Page 46 of 224
In AM, FM1, FM2 or SAT (if
equipped) mode:
•Pressorto select preset
stations within the selected radio
band.
In CD (if equipped) mode:
•Pressorto select the next
selection on the CD.
In any mode:
•Press VOL + or to adjust
volume.
Press the PHONE/MUTE control to
mute the playing media. Press again
to return to the playing media.
HOMELINKWIRELESS CONTROL SYSTEM
The HomeLinkWireless Control System, located on the header trim,
provides a convenient way to replace up to three hand-held transmitters
with a single built-in device. This feature will learn the radio frequency
codes of most transmitters to operate garage doors, entry gate operators,
security systems, entry door locks, and home or office lighting.
MUTE
VOL
MEDIA
MUTE
VOL
MEDIA
MUTE
VOL
MEDIA
REVIEW COPY
2005 Thunderbird(tbr), Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)(own2002),
Market:USA_English(fus)
Driver Controls
46
Page 49 of 224

Gate Operator & Canadian Programming
During programming, your
hand-held transmitter may
automatically stop transmitting—
not allowing enough time for
HomeLinkto accept the signal
from the hand-held transmitter.
After completing steps 1 and 2
outlined in the“Programming”
section, replace step 3 with the following:
Note:If programming a garage door opener or gate operator, it is
advised to unplug the device during the“cycling”process to prevent
overheating.
•Continue to press and hold the HomeLinkbutton (note step 3 in the
“Programming”section) while you press and release—every two
seconds(“cycle”) your hand-held transmitter until the frequency
signal has been accepted by the HomeLink. The indicator light will
flash slowly and then rapidly after HomeLinkaccepts the radio
frequency signal.
•Proceed with step 4 in the“Programming”section.
Operating the HomeLinkWireless Control System
To operate, simply press and release
the appropriate HomeLinkbutton.
Activation will now occur for the
trained product (garage door, gate
operator, security system, entry
door lock, or home or office lighting
etc.). For convenience, the
hand-held transmitter of the device
may also be used at any time. In the event that there are still
programming difficulties, contact HomeLinkatwww.homelink.comor
1–800–355–3515.
REVIEW COPY
2005 Thunderbird(tbr), Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)(own2002),
Market:USA_English(fus)
Driver Controls
49
Page 51 of 224

The convertible top will operate with the key in the RUN position,
RUN/ACC position or in the accessory delay mode. It is recommended
that the vehicle’s engine is running when lowering the top to prevent
draining the battery.
2. Check the convertible top stowage compartment behind the seat to be
sure it is empty and ready to receive the top.
3. Press the button on the
convertible top handle and pull the
handle down and forward to release
the clamps from the windshield
header.
4. Push the convertible top
switch on the instrument panel and
hold until the top is completely
stored in the stowage compartment.
5. Push the handle back into the lock position.
Installation of the boot (if equipped)
Be sure the boot is tucked into the quarter panel and upper back panel
and all snaps are fastened before driving.
1. Fasten the snaps on the boot to
the quarter trim panel on both sides
of the vehicle and at the center.
REVIEW COPY
2005 Thunderbird(tbr), Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)(own2002),
Market:USA_English(fus)
Driver Controls
51
Page 54 of 224

9. Push the convertible top handle
back up so that it locks into
position.
Prolonged storage
It may be difficult to pull down and latch the convertible top after
prolonged storage with the top in the down position over the winter or in
colder temperatures. This difficulty will decline over time with warmer
temperatures and the convertible top in the full up or latched position.
Convertible top and padded molding care
To avoid damage to the cloth top and moldings, use only an approved
Ford cleaner, or equivalent. Do not use abrasive material or cleaners.
Wash with a high quality convertible top cleaner/protectant. If your car is
equipped with a light colored convertible top, it will require extra care.
Do not use abrasive material or cleaners.
Hot waxes applied by automatic car washes can affect the cleanability of
cloth material.
Using high water pressure or wand type car washes against the
convertible top and windows may cause water leaks and possible seal
damage.
Note:Ensure that the convertible top is dry before installing the
removable hard top (if equipped) or convertible top staining may occur.
Also, high pressure car washes may cause water to enter the convertible
top well, which may result in the convertible top staining if the top is not
allowed to dry.
REMOVABLE TOP (IF EQUIPPED)
For more information see the CD Rom included with this guide.
REVIEW COPY
2005 Thunderbird(tbr), Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)(own2002),
Market:USA_English(fus)
Driver Controls
54
Page 55 of 224

Installing the removable top
The front screw fittings must be checked to see that they are
firmly seated after driving a distance of approximately 50 to
60 km (30 to 40 miles).
The removable top does not have the same crush resistance as
an integrated steel roof in case of collision or rollover.
The removable top is not, under any circumstances, to be used
to carry or support external loads.
Movement of the removable top requires at least two people.
The removable top weighs approximately 38 kg (84 lb). Also,
due to its shape, the weight is biased to the rear of the removable top.
Your vehicle must be turned OFF and placed in PARK on a level
surface prior to installing or removing the top.
Open the doors, lower the windows, and clean the area where the
removable top mounts on the body. Before installing the removable top,
unsnap and properly store the convertible top boot. Refer toInstallation
of the bootin theConvertiblesection. Also, thoroughly dry the
convertible top and then lower.
Note:Before installing the removable top, apply the protective tape to
the rear deck of the vehicle, refer to theQuick Reference Guidefor
instructions.
1. Remove the protective cover from the top. Using a mild detergent,
clean the weather-strips on the top before installing it on the vehicle.
2. Ensure that the removable top levers are rotated rearward to the fully
open position. Lock the wheels on the storage cart, and with the help of
at least another person remove the top from the cart.
REVIEW COPY
2005 Thunderbird(tbr), Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)(own2002),
Market:USA_English(fus)
Driver Controls
55
Page 57 of 224
6. Partially turn, 1/2 turn forward,
the levers of the top (located in the
rear on the left and right-hand side
of the vehicle).
7. Using the mounting key, loosely
screw in the two screws at the front
of the top by two or three turns.
The two screws are already located
in the windscreen panel of your
vehicle.
8. Turn and lock the levers fully
forward. The levers are locked when
you feel the spring engage and the
levers are pointing toward the front
of the vehicle.
9. Using the mounting key, finish tightening the screws at the front of
the removable top all the way so that they are secure.
The front screw fittings must be checked to see that they are
firmly seated after a distance of approximately 50 to 60 km (30
to 40 miles).
REVIEW COPY
2005 Thunderbird(tbr), Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)(own2002),
Market:USA_English(fus)
Driver Controls
57
Page 58 of 224
Removing the top
It is recommended that you prepare the storage rack before removing
the top. SeeRemovable top storage rackin this section.
1. Take the mounting key from the bag located in the trunk.
2. Using the mounting key, loosen
the two screws at the front of the
top. The two screws remain
undetachable in the windscreen
panel of your vehicle.
3. Undo the locking levers at the
rear right and left sides of the
vehicle. Rotate the levers rearward
while applying a slight upward force
to the top.
4. With the aid of a second person,
lift the top off the vehicle and store
it as described inRemovable top
storagein the chapter.
5. Push the two screws down into
the windscreen panel of your
vehicle.
Removable top storage rack
It is recommended that you prepare the storage rack prior to removing
the top from the vehicle.
REVIEW COPY
2005 Thunderbird(tbr), Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)(own2002),
Market:USA_English(fus)
Driver Controls
58
Page 59 of 224
1. Remove the storage rack from the package and place the bumper end
of the uprights on the floor with the wheels facing you.
2. Locate the two chrome locking
buttons on each of the two rack
legs.
3. Firmly squeeze the two chrome
buttons (top and bottom) on one
leg and rotate the leg toward you
until the leg snaps into place.
4. Squeeze the second set of chrome
buttons (top and bottom) for the
opposite leg until the leg snaps into
place.
5. Turn the rack over on its wheels
and place the removable top storage
rack on a flat level surface. Make
sure the center“T”section is fully
locked by attempting to move the
section downward without
depressing the chrome locking
buttons.
6. Lock the two front wheels located
on the ends of each of the two rack
legs.
7. To lock the wheels, push down on
the bottom part of the plastic tab
located on the tip of each wheel.
REVIEW COPY
2005 Thunderbird(tbr), Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)(own2002),
Market:USA_English(fus)
Driver Controls
59