2011 Ford Escape Owners Manual

Ford endorses the use of reformulated “cleaner-burning” gasolines to improve air quality, per the recommendations in the Choosing the right fuel section.

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Running out of fuel Avoid running out of fuel because this situation may have an adverse effect on powertrain components. If you have run out of fuel: • You may need to cycle the ignition from off to on several times after refueling to allow the fuel system to pump the fuel from the tank to the engine. On restarting, cranking time will take a few seconds longer than normal.

• Normally, adding 1 gallon (3.8L) of fuel is enough to restart the

engine. If the vehicle is out of fuel and on a steep grade, more than 1 gallon (3.8L) may be required.

• The service engine soon

indicator may come on. For more

information on the service engine soon indicator, refer to Warning lights and chimes in the Instrument Cluster chapter.

Refilling with a portable fuel container With the Easy Fuel威 “no cap” fuel system, use the following directions when filling from a portable fuel container:

WARNING: Do not insert the nozzle of portable fuel containers or aftermarket funnels into the Easy Fuel威 system. This could damage the fuel system and its seal, and may cause fuel to run onto the ground instead of filling the tank, which could result in serious personal injury.

WARNING: Do not try to pry open or push open the Easy Fuel威 system with foreign objects. This could damage the fuel system

and its seal and cause injury to you or others.

When filling the vehicle’s fuel tank from a portable fuel container, use the funnel included with the vehicle.

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1. Locate the white plastic funnel. It is attached to the inside of the rear passenger side cargo compartment access door.

2. Slowly insert the funnel into the Easy Fuel威 system.

3. Fill the vehicle with fuel from the portable fuel container. 4. When done, clean the funnel or properly dispose of it. Extra funnels can be purchased from your authorized dealer if you choose to dispose of the funnel. Do not use aftermarket funnels; they will not work with the Easy Fuel威 system and can damage it. The included funnel has been specially designed to work safely with your vehicle. ESSENTIALS OF GOOD FUEL ECONOMY Measuring techniques Your best source of information about actual fuel economy is you, the driver. You must gather information as accurately and consistently as possible. Fuel expense, frequency of fill-ups or fuel gauge readings are NOT accurate as a measure of fuel economy. We do not recommend taking fuel economy measurements during the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km) of driving (engine break-in period). You will get a more accurate measurement after 2,000 miles–3,000 miles (3,000 km–5,000
km). Filling the tank The advertised fuel capacity of the fuel tank on your vehicle is equal to the rated refill capacity of the fuel tank as listed in the Maintenance product specifications and capacities section of this chapter.

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The advertised capacity is the amount of the indicated capacity and the empty reserve combined. Indicated capacity is the difference in the amount of fuel in a full tank and a tank when the fuel gauge indicates empty. Empty reserve is the small amount of fuel remaining in the fuel tank after the fuel gauge indicates empty. The amount of usable fuel in the empty reserve varies and should not be relied upon to increase driving range. When refueling your vehicle after the fuel gauge indicates empty, you might not be able to refuel the full amount of the advertised capacity of the fuel tank due to the empty reserve still present in the tank. For consistent results when filling the fuel tank: • Turn the engine/ignition switch to the off position prior to refueling, • Use the same filling rate setting (low — medium — high) each time • Allow no more than two automatic click-offs when filling. • Always use fuel with the recommended octane rating. • Use a known quality gasoline, preferably a national brand. • Have the vehicle loading and distribution the same every time. Your results will be most accurate if your filling method is consistent.

an error in the reading will result if the engine is left running.

the tank is filled.

Calculating fuel economy 1. Fill the fuel tank completely and record the initial odometer reading (in miles or kilometers). 2. Each time you fill the tank, record the amount of fuel added (in gallons or liters). 3. After at least three to five tank fill-ups, fill the fuel tank and record the current odometer reading. 4. Subtract your initial odometer reading from the current odometer reading. 5. Follow one of the simple calculations in order to determine fuel economy:

Calculation 1: Divide total miles traveled by total gallons used. Calculation 2: Multiply liters used by 100, then divide by total kilometers traveled.

Keep a record for at least one month and record the type of driving (city or highway). This will provide an accurate estimate of the vehicle’s fuel 314

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economy under current driving conditions. Additionally, keeping records during summer and winter will show how temperature impacts fuel economy. In general, lower temperatures give lower fuel economy.

fuel.

economy.

Driving style — good driving and fuel economy habits Give consideration to the lists that follow and you may be able to change a number of variables and improve your fuel economy. Habits • Smooth, moderate operation can yield up to 10% savings in fuel. • Steady speeds without stopping will usually give the best fuel • Idling for long periods of time (greater than one minute) may waste • Anticipate stopping; slowing down may eliminate the need to stop. • Sudden or hard accelerations may reduce fuel economy. • Slow down gradually. • Driving at reasonable speeds (traveling at 55 mph [88 km/h] uses 15% • Revving the engine before turning it off may reduce fuel economy. • Using the air conditioner or defroster may reduce fuel economy. • You may want to turn off the speed control in hilly terrain if

less fuel than traveling at 65 mph [105 km/h]).

economy.

reduce fuel economy.

unnecessary shifting between the top gears occurs. Unnecessary shifting of this type could result in reduced fuel economy. • Warming up a vehicle on cold mornings is not required and may • Resting your foot on the brake pedal while driving may reduce fuel • Combine errands and minimize stop-and-go driving. Maintenance • Keep tires properly inflated and use only recommended size. • Operating a vehicle with the wheels out of alignment will reduce fuel • Use recommended engine oil. Refer to Maintenance product • Perform all regularly scheduled maintenance items. Follow the

specifications and capacities in this chapter.

economy.

recommended maintenance schedule and owner maintenance checks found in scheduled maintenance information.

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at any speed.

Conditions • Heavily loading a vehicle or towing a trailer may reduce fuel economy • Carrying unnecessary weight may reduce fuel economy (approximately • Adding certain accessories to your vehicle (for example bug

1 mpg [0.4 km/L] is lost for every 400 lb [180 kg] of weight carried).

driving on hilly terrain.

deflectors, rollbars/light bars, running boards, ski racks) may reduce fuel economy.

8–10 miles (12–16 km) of driving.

cruise gear and with steady pressure on the gas pedal.

• Using fuel blended with alcohol may lower fuel economy. • Fuel economy may decrease with lower temperatures during the first • Driving on flat terrain offers improved fuel economy as compared to • Transmissions give their best fuel economy when operated in the top • Close windows for high speed driving. EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM Your vehicle is equipped with various emission control components and a catalytic converter which will enable your vehicle to comply with applicable exhaust emission standards. To make sure that the catalytic converter and other emission control components continue to work properly: • Use only the specified fuel listed. • Avoid running out of fuel. • Do not turn off the ignition while your vehicle is moving, especially at • Have the items listed in scheduled maintenance information

high speeds.

performed according to the specified schedule.

The scheduled maintenance items listed in scheduled maintenance information are essential to the life and performance of your vehicle and to its emissions system. If other than Ford, Motorcraft威 or Ford-authorized parts are used for maintenance replacements or for service of components affecting emission control, such non-Ford parts should be equivalent to genuine Ford Motor Company parts in performance and durability. 316

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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.

Illumination of the service engine soon warning light or the temperature warning light, fluid leaks, strange odors, smoke or loss of engine power could indicate that the emission control system is not working properly. An improperly operating or damaged exhaust system may allow exhaust to enter the vehicle. Have a damaged or improperly operating exhaust system inspected and repaired immediately.

indicator, charging system

WARNING: Exhaust leaks may result in entry of harmful and potentially lethal fumes into the passenger compartment.

Do not make any unauthorized changes to your vehicle or engine. By law, vehicle owners and anyone who manufactures, repairs, services, sells, leases, trades vehicles, or supervises a fleet of vehicles are not permitted to intentionally remove an emission control device or prevent it from working. Information about your vehicle’s emission system is on the Vehicle Emission Control Information Decal located on or near the engine. This decal also lists engine displacement. Please consult your Warranty Guide for complete emission warranty information.

On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) Your vehicle is equipped with a computer that monitors the engine’s emission control system. This system is commonly known as the on-board diagnostics system (OBD-II). The OBD-II system protects the environment by ensuring that your vehicle continues to meet government emission standards. The OBD-II system also assists your authorized dealer in properly servicing your vehicle. When the service engine soon a malfunction. Temporary malfunctions may cause the service engine soon 1. The vehicle has run out of fuel—the engine may misfire or run poorly. 2. Poor fuel quality or water in the fuel—the engine may misfire or run poorly. 3. The fuel fill inlet may not have been properly closed. See Easy Fuel威 “no cap” fuel system in this chapter.

indicator illuminates, the OBD-II system has detected

indicator to illuminate. Examples are:

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4. Driving through deep water—the electrical system may be wet. These temporary malfunctions can be corrected by filling the fuel tank with good quality fuel, properly closing the fuel fill inlet or letting the electrical system dry out. After three driving cycles without these or any other temporary malfunctions present, the service engine soon indicator should stay off the next time the engine is started. A driving cycle consists of a cold engine startup followed by mixed city/highway driving. No additional vehicle service is required. indicator remains on, have your vehicle If the service engine soon serviced at the first available opportunity. Although some malfunctions detected by the OBD-II may not have symptoms that are apparent, indicator on can continued driving with the service engine soon result in increased emissions, lower fuel economy, reduced engine and transmission smoothness, and lead to more costly repairs.

indicator is on or not working

indicator is on or the bulb does not

Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing Some state/provincial and local governments may have Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) programs to inspect the emission control equipment on your vehicle. Failure to pass this inspection could prevent you from getting a vehicle registration. Your vehicle may not pass the I/M test if the service engine soon properly (bulb is burned out), or if the OBD-II system has determined that some of the emission control systems have not been properly checked. In this case, the vehicle is considered not ready for I/M testing. If the service engine soon work, the vehicle may need to be serviced. Refer to On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) in this chapter. If the vehicle’s engine or transmission has just been serviced, or the battery has recently run down or been replaced, the OBD-II system may indicate that the vehicle is not ready for I/M testing. To determine if the vehicle is ready for I/M testing, turn the ignition key to the on position for 15 seconds without cranking the engine. If the service engine soon ready for I/M testing; if the service engine soon solid, it means that the vehicle is ready for I/M testing. The OBD-II system is designed to check the emission control system during normal driving. A complete check may take several days. If the vehicle is not ready for I/M testing, the following driving cycle consisting of mixed city and highway driving may be performed: 318

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15 minutes of steady driving on an expressway/highway followed by 20 minutes of stop-and-go driving with at least four 30-second idle periods. Allow the vehicle to sit for at least eight hours without starting the engine. Then, start the engine and complete the above driving cycle. The engine must warm up to its normal operating temperature. Once started, do not turn off the engine until the above driving cycle is complete. If the vehicle is still not ready for I/M testing, the above driving cycle will have to be repeated.

BRAKE/CLUTCH FLUID Brake and clutch (if equipped) systems are supplied from the same reservoir. The fluid level will drop slowly as the brakes wear, and will rise when the brake components are replaced. Fluid levels between the MIN and MAX lines are within the normal operating range; there is no need to add fluid. If the fluid levels are outside of the normal operating range, the performance of the system could be compromised; seek service from your authorized dealer immediately.

TRANSMISSION FLUID

Checking automatic transmission fluid (if equipped) Refer to your scheduled maintenance information for scheduled intervals for fluid checks and changes. Your transmission does not consume fluid. However, the fluid level should be checked if the transmission is not working properly, i.e., if the transmission slips or shifts slowly or if you notice some sign of fluid leakage. Automatic transmission fluid expands when warmed. To obtain an accurate fluid check, drive the vehicle until it is warmed up (approximately 20 miles [30 km]). If your vehicle has been operated for an extended period at high speeds, in city traffic during hot weather or pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be turned off for about 30 minutes to allow fluid to cool before checking.

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1. Drive the vehicle 20 miles (30 km) or until it reaches normal operating temperature. 2. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. 3. With the parking brake engaged and your foot on the brake pedal, start the engine and move the gearshift lever through all of the gear ranges. Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage. 4. Latch the gearshift lever in P (Park) and leave the engine running. 5. Remove the dipstick, wiping it clean with a clean, dry lint free rag. If necessary, refer to Identifying components in the engine compartment in this chapter for the location of the dipstick. 6. Install the dipstick making sure it is fully seated in the filler tube. 7. Remove the dipstick and inspect the fluid level. The fluid should be in the operating range for normal operating temperature. Low fluid level Do not drive the vehicle if the fluid level is at the bottom of the dipstick and the outside temperatures are above 50°F (10°C). Correct fluid level The transmission fluid should be checked at normal operating temperatures 185°F-200°F (85°C-93°C) on a level surface. The normal operating temperature can be reached after approximately 20 miles (30 km) of driving. The transmission fluid should be in the zone, identified by the arrow in this figure, if at normal operating temperature 185°F-200°F (85°C-93°C).

ADD (CHECK HOT)

ADD (CHECK HOT)

DO NOT ADD

DO NOT ADD

High fluid level Fluid levels above the zone, identified by the arrows in this figure, may result in transmission failure. An overfill condition of transmission fluid may cause shift and/or engagement concerns and/or possible damage. 320

DO NOT ADD

ADD (CHECK HOT)

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High fluid levels can be caused by an overheating condition. Adjusting automatic transmission fluid levels Before adding any fluid, make sure the correct type is used. The type of fluid used is normally indicated on the dipstick blade. Refer to Maintenance product specifications and capacities in this chapter. Use of a non-approved automatic transmission fluid may cause internal transmission component damage. If necessary, add fluid in 1/2 pint (250 ml) increments through the filler tube until the level is correct. If an overfill occurs, excess fluid should be removed by an authorized dealer.

ADD (CHECK HOT)

DO NOT ADD

An overfill condition of transmission fluid may cause shift and/or engagement concerns and/or possible damage. Do not use supplemental transmission fluid additives, treatments or cleaning agents. The use of these materials may affect transmission operation and result in damage to internal transmission components.

Checking transmission fluid level for recreational flat tow operation Before recreational flat towing your vehicle, the transmission fluid level may need to be set to a lower level. These guidelines are designed to prevent damage to your transmission. Before you recreational flat tow, your fluid level must be verified by an authorized dealer. This fluid level is within the normal operating fluid range and does not require that you have your fluid level readjusted after recreational flat tow operation. See the Tires, Wheels and Loading chapter for more information on recreational flat towing.

ADD (CHECK HOT)

DO NOT ADD

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Checking and adding manual transmission fluid (if equipped) 1. Park the vehicle on a level surface. 2. Engage the parking brake fully – put in first gear. 3. Ensure the vehicle cannot move. 4. Clean the filler plug. 5. Remove the filler plug, located on the lower, forward driver side of the transmission, and inspect the fluid level. 6. Fluid level should be at bottom of the opening. 7. Add enough fluid through the filler opening so that the fluid level is at the bottom of the opening. 8. Install and tighten the fill plug securely. Use only fluid that meets Ford specifications. Refer to the Maintenance product specifications and capacities section in this chapter.

AIR FILTER Refer to scheduled maintenance information for the appropriate intervals for changing the air filter element. When changing the air filter element, use only the air filter element listed. Refer to Motorcraft威 part numbers in this chapter.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of vehicle damage and/or personal burn injuries do not start your engine with the air

cleaner removed and do not remove it while the engine is running.

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Changing the air filter element 1. Release the clamps that secure the air filter housing cover. • 2.5L I4 engine

• 3.0L V6 engine

2. Pull the air filter housing cover away. 3. Remove the air filter element from the air filter housing. 4. Wipe the air filter housing and cover clean to remove any dirt or debris and to ensure good sealing. 5. Install a new air filter element. Be careful not to crimp the filter element edges between the air filter housing and cover. This could cause filter damage and allow unfiltered air to enter the engine if not properly seated. 6. Replace the air filter housing cover and secure the clamps. Note: Failure to use the correct air filter element may result in severe engine damage. The customer warranty may be void for any damage to the engine if the correct air filter element is not used.

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VEHICLE STORAGE If you plan on storing your vehicle for an extended period of time (30 days or more), refer to the following maintenance recommendations to ensure your vehicle stays in good operating condition. All motor vehicles and their components were engineered and tested for reliable, regular driving. Long term storage under various conditions may lead to component degradation or failure unless specific precautions are taken to preserve the components. General • Store all vehicles in a dry, ventilated place. • Protect from sunlight, if possible. • If vehicles are stored outside, they require regular maintenance to Body• Wash vehicle thoroughly to remove dirt, grease, oil, tar or mud from

protect against rust and damage.

exterior surfaces, rear-wheel housing and underside of front fenders. See the Cleaning chapter for more information. • Periodically wash vehicles stored in exposed locations. • Touch-up raw or primed metal to prevent rust. • Cover chrome and stainless steel parts with a thick coat of auto wax

to prevent discoloration. Re-wax as necessary when the vehicle is washed. See the Cleaning chapter for more information.

grade oil. See the Cleaning chapter for more information.

• Lubricate all hood, door and trunk lid hinges, and latches with a light • Cover interior trim to prevent fading. • Keep all rubber parts free from oil and solvents. Engine • The engine oil and filter should be changed prior to storage, as used • Start the engine every 15 days. Run at fast idle until it reaches normal • With your foot on the brake, shift through all the gears while the

engine oil contain contaminates that may cause engine damage.

operating temperature.

engine is running.

Fuel system • Fill the fuel tank with high-quality fuel until the first automatic shutoff

of the fuel pump nozzle.

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Note: During extended periods of vehicle storage (30 days or more), fuel may deteriorate due to oxidation. Add a quality gas stabilizer product to the vehicle fuel system whenever actual or expected storage periods exceed 30 days. Follow the instructions on the additive label. The vehicle should then be operated at idle speed to circulate the additive throughout the fuel system. Cooling system • Protect against freezing temperatures. • When removing vehicle from storage, check coolant fluid level. Confirm there are no cooling system leaks, and fluid is at the recommended level.

Battery • Check and recharge as necessary. Keep connections clean. • If storing your vehicle for more than 30 days without recharging the battery, it may be advisable to disconnect the battery cables to ensure battery charge is maintained for quick starting.

Note: If battery cables are disconnected, it will be necessary to reset memory features. Brakes • Make sure brakes and parking brake are fully released. Tires • Maintain recommended air pressure. Miscellaneous • Make sure all linkages, cables, levers and pins under vehicle are • Move vehicles at least 25 feet (8 m) every 15 days to lubricate

covered with grease to prevent rust.

working parts and prevent corrosion.

window surfaces.

Removing vehicle from storage When your vehicle is ready to come out of storage, do the following: • Wash your vehicle to remove any dirt or grease film build-up on • Check windshield wipers for any deterioration. • Check under the hood for any foreign material that may have collected • Check the exhaust for any foreign material that may have collected

during storage (mice/squirrel nests).

during storage.

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Maintenance and Specifications • Check tire pressures and set tire inflation per the Tire Label. • Check brake pedal operation. Drive the vehicle 15 ft (4.5 meters) back • Check fluid levels (including coolant, oil and gas) to make sure there • If the battery was removed, clean the battery cable ends and inspect. If you have any concerns or issues, contact your authorized dealer.

are no leaks, and fluids are at recommended levels.

and forth to remove rust build-up.

MOTORCRAFT PART NUMBERS

Component

Air filter element

Battery Oil filter

Spark Plugs

2.5L I4 engine

3.0L V6 engine

FA-1772
BXL-40R FL-910

FA-1893
BXL-40R FL-500-S

1For spark plug replacement, see your authorized dealer. Refer to scheduled maintenance information for the appropriate intervals for changing the spark plugs. Replace the spark plugs with ones that meet Ford material and design specifications for your vehicle, such as Motorcraft威 or equivalent replacement parts. The customer warranty may be void for any damage to the engine if such spark plugs are not used.

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