2003 FORD MUSTANG catalytic converter

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.
Check fuel cap
Illuminates when the
fuel cap is not installed
correctly. Check the
fuel cap for proper
installation. When the fuel filler cap is properly
re-installed, the light(s) will turn off after a period of
normal driving. Continuing to operate the vehicle
with the check fuel cap light on, or a mis-installed
fuel cap can activate theService Engine
Soon/Check Enginewarning light.
It may take a long period of time for the
system to detect an improperly installed fuel
filler cap.
For more information, refer toFuel filler capin the
Maintenance and specificationschapter.
CHECK
FUEL
CAP
Instrument Cluster
12

3. Install the lug nut by turning the wrench
clockwise.
JUMP STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
The gases around the battery can explode if
exposed to flames, sparks, or lit cigarettes.
An explosion could result in injury or vehicle
damage.
Batteries contain sulfuric acid which can
burn skin, eyes and clothing, if contacted.
Do not attempt to push-start your vehicle.
Automatic transmissions do not have
push-start capability; also, the catalytic
converter may become damaged.
Preparing your vehicle
When the battery is disconnected or a new battery is
installed, the transmission must relearn its shift
strategy. As a result, the transmission may have firm
and/or soft shifts. This operation is considered
normal and will not affect function or durability of
the transmission. Over time, the adaptive learning
process will fully update transmission operation.
1.Use only a 12–volt supply to start your
vehicle.
2. Do not disconnect the battery of the disabled
vehicle as this could damage the vehicle’s electrical
system.
3. Park the booster vehicle close to the hood of the
disabled vehicle making sure the two vehiclesdo
nottouch. Set the parking brake on both vehicles
and stay clear of the engine cooling fan and other
moving parts.
4. Check all battery terminals and remove any
excessive corrosion before you attach the battery
cables. Ensure the vent caps are tight and level.
5. Turn the heater fan on in both vehicles to protect
any electrical surges. Turn all other accessories off.
Roadside Emergencies
170

•Driving on flat terrain offers improved fuel
economy as compared to driving on hilly terrain.
•Transmissions give their best fuel economy when
operated in the top cruise gear and with steady
pressure on the gas pedal.
•Close windows for high speed driving.
EPA window sticker
Every new vehicle should have the EPA window
sticker. Contact your dealer if the window sticker is
not supplied with your vehicle. The EPA window
sticker should be your guide for the fuel economy
comparisons with other vehicles.
It is important to note the box in the lower left
corner of the window sticker. These numbers
represent the Range of L/100 km (MPG) expected
on the vehicle under optimum conditions. Your fuel
economy may vary depending upon the method of
operation and conditions.
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:
•Use only the specified fuel listed.
•Avoid running out of fuel.
•Do not turn off the ignition while your vehicle is
moving, especially at high speeds.
•Have 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
Maintenance and Specifications
223