1998 Mercury Grand Marquis charging

Turn signal
Illuminates when the left or right
turn signal or the hazard lights are
turned on. If one or both of the
indicators stay on continuously or
flash faster, check for a burned-out
turn signal bulb. Refer toExterior bulbsin theMaintenance and care
chapter.
High beams
Illuminates when the high beam
headlamps are turned on.
Charging system
Illuminates when the ignition is
turned to the ON position and the
engine is off. The light also
illuminates when the battery is not
charging properly, requiring
electrical system service.
Engine oil pressure (if equipped)
Illuminates when the oil pressure
falls below the normal range. Stop
the vehicle as soon as safely
possible and switch off the engine
immediately. Check the oil level and
add oil if needed. Refer toEngine oilin theMaintenance and Care
chapter.
This lamp also illuminates when the ignition is turned to ON and the
engine is off.
Instrumentation
9

However, for severe usage or in high temperature climates, check the
battery electrolyte level at least once every two months. Refer to the
ªService Guideº for the service interval schedules
If the electrolyte level in the battery is low, you can add plain tap water
to the battery, as long as you do not use hard water (water with a high
mineral or alkali content). If possible, however, try to only fill the battery
cells with distilled water. If the battery needs water often, have the
charging system checked.
Keep the electrolyte level in each cell up to the ªlevel indicatorº.
Do not overfill the battery cells.
For longer, trouble-free operation, keep the top of the battery clean and
dry. Also, make certain the battery cables are always tightly fastened to
the battery terminals.
If you see any corrosion on the battery or terminals, remove the cables
from the terminal(s) and clean with a wire brush. You can neutralize the
acid with a solution of baking soda and water. Reinstall the cables when
you are done cleaning them, and apply a small quantity of grease to the
top of each battery terminal to help prevent corrosion.
If your battery has a cover/shield, make sure it is reinstalled
after the battery has been cleaned or replaced.
Batteries normally produce explosive gases which can cause
personal injury. Therefore, do not allow flames, sparks or lighted
substances to come near the battery. When working near the battery,
always shield your face and protect your eyes. Always provide proper
ventilation.
When lifting a plastic-cased battery, excessive pressure on the
end walls could cause acid to flow through the vent caps,
resulting in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or battery.
Lift the battery with a battery carrier or with your hands on opposite
corners.
Maintenance and care
121

4. Use one of the following equations to calculate fuel economy.
Liters used x 1004Total kilometers traveled
Total miles traveled4Total gallons used
Keep a record for at least one month. This will provide an accurate
estimate of the vehicle's fuel economy.
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
Your vehicle is equipped with various emission control components and a
catalytic converter which will enable your vehicle to comply with
applicable exhaust emission standards. To make sure that the catalytic
converter and other emission control components continue to work
properly:
²Use only unleaded fuel.
²Avoid running out of fuel.
²Do not turn off the ignition while your vehicle is moving, especially at
high speeds.
²Have the items listed in your ªService Guideº performed according to
the specified schedule.
The scheduled maintenance items listed in the ªService Guideº are
essential to the life and performance of your vehicle and to its emissions
system.
If other than Ford, Motorcraft or Ford-authorized parts are used for
maintenance replacements or for service of components affecting
emission control, such non-Ford parts should be equivalent to genuine
Ford Motor Company parts in performance and durability.
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.
Lumination of the charging system warning light, ªCheck Engineº light or
the temperature warning light, fluid leaks, strange odors, smoke or loss
of oil pressure, could indicate that the emission control system is not
working properly.
Maintenance and care
131

Headlamps ...................................23
autolamp system .......................24
daytime running lights .............24
flashing ......................................23
high beam .................................23
Heating ........................................25
High beams
indicator light .............................9
Hood
release lever ............................108
Ignition
positions of the ignition ...........35
Instrument panel
cleaning ...................................140
lighting up panel and interior .23
Keyless entry system
autolock .....................................50
keypad .......................................55
programming entry code ....55,56
Keys
key in ignition chime ...............11
Lamps
headlamps ...............................133
high-mount brakelamp ...........135
interior lamps .........................136
parking lamps .........................134
tail lamps .................................135
License plate lamps ..................135
Lights, warning and indicator
air bag ..........................................8
air suspension ...........................10
anti-lock brakes (ABS) .........8,22
brake .......................................8,22
charging system ..........................9
check engine ............................6,7
fuel reset .....................................6
low coolant ................................10
oil pressure .................................9
overdrive off ..............................10
safety belt ...................................8
turn signal indicator ...................9
Lubricant specifications ...........144Message center ...........................17
reset button .........................17,18
select button .............................18
Mirrors
automatic dimming
rearview mirror .........................42
side view mirrors (power) .......47
Motorcraft parts ........................142
Odometer .....................................14
Panic alarm feature,
remote entry system ..................51
Parking brake ..............................83
Power door locks ........................47
Power steering
fluid, checking and adding ....118
Radio ............................................33
Refill capacities for fluids ........143
Relays ...................................95,100
Remote entry system .................49
illuminated entry ......................51
locking/unlocking doors ...........49
replacement/additional
transmitters ...............................53
replacing the batteries .............52
Reporting safety defects ..........148
Safety restraints
cleaning the safety belts ........140
extension assembly ..................65
for children ...............................71
lap and shoulder belts ...61,62,63
maintenance ..............................66
proper use .................................60
warning light
and chime ........................11,65,66
Safety seats for children
attaching with tether straps ....76
in rear seat ................................76
tether anchorage hardware .....76
Seats ............................................57
adjusting the seat, manual ..57,58
adjusting the seat, power ...58,60
cleaning upholstery ................140
Index
150