Preliminary Checks

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 30 other vehicles, including the 2003 Mercury Sable, 2003 Mercury Mountaineer, 2003 Mercury Marauder, 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis, and 2003 Lincoln Town Car. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: If engine runs normally after ignition switch is turned to OFF position, check for damaged ignition switch or IGN RUN or VPWR circuit for short to power. See WIRING DIAGRAMS .

Check for vacuum leaks. Check for deposits on throttle plate. Check throttle linkage operation. Check for binding/sticking cruise control linkage. Check for air intake duct leaks. Check for leaking intake manifold gasket. Check Idle Air Control (IAC) or Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valves. Ensure vehicle is at normal operating temperature.