2008 Ford Taurus Owner's Manual
Year:
2008
Make:
Ford
Model:
Taurus
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
38
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:
46
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
55
Wireless headphones
55
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
64
CD, MP3 and CD player care
65
Playing a DVD
66
Slow play
66
Frame by frame
67
Headphone/auxiliary jacks
67
Audio displays
68
Audio interaction
68
Parental control for the DVD system
68
General information
69
Safety information
70
Federal Communication Commission (FCC) Compliance
71
Care and service of the DVD player
71
Environmental extremes
71
Temperature extremes
72
Humidity and moisture condensation
72
Foreign substances
72
Cleaning the liquid crystal display (LCD) flip-down screen
72
Cleaning DVD and CD discs
72
Compatibility with aftermarket audio systems (headphone only mode)
72
NAVIGATION SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
73
SYNC (LATE AVAILABILITY — 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
Operating tips
79
REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER
80
Lights
81
HEADLAMP CONTROL
81
Autolamp control (if equipped)
81
Autolamps - Programmable exit delay
81
Fog lamp control (if equipped)
82
High beams
82
Flash to pass
83
Daytime running lamps (DRL) (if equipped)
83
PANEL DIMMER CONTROL
83
AIMING THE HEADLAMPS
84
Vertical aim adjustment
84
TURN SIGNAL CONTROL
85
INTERIOR LAMPS
85
Dome lamps and map lamps
85
BULB REPLACEMENT
86
Headlamp Condensation
86
Using the right bulbs
86
Replacing the interior bulbs
87
Replacing exterior bulbs
87
Replacing headlamp (low beam) bulbs
87
Replacing headlamp (high beam) bulbs
87
Replacing front parking lamp/turn signal/sidemarker bulbs
88
Replacing rear brake/tail/turn/backup and side marker lamp bulbs
89
Replacing high-mount brake lamp bulbs
89
Replacing license plate lamp bulbs
90
Replacing fog lamp bulbs
90
Driver Controls
91
MULTI-FUNCTION LEVER
91
Windshield wiper features (if equipped with Autolamp feature)
91
TILT STEERING WHEEL
92
ILLUMINATED VISOR MIRROR (IF EQUIPPED)
92
INSTRUMENT PANEL STORAGE COMPARTMENT
93
OVERHEAD CONSOLE
93
Storage compartment
93
CLOCK (IF EQUIPPED)
93
CENTER CONSOLE
94
AUXILIARY POWER POINT (12VDC)
94
POWER WINDOWS
95
One touch up or down (Driver’s window only)
96
Window lock
97
Bounce-Back (Driver’s window only)
97
Security Override
97
Accessory delay
97
INTERIOR MIRROR
97
Automatic dimming interior rear view mirror (if equipped)
98
EXTERIOR MIRRORS
98
Power side view mirrors
98
Fold-away mirrors
99
Heated outside mirrors (if equipped)
99
POWER ADJUSTABLE FOOT PEDALS (IF EQUIPPED)
99
SPEED CONTROL
100
Setting speed control
100
Disengaging speed control
101
Resuming a set speed
101
Increasing speed while using speed control
102
Reducing speed while using speed control
102
Turning off speed control
103
STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS (IF EQUIPPED)
103
Radio control features
103
MOON ROOF (IF EQUIPPED)
105
HOMELINK WIRELESS CONTROL SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
106
Programming
107
Gate Operator & Canadian Programming
108
Operating the HomeLink Wireless Control System
109
Erasing HomeLink buttons
109
Reprogramming a single HomeLink button
109
MESSAGE CENTER
110
Selectable features
110
Reset
110
Info menu
110
Odometer/Trip odometer
110
Distance to empty (DTE)
110
Average fuel economy (AFE)
111
Trip elapsed drive time
111
Compass display
112
Compass zone adjustment
112
Compass calibration adjustment
113
Setup menu
114
System check
114
Oil life
114
Language
115
Units (English/Metric)
115
Autolamp delay (if equipped)
115
Autolock (if equipped)
116
Autounlock (if equipped)
116
Easy entry/exit seat (if equipped)
116
System warnings
116
INTERIOR TRUNK CONTROL
119
Rear sunshade (if equipped)
119
CARGO AREA FEATURES
120
Cargo net (if equipped)
120
Locks and Security
121
KEYS
121
Recommended handling of the Integrated Keyhead Transmitter (IKT)
121
POWER DOOR LOCKS
122
Smart locks
123
Autolock feature
123
Deactivating/activating autolock feature
123
Power door lock switch autolock enable/disable procedure
124
Keyless entry key pad autolock enable/disable procedure
124
Autounlock feature
125
Deactivating/activating autounlock feature
125
Power door lock switch autounlock enable/disable procedure
125
Keyless entry key pad autounlock enable/disable procedure
126
CHILDPROOF DOOR LOCKS
126
INTERIOR LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT RELEASE
127
REMOTE ENTRY SYSTEM
128
Unlocking the doors/two stage unlock
129
Locking the doors
129
Car finder
129
Sounding a panic alarm
129
Opening the trunk
1
Activating the memory feature
1
Deactivating the memory feature
1
Replacing the battery
131
Replacing lost Integrated Keyhead Transmitters (IKTs)
131
How to reprogram your Integrated Keyhead Transmitters (IKTs)
131
Illuminated entry
132
Perimeter lamps illuminated entry
132
Deactivating/activating perimeter lamps illuminated entry
132
Illuminated exit
133
Battery saver
133
KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM
134
Programming a personal entry code and keypad association to memory seats and mirrors (if equipped)
134
Erasing personal code
135
Anti-scan feature
135
Unlocking and locking the doors using keyless entry
135
SECURILOCK™ PASSIVE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM
135
Anti-theft indicator
136
Automatic arming
136
Automatic disarming
137
Replacement Integrated Keyless Transmitters (IKT) and coded keys
137
Programming spare keys
137
PERIMETER ALARM SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
139
Arming the system
139
Disarming the system
140
Triggering the anti-theft system
140
Seating and Safety Restraints
141
SEATING
141
Adjustable head restraints
141
Using the manual lumbar support (if equipped)
142
Folding down the front passenger seatback
142
Adjusting the front manual seat (if equipped)
143
Adjusting the front power seat (if equipped)
144
Heated seats (if equipped)
146
Memory seats/power mirrors/adjustable pedals (if equipped)
147
REAR SEATS
147
Head restraints (if equipped)
147
Split-folding rear seat
148
Seat mounted cup holders and armrest storage compartment (if equipped)
149
SAFETY RESTRAINTS
149
Personal Safety System™
149
How does the Personal Safety System™ work?
150
Driver and passenger dual-stage airbag supplemental restraints
150
Front crash severity sensor
150
Driver’s seat position sensor
151
Front passenger sensing system
151
Front safety belt usage sensors
151
Front safety belt pretensioners
152
Front safety belt energy management retractors
152
Determining if the Personal Safety System™ is operational
152
Safety belt precautions
153
Combination lap and shoulder belts
154
Energy Management Feature — Front Outboard
154
Vehicle sensitive mode
155
Automatic locking mode
155
When to use the automatic locking mode
155
How to use the automatic locking mode
155
How to disengage the automatic locking mode
156
Safety belt height adjustment
156
Safety belt pretensioner
157
Safety belt extension assembly
157
Safety belt maintenance
157
Safety belt warning light and indicator chime
158
Conditions of operation
158
Belt-Minder
158
One time disable
161
Deactivating/activating the Belt-Minder feature
161
AIRBAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)
162
Important supplemental restraint system precautions
163
Children and airbags
164
How does the airbag supplemental restraint system work?
165
Front passenger sensing system
166
Determining if the system is operational
171
Seat-mounted side airbag system
171
How does the side airbag system work?
172
Safety Canopy™ system
173
How does the Safety Canopy™ system work?
174
Determining if the system is operational
176
Disposal of airbags and airbag equipped vehicles
176
SAFETY RESTRAINTS FOR CHILDREN
176
Important child restraint precautions
177
Children and safety belts
177
Child booster seats
177
When children should use booster seats
178
Types of booster seats
179
The importance of shoulder belts
180
SAFETY SEATS FOR CHILDREN
181
Child and infant or child safety seats
181
Installing child safety seats with combination lap and shoulder belts
182
Attaching child safety seats with tether straps
185
Attaching safety seats with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) attachments for child seat anchors
186
Tires, Wheels and Loading
189
INFORMATION ABOUT UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADING
189
Treadwear
189
Traction AA A B C
189
Temperature A B C
190
TIRES
190
Glossary of tire terminology
190
INFLATING YOUR TIRES
191
TIRE CARE
193
Inspecting your tires
193
Tire wear
194
Damage
194
U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN)
195
Tire replacement requirements
195
Safety practices
196
Highway hazards
197
Tire and wheel alignment
197
Tire rotation
197
INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE TIRE SIDEWALL
199
Information on “P” type tires
199
Additional information contained on the tire sidewall for “LT” type tires
202
Information on “T” type tires
203
Location of the tire label
203
TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS)
204
Understanding your Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
205
When your temporary spare tire is installed
206
When you believe your system is not operating properly
206
When inflating your tires
208
How temperature affects your tire pressure
209
SNOW TIRES AND CHAINS
209
VEHICLE LOADING – WITH AND WITHOUT A TRAILER
210
TRAILER TOWING
216
Preparing to tow
216
Hitches
216
Safety chains
216
Trailer brakes
217
Trailer lamps
217
Driving while you tow
217
Servicing after towing
217
Trailer towing tips
218
RECREATIONAL TOWING
218
Driving
220
STARTING
220
Positions of the ignition
220
Starting your vehicle
220
Important safety precautions
221
Starting the engine
222
Guarding against exhaust fumes
223
Important ventilating information
223
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (IF EQUIPPED)
223
BRAKES
225
Four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS)
225
Using ABS
225
ABS warning lamp
225
Parking brake
226
ADVANCETRAC (ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL) (IF EQUIPPED)
227
TRACTION CONTROL™ (IF EQUIPPED)
229
STEERING
230
AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE OPERATION
231
Brake-shift interlock
231
Automatic Transaxle Adaptive Learning
232
Understanding the gearshift positions of the 6–speed automatic transaxle
233
REVERSE SENSING SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
235
ALL WHEEL DRIVE (AWD) SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
237
Driving off-highway with AWD vehicles
237
Basic operating principles
237
If your vehicle goes off the edge of the pavement
237
If your vehicle gets stuck
238
Emergency maneuvers
238
AWD Systems (if equipped)
239
Sand
239
Mud and water
239
Driving on hilly or sloping terrain
240
Driving on snow and ice
241
Maintenance and Modifications
242
DRIVING THROUGH WATER
242
Roadside Emergencies
243
ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
243
Getting roadside assistance
243
Using roadside assistance
244
Roadside coverage beyond basic warranty
244
HAZARD FLASHER CONTROL
245
FUEL PUMP SHUT-OFF SWITCH
245
FUSES AND RELAYS
246
Fuses
246
Standard fuse amperage rating and color
246
Passenger compartment fuse panel
247
Power distribution box
249
CHANGING THE TIRES
252
Dissimilar spare tire/wheel information
253
Stopping and securing the vehicle
255
Removing the spare tire and jack
255
Tire change procedure
255
Stowing the tire and jack
258
WHEEL LUG NUT TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
259
JUMP STARTING
260
Preparing your vehicle
260
Connecting the jumper cables
261
Jump starting
262
Removing the jumper cables
263
WRECKER TOWING
265
Customer Assistance
267
GETTING THE SERVICES YOU NEED
267
At home
267
Away from home
267
Additional Assistance
268
IN CALIFORNIA (U.S. ONLY)
269
THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU (BBB) AUTO LINE PROGRAM (U.S. ONLY)
270
UTILIZING THE MEDIATION/ARBITRATION PROGRAM (CANADA ONLY)
271
FORD EXTENDED SERVICE PLAN
271
GETTING ASSISTANCE OUTSIDE THE U.S. AND CANADA
272
ORDERING ADDITIONAL OWNER’S LITERATURE
273
Obtaining a French owner’s guide
273
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS (U.S. ONLY)
273
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS (CANADA ONLY)
274
Cleaning
275
WASHING THE EXTERIOR
275
WAXING
276
PAINT CHIPS
276
ALUMINUM WHEELS AND WHEEL COVERS
276
ENGINE
277
3.5L ENGINE
277
PLASTIC (NON-PAINTED) EXTERIOR PARTS
277
WINDOWS AND WIPER BLADES
278
INSTRUMENT PANEL/INTERIOR TRIM AND CLUSTER LENS
279
INTERIOR
279
LEATHER SEATS (IF EQUIPPED)
280
UNDERBODY
280
FORD AND LINCOLN MERCURY CAR CARE PRODUCTS
281
Maintenance and Specifications
282
SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS
282
PRECAUTIONS WHEN SERVICING YOUR VEHICLE
282
Working with the engine off
282
Working with the engine on
282
OPENING THE HOOD
283
IDENTIFYING COMPONENTS IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT
284
3.5L V6 ENGINE
284
WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID
285
CHANGING THE WIPER BLADES
286
ENGINE OIL
286
Checking the engine oil
286
Adding engine oil
288
Engine oil and filter recommendations
288
Use SAE 5W-20 engine oil
288
BATTERY
289
ENGINE COOLANT
291
Checking engine coolant
291
Adding engine coolant
292
Recycled engine coolant
295
Coolant refill capacity
295
Severe climates
295
FUEL FILTER
296
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT AUTOMOTIVE FUELS
296
Important safety precautions
296
Refueling
298
Fuel Filler Cap
298
Choosing the right fuel
299
Octane recommendations
300
Fuel quality
300
Cleaner air
301
Running out of fuel
301
ESSENTIALS OF GOOD FUEL ECONOMY
301
Measuring techniques
301
Filling the tank
301
Calculating fuel economy
302
Driving style — good driving and fuel economy habits
303
Habits
303
Maintenance
303
Conditions
303
EPA window sticker
304
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
304
On board diagnostics (OBD-II)
305
Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing
306
POWER STEERING FLUID
307
BRAKE FLUID
308
TRANSAXLE FLUID
308
Checking automatic transaxle fluid
308
Low fluid level
309
Correct fluid level
309
High fluid level
309
Adjusting automatic transmission fluid levels
309
AIR FILTER
310
Changing the air filter element
310
MOTORCRAFT PART NUMBERS
311
MAINTENANCE PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS AND CAPACITIES
312
ENGINE DATA
315
Engine drivebelt routing
315
IDENTIFYING YOUR VEHICLE
316
Safety Compliance Certification Label
316
Vehicle identification number (VIN)
316
TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE CODE DESIGNATIONS
317
Accessories
318
GENUINE FORD ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR VEHICLE
318
Exterior style
318
Interior style
318
Lifestyle
318
Peace of mind
319
Index
320
2008 Ford Taurus Overview
Introduction
The 2008 Ford Taurus marks a new era for Ford's full-size sedan, as it combines style, comfort, and practicality into an impressive package. Offering a modern design language that aims to capture the preferences of contemporary drivers, this model serves not only as a reliable vehicle but also as a statement of sophistication. With its spacious interior and numerous safety features, the Taurus is well-suited for families or anyone who appreciates a roomy ride.
Powertrains
The 2008 Ford Taurus comes with two robust powertrain options, ensuring a smooth and responsive driving experience. The standard engine is a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 263 horsepower, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission for seamless shifting. Additionally, an optional 3.5-liter Duratec engine is available, providing enhanced power while maintaining fuel efficiency. For those seeking better traction, an all-wheel-drive system can be selected, making the Taurus a versatile choice for various driving conditions.
Trims
This model is offered in three well-equipped trims: SE, SEL, and Limited. The base SE trim comes with essential features such as air conditioning and a CD player. Stepping up to the SEL adds upgrades, including an upgraded audio system and alloy wheels. The top-of-the-line Limited trim features luxurious amenities, such as leather seating, a premium sound system, and advanced climate control. This tiered approach lets buyers choose the Taurus that best fits their lifestyle and budget.
Features
The 2008 Ford Taurus excels in offering a wealth of modern features, including standard safety elements like antilock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trims add further conveniences, such as a navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, and heated front seats. With its user-friendly interface, the Taurus ensures that both technology and comfort are easily accessible to all occupants.
Owner's Manual
The owner's manual for the 2008 Ford Taurus is a comprehensive guide designed to enhance the ownership experience. Detailed sections provide crucial information on operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and safety features, making it an invaluable resource for all owners. Whether you're navigating advanced technology or understanding routine upkeep, this manual offers clarity and guidance to ensure your Taurus remains in top condition.
User manual download
The Ford Taurus 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
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