2002 FORD ESCORT service indicator

²2.0L DOHC Zetec engine
6. Wipe the indicator clean. Insert the indicator fully, then remove it
again.
²If the oil level isbetween the MIN and MAX marks,the oil level is
acceptable.DO NOT ADD OIL.
²If the oil level is below the MIN
mark, add enough oil to raise the
level within the MIN-MAX range.
²Oil levels above the MAX mark 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.
MAX MIN
Maintenance and Specifications
165

Ford production and aftermarket (Motorcraft) oil filters are designed for
added engine protection and long life. If a replacement oil filter is used
that does not meet Ford material and design specifications, start-up
engine noises or knock may be experienced.
It is recommended you use the appropriate Motorcraft oil filter (or
another brand meeting Ford specifications) for your engine application.
BATTERY
Your vehicle is equipped with a
Motorcraft maintenance-free battery
which normally does not require
additional water during its life of
service.
However, for severe usage or in high temperature climates, check the
battery electrolyte level. Refer to the scheduled maintenance guide for
the service interval schedules.
Keep the electrolyte level in each cell up to the ªlevel indicatorº.
Do not overfill the battery cells.
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.
If your battery has a cover/shield, make sure it is reinstalled
after the battery has been cleaned or replaced.
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 terminals and clean with a wire brush. You can neutralize the
acid with a solution of baking soda and water.
Maintenance and Specifications
167

more pronounced. If the problems persist, see your dealer or a qualified
service technician.
It should not be necessary to add any aftermarket products to your fuel
tank if you continue to use high quality fuel of the recommended octane
rating. Aftermarket products could cause damage to the fuel system.
Repairs to correct the effects of using an aftermarket product in your
fuel may not be covered by your warranty.
Many of the world's automakers
issued the World-wide Fuel Charter
that recommends gasoline
specifications to provide improved
performance and emission control
system protection for your vehicle.
Gasolines that meet the World-wide
Fuel Charter should be used when
available. Ask your fuel supplier
about gasolines that meet the
World-wide Fuel Charter. In Canada,
look for fuels that display theAuto Makers' Choiceylogo.
Cleaner air
Ford endorses the use of reformulated ªcleaner-burningº gasolines to
improve air quality.
Running out of fuel
Avoid running out of fuel because this situation may have an adverse
affect on powertrain components.
If you have run out of fuel:
²You may need to cycle the ignition from OFF to ON several times after
refueling, to allow the fuel system to pump the fuel from the tank to
the engine.
²Your ªService Engine Soonº indicator may come on. For more
information on the ªService Engine Soonº indicator, refer to the
Instrument Clusterchapter.
Fuel Filter
For fuel filter replacement, see your dealer or a qualified service
technician. Refer to the scheduled maintenance guide for the appropriate
intervals for changing the fuel filter.
Maintenance and Specifications
179

CHECKING AND ADDING POWER STEERING FLUID
Check the power steering fluid. Refer to the scheduled maintenance
guide for the service interval schedules. If adding fluid is necessary, use
only MERCONtAT F.
²Coupe
²Sedan
1. Start the engine and let it run until it reaches normal operating
temperature (the engine coolant temperature gauge indicator will be
near the center of the normal area between H and C).
2. While the engine idles, turn the steering wheel left and right several
times.
3. Turn the engine off.
4. Check the fluid level in the reservoir. It should be between the MIN
and MAX lines. Do not add fluid if the level is in this range.
5. If the fluid is low, add fluid in small amounts, continuously checking
the level until it reaches the range between the MIN and MAX lines. Be
sure to put the cap back on the reservoir.
Maintenance and Specifications
185

J
Jack ............................................128
positioning ...............................128
storage .....................................128
Jump-starting your vehicle ......132
K
Keys
key in ignition chime ...............14
positions of the ignition ...........97
L
Lamps
bulb replacement
specifications chart ..................48
cargo lamps ...............................43
daytime running light ...............42
fog lamps ...................................42
headlamps ...........................42, 49
headlamps, flash to pass ..........43
instrument panel, dimming .....43
interior lamps .....................46±49
replacing bulbs .............47, 50±52
Lane change indicator
(see Turn signal) ........................46
Lights, warning and indicator ....10
air bag ........................................12
anti-lock brakes (ABS) ....12, 103
anti-theft ...................................14
brake ..........................................12
charging system ........................12
fuel cap light .............................13
high beam .................................14
low fuel ......................................13
oil pressure ...............................13
safety belt .................................12
service engine soon ..................11
turn signal indicator .................13
Load limits .................................113GAWR ......................................113
GVWR ......................................113
trailer towing ..........................113
Locks
childproof ..................................63
Lubricant specifications ...196, 198
M
Manual transaxle
fluid capacities ........................195
lubricant specifications ..........198
reverse .....................................112
Mirrors
side view mirrors (power) .......56
Moon roof ....................................61
Motorcraft parts ................179, 195
O
Octane rating ............................178
Odometer .....................................17
Oil (see Engine oil) ..................164
P
Panic alarm feature, remote
entry system ................................67
Parking brake ............................104
Parts (see Motorcraft parts) ....195
Power distribution box
(see Fuses) ...............................125
Power door locks ........................63
Power steering ..........................104
fluid, checking and adding ....185
fluid, refill capacity ................195
fluid,
specifications ..................196, 198
Index
208