Fleet Sales - Maintenance of Retired Fleet Vehicles

The vast majority of the Patrol's fleet consists of Ford Crown Victorias, which are primarily driven by Troopers and Capitol Police Officers. However, the agency routinely purchases various makes of pickup trucks that are used by Motor Carrier Inspectors. Additionally, a small number of specialty vehicles, such as the Chevrolet Camaro, Ford Mustang, or Dodge Charger are purchased, as well.

Most of the Patrol's vehicles are removed from service prior to reaching 49,900 miles, and every vehicle sold is subjected to a stringent maintenance schedule. Below is the maintenance schedule for the Ford Crown Victoria. All other makes and models of retired vehicles are maintained in a similar manner.

Break-In Procedure

1. First 50 miles should be driven at 50 mph. This will allow the tires to be flexed-in properly and will be beneficial to the drive train and engine.
2. 50 to 500 miles, varying speeds, no prolonged high speeds, no full throttle operation.
3. From 500 miles, as required in line of duty
4. Although the new vehicle has been inspected prior to issue, it is suggested that each officer personally inspect all visible components in the engine compartment, undercarriage and suspension system as soon as practical.

Warranty Service

All warranty services must be completed by an authorized Ford/Lincoln Mercury dealer. Do not attempt to have this work completed by local non-dealership repair centers. The new vehicle warranties is a follows:

3-year / 36,000 miles: Bumper to bumper
5 years / 60,000 miles: Power train components (engine/transmission) 2007 and newer models
8 years / 80,000 miles: Catalytic converters

The only excluded items are those considered normal wear items such at hoses, belts, brake pads, spark plugs and tires. For any questions regarding this service, please contact Fleet Operations.

Services to be Performed at Each Fuel Purchase

1. Use only unleaded fuel
2. Check crankcase oil level
3. Check windshield washer fluid level and wiper blade condition and operation
4. Check for oil and water leaks
5. Check for debris around radiator core

Crown Victoria Maintenance Schedule

1. Oil / Filter Changes

1. At every 5,000 miles change the oil and filter (6.5 quarts)
2. Use SAE 5-W-30 oil which meets SH, SJ standards. SAE 5W-20 is preferred if it can be purchased at the same price as 5W-30.
3. Check all fluids, brake master cylinder, power steering, transmission.
4. Check air filter unit.
5. Visual inspection of radiator and radiator cap. At operation temperature check the coolant level by observing lines on surge tank for proper fill.
6. Visual inspection of radiator and heater hoses and all rubber vacuum lines.
7. Check belts for fan, alternator, water pump and air conditioner for proper tension and signs of wear.
8. Make under-hood check of all electrical wires and connections.
9. Insure area in front of radiator is clean and free of debris such as bugs, grass, etc.
10. If equipped with grease fittings, lubricate steering, suspension, and ball joints.

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2. Tire Rotation/Maintenance/Replacement

1. Every 10,000 miles rotate tires on four-tire rotation basis. Right front to left rear, left front to right rear, right rear to right front, left rear to left front.
2. Visually inspect brakes when rotating tires.
3. Check tire pressure regularly. Maintain at 35-44 PSI, cold.
4. Replacement of tires with more than 3/32 inch of tread must be approved by a troop supervisor.
5. An emergency tire purchase is authorized in case of tire failure at any service point representing the tire company under current contract with state agencies.
6. When wheels are taken off for any reason, torque wheel nuts to 100 ft. lbs. Improper tightening of wheel nuts will warp the brake rotors and result in poor brake performance.
7. tires must be V speed rated.

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3. Air Filters

• Every 15,000 miles replace the paper air filter element.
• Filter should be replace immediately if the vehicle is exposed to severe dust conditions.
• Filter may be replaced by Trooper of replaced during service.

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4. Fuel Filter and Other 15,000 Mile Adjustments

1. Replace the fuel filter every 15,000 miles.

5. Cooling System

1. Flush and fill cooling system at 100,000 miles.
2. Use antifreeze all year round an check frequently during Winter months. Protection must be -20 degrees.
3. Use only antifreeze which is yellow or green in color. Do not mix orange antifreeze with original yellow or green.

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6. Transmission

• Every 30,000 miles flush all fluid and change the filter.
• The Crown Victoria is equipped with low gear lockout; do not remove.
• Vehicles exceeding 49,000 miles with require a flush and filter change every 30,000 miles thereafter.

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7. Spark Plugs

• Replace every 60,000 miles.

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8. Brakes

• Replace brake pads as necessary with approved pads.
• Rotors should be replaced with new, not resurfaced.

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Other Related Policies and Guidelines

• DO NOT overfill crankcase.
• DO NOT use gas-saving devices or gadgets.
• DO NOT use gadgets that supposedly increase power.
• Follow manufacturer guidelines within starting a dead battery to avoid damaging the vehicle's computer.
• BRAKE FLUID SPECIAL NOTICE: Use only High Performance DOT 3 brake fluid that meets or exceeds Ford Motor Company specifications.
• We need your help in avoiding the payment for unnecessary services. Please be specific in your requests for service.
• If battery warranty has expired, replace with a current contract replacement battery.
• Operate the air conditioner at least once monthly during the winter to lubricate seals.

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