Page 219 of 389
![Mercury Villager 1997 Owners Manuals 220
*
[GF07200(ALL)01/96]
You should always be careful when braking, even if your
vehicle has the ABS system. Heavy braking on roads with loose
surfaces such as snow or gravel, or roads with severe pa Mercury Villager 1997 Owners Manuals 220
*
[GF07200(ALL)01/96]
You should always be careful when braking, even if your
vehicle has the ABS system. Heavy braking on roads with loose
surfaces such as snow or gravel, or roads with severe pa](/manual-img/33/11174/w960_11174-218.png)
220
*
[GF07200(ALL)01/96]
You should always be careful when braking, even if your
vehicle has the ABS system. Heavy braking on roads with loose
surfaces such as snow or gravel, or roads with severe pavement
irregularities could also cause you to lose control of your
vehicle.
*
[GF07300(ALL)03/96]
RWARNING
If the anti-lock brake system warning light remains on or
comes on while driving, have the braking system checked
by a qualified service technician as soon as possible.
*
[GF07310(ALL)03/96]
NOTE: If a fault occurs in the anti-lock system, and the brake
warning light is not lit, the anti-lock system is
disabled but normal brake function remains
operational.
[GF07350(ALL)01/96]
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 check ABS light
comes on (at any time other than immediately after turning the
key to the ON position) have your mobile radio dealer inspect
the installation. Also, if the ABS system is activated other than
during maximum braking, have your mobile radio installation
checked.
%*
[GF07400(ALL)03/96]
If Brakes Do Not Grip Well or Pedal is ªLowº
*
[GF07500(ALL)01/96]
If the brake pedal seems ªlowº it may indicate the need for a
brake system inspection and/or service. Apply your parking
brake several times. If the condition has not improved, you
should have your brakes checked as soon as possible.
%*
[GF07600(ALL)01/96]
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 very loud or if it becomes more frequent,
return the vehicle to your dealer for inspection.
File:09vxgfn.ex
Update:Thu May 30 09:54:10 1996
Page 221 of 389
222
[GF08600(ALL)01/96]
13-1/2 pica
art:0040281-A
The parking brake
*
[GF08700(ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
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.
[GF08800(ALL)01/96]
To release the parking brake, press the brake pedal with your
right foot and hold it while you lift up on the parking brake
release handle.
*
[GF08900(ALL)02/96]
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.
File:09vxgfn.ex
Update:Thu May 30 09:54:10 1996
Page 222 of 389
![Mercury Villager 1997 Owners Manuals Driving
223
*
[GF09000(ALL)02/96]
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 service brakes fail. However Mercury Villager 1997 Owners Manuals Driving
223
*
[GF09000(ALL)02/96]
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 service brakes fail. However](/manual-img/33/11174/w960_11174-221.png)
Driving
223
*
[GF09000(ALL)02/96]
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 service brakes fail. However, since the parking
brake does not stop your vehicle as quickly as the normal
brakes, the stopping distance will increase greatly.
%*
[GF09100(ALL)01/96]
Steering Your Vehicle
*
[GF09110(ALL)01/96]
Your vehicle has power steering. Power steering uses energy
from the engine to help steer your vehicle.
%*
[GF09120(ALL)03/96]
If the amount of effort needed to steer your vehicle changes at a
constant vehicle speed, have the power steering system checked.
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.
*
[GF09130(ALL)01/96]
Never hold the steering wheel in the extreme right or left
position for more than five seconds if the engine is running.
This can damage the power steering pump.
*
[GF09140(ALL)01/96]
NOTE: After any severe impact such as striking large
potholes, sliding into curbs on icy roads, or a collision
involving the front end, have the front suspension
and steering checked for possible damage.
File:09vxgfn.ex
Update:Thu May 30 09:54:10 1996
Page 236 of 389
![Mercury Villager 1997 Owners Manuals Driving
237
*
[GF19200(ALL)01/96]
Do not use single clamp bumper hitches or hitches that attach
to the axle.
*
[GF19300(ALL)01/96]
Whenever a trailer hitch and hardware are removed, make sure
all moun Mercury Villager 1997 Owners Manuals Driving
237
*
[GF19200(ALL)01/96]
Do not use single clamp bumper hitches or hitches that attach
to the axle.
*
[GF19300(ALL)01/96]
Whenever a trailer hitch and hardware are removed, make sure
all moun](/manual-img/33/11174/w960_11174-235.png)
Driving
237
*
[GF19200(ALL)01/96]
Do not use single clamp bumper hitches or hitches that attach
to the axle.
*
[GF19300(ALL)01/96]
Whenever a trailer hitch and hardware are removed, make sure
all mounting holes in the underbody are properly sealed to
prevent exhaust fumes from entering the vehicle.
*
[GF19400(ALL)01/96]
Safety chains
*
[GF19500(ALL)01/96]
Always use safety chains between your vehicle and trailer.
Cross chains under the trailer tongue and allow slack for
turning corners. Connect safety chains to the vehicle frame or
hook retainers.Never attach chains to the bumper.
%*
[GF19600(ALL)01/96]
Trailer Brakes
*
[GF19700(ALL)01/96]
Separate trailer brakes are required on most trailers weighing
over 1,500 lbs. (680 kg).
*
[GF19800(ALL)05/96]
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.
%*
[GF19900(ALL)01/96]
Trailer Lamps
*
[GF20000(ALL)01/96]
Make sure your trailer lamps conform to federal and local
regulations.
*
[GF20100(ALL)01/96]
Class I Trailer Tow electrical wiring provides two circuits (right
hand and left hand) to operate trailer stop/turn tail lamps. Each
stop/turn circuit will operate one combination stop/turn light
bulb (# 1157, 3157, 2357, or 3357) on the trailer. Never add more
than one trailer light bulb to one circuit.
File:09vxgfn.ex
Update:Thu May 30 09:54:10 1996
Page 269 of 389
![Mercury Villager 1997 Owners Manuals Roadside Emergencies
271
*
[ER01400(ALL)02/96]
To avoid damaging your vehicle or your battery, and to avoid
injury to yourself, follow these directions for preparing your
vehicle to jump-start and con Mercury Villager 1997 Owners Manuals Roadside Emergencies
271
*
[ER01400(ALL)02/96]
To avoid damaging your vehicle or your battery, and to avoid
injury to yourself, follow these directions for preparing your
vehicle to jump-start and con](/manual-img/33/11174/w960_11174-268.png)
Roadside Emergencies
271
*
[ER01400(ALL)02/96]
To avoid damaging your vehicle or your battery, and to avoid
injury to yourself, follow these directions for preparing your
vehicle to jump-start and connecting the jumper cables in the
order they are given. If in doubt, call for road service.
%*
[ER01500(ALL)02/96]
Preparing Your Vehicle
*
[ER01600(ALL)02/96]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).
*
[ER01700(ALL)02/96]2.
Do not disconnect the battery of the disabled vehicle. You
could damage the vehicle's electrical system.
*
[ER01800(ALL)02/96]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.
*
[ER01900(ALL)02/96]4.
Check all battery terminals and remove any excessive
corrosion before you attach the jumper cables.
*
[ER02000(ALL)01/96]5.
Turn on the heater blower in both vehicles. Turn off all other
switches and lights in both vehicles to prevent possible
damage to either vehicle's electrical systems.
File:10vxern.ex
Update:Thu May 30 09:55:50 1996
Page 282 of 389
![Mercury Villager 1997 Owners Manuals Maintenance and Care
285
*
[MC17900(ALL)03/96]
NOTE: SeeRefill Capacities, Motorcraft Parts and Lubrication
Specificationsin theCapacities and Specificationschapter
for the appropriate oil filter and Mercury Villager 1997 Owners Manuals Maintenance and Care
285
*
[MC17900(ALL)03/96]
NOTE: SeeRefill Capacities, Motorcraft Parts and Lubrication
Specificationsin theCapacities and Specificationschapter
for the appropriate oil filter and](/manual-img/33/11174/w960_11174-281.png)
Maintenance and Care
285
*
[MC17900(ALL)03/96]
NOTE: SeeRefill Capacities, Motorcraft Parts and Lubrication
Specificationsin theCapacities and Specificationschapter
for the appropriate oil filter and engine oil refill
quantity.
[MC18000(ALL)04/96]6.
Remove the engine oil dipstick (highlighted in yellow) to
prevent oil contamination of the engine ventilating system
while refilling.
[MC18100(ALL)04/96]7.
Refill the engine with a CERTIFIED engine oil of the
preferred viscosity. Start the engine and check for leaks.
Follow directions inChecking and adding engine oilto be sure
the engine is filled to the proper level.
*
[MC18150(ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
Continuous contact with USED motor oil has caused
cancer in laboratory mice.
*
[MC18200(ALL)01/96]
Protect your skin by washing with soap and water.
%*
[MC18220(ALL)05/96]
Brake Fluid
*
[MC18240(ALL)01/96]
Your vehicle is equipped with a brake fluid level indicator in
the master cylinder which lights the BRAKE warning light on
the instrument panel when the brake fluid level is low.
*
[MC18260(ALL)01/96]
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.
*
[MC18280(ALL)01/96]
Check the brake fluid at least once a year. You can do this by
looking at the fluid level in the plastic brake fluid reservoir on
the master cylinder. The fluid level should be at or near the
MAX mark.
*
[MC18300(ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
Brake fluid is toxic.
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Page 283 of 389
![Mercury Villager 1997 Owners Manuals 286
*
[MC18320(ALL)01/96]
If brake fluid contacts eyes, flush eyes with running water for
15 minutes. Get medical attention if irritation persists. If taken
internally, drink water and induce vomiting Mercury Villager 1997 Owners Manuals 286
*
[MC18320(ALL)01/96]
If brake fluid contacts eyes, flush eyes with running water for
15 minutes. Get medical attention if irritation persists. If taken
internally, drink water and induce vomiting](/manual-img/33/11174/w960_11174-282.png)
286
*
[MC18320(ALL)01/96]
If brake fluid contacts eyes, flush eyes with running water for
15 minutes. Get medical attention if irritation persists. If taken
internally, drink water and induce vomiting. Get medical
attention immediately.
%*
[MC18340(ALL)03/96
]
If the fluid is low, carefully clean and remove the filler cap
from the reservoir. Fill the reservoir to the MAX line with Ford
High Performance DOT 3 Brake Fluid C6AZ-19542-AB or DOT 3
equivalent fluid meeting Ford specification ESA-M6C25-A.
*
[MC18360(ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
If you use a brake fluid that is not DOT 3, you will
cause permanent damage to your brakes.
*
[MC18380(ALL)01/96]
Do not fill the reservoir above the MAX line.
*
[MC18400(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.
*
[MC18420(ALL)01/96]
RWARNING
Do not let the reservoir for the master cylinder run dry.
This may cause the brakes to fail.
File:11vxmcn.ex
Update:Mon Jun 10 15:17:05 1996
Page 315 of 389
![Mercury Villager 1997 Owners Manuals 318
%*
[MC38590(ALL)03/96
]
How to Prepare Your Vehicle for
Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) Testing
*
[MC38595(ALL)05/96]
In some localities it may become a legal requirement to pass an
Inspection/Mainte Mercury Villager 1997 Owners Manuals 318
%*
[MC38590(ALL)03/96
]
How to Prepare Your Vehicle for
Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) Testing
*
[MC38595(ALL)05/96]
In some localities it may become a legal requirement to pass an
Inspection/Mainte](/manual-img/33/11174/w960_11174-314.png)
318
%*
[MC38590(ALL)03/96
]
How to Prepare Your Vehicle for
Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) Testing
*
[MC38595(ALL)05/96]
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 the vehicle's powertrain system or its battery
has just been serviced, the OBD II system is reset to a not ready
for I/M testing condition. To prepare for I/M testing, the law
specifies that additional mixed city and highway driving is
required to complete the check of the OBD II system.
*
[MC38602(ALL)03/96]
The driving modes required to reach the ready condition consist
of a minimum of 30 minutes of city and highway driving as
described below.
*
[MC38607(ALL)03/96]
n
20 minutes of driving in stop and go city-type traffic with at
least four idle periods.
*
[MC38612(ALL)03/96]
n
10 minutes of driving on an expressway or highway.
*
[MC38617(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.
%*
[MC38700(ALL)03/96]
Lights and Bulb Replacement
*
[MC38800(ALL)01/96]
It is a good idea to check the operation of the following lights
frequently:
*
[MC38900(ALL)01/96]
n
headlamps
*
[MC38950(ALL)01/96]
n
high-mount brakelamp
*
[MC39000(ALL)01/96]
n
tail lamps
*
[MC39100(ALL)01/96]
n
brakelamps
File:11vxmcn.ex
Update:Mon Jun 10 15:17:05 1996