2008 FORD FOCUS power steering

Introduction 4
Instrument Cluster 10
Warning lights and chimes 10
Gauges 15
Entertainment Systems 17
Auxiliary input jack (Line in) 25
USB port 27
Satellite radio information 29
Climate Controls 32
Manual heating and air conditioning 32
Rear window defroster 34
Lights 35
Headlamps 35
Turn signal control 38
Bulb replacement 39
Driver Controls 44
Windshield wiper/washer control 44
Steering wheel adjustment 45
Power windows 46
Mirrors 47
Speed control 49
Moon roof 53
Message center 55
Locks and Security 62
Keys 62
Locks 62
Anti-theft system 71
Table of Contents
1
2008 Focus(foc)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)

Vehicle Symbol Glossary
Power Windows
Front/Rear
Power Window Lockout
Child Safety Door
Lock/UnlockInterior Luggage
Compartment Release
Panic AlarmEngine Oil
Engine CoolantEngine Coolant
Temperature
Do Not Open When HotBattery
Avoid Smoking, Flames,
or SparksBattery Acid
Explosive GasFan Warning
Power Steering FluidMaintain Correct Fluid
LevelMAX
MIN
Service Engine SoonEngine Air Filter
Passenger Compartment
Air FilterJack
Check Fuel CapLow Tire Pressure
Warning
2008 Focus(foc)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Introduction
9

TILT STEERING WHEEL
To adjust the steering wheel:
1. Pull the lever down to unlock the
steering column.
2. While the lever is in the down
position, move the steering wheel
up or down until you find the
desired position.
3. While holding the steering wheel
in place, pull the lever up to its
original position to lock the steering
column.
Never adjust the steering wheel when the vehicle is moving.
CENTER CONSOLE
Your vehicle has a variety of console features. These include:
•Cupholders
•Utility compartment
Use only soft cups in the cupholder. Hard objects can injure you
in a collision.
AUXILIARY POWER POINT (12VDC)
Power outlet is designed for accessory plugs only. Do not insert
any other object in the power outlet as this will damage the
outlet and blow the fuse. Do not hang any type of accessory or
accessory bracket from the plug. Improper use of the power
outlet can cause damage not covered by your warranty.
The auxiliary power points are
located on the instrument panel.
Do not use the power point for
operating the cigarette lighter
element (if equipped).
2008 Focus(foc)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Driver Controls
45

U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN)
Both U.S. and Canada Federal regulations require tire manufacturers to
place standardized information on the sidewall of all tires. This
information identifies and describes the fundamental characteristics of
the tire and also provides a U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number for
safety standard certification and in case of a recall.
This begins with the letters “DOT” and indicates that the tire meets all
federal standards. The next two numbers or letters are the plant code
designating where it was manufactured, the next two are the tire size
code and the last four numbers represent the week and year the tire was
built. For example, the numbers 317 mean the 31st week of 1997. After
2000 the numbers go to four digits. For example, 2501 means the 25th
week of 2001. The numbers in between are identification codes used for
traceability. This information is used to contact customers if a tire defect
requires a recall.
Tire Replacement Requirements
Your vehicle is equipped with tires designed to provide a safe ride and
handling capability.
Only use replacement tires and wheels that are the same size,
load index, speed rating and type (such as P-metric versus
LT-metric or all-season versus all-terrain) as those originally provided
by Ford. The recommended tire and wheel size may be found on either
the Safety Compliance Certification Label or the Tire Label which is
located on the B-Pillar or edge of the driver’s door. If this information
is not found on these labels then you should consult your Ford Dealer.
Use of any tire or wheel not recommended by Ford can affect the
safety and performance of your vehicle, which could result in an
increased risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury
and death. Additionally the use of non-recommended tires and wheels
could cause steering, suspension, axle or transfer case/power transfer
unit failure. If you have questions regarding tire replacement, see an
authorized dealer.
2008 Focus(foc)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
131

STARTING
Positions of the ignition
1. LOCK, locks the steering wheel,
automatic transaxle gearshift lever
and allows key removal.
2. OFF, shuts the engine and all
electrical accessories off without
locking the steering wheel.
3. ON, all electrical circuits
operational. Warning lights
illuminated. Key position when driving.
4. START, cranks the engine. Release the key as soon as the engine
starts.
Preparing to start your vehicle
Engine starting is controlled by the powertrain control system. This
system meets all Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment standard
requirements regulating the impulse electrical field strength of radio
noise.
When starting a fuel-injected engine, don’t press the accelerator before
or during starting. Only use the accelerator when you have difficulty
starting the engine. For more information on starting the vehicle, refer to
Starting the enginein this chapter.
Extended idling at high engine speeds can produce very high
temperatures in the engine and exhaust system, creating the risk
of fire or other damage.
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.
Do not start your vehicle in a closed garage or in other enclosed
areas. Exhaust fumes can be toxic. Always open the garage door
before you start the engine. SeeGuarding against exhaust fumesin
this chapter for more instructions.
2008 Focus(foc)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Driving
150

The Traction Control™ switch is
located on the instrument panel.
The Traction Control™ system will
automatically turn on every time the
ignition is turned off and on.
If you should become stuck in snow
or ice or on a very slippery road
surface, try switching the Traction Control™ system off by pressing the
switch. This may allow excess wheel spin to “dig” the vehicle out and
enable a successful “rocking” maneuver. If you want to turn off the
Traction Control™ system be aware that, for safety reasons, the switch
must be pressed and held for at least one second before the system is
turned off. To re-engage the Traction Control™ system, the button must
again be held for at least one second.
If a system fault is detected, the traction control active light will
illuminate, the Traction Control™ button will not turn the system on or
off and your vehicle should be serviced by an authorized dealer.
STEERING
To help prevent damage to the power steering system:
•Never hold the steering wheel at its furthest turning points (until it
stops) for more than a few seconds when the engine is running.
•Do not operate the vehicle with a low power steering fluid level
(below the MIN mark on the reservoir).
•Some noise is normal during operation. If the noise is excessive, check
for a low power steering fluid level before seeking service by your
authorized dealer.
•Heavy or uneven steering efforts may be caused by a low power
steering fluid level. Check for a low power steering fluid level before
seeking service by your authorized dealer.
•Do not fill the power steering fluid reservoir above the MAX mark on
the reservoir.
If the power steering system breaks down (or if the engine is turned
off), you can steer the vehicle manually, but it takes more effort.
If the steering wanders or pulls, check for:
•an improperly inflated tire
•uneven tire wear
•loose or worn suspension components
2008 Focus(foc)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Driving
158

IDENTIFYING COMPONENTS IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT
2.0L I4 Engine
1. Engine oil filler cap
2. Brake/Clutch fluid reservoir
3. Power Distribution box
4. Battery
5. Air Filter
6. Automatic transaxle fluid dipstick (if equipped)
7. Engine oil dipstick
8. Power steering fluid reservoir
9. Engine coolant reservoir
10. Windshield washer fluid reservoir
2008 Focus(foc)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Maintenance and Specifications
215

How fail-safe cooling works
If the engine begins to overheat:
•The engine coolant temperature gauge will move to the red (hot)
area.
•The “Service Engine Soon” indicator light will illuminate.
If the engine reaches a preset over-temperature condition, the engine
will automatically switch to alternating cylinder operation. Each disabled
cylinder acts as an air pump and cools the engine.
When this occurs the vehicle will still operate. However:
•The engine power will be limited.
•The air conditioning system will be disabled.
Continued operation will increase the engine temperature:
•The engine will completely shut down.
•Steering and braking effort will increase.
Once the engine temperature cools, the engine can be re-started. Take
your vehicle to an authorized dealer as soon as possible to minimize
engine damage.
When fail-safe mode is activated
You have limited engine power when in the fail-safe mode, so drive the
vehicle with caution. The vehicle will not be able to maintain high speed
operation and the engine will run rough. Remember that the engine is
capable of completely shutting down automatically to prevent engine
damage, therefore:
1. Pull off the road as soon as safely possible and turn off the engine.
2. Arrange for the vehicle to be taken to an authorized dealer.
3. If this is not possible, wait a short period for the engine to cool.
4. Check the coolant level and replenish if low.
Never remove the coolant reservoir cap while the engine is
running or hot.
5. Restart the engine and take your vehicle to an authorized dealer.
Driving the vehicle without repairing the engine problem
increases the chance of engine damage. Take your vehicle to an
authorized dealer as soon as possible.
2008 Focus(foc)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Maintenance and Specifications
226