Light turns on solid:
Temporary malfunctions may cause the light to
illuminate. Examples are:
1. The vehicle has run out of fuel.
2. Poor fuel quality or water in the fuel.
3. The fuel cap may not have been properly installed
and securely tightened.
These temporary malfunctions can be corrected by
filling the fuel tank with high quality fuel of the
recommended octane and/or properly installing and
securely tightening the fuel cap. After three driving
cycles without these or any other temporary
malfunctions present, the light should turn off. (A
driving cycle consists of a cold engine startup
followed by mixed city/highway driving.) No
additional vehicle service is required.
If the light remains on, have your vehicle serviced at
the first available opportunity.
Light is blinking:
Engine misfire is occurring which could damage your
catalytic converter. You should drive in a moderate
fashion (avoid heavy acceleration and deceleration)
and have your vehicle serviced at the first available
opportunity.
Under engine misfire conditions, excessive
exhaust temperatures could damage the
catalytic converter, the fuel system, interior floor
coverings or other vehicle components, possibly
causing a fire.
Instrument Cluster
12
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 the specified fuel listed.
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 scheduled
maintenance guide performed according to the
specified schedule.
The scheduled maintenance items listed in the
scheduled maintenance guide 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.
Illumination of the ªService Engine Soonº light,
charging system warning light or the temperature
warning light, fluid leaks, strange odors, smoke or
loss of engine power, could indicate that the
emission control system is not working properly.
Exhaust leaks may result in entry of harmful
and potentially lethal fumes into the
passenger compartment.
Maintenance and Specifications
232
