2008 Ford Taurus X Owner's Manual
Year:
2008
Make:
Ford
Model:
Taurus X
Rating:
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
1
Introduction
4
PERCHLORATE MATERIAL
4
CONGRATULATIONS
4
SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION
5
Warning symbols in this guide
5
Warning symbols on your vehicle
5
Protecting the environment
5
BREAKING-IN YOUR VEHICLE
5
SPECIAL NOTICES
5
New Vehicle Limited Warranty
5
Special instructions
6
Service Data Recording
6
Event Data Recording
6
Cell phone use
7
Export unique (Non–United States/Canada) vehicle specific information
7
Instrument Cluster
10
WARNING LIGHTS AND CHIMES
10
GAUGES
14
Entertainment Systems
16
AUDIO SYSTEMS
16
Quick start — How to get going
16
Listening to the radio
16
Listening to satellite radio (if equipped)
17
Listening to a CD/MP3 (if equipped)
17
AM/FM Single CD/MP3 satellite compatible sound system (if equipped)
20
Premium/Audiophile AM/FM in-dash six CD/MP3 satellite compatible sound system (if equipped)
28
Auxiliary input jack (Line in)
36
USB port (if equipped)
38
GENERAL AUDIO INFORMATION
39
Satellite radio information (if equipped)
41
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT DVD SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
44
Quick start
45
To play a DVD in the DVD system:
45
To play a CD in the DVD system:
46
To play an MP3 disc in the DVD system:
47
To play an auxiliary source through the DVD system
47
To listen to audio over the headphones (Dual play mode):
48
Using the infrared (IR) wireless headphones:
48
Using wired headphones (not included):
48
To adjust display brightness:
49
DVD player controls
49
Remote control
52
Battery replacement
55
Headphones
56
Wireless headphones
56
Wired headphones
59
Operation
59
Single play/Dual play
59
Operation with an aftermarket audio system (Headphone only mode)
61
Menu mode
61
Angle mode
61
Aspect ratio
62
Language
62
Subtitles
63
Audio CDs
63
Playing MP3 discs
64
MP3 disc quality factors
65
CD, MP3 and CD player care
65
Playing a DVD
66
Slow play
67
Frame by frame
67
Headphone/auxiliary jacks
67
Audio displays
68
Audio interaction
69
Parental control for the DVD system
69
General information
70
Safety information
70
Federal Communication Commission (FCC) Compliance
72
Care and service of the DVD player
72
Environmental extremes
72
Temperature extremes
72
Humidity and moisture condensation
72
Foreign substances
72
Cleaning the liquid crystal display (LCD) flip-down screen
73
Cleaning DVD and CD discs
73
Compatibility with aftermarket audio systems (headphone only mode)
73
NAVIGATION SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
73
SYNC™ SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
73
Climate Controls
74
MANUAL HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
74
Operating tips
75
DUAL ZONE AUTOMATIC TEMPERATURE CONTROL (IF EQUIPPED)
76
Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control with heated seats (if equipped)
78
Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control with rear passenger compartment climate control (if equipped)
80
Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control with heated seats and rear passenger compartment climate control (if equipped)
82
Operating tips
84
AUXILIARY CLIMATE CONTROL (IF EQUIPPED)
85
REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER
86
Lights
87
HEADLAMP CONTROL
87
Autolamp control (if equipped)
87
Autolamps - Programmable exit delay
87
Foglamp control (if equipped)
88
High beams
88
Flash to pass
88
Daytime running lamps (DRL) (if equipped)
89
PANEL DIMMER CONTROL
89
AIMING THE HEADLAMPS
89
Vertical aim adjustment
89
TURN SIGNAL CONTROL
91
INTERIOR LAMPS
91
Dome lamps and map lamps
91
BULB REPLACEMENT
91
Headlamp Condensation
91
Using the right bulbs
92
Replacing the interior bulbs
92
Replacing exterior bulbs
92
Replacing headlamp (low beam and high beam) bulbs
92
Replacing front parking lamp/turn signal bulbs
93
Replacing front sidemarker bulbs
93
Replacing rear stop/park/turn/backup and side marker lamp bulbs
94
Replacing high-mount brake lamp bulbs
95
Replacing license plate lamp bulbs
95
Replacing foglamp bulbs
95
Driver Controls
96
MULTI-FUNCTION LEVER
96
Windshield wiper features (if equipped with Autolamp feature)
96
Rear window wiper/washer controls
96
TILT STEERING WHEEL
97
ILLUMINATED VISOR MIRROR (IF EQUIPPED)
97
INSTRUMENT PANEL STORAGE COMPARTMENT
98
OVERHEAD CONSOLE
98
Storage compartment
98
Conversation mirror (if equipped)
99
CENTER CONSOLE
99
AUXILIARY POWER POINT (12VDC)
100
POWER WINDOWS
101
One touch up or down (Driver’s window only)
102
Window lock
102
Bounce-Back (Driver’s window only)
103
Security Override
103
Accessory delay
103
INTERIOR MIRROR
103
Automatic dimming interior rear view mirror (if equipped)
103
EXTERIOR MIRRORS
104
Power side view mirrors
104
Fold-away mirrors
105
Heated outside mirrors (if equipped)
105
POWER ADJUSTABLE FOOT PEDALS (IF EQUIPPED)
105
SPEED CONTROL
106
Setting speed control
106
Disengaging speed control
107
Resuming a set speed
107
Increasing speed while using speed control
107
Reducing speed while using speed control
108
Turning off speed control
108
STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS (IF EQUIPPED)
109
Radio control features
109
MOON ROOF (IF EQUIPPED)
111
HOMELINK WIRELESS CONTROL SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
112
Programming
113
Gate Operator & Canadian Programming
114
Operating the HomeLink Wireless Control System
115
Erasing HomeLink buttons
115
Reprogramming a single HomeLink button
115
MESSAGE CENTER
116
Selectable features
116
Reset
116
Info menu
116
Odometer/Trip odometer
116
Distance to empty (DTE)
116
Average fuel economy (AFE)
117
Trip elapsed drive time
117
Compass display
118
Compass zone adjustment
118
Compass calibration adjustment
119
Setup menu
120
System check
120
Oil life
120
Language
121
Units (English/Metric)
121
Autolamp delay (if equipped)
121
Autolock (if equipped)
122
Autounlock (if equipped)
122
Power Liftgate (if equipped)
122
Easy entry/exit seat (if equipped)
123
System warnings
123
POWER LIFTGATE (PLG) (IF EQUIPPED)
125
MANUAL LIFTGATE
129
CARGO AREA FEATURES
129
Cargo net (if equipped)
129
Cargo van storage compartment (if equipped)
129
LUGGAGE RACK
130
Locks and Security
131
KEYS
131
Recommended handling of the Integrated Keyhead Transmitter (IKT)
131
POWER DOOR LOCKS
132
Smart locks
133
Autolock feature
133
Deactivating/activating autolock feature
133
Power door lock switch autolock enable/disable procedure
134
Keyless entry key pad autolock enable/disable procedure
134
Autounlock feature
135
Deactivating/activating autounlock feature
135
Power door lock switch autounlock enable/disable procedure
135
Keyless entry key pad autounlock enable/disable procedure
136
CHILDPROOF DOOR LOCKS
136
REMOTE ENTRY SYSTEM
137
Unlocking the doors/two stage unlock
138
Locking the doors
139
Car finder
139
Sounding a panic alarm
139
Opening the power liftgate (if equipped)
140
Memory seats/power mirrors/adjustable pedals (if equipped)
140
Activating the memory feature
140
Deactivating the memory feature
141
Replacing the battery
141
Replacing lost Integrated Keyhead Transmitters (IKTs)
142
How to reprogram your Integrated Keyhead Transmitters (IKTs)
142
Illuminated entry
142
Perimeter lamps illuminated entry
143
Deactivating/activating perimeter lamps illuminated entry
143
Illuminated exit
144
Battery saver
144
KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM
145
Programming a personal entry code and keypad association to memory seats, mirrors, and adjustable pedals (if equipped)
145
Erasing personal code
146
Anti-scan feature
146
Unlocking and locking the doors using keyless entry
146
SECURILOCK™ PASSIVE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM
147
Anti-theft indicator
147
Automatic arming
148
Automatic disarming
148
Replacement Integrated Keyless Transmitters (IKT) and coded keys
148
Programming spare keys
148
PERIMETER ALARM SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
150
Arming the system
150
Disarming the system
151
Triggering the anti-theft system
151
Seating and Safety Restraints
152
SEATING
152
Adjustable head restraints
152
Adjusting the front manual seat (if equipped)
153
Using the manual lumbar support (if equipped)
154
Folding down the front passenger seatback
154
Adjusting the front power seat (if equipped)
155
Heated seats (if equipped)
156
Memory seats/power mirrors/adjustable pedals (if equipped)
157
REAR SEATS
157
Head restraints
157
Adjusting second row bucket and bench seat back
158
Adjusting second row seats (if equipped)
159
Accessing the third row seats
159
2nd row power fold and tumble seat
161
Exiting the third row seat
161
Rear heated seats (if equipped)
163
Stowing the third row bench or split bench seat (if equipped)
164
Unstowing the third row seat
165
SAFETY RESTRAINTS
166
Personal Safety System™
166
How does the Personal Safety System™ work?
167
Driver and passenger dual-stage airbag supplemental restraints
167
Front crash severity sensor
167
Driver’s seat position sensor
168
Front passenger sensing system
168
Front safety belt usage sensors
168
Front safety belt pretensioners
169
Front safety belt energy management retractors
169
Determining if the Personal Safety System™ is operational
169
Safety belt precautions
170
Combination lap and shoulder belts
171
Energy Management Feature — Front Outboard
171
Vehicle sensitive mode
172
Automatic locking mode
172
When to use the automatic locking mode
172
How to use the automatic locking mode
172
How to disengage the automatic locking mode
173
Safety belt height adjustment
173
Safety belt pretensioner
174
Safety belt extension assembly
174
Safety belt maintenance
174
Safety belt warning light and indicator chime
175
Conditions of operation
175
Belt-Minder
175
One time disable
178
Deactivating/activating the Belt-Minder feature
178
AIRBAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)
180
Important SRS precautions
181
Children and airbags
182
How does the airbag supplemental restraint system work?
183
Front passenger sensing system
184
Determining if the system is operational
189
Seat-mounted side airbag system
189
How does the side airbag system work?
190
Safety Canopy™ system
191
How does the Safety Canopy™ system work?
192
Determining if the system is operational
194
Disposal of airbags and airbag equipped vehicles (including pretensioners)
194
SAFETY RESTRAINTS FOR CHILDREN
194
Important child restraint precautions
195
Children and safety belts
195
Child booster seats
195
When children should use booster seats
196
Types of booster seats
197
The importance of shoulder belts
198
SAFETY SEATS FOR CHILDREN
199
Child and infant or child safety seats
199
Installing child safety seats with combination lap and shoulder belts
200
Attaching child safety seats with tether straps
203
Front passenger seating position (delivery van only)
204
Rear seating positions
206
Attaching safety seats with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) attachments for child seat anchors
207
Tires, Wheels and Loading
209
NOTICE TO UTILITY VEHICLE AND TRUCK OWNERS
209
VEHICLE CHARACTERISTICS
209
All Wheel Drive (AWD) System (if equipped)
209
How your vehicle differs from other vehicles
210
INFORMATION ABOUT UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADING
211
Treadwear
212
Traction AA A B C
212
Temperature A B C
212
TIRES
212
Glossary of tire terminology
213
INFLATING YOUR TIRES
213
TIRE CARE
216
Inspecting your tires
216
Tire wear
216
Damage
216
U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN)
217
Tire replacement requirements
217
Safety practices
219
Highway hazards
219
Tire and wheel alignment
220
Tire rotation
220
INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE TIRE SIDEWALL
221
Information on “P” type tires
222
Additional information contained on the tire sidewall for “LT” type tires
225
Information on “T” type tires
226
Location of the tire label
226
TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS)
227
Understanding your Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
228
When your temporary spare tire is installed
229
When you believe your system is not operating properly
229
When inflating your tires
230
How temperature affects your tire pressure
230
SNOW TIRES AND CHAINS
231
VEHICLE LOADING – WITH AND WITHOUT A TRAILER
231
TRAILER TOWING
237
Preparing to tow
237
Hitches
237
Safety chains
238
Trailer brakes
238
Trailer lamps
238
Driving while you tow
238
Servicing after towing
239
Trailer towing tips
239
RECREATIONAL TOWING
239
Driving
241
STARTING
241
Positions of the ignition
241
Starting your vehicle
241
Important safety precautions
242
Starting the engine
243
Guarding against exhaust fumes
244
Important ventilating information
244
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (IF EQUIPPED)
244
BRAKES
246
Four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS)
246
Using ABS
246
ABS warning lamp
246
Parking brake
247
ADVANCETRAC STABILITY ENHANCEMENT SYSTEM
248
TRACTION CONTROL™ (IF EQUIPPED)
250
STEERING
251
AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE OPERATION
252
Brake-shift interlock
252
Automatic Transaxle Adaptive Learning
253
Understanding the gearshift positions of the 6–speed automatic transaxle
253
REVERSE SENSING SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
255
ALL WHEEL DRIVE (AWD) SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
258
Driving off-highway with AWD vehicles
258
Basic operating principles
258
If your vehicle goes off the edge of the pavement
258
If your vehicle gets stuck
259
Emergency maneuvers
259
AWD Systems (if equipped)
260
Sand
260
Mud and water
260
Driving on hilly or sloping terrain
261
Driving on snow and ice
262
Maintenance and Modifications
263
DRIVING THROUGH WATER
263
Roadside Emergencies
264
ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
264
Getting roadside assistance
264
Using roadside assistance
265
Roadside coverage beyond basic warranty
265
HAZARD FLASHER CONTROL
265
FUEL PUMP SHUT-OFF SWITCH
266
FUSES AND RELAYS
266
Fuses
266
Standard fuse amperage rating and color
267
Passenger compartment fuse panel
268
Power distribution box
270
CHANGING THE TIRES
273
Dissimilar spare tire/wheel information
274
Stopping and securing the vehicle
276
Removing the spare tire and jack
276
Tire change procedure
277
Stowing the tire and jack
279
WHEEL LUG NUT TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
280
JUMP STARTING
281
Preparing your vehicle
281
Connecting the jumper cables
282
Jump starting
283
Removing the jumper cables
284
WRECKER TOWING
286
Customer Assistance
288
GETTING THE SERVICES YOU NEED
288
At home
288
Away from home
288
Additional Assistance
289
IN CALIFORNIA (U.S. ONLY)
290
THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU (BBB) AUTO LINE PROGRAM (U.S. ONLY)
291
UTILIZING THE MEDIATION/ARBITRATION PROGRAM (CANADA ONLY)
292
FORD EXTENDED SERVICE PLAN
292
GETTING ASSISTANCE OUTSIDE THE U.S. AND CANADA
293
ORDERING ADDITIONAL OWNER’S LITERATURE
294
Obtaining a French owner’s guide
294
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS (U.S. ONLY)
294
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS (CANADA ONLY)
295
Cleaning
296
WASHING THE EXTERIOR
296
WAXING
297
PAINT CHIPS
297
ALUMINUM WHEELS AND WHEEL COVERS
297
ENGINE
298
PLASTIC (NON-PAINTED) EXTERIOR PARTS
299
WINDOWS AND WIPER BLADES
299
INSTRUMENT PANEL/INTERIOR TRIM AND CLUSTER LENS
300
INTERIOR
300
LEATHER SEATS (IF EQUIPPED)
301
UNDERBODY
301
FORD AND LINCOLN MERCURY CAR CARE PRODUCTS
302
Maintenance and Specifications
303
SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS
303
PRECAUTIONS WHEN SERVICING YOUR VEHICLE
303
Working with the engine off
303
Working with the engine on
303
OPENING THE HOOD
304
IDENTIFYING COMPONENTS IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT
305
3.5L V6 ENGINE
305
WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID
306
CHANGING THE WIPER BLADES
307
Changing rear window wiper blade
307
ENGINE OIL
308
Checking the engine oil
308
Adding engine oil
309
Engine oil and filter recommendations
310
Use SAE 5W-20 engine oil
310
BATTERY
311
ENGINE COOLANT
313
Checking engine coolant
313
Adding engine coolant
314
Recycled engine coolant
316
Coolant refill capacity
316
Severe climates
317
FUEL FILTER
317
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT AUTOMOTIVE FUELS
318
Important safety precautions
318
Refueling
319
Fuel Filler Cap
320
Choosing the right fuel
321
Octane recommendations
322
Fuel quality
322
Cleaner air
322
Running out of fuel
322
ESSENTIALS OF GOOD FUEL ECONOMY
323
Measuring techniques
323
Filling the tank
323
Calculating fuel economy
324
Driving style — good driving and fuel economy habits
324
Habits
324
Maintenance
325
Conditions
325
EPA window sticker
326
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
326
On board diagnostics (OBD-II)
327
Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing
328
POWER STEERING FLUID
329
BRAKE FLUID
330
TRANSAXLE FLUID
330
Checking automatic transaxle fluid
330
Low fluid level
331
Correct fluid level
331
High fluid level
331
Adjusting automatic transmission fluid levels
331
AIR FILTER
332
Changing the air filter element
332
MOTORCRAFT PART NUMBERS
333
MAINTENANCE PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS AND CAPACITIES
334
ENGINE DATA
336
Engine drivebelt routing
336
IDENTIFYING YOUR VEHICLE
337
Safety Compliance Certification Label
337
Vehicle identification number (VIN)
337
TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE CODE DESIGNATIONS
338
Accessories
339
GENUINE FORD ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR VEHICLE
339
Exterior style
339
Interior style
339
Lifestyle
339
Peace of mind
340
Index
341
2008 Ford Taurus X Overview
Introduction
The 2008 Ford Taurus X is a full-size crossover SUV that exemplifies family-friendly versatility, blending spacious interiors with robust performance. This vehicle aims to offer comfort and practicality, making it a suitable choice for families or individuals who crave a dynamic lifestyle without sacrificing the essentials of everyday driving. With its sleek exterior design and well-appointed cabin, the Taurus X stands out in a crowded segment, promising reliability and style in equal measure.
Powertrains
Underneath its refined exterior, the 2008 Ford Taurus X boasts a capable 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers an impressive 263 horsepower and 245 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the Taurus X offers smooth acceleration and responsive handling, whether navigating urban roads or embarking on longer journeys. Available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, this model ensures that drivers can select the best option for their driving conditions, enhancing overall traction and performance.
Trims
The 2008 Taurus X comes in three distinctive trims: the base, SEL, and Limited. The base model features essential amenities, while the SEL adds stylish upgrades and enhanced technology. The Limited trim is the pinnacle of luxury, encompassing leather upholstery, advanced audio systems, and premium features to elevate the driving experience.
Features
This crossover is packed with user-friendly features designed for comfort and convenience, including three-row seating for up to seven passengers, ample cargo space, rear climate control, and optional features such as a navigation system and advanced safety technologies. With its emphasis on spaciousness and versatility, the Taurus X is perfect for family outings or transporting sports gear.
Owners Manual
The owner's manual for the 2008 Ford Taurus X serves as a comprehensive guide for new owners. It includes critical information on vehicle operation, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting tips, and safety features, ensuring drivers get the most out of their Taurus X and maintain its longevity and performance.
User manual download
The Ford Taurus X owner manual for the 2008 model year is to be found in PDF downloadable format on this page. The owner manual for the model year 2008 is free and in English, but the repair manuals are usually not easy to get and may cost more.
Posted by, John Mana
Manual Questions
Do you have questions about the 2008 Ford Taurus X owners manual?
Fill the form below and someone will help you!
Fill the form below and someone will help you!