![FORD ESCORT 1996 7.G Owners Manual 231 [DR08700(ALL)06/93]
For cruising, you should upshift at the following
speeds:
[DR08800(ALL)06/93]
ten pica chart:0070155-A[DR09400(ALL)08/95]
Upshift indicator light (If equipped)
[DR09500(ALL)09/ FORD ESCORT 1996 7.G Owners Manual 231 [DR08700(ALL)06/93]
For cruising, you should upshift at the following
speeds:
[DR08800(ALL)06/93]
ten pica chart:0070155-A[DR09400(ALL)08/95]
Upshift indicator light (If equipped)
[DR09500(ALL)09/](/manual-img/11/4888/w960_4888-230.png)
231 [DR08700(ALL)06/93]
For cruising, you should upshift at the following
speeds:
[DR08800(ALL)06/93]
ten pica chart:0070155-A[DR09400(ALL)08/95]
Upshift indicator light (If equipped)
[DR09500(ALL)09/93]
After the engine warms up, the upshift light will
come on if you could get better fuel economy by
shifting to the next higher gear. The vehicle will
not be harmed if the transaxle is not shifted
when the light comes on, but the vehicle will
use more fuel.
[DR09600(ALL)09/93]
The shift indicator light can be ignored when
you are downshifting, on steep hills, using the
engine to ºbrakeª the vehicle, or need more
power for a difficult acceleration.
%*
[DR09700(ALL)05/95]
Downshifting
*
[DR09800(ALL)03/95]
When you slow down or climb a steep hill,
always downshift before the engine starts to lose
power. Downshifting reduces the chance of
stalling and gives your vehicle better acceleration
to increase speed again.
*
[DR09900(ALL)03/95]
When you drive down steep hills, downshifting
helps you keep a safe speed and helps prevent
unnecessary wear on the brakes.
File:10ctdre.ex
Update:Tue Sep 19 14:53:34 1995
![FORD ESCORT 1996 7.G Owners Manual 233
*
[DR16800(ALL)05/95]
If your vehicle does not have anti-lock brakes,
extreme braking can make the wheels lock and
slide, causing you to lose control of the steering.
If the wheels lock, release t FORD ESCORT 1996 7.G Owners Manual 233
*
[DR16800(ALL)05/95]
If your vehicle does not have anti-lock brakes,
extreme braking can make the wheels lock and
slide, causing you to lose control of the steering.
If the wheels lock, release t](/manual-img/11/4888/w960_4888-232.png)
233
*
[DR16800(ALL)05/95]
If your vehicle does not have anti-lock brakes,
extreme braking can make the wheels lock and
slide, causing you to lose control of the steering.
If the wheels lock, release the brake pedal and
repeat the ºsqueezeª technique.
*
[DR16900(ALL)05/95]
Do not drive with your foot resting on the brake
pedal; you will wear out the linings and increase
your vehicle's stopping distance. Brake rotor
damage may also eventually occur.
*
[DR17000(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
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 and become less effective.
*
[DR17100(ALL)02/95]
Occasional brake squeal during light to moderate
stops does not affect the function of the brake
system and is normal. However, if the squeal
becomes annoyingly loud or increases
significantly in frequency of occurrence, return
the vehicle to your dealer for inspection.
[DR17200(ALL)09/89]
The high-mount brakelamp will light when you
apply the brakes.
[DR17300(ALL)05/95]Anti-lock Brake System
(If equipped)
*
[DR17325(ALL)11/94]
Your vehicle may come with the optional
anti-lock brake system. Whenever your wheels
start to lock (which could result in a skid) the
anti-lock brake system prevents the lock-up by
automatically releasing and re-applying the
brakes. The brake pedal will pulsate as a result
of the automatic releasing and re-applying of the
brakes. In spite of this improvement in braking
performance, you should continue to be cautious
in all hazardous driving situations, especially
when driving on hazardous road surfaces. Even
File:10ctdre.ex
Update:Tue Sep 19 14:53:34 1995

234with your anti-lock brake system, you may not
have total control of your vehicle when braking
on roads with loose surfaces such as snow or
gravel, holes in the pavement, or alternating
patches of slippery and dry surfaces.
[DR17350(ALL)04/94]
Each time you turn the ignition key to the ON
position, the anti-lock brake system will function
through one test cycle. When this happens, the
anti-lock light (ABS) will come on for up to six
seconds. If the light stays on longer than six
seconds, shut off the engine and restart. If it
remains on, it means the anti-lock brake system
is disabled and should be serviced immediately
to restore the benefits of the anti-lock feature.
Normal braking is not affected unless the red
brake warning light is also lit.
[DR17400(ALL)02/94]
The anti-lock brake system has self-check
capabilities. As described above, the system
turns on the anti-lock light each time you start
your engine. After the engine is started and the
anti-lock light turns off, the system performs
another test the first time the vehicle reaches
7 mph (11 km/h). The system turns on the ABS
pump motor for approximately 1/2 second. At
this time, a mechanical noise may be heard. This
is a normal part of the self-check feature. If a
malfunction is found during this check the
anti-lock light will come on.
*
[DR17500(ALL)08/95]
Ford Motor Company has not found any
negative effects of mobile radio transmitting
equipment installed on vehicles with the ABS
system providing that the radio is installed
according to the radio manufacturer's
instructions. However, if you have had a mobile
radio transmitter installed and the ABS light
comes on (at any time other than immediately
File:10ctdre.ex
Update:Tue Sep 19 14:53:34 1995
![FORD ESCORT 1996 7.G Owners Manual 236
*
[DR18400(ALL)06/95]
RWARNING
Always set the parking brake fully and
make sure that the gearshift is securely
latched in P (Park) (automatic transaxle) or
in 1 (First) (manual transaxle).
*
[DR18 FORD ESCORT 1996 7.G Owners Manual 236
*
[DR18400(ALL)06/95]
RWARNING
Always set the parking brake fully and
make sure that the gearshift is securely
latched in P (Park) (automatic transaxle) or
in 1 (First) (manual transaxle).
*
[DR18](/manual-img/11/4888/w960_4888-235.png)
236
*
[DR18400(ALL)06/95]
RWARNING
Always set the parking brake fully and
make sure that the gearshift is securely
latched in P (Park) (automatic transaxle) or
in 1 (First) (manual transaxle).
*
[DR18475(ALL)06/95]
RWARNING
Never leave your vehicle unattended
while it is running.
*
[DR18600(ALL)03/95]
Always check the Brake Warning Light each
time you start your engine. Driving with the
parking brake on will cause the brakes to wear
out quickly and will reduce the fuel economy.
*
[DR18700(ALL)01/93]
RWARNING
If the parking brake is fully released, but
the Brake System light remains on, have
the brakes checked immediately. They
may not be working properly.
*
[DR18800(ALL)11/91]
RWARNING
To prevent personal injury, do not release
the parking brake while outside the
vehicle.
*
[DR19000(ALL)06/95]
The parking brake is not designed to stop a
moving vehicle, but you can use the parking
brake to stop your vehicle in an emergency if
the normal brakes fail. However, since the
parking brake applies only the rear brakes, the
stopping distance will increase greatly and the
handling of your vehicle will be adversely
affected.
File:10ctdre.ex
Update:Tue Sep 19 14:53:34 1995
![FORD ESCORT 1996 7.G Owners Manual 239
*
[DR20750(ALL)03/95]
RWARNING
If your vehicle has speed control, do not
use it on slippery roads. You could lose
control of your vehicle and could injure
someone.
*
[DR20800(ALL)01/95]
If you hav FORD ESCORT 1996 7.G Owners Manual 239
*
[DR20750(ALL)03/95]
RWARNING
If your vehicle has speed control, do not
use it on slippery roads. You could lose
control of your vehicle and could injure
someone.
*
[DR20800(ALL)01/95]
If you hav](/manual-img/11/4888/w960_4888-238.png)
239
*
[DR20750(ALL)03/95]
RWARNING
If your vehicle has speed control, do not
use it on slippery roads. You could lose
control of your vehicle and could injure
someone.
*
[DR20800(ALL)01/95]
If you have an automatic transaxle and your
vehicle gets stuck (for example, in mud or
snow), you may try to ºrockª it out of the spot.
Shift, in a steady rhythm, between forward and
reverse gears. While in each gear, press lightly
on the accelerator and release.
*
[DR20900(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Do not spin the wheels at over 35 mph
(55 km/h). The tires may fail and injure a
passenger or bystander.
*
[DR21000(ALL)03/95]
By moving the vehicle backward and forward,
you may gain enough momentum to move out
of the spot. Do not rock the vehicle for more
than a few minutes. This may overheat the
engine, damage the transaxle, or damage the
tires. If you are still stuck after a minute or two
of rocking, call for a tow truck.
%*
[DR21200(ALL)01/95]
High water
*
[DR21300(ALL)01/95]
Do not drive through flooded areas unless you
are sure that the water is below the bottom of
the wheel rims.
*
[DR21400(ALL)04/94]
If you must drive through high water, drive
slowly. You may have limited traction or wet
brakes, so allow extra stopping distance because
your vehicle will not stop as quickly as usual.
*
[DR21500(ALL)01/95]
After you drive through the standing water,
apply your brakes gently several times as your
vehicle moves slowly. This helps to dry the
brakes.
File:10ctdre.ex
Update:Tue Sep 19 14:53:34 1995
![FORD ESCORT 1996 7.G Owners Manual 244
*
[RE00710(ALL)07/95]
If the acid touches someones skin, eyes, or
clothing, immediately flush the area with water
for at least 15 minutes. If someone swallows the
acid, have him or her drink lots FORD ESCORT 1996 7.G Owners Manual 244
*
[RE00710(ALL)07/95]
If the acid touches someones skin, eyes, or
clothing, immediately flush the area with water
for at least 15 minutes. If someone swallows the
acid, have him or her drink lots](/manual-img/11/4888/w960_4888-243.png)
244
*
[RE00710(ALL)07/95]
If the acid touches someone's skin, eyes, or
clothing, immediately flush the area with water
for at least 15 minutes. If someone swallows the
acid, have him or her drink lots of milk or water
first, then Milk of Magnesia, a beaten egg, or
vegetable oil. Call a doctor immediately.
*
[RE00900(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
To avoid damage or injury, follow these
directions in the order they are given. If
in doubt, call for road service.
*
[RE01000(ALL)03/95]
Preparing Your Vehicle
*
[RE01100(ALL)03/95]
1. Your vehicle has a 12-volt starting system, so
you need to use a 12-volt jumper system.
You will damage your starting motor,
ignition system, and other electrical parts if
you connect them to a 24-volt power supply
(either two 12-volt batteries in series or a
24-volt generator set).
*
[RE01200(ALL)03/95]
2. Do not disconnect the battery of the disabled
vehicle. You could damage the vehicle's
electrical system.
*
[RE01300(ALL)04/95]
3. Park the booster vehicle close to the hood of
the disabled vehicle.Make sure the vehicles
do not touch each other.Set the parking
brake on both vehicles and stay clear of the
engine cooling fan and other moving parts.
*
[RE01400(ALL)03/95]
4. Check all battery terminals and remove any
excessive corrosion before you attach the
jumper cables.
*
[RE01600(ALL)02/95]
5. Turn on the heater fan in both vehicles.
Turning on the fan helps protect the
electrical system from voltage surges. Turn
off all other switches and lights in both
vehicles to prevent possible damage to either
vehicle's electrical systems.
File:12ctree.ex
Update:Tue Sep 19 14:55:16 1995
![FORD ESCORT 1996 7.G Owners Manual 295 %
*
[SV13710(ALL)03/95]
Engine oils with anSAE 5W-30viscosity are
PREFERREDfor your vehicle. They provide the
best engine performance, fuel economy and
engine protection for all climates down to-1 FORD ESCORT 1996 7.G Owners Manual 295 %
*
[SV13710(ALL)03/95]
Engine oils with anSAE 5W-30viscosity are
PREFERREDfor your vehicle. They provide the
best engine performance, fuel economy and
engine protection for all climates down to-1](/manual-img/11/4888/w960_4888-293.png)
295 %
*
[SV13710(ALL)03/95]
Engine oils with anSAE 5W-30viscosity are
PREFERREDfor your vehicle. They provide the
best engine performance, fuel economy and
engine protection for all climates down to-15ÊF
(-25ÊC).
%*
[SV13750(ALL)03/95]
Synthetic engine oils which are CERTIFIED and
of the preferred viscosity may be used in your
engine. The engine oil and oil filter must still be
changed according to the maintenance schedule.
%*
[SV13775(ALL)01/95]
Checking and Adding Engine Oil
*
[SV13800(ALL)03/95]
Since the proper amount of engine oil is
important for safe engine operation, check the oil
using the dipstick each time you put fuel in
your vehicle. Remember the engine must be off,
the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be
parked on level ground.
%*
[SV13900(ALL)04/95]
Checking the engine oil level:
*
[SV14000(ALL)02/95]
1. Turn the engine off after it has warmed up
and allow a few minutes for the engine oil
to drain back into the oil pan.
*
[SV14050(ALL)05/94]
2. Set the parking brake fully and make sure
that the gearshift is securely latched in P
(Park) (automatic transaxle) or 1 (First)
(manual transaxle).
*
[SV14100(ALL)02/95]
3. Open the hood. Protect yourself from engine
heat.
*
[SV14200(ALL)03/95]
4. Locate the engine oil dipstick (highlighted in
yellow) and carefully pull it out of the
engine.
*
[SV14300(ALL)01/95]
5. Wipe the dipstick clean and put it back into
position, making sure it is fully seated.
File:15ctsve.ex
Update:Tue Sep 19 14:37:50 1995
![FORD ESCORT 1996 7.G Owners Manual 317 %
*
[SV29425(ALL)04/95]
NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive
fluids in a responsible manner. Follow
your communitys standards for
disposing of these types of fluids. Call
your local recycling FORD ESCORT 1996 7.G Owners Manual 317 %
*
[SV29425(ALL)04/95]
NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive
fluids in a responsible manner. Follow
your communitys standards for
disposing of these types of fluids. Call
your local recycling](/manual-img/11/4888/w960_4888-315.png)
317 %
*
[SV29425(ALL)04/95]
NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive
fluids in a responsible manner. Follow
your community's standards for
disposing of these types of fluids. Call
your local recycling center to find out
about recycling automotive fluids.
*
[SV29800(ALL)01/89]
Manual Transaxle Fluid
[SV29900(ALL)01/92]
The lubricant level and quality should not
deteriorate under normal driving conditions.
However, you should have the fluid level
checked occasionally. If lubricant is required, see
Lubricant specificationsin the Index.
%*
[SV30200(ALL)02/95]
Brake Fluid
[SV30250(ALL)02/94]
If you have a manual transaxle, the brake fluid
reservoir in your vehicle includes the clutch
fluid reservoir.
*
[SV30300(ALL)03/95]
Under normal circumstances, your vehicle
should not use up brake fluid rapidly. However,
expect the level of the brake fluid to slowly fall
as you put more mileage on your vehicle and
the brake pads wear.
%*
[SV30400(ALL)06/93]
You should check the brake fluid at every
scheduled engine oil change, but be sure to
check it at least once a year. You can do this by
looking at the fluid level in the plastic reservoir
on the master cylinder. (SeeThe Engine Typesin
this chapter to locate the master cylinder.) The
fluid level should be at or near the MAX mark.
[SV30425(ALL)03/95]
If the brake fluid level is low, the brake warning
light in the instrument cluster will illuminate.
*
[SV30450(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Brake fluid is toxic.
File:15ctsve.ex
Update:Tue Sep 19 14:37:50 1995