2008 FORD CROWN VICTORIA warning

•The anti-lock system does not reduce stopping distance. Always leave
enough room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you to
stop.
•We recommend that you familiarize yourself with this braking
technique. However, avoid taking any unnecessary risks.
ABS warning lamp
The ABS warning lamp in the
instrument cluster momentarily
illuminates when the ignition is
turned on. If the light does not
illuminate momentarily at start up,
remains on or continues to flash, the ABS needs to be serviced.
With the ABS light on, the anti-lock
brake system is disabled and normal
braking is still effective unless the
brake warning light also remains
illuminated with parking brake
released. (If your brake warning lamp illuminates, have your vehicle
serviced immediately.)
Parking brake with auto-release (if equipped)
Apply the parking brake whenever
the vehicle is parked.
To set the parking brake:
1. Move the gearshift to P (Park).
2. Push pedal downward.
The BRAKE warning lamp in the
instrument cluster illuminates and
remains illuminated (when the
ignition is turned ON) until the
parking brake is fully released.
Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is
latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the OFF/LOCK position
and remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.
ABS
P!
BRAKE
HOOD
P!
BRAKE
2008 Crown Victoria(cro)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Driving
182

If the amount of effort required to steer your vehicle changes while
driving at a constant vehicle speed, have the power steering system
checked by your authorized dealer.
AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
The air suspension system is designed to improve ride, handling and
general vehicle performance during:
•Certain road conditions
•Steering maneuvers
•Braking
•Accelerations
This system keeps the rear of your vehicle at a constant level by
automatically adding air or releasing air from the springs.
If you exceed the load limit, the rear air suspension may not operate.
The air suspension shut-off switch is
located on the left side of the trunk.
If this switch is in the OFF position,
the rear air suspension will not
operate.
On vehicles equipped with
Air Suspension, turn OFF
the Air Suspension switch prior to
jacking, hoisting or towing your
vehicle.
Normal vehicle operation does not
require any action by the driver.
TRACTION-LOK™ AXLE (IF EQUIPPED)
This axle provides added traction on slippery surfaces, particularly when
one wheel is on a poor traction surface. Under normal conditions, the
Traction-Lok™ axle functions like a standard rear axle.
Extended use of other than the manufacturer’s specified size tires on a
Traction-Lok™ rear axle could result in a permanent reduction in
effectiveness. This loss of effectiveness does not affect normal driving
and should not be noticeable to the driver.
AIR SUSPENSION
SWITCH
INTERRUPTEUR DE
LA SUSPENSION
PNEUMATIQUE
WARNING
AVERTISSEMENTOFF-ARRET
To prevent sudden
vehicle movement,
turn off air suspen-
sion switch prior to
jacking, hoisting or
towing vehicle.
Pour prévenir tout mouvement soudain du véhi-
cule, placer à l'arrêt l'interrupteur de la suspension
pneumatique avant de lever le véhicule (cric ou
pont élévateur) ou de le remorquer.
OFF
2008 Crown Victoria(cro)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Driving
186

If the parking brake is fully released, but the brake warning lamp
remains illuminated, the brakes may not be working properly.
See your authorized dealer.
Brake-shift interlock – floor-shift transmission
This vehicle is equipped with a brake-shift interlock feature that prevents
the gearshift lever from being moved from P (Park) when the ignition is
in the ON position unless the brake pedal is depressed.
If you cannot move the gearshift lever out of P (Park) with ignition in
the ON position and the brake pedal depressed:
1. Apply the parking brake, turn ignition key to LOCK, then remove the
key.
2. Insert the key and turn it to ACC.Apply the brake pedal and shift
to N (Neutral).
When the key is in the ignition and in the ACC position, the
automatic transmission shift lever can be moved from the P
(Park) position without the brake pedal depressed. To avoid unwanted
vehicle movement, always set the parking brake.
3. Start the vehicle.
If it is necessary to use the above procedure to move the gearshift lever,
it is possible that a fuse has blown or the vehicle’s brakelamps are not
operating properly. Refer toFuses and relaysin theRoadside
Emergencieschapter.
Do not drive your vehicle until you verify that the brakelamps
are working.
Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is
latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the LOCK position and
remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.
If the parking brake is fully released, but the brake warning lamp
remains illuminated, the brakes may not be working properly.
See your authorized dealer.
2008 Crown Victoria(cro)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Driving
188

•Normally, adding 1 gallon (3.8L) of fuel is enough to restart the
engine. If the vehicle is out of fuel and on a steep grade, more than 1
gallon (3.8L) may be required.
•The
indicator may come on. For more information on the “check
engine” or the “service engine soon” indicator, refer toWarning lights
and chimesin theInstrument Clusterchapter.
ESSENTIALS OF GOOD FUEL ECONOMY
Measuring techniques
Your best source of information about actual fuel economy is you, the
driver. You must gather information as accurately and consistently as
possible. Fuel expense, frequency of fill-ups or fuel gauge readings are
NOT accurate as a measure of fuel economy. We do not recommend
taking fuel economy measurements during the first 1,000 miles (1,600
km) of driving (engine break-in period). You will get a more accurate
measurement after 2,000 miles–3,000 miles (3,000 km–5,000 km).
Filling the tank
The advertised fuel capacity of the fuel tank on your vehicle is equal to
the rated refill capacity of the fuel tank as listed in theMaintenance
product specifications and capacitiessection of this chapter.
The advertised capacity is the amount of the indicated capacity and the
empty reserve combined. Indicated capacity is the difference in the
amount of fuel in a full tank and a tank when the fuel gauge indicates
empty. Empty reserve is the small amount of fuel remaining in the fuel
tank after the fuel gauge indicates empty.
The amount of usable fuel in the empty reserve varies and should
not be relied upon to increase driving range. When refueling your
vehicle after the fuel gauge indicates empty, you might not be
able to refuel the full amount of the advertised capacity of the
fuel tank due to the empty reserve still present in the tank.
For consistent results when filling the fuel tank:
•Turn the engine/ignition switch to the off position prior to refueling,
an error in the reading will result if the engine is left running.
•Use the same filling rate setting (low — medium — high) each time
the tank is filled.
•Allow no more than two automatic click-offs when filling.
•Always use fuel with the recommended octane rating.
2008 Crown Victoria(cro)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Maintenance and Specifications
254

•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
authorized 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 MPG (L/100 km)
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 inscheduled maintenance information
performed according to the specified schedule.
The scheduled maintenance items listed inscheduled maintenance
informationare 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
indicator, 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.
2008 Crown Victoria(cro)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Maintenance and Specifications
257

BRAKE FLUID
The fluid level will drop slowly as
the brakes wear, and will rise when
the brake components are replaced.
Fluid levels below the “MAX” line
that do not trigger the brake system
warning lamp are within the normal
operating range, there is no need to
add fluid. If the fluid levels are outside of the normal operating range,
the performance of your brake system could be compromised, seek
service from your authorized dealer immediately.
TRANSMISSION FLUID
Checking automatic transmission fluid (if equipped)
Refer to yourscheduled maintenance informationfor scheduled
intervals for fluid checks and changes. Your transmission does not
consume fluid. However, the fluid level should be checked if the
transmission is not working properly, i.e., if the transmission slips or
shifts slowly or if you notice some sign of fluid leakage.
Automatic transmission fluid expands when warmed. To obtain an
accurate fluid check, drive the vehicle until it is at normal operating
temperature (approximately 20 miles [30 km]). If your vehicle has been
operated for an extended period at high speeds, in city traffic during hot
weather or pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be turned off for about 30
minutes to allow fluid to cool before checking.
1. Drive the vehicle 20 miles (30 km) or until it reaches normal operating
temperature.
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
3. With the parking brake engaged and your foot on the brake pedal,
start the engine and move the gearshift lever through all of the gear
ranges. Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage.
4. Latch the gearshift lever in P (Park) and leave the engine running.
5. Remove the dipstick, wiping it clean with a clean, dry lint free rag. If
necessary, refer toIdentifying components in the engine compartment
in this chapter for the location of the dipstick.
6. Install the dipstick making sure it is fully seated in the filler tube.
7. Remove the dipstick and inspect the fluid level. The fluid should be in
the designated area for normal operating temperature or ambient
temperature.
M
AX
2008 Crown Victoria(cro)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Maintenance and Specifications
261

A
ABS (see Brakes) .....................181
Air cleaner filter ...............263–264
Air conditioning ..........................35
Air suspension ...........................186
description ..............................186
Airbag supplemental restraint
system ................................121, 130
and child safety seats ............123
description ......................121, 130
disposal ....................................133
driver airbag ....................123, 131
indicator light .................130, 132
operation .........................123, 131
passenger airbag .............123, 131
side airbag ...............................130
Antifreeze
(see Engine coolant) ................241
Anti-lock brake system
(see Brakes) ..............................181
Anti-theft system ..................95, 99
arming the system ..................100
disarming a triggered
system .....................................100
Audio system
(see Radio) ................18, 20, 23, 28
Automatic transmission
driving an automatic
overdrive .................................189
fluid, adding ............................261
fluid, checking ........................261
fluid, refill capacities ..............266
fluid, specification ..................266
Auxiliary power point .................62
Axle
lubricant specifications ..........266
refill capacities ........................266traction lok ..............................186
B
Battery .......................................239
acid, treating emergencies .....239
jumping a disabled battery ....211
maintenance-free ....................239
replacement, specifications ...264
servicing ..................................239
Belt-Minder.............................116
Booster seats .............................134
Brakes ................................180–181
anti-lock ...................................181
anti-lock brake system (ABS)
warning light ...........................182
fluid, checking and adding ....261
fluid, refill capacities ..............266
fluid, specifications .................266
lubricant specifications ..........266
shift interlock ..................187–188
Bulbs ............................................44
C
Capacities for refilling fluids ....266
Cell phone use ..............................7
Child safety restraints ..............133
child safety belts ....................133
Child safety seats ......................137
attaching with tether straps ..141
in front seat ............................138
in rear seat ..............................138
Child safety seats - booster
seats ...........................................134
Cleaning your vehicle
engine compartment ..............226
instrument panel ....................228
interior .....................................229
2008 Crown Victoria(cro)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Index
274

plastic parts ............................227
washing ....................................225
waxing .....................................226
wheels ......................................226
wiper blades ............................228
Climate control (see Air
conditioning or Heating) ............35
Clock adjust
6-CD in dash .............................31
AM/FM .......................................19
AM/FM/CD .................................22
AM/FM/Tape/CD .......................26
Compass, electronic
set zone adjustment .................55
Console ........................................53
overhead ..............................53–54
Controls
power seat ...............................103
steering column ........................69
Coolant
checking and adding ..............241
refill capacities ................245, 266
specifications ..........................266
Cruise control
(see Speed control) ....................66
Cupholder(s) .............................106
Customer Assistance ................192
Ford Extended Service
Plan ..........................................221
Getting assistance outside the
U.S. and Canada .....................222
Getting roadside assistance ...192
Getting the service you
need .........................................217
Ordering additional owner’s
literature .................................223
Utilizing the
Mediation/Arbitration
Program ...................................221D
Daytime running lamps
(see Lamps) ................................39
Defrost
rear window ..............................37
Dipstick
automatic transmission
fluid ..........................................261
engine oil .................................236
Driving under special
conditions ..................................191
through water .........................191
E
Electronic message center .........75
Emergencies, roadside
jump-starting ..........................211
Emission control system ..........257
Engine ........................................269
cleaning ...................................226
coolant .....................................241
fail-safe cooling .......................246
idle speed control ...................239
lubrication specifications .......266
refill capacities ........................266
service points ..........................234
starting after a collision .........194
Engine block heater .................178
Engine oil ..................................236
change oil soon warning,
message center .......................236
checking and adding ..............236
dipstick ....................................236
filter, specifications ........238, 264
recommendations ...................238
refill capacities ........................266
specifications ..........................266
Event data recording ....................6
2008 Crown Victoria(cro)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Index
275