![FORD ASPIRE 1997 1.G Owners Manual 161
%*
[MC29542(ALL)01/96]
Automatic Transaxle Fluid
*
[MC29544(ALL)02/96]
Under normal circumstances, you do not need to
check the fluid level of the transaxle, since your
vehicle does not use up tra FORD ASPIRE 1997 1.G Owners Manual 161
%*
[MC29542(ALL)01/96]
Automatic Transaxle Fluid
*
[MC29544(ALL)02/96]
Under normal circumstances, you do not need to
check the fluid level of the transaxle, since your
vehicle does not use up tra](/manual-img/11/4754/w960_4754-162.png)
161
%*
[MC29542(ALL)01/96]
Automatic Transaxle Fluid
*
[MC29544(ALL)02/96]
Under normal circumstances, you do not need to
check the fluid level of the transaxle, since your
vehicle does not use up transaxle fluid. Refer to
theMaintenance Schedulebooklet for replacement
intervals. However, if the transaxle is not
working properly Ð for instance, the transaxle
may slip or shift slowly, or you may notice
some sign of fluid leakage Ð the fluid level
should be checked.
%*
[MC29546(ALL)01/96]
Checking the Automatic Transaxle Fluid
[MC29548(ALL)04/96]
With the vehicle on a level surface and the brake
pedal fully applied, start the engine and move
the gearshift selector through all of the gears.
Allow sufficient time for each position to engage.
Securely latch the gearshift selector in the P
(Park) position. Fully set the parking brake and
leave the engine running.
[MC29550(ALL)01/96]
Pull the dipstick out and wipe the indicator end
clean. Put the dipstick back into the filler tube
and make sure it is fully seated; otherwise, you
will not get an accurate reading. Pull the
dipstick out and read the fluid level.
[MC29555(ALL)01/96]
one third page art:0032228-B
Automatic transaxle fluid dipstick
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Update:Tue Mar 4 08:57:16 1997
![FORD ASPIRE 1997 1.G Owners Manual 175 %
*
[MC43775(ALL)01/96]
WARNING
If you do not use the proper fuel cap, the
pressure in the fuel tank can damage the
fuel system or cause it to work improperly
in a collision.
*
[MC43780(ALL)01/96] FORD ASPIRE 1997 1.G Owners Manual 175 %
*
[MC43775(ALL)01/96]
WARNING
If you do not use the proper fuel cap, the
pressure in the fuel tank can damage the
fuel system or cause it to work improperly
in a collision.
*
[MC43780(ALL)01/96]](/manual-img/11/4754/w960_4754-176.png)
175 %
*
[MC43775(ALL)01/96]
WARNING
If you do not use the proper fuel cap, the
pressure in the fuel tank can damage the
fuel system or cause it to work improperly
in a collision.
*
[MC43780(ALL)01/96]
NOTE: If you replace your fuel cap with an
aftermarket fuel filler cap, the customer
warranty may be void for any damage
to the fuel tank and/or fuel system.
*
[MC43785(ALL)08/96]
WARNING
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.
*
[MC43795(ALL)08/96]
A venting fuel tank is not an abnormal
condition. It may be caused by:
*
[MC43800(ALL)08/96]
q
too volatile a fuel for the weather conditions.
Service stations sometimes sell winter grade
fuel in the summer.
*
[MC43805(ALL)08/96]
q
extended periods of idling with the engine
RPM increased above the normal idle range.
*
[MC43810(ALL)08/96]
q
parking the vehicle in full sunlight for
extended periods on extremely hot days.
*
[MC43815(ALL)01/96]
WARNING
Do not overfill the fuel tank. The pressure
in an overfilled tank may cause leakage
and lead to fuel spray and fire.
*
[MC43820(ALL)01/96]
Before you fill your vehicle with fuel, extinguish
all lit cigarettes, other smoking materials, and
any open flames.
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Update:Tue Mar 4 08:57:16 1997
![FORD ASPIRE 1997 1.G Owners Manual 176
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[MC43825(ALL)01/96]
To fill the tank properly:
*
[MC43830(ALL)01/96]
1. Remove the fuel cap. Proceed to add fuel to
the tank only if your vehicle is on level
ground.
[MC43835(ALL)01/96]
2. Make FORD ASPIRE 1997 1.G Owners Manual 176
*
[MC43825(ALL)01/96]
To fill the tank properly:
*
[MC43830(ALL)01/96]
1. Remove the fuel cap. Proceed to add fuel to
the tank only if your vehicle is on level
ground.
[MC43835(ALL)01/96]
2. Make](/manual-img/11/4754/w960_4754-177.png)
176
*
[MC43825(ALL)01/96]
To fill the tank properly:
*
[MC43830(ALL)01/96]
1. Remove the fuel cap. Proceed to add fuel to
the tank only if your vehicle is on level
ground.
[MC43835(ALL)01/96]
2. Make sure that you pump unleaded fuel and
put the nozzle all the way inside the fuel
filler pipe. The fuel tank is normally full
after three automatic shutoffs of the nozzle.
*
[MC43840(ALL)01/96]
3. 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.
[MC43845(ALL)01/96]
4. Replace the fuel cap tightly when you are
finished. Turn it clockwise until you hear at
least three clicks.
*
[MC43850(ALL)01/96]
5. Push the fuel door closed.
%*
[MC43855(ALL)08/96]
Choosing the Right Fuel
*
[MC43861(ALL)05/96]
Use only UNLEADED FUEL. The use of leaded
fuel is prohibited by law and could damage
your vehicle. The damage may not be covered
by your warranty.
*
[MC43866(ALL)08/96]
Your vehicle was not designed to use fuel
containing manganese-based additives such as
MMT. Additionally, vehicles certified to
California emission standards (indicated on the
underhood Vehicle Emissions Control
Information label) are designed to operate on
California reformulated gasolines. If California
reformulated gasoline is not available when you
refuel, your vehicle can be operated on
non-California fuels. However, even though your
engine will perform adequately on other
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Update:Tue Mar 4 08:57:16 1997

177
gasolines, the performance of the emission
control devices and systems may be adversely
affected. Repair of damage caused by using a
fuel that your vehicle was not designed for may
not be covered by your warranty.
%*
[MC43870(ALL)08/96]
Octane recommendation
*
[MC43876(ALL)05/96]
Your vehicle is designed to use regular gasoline
with an (R+M)/2 octane rating of 87.We do not
recommend gasolines labeled as ªregularº in
high altitude areas that are sold with octane
ratings of 86 or even less.
*
[MC43880(ALL)05/96]
one inch art:0060001-C
Typical octane rating label
*
[MC43891(ALL)08/96]
Do not be concerned if your vehicle sometimes
knocks lightly. However, if it knocks heavily
under most driving conditions on the
recommended octane fuel, see your dealer or a
qualified service technician to prevent any
engine damage.
%*
[MC43895(ALL)05/96]
Fuel quality
*
[MC43901(ALL)05/96]
If you are experiencing starting, rough idle or
hesitation problems try a different brand of fuel.
If the condition persists, see your dealer or a
qualified service technician.
*
[MC43904(ALL)08/96]
The American Automobile Manufacturers
Association (AAMA) issued a gasoline
specification to provide information on high
quality fuels that optimize the performance of
your vehicle. We recommend the use of
gasolines that meet the AAMA specification if
they are available.
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Update:Tue Mar 4 08:57:16 1997
![FORD ASPIRE 1997 1.G Owners Manual 179
*
[MC44010(ALL)01/96]
Gasoline and gasoline blends may contain small
amounts of carcinogens, such as benzene.
Long-term exposure to unleaded gasoline vapors
has caused cancer in laboratory animals FORD ASPIRE 1997 1.G Owners Manual 179
*
[MC44010(ALL)01/96]
Gasoline and gasoline blends may contain small
amounts of carcinogens, such as benzene.
Long-term exposure to unleaded gasoline vapors
has caused cancer in laboratory animals](/manual-img/11/4754/w960_4754-180.png)
179
*
[MC44010(ALL)01/96]
Gasoline and gasoline blends may contain small
amounts of carcinogens, such as benzene.
Long-term exposure to unleaded gasoline vapors
has caused cancer in laboratory animals.
*
[MC44015(ALL)01/96]
If you are taking the medication ªAntabuseº or
other forms of disulfiram for the treatment of
alcoholism, vapor or skin contact with a
gasoline-methanol blend may cause the same
kind of adverse reaction as drinking an alcoholic
beverage. In sensitive individuals, serious
personal injury or sickness could result. Consult
a physician promptly if you experience an
adverse reaction.
%*
[MC44020(ALL)01/96]
Running Out of Fuel
*
[MC44025(ALL)08/95]
NOTE: Avoid running out of fuel because this
situation may have an adverse effect on
modern powertrain components.
*
[MC44030(ALL)01/96]
You may need to crank the engine several times
before the fuel system starts to pump fuel from
the tank to the engine.
%*
[MC44035(ALL)03/96]
Fuel Economy
*
[MC44040(ALL)01/96]
Fuel economy is an estimate of the efficiency of
your vehicle and can be calculated as Miles Per
Gallon (MPG) or Liters Per 100 Kilometers
(L/100K). Do not calculate the fuel economy
during your vehicle's break-in period. This
would not be an accurate estimate of how much
fuel your vehicle will normally use.
*
[MC44045(ALL)01/96]
To calculate fuel economy:
*
[MC44050(ALL)01/96]
1. Fill the tank completely and record the
initial odometer reading.
*
[MC44055(ALL)01/96]
2. Every time you buy fuel record the
amount (in gallons or liters) purchased.
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![FORD ASPIRE 1997 1.G Owners Manual 182
*
[MC48300(ALL)01/96]
WARNING
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 sta FORD ASPIRE 1997 1.G Owners Manual 182
*
[MC48300(ALL)01/96]
WARNING
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 sta](/manual-img/11/4754/w960_4754-183.png)
182
*
[MC48300(ALL)01/96]
WARNING
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.
*
[MC48400(ALL)01/96]
Watch for fluid leaks, strange odors, smoke, loss
of oil pressure, the charge warning light, the
check engine light, or the temperature warning
light. These sometimes indicate that the emission
system is not working properly.
*
[MC48500(ALL)01/96]
Do not make any unauthorized changes to your
vehicle or engine. Changes that cause more
unburned fuel to reach the exhaust system can
increase the temperature of the engine or
exhaust system.
*
[MC48550(ALL)01/96]
In general, maintenance, replacement, or service
of the emissions control devices or systems in
your new Ford Motor Company vehicle or
engine may be performed at your expense by
any automotive repair establishment or
individual using automotive parts equivalent to
those which your vehicle or engine was
originally equipped.
*
[MC48575(ALL)01/96]
If other than Ford or Motorcraft or Ford
authorized remanufactured parts are used for
maintenance, replacement, or for the service of
components affecting emissions control, the
owner should be assured that such parts are
warranted by their manufacturer to be
equivalent to genuine Ford Motor Company
parts in performance and durability. Please
consult your warranty information booklet for
complete warranty information.
File:11icmcf.ex
Update:Tue Mar 4 08:57:16 1997
![FORD ASPIRE 1997 1.G Owners Manual 183
*
[MC48600(ALL)01/96]
By law, anyone who manufactures, repairs,
services, sells, leases, trades vehicles, or
supervises a fleet of vehicles is not permitted to
intentionally remove an emission con FORD ASPIRE 1997 1.G Owners Manual 183
*
[MC48600(ALL)01/96]
By law, anyone who manufactures, repairs,
services, sells, leases, trades vehicles, or
supervises a fleet of vehicles is not permitted to
intentionally remove an emission con](/manual-img/11/4754/w960_4754-184.png)
183
*
[MC48600(ALL)01/96]
By law, anyone who manufactures, repairs,
services, sells, leases, trades vehicles, or
supervises a fleet of vehicles is not permitted to
intentionally remove an emission control device
or prevent it from working. In some of the
United States and in Canada, vehicle owners
may be liable if their emission control device is
removed or is prevented from working.
*
[MC48700(ALL)08/95]
Never use a metal exhaust collector when you
service your vehicle. If the metal collector
contacts any of your vehicle's plastic trim or
bumper parts they could melt or deform.
*
[MC48800(ALL)01/96]
Do not drive your vehicle if it does not operate
properly. See your dealer if the engine runs on
for more than five seconds after you shut it off
or if it misfires, surges, stalls, or backfires.
%*
[MC48900(ALL)01/96]
Information about your vehicle's emission
control 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.
%*
[MC48910(ALL)03/96]
How to Prepare Your Vehicle for
Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) Testing
[MC48920(ALL)02/97]
In some localities it may become a legal
requirement to pass an
Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) test of the
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) II system. If your
ªCheck Engineº light is on, reference the ªCheck
Engineº light description under the Warning
Lights and Gauges section. Your vehicle may not
pass an I/M test with the Check Engine light on.
If the vehicle's powertrain system or its battery
has just been serviced, the OBD II system is
reset to a not ready for for I/M testing
condition. To prepare for I/M testing, additional
mixed city and highway driving to complete the
check of the OBD II system is necessary.
File:11icmcf.ex
Update:Tue Mar 4 08:57:16 1997
![FORD ASPIRE 1997 1.G Owners Manual 184
*
[MC48950(ALL)07/96]
The driving modes required to reach the ready
condition consist of a minimum of 30 minutes of
city and highway driving as described below:
*
[MC48960(ALL)03/96]
q
20 minutes FORD ASPIRE 1997 1.G Owners Manual 184
*
[MC48950(ALL)07/96]
The driving modes required to reach the ready
condition consist of a minimum of 30 minutes of
city and highway driving as described below:
*
[MC48960(ALL)03/96]
q
20 minutes](/manual-img/11/4754/w960_4754-185.png)
184
*
[MC48950(ALL)07/96]
The driving modes required to reach the ready
condition consist of a minimum of 30 minutes of
city and highway driving as described below:
*
[MC48960(ALL)03/96]
q
20 minutes of driving in stop and go
city-type traffic with at least four idle periods.
*
[MC48970(ALL)03/96]
q
10 minutes of driving on an expressway or
highway.
*
[MC48980(ALL)05/96]
Before completing the above driving modes, the
engine must be warmed up and at operating
temperature. Once started, the vehicle must not
be turned off during the above driving modes. If
the vehicle owner is unable to meet the I/M
requirements by using these driving patterns, an
authorized service center can perform a detailed
OBD II drive cycle as it would any other type of
repair work.
%
*
[MC60000(ALL)03/96]
Lights and Bulb Replacement
*
[MC60100(ALL)01/96]
It is a good idea to check the operation of the
following lights frequently:
*
[MC60200(ALL)01/96]
q
headlamps
[MC60300(ALL)01/96]
q
high mount brakelamp
*
[MC60400(ALL)01/96]
q
tail lamps
*
[MC60500(ALL)01/96]
q
brakelamps
*
[MC60600(ALL)01/96]
q
hazard flasher
*
[MC60700(ALL)01/96]
q
turn signals
*
[MC60800(ALL)01/96]
q
side markers
*
[MC60900(ALL)05/96]
q
license plate lamps
*
[MC61000(ALL)01/96]
q
fog lamps
File:11icmcf.ex
Update:Tue Mar 4 08:57:16 1997