IF THE ENGINE WON’T CRANK
Turn on the headlights. If the lights are dim, do not go on at all or if
when the ignition is turned to START the lights become dim or go out,
the battery connections may be loose or corroded, or the battery may be
discharged. If there is a clicking or stuttering sound coming from the
engine compartment when you turn the key to START, this may also
indicate a loose or corroded battery connection.
Check the battery connections at the battery posts, cable connection to
the engine grounding point and at the starter connection.
If a discharged battery is suspected, have it checked and corrected.
•For vehicles with manual transmissions, the clutch pedalmustbe fully
depressed in order for the starter to operate.
•For vehicles with automatic transmissions, the gearshift lever must be
in Park or Neutral in order for the starter to operate.
•Try operating the starter switch several times. Should the switch be
corroded, this operation may clean the contacts or make the switch
temporarily operable until you can reach the dealer.
•If all electrical connections are tight and you need assistance to start,
seeJump Startingin theRoadside emergencieschapter of your
owner guide.
IF ENGINE CRANKS BUT WON’T START
Prolonged starter cranking (in excess of 30 seconds) could cause
damage to the starter motor.
•Check the fuel gauge. You may be out of fuel. If the gauge shows that
there is fuel in the tank, the trouble may be in the electrical system or
the fuel system. If equipped with an auxiliary tank, be sure that the
tank control switch is set for the tank with fuel and not on an empty
tank.
•Leaving the ignition key ON for over two minutes without starting may
make starting difficult because the glow plugs will cease activation.
Reset the system by turning the ignition key to OFF and then back to
ON again.
Minor troubleshooting guide
40
Protecting your investment
Maintenance is an investment that will pay dividends in the form of
improved reliability, durability and resale value. To assure the proper
performance of your vehicle and its emission control systems, it is
imperative that scheduled maintenance be completed at the designated
intervals.
Ford strongly recommends the use of genuine Ford replacement parts.
Parts other than Ford, Motorcraft or Ford authorized remanufactured
parts that are used for maintenance replacement or for the service of
components affecting emission control must be equivalent to genuine
Ford Motor Company parts in performance and durability. It is the
owner’s responsibility to determine the equivalency of such parts. Please
consult your Warranty Guide for complete warranty information.
Quality Care - one stop for all your maintenance needs
When you need maintenance for your Ford, Lincoln or Mercury vehicle,
there’s only one name to remember: Quality Care, available at your Ford
and Lincoln Mercury dealership. From scheduled maintenance to more
complicated repair work, nobody knows your car or truck better. Protect
your investment by choosing Quality Care service.
The right people
The difference is factory training and equipment, which means nobody is
more qualified to work on your Ford, Lincoln or Mercury than our
Quality Care service technicians. They’ll fix it right the first time.
The right parts
From headlights to taillights and everything in between, nothing fits like
an original. With Quality Care service, you’ll get the parts made
especially for your car or truck–genuine Ford and Motorcraftparts.
The right prices
Our commitment to quality extends to pricing as well as service. Your
Ford and Lincoln Mercury Dealership offers competitive prices on
Genuine Ford and Motorcraftparts and services, making Quality Care a
great value.
WHICH MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE SHOULD YOU FOLLOW?
Owner Checks and Services
Refer to Mileage Intervals for Additional Checks and Services
Certain basic maintenance checks and inspections should be performed by
the owner or a service technician at the intervals indicated. Service
information and supporting specifications are provided in the Owner’s Guide.
General Owner’s Information
48
