Contents Section: Procedures All sections

Maintenance Information Lincoln Continental VIII

Procedures 4 illustrations ~1790 words

VIN LOCATION

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is located on the left side of the dash panel at the base of the windshield. The VIN chart explains the code characters.

VIN CODE ID EXPLANATION

Numbers preceding the explanations in the legend below refer to the sequence of characters as listed on VIN identification label. See VIN example below.

VIN Code ID Explanation. Scheme 2

Scheme 2: VIN Code ID Explanation

SEVERE & NORMAL SERVICE DEFINITIONS

Note. Use the Severe Service schedule if the vehicle to be serviced is operated under ANY (one or more) of these conditions

Service is recommended at mileage intervals based on vehicle operation. Service schedules are based on the following primary operating conditions

Severe Service

  1. Short Trips (About 10 Miles) In Freezing Temperatures
  2. Towing Or Heavily Loaded
  3. Severe Dust Conditions
  4. Hot Weather, Stop-And-Go Driving
  5. Extensive Idling Conditions (Taxi Or Delivery Type Service)

Normal Service

  1. Driven More Than 10 Miles Daily
  2. No Severe Service Operating Conditions

Scheme 3

Scheme 3: SERVICE POINT LOCATIONS

SERVICE LABOR TIMES

Note. For 1990 and newer vehicles, labor times are provided, where available, within appropriate SERVICE INTERVAL table in SCHEDULED SERVICES article.

TIRE INFLATION

Inflation pressure can be found on decal attached to front face of right rear door pillar.

WHEEL TIGHTENING

Note. Vehicles with aluminum wheels have one locking lug nut on each wheel. The key for this nut is attached to the lug wrench in spare tire compartment.

Tighten all wheels to 85-105 ft. lbs. (115-142 N.m). If wheels are equipped with locking type lug nuts, ALWAYS position Keyed nut opposite valve stem.

CAUTIONLug nut key should be held square to the lug nut; key and lug nut can be damaged if it is held at an angle. DO NOT use a power impact wrench on the lug nut key.

BATTERY SPECIFICATIONS

CAUTIONWhen battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in the GENERAL INFORMATION section.

Continental uses a standard BXT-65-650 or optional BXT-65-850 battery.

SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (AIR BAG SYSTEM)

When performing maintenance on air bag equipped vehicles always observe proper safety precautions.

WARNINGTo avoid injury from accidental air bag deployment, read and carefully follow all warnings and service precautions. See appropriate AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article in the ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT section.
CAUTIONDisconnect negative battery cable before servicing any air bag system or steering column component. Check system operation after each repair; always turn the ignition switch to the ON position from passenger's side of vehicle.

AIR CONDITIONING SERVICING

CAUTIONAvoid breathing R-134a refrigerant and PAG lubricant vapors, exposure may irritate eyes, nose and throat. To remove R-134a from system use R-134a recycling equipment that meets SAE J2210 specifications. If accidental system discharge occurs, ventilate work area before resuming service.
WARNINGR-134a service equipment or vehicle A/C systems SHOULD NOT be pressure tested or leak tested with compressed air. Some mixtures of air/R134a have shown to be combustible at elevated pressures. These mixtures are dangerous and may cause fire and/or explosions. See the appropriate A/C SYSTEM GENERAL SERVICING article in the AIR CONDITIONING & HEAT section.

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM

The anti-lock brake system contains electronic equipment that can be susceptible to interference caused by improperly installed or high output radio transmitting equipment. Since this interference could cause the possible loss of the anti-lock braking capability, such equipment should be installed by qualified professionals.

On models equipped with anti-lock brake systems, ALWAYS observe the following cautions

  1. DO NOT attempt to bleed hydraulic system without first referring to the appropriate ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM article in the BRAKES Section.
  2. DO NOT mix tire sizes. As long as tires remain close to the original diameter, increasing the width is acceptable. Rolling diameter must be identical for all 4 tires. Some manufacturers recommend tires of the same brand, style and type. Failure to follow this precaution may cause inaccurate wheel speed readings.
  3. Use ONLY recommended brake fluids. DO NOT use silicone brake fluids in an ABS-equipped vehicle.

AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM

CAUTIONTo prevent sudden vehicle movement, turn air suspension switch, located in trunk, to OFF position before jacking, hoisting or towing vehicle.

REPLACING BLOWN FUSES

CAUTIONBefore replacing a blown fuse, remove ignition key, turn off all lights and accessories to avoid damaging the electrical system. Be sure to use fuse with the correct indicated amperage rating. The use of an incorrect amperage rating fuse may result in a dangerous electrical system overload.

BATTERY WARNING

WARNINGWhen battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in GENERAL INFORMATION section.

BRAKE PAD WEAR INDICATOR

CAUTIONIndicator will cause a squealing or scraping noise, warning that brake pads need replacement.

CATALYTIC CONVERTER

CAUTIONTo prevent catalytic converter overheating, DO NOT allow engine to idle for more than 20 minutes.

COOLANT (PROPYLENE-GLYCOL FORMULATIONS)

CAUTIONTo avoid possible damage to vehicle use only ethylene-glycol based coolants with a mixture ratio from 44-68% anti-freeze. DO NOT use 100% anti-freeze as it will cause the formation of cooling system deposits. This results in coolant temperatures of over 300° F (149°C) which can melt plastics. 100% anti-freeze has a freeze point of only -8° F (-22°C).
CAUTIONPropylene-Glycol Mixtures has a smaller temperature range than Ethylene-Glycol. The temperature range (freeze-boil) of a 50/50 Anti-Freeze/Water Mix is as follows: Propylene-Glycol -26° F (-32°C) - 257° F (125°C) Ethylene-Glycol -35° F (-37°C) - 263° F (128°C)
CAUTIONPropylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol Mixtures can cause the destabilization of various corrosion inhibitors. Also Propylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol has a different specific gravity than Ethylene-Glycol coolant, which will result in inaccurate freeze point calculations.

ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE SENSITIVE (ESD) PARTS

WARNINGMany solid state electrical components can be damaged by static electricity (ESD). Some will display a warning label, but many will not. Discharge personal static electricity by touching a metal ground point on the vehicle prior to servicing any ESD sensitive component.

FUEL PUMP SHUTOFF SWITCH

This switch stops flow of fuel to engine after a collision. To reset switch, press White reset button on switch located on left side of trunk.

FUEL SYSTEM SERVICE

WARNINGRelieve fuel system pressure prior to servicing any fuel system component.

HALOGEN BULBS

WARNINGHalogen bulbs contain pressurized gas which may explode if overheated. DO NOT touch glass portion of bulb with bare hands. Eye protection should be worn when handling or working around halogen bulbs.

RADIATOR CAP

CAUTIONAlways disconnect the fan motor when working near the radiator fan. The fan is temperature controlled and could start at any time even when the ignition key is in the OFF position. DO NOT loosen or remove radiator cap when cooling system is hot.

RADIATOR FAN

WARNINGKeep hands away from radiator fan. Fan is controlled by a thermostatic switch which may come on or run for up to 15 minutes even after engine is turned off.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

CAUTIONDue to the different warranties offered in various regions and the variety of after-market extended warranties available, please refer to the warranty package that came with the vehicle to verify all warranty options.

BASIC NEW CAR LIMITED WARRANTY

All parts of the vehicle, except tires, are covered against defects in factory-supplied materials and workmanship for 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

POWERTRAIN WARRANTY

Note. Powertrain Warranty varies in coverage length (either 4 years/50,000 miles or 6 years/60,000 miles) depending on model year.

Under this warranty, certain parts of the engine, transmission, axle and driveline are warranted against defects in materials and workmanship. This coverage begins after 12 months or 12,000 miles. See copy of warranty for specific components covered and length of coverage.

BUMPER-TO-BUMPER COVERAGE

On 1991-93 models, warranty period has been extended to 4 years or 50,000 miles. There is no deductible with this warranty. Items not covered include tires, scheduled maintenance items and parts that are subject to normal wear and tear - such as windshield wiper blades, brake linings, brake pads and clutch linings.

BATTERY COVERAGE

Begins at warranty start date and lasts up to 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first. For the first 12 months in service (less than 36,000 miles), battery will be replaced at no charge. After that, battery will be replaced on a customer-participation basis: For the 13th-24th month in service, Ford will pay 50%; for the 25th-36th month, Ford will pay 25%. Labor is covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

SAFETY RESTRAINT SYSTEM COVERAGE

Begins at warranty start date and lasts for 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Covers safety restraint problems not related to comfort or appearance. Coverage for model years earlier than 1990 is 3 years with unlimited miles.

CORROSION COVERAGE

Begins at warranty start date and lasts for 6 years or 60,000 miles, whichever occurs first. 1992-93 models are covered for 6 years or 100,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Covers any holes in body sheet metal caused by corrosion.

EMISSIONS DEFECT & PERFORMANCE WARRANTIES (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA)

Defect Warranty ensures that vehicle meets applicable EPA regulations and that vehicle's emission control system is free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

The Performance Warranty covers all costs of repairing or adjusting any components or parts as needed for the vehicle to pass a Federally required state or local emissions test.

Other emission control parts related to these components are covered by the Performance Warranty, where applicable. If another part fails due to the failure of one of these components, both parts are covered. See customer's copy of warranty information for specific items covered. Performance Warranty coverage is limited to fewer components after 2 years or 24,000 miles.

EMISSIONS PERFORMANCE WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)

If vehicle fails a Smog Check inspection, all necessary repairs and adjustments will be made by manufacturer to ensure that vehicle passes the inspection. Warranty begins at warranty start date and lasts for a period of 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

EMISSIONS DEFECT WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)

If any emission-related part on the vehicle is defective, the part will be repaired or replaced by manufacturer. Warranty begins at warranty start date and lasts for a period of 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

Some emission-related parts are warranted for 7 years or 70,000 miles whichever occurs first, and will be repaired or replaced by manufacturer if found to be defective in material or workmanship. See customer's copy of warranty information for specific items covered.

FUSE PANEL & FUSE BLOCK LOCATIONS

Fuse panel is located under the instrument panel, left of the steering column. Fuse block is located in the engine compartment, on the left fender apron.

Scheme 4

Scheme 4: FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION (INTERIOR)

Fuse & Circuit Breaker Identification

  1. 1 - 15 Amp - Brakelights, Hazard Warning Lights, Speed Control, Air Suspension (1988-90)
  2. 2 - 8.25-Amp Circuit Breaker Windshield Wiper Governor, Windshield Wiper Switch & Motor, Low Washer Fluid Switch
  3. 3 - Empty
  4. 4 - 15 Amp - Side Marker Lights, Front Parking Lights, Chime (1990-94), Illumination Of: Cluster, Headlight Switch, Ashtray Lights, Message Center Switch, Temperature Controls & Heated Back Light Switch (1990-94), EATC (1988-89), Autolight Relay Power Feed (1988-89), Taillights, License Lights (1988-89), Headlight Switch (1988-89), Illuminated Entry (1988-89), Heated Windshield Switch (1988-89), Cluster Control Assembly (1988-89), Fuse Cavities 13 & 15 (1993-94)
  5. 5 - 15 Amp - Heated Back Light Switch, Electronic Flasher, Steering Rate Sensor, Roof Console, Air Suspension, Day/Night Mirror, Back-Up Lights, EATC (A/C) Control Head, Cluster Control Buttons, Variable Assist Power Steering Module, Keyless Entry Module, Electronic Door Lock Control Processor (1994), Air Bag Diagnostic Module, Turn Signal Lights (1991-93), Cluster Illumination (1991-93), Shift Interlock Solenoid
  6. 6 - 15 Amp - Electronic Chime, Deck Lid Release, Overhead Console, Anti-Theft Module, Reading Lights, Daytime Display Lights: Radio, Clock, A/C Controls, Power Window Relay, Cellular Phone, Cluster Control Buttons (1988-90), Outside Temperature Display Module (1988-90)
  7. 7 - 10 Amp - Heated Rearview Mirrors
  8. 8 - 15 Amp - Engine & Glove Compartment, Light, Courtesy Lights, Keyless Entry Module, Electronic Door Lock Control Processor (1994),Power Mirrors, Vanity Lights, Roof Module, Anti-Theft Relay, Luggage Compartment Light, Radio, Clock, Antenna Module Heated Windshield Switch (1988-91), Air Suspension (1988-90), Seat Memory Module (1991-94), Digital Audio Disc Player (1992-93)
  9. 9 - 30 Amp - Blower Motor, Blower Speed Controller
  10. 10 - 20 Amp - Horns, Fuel Filler Door, Speed Control, Cigarette Lighter (1991-94), Cellular Phone (1991-94)
  11. 11 - 15 Amp (1991-93) - Radio, Sound Amplifier, Power Antenna Motor 20 Amp (1988-90)
  12. 12 - 15 Amp - Air Bag Relay, Cigarette Lighters (1988-90) 20 Amp (1988-90)
  13. 13 - 5 Amp (1990-94) - Rheostat Feed, Dimming Module, Dimmable Illumination Of:, Compass, Radio, Clock, Transmission Selector, Radio Controls A/C Controls 5 Amp (1988-89) - Instrument Panel Illumination, Clock, Compass, PRNDL, Radio LCD, Climate Control Head, Message Center, Radio Antenna Switch Light
  14. 14 - 15 Amp (1991-94) - A/C Blend Door Actuator, Blower Motor Speed Relay, A/C Clutch 20 Amp (1988-90) - Flash-To-Pass, Auto Dimmer Relay
  15. 15 - 10 Amp - Rear Running Lights (1988-90), Heated Back Light Switch (1988-90), License & Side Marker Lights (1991-94), Coach Light, Taillights (1991-94)
  16. 16 - 5 Amp - Electronic Cluster, EATC (A/C) Control Switch, Message Center
  17. 17 - 20 Amp (1991-94) - Flash-To-Pass, Auto Dimmer Relay, Deck Lid Pull-Down, High Beam Headlights, Daytime Running Lights (Canada) 15 Amp (1988-90) - EATC Compressor Clutch, EATC Blend Door Actuator, Power Window Relay, Blower Motor Speed Relay, Enhanced Illumination Module
  18. 18 - 15 Amp - Cluster Warning Lights, Air Bag Chime/Light, Autolight

Scheme 5

Scheme 5: FUSE BLOCK IDENTIFICATION (UNDERHOOD)
WARNINGAlways disconnect battery ground cable before servicing "high-current fuses. It is recommended that "high-current" fuses be replaced by a qualified technician.
  1. A - 40 Amp - Air Suspension Motor
  2. B - 30 Amp - Air Suspension Module
  3. C - 30 Amp - Anti-Lock Module
  4. D - 40 Amp - Anti-Lock Motor
  5. E - 40 Amp - Rear Window Defrost
  6. F - 30 Amp - Ignition Coil/TFI, Ignition Control Module (1994)
  7. G - 30 Amp - Electronic Engine Control, Fuel Pump (1991-94) Powertrain Control Module (PCM (1994))
  8. H - 40 Amp - A/C Clutch (1988-91), JBL Amplifier (1988-90), Anti-Theft Horn (1988-90), Fuse Panel (1991-94)
  9. I - 60 Amp (1991-93) - Headlight Switch/Cornering Lights 40 Amp (1988-90) - Power Windows, Power Lumbar, Keyless/Power Locks, Power Deck Lid, Power Seats
  10. J - 40 Amp - Fuse Panel (No. 4, 8, 12 & 16 Fuses)
  11. K - 40 Amp (1991-93) - Power Windows, Power Lumbar, Keyless/Electronic/Power Locks, Power Deck Lid, Power Seats 60 Amp (1988-90) - Headlight Switch/Cornering Lights
  12. L - 60 Amp - Cooling Fan Motor
  13. M - 60 Amp - Ignition Switch Feed, Blower Motor (1990-94), Parallel Feed: Feeds No. 2, 5, 6, 9, 11, 14, 17 & 18 Fuses (1988-89)
  14. N - 60 Amp - Ignition Switch Feed, Blower Motor (1991-94), Parallel Feed: Feeds No. 2, 5, 6, 9, 11, 14, 17 & 18 Fuses (1988-90)
  15. O - 10 Amp - Anti-Lock Power Relay
  16. P - 10 Amp - HEGO - Heated Oxygen Sensor