1997 Mercury Mercury Cougar washer fluid

20 % [IS13900( BC )04/96]Washer Fluid Low Light
*
[IS13950( BC )04/96]
This light comes on if the reservoir is less than a
quarter full when you turn on the windshield
washers.
[IS14000( BC )05/96]
one inch art:0000118-B
The washer fluid low light
%*
[IS14200( ALL)03/96]
Fuel Gauge
[IS14300( BC )04/96]
one third page art:0011340-B
The fuel gauge
[IS14600( ALL)12/95]
The fuel gauge displays approximately how
much fuel is in the fuel tank only when the
ignition switch is ON. For proper fuel gauge
indication after adding fuel, turn the ignition
switch OFF while refueling the vehicle.
[IS14700( ALL)12/95]
The fuel gauge indicator may vary slightly when
the vehicle is in motion. The most accurate
reading is obtained with the vehicle on level
ground.
File:03rcisc.ex
Update:Fri Jun 7 13:56:06 1996

77 [CF29600( ALL)04/96]
To set the interval wipers, turn the knob at the
end of the turn signal lever toward or away
from you until the wipers are going at the
desired interval.
*
[CF29700( ALL)01/96]
Windshield Washer
*
[CF29800( ALL)12/95]
To clean the windshield, push in the end of the
wiper knob. For a constant spray, keep the knob
pushed in. After you release the knob, the
wipers operate for two to three cycles before
turning off (if the wipers were OFF) or
returning to HI, LO, or the interval setting
selected.
*
[CF29900( ALL)03/96]
If the washer does not work, check the washer
fluid level and fill it if it is low. See the
Maintenance and Carechapter. If there is enough
fluid, consult your nearest Ford or
Lincoln-Mercury dealer.
*
[CF30000( ALL)08/95]
Do not try to clean the windshield when the
washer fluid container is empty or activate the
washers at any time for more than 15 seconds
continuously. This could damage the washer
pump system.
*
[CF30100( ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
Always warm up the windshield with the
defroster before you use the washer fluid.
In freezing weather, the washer solution
may freeze on the windshield and obscure
your vision.
*
[CF30200( ALL)03/96]
For information about refilling the washer fluid
or replacing your windshield wiper blades, see
Windshield washer fluid and Wipersin the Index.
File:05rccfc.ex
Update:Fri Jun 7 13:58:04 1996

212
*
[MC10100( ALL)01/96]
If you find that the fluid level is excessively low
Ð below the seam or ridge on the outside of the
plastic reservoir Ð have the brake system
inspected.
*
[MC10200( ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
Do not let the reservoir for the master
cylinder run dry. This may cause the
brakes to fail.
%
*
[MC10900( ALL)02/96]
Windshield Washer Fluid
%*
[MC11000( ALL)03/96]
Washer Fluid
[MC11100( ALL)04/96]
Check the level of the windshield washer fluid
periodically. The reservoir for washer fluid is
located on the driver's side of the engine
compartment. Do not operate the washer when
the reservoir is empty.
[MC11300( BC )12/95]
one third page art:0010375-B
The reservoir for the windshield washer fluid
*
[MC11500( ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
Do not put windshield washer fluid in the
container for the engine coolant.
File:11rcmcc.ex
Update:Mon Jun 3 09:27:52 1996

213 %
*
[MC11600( ALL)02/96]
Use specially formulated windshield washer
fluid rather than plain water, because specially
formulated washer fluids contain additives that
dissolve road grime. For safety reasons, washer
fluids containing an appropriate antifreeze such
as methanol should be used in freezing weather
(temperatures below32ÊF [0ÊC]).State or local
regulations on Volatile Organic Compounds
(VOCs) may restrict use of the most common
antifreeze, methanol. 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, and windshield washer system.
%
*
[MC11700( ALL)01/96]
Engine Coolant
%*
[MC11800( ALL)01/96]
Checking the Engine Coolant
*
[MC11900( ALL)05/96]
NOTE: Be sure to read and understand
Precautions When Servicing Your
Vehicleat the beginning of this chapter.
*
[MC12100( BCGV)05/96]
RWARNING
The cooling fan is automatic and may
come on at any time. Always disconnect
the negative terminal of the battery before
working near the fan.
%*
[MC12200( ALL)12/95]
Your vehicle's coolant protects your engine from
overheating in the summer and from freezing in
the winter. Check the level of the coolant at least
once a month. Simply look at the engine coolant
reservoir located in the engine compartment. To
locate the reservoir, see the diagram of your
vehicle's engine underEngine Type, in this
chapter.
File:11rcmcc.ex
Update:Mon Jun 3 09:27:52 1996

215
*
[MC12900( ALL)05/96]
Adding Engine Coolant
*
[MC13000( ALL)05/96]
RWARNING
Do not put engine coolant in the container
for the windshield washer fluid.
*
[MC13100(MBC )05/96]
If sprayed to clean the glass, engine coolant or
antifreeze could make it difficult to see through
the windshield.
[MC13200(MBC )05/96]
RWARNING
Never remove the radiator cap or vent
plug while the engine is running or hot.
[MC13400(MBC )05/96]
Follow these steps to avoid personal injury that
can be caused by escaping steam or engine
coolant.
[MC13500(MBC )12/95]
1. Before you remove the cap, turn the engine
off and let it cool. Even when the engine is
cool, be careful when you remove the
radiator cap or vent plug.
[MC13700(MBC )05/96]
2. When the engine is cool, wrap a thick cloth
around the cap and turn it slowly
counterclockwise to unscrew.
*
[MC13800(MBC )05/96]
3. Step back while the pressure releases.
[MC13900(MBC )05/96]
4. When you are sure that all the pressure has
been released, use the cloth to press the cap
down, turn it counterclockwise, and remove
it.
*
[MC14000(MBC )05/96]
5. Stand away from the radiator opening. Hot
steam may blow out or hot engine coolant
may even splash out.
File:11rcmcc.ex
Update:Mon Jun 3 09:27:52 1996

239
*
[MC35500( ALL)01/96]
q
Heavy loads
*
[MC35600( ALL)01/96]
q
Aftermarket add-ons such as bike, ski or
luggage racks, bug deflectors, etc.
*
[MC35700( ALL)12/95]
Self-Service Pointers
*
[MC35800( ALL)12/95]
If you choose to do your own fueling, you
should also perform a few simple maintenance
routines. This extra effort will save you
additional money and contribute to the driving
efficiency of your vehicle.
*
[MC35900( ALL)12/95]
The following procedures require only a tire
gauge, a rag, an oil can spout and windshield
washer fluid.
*
[MC36000( ALL)12/95]
q
Check the engine oil at every refueling stop
*
[MC36100( ALL)12/95]
q
Clean the windshield, outside mirrors and
headlights
*
[MC36200( ALL)12/95]
q
Check windshield washer fluid
*
[MC36300( ALL)12/95]
q
Check tires for excessive wear or worn edges
*
[MC36400( ALL)12/95]
q
Check the tire pressure at least monthly
%
*
[MC36500( ALL)01/96]
Emission Control System
*
[MC36600( ALL)01/96]
Your vehicle is equipped with a catalytic
converter which enables your vehicle to comply
with applicable exhaust emission requirements.
*
[MC36700( ALL)05/96]
RWARNING
Exhaust leaks may result in the entry of
harmful and potentially lethal fumes into
the passenger compartment. Under
extreme conditions excessive exhaust
temperatures could damage the fuel
system, the interior floor covering, or
other vehicle components, possibly
causing a fire.
File:11rcmcc.ex
Update:Mon Jun 3 09:27:52 1996

252
*
[MC51800( ALL)01/96]
Cleaning the Engine
*
[MC51900( ALL)01/96]
A clean engine is more efficient because a
buildup of grease and dirt acts as an insulator,
keeping the engine warmer than usual.
*
[MC52000( ALL)01/96]
q
Extreme care must be used if a power washer
is used to clean the engine. The high pressure
fluid could penetrate sealed parts and
assemblies causing damage or malfunctions.
*
[MC52100( BCGV)04/96]
q
In order to avoid possible cracking of the
engine block or fuel injection pump, do not
spray a hot engine or injection pump with
cold water.
*
[MC52200( BCGV)04/96]
q
The alternator, distributor and air intake must
be covered. Covering these components will
help prevent water damage.
*
[MC52300( ALL)01/96]
q
Never wash or rinse the engine while it is
running. Water getting into the engine may
cause internal damage.
%*
[MC52400( ALL)03/96]
Cleaning the Wheels
*
[MC52500( ALL)03/96]
Wash the wheels with the same detergent you
use to wash your vehicle's body. Do not use
acid-based wheel cleaners, steel wool, abrasives,
fuel, or strong detergents. These substances will
damage protective coatings. Use tar and road oil
remover to remove grease and tar.
*
[MC52600( ALL)03/96]
NOTE: Before going to a car wash, find out if
the brushes are abrasive.
File:11rcmcc.ex
Update:Mon Jun 3 09:27:52 1996

Index 307
Lamps (continued)
flashing the lamps........... 76
hazard flashers............. 78
headlamps............... 68
high beams.............. 75
high-mount brakelamp........ 246
illuminated entry system........ 91
illuminated mirrors........... 89
instrument panel, dimming....... 71
interior lamps............. 71
replacing bulbs............ 243
trailer................ 167
Lane change indicator (see Turn signal) . . . 74
Lap belts................ 117
Lights, warning and indicator
airbag................. 13
anti-lock brakes (ABS).......... 11
anti-theft................ 16
brake................. 10
charging system............ 14
door ajar................ 18
engine oil pressure........... 18
hazard warning light.......... 78
high beam............... 16
low coolant.............. 13
low fuel................ 19
low washer fluid............ 20
oil pressure.............. 18
overdrive off.............. 14
safety belt............... 12
service engine soon........... 16
theft system.............. 16
turn signal indicator.......... 17
Load limits............... 162
GAWR................ 162
GVWR................ 162
trailer towing............. 164
File:rcixc.ex
Update:Mon Jun 3 09:28:38 1996