2012 Ford FLEX Owners Manual

information. When your temporary spare tire is installed When one of your road tires needs to be replaced with the temporary spare, the TPMS will continue to identify an issue to remind you that the damaged road wheel/tire needs to be repaired and put back on your vehicle. 232

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To restore the full functionality of the tire pressure monitoring system, have the damaged road wheel/tire repaired and remounted on your vehicle. For additional information, refer to Changing tires with a TPMS in this section. When you believe your system is not operating properly The main function of the tire pressure monitoring system is to warn you when your tires need air. It can also warn you in the event the system is no longer capable of functioning as intended. Please refer to the following chart for information concerning your tire pressure monitoring system: Low tire pressure warning light Solid warning light

Possible cause Customer action required

Tire(s) under- inflated

1. Make sure tires are at the proper pressure. See Inflating your tires in this chapter. 2. After inflating your tires to the manufacturer’s recommended pres- sure as shown on the Tire Label (located on the edge of driver’s door or the B-Pillar), the vehicle must be driven for at least two minutes over 20 mph (32 km/h) before the light turns off.

Spare tire in use Repair the damaged road wheel/tire

TPMS malfunc- tion

and reinstall it on the vehicle to restore system functionality. For a description on how the system functions, refer to When your tem- porary spare tire is installed in this section. If the tires are properly inflated and the spare tire is not in use but the light remains on, contact your authorized dealer as soon as pos- sible.

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Low tire pressure warning light Flashing warn- ing light

Possible cause Customer action required

Spare tire in use Repair the damaged road wheel/tire

and reinstall it on the vehicle to restore system functionality. For a description on how the system functions, refer to When your tem- porary spare tire is installed in this section. If the tires are properly inflated and the spare tire is not in use but the light remains on, contact your authorized dealer as soon as pos- sible.

TPMS malfunc- tion

When inflating your tires When putting air into your tires (such as at a gas station or in your garage), the tire pressure monitoring system may not respond immediately to the air added to your tires. It may take up to two minutes of driving over 20 mph (32 km/h) for the light to turn off after you have filled your tires to the recommended inflation pressure. How temperature affects your tire pressure The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) monitors tire pressure in each pneumatic tire. While driving in a normal manner, a typical passenger tire inflation pressure may increase approximately 2 to 4 psi (14 to 28 kPa) from a cold start situation. If the vehicle is stationary overnight with the outside temperature significantly lower than the daytime temperature, the tire pressure may decrease approximately 3 psi (21 kPa) for a drop of 30°F (17°C) in ambient temperature. This lower pressure value may be detected by the TPMS as being significantly lower than the recommended inflation pressure and activate the TPMS warning light for low tire pressure. If the low tire pressure warning light is on, visually check each tire to verify that no tire is flat. (If one or more tires are flat, repair as necessary.) Check air pressure in the road tires. If any tire is under-inflated, carefully drive the vehicle to the nearest location where air can be added to the tires. Inflate all the tires to the recommended inflation pressure. 234

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SNOW TIRES AND CABLES/CHAINS

WARNING: Snow tires must be the same size, load index, speed rating as those originally provided by Ford. Use of any tire or

wheel not recommended by Ford can affect the safety and performance of your vehicle, which could result in an increased risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death. Additionally, the use of non-recommended tires and wheels could cause steering, suspension, axle or transfer case/power transfer unit failure.

The tires on your vehicle have all-weather treads to provide traction in rain and snow. However, in some climates, you may need to use snow tires and cables . If you need to use cables, it is recommended that steel wheels (of the same size and specifications) be used, as cables may chip aluminum wheels. Note: The suspension insulation and bumpers will help prevent vehicle damage. Do not remove these components from your vehicle when using snow tires and chains. Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and chains: • If possible, avoid fully loading your vehicle. • Use only SAE Class S cables or equivalent on the front axle for

P235/60R17, P235/60R18, and P235/55R19 equipped vehicles. SAE Class S chains or other conventional link chains may cause damage to the vehicles wheel house and/or body. Use of optional spike type traction devices or equivalent is also acceptable.

• Do not install tire chains, cables, or optional traction devices on the rear tires. This could cause damage to the vehicle’s wheel house or body.

• Do not use tire chains, cables, or optional traction devices with • Install cable chains securely, verifying that the cables do not touch any

255/45R20 tires.

wiring, brake lines or fuel lines.

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Tires, Wheels and Loading • Do not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h) with tire cables on your vehicle. • Drive cautiously. If you hear the cables rub or bang against your

vehicle, stop and retighten the cables. If this does not work, remove the cables to prevent damage to your vehicle. • Remove the tire cables when they are no longer needed. Do not use

tire cables on dry roads.

VEHICLE LOADING – WITH AND WITHOUT A TRAILER This section will guide you in the proper loading of your vehicle and/or trailer, to keep your loaded vehicle weight within its design rating capability, with or without a trailer. Properly loading your vehicle will provide maximum return of vehicle design performance. Before loading your vehicle, familiarize yourself with the following terms for determining your vehicle’s weight ratings, with or without a trailer, from the vehicle’s Tire Label or Safety Compliance Certification Label: Base Curb Weight – is the weight of the vehicle including a full tank of fuel and all standard equipment. It does not include passengers, cargo, or optional equipment. Vehicle Curb Weight – is the weight of your new vehicle when you picked it up from your authorized dealer plus any aftermarket equipment.

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Payload – is the combined weight of cargo and passengers that the vehicle is carrying. The maximum payload for your vehicle can be found on the Tire Label on the B-Pillar or the edge of the driver’s door (vehicles exported outside the US and Canada may not have a Tire Label). Look for “THE COMBINED WEIGHT OF OCCUPANTS AND CARGO SHOULD NEVER EXCEED XXX kg OR XXX lb.” for maximum payload. The payload listed on the Tire Label is the maximum payload for the vehicle as built by the assembly plant. If any aftermarket or authorized-dealer installed equipment has been installed on the vehicle, the weight of the equipment must be subtracted from the payload listed on the Tire Label in order to determine the new payload.

WARNING: The appropriate loading capacity of your vehicle can be limited either by volume capacity (how much space is

available) or by payload capacity (how much weight the vehicle should carry). Once you have reached the maximum payload of your vehicle, do not add more cargo, even if there is space available. Overloading or improperly loading your vehicle can contribute to loss of vehicle control and vehicle rollover.

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Example only:

Cargo Weight – includes all weight added to the Base Curb Weight, including cargo and optional equipment. When towing, trailer tongue load weight is also part of cargo weight. GAW (Gross Axle Weight) – is the total weight placed on each axle (front and rear) – including vehicle curb weight and all payload. 238

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GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) – is the maximum allowable weight that can be carried by a single axle (front or rear). These numbers are shown on the Safety Compliance Certification Label located on the B-Pillar or the edge of the driver’s door. The total load on each axle must never exceed its GAWR. Note: For trailer towing information refer to Trailer towing found in this chapter or the RV and Trailer Towing Guide provided by your authorized dealer.

GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) – is the Vehicle Curb Weight + cargo + passengers. GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) – is the maximum allowable weight of the fully loaded vehicle (including all options, equipment, passengers and cargo). The GVWR is shown on the Safety Compliance Certification Label located on the B-Pillar or the edge of the driver’s door. The GVW must never exceed the GVWR.

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Tires, Wheels and Loading • Example only:

WARNING: Exceeding the Safety Compliance Certification Label vehicle weight rating limits could result in substandard vehicle

handling or performance, engine, transmission and/or structural damage, serious damage to the vehicle, loss of control and personal injury.

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GCW (Gross Combined Weight) – is the weight of the loaded vehicle (GVW) plus the weight of the fully loaded trailer. GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) – is the maximum allowable weight of the vehicle and the loaded trailer – including all cargo and passengers – that the vehicle can handle without risking damage. (Important: The towing vehicle’s braking system is rated for operation at GVWR, not at GCWR. Separate functional brakes should be used for safe control of towed vehicles and for trailers where the GCW of the towing vehicle plus the trailer exceed the GVWR of the towing vehicle. The GCW must never exceed the GCWR. Maximum Loaded Trailer Weight – is the highest possible weight of a fully loaded trailer the vehicle can tow. It assumes a vehicle with only mandatory options, no cargo (internal or external), a tongue load of 10–15% (conventional trailer), and driver only (150 lb. [68 kg]). Consult your authorized dealer (or the RV and Trailer Towing Guide provided by your authorized dealer) for more detailed information.

WARNING: Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the Safety Compliance Certification Label.

WARNING: Do not use replacement tires with lower load carrying capacities than the original tires because they may

lower the vehicle’s GVWR and GAWR limitations. Replacement tires with a higher limit than the original tires do not increase the GVWR and GAWR limitations.

WARNING: Exceeding any vehicle weight rating limitation could result in serious damage to the vehicle and/or personal injury.

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Steps for determining the correct load limit: 1. Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your vehicle’s placard. 2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle. 3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kg or XXX lbs. 4. The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1,400 lbs. and there will be five 150 lb. passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. (1400–750 (5 x 150) = 650 lb.). In metric units (635–340 (5 x 68) = 295 kg.) 5. Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4. 6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle. The following gives you a few examples on how to calculate the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity: • Another example for your vehicle with 1,400 lb. (635 kg) of cargo and luggage capacity. You decide to go golfing. Is there enough load capacity to carry you, 4 of your friends and all the golf bags? You and four friends average 220 lb. (99 kg) each and the golf bags weigh approximately 30 lb. (13.5 kg) each. The calculation would be: 1,400 - (5 x 220) - (5 x 30) = 1,400 - 1,100 - 150 = 150 lb. Yes, you have enough load capacity in your vehicle to transport four friends and your golf bags. In metric units, the calculation would be: 635 kg - (5 x 99 kg) - (5 x 13.5 kg) = 635 - 495 - 67.5 = 72.5 kg. • A final example for your vehicle with 1,400 lb. (635 kg) of cargo and luggage capacity. You and one of your friends decide to pick up cement from the local home improvement store to finish that patio you have been planning for the past 2 years. Measuring the inside of the vehicle with the rear seat folded down, you have room for 12-100 lb. (45 kg) bags of cement. Do you have enough load capacity to transport the cement to your home? If you and your friend each weigh 220 lb. (99 kg), the calculation would be: 1,400 - (2 x 220) - (12 x 100) = 1,400 - 440 - 1,200 = - 240 lb. No, you do not have enough cargo capacity to carry that much weight. In metric units, the

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calculation would be: 635 kg - (2 x 99 kg) - (12 x 45 kg) = 635 - 198 - 540 = -103 kg. You will need to reduce the load weight by at least 240 lb. (104 kg). If you remove 3-100 lb. (45 kg) cement bags, then the load calculation would be: 1,400 - (2 x 220) - (9 x 100) = 1,400 - 440 - 900 = 60 lb. Now you have the load capacity to transport the cement and your friend home. In metric units, the calculation would be: 635 kg - (2 x 99 kg) - (9 x 45 kg) = 635 - 198 - 405 = 32 kg.

The above calculations also assume that the loads are positioned in your vehicle in a manner that does not overload the Front or the Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating specified for your vehicle on the Safety Compliance Certification Label found on the edge of the driver’s door.

1,000 miles (1,600 km).

TRAILER TOWING Trailer towing puts additional loads on your vehicle’s engine, transmission, axle, brakes, tires and suspension. For your safety and to maximize vehicle performance, be sure to use the proper equipment while towing. Follow these guidelines to ensure safe towing: • Do not tow a trailer until your vehicle has been driven at least • Consult your local motor vehicle laws for towing a trailer. • Refer to the instructions included with towing accessories for the • Thoroughly prepare your vehicle for towing. Refer to Preparing to • Stay within your vehicle’s load limits. • Use extra caution when driving while trailer towing. Refer to Driving • Service your vehicle more frequently if you tow a trailer. Refer to

proper installation and adjustment specifications.

while you tow in this section.

tow in this chapter.

Special operating conditions in your scheduled maintenance.

For load specification terms found on the label, refer to Vehicle loading – with and without a trailer in this chapter. Remember to figure in the tongue load of your loaded vehicle when figuring the total weight.

WARNING: Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the certification label.

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WARNING: Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended gross trailer weight exceeds the limit of the vehicle and could

result in engine damage, transmission damage, structural damage, loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover and personal injury.

Powertrain

Maximum

GCWR - lb (kg)

Maximum Trailer Weight - lb (kg)

6900 (3131) 7050 (3199) 7072 (3209) 9357 (4245) 9521 (4320) 9622 (4366)

2000 (907) 3.5L FWD Class I 2000 (907) 3.5L AWD Class I 2000 (907) EcoBoost™ Class I 4500 (2042)1
3.5L FWD Class III 4500 (2042)2
3.5L AWD Class III 4500 (2042)2
EcoBoost™ Class III 1For towing trailers up to 3500 lb (1588 kg), use a weight-carrying hitch and ball which uniformly spreads the trailer tongue loads through the vehicle’s underbody structure. For towing trailers over 3500 lb (1588 kg), up to 4500 lb (2042 kg), it is recommended to use a weight-distributing hitch to increase front axle load while towing. 2For towing trailers up to 4500 lb (2042 kg), use a weight-carrying hitch and ball which uniformly spreads the trailer tongue loads through the vehicle’s underbody structure.

Preparing to tow Use the proper equipment for towing a trailer and make sure it is properly attached to your vehicle. Contact your authorized dealer or a reliable trailer dealer as soon as possible if you require assistance.

Hitches Do not use a hitch that clamps onto the vehicle’s bumper; use a load-carrying hitch. You must distribute the load in your trailer so that 10–15% of the total weight of the trailer is on the tongue. Weight-distributing hitch When hooking-up a trailer using a weight-distributing hitch, always use the following procedure: 1. Park the vehicle (without the trailer) on a level surface. 2. Measure the height of the top of the front wheel opening on the fender, this is H1. 244

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3. Attach the trailer to the vehicle without the weight distributing bars connected. 4. Measure the height of the top of the front wheel opening on the fender a second time, this is H2. 5. Install and adjust the tension in the weight distributing bars so that the height of the front fender is approximately halfway between H1 and H2. 6. Check that the trailer is level. If not level, adjust the ball height accordingly and repeat Steps 3–6.

WARNING: Do not adjust a weight-distributing hitch to any position where the rear bumper of the vehicle is higher than it was before attaching the trailer. Doing so will defeat the function of the weight-distributing hitch, which may cause unpredictable handling, and could result in serious personal injury.

Safety chains Always connect the trailer’s safety chains to the frame or hook retainers of the vehicle hitch. To connect the trailer’s safety chains, cross the chains under the trailer tongue and allow slack for turning corners. If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions that the rental agency gives to you. Do not attach safety chains to the bumper.

Trailer brakes Electric brakes and manual, automatic or surge-type trailer brakes are safe if installed properly and adjusted to the manufacturer’s specifications. The trailer brakes must meet local and Federal regulations.

WARNING: Do not connect a trailer’s hydraulic brake system directly to your vehicle’s brake system. Your vehicle may not have enough braking power and your chances of having a collision greatly increase.

The braking system of the tow vehicle is rated for operation at the GVWR not GCWR.

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Trailer brake controller connector (if equipped) The trailer brake controller connector is located under the instrument panel above the brake pedal.

Trailer lamps Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure all running lights, brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights are working. Do not connect trailer lamps directly to your vehicle’s tail lamps. This can cause damage to your vehicle’s electrical system. Contact your authorized dealer or trailer rental agency for proper instructions and equipment for hooking-up trailer lamps.

WARNING: Never connect any trailer lamp wiring to the vehicle’s tail lamp wiring; this may damage the electrical system resulting in fire. Contact your authorized dealer as soon as possible for assistance in proper trailer tow wiring installation. Additional electrical equipment may be required.

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Driving while you tow When towing a trailer: • Turn off the speed control. The speed control may shut off automatically when you are towing on long, steep grades. • It is recommended to select the L (Low) or M (Manual) gear position

when additional engine braking is needed. In situations such as prolonged downhill driving on steep grades (i.e., driving in mountainous areas), additional engine braking is needed to reduce the load on the vehicle’s regular brake system to prevent them from overheating.

• Allow more distance for stopping with a trailer attached; anticipate

stops and brake gradually.

Trailer towing tips • Practice turning, stopping and backing-up before starting on a trip to get the feel of the vehicle-trailer combination. When turning, make wider turns so the trailer wheels will clear curbs and other obstacles. • To aid in engine/transmission cooling and A/C efficiency during hot • After you have traveled 50 miles (80 km), thoroughly check your • If you are driving down a long or steep hill, shift to a lower gear. Do not apply the brakes continuously, as they may overheat and become less effective.

weather while stopped in traffic, place the gearshift lever in P (Park).

hitch, electrical connections and trailer wheel lug nuts.

• Vehicles with trailers should not be parked on a grade. If you must

park on a grade, place wheel chocks under the trailer’s wheels.

RECREATIONAL TOWING Follow these guidelines for your specific powertrain combination to tow your vehicle for personal travel (such as behind a motor home or a truck). Note: Put your climate control system in recirculated air mode to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the vehicle. Refer to the Climate Controls chapter for more information. In case of a roadside emergency with a disabled vehicle, please refer to Wrecker towing in the Roadside Emergencies chapter. These guidelines are designed to prevent damage to your vehicle after it is hooked-up to the RV or tow dolly.

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Front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicles can be towed with all four wheels on the ground or with the front wheels off the ground by using a tow dolly. If you are using a tow dolly follow the instructions specified by the equipment provider. If you are towing with all four wheels on the ground, refer to the towing instructions below. All-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles can be towed with all four wheels on the ground or with all four wheels off the ground using a vehicle transport trailer. Do not tow your AWD vehicle with the front wheels off the ground (by using a tow dolly) and the rear wheels on the ground; this will cause damage to your AWD system. If you are using a vehicle transport trailer, follow the instruction specified by the equipment provider. If you are towing with all four wheels on the ground, refer to the towing instructions below. If you tow your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground, follow these instructions: • Tow only in the forward direction. • Release the parking brake. • Place the transmission shift lever in N (Neutral). • Place the ignition in the accessory position (refer to Starting in the • Do not exceed 65 mph (105 km/h) • Start the engine and allow it to run for five minutes at the beginning

Driving chapter).

of each day and at each fuel stop.

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Driving

STARTING

Positions of the ignition 1. Off— locks the automatic transmission gearshift lever and allows key removal. This position also shuts the engine and all electrical accessories off without locking the steering wheel. To lock the steering wheel, remove the key then turn the steering wheel. Note: In order to switch off the engine while the vehicle is in motion, shift to neutral and use the brakes to bring the vehicle to a safe stop. After the vehicle has stopped, turn the engine off and shift into park. Then, turn the key to the accessory or off position. 2. Accessory— allows the electrical accessories such as the radio to operate while the engine is not running. This position also unlocks the steering wheel. 3. On— all electrical circuits operational. Warning lights illuminated. Key position when driving. 4. Start— cranks the engine. Release the key as soon as the engine starts. Note: Do not store the key in the ignition after the vehicle is turned off and you have left the vehicle. This could cause a drain on the battery.

Starting your vehicle This system meets all Canadian interference-causing equipment standard requirements regulating the impulse electrical field strength of radio noise. Don’t press the accelerator before or during starting. Only use the accelerator when you have difficulty starting the engine. For more information on starting the vehicle, refer to Starting the engine in this chapter. To avoid potential transmission damage at extremely cold temperatures (below -20°F [-30°C]), it is recommended that the vehicle be warmed up to normal operating temperature before driving at highway speeds above 50 mph (80 km/h). Normal operating temperature is normally reached after 10 minutes of moderate driving or idling.

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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.

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.

WARNING: Do not start your vehicle in a closed garage or in other enclosed areas. Exhaust fumes can be toxic. Always open

the garage door before you start the engine. See Guarding against exhaust fumes in this chapter for more instructions.

WARNING: If you smell exhaust fumes inside your vehicle, have your dealer inspect your vehicle immediately. Do not drive if you

smell exhaust fumes.

Important safety precautions A computer system controls the engine’s idle revolutions per minute (RPM). When the engine starts, the idle RPM runs higher than normal in order to warm the engine. If the engine idle speed does not slow down automatically, have the vehicle checked. Before starting the vehicle: 1. Make sure all vehicle occupants have buckled their safety belts. For more information on safety belts and their proper usage, refer to the Seating and Safety Restraints chapter. 2. Make sure vehicle accessories are off.

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• Make sure the parking brake is

set.

Driving

• Make sure the gearshift lever is in

P (Park).

3. Turn the key to 3 (on) without turning the key to 4 (start).

Some warning lights will briefly illuminate. See Warning lights and chimes in the Instrument Cluster chapter for more information regarding the warning lights.

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Driving

Starting the engine 1. Turn the key to 3 (on) without turning the key to 4 (start). If there is difficulty in turning the key, rotate the steering wheel until the key turns freely. This condition may occur when: • the front wheels are turned • a front wheel is against the curb 2. Turn the key to 4 (start), then release the key as soon as the engine begins cranking. Your vehicle has a computer assisted cranking system that assists in starting the engine. After releasing the key from the 4
(start) position, the engine may continue cranking for up to 10 seconds or until the vehicle starts. Note: Cranking may be stopped at any time by turning the key to the off position 3. After idling for a few seconds, release the parking brake, apply the brake, shift into gear and drive. Note: If the engine does not start on the first try, turn the key to the off position, wait 10 seconds and try Step 2 again. If the engine still fails to start, press the accelerator to the floor and try Step 2 again, keeping the accelerator on the floor until the engine begins to accelerate above cranking speeds; this will allow the engine to crank with the fuel shut off in case the engine is flooded with fuel.

Guarding Against Exhaust Fumes

WARNING: If you smell exhaust fumes inside your vehicle, have your dealer inspect your vehicle immediately. Do not drive if you

smell exhaust fumes.

Carbon monoxide is present in exhaust fumes. Take precautions to avoid its dangerous effects.

Important Ventilating Information If the engine is idling while the vehicle is stopped for a long period of time, open the windows at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) or adjust the heating or air conditioning to bring in fresh air. 252

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ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (IF EQUIPPED)

WARNING: Failure to follow engine block heater instructions could result in property damage or physical injury.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not use your heater with ungrounded electrical systems or two-pronged

(cheater) adapters.

An engine block heater warms the engine coolant which aids in starting and allows the heater/defroster system to respond quickly. If your vehicle is equipped with this system, your equipment includes a heater element which is installed in your engine block and a wire harness which allows the user to connect the system to a grounded 120 volt A/C electrical source. The block heater system is most effective when outdoor temperatures reach below 0°F (-18°C). Prior to using the engine block heater, follow these recommendations for proper and safe operation: • For your safety, use an outdoor extension cord that is product certified by Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL) or Canadian Standards Association (CSA). Use only an extension cord that can be used outdoors, in cold temperatures, and is clearly marked “Suitable for Use with Outdoor Appliances.” Never use an indoor extension cord outdoors; it could result in an electric shock or fire hazard.

• Use a 16-gauge outdoor extension cord, minimum. • Use as short an extension cord as possible. • Do not use multiple extension cords. Instead, use one extension cord which is long enough to reach from the engine block heater cord to the outlet without stretching. • Make certain that the extension cord is in excellent condition (not patched or spliced). Store your extension cord indoors at temperatures above 32°F (0°C). Outdoor conditions can deteriorate extension cords over a period of time. • To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not use your heater with ungrounded electrical systems or two pronged (cheater) adapters. Also ensure that the block heater, especially the cord, is in good condition before use. • Make sure that when in operation, the extension cord plug/engine

block heater cord plug connection is free and clear of water in order to prevent possible shock or fire.

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Driving • Be sure that areas where the vehicle is parked are clean and clear of all combustibles such as petroleum products, dust, rags, paper and similar items.

• Be sure that the engine block heater, heater cord and extension cord are solidly connected. A poor connection can cause the cord to become very hot and may result in an electrical shock or fire. Be sure to check for heat anywhere in the electrical hookup once the system has been operating for approximately a half hour. • Finally, have the engine block heater system checked during your fall

tune-up to be sure it’s in good working order.

How to use the engine block heater Ensure the receptacle terminals are clean and dry prior to use. To clean them, use a dry cloth. Depending on the type of factory installed equipment, your engine block heater will use .4 to 1.0 kilowatt-hours of energy per hour of use. Your factory installed block heater system does not have a thermostat; however, maximum temperature is attained after approximately three hours of operation. Block heater operation longer than three hours will not improve system performance and will unnecessarily use additional electricity. Make sure system is unplugged and properly stowed before driving the vehicle. While not in use, make sure the protective cover seals the prongs of the engine block heater cord plug.

BRAKES Occasional brake noise is normal. If a metal-to-metal, continuous grinding or continuous squeal sound is present, the brake linings may be worn-out and should be inspected by an authorized dealer. If the vehicle has continuous vibration or shudder in the steering wheel while braking, the vehicle should be inspected by an authorized dealer. Refer to Warning lights and chimes in the Instrument Cluster chapter for information on the brake system warning light.

BRAKE

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Driving

Four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS) Your vehicle is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS). This system helps you maintain steering control during emergency stops by keeping the brakes from locking. Noise from the ABS pump motor and brake pedal pulsation may be observed during ABS braking and the brake pedal may suddenly travel a little farther as soon as ABS braking is done and normal brake operation resumes. These are normal characteristics of the ABS and should be no reason for concern. Using ABS When hard braking is required, apply continuous force on the brake pedal. Do not pump the brake pedal since this will reduce the effectiveness of the ABS and will increase your vehicle’s stopping distance. The ABS will be activated immediately, allowing you to retain steering control during hard braking and on slippery surfaces. However, the ABS does not decrease stopping distance. Brake assist The brake assist system provides full braking force during panic braking situations. It detects a rapid application of the brake pedal and uses the ABS system to achieve maximum braking pressure. Once a panic brake application is detected, the system will remain activated as long as the brake pedal is pressed or ABS is engaged. The system is deactivated by either releasing the brake pedal or coming to a complete stop. When the system activates, noise from the ABS pump motor and brake pedal pulsation may be observed; this is normal. ABS warning lamp The ABS lamp in the instrument cluster momentarily illuminates when the ignition is turned on. If the light does not illuminate during start up, remains on or flashes, the ABS is disabled due to a malfunction and needs to be serviced. Even when the ABS is disabled, normal braking is still effective. If your BRAKE warning lamp BRAKE illuminates with the parking brake released, have your brake system serviced immediately.

ABS

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Brake over accelerator This vehicle is equipped with a brake over accelerator feature. In the event the accelerator pedal becomes stuck or entrapped, applying steady and firm pressure to the brake pedal will both slow the vehicle and reduce engine power. If you experience this condition, apply the brakes and bring your vehicle to a safe stop. Turn the engine off, shift to P (Park) and apply the parking brake, and then inspect the accelerator pedal for any interferences. If none are found and the condition persists, have your vehicle towed to the nearest authorized dealer.

Parking brake Apply the parking brake whenever the vehicle is parked. To set the parking brake, press the parking brake pedal down until the pedal stops.

The BRAKE warning lamp in the instrument cluster illuminates and remains illuminated (when the ignition is turned on) until the parking brake is released.

BRAKE

WARNING: Always set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park).

The parking brake is not recommended to stop a moving vehicle. However, if the normal brakes fail, the parking brake can be used to stop your vehicle in an emergency. Since the parking brake applies only the rear brakes, the vehicle’s stopping distance will increase greatly and the handling of your vehicle will be adversely affected.

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Press the parking brake pedal downward again to release the parking brake. Driving with the parking brake on will cause the brakes to wear out quickly and reduce fuel economy. Note: If the vehicle is driven with the parking brake applied, a chime will sound.

ADVANCETRAC姞 WITH ROLL STABILITY CONTROL™ (RSC姞) STABILITY ENHANCEMENT SYSTEM Your vehicle is equipped with the AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system. The AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system provides the following stability enhancement features for certain driving situation s: • Traction Control System (TCS), which functions to help avoid • Electronic Stability Control (ESC), which functions to help avoid skids • Roll Stability Control™ (RSC威), which functions to help avoid a

drive-wheel spin and loss of traction.

or lateral slides.

vehicle roll-over.

WARNING: Vehicle modifications involving braking system, aftermarket roof racks, suspension, steering system, tire

construction and/or wheel/tire size may change the handling characteristics of the vehicle and may adversely affect the performance of the AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system. In addition, installing any stereo loudspeakers may interfere with and adversely affect the AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system. Install any aftermarket stereo loudspeaker as far as possible from the front center console, the tunnel, and the front seats in order to minimize the risk of interfering with the AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 sensors. Reducing the effectiveness of the AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system could lead to an increased risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.

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WARNING: Remember that even advanced technology cannot defy the laws of physics. It’s always possible to lose control of a vehicle due to inappropriate driver input for the conditions. Aggressive driving on any road condition can cause you to lose control of your vehicle increasing the risk of personal injury or property damage. Activation of the AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system is an indication that at least some of the tires have exceeded their ability to grip the road; this could reduce the operator’s ability to control the vehicle, potentially resulting in a loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death. If your AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system activates, SLOW DOWN.

WARNING: If a failure has been detected within the AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system, the stability control light will

illuminate steadily and you may hear a chime. If equipped with a message center, the vehicle will also indicate a failure with the brake system. Have the system serviced by an authorized dealer immediately.

The AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system automatically enables each time the engine is started. All features of the AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system (TCS, ESC, and RSC威) are active and monitor the vehicle from start-up. However, the system will only intervene if the driving situation requires it. The AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system includes an AdvanceTrac威 button located on the center of the instrument panel. The stability control light and the stability control off light in the instrument cluster will illuminate temporarily during start-up as part of a normal system self-check. The stability control light may illuminate (flash) during certain driving situations which cause the AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system to operate. If the stability control light illuminates steadily, have the system serviced by an authorized dealer immediately. The message center will also indicate a failure with the AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system. Note: If the system cannot be turned off, refer to MyKey威 in the Locks and Security chapter for more information. When AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 performs a normal system self-check, some drivers may notice a slight movement of the brake, and/or a rumble, grunting, or grinding noise after startup and when driving off. 258

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When an event occurs that activates AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 you may experience the following: • A slight deceleration of the vehicle • The stability control light will flash. • If your foot is on the brake pedal, a vibration in the pedal. • If the driving condition is severe and your foot is not on the brake, the brake pedal may move as the systems applies higher brake forces. You may also hear a whoosh of air from under the instrument panel during this severe condition.

• The brake pedal may feel stiffer than usual. Traction Control System (TCS) The traction control system is a driver aid feature that helps your vehicle maintain traction of the wheels, typically when driving on slippery and/or hilly road surfaces, by detecting and controlling wheel spin. Excessive wheel spin is controlled in two ways, which may work separately or in tandem: engine traction control and brake traction control. Engine traction control works to limit drive-wheel spin by momentarily reducing engine power. Brake traction control works to limit wheel spin by momentarily applying the brakes to the wheel that is slipping. Traction control is most active at low speeds. During TCS events, the stability control light in the instrument cluster will flash. If the TCS is activated excessively in a short period of time, the braking portion of the system may become temporarily disabled to allow the brakes to cool down. In this situation, TCS will use only engine power reduction or transfer to help control the wheels from over-spinning. When the brakes have cooled down, the system will regain all features. Anti-lock braking, RSC威, and ESC will continue to function during the cool-down period. The engine traction control and brake traction control system may be deactivated in certain situations. See the Switching off traction control section following. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Electronic stability control (ESC) may enhance your vehicle’s directional stability during adverse maneuvers, for example when cornering severely or avoiding objects in the roadway. ESC operates by applying brakes to one or more of the wheels individually and, if necessary, reducing engine power if the system detects that the vehicle is about to skid or slide laterally.

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During ESC events, the stability control light in the instrument cluster will flash. Certain adverse driving maneuvers may activate the ESC system, which include but are not limited to: • Taking a turn too fast • Maneuvering quickly to avoid an accident, pedestrian or obstacle • Driving over a patch of ice or other slippery surfaces • Changing lanes on a snow-rutted road • Entering a snow-free road from a snow-covered side street, or vice • Entering a paved road from a gravel road, or vice versa • Cornering while towing a heavily loaded trailer (refer to Trailer

versa

towing in the Tires, Wheels and Loading chapter).

Roll Stability Control™ (RSC威) Roll Stability Control™ (RSC威) may help to maintain roll stability of the vehicle during adverse maneuvers. RSC威 operates by detecting the vehicle’s roll motion and the rate at which it changes and by applying the brakes to one or more wheels individually. During an event that activates the RSC威 system, the stability control light in the instrument cluster will flash. Certain adverse driving maneuvers may activate the RSC威 system, which include: • Emergency lane-change • Taking a turn too fast • Quick maneuvering to avoid an accident, pedestrian or obstacle Switching off traction control If the vehicle is stuck in snow, mud or sand, and seems to lose engine power, switching off the traction control feature of the AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system may be beneficial because the wheels are allowed to spin. This will restore full engine power and will enhance momentum through the obstacle. To turn off the traction control system, press the AdvanceTrac威 button. Full features of the TCS can be restored by pressing the traction control button again or by turning off and restarting the engine. 260

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If you switch off the traction control, the stability control off light will illuminate steadily. Pressing the traction control button again will turn off the stability control light. In R (Reverse), ABS and the engine traction control and brake traction control features will continue to function; however, ESC and RSC威 are disabled.

OFF

AdvanceTrac威 Features

Control switch functions

Mode

Default at start-up

System Initial-

ization

Stability control

off light Turns on during bulb check

Message center dis-

play

ESC/ RSC

TCS

Nothing Dis-

played

En- abled Enabled

On

Off

OFF

trol OFF

Dis- abled

En- abled

Traction con-

TRACTION CONTROL

ADVANCE- TRAC ON

AdvanceTrac威 fully enabled

Control switch pressed once mo- mentarily Control switch pressed again after deactiva- tion Trailer sway control (if equipped) Your vehicle may be equipped with trailer sway control. When properly equipped, trailer sway control will use the vehicle’s AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system to detect and mitigate trailer sway by applying brake force at individual wheels and, if necessary, by reducing engine power. Note: Trailer sway control does not prevent a trailer from swaying, it mitigates the sway from increasing once it has occurred. TSC cannot stop all trailers from swaying. If you are experiencing trailer sway it is likely that the trailer is improperly loaded for the correct tongue weight or the speed of the vehicle and trailer is too high. Pull the vehicle-trailer over to a safe location to check the trailer weight distribution and tongue load and reduce speed to a safe level while towing. If trailer sway is

En- abled Enabled

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experienced, SLOW DOWN. Always use caution when towing a trailer and follow the tongue weight recommendations. Refer to Trailer towing in the Tires, Wheels and Loading chapter for more information on towing a trailer with your vehicle. During trailer sway control events, the stability control light in the instrument cluster will flash momentarily. The cluster message center will also display TRAILER SWAY REDUCE SPEED. In some cases when trailer sway is detected, the vehicle speed is too high and may be at or above a speed at which trailer sway will grow continuously. This may cause the system to activate multiple times, causing a gradual reduction in speed. Disabling trailer sway control Trailer sway control can be disabled during any key cycle. To disable trailer sway control, refer to the Message center in the Instrument Cluster chapter. Note that regardless of chosen enable state, trailer sway control will be re-enabled each new key cycle.

WARNING: Turning off trailer sway control increases the risk of loss of vehicle control, serious injury, or death. Ford does not recommend disabling this feature except in situations where speed reduction may be detrimental (e.g., hill climbing), the driver has significant trailer towing experience, and can control trailer sway and maintain safe operation.

STEERING 3.5L EcoBoost™ engine: Your vehicle is equipped with an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. There is no fluid reservoir to check or fill. If your vehicle loses electrical power while you are driving (or if the ignition is turned off), you can steer the vehicle manually, but it takes more effort. Extreme continuous steering may increase the effort it takes for you to steer. This occurs to prevent internal overheating and permanent damage to your steering system. If this should occur, you will neither lose the ability to steer the vehicle manually nor will it cause permanent damage. Typical steering and driving maneuvers will allow the system to cool and steering assist will return to normal. The EPS system has diagnostic checks that continuously monitor the EPS system to ensure proper operation. When a system error is detected, the following message SERVICE POWER STEERING, SERVICE POWER STEERING NOW or POWER STEERING ASSIST FAULT may display in the message center, refer to the Message center in the Instrument Cluster chapter for more information. 262

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WARNING: The EPS system has diagnostics checks that continuously monitor the EPS system to ensure proper operation

of the electronic system. When an electronic error is detected, the message POWER STEERING ASSIST FAULT will be displayed in the message center. If this happens, stop the vehicle in a safe place, and turn off the engine. After at least 10 seconds, reset the system by restarting the engine, and watch the message center for POWER STEERING ASSIST FAULT. If the message returns, or returns while driving, take the vehicle to your dealer to have it checked. With the message displayed, the steering assist is turned off, making the vehicle harder to steer.

WARNING: If the message SERVICE POWER STEERING is displayed in the message center, the EPS system has detected a problem with the system function. On the next key cycle the message SERVICE POWER STEERING NOW will be displayed and steering assist will be removed until the steering system is serviced. Have your vehicle taken to the nearest dealer as soon as possible.

3.5L Duratec V6 engine: Your vehicle is equipped with a hydraulic steering system. To help prevent damage to the power steering system, never hold the steering wheel at its furthest turning points (until it stops) for more than a few seconds when the engine is running. If the power steering system breaks down (or if the engine is turned off), you can steer the vehicle manually, but it takes more effort. • Do not operate the vehicle with a low power steering pump fluid level • Some noise is normal during operation. If excessive, check for low

(below the MIN mark on the reservoir).

power steering pump fluid level before seeking service by your authorized dealer.

• Heavy or uneven steering efforts may be caused by low power steering pump fluid level. Check for low power steering pump fluid level before seeking service by your authorized dealer. • Do not fill the power steering pump reservoir above the MAX mark on

the reservoir, as this may result in leaks from the reservoir.

If the steering wanders or pulls equipped with either EPS or hydraulic steering system, check for: • an improperly inflated tire

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Driving • uneven tire wear • loose or worn suspension components • loose or worn steering components • improper vehicle alignment A high crown in the road or high crosswinds may also make the steering seem to wander/pull.

WARNING: Obtain immediate service if a system error is detected. You may not notice any difference in the feel of your

steering, but a serious condition may exist. Failure to do so may result in loss of steering control.

BRAKE-SHIFT INTERLOCK

WARNING: Do not drive your vehicle until you verify that the brakelamps are working.

WARNING: When doing this procedure, you will be taking the vehicle out of park which means the vehicle can roll freely. To avoid unwanted vehicle movement, always fully set the parking brake prior to doing this procedure. Use wheel chocks if appropriate.

WARNING: If the parking brake is fully released, but the brake warning lamp remains illuminated, the brakes may not be

working properly. See your authorized dealer.

Note: See your authorized dealer as soon as possible if this procedure is used. This vehicle is equipped with a brake-shift interlock feature that prevents the gearshift lever from being moved from P (Park) when the ignition is on unless the brake pedal is pressed. If you cannot move the gearshift lever out of P (Park) with the ignition on and the brake pedal pressed, it is possible that a fuse has blown or the vehicle’s brake lamps are not operating properly. Refer to the Fuses chapter.

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If the fuse is not blown and the brake lamps are working properly, the following procedure will allow you to move the gearshift lever from P (Park): 1. Apply the parking brake, turn the ignition off, and remove the key. 2. Using a screwdriver (or similar tool), carefully pry off and remove the chrome trim ring (1) from the shifter base. 3. Open the storage compartment lid and carefully pry the trim panel (2) up from rear attachments on the storage compartment and disconnect it from the console. 4. Locate the brake shift interlock lever on the passenger side of the shifter assembly. 5. Apply the brake pedal. Using a screwdriver (or similar tool), press and hold the brake shift interlock lever while pulling the gearshift lever out of the P (Park) and into the N (Neutral). 6. Install the trim panel (2) and then the chrome ring (1). 7. Apply the brake pedal, start the engine and release the parking brake.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OPERATION

Automatic transmission adaptive learning Your transmission is equipped with an adaptive learning strategy found in the vehicle computer. This feature is designed to increase durability and provide consistent shift feel over the life of the vehicle. A new vehicle or transmission may have firm and/or soft shifts. This operation is considered normal and will not affect function or durability of the transmission. Over time, the adaptive learning process will fully update transmission operation. Additionally, whenever the battery is disconnected or a new battery installed, the strategy must be relearned.

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Understanding the gearshift positions of the 6–speed automatic transmission with transmission control switch (if equipped) Your vehicle has been designed to improve fuel economy by reducing fuel usage while coasting or decelerating. When you take your foot off the accelerator pedal and the vehicle begins to slow down, the torque converter clutch locks up and aggressively shuts off fuel flow to the engine while decelerating. This fuel economy benefit may be perceived as a light to medium braking sensation when removing your foot from the accelerator pedal. P (Park) This position locks the transmission and prevents the front wheels from turning. To put your vehicle in gear: • Press the brake pedal • Move the gearshift lever into the

desired gear

To put your vehicle in P (Park): • Come to a complete stop • Move the gearshift lever and securely latch it in P (Park)

WARNING: Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the off

position and remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.

R (Reverse) With the gearshift lever in R (Reverse), the vehicle will move backward. Always come to a complete stop before shifting into and out of R (Reverse). N (Neutral) With the gearshift lever in N (Neutral), the vehicle can be started and is free to roll. Hold the brake pedal down while in this position. D (Drive) with Overdrive The normal driving position for the best fuel economy. Transmission operates in gears one through six. 266

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The automatic transmission shift strategy has the ability to detect hilly terrain or mountainous areas and will provide a limited amount of grade assist features automatically. Refer to D (Drive) with Grade Assist or SelectShift Automatic™ Transmission for more information. D (Drive) with Grade Assist Pressing the transmission control switch on the side of the gearshift lever activates Grade Assist and cancels Overdrive. Grade Assist: • Provides additional grade

(engine) braking and extends lower gear operation on uphill climbs for hilly terrain or mountainous areas. • Provides additional engine

braking through the automatic transmission shift strategy which reacts to vehicle inputs (vehicle acceleration, accelerator pedal, brake pedal and vehicle speed). • Allows the transmission to select gears that will provide the desired engine braking based on the vehicle inputs mentioned above. This will increase engine RPM during engine braking.

• The grade assist lamp in the

instrument cluster is illuminated. Grade assist is designed to aid the driver with optimal gear selection in hilly terrain or mountainous areas but is not intended for normal operation. It is recommended that you return to O/D (overdrive mode) on flat terrain to provide the best fuel economy and transmission function. To return to normal D (Drive) position (with O/D), press the transmission control switch again. • The grade assist lamp in the instrument cluster will not be illuminated. • The transmission will operate in gears one through six.

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L (Low) • Provides maximum engine braking. • Will downshift to the lowest available gear for the current vehicle speed; allows for first gear when vehicle reaches slower speeds. • Is not intended for use under extended or normal driving conditions

and results in lower fuel economy.

Understanding the gearshift positions of the 6–speed with SelectShift Automatic™ transmission (SST) (if equipped) Your vehicle has been designed to improve fuel economy by reducing fuel usage while coasting or decelerating. When you take your foot off the accelerator pedal and the vehicle begins to slow down, the torque converter clutch locks up and aggressively shuts off fuel flow to the engine while decelerating. This fuel economy benefit may be perceived as a light to medium braking sensation when removing your foot from the accelerator pedal. P (Park) This position locks the transmission and prevents the front wheels from turning. To put your vehicle in gear: • Press the brake pedal • Move the gearshift lever into the

desired gear

To put your vehicle in P (Park): • Come to a complete stop • Move the gearshift lever and securely latch it in P (Park)

WARNING: Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Switch the ignition off and

remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.

R (Reverse) With the gearshift lever in R (Reverse), the vehicle will move backward. Always come to a complete stop before shifting into and out of R (Reverse). 268

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N (Neutral) With the gearshift lever in N (Neutral), the vehicle can be started and is free to roll. Hold the brake pedal down while in this position. D (Drive) The normal driving position for the best fuel economy. Transmission operates in gears one through six. M (Manual) SelectShift Automatic™ Transmission (SST) with Grade Assist Initially, moving the lever to M (Manual) activates grade assist and cancels overdrive. Grade assist: • Provides additional grade

(engine) braking for downhill driving and extends lower gear operation on uphill climbs for hilly terrain or mountainous areas. • Provides additional engine

braking through the automatic transmission shift strategy which reacts to vehicle inputs (vehicle acceleration, accelerator pedal, brake pedal and vehicle speed). This will increase engine RPM during engine braking. • The grade assist lamp in the

instrument cluster is illuminated. Grade assist is designed to aid the driver with optimal gear selection in hilly terrain or mountainous areas but is not intended for normal operation. It is recommended that you return to O/D (overdrive mode) on flat terrain to provide the best fuel economy and transmission function. To return to normal D (Drive) position (with O/D), do one of the following: • Move the shift lever back from M (Manual) to D (Drive). • Press the paddle shifters to exit grade assist and enable control of selecting the gear you desire using the paddle shifters on the steering wheel. This is called SelectShift Automatic™ Transmission (SST) mode.

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-The grade assist lamp in the instrument cluster will not be illuminated. -The transmission will operate in gears one through six. Understanding your SelectShift Automatic™ Transmission (SST) (if equipped) This vehicle may be equipped with a SelectShift Automatic™ transmission (SST) gearshift lever. SST is an automatic transmission with the ability for the driver to change gears up or down (without a clutch) as desired. By moving the gearshift lever from drive position D (Drive) to M (Manual) you now have control of selecting the gear you desire using the paddle shifters on the steering wheel.

Press the paddle shifters to exit grade assist and enable control of selecting the gear you desire using the paddle shifters on the steering wheel. • The grade assist lamp in the instrument cluster will not be illuminated. • The current transmission gear will be displayed in the cluster. Paddle shifters The paddle shifters allow you to shift gears quickly, without taking your hands off the steering wheel. 1. To manually downshift the transmission with the gearshift lever in M (Manual), press the paddle shifters forward. 2. To manually upshift the transmission with the gearshift lever in M (Manual), pull the paddle shifters rearward.

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Recommended shift speeds Upshift according to the following chart:

Upshifts when accelerating

(recommended for best fuel economy)

Shift from:

1 - 2
2 - 3
3 - 4
4 - 5
5 - 6

15 mph (24 km/h) 25 mph (40 km/h) 40 mph (64 km/h) 45 mph (72 km/h) 50 mph (80 km/h)

The message center display in the instrument cluster will show the current selected gear you are in. In order to prevent the engine from running at too low an RPM, which may cause it to stall, the SST will automatically make some downshifts even if it has determined that you have not downshifted in time. It will still allow you to downshift at any time as long as the SST determines that the engine will not be damaged from over-revving. Engine damage may occur if excessive engine revving is held without shifting.

REVERSE SENSING SYSTEM The reverse sensing system (RSS) sounds a tone to warn the driver of obstacles near the rear bumper when the R (Reverse) is selected and the vehicle is moving at speeds less than 3 mph (5 km/h). The system is not effective at speeds above 3 mph (5 km/h) and may not detect certain angular or moving objects.

WARNING: To help avoid personal injury, please read and understand the limitations of the reverse sensing system as contained in this section. Reverse sensing is only an aid for some (generally large and fixed) objects when moving in reverse on a flat surface at “parking speeds”. Inclement weather may also affect the function of the RSS; this may include reduced performance or a false activation.

WARNING: To help avoid personal injury, always use caution when in R (Reverse) and when using the RSS.

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WARNING: This system is not designed to prevent contact with small or moving objects. The system is designed to provide a warning to assist the driver in detecting large stationary objects to avoid damaging the vehicle. The system may not detect smaller objects, particularly those close to the ground.

WARNING: Certain add-on devices such as large trailer hitches, bike or surfboard racks and any device that may block the normal detection zone of the RSS system may create false beeps.

The RSS detects obstacles up to six feet (two meters) from the rear bumper with a decreased coverage area at the outer corners of the bumper, (refer to the figures for approximate zone coverage areas). As you move closer to the obstacle, the rate of the tone increases. When the obstacle is less than 10 inches (25.0 cm) away, the tone will sound continuously. If the RSS detects a stationary or receding object further than 10 inches (25.0 cm) from the side of the vehicle, the tone will sound for only three seconds. Once the system detects an object approaching, the tone will sound again.

While receiving a warning the radio volume will be reduced to a predetermined level. After the warning goes away, the radio will return to the previous value. The RSS automatically turns on when the gearshift lever is placed in R (Reverse) and the ignition is on. A control in the message center allows the driver to disable the system, refer to Message center in the Instrument Cluster chapter for more information. Note: If the system cannot be turned off, refer to MyKey威 in the Locks and Security chapter for more information. 272

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Keep the RSS sensors (located on the rear bumper/fascia) free from snow, ice and large accumulations of dirt (do not clean the sensors with sharp objects). If the sensors are covered, it will affect the accuracy of the RSS. If your vehicle sustains damage to the rear bumper/fascia, leaving it misaligned or bent, the sensing zone may be altered causing inaccurate measurement of obstacles or false alarms.

REARVIEW CAMERA SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED) The rearview camera system, located on the liftgate, provides a video image, which appears on the navigation system screen, of the area behind the vehicle. It adds assistance to the driver while reversing or reverse parking the vehicle.

To use the camera system, place the transmission in R (Reverse); an image will display on the navigation screen. The area displayed on the screen may vary according to the vehicle orientation and/or road condition.

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Driving • (1) Rear bumper • (2) Red zone • (3) Yellow zone • (4) Green zone • (5) Center line of vehicle Always use caution while backing. Objects in the red zone are closest to your vehicle and objects in the green zone are further away. Objects are getting closer to your vehicle as they move from the green zone to the yellow or red zones. Use the side mirrors and rearview mirror to get better coverage on both sides and rear of the vehicle. When shifting out of reverse and into any other gear, the image will remain on for a few seconds before it shuts off to assist in parking or trailer hookup. After shifting out of R (Reverse) and into any gear other than P (Park), the image will remain until the vehicle speed reaches 5 mph (8 km/h), only if the rear camera delay feature is on, or until any navigation radio button is pressed. Note: The default setting for the rear camera delay is off. Press the “Settings” button found on the navigation screen to set the rear camera delay feature to on or off. When towing, the camera system will only see what is being towed behind the vehicle; this might not provide adequate coverage as it usually provides in normal operation and some objects might not be seen. The camera lens for the camera is located on the liftgate. Keep the lens clean so the video image remains clear and undistorted. Clean the lens with a soft, lint-free cloth and non-abrasive cleaner. Note: If the camera system image is not clear or seems distorted, it may be covered with water droplets, snow, mud or any other substance. If this occurs, clean the camera lens before using the camera system.

WARNING: The camera system is a reverse aid supplement device that still requires the driver to use it in conjunction with

the rearview mirror and the side mirrors for maximum coverage.

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WARNING: Objects that are close to either corner of the bumper or under the bumper, might not be seen on the screen

due to the limited coverage of the camera system.

WARNING: Backup as slow as possible since higher speeds might limit your reaction time to stop the vehicle.

WARNING: Do not use the camera system with the liftgate open.

If the back end of the vehicle is hit or damaged, then check with your authorized dealer to have your rear video system checked for proper coverage and operation. Night time and dark area use At night time or in dark areas, the camera system relies on the reverse lamp lighting to produce an image. Therefore it is necessary that both reverse lamps are operating in order to get a clear image in the dark. If either of the lamps are not operating, stop using the camera system, at least in the dark, until the lamp(s) are replaced and functioning. Servicing • If the image comes on while the vehicle is not in R (Reverse), have • If the image is not clear, then check if there is anything covering the lens such as dirt, mud, ice, snow, etc. If the image is still not clear after cleaning, have your system inspected by your authorized dealer.

the system inspected by your authorized dealer.

ACTIVE PARK ASSIST (APA) (IF EQUIPPED) Active park assist (APA) will detect an available parallel parking space and automatically steer the vehicle into the space (hands-free) while you control the accelerator, gearshift and brakes. The system will visually and/or audibly instruct the driver to park the vehicle.

WARNING: This system is designed to be a supplementary park aid. It may not work in all conditions and is not intended to

replace the driver’s attention and judgment. The driver is responsible for avoiding hazards and maintaining a safe distance and speed, even when the APA is in use.

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Conditions in which the system may not work: • Something passes between the front bumper and the space such as a • The edge of the neighboring parked vehicle is high from the ground

pedestrian or cyclist

such as a bus, tow truck or flatbed truck

Automatic search for parking space To start, press the APA control switch (on the console in front of the gearshift). The message center will display ACTIVE PARK SEARCHING. To designate what side of the street to search on, use the turn signal. The arrow symbols >> and << in the message center indicate on which side of the vehicle APA will park. (If the turn signal is not on, the system will automatically search the passenger side.) For best performance, the driver should drive the vehicle as parallel as possible while passing a parking space. If driven too fast (above 18 mph [30 km/h]) for the system to measure parking spaces, the message center will display ACTIVE PARK REDUCE SPEED.

When the system has found a space, the message center will display SPACE FOUND PULL FORWARD followed by a chime. Drive forward until the message center displays SPACE FOUND STOP followed by a chime. When you stop the vehicle in position to begin parking, the message center displays REMOVE HANDS PUT IN REVERSE. The driver should always come to a complete stop before changing gears. 276

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Automatic steering into parking space Automatic steering is activated when you stop the vehicle, remove your hands from the steering wheel and select the R (Reverse) gear. Be sure the steering wheel motion is not obstructed by any objects. The vehicle will steer itself from this point on as you follow the instructions in the message center to safely move the vehicle reverse and forward in the space. You may cancel APA at any time by grabbing the steering wheel or by pressing the APA control switch. When the vehicle is in R (Reverse) the message center displays BACK UP USE CAUTION.

When you determine the vehicle is back far enough or you hear a solid tone from the reverse sensing system, bring the vehicle to a complete stop and move the gearshift to D (Drive). The message center will now display PULL FORWARD USE CAUTION followed by a chime.

When you determine the vehicle is far enough forward or a solid tone from the forward sensing system (if equipped) is heard, bring the vehicle to a complete stop and move the gearshift to R (Reverse). The message center may display BACK UP SLOWLY USE CAUTION followed by a chime. The system may offer subsequent backward and forward maneuvers before proceeding to the finish phase.

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APA finished When active park assist has completed the automated steering, the message center displays ACTIVE PARK FINISHED followed by a chime.

steering.

active park searching.

The driver is responsible to assess and correct as necessary the final parking position and put the vehicle in P (Park). The system can also be deactivated at any time by the following: • Pressing the APA control switch. • Grabbing the steering wheel. • Exceeding a vehicle speed of 18 mph (30 km/h) for 30 seconds during • Exceeding a vehicle speed of 6 mph (10 km/h) during automatic • Deactivating the AdvanceTrac威 system or the system has activated on a slippery or loose surface. • ABS activation or failure. • Any door (except the driver’s door) opens. • Something touching the steering wheel. If a fault is present in the system, the message ACTIVE PARK FAULT will be displayed followed by a chime. Contact an authorized dealer to have your vehicle serviced. The system should not be used if: • a foreign object (i.e. bike rack, trailer, etc.) is attached to the front or • the front bumper or side sensors are damaged (i.e. in a collision) or • a mini-spare tire is used. 278

rear of the vehicle or at another location close to the sensors.

obstructed by a foreign object (i.e. front bumper cover).

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Troubleshooting Why isn’t APA searching for a parking space? • You may have deactivated the AdvanceTrac威 system. • One of the doors (except the driver’s door) may not be securely

closed.

any material stuck to the sensors.

Why doesn’t APA offer a particular parking space? • Something may be contacting the front bumper or side sensors. Clear • There may not be enough room to maneuver the vehicle into the space. Remember, there needs to be enough space on the opposite side of the vehicle to allow the front of the vehicle to swing out as you back into the space. • The vehicle is not driven close enough to the parking space, less than • The vehicle is driven too close to the side objects (e.g. less than • You may be driving in R (Reverse). APA can only look for a parking

16 inches [41 cm] from neighboring parked vehicles).

60 inches (1.5 m) from neighboring parked vehicles.

space while moving forward.

Why doesn’t APA position the vehicle where I want in the space? • The driver allows the vehicle to roll in the opposite direction of the

transmission (such as rolling forward when R (Reverse) gear is selected.

• You may be driving in R (Reverse). APA can only look for a parking • There may be an irregular curb along the parking space. APA might

space while moving forward.

not be able to align the vehicle to curbs that are damaged, very shallow or covered with material such as debris, leaves, snow, or tarps.

• The vehicles or objects bordering the space may not be positioned • The vehicle was pulled further up from the parking space than usual

appropriately.

while driving by the space. APA performs best when you drive the same distance past the entire length of the parking space.

• The tires may not be installed and maintained correctly. For example,

one or more tires may not be inflated correctly, may not be of the same size, or may not be authorized for use on this vehicle. • The vehicle had a repair or alteration that is not authorized by the

manufacturer.

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Driving • One of the parked vehicles has a high altitude attachment (i.e. salt

sprayer, snow plow, moving truck high bed, etc.) High altitude attachments may not be detected by the system.

after the vehicle has passed the parking space.

• The parking space length or parked objects position have changed • The temperature around your vehicle changes quickly, such as driving from a heated garage into the cold, or after leaving a car wash. As a result, the outside air temperature displayed in the vehicle may not be close enough to the actual temperature. APA relies on correctly sensing the temperature outside for precisely positioning the vehicle.

ALL-WHEEL DRIVE (AWD) SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED) Your vehicle may be equipped with a full-time all-wheel drive (AWD) system. The AWD system is an active system, meaning it not only responds to wheel slip between the front and rear axles but also has the ability to anticipate wheel slip and transfer torque to the rear wheels before slip occurs. The AWD system is active all the time and requires no input from the operator. All components of the AWD system are sealed for life and require no maintenance. Note: When an AWD system fault is present, the warning CHECK AWD will display in the message center. The AWD system is not functioning correctly and defaulted to front-wheel drive. When this warning is displayed, have your vehicle serviced at an authorized dealer. If your vehicle is equipped with AWD, a spare tire of a different size other than the tire provided should never be used. If the spare tire is installed, the AWD system may disable automatically and enter front-wheel drive only mode to protect driveline components. This condition may be indicated by an AWD OFF message in the message center (see Message center section in the Instrument Cluster chapter for more information). If there is an AWD OFF message in the message center from using the spare tire, this indicator should turn off after reinstalling the repaired or replaced normal road tire and driving a short distance. It is recommended to reinstall the repaired or replaced road tire as soon as possible. Major dissimilar tire sizes between the front and rear axles could cause the AWD system to stop functioning and default to front-wheel drive or damage the AWD system. Note: The AWD OFF message may also be displayed in the message center if the AWD system has overheated and defaulted to front-wheel drive. This condition may occur if the vehicle was operated in extreme 280

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conditions with excessive wheel slip, such as deep sand. To resume normal AWD function as soon as possible, stop the vehicle in a safe location and allow it to idle. The AWD OFF message will turn off when the system cools and normal AWD function returns. Note: Your AWD vehicle is not intended for off-road use. The AWD feature gives your vehicle some limited off-road capabilities in which driving surfaces are relatively level, obstruction-free and otherwise similar to normal on-road driving conditions. Operating your vehicle under other than those conditions could subject the vehicle to excessive stress which might result in damage which is not covered under your warranty.

Driving on slippery surfaces with AWD vehicles AWD vehicles are specially equipped for driving on sand, snow, mud and rough roads and have operating characteristics that are somewhat different from conventional vehicles, both on and off the highway. When driving at slow speeds off-highway under high outside temperatures, use a low gear when possible. Lower gear operation will maximize the engine and transmission cooling capability. Under severe operating conditions, the A/C may cycle on and off to protect overheating of the engine. Basic operating principles • Drive slower in strong crosswinds which can affect the normal steering • Be extremely careful when driving on pavement made slippery by

characteristics of your vehicle.

loose sand, water, gravel, snow or ice.

If your vehicle goes off the edge of the pavement • If your vehicle goes off the edge of the pavement, slow down, but avoid severe brake application, ease the vehicle back onto the pavement only after reducing your speed. Do not turn the steering wheel too sharply while returning to the road surface.

• It may be safer to stay on the apron or shoulder of the road and slow down gradually before returning to the pavement. You may lose control if you do not slow down or if you turn the steering wheel too sharply or abruptly.

• It often may be less risky to strike small objects, such as highway

reflectors, with minor damage to your vehicle rather than attempt a sudden return to the pavement which could cause the vehicle to slide sideways out of control or rollover. Remember, your safety and the safety of others should be your primary concern.

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If your vehicle gets stuck

WARNING: Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Switch the ignition off and

remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.

WARNING: If the parking brake is fully released, but the brake warning lamp remains illuminated, the brakes may not be

working properly. See your authorized dealer.

WARNING: Do not spin the wheels at over 35 mph (56 km/h). The tires may fail and injure a passenger or bystander.

If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow it may be rocked out by shifting between forward and reverse gears, stopping between shifts, in a steady pattern. Press lightly on the accelerator in each gear. Your vehicle is equipped with traction control. It may be beneficial to disengage the traction control system while attempting to rock the vehicle. Note: Do not rock the vehicle if the engine is not at normal operating temperature or damage to the transmission may occur. Note: Do not rock the vehicle for more than a few minutes or damage to the transmission and tires may occur or the engine may overheat. Emergency maneuvers • In an unavoidable emergency situation where a sudden sharp turn must be made, remember to avoid “over-driving” your vehicle (i.e., turn the steering wheel only as rapidly and as far as required to avoid the emergency). Excessive steering will result in less vehicle control, not more. Additionally, smooth variations of the accelerator and/or brake pedal pressure should be utilized if changes in vehicle speed are called for. Avoid abrupt steering, acceleration or braking which could result in an increased risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover and/or personal injury. Use all available road surface to return the vehicle to a safe direction of travel.

• In the event of an emergency stop, avoid skidding the tires and do not

attempt any sharp steering wheel movements.

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• If the vehicle goes from one type of surface to another (i.e., from concrete to gravel) there will be a change in the way the vehicle responds to a maneuver (steering, acceleration or braking). Again, avoid these abrupt inputs. AWD systems (if equipped) AWD uses all four wheels to power the vehicle. This increases traction, enabling you to drive over terrain and road conditions that a conventional two-wheel drive vehicle cannot. Sand When driving over sand, try to keep all four wheels on the most solid area of the trail. Avoid reducing the tire pressures but shift to a lower gear and drive steadily through the terrain. Apply the accelerator slowly and avoid spinning the wheels. When driving at slow speeds in deep sand under high outside temperatures, use a low gear when possible. Lower gear operation will maximize the engine and transmission cooling capability. Under severe operating conditions, the A/C may cycle on and off to protect overheating of the engine. Avoid excessive speed because vehicle momentum can work against you and cause the vehicle to become stuck to the point that assistance may be required from another vehicle. Remember, you may be able to back out the way you came if you proceed with caution. Mud and water If you must drive through high water, drive slowly. Traction or brake capability may be limited. When driving through water, determine the depth; avoid water higher than the bottom of the wheel rims (if possible) and proceed slowly. If the ignition system gets wet, the vehicle may stall. Once through water, always try the brakes. Wet brakes do not stop the vehicle as effectively as dry brakes. Drying can be improved by moving your vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake pedal. Be cautious of sudden changes in vehicle speed or direction when you are driving in mud. Even AWD vehicles can lose traction in slick mud. As when you are driving over sand, apply the accelerator slowly and avoid spinning your wheels. If the vehicle does slide, steer in the direction of the slide until you regain control of the vehicle. If the engine, transmission, AWD system components or axles are submerged in water, their fluids should be checked and changed, if necessary.

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Note: Driving through deep water may damage the engine or transmission. If the front or rear axle is submerged in water, the axle lubricant and PTU (Power Transfer Unit) lubricant should be checked and changed if necessary. After driving through mud, clean off residue stuck to rotating driveshafts and tires. Excess mud stuck on tires and rotating driveshafts causes an imbalance that could damage drive components. “Tread Lightly” is an educational program designed to increase public awareness of land-use regulations and responsibilities in our nations wilderness areas. Ford Motor Company joins the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management in encouraging you to help preserve our national forest and other public and private lands by “treading lightly.” Driving on hilly or sloping terrain Although natural obstacles may make it necessary to travel diagonally up or down a hill or steep incline, you should always try to drive straight up or straight down. Note: Avoid driving crosswise or turning on steep slopes or hills. A danger lies in losing traction, slipping sideways and possibly rolling over. Whenever driving on a hill, determine beforehand the route you will use. Do not drive over the crest of a hill without seeing what conditions are on the other side. Do not drive in reverse over a hill without the aid of an observer. When climbing a steep slope or hill, start in a lower gear rather than downshifting to a lower gear from a higher gear once the ascent has started. This reduces strain on the engine and the possibility of stalling. If you do stall out, Do not try to turn around because you might roll over. It is better to back down to a safe location. Apply just enough power to the wheels to climb the hill. Too much power will cause the tires to slip, spin or lose traction, resulting in loss of vehicle control.

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Descend a hill in the same gear you would use to climb up the hill to avoid excessive brake application and brake overheating. Do not descend in neutral; instead, disengage overdrive or manually shift to a lower gear. When descending a steep hill, avoid sudden hard braking as you could lose control. The front wheels have to be turning in order to steer the vehicle. Your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, therefore apply the brakes steadily. Do not “pump” the brakes. Driving on snow and ice

WARNING: If you are driving in slippery conditions that require tire chains or cables, then it is critical that you drive cautiously.

Keep speeds down, allow for longer stopping distances and avoid aggressive steering to reduce the chances of a loss of vehicle control which can lead to serious injury or death. If the rear end of the vehicle slides while cornering, steer in the direction of the slide until you regain control of the vehicle.

Note: Excessive tire slippage can cause transmission damage. AWD vehicles have advantages over 2WD vehicles in snow and ice but can skid like any other vehicle. Should you start to slide while driving on snowy or icy roads, turn the steering wheel in the direction of the slide until you regain control. Avoid sudden applications of power and quick changes of direction on snow and ice. Apply the accelerator slowly and steadily when starting from a full stop. Avoid sudden braking as well. Although an AWD vehicle may accelerate better than a two-wheel drive vehicle in snow and ice, it won’t stop any faster, because as in other vehicles, braking occurs at all four wheels. Do not become overconfident as to road conditions. Make sure you allow sufficient distance between you and other vehicles for stopping. Drive slower than usual and consider using one of the lower gears. In emergency stopping situations, apply the brake steadily. Since your vehicle is equipped with a four wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS), 285

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do not “pump” the brakes. Refer to the Brakes section of this chapter for additional information on the operation of the anti-lock brake system. Maintenance and modifications The suspension and steering systems on your vehicle have been designed and tested to provide predictable performance whether loaded or empty and durable load carrying capability. For this reason, Ford Motor Company strongly recommends that you do not make modifications such as adding or removing parts (such as lift kits or stabilizer bars) or by using replacement parts not equivalent to the original factory equipment. Any modifications to a vehicle that raise the center of gravity can make it more likely the vehicle will rollover as a result of a loss of control. Ford Motor Company recommends that caution be used with any vehicle equipped with a high load or device (such as ladder or luggage racks). Failure to maintain your vehicle properly may void the warranty, increase your repair cost, reduce vehicle performance and operational capabilities and adversely affect driver and passenger safety. Frequent inspection of vehicle chassis components is recommended if the vehicle is subjected to heavy off-highway usage.

DRIVING THROUGH WATER If driving through deep or standing water is unavoidable, proceed very slowly. Never drive through water that is higher than the bottom of the wheel rims (for cars) or the bottom of the hubs (for trucks).

When driving through water, traction or brake capability may be limited. Also, water may enter your engine’s air intake and severely damage your engine or your vehicle may stall. Driving through deep water where the transmission vent tube is submerged may allow water into the transmission and cause internal transmission damage. Once through the water, always dry the brakes by moving your vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake pedal. Wet brakes do not stop the vehicle as quickly as dry brakes.

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ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE

Vehicles sold in the U.S. : Getting roadside assistance To fully assist you should you have a vehicle concern, Ford Motor Company offers a complimentary roadside assistance program. This