Lincoln 1996 Continental, Owner'S Manual, Page: 50 / 321

A computer system controls the engine's idle speed.
When you start your vehicle, the engine's idle speed
normally runs higher than when it is warmed up. These
faster engine speeds will make your vehicle move
slightly faster than its normal idle speed. It should,
however, slow down after a short time. If it does not,
have the idle speed checked.
If the engine idle speed does not slow down
automatically, do not allow your vehicle to idle for more
than 10 minutes. Have the vehicle checked.
/!\ WARNING
Extended idling at high engine speeds can produce
very high temperatures in the engine and exhaust
system, creating the risk of fire or other damage.
46
/!\ WARNING
Do not park, idle, or drive your vehicle in dry
grass or other dry ground cover. The
emission system heats up the engine
compartment and exhaust system, which can
start a fire.
Engine Block Heater (If equipped)
Engine block heaters are strongly recommended if
you live in a region where temperatures reach -10
°°
F
(-23
°°
C) or below. An engine block heater warms
the engine coolant, which improves starting, warms
up the engine faster, and allows the heater-defrost
system to respond quickly.
To turn the heater on, simply plug it into a
grounded 110-volt outlet. Ford recommends that
you use a 110-volt circuit that is protected by a
ground fault circuit interrupter.