1998 FORD ESCORT oil level

Charging system
Momentarily illuminates when the
ignition is turned ON and the
engine is off. The light also
illuminates when the battery is not
charging properly, requiring
electrical system service.
Engine oil pressure
Illuminates when the oil pressure
falls below the normal range.
Switch off the engine immediately.
Check the oil level and add oil if
needed. Refer toEngine oilin the
Maintenance and Carechapter.
This lamp also illuminates when
the ignition is turned to ON and
the engine is off.
Check coolant
Illuminates when the coolant level
in the coolant reservoir is low and
more needs to be added. This lamp
will also illuminate when the
ignition is turned to ON and the
engine is off. For more information
on adding engine coolant, refer to
Engine coolantin the
Maintenance and carechapter.
Liftgate ajar (if equipped)
Illuminates when the ignition is in
the ON position and the liftgate is
open.
Safety belt warning chime
Chimes to remind you to fasten
your safety belts.
CHECK
COOLANT
Instrumentation
11

ENGINE OIL
Checking the engine oil
Check the engine oil each time you
fuel your vehicle.
1. Make sure the vehicle is on level
ground.
2. Turn the engine off and wait a
few minutes for the oil to drain
into the oil pan.
3. Set the parking brake and
ensure the gearshift is securely
latched in P (automatic transaxle)
or 1st (manual transaxle).
4. Open the hood. Protect yourself
from engine heat.
5. Locate and carefully remove the
engine oil indicator (dipstick).
²2.0L SOHC engine
ADDFULL
Maintenance and care
132

²2.0L DOHC Zetec engine
6. Wipe the indicator clean. Insert
the indicator fully, then remove it
again.
²If the oil level isbetween the
ADD and FULL marks, the oil
level is acceptable.DO NOT
ADD OIL.
²If the oil level is below the ADD
mark, add enough oil to raise
the level within the ADD-FULL
range.
²Oil levels above the F in FULL
may cause engine damage. Some
oil must be removed from the
engine by a service technician.
7. Put the indicator back in and
ensure it is fully seated.
FULL ADD
Maintenance and care
133

Adding engine oil
1. Check the engine oil. For
instructions, refer toChecking the
engine oilin this chapter.
2. If the fluid level is not within
the normal range, add only
certified engine oil of the preferred
viscosity. Add engine oil through
the oil filler cap. Remove the filler
cap and use a funnel to pour oil in
the opening.
3. Recheck the oil level. Make sure
the oil level is not above the F in
FULL mark on the dipstick.
Engine oil recommendations
Look for this certification mark.
Ford oil specification is
WSS-M2C153-G.
Use SAE 5W-30 motor oil certified
for gasoline engines by the
American Petroleum Institute.
Do not use supplemental engine oil
additives, oil treatments or engine
treatments. They are unnecessary
and could, under certain
conditions, lead to engine damage
which is not covered by your
warranty.
Maintenance and care
134