Description & Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1997 Mercury Cougar and 1997 Ford Thunderbird. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Instrument cluster contains a speedometer/odometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge and voltmeter. Warning lights are located in various groupings on the instrument cluster. See Fig 1. Instrument cluster and panel will not illuminate when headlight switch is in OFF position.

Instrument cluster gauge amplifier (low fuel level warning/anti-slosh module) is part of low fuel level warning and provides delay in fuel gauge to prevent fluctuation in fuel gauge pointer as a result of fuel movement in tank. The module is a small printed circuit board which latches into a pocket on back of instrument cluster. There are no provisions for calibration or adjustment of low fuel level warning/anti-slosh module.

When ignition switch is turned to ON position, the following warning indicators will light momentarily for function proof:

ABS
Air Bag
Charging System
Door Ajar
Low Fuel
Low Oil Pressure
Safety Belt
SERVICE ENGINE SOON (MIL)

Fig 1: Instrument Cluster Gauges, Warning Lights & Indicators

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.