Page 204 of 369
![FORD TAURUS 1996 Owners Manual 206
*
[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 t FORD TAURUS 1996 Owners Manual 206
*
[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 t](/manual-img/11/57830/w960_57830-203.png)
206
*
[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.
*
[DR19050(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.
%
*
[DR19100(ALL)01/95]
Driving Under Special Conditions
%*
[DR19200(ALL)01/95]
Tips for Safe Driving
*
[DR19300(ALL)07/95]
As with any new vehicle, yours may drive and
handle differently from your previous vehicle.
Use care until you become accustomed to its
various features and driving characteristics.
*
[DR19400(ALL)03/95]
Operate your vehicle within reasonable limits.
Sudden acceleration, deceleration, turning, or
combinations of these maneuvers can cause a
vehicle to behave differently than anticipated.
%*
[DR19750(ALL)01/95]
Driving in Bad Weather
%*
[DR19800(ALL)01/95]
Slippery roads
*
[DR19900(ALL)03/95]
On some slippery road surfaces, front-wheel
drive may provide better acceleration than
rear-wheel drive. However, this does not mean
that your vehicle can stop any faster or any
better than a vehicle with rear-wheel drive.
Exercise the same caution while driving on
slippery roads with your front-wheel drive
vehicle as you would with a rear-wheel drive
vehicle.
File:10fcdrt.ex
Update:Mon Jan 22 15:59:33 1996
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Page 205 of 369
![FORD TAURUS 1996 Owners Manual 207
*
[DR20100(ALL)03/95]
q
Do not quickly move the steering wheel
unless necessary.
*
[DR20200(ALL)01/95]
q
Drive slower than you normally would.
*
[DR20400(ALL)01/95]
q
Give your vehicle more distan FORD TAURUS 1996 Owners Manual 207
*
[DR20100(ALL)03/95]
q
Do not quickly move the steering wheel
unless necessary.
*
[DR20200(ALL)01/95]
q
Drive slower than you normally would.
*
[DR20400(ALL)01/95]
q
Give your vehicle more distan](/manual-img/11/57830/w960_57830-204.png)
207
*
[DR20100(ALL)03/95]
q
Do not quickly move the steering wheel
unless necessary.
*
[DR20200(ALL)01/95]
q
Drive slower than you normally would.
*
[DR20400(ALL)01/95]
q
Give your vehicle more distance to stop.
*
[DR20500(ALL)03/92]
q
Pump the brake pedal steadily and evenly to
avoid locking your wheels. (Does not apply
to vehicles with anti-lock brakes.)
*
[DR20600(ALL)02/93]
q
Consider using one of the lower gears.
*
[DR20750(ALL)07/95]
RWARNING
To avoid skidding and losing control on
slippery roads, do not downshift into 1
(First) when you are moving faster than
20 mph (30 km/h).
*
[DR20775(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.
*
[DR20850(ALL)01/95]
If your vehicle gets stuck (for example, in mud
or snow), you may try to ªrockº 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.
File:10fcdrt.ex
Update:Mon Jan 22 15:59:33 1996
ProCarManuals.com
Page 213 of 369
![FORD TAURUS 1996 Owners Manual 215 %
*
[DR29450(ALL)01/95]
Connecting the trailers brakes
*
[DR29500(ALL)01/95]
Electric brakes and manual, automatic, or
surge-type hydraulic brakes are safe if you
install them properly and adjust FORD TAURUS 1996 Owners Manual 215 %
*
[DR29450(ALL)01/95]
Connecting the trailers brakes
*
[DR29500(ALL)01/95]
Electric brakes and manual, automatic, or
surge-type hydraulic brakes are safe if you
install them properly and adjust](/manual-img/11/57830/w960_57830-212.png)
215 %
*
[DR29450(ALL)01/95]
Connecting the trailer's brakes
*
[DR29500(ALL)01/95]
Electric brakes and manual, automatic, or
surge-type hydraulic brakes are safe if you
install them properly and adjust them according
to the manufacturer's instructions. Be sure that
your trailer's brakes meet local and federal
regulations.
*
[DR29600(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Do not connect a trailer's hydraulic brake
system directly to your vehicle's brake
system. Your vehicle may not have
enough braking power and your chances
of having a collision greatly increase.
%*
[DR29650(ALL)01/95]
Connecting the trailer's lights
*
[DR29700(ALL)01/95]
Do not connect a trailer's lighting system
wiring directly to your vehicle's lighting system
wiring.To get the proper equipment for
hooking up your trailer's lights, see your local
trailer dealer and your Ford dealer. Be sure to
follow their instructions carefully.
*
[DR29800(ALL)01/95]
If you do not install trailer lights correctly, you
may cause damage to the vehicle's lighting
system.
File:10fcdrt.ex
Update:Mon Jan 22 15:59:33 1996
ProCarManuals.com
Page 215 of 369
![FORD TAURUS 1996 Owners Manual 217
Roadside Emergencies
%*
[RE00310(ALL)03/95]
If Your Vehicle Needs a
Jump-Start
*
[RE00320(ALL)08/95]
Your vehicles battery may die if you leave the
lights on or any electrical equipment on after
FORD TAURUS 1996 Owners Manual 217
Roadside Emergencies
%*
[RE00310(ALL)03/95]
If Your Vehicle Needs a
Jump-Start
*
[RE00320(ALL)08/95]
Your vehicles battery may die if you leave the
lights on or any electrical equipment on after](/manual-img/11/57830/w960_57830-214.png)
217
Roadside Emergencies
%*
[RE00310(ALL)03/95]
If Your Vehicle Needs a
Jump-Start
*
[RE00320(ALL)08/95]
Your vehicle's battery may die if you leave the
lights on or any electrical equipment on after
you turn the engine off. If this happens, you
may be able to jump-start your vehicle with a
booster battery.
*
[RE00400(ALL)02/95]
RWARNING
The gases around the battery can explode
if exposed to flames, sparks, or lit
cigarettes. An explosion could result in
injury or vehicle damage.
*
[RE00500(ALL)02/95]
RWARNING
To protect yourself when charging a
battery, always shield your face and eyes.
Make sure that you can breathe fresh air.
%*
[RE00700(ALL)06/95]
RWARNING
Applying too much pressure on the ends
when lifting a battery could cause acid to
spill. Lift the battery with a carrier or
with your hands on the opposite corners.
%*
[RE00800(ALL)07/95]
RWARNING
Batteries contain sulfuric acid which burns
skin, eyes, and clothing.
File:12fcret.ex
Update:Mon Jan 22 16:01:15 1996
ProCarManuals.com
Page 262 of 369
![FORD TAURUS 1996 Owners Manual 265 [SV06850(ALL)04/95]
RWARNING
The fuel system may be under pressure. If
the fuel cap is venting vapor or if you
hear a hissing sound, wait until it stops
before completely removing the cap.
Otherwi FORD TAURUS 1996 Owners Manual 265 [SV06850(ALL)04/95]
RWARNING
The fuel system may be under pressure. If
the fuel cap is venting vapor or if you
hear a hissing sound, wait until it stops
before completely removing the cap.
Otherwi](/manual-img/11/57830/w960_57830-261.png)
265 [SV06850(ALL)04/95]
RWARNING
The fuel system may be under pressure. If
the fuel cap is venting vapor or if you
hear a hissing sound, wait until it stops
before completely removing the cap.
Otherwise, fuel may spray out and injure
you or others.
*
[SV06900(ALL)05/95]
2. Make sure that you pump unleaded fuel and
put the nozzle all the way inside the fuel
filler pipe.
[SV06950(ALL)09/95]
NOTE: To help reduce early nozzle shutoffs
and fuel spillage, park your vehicle so
that the fuel filler door is not
downhill. Do not tilt or turn the nozzle
upside down when filling. Avoid
excessively fast fuel dispensing rates
(over 10 gallons [38 liters] per minute).
*
[SV07150(ALL)08/95]
NOTE: If you spill any fuel on the body of
your vehicle, clean it off immediately.
The fuel may dull or soften the paint
if you do not wash it off.
[SV07200(ALL)10/95]
3. To replace the fuel cap, align the tabs on the
cap with the notches on the filler pipe. Turn
it clockwise until it stops.
*
[SV07250(ALL)10/95]
4. Push the fuel door closed.
[SV07275(ALL)04/95]
If the Service Engine Soon warning light comes
on and stays on when you start the engine, the
fuel cap may not be properly seated. Turn off
the engine, remove the fuel cap and replace it,
being careful to align the cap properly. For more
information, seeWarning lightsin the Index.
*
[SV07290(ALL)07/95]
If you lose the fuel cap, replace it with an
authorized Motorcraft or equivalent part.
File:15fcsvt.ex
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Page 274 of 369
![FORD TAURUS 1996 Owners Manual 277 [SV17700(ALL)12/95]
one third page art:0000305-E
The engine coolant reservoir (3.0L Vulcan shown Ð 3.0L
Duratec and 3.4L SHO similar)
[SV17750(ALL)04/95]
The coolant level in the reservoir should FORD TAURUS 1996 Owners Manual 277 [SV17700(ALL)12/95]
one third page art:0000305-E
The engine coolant reservoir (3.0L Vulcan shown Ð 3.0L
Duratec and 3.4L SHO similar)
[SV17750(ALL)04/95]
The coolant level in the reservoir should](/manual-img/11/57830/w960_57830-273.png)
277 [SV17700(ALL)12/95]
one third page art:0000305-E
The engine coolant reservoir (3.0L Vulcan shown Ð 3.0L
Duratec and 3.4L SHO similar)
[SV17750(ALL)04/95]
The coolant level in the reservoir should be
maintained within the cold fill range.
[SV17900(ALL)02/95]
There may be a low coolant warning light in the
instrument cluster which will light when the
coolant level is low.
%*
[SV18000(ALL)08/95]
Checking Hoses
*
[SV18050(ALL)11/94]
Inspect all engine and heater system hoses and
hose connections for deterioration, leaks, and
loose hose clamps as specified in theMaintenance
Schedule and Recordbooklet. Repair or replace
with Motorcraft hoses or equivalent as necessary.
*
[SV18100(ALL)09/95]
Adding Engine Coolant
*
[SV18200(ALL)09/95]
RWARNING
Do not put engine coolant in the container
for the windshield washer fluid.
*
[SV18250(ALL)09/95]
If sprayed to clean the glass, engine coolant or
antifreeze could make it difficult to see through
the windshield.
File:15fcsvt.ex
Update:Tue Jan 23 13:58:51 1996
ProCarManuals.com
Page 309 of 369
312 [SV36250(ALL)04/95]
fourteen pica chart:0001468-A
*
[SV36300(ALL)08/95]
RWARNING
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.
[SV36400(ALL)11/94]
5. Put the cover back on.
*
[SV36600(ALL)01/95]
Even after you replace a fuse, it will continue to
blow if you do not find what caused the
overload. If the fuse continues to blow, have
your electrical system checked.
*
[SV37500(ALL)03/95]
The Lights
*
[SV37600(ALL)01/95]
It is a good idea to check the operation of the
following lights frequently:
*
[SV37700(ALL)01/95]
q
headlamps
*
[SV37800(ALL)01/95]
q
tail lamps
*
[SV37900(ALL)01/95]
q
brakelamps
*
[SV37950(ALL)02/95]
q
high-mount brakelamp
File:15fcsvt.ex
Update:Tue Jan 23 13:58:51 1996
ProCarManuals.com
Page 310 of 369
![FORD TAURUS 1996 Owners Manual 313
*
[SV38000(ALL)01/95]
q
hazard flasher
*
[SV38100(ALL)01/95]
q
turn signals
*
[SV38200(ALL)01/95]
q
side markers
*
[SV38300(ALL)01/95]
q
license plate lamp
%*
[SV38400(ALL)01/95]
The alignment of FORD TAURUS 1996 Owners Manual 313
*
[SV38000(ALL)01/95]
q
hazard flasher
*
[SV38100(ALL)01/95]
q
turn signals
*
[SV38200(ALL)01/95]
q
side markers
*
[SV38300(ALL)01/95]
q
license plate lamp
%*
[SV38400(ALL)01/95]
The alignment of](/manual-img/11/57830/w960_57830-309.png)
313
*
[SV38000(ALL)01/95]
q
hazard flasher
*
[SV38100(ALL)01/95]
q
turn signals
*
[SV38200(ALL)01/95]
q
side markers
*
[SV38300(ALL)01/95]
q
license plate lamp
%*
[SV38400(ALL)01/95]
The alignment of your headlamps should be
checked if:
*
[SV38500(ALL)01/95]
q
oncoming motorists frequently signal you to
turn off your vehicle's high beams when you
do not have the high beams on
*
[SV38600(ALL)01/95]
q
the headlamps do not seem to give you
enough light to see clearly at night
*
[SV38700(ALL)11/92]
q
the headlamps are not aligned so that they
point slightly down and to the right.
%*
[SV38800(ALL)03/95]
Replacing the Headlamp Bulb
*
[SV38900(ALL)01/95]
The headlamps on your vehicle use replaceable
bulbs. When the lamp burns out, simply replace
the bulb, rather than the whole lamp.
*
[SV39000(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Handle a halogen headlamp bulb carefully
and keep out of children's reach. Grasp
the bulb only by its plastic base and do
not touch the glass. The oil from your
hand could cause the bulb to break the
next time the headlamps are operated.
*
[SV39100(ALL)01/95]
Do not remove the burned-out bulb unless you
can immediately replace it with a new one. If a
bulb is removed for an extended period of time,
contaminants may enter the headlamp housing
and affect its performance.
File:15fcsvt.ex
Update:Tue Jan 23 13:58:51 1996
ProCarManuals.com