Get Introduction Guide for Ford Explorer SUV Third Generation (2002-2005)

Introduction

CALIFORNIA Proposition 65 Warning

WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and

certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to

the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other

reproductive harm. In addition, certain fluids contained in vehicles and

certain products of component wear contain or emit chemicals known

to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other

reproductive harm.

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations on acquiring your new Ford. Please take the time to get

well acquainted with your vehicle by reading this handbook. The more

you know and understand about your vehicle the greater the safety and

pleasure you will derive from driving it.

For more information on Ford Motor Company and its products visit the

following website:

• In the United States: www.ford.com

• In Canada: www.ford.ca

• In Australia: www.ford.com.au

• In Mexico: www.ford.com.mx

Additional owner information is given in separate publications.

This Owner’s Guide describes every option and model variant available

and therefore some of the items covered may not apply to your

particular vehicle. Furthermore, due to printing cycles it may describe

options before they are generally available.

Remember to pass on the Owner’s Guide when reselling the vehicle. It is

an integral part of the vehicle.

Fuel pump shut-off switch In the event of an accident the

safety switch will automatically cut off the fuel supply to the

engine. The switch can also be activated through sudden vibration (e.g.

collision when parking). To reset the switch, refer to the Fuel pump

shut-off switch in the Roadside emergencies chapter.

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2003 Explorer (exp)

Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)

USA English (fus)

Introduction

SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION

Warning symbols in this guide

How can you reduce the risk of personal injury and prevent possible

damage to others, your vehicle and its equipment? In this guide, answers

to such questions are contained in comments highlighted by the warning

triangle symbol. These comments should be read and observed.

Warning symbols on your vehicle

When you see this symbol, it is

imperative that you consult the

relevant section of this guide before

touching or attempting adjustment

of any kind.

Protecting the environment

We must all play our part in

protecting the environment. Correct

vehicle usage and the authorized

disposal of waste cleaning and

lubrication materials are significant

steps towards this aim. Information in this respect is highlighted in this

guide with the tree symbol.

BREAKING-IN YOUR VEHICLE

Your vehicle does not need an extensive break-in. Try not to drive

continuously at the same speed for the first 1,600 km (1,000 miles) of

new vehicle operation. Vary your speed to allow parts to adjust

themselves to other parts.

Drive your new vehicle at least 800 km (500 miles) before towing a

trailer.

Do not add friction modifier compounds or special break-in oils during

the first few thousand kilometers (miles) of operation, since these

additives may prevent piston ring seating. See Engine oil in the

Maintenance and specifications chapter for more information on oil

usage.

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2003 Explorer (exp)

Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)

USA English (fus)

Introduction

SPECIAL NOTICES

Special instructions

For your added safety, your vehicle is fitted with sophisticated electronic

controls.

Please read the section Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)

in the Seating and safety restraints chapter. Failure to follow

the specific warnings and instructions could result in personal injury.

Front seat mounted rear facing child or infant seats should

NEVER be used in front of a passenger side air bag unless the

air bag can be and is turned OFF.

Data Recording

Computers in your vehicle are capable of recording detailed data

potentially including but not limited to information such as:

• the use of restraint systems including seat belts by the driver and

passengers,

• information about the performance of various systems and modules in

the vehicle, and

• information related to engine, throttle, steering, brake or other system

status.

Any of this information could potentially include information regarding

how the driver operates the vehicle, potentially including but not limited

to information regarding vehicle speed, brake or accelerator application,

or steering input. This information may be stored during regular

operation or in a crash or near crash event.

This stored information may be read out and used by:

• Ford Motor Company.

• service and repair facilities.

• law enforcement or government agencies.

• others who may assert a right or obtain your consent to know such

information.

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2003 Explorer (exp)

Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)

USA English (fus)

Introduction

Emission warranty

The New Vehicle Limited Warranty includes Bumper-to-Bumper Coverage,

Safety Restraint Coverage, Corrosion Coverage, and 7.3L Power Stroke

Diesel Engine Coverage. In addition, your vehicle is eligible for Emissions

Defect and Emissions Performance Warranties. For a detailed description

of what is covered and what is not covered, refer to the Warranty Guide

that is provided to you along with your Owner’s Guide.

Notice to owners of pickup trucks and utility type vehicles

Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover rate than

other types of vehicles.

Before you drive your vehicle, please read this Owner’s Guide carefully.

Your vehicle is not a passenger car. As with other vehicles of this type,

failure to operate this vehicle correctly may result in loss of vehicle

control, vehicle rollover, personal injury or death.

Be sure to read Driving off road in the Driving chapter.

Using your vehicle with a snowplow

Do not use this vehicle for snowplowing.

Using your vehicle as an ambulance

Do not use this vehicle as an ambulance.

Your vehicle is not equipped with the Ford Ambulance Preparation

Package.

Middle East/North Africa vehicle specific information

For your particular global region, your vehicle may be equipped with

features and options that are different from the ones that are described

in this Owner Guide; therefore, a supplement has been supplied that

complements this book. By referring to the pages in the provided

supplement, you can properly identify those features, recommendations

and specifications that are unique to your vehicle. Refer to this Owner

Guide for all other required information and warnings.

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2003 Explorer (exp)

Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)

USA English (fus)

Introduction

These are some of the symbols you may see on your vehicle.

Vehicle Symbol Glossary

Safety Alert

See Owner’s Guide

Air Bag-Front

Child Seat

Fasten Safety Belt

Air Bag-Side

Child Seat Installation

Warning

Child Seat Lower

Anchor

Child Seat Tether

Anchor

Brake System

Brake Fluid -

Non-Petroleum Based

Anti-Lock Brake System

Traction Control

AdvanceTrac௢

Master Lighting Switch

Fog Lamps-Front

Hazard Warning Flasher

Fuse Compartment

Windshield Wash/Wipe

Fuel Pump Reset

Windshield

Rear Window

Defrost/Demist

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2003 Explorer (exp)

Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)

USA English (fus)

Introduction

Vehicle Symbol Glossary

Power Window Lockout

Interior Luggage

Power Windows

Front/Rear

Child Safety Door

Lock/Unlock

Compartment Release

Symbol

Panic Alarm

Engine Oil

Engine Coolant

Temperature

Engine Coolant

Do Not Open When Hot

Battery

Avoid Smoking, Flames,

or Sparks

Battery Acid

Fan Warning

Explosive Gas

MAX

MIN

Maintain Correct Fluid

Level

Power Steering Fluid

Emission System

Engine Air Filter

Jack

Passenger Compartment

Air Filter

Check fuel cap

Low tire warning

9

2003 Explorer (exp)

Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)

USA English (fus)

Introduction for Your Ford Explorer SUV Third Generation (2002-2005)

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