog may be purchased by credit card holders only.)

Obtaining a French owner's guide

French Owner's 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.

IN CALIFORNIA (U.S. ONLY)

California Civil Code Section 1793.2(d) requires that, if a manufacturer or its representative is unable to repair a motor vehicle to conform to the vehicle's applicable express warranty after a reasonable number of

Customer Assistance

attempts, the manufacturer shall be required to either replace the vehicle with one substantially identical or repurchase the vehicle and reimburse the buyer in an amount equal to the actual price paid or payable by the consumer (less a reasonable allowance for consumer use). The consumer has the right to choose whether to receive a refund or replacement vehicle.

California Civil Code Section 1793.22(b) presumes that the manufacturer has had a reasonable number of attempts to conform the vehicle to its applicable express warranties if, within the first 18 months of ownership of a new vehicle or the first 29 000 km (18 000 miles), whichever occurs first:

  1. Two or more repair attempts are made on the same nonconformity likely to cause death or serious bodily injury OR
  2. Four or more repair attempts are made on the same nonconformity (a defect or condition that substantially impairs the use, value or safety of the vehicle) OR
  3. The vehicle is out of service for repair of nonconformities for a total of more than 30 calendar days (not necessarily all at one time)

In the case of 1 or 2 above, the consumer must also notify the manufacturer of the need for the repair of the nonconformity at the following address:

16800 Executive Plaza Drive Mail Drop 3NE-B Dearborn, MI 48126

Customer Assistance

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS (U.S. ONLY)

If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Ford Motor Company.

If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if 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 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in the Washington D.C. area) or write to:

NHTSA

U.S. Department of Transportation

Washington, D.C. 20590

You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hot-line.

Ford Motor Company

Cleaning

WASHING THE EXTERIOR OF YOUR VEHICLE

Never wash a vehicle that is "hot to the touch" or during exposure to strong, direct sunlight. It is recommended that you wash your vehicle regularly with cool or lukewarm water and a neutral Ph shampoo, such as Detail Wash (ZC-3-A), which is available from your authorized Ford, Lincoln or Mercury dealer. Always use a clean sponge or carwash mitt with plenty of water for best results. Dry the vehicle with a chamois or soft terry cloth towel in order to eliminate water spotting.

Mercury Sable (2002) - WASHING THE EXTERIOR OF YOUR VEHICLE - 1

natural_image Illustration of a bucket pouring liquid into a soap bucket next to a rectangular block (no text or symbols)

Never use strong household detergents or soap, such as dish washing or laundry liquid. These products can discolor and spot painted surfaces.

It is especially important to wash the vehicle regularly during winter months, as dirt and road salt are difficult to remove and do cause damage to the vehicle.

Items such as gasoline, diesel fuel, bird droppings and insect deposits should be washed and sponged off as soon as possible. Deposits not removed promptly can cause damage to the vehicle's paintwork and trim over time.

Remove any exterior accessories, such as antennas, before entering a car wash.

PROTECTING THE PAINT FINISH OF YOUR VEHICLE

Applying a polymer paint sealant to your vehicle on a regular basis will assist in reducing minor scratches and paint damage.

A typical paint sealant lasts approximately six months to a year, depending on local weather conditions and the cleaning soap that is used in washing the vehicle.

Do not use a wax that beads excessively.

Do not allow paint sealant to come in contact with any non-body (low-gloss black) colored trim, such as grained door handles, roof racks, bumpers, side moldings, mirror housings or the windshield

Cleaning

cowl area. The paint sealant will "gray" or stain the parts over time.

REPAIRING PAINT CHIPS

Remove particles such as bird droppings, tree sap, insect deposits, tar spots, road salt and industrial fallout before repairing paint chips.

Minor scratches or paint damage from road debris may be repaired using the Ultra Touch Prep and Finishing Kit (F7AZ-19K507–BA), which is available at your authorized Ford, Lincoln or Mercury dealer. This kit contains:

• Lacquer Touch-Up Paint (ALBZ-19500-XXXXA)
- Exterior Acrylic Spray Lacquer (ALAZ-19500-XXXXA)

Please note that the part numbers (shown as XXXX above) will vary with your vehicle's specific coloring. Carefully observe the application instructions on the products.

CLEANING THE WHEEL RIMS AND COVERS

Aluminum wheel rims or covers are coated with a clearcoat paint finish.

Some automatic car washes may cause damage to the finish on your wheel rims or covers. Chemical-strength cleaners, or cleaning chemicals, in combination with brush agitation to remove brake dust and dirt, could wear away the clearcoat finish over time.

Do not use hydrofluoric acid-based or high caustic-based wheel cleaners, steel wool, fuels or strong household detergents for soiled wheel rims and covers.

Never apply any cleaning chemical to hot or warm wheel rims or covers.

Clean wheel rims and covers with Detail Wash (ZC-3-A), which is available from your authorized Ford, Lincoln or Mercury dealer. Spray cleaner on cool wheel rims or covers and allow to set for 2–5 minutes. Agitate the area with a sponge and rinse off with plenty of water.

Use Extra Strength Tar and Road Oil Removal (B7A-19520-AA), available from your authorized Ford, Lincoln or Mercury dealer, in order to remove tar and grease from wheel rims and covers.

Cleaning

CLEANING THE ENGINE

Engines are more efficient when they are clean because grease and dirt buildup keep the engine warmer than normal. When washing:

  • The engine must be cool to the touch before spraying with water.
  • Never spray a hot engine with cold water, as damage to the engine block or engine components may occur.
  • Use caution when using a self-serve power washer (1000psi maximum pressure) to clean the engine, as the high-pressure fluid could penetrate the sealed parts and cause damage.
  • Never apply anything to any exposed belts in the engine compartment, including belt dressing.

For general cleaning of the engine and engine compartment, spray Engine Shampoo and Degreaser (F4AZ-19A536-A) on all parts that require cleaning and pressure rinse the area with cool water.

- Cover the highlighted areas to prevent water damage when cleaning the engine.

Mercury Sable (2002) - CLEANING THE ENGINE - 1

natural_image Technical line drawing of a car engine bay with internal components and a highlighted battery compartment (no text or labels)

• 3.0L Vulcan engine

Cleaning

Mercury Sable (2002) - Cleaning - 1

natural_image Technical line drawing of an internal combustion engine bay with blue battery compartment (no text or labels)

• 3.0L Duratec engine
- Never wash or rinse the engine while it is running; water in the running engine may cause internal damage.

WASHING NON-PAINTED PLASTIC EXTERIOR PARTS

Use Detail Wash (ZC-3-A) for routine cleaning.

If tar or grease spots are present, clean with Extra Strength Tar and Road Oil Removal (B7A-19520-AA).

Use only approved products to clean plastic parts. These products are available from your authorized Ford, Lincoln or Mercury dealer.

WASHING THE EXTERIOR LAMPS

In order to avoid scratching the plastic lamps, do not use dry paper towels, non-approved chemical solvents or abrasive cleaners.

Use a soft cloth and a solution of Triple Clean (EOAZ-19526-AA), mixed properly with water, in order to remove bug residue. If tar or grease spots are present, clean with Extra Strength Tar and Road Oil Removal (B7A-19520-AA).

Cleaning

CLEANING THE WINDSHIELD, WIPER BLADES AND REAR WINDOW

If the wiper does not wipe properly, substances on the windshield, rear window or the wiper blades may be the cause. These may include hot wax treatments used by commercial car washes, tree sap, or other organic contamination.

Do not clean the windshield or rear window glass with abrasives, as they may cause scratches.

Do not use fuel, kerosene, or paint thinner to clean the windshield, rear window or the wiper blades as damage may occur.

Clean the outside of the windshield or rear window with a non-abrasive cleaner such as Ultra Clear Spray Glass Cleaner (E4AZ-19C507-AA), available from your authorized Ford, Lincoln or Mercury dealer. If after cleaning the glass surface, the water sheets from the glass (e.g., does not bead), then the window is clean.

The windshield, rear window and wiper blades should be cleaned regularly. Wiper blades can be cleaned with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol or windshield washer solution. Be sure to replace wiper blades when they appear worn or do not function properly.

CLEANING THE INSTRUMENT PANEL

Clean the instrument panel with a damp cloth, then dry with a dry cloth.

Avoid cleaners or polish that increase the gloss of the upper portion of the instrument panel. The dull finish in this area helps protect the driver from undesirable windshield reflection.

Your vehicle is designed with painted controls and features which are particularly sensitive to certain products such as insect repellent and suntan lotion. When operating the various features on your vehicle, be certain to wash or wipe your hands clean if you have been in contact with any of these types of products in order to avoid possible damage to the painted surfaces.

Mercury Sable (2002) - CLEANING THE INSTRUMENT PANEL - 1

Do not use chemical solvents or strong detergents when cleaning the steering wheel or instrument panel to avoid contamination of r bag system.

Cleaning

Cleaning the instrument cluster lens

Wipe the cluster area with a soft, damp cotton towel. Dry the area with a clean, dry towel.

CLEANING SEATS EQUIPPED WITH SIDE AIR BAGS

Remove dust and loose dirt with a vacuum cleaner. In order to remove stains and soil, clean with Extra Strength Upholstery Cleaner (E8AZ-19523-AA).

Never saturate the seat covers with any cleaning solution.

Do not use chemical solvents or strong detergents when cleaning the seat where the side air bag is mounted. Such products could contaminate the side air bag system and affect performance of the side air bag in a collision. The air bag may not function correctly and not provide injury reduction benefits.

CLEANING THE INTERIOR FABRIC, CARPETS AND CLOTH SEATS

Remove dust and loose dirt with a vacuum cleaner. Remove light stains and soil with Extra Strength Upholstery Cleaner (E8AZ-19523-AA).

Never saturate the seat covers with cleaning solution.

Do not use household cleaning products or glass cleaners, which can stain and discolor the fabric and affect the flame retardant abilities of the seat materials.

If grease or tar is present on the material, spot-clean the area first with Spot and Stain Remover (F3AZ-19521-WA). Follow up by recleaning the area with Extra Strength Upholstery Cleaner (E8AZ-19523-AA).

CLEANING LEATHER SEATS (IF EQUIPPED)

All Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles with leather seating surfaces have a clear, protective coating over the leather.

To clean the leather seats, simply use a soft cloth with Deluxe Leather and Vinyl Cleaner (F2AZ-19521-WA). Dry the area with a soft cloth.

It is recommended that you use the Deluxe Leather Care Kit (F8AZ-19G253-AA), available from your authorized Ford, Lincoln or Mercury dealer. The mild cleaner and special pad available in the kit cleans the leather and maintains its natural beauty. For best results, follow the instructions printed on the cleaner label. Regular cleaning of your leather upholstery helps maintain its resiliency and color.

Cleaning

Do not use household cleaning products, alcohol solutions, solvents or cleaners intended for rubber, vinyl and plastics, or oil/petroleum-based leather conditioners. These products may cause premature wearing of the clear, protective coating.

CLEANING THE INSIDE WINDOWS

Use Ultra Clear Spray Glass Cleaner (E4AZ-19C507-AA) for the inside windows if they become fogged.

To clean, use two lint-free, soft towels, folded into a pad-shape. Mist the glass completely with cleaner, and use one of the towels to evenly agitate the surface. Use the other towel to remove the residue.

CLEANING AND MAINTAINING THE SAFETY BELTS

Clean the safety belts with Extra Strength Upholstery Cleaner (E8AZ-19523-AA), available from your authorized Ford, Lincoln or Mercury dealer.

Do not use bleach, dye or any other solvent to clean the belts, as these actions may weaken the belt webbing.

UNDERBODY

Flush the complete underside of your vehicle frequently. Keep body and door drain holes free from packed dirt.

CLEANING WOOD-TONE TRIM

Wipe stains with a clean, soft cloth and Ultra Clear Spray Glass Cleaner (E4AZ-19C507-AA). Dry the area by wiping with a dry, soft, clean cloth.

FORD, LINCOLN AND MERCURY CAR CARE PRODUCTS

Your Ford, Lincoln or Mercury dealer has many quality products available to clean your vehicle and protect its finishes. These quality products have been specifically engineered to fulfill your automotive needs; they are custom designed to complement the style and appearance of your vehicle. Each product is made from high quality materials that meet or exceed rigid specifications. For best results, use the following or products of equivalent quality:

Ford Custom Clearcoat Polish*

Ford Custom Silicone Gloss Polish

Ford Custom Vinyl Protectant* (not available in Canada)

Cleaning

Motorcraft Vinyl Conditioner (Canada only)

Ford Deluxe Leather and Vinyl Cleaner (not available in Canada)

Motorcraft Vinyl Cleaner (Canada only)

Ford Extra Strength Tar and Road Oil Remover* (not available in Canada)

Ford Extra Strength Upholstery Cleaner (not available in Canada)

Ford Custom Bright Metal Cleaner

Motorcraft Premium Car Wash Concentrate

Motorcraft Carlite Glass Cleaner (Canada only)

Ford Spot and Stain Remover*

Ford Super Premium Tire and Trim Dressing

Ford Triple Clean

Ford Ultra-Clear Spray Glass Cleaner (not available in Canada)

Ford Engine Shampoo and Degreaser

* May be sold with the Motorcraft name

Maintenance and Specifications

SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS

To help you service your vehicle:

  • We highlight do-it-yourself items in the engine compartment for easy location.
  • We provide a scheduled maintenance guide which makes tracking routine service easy.

If your vehicle requires professional service, your dealership can provide the necessary parts and service. Check your Warranty Guide to find out which parts and services are covered.

Use only recommended fuels, lubricants, fluids and service parts conforming to specifications. Motorcraft parts are designed and built to provide the best performance in your vehicle.

PRECAUTIONS WHEN SERVICING YOUR VEHICLE

Be especially careful when inspecting or servicing your vehicle.

  • Do not work on a hot engine.
  • When the engine is running, keep loose clothing, jewelry or long hair away from moving parts.
  • 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 in the Battery section in this chapter.

Working with the engine off

  1. Set the parking brake, and ensure the gearshift is securely latched in (P) park.
  2. Turn off the engine and remove the key.
  3. Block the wheels to prevent the vehicle from moving unexpectedly.

Maintenance and Specifications

Working with the engine on

  1. Set the parking brake and ensure the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park).
  2. Block the wheels to prevent the vehicle from moving unexpectedly.

Note: Do not start your engine with the air cleaner removed and do not remove it while the engine is running.

OPENING THE HOOD

Mercury Sable (2002) - OPENING THE HOOD - 1

  1. Inside the vehicle, pull the hood release handle located under the bottom of the instrument panel.
  2. Go to the front of the vehicle and release the auxiliary latch located in the center between the hood and the grille.
  3. Lift the hood until the lift cylinders hold it open.

Mercury Sable (2002) - OPENING THE HOOD - 2

natural_image Line drawing of a car interior showing dashboard, seatbelt, and hand crank (no text or symbols)

Maintenance and Specifications

IDENTIFYING COMPONENTS IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT

3.0L V6 Vulcan engine

Labeled diagram of a car engine bay with numbered parts for identification

  1. Automatic transmission fluid dipstick
  2. Brake fluid reservoir
  3. Air filter assembly
  4. Battery
  5. Engine oil filler cap
  6. Engine oil dipstick
  7. Engine coolant reservoir
  8. Windshield washer fluid reservoir
  9. Power steering fluid reservoir

(may be in either location shown)

Maintenance and Specifications

3.0L DOHC V6 Duratec engine

Labeled diagram of a car engine bay with numbered parts for identification

  1. Automatic transmission fluid dipstick
  2. Brake fluid reservoir
  3. Air filter assembly
  4. Battery
  5. Engine oil dipstick
  6. Engine oil filler cap
  7. Engine coolant reservoir
  8. Windshield washer fluid reservoir
  9. Power steering fluid reservoir

Maintenance and Specifications

WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID

Mercury Sable (2002) - WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID - 1

Washer fluid

Check the washer fluid whenever you stop for fuel. The reservoir is highlighted with a symbol.

If the level is low, add enough fluid to fill the reservoir. In very cold weather, do not fill the reservoir all the way.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Washer fluid - 1

natural_image Technical line drawing of a mechanical assembly with no visible text or symbols

Only use a washer fluid that meets Ford specification ESR-M17P5-A. Refer to Lubricant specifications in this chapter.

State or local regulations on volatile organic compounds may restrict the use of methanol, a common windshield washer antifreeze additive. Washer fluids containing non-methanol antifreeze agents should be used only if they provide cold weather protection without damaging the vehicle's paint finish, wiper blades or washer system.

Note: Do not put washer fluid in the engine coolant reservoir. Washer fluid placed in the cooling system may harm engine and cooling system components.

Maintenance and Specifications

Checking and adding washer fluid for the liftgate (if equipped)

The opening for the reservoir is located on the passenger side under the tail lamp. Refill this reservoir with the same fluid you use for your windshield.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Checking and adding washer fluid for the liftgate (if equipped) - 1

natural_image Line drawing of a mechanical component with a blue arrow pointing to a specific area (no text or symbols present)

ENGINE OIL

Checking the engine oil

Refer to the scheduled maintenance guide for the appropriate intervals for checking the engine oil.

  1. Make sure the vehicle is on level ground.
  2. Turn the engine off and wait a few minutes for the oil to drain into the oil pan.
  3. Set the parking brake and ensure the gearshift is securely latched in P.
  4. Open the hood. Protect yourself from engine heat.

Maintenance and Specifications

  1. Locate and carefully remove the engine oil indicator (dipstick).

MIN MAX 1QT→ FULL

  1. Wipe the indicator clean. Insert the indicator fully, then remove it again.

- If the oil level is between the add 1QT and FULL marks or between the MIN and MAX marks (depending on application), the oil level is acceptable. DO NOT ADD OIL.

- If the oil level is below the add 1QT or MIN mark, add enough oil to raise the level within the 1QT-FULL or the MIN-MAX range (depending on application).

Mercury Sable (2002) - Maintenance and Specifications - 2

natural_image Technical line drawing of an engine component with hoses and a clamp (no text or symbols)

- Oil levels above the F in FULL or above the MAX mark, may cause engine damage. Some oil must be removed from the engine by a service technician.

  1. Put the indicator back in and ensure it is fully seated.

Maintenance and Specifications

Adding engine oil

  1. Check the engine oil. For instructions, refer to Checking the engine oil in this chapter.
  2. If the engine oil level is not within the normal range, add only certified engine oil of the recommended viscosity. Remove the engine oil filler cap and use a funnel to pour the engine oil into the opening.
  3. Recheck the engine oil level. Make sure the oil level is not above the MAX mark or the letter F in FULL on the engine oil level indicator (dipstick).
  4. Install the indicator and ensure it is fully seated.
  5. Fully install the engine oil filler cap by turning the filler cap clockwise until it stops.

To avoid possible oil loss, DO NOT operate the vehicle with the engine oil level indicator and/or the engine oil filler cap removed.

Engine oil and filter recommendations

Look for this certification trademark.

AMERICAN PETROLEUM INSTITUTE FOR GASOLINE ENGINES CERTIFIED Motorcraft SAE 5W-20 MOTOR OIL 1QUART (0.946L)

Only use oils “Certified For Gasoline Engines” by the American Petroleum Institute (API). Use Motorcraft or an equivalent oil meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C153-H. SAE 5W-20 oil provides optimum fuel economy and durability performance meeting all requirements for your vehicle’s engine.

Do not use supplemental engine oil additives, oil treatments or engine treatments. They are unnecessary and could, under certain conditions, lead to engine damage which is not covered by your warranty.

Change your engine oil and filter according to the appropriate schedule listed in the scheduled maintenance guide.

Maintenance and Specifications

Ford production and aftermarket (Motorcraft) oil filters are designed for added engine protection and long life. If a replacement oil filter is used that does not meet Ford material and design specifications, start-up engine noises or knock may be experienced.

It is recommended you use the appropriate Motorcraft oil filter (or another brand meeting Ford specifications) for your engine application.

BATTERY - +

Your vehicle is equipped with a Motorcraft maintenance-free battery which normally does not require additional water during its life of service.

Mercury Sable (2002) - BATTERY - + - 1

natural_image Technical line drawing of an engine bay with hoses and a blue battery component (no text or symbols)

However, for severe usage or in high temperature climates, check the battery electrolyte level. Refer to the scheduled maintenance guide for the service interval schedules.

Keep the electrolyte level in each cell up to the "level indicator". Do not overfill the battery cells.

If the electrolyte level in the battery is low, you can add plain tap water to the battery, as long as you do not use hard water (water with a high mineral or alkali content). If possible, however, try to only fill the battery cells with distilled water. If the battery needs water often, have the charging system checked.

If your battery has a cover/shield, make sure it is reinstalled after the battery has been cleaned or replaced.

For longer, trouble-free operation, keep the top of the battery clean and dry. Also, make certain the battery cables are always tightly fastened to the battery terminals.

If you see any corrosion on the battery or terminals, remove the cables from the terminals and clean with a wire brush. You can neutralize the acid with a solution of baking soda and water.

Maintenance and Specifications

Batteries normally produce explosive gases which can cause personal injury. Therefore, do not allow flames, sparks or lighted substances to come near the battery. When working near the battery, always shield your face and protect your eyes. Always provide proper ventilation.

When lifting a plastic-cased battery, excessive pressure on the end walls could cause acid to flow through the vent caps, resulting in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or battery. Lift the battery with a battery carrier or with your hands on opposite corners.

Keep batteries out of reach of children. Batteries contain sulfuric acid. Avoid contact with skin, eyes or clothing. Shield your eyes when working near the battery to protect against possible splashing of acid solution. In case of acid contact with skin or eyes, flush immediately with water for a minimum of 15 minutes and get prompt medical attention. If acid is swallowed, call a physician immediately.

Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash hands after handling.

Because your vehicle's engine is electronically controlled by a computer, some control conditions are maintained by power from the battery. When the battery is disconnected or a new battery is installed, the engine must relearn its idle and fuel trim strategy for optimum driveability and performance. To begin this process:

  1. With the vehicle at a complete stop, set the parking brake.
  2. Put the gearshift in P (Park), turn off all accessories and start the engine.
  3. Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature.
  4. Allow the engine to idle for at least one minute.
  5. Turn the A/C on and allow the engine to idle for at least one minute.
  6. Release the parking brake. With your foot on the brake pedal and with the A/C on, put the vehicle in D (Drive) and allow the engine to idle for at least one minute.

Maintenance and Specifications

  1. Drive the vehicle to complete the relearning process.

  2. The vehicle may need to be driven 16 km (10 miles) or more to relearn the idle and fuel trim strategy.

  3. If you do not allow the engine to relearn its idle trim, the idle quality of your vehicle may be adversely affected until the idle trim is eventually relearned.

If the battery has been disconnected or a new battery has been installed, the clock must be reset once the battery is reconnected.

- Always dispose of automotive batteries in a responsible manner. Follow your local authorized standards for disposal. Call your local authorized recycling center to find out more about recycling automotive batteries.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Maintenance and Specifications - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    A["LEAD"] --> B["RETURN"]
    B --> C["RECYCLE"]
    C --> A

ENGINE COOLANT

Mercury Sable (2002) - ENGINE COOLANT - 1

Checking engine coolant

The concentration and level of engine coolant should be checked at the mileage intervals listed in the scheduled maintenance guide. The coolant concentration should be maintained at 50/50 coolant and water, which equates to a freeze point of -36^ C ( -34^ F). Coolant concentration testing is possible with a hydrometer or antifreeze tester (such as the Rotunda Battery and Antifreeze Tester, 014–R1060). The level of coolant should be maintained at the “cold full” of “cold fill range” level in the coolant reservoir. If the level falls below, add coolant per the instructions in the Adding engine coolant section.

Your vehicle was factory-filled with a 50/50 engine coolant and water concentration. If the concentration of coolant falls below 40% or above 60%, the engine parts could become damaged or not work properly. A 50–50 mixture of coolant and water provides the following:

  • Freeze protection down to -36^ (-34°F).
  • Boiling protection up to 129^ (265° F).
  • Protection against rust and other forms of corrosion.

Maintenance and Specifications

- Enables calibrated gauges to work properly.

When the engine is cold, check the level of the engine coolant in the reservoir.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Maintenance and Specifications - 1

natural_image Technical line drawing of a mechanical assembly with no visible text or symbols
  • The engine coolant should be at the "cold fill level" or within the "cold fill range" as listed on the engine coolant reservoir (depending upon application).
  • Refer to the Scheduled Maintenance Guide for service interval schedules.
  • Be sure to read and understand Precautions when servicing your vehicle in this chapter.

If the engine coolant has not been checked at the recommended interval, the engine coolant reservoir may become low or empty. If the reservoir is low or empty, add engine coolant to the reservoir. Refer to Adding engine coolant in this chapter.

Note: Automotive fluids are not interchangeable; do not use engine coolant, antifreeze or windshield washer fluid outside of its specified function and vehicle location.

Adding engine coolant

When adding coolant, make sure it is a 50/50 mixture of engine coolant and distilled water. Add the mixture to the coolant reservoir, when the engine is cool, until the appropriate fill level is obtained.

Maintenance and Specifications

Mercury Sable (2002) - Maintenance and Specifications - 1

Do not add engine coolant when the engine is hot. Steam and scalding liquids released from a hot cooling system can burn you. Also, you can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Maintenance and Specifications - 2

Do not put engine coolant in the windshield washer fluid container. If sprayed on the windshield, engine coolant could it difficult to see through the windshield.

The cooling system in your vehicle is filled with either green-colored Motorcraft Premium Engine Coolant meeting Ford specification ESE-M97B44-A or yellow-colored Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant meeting Ford Specification WSS-M97B51-A1. To determine your vehicle's coolant type (color), check your coolant reservoir.

- Add Motorcraft Premium Engine Coolant (green-colored), VC-4-A (U.S.) or CXC-10 (Canada) or Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant (yellow-colored), VC-7-A (VC-7-B in Oregon), depending on the type of coolant originally equipped in your vehicle. If you are unsure which type of coolant your vehicle requires, check your coolant reservoir or contact your local dealer.

Note: Use of Motorcraft Cooling System Stop Leak Pellets, VC-6, darkens the color of Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant from yellow to golden tan.

- Do not add/mix an orange-colored, extended life coolant such as Motorcraft Speciality Orange Engine Coolant, VC-2 (US) or CXC-209 (Canada), meeting Ford specification WSS-M97B44-D with the factory-filled coolant. Mixing Motorcraft Speciality Orange Engine Coolant or any orange-colored extended life product with your factory filled coolant can result in degraded corrosion protection.

- A large amount of water without engine coolant may be added, in case of emergency, to reach a vehicle service location. In this instance, the cooling system must be drained and refilled with a 50/50 mixture of engine coolant and distilled water as soon as possible. Water alone (without engine coolant) can cause engine damage from corrosion, overheating or freezing.

- Do not use alcohol, methanol, brine or any engine coolants mixed with alcohol or methanol antifreeze (coolant). Alcohol and other liquids can cause engine damage from overheating or freezing.

Maintenance and Specifications

  • Do not add extra inhibitors or additives to the coolant. These can be harmful and compromise the corrosion protection of the engine coolant.
  • Do not mix with recycled coolant unless from a Ford-approved recycling process (see Use of Recycled engine coolant section).

For vehicles with overflow coolant systems with a non-pressurized cap on the coolant recovery system, add coolant to the coolant recovery reservoir when the engine is cool. Add the proper mixture of coolant and water to the “cold full” level. For all other vehicles, which have a coolant degas system with a pressurized cap, or if it is necessary to remove the coolant pressure relief cap on the radiator of a vehicle with an overflow system, follow these steps to add engine coolant.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Maintenance and Specifications - 1

To reduce the risk of personal injury, make sure the engine is cool before unscrewing the coolant pressure relief cap. The system is under pressure; steam and hot liquid can come out fully when the cap is loosened slightly.

  1. Before you begin, turn the engine off and let it cool.
  2. When the engine is cool, wrap a thick cloth around the coolant pressure relief cap on the coolant reservoir (an opaque plastic bottle). Slowly turn cap counterclockwise (left) until pressure begins to release.
  3. Step back while the pressure releases.
  4. When you are sure that all the pressure has been released, use the cloth to turn it counterclockwise and remove the cap.
  5. Fill the coolant reservoir slowly with the proper coolant mixture (see above), to within the "cold fill range" or the "cold full" level on the reservoir. If you removed the radiator cap in an overflow system, fill the radiator until the coolant is visible and radiator is almost full.
  6. Replace the cap. Turn until tightly installed. (Cap must be tightly installed to prevent coolant loss.)

After any coolant has been added, check the coolant concentration see Checking Engine Coolant section). If the concentration is not 50/50 (protection to -34^ F/ -36^ C), drain some coolant and adjust the concentration. It may take several drains and additions to obtain a 50/50 coolant concentration.

Whenever coolant has been added, the coolant level in the coolant reservoir should be checked the next few times you drive the vehicle. If

Maintenance and Specifications

necessary, add enough 50/50 concentration of engine coolant and distilled water to bring the liquid level to the proper level.

If you have to add more than 1.0 liter (1.0 quart) of engine coolant per month, have your dealer check the engine cooling system. Your cooling system may have a leak. Operating an engine with a low level of coolant can result in engine overheating and possible engine damage.

Recycled engine coolant

Ford Motor Company recommends the use of a recycled engine coolant produced by Ford-approved processes in vehicles originally equipped with Motorcraft Premium Engine Coolant (green-colored). However, not all coolant recycling processes produce coolant that meets Ford specification ESE-M97B44-A. Use of such coolant may harm the engine and cooling system components.

Ford Motor Company does NOT recommend the use of recycled engine coolant in vehicles originally equipped with Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant since a Ford-approved recycling process is not yet available.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Recycled engine coolant - 1

Used engine coolant should be disposed of in an appropriate

manner. Follow your community's regulations and standards for recycling and disposing of automotive fluids.

Coolant refill capacity

To find out how much fluid your vehicle's cooling system can hold, refer to Refill capacities in this chapter.

Fill your engine coolant reservoir as outlined in Adding engine coolant in this chapter.

Severe climates

If you drive in extremely cold climates (less than -36^ C [-34^ F]):

  • It may be necessary to increase the coolant concentration above 50%.
  • NEVER increase the coolant concentration above 60% .
  • Increased engine coolant concentrations above 60% will decrease the overheat protection characteristics of the engine coolant and may cause engine damage.

Maintenance and Specifications

- Refer to the chart on the coolant container to ensure the coolant concentration in your vehicle will provide adequate freeze protection at the temperatures in which you drive in the winter months.

If you drive in extremely hot climates:

  • It is still necessary to maintain the coolant concentration above 40%.
  • NEVER decrease the coolant concentration below 40% .
  • Decreased engine coolant concentrations below 40% will decrease the corrosion protection characteristics of the engine coolant and may cause engine damage.
  • Decreased engine coolant concentrations below 40% will decrease the freeze protection characteristics of the engine coolant and may cause engine damage.
  • Refer to the chart on the coolant container to ensure the coolant concentration in your vehicle will provide adequate protection at the temperatures in which you drive.

Vehicles driven year-round in non-extreme climates should use a 50/50 mixture of engine coolant and distilled water for optimum cooling system and engine protection.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT AUTOMOTIVE FUELS

Mercury Sable (2002) - WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT AUTOMOTIVE FUELS - 1

Important safety precautions

Mercury Sable (2002) - Important safety precautions - 1

Do not overfill the fuel tank. The pressure in an overfilled tank may cause leakage and lead to fuel spray and fire.

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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 completely removing the fuel filler cap. Otherwise, fuel may out and injure you or others.

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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 fuel cap to disengage in a collision, which may result in possible mal injury.

Maintenance and Specifications

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Automotive fuels can cause serious injury or death if misused or mishandled.

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Fuel ethanol and gasoline may contain benzene, which is a cancer-causing agent.

Observe the following guidelines when handling automotive fuel:

- Extinguish all smoking materials and any open flames before fueling your vehicle.

• Always turn off the vehicle before fueling.

- Automotive fuels can be harmful or fatal if swallowed. Fuels such as gasoline and ethanol are highly toxic and if swallowed can cause death or permanent injury. If fuel is swallowed, call a physician immediately, even if no symptoms are immediately apparent. The toxic effects of fuel may not be visible for hours.

- Avoid inhaling fuel vapors. Inhaling too much fuel vapor of any kind can lead to eye and respiratory tract irritation. In severe cases, excessive or prolonged breathing of fuel vapor can cause serious illness and permanent injury.

- Avoid getting fuel liquid in your eyes. If fuel is splashed in the eyes, remove contact lenses (if worn), flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Failure to seek proper medical attention could lead to permanent injury.

- Fuels can also be harmful if absorbed through the skin. If fuel is splashed on the skin and/or clothing, promptly remove contaminated clothing and wash skin thoroughly with soap and water. Repeated or prolonged skin contact with fuel liquid or vapor causes skin irritation.

- Be particularly careful if you are taking "Antabuse" or other forms of disulfiram for the treatment of alcoholism. Breathing gasoline and/or ethanol vapors, or skin contact could cause an adverse reaction. In sensitive individuals, serious personal injury or sickness may result. If

Mercury Sable (2002) - Maintenance and Specifications - 3

Maintenance and Specifications

fuel is splashed on the skin, promptly wash skin thoroughly with soap and water. Consult a physician immediately if you experience an adverse reaction.

- FFV fuel tanks may contain zero to 85 percent ethanol. Any fuel blends containing gasoline and ethanol should be treated the same as "Fuel Ethanol". To identify if your vehicle is an FFV, check your VIN or the label on the inside of your fuel filler door. When checking the VIN look for the engine type identifier (8th character). If your vehicle is an FFV, then the character will be labeled as a "2."

Pure ethanol is the alcohol which is the intoxicating agent in liquor, beer and wine. It is distilled from the fermentation of plants such as field corn and sugar cane. When ethanol is used in the making of motor fuels, a small amount of a bad tasting chemical is added to discourage beverage use. The resulting fuel is called E_d 100 meaning 100% pure ethanol diluted by 2% to 5% gasoline as the “denaturant.”

Fuel ethanol (summer blend _d ) is then made by adding 15% more unleaded gasoline. The resulting fuel also has a higher octane rating than unleaded regular gasoline and other properties which allow engine designs with greater efficiency and power.

Winter blends may contain up to 30% (E70)unleaded gasoline (25% plus the denaturant) to enhance cold engine starts. Severely cold weather may require additional measures for reliable starting. Refer to Cold Weather Starting in the Driving chapter.

Ethanol is more chemically active than gasoline. It corrodes some metals and causes some plastic and rubber components to swell, break down or become brittle and crack, especially when mixed with gasoline. Special materials and procedures have been developed for flexible fuel vehicles and the dispensers used by ethanol fuel providers.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Maintenance and Specifications - 1

Flexible fuel components and standard unleaded gasoline fuel components are not interchangeable. If your vehicle is not

serviced in accordance with flexible fuel vehicles procedures, damage may occur and your warranty may be invalidated.

Maintenance and Specifications

Mercury Sable (2002) - Maintenance and Specifications - 1

When refueling always shut the engine off and never allow sparks or open flames near the filler neck. Never smoke while ing. Fuel vapor is extremely hazardous under certain conditions. should be taken to avoid inhaling excess fumes.

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The flow of fuel through a fuel pump nozzle can produce static electricity, which can cause a fire if fuel is pumped into an unfed fuel container.

Use the following guidelines to avoid static build-up when filling an ungrounded fuel container:

  • Place approved fuel container on the ground.
  • DO NOT fill a fuel container while it is in the vehicle (including the cargo area).
  • Keep the fuel pump nozzle in contact with the fuel container while filling.
  • DO NOT use a device that would hold the fuel pump handle in the fill position.

Fuel Filler Cap

Your fuel tank filler cap has an indexed design with a 1/8 turn on/off feature.

When fueling your vehicle:

  1. Turn the engine off.
  2. Carefully turn the filler cap counterclockwise 1/8 of a turn until it stops.
  3. Pull to remove the cap from the fuel filler pipe.
  4. To install the cap, align the tabs on the cap with the notches on the filler pipe.
  5. Turn the filler cap clockwise 1/8 of a turn until it stops.

If the “Check Fuel Cap” indicator comes on or if “Service Engine Soon/Check Engine” indicator comes on and stays on when you start the engine, the fuel filler cap may not be properly installed. Turn off the engine, remove the fuel filler cap, align the cap properly and reinstall it.

Maintenance and Specifications

If you must replace the fuel filler cap, replace it with a fuel filler cap that is designed for your vehicle. The customer warranty may be void for any damage to the fuel tank or fuel system if the correct genuine Ford or Motorcraft fuel filler cap is not used.

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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 completely removing the fuel filler cap. Otherwise, fuel may out and injure you or others.

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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 fuel cap to disengage in a collision, which may result in possible initial injury.

Choosing the right fuel

Use only UNLEADED FUEL. The use of leaded fuel is prohibited by law and could damage your vehicle.

If your vehicle is a flexible fuel vehicle (FFV), use only UNLEADED FUEL and ETHANOL. The use of leaded fuel is prohibited by law and could damage your vehicle.

Do not use fuel containing methanol. It can damage critical fuel system components.

Your vehicle was not designed to use fuel or fuel additives with metallic compounds, including manganese-based compounds containing MMT.

Repairs to correct the effects of using a fuel for which your vehicle was not designed may not be covered by your warranty.

Maintenance and Specifications

Octane recommendations

Do not be concerned if your engine sometimes knocks lightly. However, if it knocks heavily under most driving conditions while you are using fuel with the recommended octane rating, see your dealer or a qualified service technician to prevent any engine damage.

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Unleaded Gasoline engines

Your vehicle is designed to use "Regular" unleaded gasoline with an (R+M)/2 octane rating of 87. We do not recommend the use of gasolines labeled as "Regular" that are sold with octane ratings of 86 or lower in high altitude areas.

FFV engine (if equipped)

Your vehicle is designed to use Fuel Ethanol, "Regular" unleaded gasoline or any percentage of the two fuels combined.

U.S. government regulations require fuel ethanol dispensing pumps to have a small, square, orange and black label with the common abbreviation or the appropriate percentage for that region. Use of other fuels such as Fuel Methanol may cause powertrain damage, a loss of vehicle performance, and your warranty may be invalidated.

Fuel quality

Many of the world's automakers issued the World-wide Fuel Charter that recommends gasoline specifications to provide improved performance and emission control system protection for your vehicle. Gasolines that meet the World-wide Fuel Charter should be used when available. Ask your fuel supplier about gasolines that meet the World-wide Fuel Charter. In Canada, look for fuels that display the Auto Makers' Choice ^™ logo.

It should not be necessary to add any aftermarket products to your fuel tank if you continue to use high quality fuel of the recommended octane rating. Aftermarket products could cause damage to the fuel system.

Auto Safety Choice Only are considered

Maintenance and Specifications

Repairs to correct the effects of using an aftermarket product in your fuel may not be covered by your warranty.

Unleaded Gasoline engines

If you are experiencing starting, rough idle or hesitation driveability problems during a cold start, try a different brand of “Regular” unleaded gasoline. “Premium” unleaded gasoline is not recommended (particularly in the United States) because it may cause these problems to become more pronounced. If the problems persist, see your dealer or a qualified service technician.

FFV engine (if equipped)

Your FFV will operate well on ordinary “Regular” unleaded gasoline, but only the highest quality fuel ethanol will provide the same level of protection and performance. To identify if your vehicle is an FFV, check your VIN or the label on the inside of your fuel filler door. When checking the VIN, look for the engine type identifier (8th character). If your vehicle is an FFV, then the character will be labeled as a “2.”

Standards for fuel ethanol have been developed to provide FFVs the best possible performance, safety and durability. To assist alcohol fuel providers in meeting these standards, guidelines have also been developed which prescribe “Ethanol Fuel Compatible” dispensing station equipment. These standards and guidelines can be obtained from Ford Motor Company. Fuel stations may apply to be certified as meeting these standards. However, not all stations meet these standards at this time. To ensure proper operation of your FFV on fuel ethanol, refuel at certified stations.

If you are experiencing a rough or rolling idle after start-up with the outside temperature above 27^ C ( 80^ F), the idle should improve within 10 to 30 seconds. If the problems persist below this temperature, see your dealer or a qualified service technician.

Cleaner air

Ford endorses the use of reformulated “cleaner-burning” gasolines to improve air quality.

Running out of fuel

Avoid running out of fuel because this situation may have an adverse effect on powertrain components.

Maintenance and Specifications

If you have run out of fuel:

  • You may need to cycle the ignition from OFF to ON several times after refueling, to allow the fuel system to pump the fuel from the tank to the engine.
  • The indicator may come on. For more information on the "Service Engine Soon" indicator, refer to the Instrument Cluster chapter.

Fuel Filter

For fuel filter replacement, see your dealer or a qualified service technician. Refer to the scheduled maintenance guide for the appropriate intervals for changing the fuel filter.

Replace the fuel filter with an authorized Motorcraft part. The customer warranty may be void for any damage to the fuel system if an authorized Motorcraft fuel filter is not used.

ESSENTIALS OF GOOD FUEL ECONOMY

Measuring techniques

Your best source of information about actual fuel economy is you, the driver. You must gather information as accurately and consistently as possible. Fuel expense, frequency of fillups or fuel gauge readings are NOT accurate as a measure of fuel economy. We do not recommend taking fuel economy measurements during the first 1 600 km (1 000 miles) of driving (engine break-in period). You will get a more accurate measurement after 3 000 km–5 000 km (2 000 miles–3 000 miles).

Filling the tank

The advertised fuel capacity of the fuel tank on your vehicle is equal to the rated refill capacity of the fuel tank as listed in the Refill capacities section of this chapter.

The advertised capacity is the amount of the indicated capacity and the empty reserve combined. Indicated capacity is the difference in the amount of fuel in a full tank and a tank when the fuel gauge indicates empty. Empty reserve is the small amount of fuel remaining in the fuel tank after the fuel gauge indicates empty.

The amount of usable fuel in the empty reserve varies and should not be relied upon to increase driving range. When refueling your vehicle after the fuel gauge indicates empty, you might not be

Maintenance and Specifications

able to refuel the full amount of the advertised capacity of the fuel tank due to the empty reserve still present in the tank.

For consistent results when filling the fuel tank:

  • Turn the engine/ignition switch to the off position prior to refueling, an error in the reading will result if the engine is left running.
  • Use the same filling rate setting (low — medium — high) each time the tank is filled.
  • Allow no more than 2 automatic click-offs when filling.
    • Always use fuel with the recommended octane rating.
  • Use a known quality gasoline, preferably a national brand.
  • Use the same side of the same pump and have the vehicle facing the same direction each time you fill up.
  • Have the vehicle loading and distribution the same every time.
    Your results will be most accurate if your filling method is consistent.

Calculating fuel economy

  1. Fill the fuel tank completely and record the initial odometer reading (in kilometers or miles).
  2. Each time you fill the tank, record the amount of fuel added (in liters or gallons).
  3. After at least three to five tank fill-ups, fill the fuel tank and record the current odometer reading.
  4. Subtract your initial odometer reading from the current odometer reading.
  5. Follow one of the simple calculations in order to determine fuel economy:

Multiply liters used by 100, then divide by total kilometers traveled.

Divide total miles traveled by total gallons used.

Keep a record for at least one month and record the type of driving (city or highway). This will provide an accurate estimate of the vehicle's fuel economy under current driving conditions. Additionally, keeping records during summer and winter will show how temperature impacts fuel economy. In general, lower temperatures give lower fuel economy.

Maintenance and Specifications

Driving style — good driving and fuel economy habits

Give consideration to the lists that follow and you may be able to change a number of variables and improve your fuel economy.

Habits

  • Smooth, moderate operation can yield up to 10% savings in fuel.
  • Steady speeds without stopping will usually give the best fuel economy.
  • Idling for long periods of time (greater than one minute) may waste fuel.
  • Anticipate stopping; slowing down may eliminate the need to stop.
  • Sudden or hard accelerations may reduce fuel economy.
  • Slow down gradually.
  • Driving at reasonable speeds (traveling at 88 km/h [55 mph] uses 15% less fuel than traveling at 105 km/h [65 mph]).
  • Revving the engine before turning it off may reduce fuel economy.
  • Using the air conditioner or defroster may reduce fuel economy.
  • You may want to turn off the speed control in hilly terrain if unnecessary shifting between third and fourth gear occurs. Unnecessary shifting of this type could result in reduced fuel economy.
  • Warming up a vehicle on cold mornings is not required and may reduce fuel economy.
  • Resting your foot on the brake pedal while driving may reduce fuel economy.
  • Combine errands and minimize stop-and-go driving.

Maintenance

  • Keep tires properly inflated and use only recommended size.
  • Operating a vehicle with the wheels out of alignment will reduce fuel economy.
  • Use recommended engine oil. Refer to Lubricant specifications in this chapter.
  • Perform all regularly scheduled maintenance items. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule and owner maintenance checks found in your vehicle scheduled maintenance guide.

Maintenance and Specifications

Conditions

  • Heavily loading a vehicle or towing a trailer may reduce fuel economy at any speed.
  • Carrying unnecessary weight may reduce fuel economy (approximately 0.4km / L [1 mpg] is lost for every 180kg [400 lb] of weight carried).
  • Adding certain accessories to your vehicle (for example bug deflectors, rollbars/light bars, running boards, ski/luggage racks) may reduce fuel economy.
  • Using fuel blended with alcohol may lower fuel economy.
  • Fuel economy may decrease with lower temperatures during the first 12–16 km (8–10 miles) of driving.
  • Driving on flat terrain offers improved fuel economy as compared to driving on hilly terrain.
    • Transmissions give their best fuel economy when operated in the top cruise gear and with steady pressure on the gas pedal.
  • Close windows for high speed driving.

EPA window sticker

Every new vehicle should have the EPA window sticker. Contact your dealer if the window sticker is not supplied with your vehicle. The EPA window sticker should be your guide for the fuel economy comparisons with other vehicles.

It is important to note the box in the lower left corner of the window sticker. These numbers represent the Range of L/100 km (MPG) expected on the vehicle under optimum conditions. Your fuel economy may vary depending upon the method of operation and conditions.

Your vehicle is equipped with various emission control components and a catalytic converter which will enable your vehicle to comply with applicable exhaust emission standards. To make sure that the catalytic converter and other emission control components continue to work properly:

  • Use only unleaded fuel (or E85, if equipped with the 3.0L FFV V6 engine).
  • Avoid running out of fuel.
  • Do not turn off the ignition while your vehicle is moving, especially at high speeds.

Maintenance and Specifications

- Have the items listed in your scheduled maintenance guide performed according to the specified schedule.

The scheduled maintenance items listed in the scheduled maintenance guide are essential to the life and performance of your vehicle and to its emissions system.

If other than Ford, Motorcraft or Ford-authorized parts are used for maintenance replacements or for service of components affecting emission control, such non-Ford parts should be equivalent to genuine Ford Motor Company parts in performance and durability.

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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.

Illumination of the 📋 indicator, charging system warning light or the temperature warning light, fluid leaks, strange odors, smoke or loss of engine power, could indicate that the emission control system is not working properly.

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Exhaust leaks may result in entry of harmful and potentially lethal fumes into the passenger compartment.

Do not make any unauthorized changes to your vehicle or engine. By law, vehicle owners and anyone who manufactures, repairs, services, sells, leases, trades vehicles, or supervises a fleet of vehicles are not permitted to intentionally remove an emission control device or prevent it from working. Information about your vehicle's emission system is on the Vehicle Emission Control Information Decal located on or near the engine. This decal identifies engine displacement and gives some tune up specifications.

Please consult your "Warranty Guide" for complete emission warranty information.

Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing

In some localities, it may be a legal requirement to pass an I/M test of the on-board diagnostics system. If your 📋 indicator is on, refer to the description in the Warning lights and chimes section of the Instrument Cluster chapter. Your vehicle may not pass the I/M test with the 📋 indicator on.

Maintenance and Specifications

If the vehicle's powertrain system or its battery has just been serviced, the on-board diagnostics system is reset to a “not ready for I/M test” condition. To ready the on-board diagnostics system for I/M testing, a minimum of 30 minutes of city and highway driving is necessary as described below:

  • First, at least 10 minutes of driving on an expressway or highway.
  • Next, at least 20 minutes driving in stop-and-go, city-type traffic with at least four idle periods.

Allow the vehicle to sit for at least eight hours without starting the engine. Then, start the engine and complete the above driving cycle. The engine must warm up to its normal operating temperature. Once started, do not turn off the engine until the above driving cycle is complete.

CHECKING AND ADDING POWER STEERING FLUID

Check the power steering fluid. Refer to the scheduled maintenance guide for the service interval schedules. If adding fluid is necessary, use only MERCON® ATF.

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natural_image Technical line drawing of a mechanical assembly with no visible text or symbols
  1. Start the engine and let it run until it reaches normal operating temperature (the engine coolant temperature gauge indicator will be near the center of the normal area between H and C).
  2. While the engine idles, turn the steering wheel left and right several times.
  3. Turn the engine off.

Maintenance and Specifications

  1. Check the fluid level in the reservoir. It should be between the MIN and MAX lines. Do not add fluid if the level is within this range.

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natural_image Technical line drawing of a mechanical device with no visible text or symbols

Note: The 3.0L V6 Vulcan engine may have a different type power steering fluid reservoir that uses a dipstick to check fluid level. With this application, the fluid should be between the arrows in the FULL HOT range. Do not add fluid if the level is within this range. Refer to Identifying Components in the Engine Compartment for different reservoir locations in this chapter.

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natural_image Technical line drawing of a mechanical component with a cylindrical housing and a coiled spring-like structure (no text or symbols)
  1. If the fluid is low, add fluid in small amounts, continuously checking the level until it reaches the range between the MIN and MAX lines(FULL HOT range with dipstick type reservoir). Be sure to put the cap back on the reservoir.

BRAKE FLUID Ⓞ

Checking and adding brake fluid

Brake fluid should be checked and refilled as needed. Refer to the scheduled maintenance guide for the service interval schedules.

  1. Clean the reservoir cap before removal to prevent dirt or water from entering the reservoir.

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natural_image Technical line drawing of an internal engine compartment with no visible text or symbols

Maintenance and Specifications

  1. Visually inspect the fluid level.
  2. If necessary, add brake fluid from a clean un-opened container until the level reaches MAX. Do not fill above this line.
  3. Use only a DOT 3 brake fluid certified to meet Ford specification ESA-M6C25-A. Refer to Lubricant specifications in this chapter.

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Brake fluid is toxic. If brake fluid contacts the eyes, flush eyes with running water for 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if ion persists. If taken internally, drink water and induce vomiting. medical attention immediately.

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If you use a brake fluid that is not DOT 3, you will cause permanent damage to your brakes.

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Do not let the reservoir for the master cylinder run dry. This may cause the brakes to fail.

TRANSMISSION FLUID

Checking automatic transmission fluid

Refer to your scheduled maintenance guide for scheduled intervals for fluid checks and changes. Your transaxle does not consume fluid. However, the fluid level should be checked if the transaxle is not working properly, i.e., if the transaxle slips or shifts slowly or if you notice some sign of fluid leakage.

Automatic transmission fluid expands when warmed. To obtain an accurate fluid check, drive the vehicle until it is warmed up (approximately 30 km [20 miles]). If your vehicle has been operated for an extended period at high speeds, in city traffic during hot weather or pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be turned off for about 30 minutes to allow fluid to cool before checking.

  1. Drive the vehicle 30 km (20 miles) or until it reaches normal operating temperature.

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Maintenance and Specifications

  1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
  2. With the parking brake engaged and your foot on the brake pedal, start the engine and move the gearshift lever through all of the gear ranges. Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage.
  3. Latch the gearshift lever in P (Park) and leave the engine running.
  4. Remove the dipstick, wiping it clean with a clean, dry lint free rag. If necessary, refer to Identifying components in the engine compartment in this chapter for the location of the dipstick.
  5. Install the dipstick making sure it is fully seated in the filler tube.
  6. Remove the dipstick and inspect the fluid level. The fluid should be in the designated areas for normal operating temperature.

Low fluid level

Do not drive the vehicle if the fluid level is at the bottom of the dipstick and the outside temperatures are above 10^ C ( 50^ F).

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Correct fluid level

The transmission fluid should be checked at normal operating temperatures 66^ C- 77^ C ( 150^ F- 170^ F) on a level surface. The normal operating temperature can be reached after approximately 30 km (20 miles) of driving.

The transmission fluid should be in this range if at normal operating temperature (66°C-77°C [150°F-170°F]).

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High fluid level

Fluid levels above the safe range may result in transaxle failure. An overfill condition of transmission fluid may cause shift and/or engagement concerns and/or possible damage.

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High fluid levels can be caused by an overheating condition.

Maintenance and Specifications

Adjusting automatic transmission fluid levels

Before adding any fluid, make sure the correct type is used. The type of fluid used is normally indicated on the dipstick and also in the Lubricant specifications section in this chapter.

Use of a non-approved automatic transmission fluid may cause internal transaxle component damage.

If necessary, add fluid in 250 mL (1/2 pint) increments through the filler tube until the level is correct.

If an overfill occurs, excess fluid should be removed by a qualified technician.

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An overfill condition of transmission fluid may cause shift and/or engagement concerns and/or possible damage.

INFORMATION ABOUT UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADING

New vehicles are fitted with tires that have a rating on them called Tire Quality Grades. The Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example:

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natural_image Diagram of a car tire with a blue arrow pointing to the wheel rim (no text or symbols)

• Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A

These Tire Quality Grades are determined by standards that the United States Department of Transportation has set.

Tire Quality Grades apply to new pneumatic tires for use on passenger cars. They do not apply to deep tread, winter-type snow tires, space-saver or temporary use spare tires, tires with nominal rim diameters of 10 to 12 inches or limited production tires as defined in Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 575.104(c)(2).

U.S. Department of Transportation-Tire quality grades: The U.S. Department of Transportation requires Ford to give you the following information about tire grades exactly as the government has written it.

Maintenance and Specifications

Treadwear

The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one-half (1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices, and differences in road characteristics and climate.

Traction AA A B C

The traction grades, from highest to lowest are AA, A, B, and C. The grades represent the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance.

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The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include eration, cornering, hydroplaning or peak traction characteristics.

Temperature A B C

The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire's resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger 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 than the minimum required by law.

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The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, inflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in inflation, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.

Maintenance and Specifications

SERVICING YOUR TIRES

Checking the tire pressure

  • Use an accurate tire pressure gauge.
  • Check the tire pressure when tires are cold, after the vehicle has been parked for at least one hour or has been driven less than 5 km (3 miles).
  • Adjust tire pressure to recommended specifications found on the Certification Label located on the driver's door panel.

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Improperly inflated tires can affect vehicle handling and can fail suddenly, possibly resulting in loss of vehicle control.

Tire rotation

Because your vehicle's tires perform different jobs, they often wear differently. To make sure your tires wear evenly and last longer, rotate them as indicated in the scheduled maintenance guide. If you notice that the tires wear unevenly, have them checked.

- Four tire rotation

Mercury Sable (2002) - Tire rotation - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    A["Rectangular Block 1"] --> B["Rectangular Block 2"]
    B --> C["Rectangular Block 3"]
    C --> D["Rectangular Block 4"]
    D --> A
    A -.-> E["Blue Arrow"]
    B -.-> F["Blue Arrow"]
    C -.-> G["Blue Arrow"]
    D -.-> H["Blue Arrow"]

Maintenance and Specifications

Replacing the tires

Replace the tires when the wear band is visible through the tire treads.

Mercury Sable (2002) - Replacing the tires - 1

natural_image Diagram of concentric curved layers with hatched patterns and a blue dashed arrow indicating direction (no text or symbols)

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When replacing full size tires, never mix radial bias-belted, or bias-type tires. Use only the tire sizes that are listed on the

Certification or Tire Label. Make sure that all tires are the same size, speed rating, and load-carrying capacity. Use only the tire combinations recommended on the label. If you do not follow these precautions, your vehicle may not drive properly and safely.

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Make sure that all replacement tires are of the same size, type, load-carrying capacity and tread design (e.g., "All Terrain",

"Touring", etc.), as originally offered by Ford.

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Failure to follow these precautions may adversely affect the handling of the vehicle and make it easier for the driver to lose oil and roll over.

Tires that are larger or smaller than your vehicle's original tires may also affect the accuracy of your speedometer.

SNOW TIRES AND CHAINS

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Snow tires must be the same size and grade as the tires you currently have on your vehicle.

The tires on your vehicle have all weather treads to provide traction in rain and snow. However, in some climates, you may need to use snow tires and chains. If you need to use snow tires and chains, it is

Maintenance and Specifications

recommended that steel wheels are used of the same size and specifications as those originally installed.

Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and chains:

  • Use only cable type chains offered by Ford as an accessory or equivalent. SAE class "S" or other conventional link type chains may cause damage to the vehicle's wheel house and/or body.
  • Install cable chains securely, verifying that the cables do not touch any wiring, brake lines or fuel lines.
  • Drive cautiously. If you hear the cables rub or bang against your vehicle, stop and re-tighten the cables. If this does not work, remove the cables to prevent damage to your vehicle.
  • If possible, avoid fully loading your vehicle.
  • Remove the tire cables when they are no longer needed. Do not use tire cables on dry roads.
  • The suspension insulation and bumpers will help prevent vehicle damage. Do not remove these components from your vehicle when using snow tires and cables.
  • Do not exceed 48 km/h (30 mph) with tire cables on your vehicle.

MOTORCRAFT PART NUMBERS

Component 3.0L V6 Vulcan engine3.0L FFV V6 engine3.0L DOHC V6 Duratec engine
Air filter element1FA-1683 FA-1683FA-1683
Fuel filter FG-1006 FG-1006 FG-1006
Battery (standard)BXT-36R BXT-36RBXT-36R
Battery (optional)BXT-36R N/A N/A
Oil filter FL-400S FL-400-S FL-820-S
PCV valve EV-228EV-228 EV-243
Spark plugs2AWSF-32PP3AGSF-22PP3AWSF-32F

^1 Do not use oil-impregnated air filter elements. Failure to use the correct air filter element may result in severe engine damage. The customer

Maintenance and Specifications

warranty may be voided for any damage to the engine if the correct air filter element is not used.

^2 Refer to Vehicle Emissions Control Information (VECI) decal for spark plug gap information.
^3 If a spark plug is to be removed for inspection, it must be reinstalled in the same cylinder. If a spark plug needs to be replaced, use only spark plugs with the service part number suffix letter as shown on the engine decal.

REFILL CAPACITIES

Fluid Ford PartNameApplication Capacity
Brake fluid MotorcraftHighPerformanceDOT 3 MotorVehicle BrakeFluidAll Fill to line onreservoir
Engine coolant1MotorcraftPremiumEngine Coolant(green-colored)orMotorcraftPremium GoldEngine Coolant(yellow-colored)3.0L V6 Vulcanengine11.0L(11.6 quarts)
3.0L V6 Duratecengine10.0L(10.6 quarts)
Engine oil(includes filter change)MotorcraftSAE 5W-20Super PremiumMotor Oil3.0L V6 Vulcanengine4.25L (4.5 quarts)
3.0L V6 Duratecengine5.2L (5.5 quarts)
Fuel tank capacityN/A All vehicles68.1L(18.0 gallons)

Maintenance and Specifications

Fluid Ford PartNameApplication Capacity
Power steering fluidMotorcraft MERCON® ATF3.0L V6 Vulcan engineFill to line on reservoir or Keep in FULL range on dipstick
3.0L V6 Duratec engineFill to line on reservoir
Automatic transaxle - 4F50NMotorcraft MERCON®V ATF3.0L V6 Vulcan engine12.8L (13.5 quarts)
3.0L V6 Duratec engine12.7L (13.4 quarts)
Automatic transaxle - AX4SMotorcraft MERCON®V ATF3.0L V6 Vulcan engine11.6L (12.2 quarts)
Windshield washer fluid - FrontUltra-Clear Windshield Washer ConcentrateAll 2.8L (94.7 oz.)
Windshield washer fluid - RearUltra-Clear Windshield Washer ConcentrateWagon 1.8L (60.9 oz.)

^1 Add the coolant type originally equipped in your vehicle.

Maintenance and Specifications

LUBRICANT SPECIFICATIONS

ItemsFord Part Name or equivalentFord Part NumberFord Specification
Brake fluid Motorcraft High Performance DOT 3 Motor Vehicle Brake FluidPM-1 ESA-M6C25-A and DOT 3
Door latch, hood latch, auxiliary hood latch, seat tracks, trunk and liftgate latchesMulti-Purpose GreaseXG-4 or F5AZ-19G209-AAESR-M1C159-A
Lock cylinders Penetrating and Lock LubricantMotorcraft XL-1 none
Automatic transaxle (AX4S and 4F50N ^1 )Motorcraft MERCON®V ATFXT-5-QMMERCON®V
Engine oil Motorcraft SAE 5W-20 Super Premium Motor OilXO-5W20-QSP WSSS-M2C153-H and API Certification Mark
Constant velocity jointsCV Joint Grease (High Temp.)XG-5 WSS-M2C258-A1
Engine coolant Motorcraft Premium Engine Coolant (green-colored)VC-4-A (US) or CXC-10 (Canada)ESE-M97B44-A
VC-7-A WSS-M97B51-A1

Maintenance and Specifications

ItemsFord Part Name or equivalentFord Part NumberFord Specification
Power steering fluidMotorcraft MERCON® ATFXT-2-QDX MERCON®
Windshield washer fluidUltra-clear Windshield Washer ConcentrateC9AZ-19550-AC ESR-M17P5-A

^1 Ensure the correct automatic transmission fluid is used. Transmission fluid requirements are indicated on the dipstick or on the dipstick handle. Check the container to verify the fluid being added is of the correct type. Refer to your scheduled maintenance guide to determine the correct service interval.

Some transmission fluids may be labeled as dual usage, such as MERCON ^® and MERCON ^® V. These dual usage fluids are not to be used in an automatic transmission that requires use of the MERCON ^® type fluid. However, these dual usage fluids may be used in transmissions that require the MERCON ^® V type fluid.

MERCON ^® and MERCON ^® V type fluids are not interchangeable. DO NOT mix MERCON ^® and MERCON ^® V. Use of a transmission fluid that indicates dual usage (MERCON ^® and MERCON ^® V) in an automatic transmission application requiring MERCON ^® may cause transmission damage. Use of any fluid other than the recommended fluid may cause transmission damage.

Maintenance and Specifications

ENGINE DATA

Engine 3.0L V6Vulcan engine3.0L FFV V6 engine3.0L DOHC V6 Duratec engine
Cubic inches 182182 183
Required fuel 87octane 87 octane orEthanol (E 85)87 octane
Firing order 1-4-25-3-6 1-4-2-5-3-6-4-2-5-3-6
Spark plug gap 1.07-1.17 mm(0.042-0.046 inch)1.07-1.17 mm(0.042-0.046 inch)1.3-1.4 mm(0.052-0.056 inch)
Ignition system EDISDIS EDIS EDIS
Compression ratio9.7:1 9.7:1 10.0:1

VEHICLE DIMENSIONS

Vehicle dimensionsSedan mm (in)Wagon mm (in)
(1) Overall length 5 075(199.9)5 069.8 (197.3)
(2) Overall width 1 854(73.0)1 854.2 (73.0)
(3) Overall height 1 463(57.6)1 468 (57.8)
(4) Wheelbase2 757(108.5) 2 757 (108.5)
(5) Track - Front1 566(61.6) 1 566 (61.6)
(5) Track - Rear1 577.0(62.1) 1 570 (61.8)

Maintenance and Specifications
Mercury Sable (2002) - Maintenance and Specifications - 1

Maintenance and Specifications

4 1

IDENTIFYING YOUR VEHICLE

Certification label

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Regulations require that a Certification label be affixed to a vehicle and prescribe where the Certification label may be located.

The Certification label is located on the front door latch pillar on the driver's side.

MFD. BY FORD MOTOR CO. IN U.S.A.

DATE: XXXXX GVWR:XXXXX LB/XXXXX KG

FGAWR: XXXXXX/XXXXXXXX RGAWR: XXXXXXX/XXXXXXXX

THIS VEHICLE CONFORMS TO ALL APPLICABLE FEDERAL

MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARDS IN EFFECT ON THE

DATE OF MANUFACTURE SHOWN ABOVE.

VIN:XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX TYPE:XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Mercury Sable (2002) - BY FORD MOTOR CO. IN U.S.A. - 1

MAXIMUM LOAD=OCCUPANTS + LUGGAGE=XXXKG/XXXXLB

OCCUPANTS: X TOTAL X FR X 2ND X RR OCCUPANTS LUGGAGE

XX XXXKG/XXXXLB

TIRE: XXXX/XXXXXXX

PRESSURE (FR) XXX kPa/ XX PSI COLD

PRESSURE (RR) XXX kPa/ XX PSI COLD

TRAILER TOWING - SEE OWNER GUIDE

Maintenance and Specifications

Vehicle identification number

The vehicle identification number is attached to a metal tag and is located on the driver side instrument panel. (Please note that in the graphic XXXX is representative of your vehicle identification number.)

XXXXXXXXXXXXXX

  1. World manufacturer identifier
  2. Brake type and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR)
  3. Vehicle line, series, body type
  4. Engine type
  5. Check digit
  6. Model year
  7. Assembly plant
  8. Production sequence number

Mercury Sable (2002) - Vehicle identification number - 2

The engine number (the last eight numbers of the vehicle identification number) is stamped on the engine block and transaxle.

Accessories

FORD ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR VEHICLE

A wide selection of genuine Ford accessories are available for your vehicle through your local authorized Ford, Lincoln Mercury or Ford of Canada dealer. These quality accessories have been specifically engineered to fulfill your automotive needs; they are custom designed to complement the style and aerodynamic appearance of your vehicle. In addition, each accessory is made from high quality materials and meets or exceeds Ford's rigorous engineering and safety specifications. Ford Motor Company will repair or replace any properly dealer-installed Ford accessory found to be defective in factory-supplied materials or workmanship during the warranty period, as well as any component damaged by the defective accessory. The accessory will be warranted for whichever provides you the greatest benefit:

  • 12 months or 20 000 km (12 000 miles) (whichever occurs first), or
  • The remainder of your new vehicle limited warranty.

This means that genuine Ford accessories purchased along with your new vehicle and installed by the dealer are covered for the full length of your New Vehicle's Limited Warranty — 3 years or 60 000 km (36 000 miles) (whichever occurs first). Contact your dealer for details and a copy of the warranty.

Not all accessories are available for all models.

Vehicle Security

Remote keyless entry

Styled wheel locks

Vehicle security systems

Comfort and convenience

Cabin air filtration

Cargo nets

Cargo organizers

Cargo shades (Wagon only)

Cargo tray

Engine block heaters

Remote start

Accessories

Travel equipment

Electrochromic inside mirror with compass

Electrochromic inside mirror with compass and temperature

Emergency kit

Factory luggage rack adaptors

First aid kit

Fog lamps

Framed luggage carrier

HomeLink®

Removable luggage rack

Removable luggage rack adapters

Soft luggage cover

Speed control

Track rider bars

Protection and appearance equipment

Air bag anti-theft locks

Car covers

Cargo liner

Carpet floor mats

Door edge guards

Flat splash guards

Front end covers (full)

Locking gas cap

Molded splash guards

All weather vinyl mats

Pet divider (Wagon only)

Rear decklid spoilers

Styled hood deflector

Styled side air deflectors

Universal floor mats

Accessories

For maximum vehicle performance, keep the following information in mind when adding accessories or equipment to your vehicle:

  • When 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 (GVWR or GAWR as indicated on the Safety compliance certification label). Consult your dealer for specific weight information.
  • The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Canadian Radio Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) regulate the use of mobile communications systems - such as two-way radios, telephones and theft alarms - that are equipped with radio transmitters. Any such equipment installed in your vehicle should comply with FCC or CRTC regulations and should be installed only by a qualified service technician.
  • Mobile communications systems may harm the operation of your vehicle, particularly if they are not properly designed for automotive use or are not properly installed. When operated, such systems may cause the engine to stumble or stall or cause the transmission to be damaged or operate improperly. In addition, such systems may be damaged or their performance may be affected by operating your vehicle. (Citizens band [CB] transceivers, garage door openers and other transmitters with outputs of five watts or less will not ordinarily affect your vehicle's operation.)
  • Ford cannot assume responsibility for any adverse effects or damage that may result from the use of such equipment.

Index

A

ABS (see Brakes) 142

Accessory delay 67

Air bag supplemental restraint

system 119–120, 124

and child safety seats .....122

description 120, 124

disposal 126

driver air bag .....120, 123, 125

indicator light 13, 123

operation .....120, 123, 125

passenger air bag ...120, 123, 125

side air bag 124

Air cleaner filter 230

Air conditioning ....39

manual heating and air

conditioning system ....36

Air filter, cabin 46

Antifreeze

(see Engine coolant) .....205

Anti-lock brake system

(see Brakes) 142

Anti-theft system 95

arming the system .....96

disarming a triggered system ..97

warning light 15

Automatic transaxle .....146

driving with 149

fluid, adding 224

fluid, checking 224

fluid, refill capacities ......231

fluid, specification .....235

Auxiliary power point .....66

Axle

lubricant specifications .....233

B

Battery 203

acid, treating emergencies .....203

charging system warning

light 13

jumping a disabled battery ....171

maintenance-free 203

replacement, specifications ...230

servicing 203

BeltMinder 115

Brakes 141

anti-lock 142

anti-lock brake system

(ABS) warning light .....12, 143

brake warning light 12

fluid, checking and adding ....223

fluid, refill capacities .....231

fluid, specifications .....233, 235

lubricant specifications ..233, 235

parking 143

pedals (see Power

adjustable foot pedals) .....71, 76

shift interlock 146

Break-in period ......6

Bulbs 52

C

Capacities for refilling fluids ....231

Cargo area shade ....80

Cargo cover 79

Cargo net 79

CD changer 31

Cellular telephone (see your

Cellular Phone Guide) .....76

Certification Label 237

Index

Changing a tire ....167

Child safety restraints ....127 child safety belts ....127

Child safety seats ....128
attaching with tether straps ..132
in front seat ....129
in rear seat ....129, 132

Cleaning your vehicle engine compartment .....189 exterior .....193 instrument cluster lens .....192 instrument panel .....191 interior .....192 plastic parts .....190 safety belts .....193 washing .....187 waxing .....187 wheels .....188 windows .....193 wiper blades .....191 woodtone trim .....193

Climate control (see Air conditioning or Heating) .....36, 39 Clock .....22, 29

Compass, electronic ....68
calibration ....69
set zone adjustment ....69

Console ....75 Controls power seat ....101

Coolant checking and adding ....205 refill capacities ....209, 231 specifications ....233, 235

Cruise control (see Speed control) ....72 Customer Assistance ....158

Ford accessories for your vehicle ....193
Ford Extended Service Plan ....179
Getting assistance outside the U.S. and Canada ....183
Getting roadside assistance ..158
Getting the service you need ....177
Ordering additional owner's literature ....184
The Dispute Settlement Board ....180
Utilizing the Mediation/Arbitration Program ....183

D

Daytime running lamps (see Lamps) 47

Defrost rear window ....46

Dipstick automatic transmission fluid ....224 engine oil ....200

Doors door ajar warning .....14 lubricant specifications .....233

Driving under special conditions through water ....152

E

Emergencies, roadside jump-starting .....171 Emission control system .....220

Index

Engine 235

check engine/service

engine soon light 10

cleaning 189

coolant 205

idle speed control ....203

lubrication

specifications ......233, 235

refill capacities 231

service points ......197–198

starting after a collision .....159

Engine block heater .....140

Engine oil 200

checking and adding .....200

dipstick 200

filter, specifications .....202, 230

recommendations ......202

refill capacities 231

specifications ......233, 235

Exhaust fumes ....140

F

Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV) ....210

Floor mats 77

Fluid capacities 231

Foglamps 47

Fuel 210

calculating fuel economy .....217

cap 11,213

capacity 231

choosing the right fuel .....214

comparisons with EPA fuel economy estimates .....220

detergent in fuel 216

filling your vehicle with fuel 210, 213, 217

filter, specifications .....217, 230

fuel pump shut-off switch .....159

gauge 17

improving fuel economy .....217

low fuel warning light .....14

octane rating ......215, 235

quality 215

running out of fuel 216

safety information relating to automotive fuels ....210

Fuses 161-162

G

Gas cap (see Fuel cap) .....11, 213

Gas mileage

(see Fuel economy) ......217

Gauges 16

engine coolant temperature

gauge 16

fuel gauge 17

odometer 17

speedometer 17

tachometer 18

trip odometer .....18

GAWR (Gross Axle

Weight Rating) 152

definition 152

driving with a heavy load .....152

location 152

GVWR (Gross Vehicle

Weight Rating) 152

calculating ....152

definition 152

driving with a heavy load .....152

location 152

H

Hazard flashers ....159

Head restraints .....99

Index

Headlamps 47

aiming 49

autolamp system 47

bulb specifications ....52

daytime running lights .....47

flash to pass 48

high beam 14, 48

replacing bulbs ....54

turning on and off 47

warning chime ....15

Heating

heating and air conditioning system ....36, 39

Hood 196

I

Ignition 136,235

Infant seats

(see Safety seats) ......128

Inspection/maintenance (I/M) testing 221

Instrument panel

cleaning 191

cluster 10, 192

lighting up panel and interior 48

J

Jack 167

positioning 167

storage 167

Jump-starting your vehicle .....171

K

Keyless entry system ....89

autolock 92

keypad 89

locking and unlocking doors ....91

programming entry code .....90

Keys 92-94

key in ignition chime .....15

positions of the ignition .....136

L

Lamps

autolamp system 47

bulb replacement

specifications chart ....52

cargo lamps 48

daytime running light .....47

fog lamps 47

headlamps 47

headlamps, flash to pass .....48

instrument panel, dimming .....48

interior lamps ....51–52, 54

replacing

bulbs ....52, 54, 56–59, 61

Lane change indicator

(see Turn signal) ....50

Liftgate 78, 86

Lights, warning and indicator ....10

air bag 15

anti-lock brakes (ABS) ....12, 143

anti-theft 15

brake 12

charging system 13

check coolant 14

cruise indicator 14

door ajar 14

fuel cap light 11

high beam 14

low coolant ....13

low fuel 14

oil pressure 13

safety belt 12

Index

service engine soon ....10
speed control 75
traction control active .....13
turn signal indicator .....14

Load limits ....152
GAWR 152
GVWR 152
trailer towing ....152

Locks autolock ....92
childproof 83
doors 83

Lubricant specifications ...233, 235

Lumbar support, seats .....99

M

Mirrors 65
automatic dimming rearview mirror ....68
heated 71
side view mirrors (power) .....70

Moon roof 75

Motorcraft parts .....217, 230

0

Octane rating 215

Odometer 17

Oil (see Engine oil) .....200

Overdrive ....147

P

Panic alarm feature, remote entry system ....86

Parking brake ....143

Parts (see Motorcraft parts) ....230

Pedals (see Power adjustable foot pedals) 71

Power distribution box (see Fuses) ....164

Power door locks ....83

Power mirrors 70

Power steering ....146
fluid, checking and adding ....222
fluid, refill capacity .....231
fluid, specifications .....233, 235

Power Windows ......66

R

Radio reception 35

Rear window defroster .....46

Relays 161, 166

Remote entry system .....85–86

illuminated entry .....88–89

locking/unlocking doors ....83, 85–86

opening the trunk .....86

panic alarm ....86 replacement/additional

transmitters 87

replacing the batteries .....87

Roadside assistance ....158

Roof rack 82

S

Safety belts (see Safety restraints) ....15, 104, 106–110, 112

Safety defects, reporting .....186

Index

Safety

restraints ...104, 106–110, 112–113

belt minder 115

cleaning the safety

belts 118, 193

extension assembly .....118

for adults 107–110

for children 126–127

lap belt 112

warning light and

chime .....12, 15, 114–115

Safety seats for children .....128

Seat belts

(see Safety restraints) .....104

Seats 99

child safety seats ......128

cleaning 192

SecuriLock passive

anti-theft system .....92–94

Servicing your vehicle .....195

Spare tire

(see Changing the Tire) .....167

Spark plugs,

specifications 230, 235

Specification chart,

lubricants 233, 235

Speed control 72

Speedometer 17

Starting your

vehicle 136–137, 139

jump starting .....171

Steering wheel

controls 65,72

tilting 65

T

Tachometer 18

Tires 167, 226–228

changing 167–168

checking the pressure .....228

replacing 229

rotating 228

snow tires and chains .....229

tire grades 227

treadwear 227

Towing 154

recreational towing 157

trailer towing 154

wrecker 176

Traction control ....144

active light 13

Transaxle

automatic operation .....146

fluid, refill capacities .....231

lubricant specifications .....235

Transmission

fluid, checking and adding

(automatic) 224

lubricant specifications .....233

Trip odometer ....18

Trunk 79, 81, 84, 86

remote release 78

Turn signal 14,50

V

Vehicle dimensions .....235

Vehicle Identification Number

(VIN) 238

Vehicle loading 152

Ventilating your vehicle .....141

Index

W

Warning chimes .....15, 144

Warning lights (see Lights) .....10

Washer fluid 199

Water, Driving through .....152

Windows

power 66

rear wiper/washer 63

Windshield washer fluid and wipers

checking and adding fluid .....199

checking and cleaning .....64–65

liftgate reservoir .....200

operation 63

replacing wiper blades ......64

Wrecker towing ....176

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Product information

Brand : Mercury

Model : Sable (2002)

Category : Car