2015 Ford Taurus Owners Manual

serious injury or death. Note: The brakes may emit a sound when they are being modulated by the adaptive cruise control system. When a vehicle ahead of you enters the same lane or a slower vehicle is ahead in the same lane, the vehicle speed adjusts to maintain a preset gap distance. The distance setting is adjustable. The lead vehicle graphic will be illuminated. Your vehicle will maintain a constant distance between the vehicle ahead until: • the vehicle in front of you accelerates to a speed above the set speed • the vehicle in front of you moves out of your lane or out of view • the vehicle speed falls below 16 mph (26 km/h) • a new gap distance is set. The vehicle brakes will be automatically applied to slow your vehicle to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. The maximum braking which is applied by the system is limited and can be overridden by the driver applying the brakes.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Cruise Control

217

If the system predicts that its maximum braking level will not be sufficient, an audible warning will sound while the system continues to brake. This is accompanied by a heads-up display; a red warning bar illuminating on the windshield. You should take immediate action. To help you pass a vehicle in front of you, the adaptive control system may provide a small temporary acceleration when you switch on your left turn signal.

Setting the Gap Distance Note: It is your responsibility to select a gap appropriate to the driving conditions.

You can decrease or increase the distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you by pressing the GAP control up or down. The selected gap will display in the information display as shown by the bars in the graphic. Four gap distance settings are available.

Graphic

display (bars

between vehicles)

Following distance

Following distance at

60 mph

(100 km/h)

Dynamic behavior

1 bar 2 bars 3 bars 4 bars Each time you restart your vehicle, the system will select the last chosen gap for the current driver.

31 yards (28 m) Sporty 43 yards (39 m) Normal 55 yards (50 m) Normal 67 yards (61 m) Comfort

1 second 1.4 seconds 1.8 seconds 2.2 seconds

Disengaging Adaptive Cruise Control Press the brake pedal or press CNCL to disengage the system. Disengaging the system will not erase your previous set speed.

Overriding Adaptive Cruise Control

WARNING: Whenever the driver is overriding the ACC by pressing the accelerator pedal, the ACC will not automatically

apply the brakes to maintain separation from any vehicle ahead.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

218

Cruise Control

You can override the set speed and gap distance by pressing the accelerator pedal.

When you are overriding the system, the green indicator light illuminates and the follow vehicle does not show in the information display. The system will resume operation when

you release the accelerator pedal. The vehicle speed will decrease to the set speed, or a lower speed if following a slower vehicle.

release.

Changing the Set Speed There are three ways to change the set speed: • Accelerate or brake to the desired speed and press SET upward and • Increase or decrease the speed by holding SET upward or downward until the desired set speed is shown on the information display. The vehicle speed will gradually change to the selected speed. • Increase or decrease the speed in increments of 1 mph (2 km/h) by

briefly pressing SET upward or downward.

The system may apply the brakes to slow your vehicle down to the new set speed. The set speed will display continuously in the information display while the system is active.

Resuming the Set Speed Note: Resume should only be used if you are aware of the set speed and intend to return to it. Press and release RES. Your vehicle will return to the previously set speed. The set speed will display continuously in the information display while the system is active.

Low Speed Automatic Cancellation The system is not functional at vehicle speeds below 16 mph (26 km/h). An audible alarm sounds and the automatic braking released if your vehicle drops below this speed.

Hilly Condition Usage Note: An audible alarm sounds and the system shuts down if it is applying brakes for an extended period of time. This allows the brakes to cool down. The system will function normally again when the brakes have cooled down. You should select a lower gear position when the system is active in situations such as prolonged downhill driving on steep grades, for

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Cruise Control

219

example driving in mountainous areas. Your vehicle needs additional engine braking in these situations to reduce the load on the vehicle’s regular brake system to prevent them from overheating.

Switching Off Adaptive Cruise Control Note: The set speed memory will erase when you switch the system off. Press and release OFF or turn off the ignition.

Detection Issues The radar sensor has a limited field of vision. It may not detect vehicles at all or detect a vehicle later than expected in some situations. The lead vehicle graphic will not illuminate if the system does not detect a vehicle in front of you.

Detection issues can occur: A. When driving on a different line than the vehicle in front. B. With vehicles that edge into your lane. The system can only detect these vehicles once they move fully into your lane. C. There may be issues with the detection of vehicles in front when driving into and coming out of a bend or curve in the road.

In these cases the system may brake late or unexpectedly. You should stay alert and intervene when necessary. If the front end of your vehicle is hit or damaged, the radar sensing zone may be altered causing missed or false vehicle detections. See your authorized dealer to have the radar checked for proper coverage and operation.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

220

Cruise Control

Adaptive Cruise Control Not Available Several conditions exist which can cause the system to deactivate or prevent the system from activating when requested. These conditions include: • a blocked sensor • high brake temperature • a failure in the system or a related system. Blocked Sensor

WARNING: Do not use ACC when towing a trailer with brake controls. Aftermarket trailer brakes will not function properly

when ACC is activated because the brakes are electronically controlled. Failing to do so may result in loss of vehicle control, which could result in serious injury.

WARNING: Do not use tires sizes other than those recommended because this can affect the normal operation of

ACC. Failing to do so may result in a loss of vehicle control, which could result in serious injury.

A message regarding a blocked sensor is displayed if the radar signals from the sensor have been obstructed. The sensor is located behind a fascia cover near the driver side of the lower grille. A vehicle ahead cannot be detected and the system will not function when the

radar signals are obstructed. The following table lists possible causes and actions for this message being displayed.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Cruise Control

221

Cause The surface of the radar in the grille is dirty or obstructed in some way. The surface of the radar in the grille is clean but the message remains in the display.

Heavy rain or snow is interfering with the radar signals.

Action Clean the grille surface in front of the radar or remove the object causing the obstruction. Wait a short time. It may take several minutes for the radar to detect that it is no longer obstructed. Do not use the system in these conditions because it may not detect any vehicle ahead. Do not use system in these conditions because it may not detect any vehicle ahead. Wait a short time or switch to normal cruise control.

Swirling water, or snow or ice on the surface of the road may interfere with the radar signals. You are in a desert or remote area with no other vehicles and no roadside objects. Due to the nature of radar technology, it is possible to get a blockage warning and not be blocked. This can happen, for example, when driving in sparse rural or desert environments. A false blocked condition will either self-clear or clear after a key cycle.

Switching to Normal Cruise Control

WARNING: Normal cruise control will not brake due to slower vehicles. Always be aware of which mode is selected and apply

the brakes when necessary.

You can manually change from adaptive cruise control to normal cruise control through the information display.

The cruise control indicator light will replace the adaptive cruise control indicator light if normal cruise control is selected. The gap setting will not be displayed, the system will not

automatically respond to lead vehicles and automatic braking will not be activated. The system will default to adaptive cruise control when the engine is started.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

222

Driving Aids

DRIVER ALERT (IF EQUIPPED)

WARNING: The driver alert system is designed to aid you. It is not intended to replace your attention and judgment. You are still

responsible to drive with due care and attention.

Note: The system will store the on/off setting in the information display menu through ignition cycles. Note: If enabled in the menu, the system will be active above 40 mph (64 km/h). When below the activation speed the driver alert system display will inform you that the system is unavailable. Note: The system works as long as one lane marking can be detected by the camera. Note: If the camera is blocked or if the windshield is damaged, the system may not function. Note: The system may not be available in poor weather or other low visibility conditions. The system automatically monitors your driving behavior using various inputs including the front camera sensor. If the system detects that your driving alertness is reduced below a certain threshold, the system will alert you using a chime and a message in the cluster display

Switching the System On and Off You may switch the system on or off through the Information Display. Refer to the Information Displays chapter. The system on or off setting is stored and will use your last setting the next time the vehicle is started.

System Warnings Note: The system will not issue warnings below approximately 40 mph (64 km/h). The warning system is in two stages. At first the system issues a temporary warning that you need to take a rest. This message will only appear for a short time. If the system detects further reduction in driving alertness, another warning may be issued which will remain in the information display for a longer time. Press OK on the steering wheel control to clear the warning.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Driving Aids

223

System Display When active the system will run automatically in the background and only issue a warning if required. You can view the status at any time using the information display. Refer to the Information Displays chapter. The alertness level is shown by six steps in a colored bar.

The current assessment of your alertness is within a typical range.

The current assessment of your alertness indicates that you should rest as soon as safely possible.

The status bar will travel from left to right as the calculated alertness level decreases. As the rest icon is approached the color turns from green to yellow to red. The yellow position represents the first warning is active and the red position represents the second warning is active. Note: If you have recently received a warning; you should consider resting, even if the current assessment is with the typical range. Note: If the camera sensor cannot track the road lane markings or if your vehicle speed drops below approximately 40 mph (64 km/h), the alertness level will change to grey for a short time and the information display will inform you that the system is unavailable.

Resetting the System You can reset the system by either: • Switching the ignition off and on. • Stopping the vehicle and then opening and closing the driver’s door.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

224

Driving Aids

LANE KEEPING SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)

WARNING: The system is designed to aid the driver. It is not intended to replace the driver’s attention and judgment. The

driver is still responsible to drive with due care and attention.

The system detects unintentional drifting toward the outside of the lane and alerts and/or aids the driver to stay in the lane through the steering system and instrument cluster display. The system automatically detects and tracks the road lane markings using a camera that is mounted behind the interior rear view mirror. Note: The system works above 40 mph (64 km/h). Note: The system works as long as one lane marking can be detected by the camera. Note: If the camera is blocked or if the windshield is damaged, the system may not function. Note: When Aid mode is on and the system detects no driver steering activity for a short period after system activation, the system alerts the driver to keep their hands on the steering wheel. The system may detect a light touch or grip on the steering wheel as hands-off driving.

Switching the System On and Off

Press the button located on the center console to switch the system on or off.

Note: The system on/off setting is stored until it is manual changed, unless a MyKey® is detected. If a MyKey® is detected, the system is defaulted to on and the mode is set to Alert. Note: If a MyKey® is detected, pressing the button will not affect the on/off status of the system. Only the Mode and Intensity settings can be changed when a MyKey® is present.

System Settings The system has one standard feature setting and one optional setting menu available. To view or adjust the settings, refer to the Information Displays chapter. The last-known selection for each of these settings is stored by the system. You do not need to readjust your settings each time you turn on the system.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Driving Aids

225

Mode: This setting allows you to enable one of the system features. Alert only – Provides a steering wheel vibration when the system detects an unintended lane departure.

Aid only – Provides an assistance steering torque input toward the lane center when the system detects an unintended lane departure.

Alert + Aid – Provides an assistance steering torque input toward the lane center. If your vehicle continues drifting out of the lane, the system provides a steering wheel vibration. A. Alert B. Aid

Note: The alert and aid diagrams are meant to illustrate general zone coverage. They are not intended to provide the exact zone parameters. Intensity: This setting affects the intensity of the steering wheel vibration used for the alert mode. This setting does not impact the aid mode. • Low • Medium • High

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

226

System Display

Driving Aids

When you switch the system on, an overhead graphic of a vehicle with lane markings will be displayed in the left instrument cluster display. If the aid mode is selected after you switch the system on, arrows will be displayed with the lane markings.

When you switch the system off, the lane marking graphics will no longer be displayed. Note: The overhead vehicle graphic may still be displayed if adaptive cruise control is enabled. While the system is on, the color of the lane markings will change to indicate the system status. Gray: Indicates that the system is temporarily unable to provide a warning or intervention on the indicated side(s). This may be because: • the vehicle is under the activation speed • the turn indicator is active • the vehicle is in a dynamic maneuver • the road has no or poor lane markings in the camera field-of-view • the camera is obscured or unable to detect the lane markings due to environmental conditions (e.g. significant sun angles or shadows, snow, heavy rain, fog), traffic conditions (e.g. following a large vehicle that is blocking or shadowing the lane), or vehicle conditions (e.g. poor headlamp illumination).

See Troubleshooting for additional information. Green: Indicates that the system is available or ready to provide a warning or intervention, on the indicated side(s). Yellow: Indicates that the system is providing or has just provided a lane keeping aid intervention. Red: Indicates that the system is providing or has just provided a lane keeping alert warning. The system can be temporarily disabled at any time by the following: • Quick braking • Fast acceleration • Using the turn signal indicator • Evasive steering maneuver

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Driving Aids

227

Troubleshooting Why is the feature not available (line markings are gray) when I

can see the lane markings on the road?

Vehicle speed is outside the operational range of the feature Sun is shining directly into the camera lens Quick intentional lane change Staying too close to the lane marking Driving at high speeds in curves Previous feature activation happened within the last one second Ambiguous lane markings (mainly in construction zones) Rapid transition from light to dark or vice versa Sudden offset in lane markings ABS or AdvanceTrac activation Camera blockage due to dirt, grime, fog, frost or water on the windshield Driving too close to the vehicle in front of you Transitioning between no lane markings to lane markings or vice versa Standing water on the road Faint lane markings (partial yellow lane markings on concrete roads) Lane width too narrow or too wide Camera not calibrated after a windshield replacement When driving on tight roads or on uneven roads

Why does the vehicle not come back into the middle of the lane

always, as expected, in the Aid or Aid + Alert mode?

High cross winds Large road crown Rough roads, grooves, shoulder drop-offs Heavy uneven loading of the vehicle or improper tire inflation pressure If the tires have been exchanged (including snow tires), or the suspension has been modified

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

228

Driving Aids

BLIND SPOT INFORMATION SYSTEM (BLIS®) WITH CROSS TRAFFIC ALERT (CTA) (IF EQUIPPED)

WARNING: To help avoid injuries, NEVER use the BLIS® as a replacement for using the interior and exterior mirrors and looking over your shoulder before changing lanes. BLIS® is not a replacement for careful driving.

BLIS® aids the driver in detecting vehicles that may have entered the blind spot zone (A). The detection area is on both sides of the vehicle, extending rearward from the exterior mirrors to approximately 10 feet (3 meters) beyond the bumper. The system alerts you if certain vehicles enter the blind spot zone while driving.

CTA warns the driver of vehicles approaching from the sides when the transmission is in R (Reverse). Note: BLIS® is not designed to prevent contact with other vehicles or objects; or to detect parked vehicles, people, animals or infrastructure (fences, guardrails, trees, etc.). It is designed to alert the driver to vehicles in the blind zones. Note: When a vehicle passes quickly through the blind zone (typically fewer than two seconds), the system does not trigger.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Driving Aids

229

Using the Systems BLIS® turns on when the engine is started and the vehicle is driven forward above 3 mph (5 km/h); it remains on while the transmission is in D (Drive) or N (Neutral). If shifted out of D (Drive) or N (Neutral), the system enters CTA mode. Once shifted back into D (Drive), BLIS® turns back on when the vehicle is driven above 3 mph (5 km/h). Note: BLIS® does not function in R (Reverse) or P (Park) or provide any additional warning when a turn signal is on. CTA detects approaching vehicles from up to 45 feet (14 meters) away though coverage decreases when the sensors are blocked. Reversing slowly helps increase the coverage area and effectiveness.

WARNING: To help avoid personal injury, NEVER use the CTA system as a replacement for using the interior and exterior

mirrors and looking over your shoulder before backing out of a parking space. CTA is not a replacement for careful driving.

In this first example, the left sensor is only partially obstructed; zone coverage is nearly maximized.

Zone coverage also decreases when parking at shallow angles. Here, the left sensor is mostly obstructed; zone coverage on that side is severely limited.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

230

Driving Aids

System Lights and Messages

The BLIS® and CTA systems illuminate a yellow alert indicator in the outside mirror on the side of the vehicle the approaching vehicle is coming from.

Note: The alert indicator dims when nighttime darkness is detected. CTA also sounds an audible alarm and a message appears in the information display indicating a vehicle is coming from the right or left. CTA works with the reverse sensing system which sounds its own audible alarm; see the Parking Aids chapter.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Driving Aids

231

System Sensors

WARNING: Just prior to the system recognizing a blocked condition and alerting the driver, the number of missed objects

will increase. To help avoid injuries, NEVER use the BLIS® as a replacement for using the side and rear view mirrors and looking over your shoulder before changing lanes. BLIS® is not a replacement for careful driving.

Note: It is possible to get a blockage warning with no blockage present; this is rare and known as a false blockage warning. A false blocked condition either self-corrects or clears after a key cycle.

The system uses radar sensors which are located behind the bumper fascia on each side of the vehicle. Do not allow these areas to become obstructed by mud, snow or bumper stickers, as this can cause degraded system performance.

If the system detects a degraded performance condition, a blocked sensor warning or low visibility warning will appear in the information display and the alert indicator illuminates in the appropriate mirror(s). The information display warning can be cleared but the alert indicator remains illuminated. When the blockage is removed, the system can be reset in two ways: 1) when at least two objects are detected while driving, or 2) turn the ignition key from on to off, then back on. If the blockage is still present after the key cycle, the system senses again that it is blocked after driving in traffic.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

232

Driving Aids

Reasons for messages being displayed

The radar surface is dirty or obstructed The radar surface is not dirty or obstructed

Heavy rainfall/snowfall interferes with the radar signals

Clean the fascia area in front of the radar or remove the obstruction. Drive normally in traffic for a few minutes to allow the radar to detect passing vehicles so it can clear the blocked state. No action required. The system automatically resets to an unblocked state once the rainfall/snowfall rate decreases or stops. Do not use BLIS® and/or CTA in these conditions.

System Limitations The BLIS® and CTA systems do have their limitations; situations such as severe weather conditions or debris build-up on the sensor area may limit vehicle detection. The following are other situations that may limit the BLIS®: • Certain maneuvering of vehicles entering and exiting the blind zone. • Vehicles passing through the blind zone at very fast rates. • When several vehicles forming a convoy pass through the blind zone. The following are other situations that may limit the CTA system: • Adjacently parked vehicles or objects obstructing the sensors. • Approaching vehicles passing at speeds greater than 15 mph • Driving in reverse faster than 3 mph (5 km/h). • Backing out of an angled parking spot. False Alerts Note: If you connected a trailer to your vehicle the BLIS® system may detect the trailer causing a false alert. To avoid false alerts you may want to turn the BLIS off manually. There may be certain instances when either the BLIS® or CTA systems illuminate the alert indicator with no vehicle in the coverage zone; this is known as a false alert. Some amount of false alerts are normal; they are temporary and self-correct.

(24 km/h).

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Driving Aids

233

System Errors If either system senses a problem with the left or right sensor, the BLIS® indicator in the information display will illuminate and remain on. Also, BLIND SPOT SYSTEM FAULT or CROSS TRAFFIC SYSTEM FAULT message will appear. When problems that may cause the left or right indicator not to illuminate, only the information display message faults appear.

Switching the Systems Off and On One or both systems can be switched off temporarily by using the information display control; refer to the Information Display chapter. When you switch off the Blind Spot Information System, you will not receive alerts and the information display will display a system off message. The yellow alert indicator in the outside mirror will also flash twice. The system switches back on whenever you switch the ignition on. You can also have one or both systems switched off permanently at an authorized dealer. Once switched off, the system can only be switched back on at an authorized dealer.

COLLISION WARNING SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)

WARNING: This system is designed to be a supplementary driving aid. It is not intended to replace the driver’s attention,

and judgment, or the need to apply the brakes. This system does NOT activate the brakes automatically. Failure to press the brake pedal to activate the brakes may result in a collision.

WARNING: The collision warning system with brake support cannot help prevent all collisions. Do not rely on this system to replace driver judgment and the need to maintain distance and speed.

Note: The system does not detect, warn or respond to potential collisions with vehicles to the rear or sides of the vehicle. Note: The collision warning system is active at speeds above approximately 5 mph (8 km/h).

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

234

Driving Aids

This system is designed to alert the driver of certain collision risks. A radar detects if your vehicle is rapidly approaching another vehicle traveling in the same direction as yours. If it is, a red warning light illuminates and an audible warning chime sounds.

The brake support system assists the driver in reducing the collision speed by charging the brakes. If the risk of collision further increases after the warning light illuminates, the brake support prepares the brake system for rapid braking. This may be apparent to the driver. The system does not automatically activate the brakes but, if the brake pedal is pressed, full force braking is applied even if the brake pedal is lightly pressed.

Using the Collision Warning System

WARNING: The collision warning system’s brake support can only help reduce the speed at which a collision occurs if the

driver applies the vehicle’s brakes. The brake pedal must be pressed just like any typical braking situation.

The warning system sensitivity can be adjusted to one of three possible settings by using the information display control. Refer to the Information Displays chapter. Note: If collision warnings are perceived as being too frequent or disturbing then the warning sensitivity can be reduced, though the manufacturer recommends using the highest sensitivity setting where possible. Setting lower sensitivity would lead to fewer and later system warnings. Refer to the Information Displays chapter for instructions on reducing the sensitivity.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Driving Aids

235

Blocked Sensors

be detected and the collision warning system does not function. The following table lists possible causes and actions for this message being displayed. Cause The surface of the radar in the grille is dirty or obstructed in some way The surface of the radar in the grille is clean but the message remains in the display

If a message regarding a blocked sensor appears in the information display, the radar signals from the sensor have been obstructed. The sensors are located behind a fascia cover near the driver side of the lower grille. When the sensors are obstructed, a vehicle ahead cannot

Action Clean the grille surface in front of the radar or remove the object causing the obstruction Wait a short time. It may take several minutes for the radar to detect that it is no longer obstructed The collision warning system is temporarily disabled. Collision warning should automatically reactivate a short time after the weather conditions improve. The collision warning system is temporarily disabled. Collision warning should automatically reactivate a short time after the weather conditions improve.

Heavy rain, spray, snow, or fog is interfering with the radar signals

Swirling water, or snow or ice on the surface of the road may interfere with the radar signals

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

236

Driving Aids

System Limitations

WARNING: The collision warning system’s brake support can only help reduce the speed at which a collision occurs if the

driver applies the vehicle’s brakes. The brake pedal must be pressed just like any typical braking situation.

Due to the nature of radar technology, there may be certain instances where vehicles do not provide a collision warning. These include: • Stationary vehicles or vehicles moving below 6 mph (10 km/h). • Pedestrians or objects in the roadway. • Oncoming vehicles in the same lane. • Severe weather conditions (see blocked sensor section). • Debris build-up on the grille near the headlamps (see blocked sensor • Small distance to vehicle ahead. • Steering wheel and pedal movements are large (very active driving • High interior temperatures, which may deactivate the illumination or

section).

style).

the warning lamps until the interior temperature reduces (audible warning still sounds).

Certain conditions may reduce the visibility of the warning lamp; therefore, it is recommended to keep the audible warning on. If the front end of the vehicle is hit or damaged, the radar sensing zone may be altered causing missed or false collision warnings. See your authorized dealer to have your collision warning radar checked for proper coverage and operation.

STEERING

Electric Power Steering

WARNING: The electric power steering system has diagnostic checks that continuously monitor the system to ensure proper

operation. When a system error is detected a steering message will appear in the information display.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Driving Aids

237

WARNING: The electric power steering system has diagnostic checks that continuously monitor the system to ensure proper

operation of the electronic system. When an electronic error is detected, a message will be displayed in the information display. 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 information display for a steering message. If a steering message returns, or returns while driving, take the vehicle to your dealer to have it checked.

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.

Your vehicle is equipped with an electric power-assisted steering 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. When a steering system error is detected, steering messages may appear in the information display. Steering Tips If the steering wanders or pulls, check for: • an improperly inflated tire • 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.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

238

Load Carrying

CARGO NET (IF EQUIPPED)

WARNING: The cargo net is not designed to restrain objects during a collision or heavy braking.

The cargo net secures lightweight objects in the cargo area. Attach the net to the anchors provided. Do not put more than 50 pounds (22 kilograms) in the net.

LOAD LIMIT

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.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Load Carrying

239

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.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

240

Example only:

Load Carrying

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.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Load Carrying

241

GAW (Gross Axle Weight) – is the total weight placed on each axle (front and rear) – including vehicle curb weight and all payload. 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. The label shall be affixed to either the door hinge pillar, door-latch post, or the door edge that meets the door-latch post, next to the driver’s seating position. 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. The label shall be affixed to either the door hinge pillar, door-latch post, or the door edge that meets the door-latch post, next to the driver’s seating position. The GVW must never exceed the GVWR.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

242
• Example only:

Load Carrying

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Load Carrying

243

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.

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.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

244

Load Carrying

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

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.). 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: • Suppose your vehicle has a 1400 lb. (635 kg) 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.

• Suppose your vehicle has a 1400 lb. (635 kg) 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

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Load Carrying

245

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 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. The label shall be affixed to either the door hinge pillar, door-latch post, or the door edge that meets the door-latch post, next to the driver’s seating position.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

246

Towing

TOWING A TRAILER

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

WARNING: Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended gross trailer weight exceeds the limit of your vehicle and could result in engine damage, transmission damage, structural damage, loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover and personal injury.

Note: For information on electrical items such as fuses or relays, see the Fuses chapter. The load capacity of your vehicle is designated by weight not volume. You may not necessarily be able to use all available space when loading your vehicle or trailer. Towing a trailer places extra load on the engine, transmission, axle, brakes, tires, and suspension. Inspect these components before, during and after towing.

trailer tires.

Load Placement To help minimize how trailer movement affects your vehicle when driving: • Load the heaviest items closest to the trailer floor. • Load the heaviest items centered between the left and right side • Load the heaviest items above the trailer axles or just slightly forward toward the trailer tongue. Do not allow the final trailer tongue weight to go above or below 10–15% of the loaded trailer weight. • Select a tow bar with the correct rise or drop. When both the loaded vehicle and trailer are connected, the trailer frame should be level, or slightly angled down toward your vehicle, when viewed from the side.

When driving with a trailer or payload, a slight takeoff vibration or shudder may be present due to the increased payload weight. You can find more information about proper trailer loading and setting your vehicle up for towing under Load limit in the Load Carrying chapter. You can also find information in the RV and Trailer Towing Guide available at your authorized dealer.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Towing

247

RECOMMENDED TOWING WEIGHTS Note: Do not exceed the trailer weight for your vehicle configuration listed in the chart below. Note: Make sure to take into consideration trailer frontal area. Do not exceed 12 feet2 (1.11 meters2) trailer frontal area. Note: For high altitude operation, reduce the gross combined weight by 2% per 1000 feet (300 meters) starting at the 1000 foot (300 meter) elevation point. Note: Certain states require electric trailer brakes for trailers over a specified weight. Be sure to check state regulations for this specified weight. The maximum trailer weights listed may be limited to this specified weight, as your vehicle’s electrical system may not include the wiring connector needed to use electric trailer brakes. Your vehicle may tow a trailer provided the maximum trailer weight is less than or equal to the maximum trailer weight listed for your vehicle configuration on the following chart.

Powertrain

Maximum trailer weight

3.5L TiVCT front-wheel drive 3.5L TiVCT all-wheel drive 2.0L GTDI front-wheel drive 3.5L GTDI all-wheel drive

1000 lb (454 kg) 1000 lb (454 kg) 1000 lb (454 kg)

No trailer towing permitted

(1600 kilometers).

ESSENTIAL TOWING CHECKS Follow these guidelines for safe towing: • Do not tow a trailer until you drive your vehicle at least 1000 miles • Consult your local motor vehicle laws for towing a trailer. • See the instructions included with towing accessories for the proper • Service your vehicle more frequently if you tow a trailer. See your • If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions the rental agency

installation and adjustment specifications.

scheduled maintenance information.

gives you.

For load specification terms found on the tire label and Safety Compliance label and for instructions on calculating your vehicle’s load, refer to Load limit in the Load Carrying chapter. Remember to account for the trailer tongue weight as part of your vehicle load when calculating the total vehicle weight.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

248

Towing

Hitches Do not use a hitch that either clamps onto the bumper or attaches to the axle. Distribute the trailer load so 10-15% of the total trailer weight is on the tongue. Safety Chains Note: Never attach safety chains to the bumper. Always connect the safety chains to the hook retainers of your vehicle hitch. To connect the safety chains, cross them under the trailer tongue and allow enough slack for turning tight corners. Do not allow the chains to drag on the ground. Trailer Brakes

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.

Electric brakes and manual, automatic or surge-type trailer brakes are safe if you install them properly and adjust them to the manufacturer’s specifications. The trailer brakes must meet local and federal regulations. The rating for the tow vehicle’s braking system operation is at the gross vehicle weight rating, not the gross combined weight rating. Trailer Lamps

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

Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure all running lights, brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights are working. Before Towing a Trailer Practice turning, stopping and backing up to get the feel of your vehicle-trailer combination before starting on a trip. When turning, make wider turns so the trailer wheels clear curbs and other obstacles.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Towing

249

(800 kilometers).

thoroughly after you have traveled 50 miles (80 kilometers).

When Towing a Trailer • Do not drive faster than 70 mph (113 km/h) during the first 500 miles • Do not make full-throttle starts. • Check your hitch, electrical connections and trailer wheel lug nuts • When stopped in congested or heavy traffic during hot weather, place the gearshift in position P to aid engine and transmission cooling and to help air conditioning performance. • Turn off the speed control with heavy loads or in hilly terrain. The speed control may turn off automatically when you are towing on long, steep grades. • Shift to a lower gear when driving down a long or steep hill. Do not apply the brakes continuously, as they may overheat and become less effective. • If your transmission is equipped with a Grade Assist or Tow/Haul

feature, use this feature when towing. This provides engine braking and helps eliminate excessive transmission shifting for optimum fuel economy and transmission cooling. • Allow more distance for stopping with a trailer attached. Anticipate • Avoid parking on a grade. However, if you must park on a grade: 1. Turn the steering wheel to point your vehicle tires away from

stops and brake gradually.

traffic flow.

2. Set your vehicle parking brake. 3. Place the automatic transmission in position P. 4. Place wheel chocks in front and back of the trailer wheels.

(Chocks not included with vehicle.)

Launching or Retrieving a Boat or Personal Watercraft (PWC) Note: Disconnect the wiring to the trailer before backing the trailer into the water. Note: Reconnect the wiring to the trailer after removing the trailer from the water. When backing down a ramp during boat launching or retrieval: • Do not allow the static water level to rise above the bottom edge of • Do not allow waves to break higher than 6 inches (15 centimeters)

the rear bumper.

above the bottom edge of the rear bumper. Exceeding these limits may allow water to enter vehicle components: • Causing internal damage to the components. • Affecting driveability, emissions, and reliability.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

250

Towing

Replace the rear axle lubricant anytime the rear axle submerges in water. Water may have contaminated the rear axle lubricant, which does not normally require checking or changing unless it is leaking or other axle repair is required.

TRANSPORTING THE VEHICLE

If you need to have your vehicle towed, contact a professional towing service or, if you are a member of a roadside assistance program, your roadside assistance service provider. We recommend the use of a wheel lift and dollies or flatbed equipment to tow your vehicle. Do not tow with a slingbelt. Ford Motor Company has not approved a slingbelt towing procedure. Vehicle damage may occur if towed incorrectly, or by any other means. Ford Motor Company produces a towing manual for all authorized tow truck operators. Have your tow truck operator refer to this manual for proper hook-up and towing procedures for your vehicle. It is acceptable to have your front-wheel drive vehicle towed from the front if using proper wheel lift equipment to raise the front wheels off the ground. When towing in this manner, the rear wheels can remain on the ground.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Towing

251

Front-wheel drive vehicles must have the front wheels placed on a tow dolly when towing your vehicle from the rear using wheel lift equipment. This prevents damage to the transmission. Towing an all-wheel drive vehicle requires that all wheels be off the ground, such as using a wheel lift and dollies or flatbed equipment. This prevents damage to the transmission, all-wheel drive system and vehicle.

TOWING THE VEHICLE ON FOUR WHEELS

Emergency Towing If your vehicle becomes inoperable (without access to wheel dollies, car-hauling trailer, or flatbed transport vehicle), it can be flat-towed (all wheels on the ground, regardless of the powertrain and transmission configuration) under the following conditions: • Your vehicle is facing forward for towing in a forward direction. • Place the transmission in position N. See Automatic transmission in the Transmission chapter if you cannot move the transmission into N. • Maximum speed is 35 mph (56 km/h). • Maximum distance is 50 miles (80 kilometers). Recreational Towing Vehicles Equipped with a 2.0L Engine Note: Put your climate control system in recirculated air mode to prevent exhaust fumes from entering your vehicle. See the Climate Control chapter. Follow these guidelines if you have a need for recreational towing, such as towing your vehicle behind a motorhome. We designed these guidelines to prevent damage to your transmission. Front-wheel drive vehicles CANNOT be flat-towed (all wheels on the ground) as vehicle or transmission damage may occur. You must place the front wheels on a two-wheel tow dolly. If you are using a tow dolly, follow the instructions specified by the equipment provider.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

252

Towing

Vehicles Equipped with a 3.5L Engine Note: Put your climate control system in recirculated air mode to prevent exhaust fumes from entering your vehicle. See the Climate Control chapter. Follow these guidelines if you have a need for recreational towing, such as towing your vehicle behind a motorhome or truck. We designed these guidelines to prevent damage to your vehicle after it is hooked-up to the recreational vehicle or tow dolly. You can tow your front-wheel drive vehicle 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, see the following instructions. You can tow your all-wheel drive vehicle with all four wheels on the ground or with all four wheels off the ground using a vehicle transport trailer. Do not tow your all-wheel drive vehicle with the front wheels off the ground (by using a tow dolly) and the rear wheels on the ground. This causes damage to your all-wheel drive system. If you are using a vehicle transport trailer, follow the instructions specified by the equipment provider. If you are towing with all four wheels on the ground, see the following instructions. If you tow your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground: • Tow only in the forward direction. • Release the parking brake. • Place the transmission in position N. • Do not exceed 65 mph (105 km/h). • Start the engine and allow it to run for five minutes at the beginning of each day and every six hours thereafter. With the engine running and your foot on the brake, shift into position D and then into position R before shifting back into position N.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Driving Hints

253

BREAKING-IN You need to break in new tires for approximately 300 miles (480 kilometers). During this time, your vehicle may exhibit some unique driving characteristics. Avoid driving too fast during the first 1000 miles (1600 kilometers). Vary your speed frequently and change up through the gears early. Do not labor the engine. Do not tow during the first 1000 miles (1600 kilometers).

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

ECONOMICAL DRIVING Fuel economy is affected by several things, such as how you drive, the conditions you drive under and how you maintain your vehicle. There are some things to keep in mind that may improve your fuel economy: • Accelerate and slow down in a smooth, moderate fashion. • Drive at steady speeds without stopping. • Anticipate stops; slowing down may eliminate the need to stop. • Combine errands and minimize stop-and-go driving. • Close the windows for high-speed driving. • Drive at reasonable speeds (traveling at 55 mph [88 km/h] uses 15% • Keep the tires properly inflated and use only the recommended size. • Use the recommended engine oil. • Perform all regularly scheduled maintenance. There are also some things you may not want to do because they may reduce your fuel economy: • Sudden or hard accelerations. • Rev the engine before turning it off. • Idle for periods longer than one minute. • Warm up your vehicle on cold mornings. • Use the air conditioner or front defroster. • Use the speed control in hilly terrain. • Rest your foot on the brake pedal while driving.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Driving Hints

every 400 pounds [180 kilograms] of weight carried).

254
• Drive a heavily loaded vehicle or tow a trailer. • Carry unnecessary weight (approximately 1 mpg [0.4 km/L] is lost for • Add particular accessories to your vehicle (e.g.; bug deflectors, • Drive with the wheels out of alignment. DRIVING THROUGH WATER

rollbars or light bars, running boards, ski racks).

WARNING: Drive through water in an emergency only, and not as part of normal driving.

WARNING: Engine damage can occur if water enters the air filter.

Note: Driving through deep water may allow water into the transmission or air intake and can cause internal vehicle damage or cause it to stall. Note: Once through the water, always dry the brakes by moving your vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake pedal. 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. Wet brakes do not stop the vehicle as quickly as dry brakes.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Driving Hints

255

FLOOR MATS

WARNING: Always use floor mats that are designed to fit the foot well of your vehicle. Only use floor mats that leave the pedal

area unobstructed. Only use floor mats that are firmly secured to retention posts so that they cannot slip out of position and interfere with the pedals or impair safe operation of your vehicle in other ways.

WARNING: Pedals that cannot move freely can cause loss of vehicle control and increase the risk of serious personal injury.

WARNING: Always make sure that the floor mats are properly attached to the retention posts in the carpet that are supplied

with your vehicle. Floor mats must be properly secured to both retention posts to make sure mats do not shift out of position.

WARNING: Never place floor mats or any other covering in the vehicle foot well that cannot be properly secured to prevent them from moving and interfering with the pedals or the ability to control the vehicle.

WARNING: Never place floor mats or any other covering on top of already installed floor mats. Floor mats should always rest on

top of vehicle carpeting surface and not another floor mat or other covering. Additional floor mats or any other covering will reduce the pedal clearance and potentially interfere with pedal operation.

WARNING: Check attachment of floor mats on a regular basis. Always properly reinstall and secure floor mats that have been

removed for cleaning or replacement.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

256

Driving Hints

WARNING: Always make sure that objects cannot fall into the driver foot well while the vehicle is moving. Objects that are

loose can become trapped under the pedals causing a loss of vehicle control.

WARNING: Failure to properly follow floor mat installation or attachment instructions can potentially cause interference with

pedal operation causing a loss of vehicle control.

To install the floor mats, position the floor mat eyelet over the retention post and press down to lock in position. To remove the floor mat, reverse the installation procedure.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Roadside Emergencies

257

ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE

Vehicles Sold in the United States: Getting Roadside Assistance To fully assist you should you have a vehicle concern, Ford Motor Company offers a complimentary Roadside Assistance program. This program is separate from the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. The service is available: • 24 hours a day, seven days a week. • For the coverage period listed on the Roadside Assistance Card

included in your Owner’s Manual portfolio.

responsibility).

(except vehicles supplied with a tire inflation kit).

Roadside assistance covers: • A flat tire change with a good spare, if provided with the vehicle • Battery jump start. • Lock-out assistance (key replacement cost is the customer’s • Fuel delivery – Independent Service Contractors, if not prohibited by state, local or municipal law, shall deliver up to 2.0 gallons (7.6 liters) of gasoline or 5.0 gallons (18.9 liters) of diesel fuel to a disabled vehicle. Roadside Assistance limits fuel delivery service to two no-charge occurrences within a 12-month period.

county maintained road, no recoveries.

• Winch out – available within 100 feet (30.5 meters) of a paved or • Towing – Independent service contractors, if not prohibited by state, local or municipal law, shall tow Ford eligible vehicles to an authorized dealer within 35 miles (56 kilometers) of the disablement location or to the nearest authorized dealer. If a member requests a tow to an authorized dealer that is more than 35 miles (56 kilometers) from the disablement location, the member shall be responsible for any mileage costs in excess of 35 miles (56 kilometers).

Roadside Assistance includes up to $200 for a towed trailer if the disabled eligible vehicle requires service at the nearest authorized dealer. If the towing vehicle is operational but the trailer is not, then the trailer does not qualify for any roadside services.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

258

Roadside Emergencies

Vehicles Sold in the United States: Using Roadside Assistance Complete the roadside assistance identification card and place it in your wallet for quick reference. This card is found in the owner’s manual portfolio in the glove compartment. U.S. Ford vehicle customers who require Roadside Assistance, call 1-800-241-3673. If you need to arrange roadside assistance for yourself, Ford Motor Company will reimburse a reasonable amount for towing to the nearest dealership within 35 miles (56.3 kilometers). To obtain reimbursement information, U.S. Ford vehicle customers call 1-800-241-3673. Customers will be asked to submit their original receipts.

Vehicles Sold in Canada: Getting Roadside Assistance Canadian clients who require roadside assistance, call 1-800-665-2006.

Vehicles Sold in Canada: Using Roadside Assistance For your convenience, you may complete the roadside assistance identification card found in the centerfold of this warranty guide and retain for future reference. Canadian roadside coverage and benefits may differ from the U.S. coverage. If you require more information, please refer to the coverage section of your warranty guide, call us in Canada at 1-800-665-2006 or visit our website at www.ford.ca. Sykes Assistance Services Corporation administers the Roadside Assistance program. You must receive covered services in Canada or the continental United States. Coverage extends to vehicles that use public, non-seasonal, annually traveled roadways. Roadside Assistance coverage does not extend to vehicles involved in cross-country driving, logging, autocross and any other form of off-road use. Well maintained roads and surfaces help ensure safe travel for the supplier, and allow their representatives to perform service as per the standard operating procedures. In Remote Locations If our supplier cannot take your vehicle by road to the nearest authorized dealership, transportation by rail or water may be necessary. The program covers a tow to the dock or rail terminal and also to the dealership at the end of the trip. For rail or water transportation, however, contact your authorized dealer to confirm if you are eligible for additional coverage before you authorize or pay for the service. Call the Ford Roadside Assistance at 1-800-665-2006 for additional information.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Roadside Emergencies

259

HAZARD WARNING FLASHERS

The hazard flasher control is located on the instrument panel by the radio. Use it when your vehicle is disabled and is creating a safety hazard for other motorists.

• Press the flasher control and all front and rear direction signals will flash. • Press the flasher control again to turn them off. Note: With extended use, the flashers may run down your 12–volt battery.

FUEL SHUTOFF

WARNING: Failure to inspect and if necessary repair fuel leaks after a collision may increase the risk of fire and serious injury.

Ford Motor Company recommends that the fuel system be inspected by an authorized dealer after any collision.

In the event of a moderate to severe collision, this vehicle includes a fuel pump shutoff feature that stops the flow of fuel to the engine. Not every impact will cause a shutoff. Should your vehicle shut off after a collision, you may restart your vehicle. For vehicles equipped with a key system: 1. Switch off the ignition. 2. Switch on the ignition. 3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 to re-enable fuel pump. For vehicles equipped with a push button start system: 1. Press the START/STOP button to switch off the ignition. 2. Press the brake pedal and press the START/STOP button to start the vehicle. 3. Remove your foot from the brake pedal and press the START/STOP button to switch off the ignition. 4. You can either attempt to start the engine by pressing the brake pedal and the START/STOP button, or switch on the ignition only by pressing the START/STOP button without pressing the brake pedal. Both ways re-enable the fuel system.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

260

Roadside Emergencies

Note: When you try to restart your vehicle after a fuel shutoff, the vehicle makes sure that various systems are safe to restart. Once your vehicle determines that the systems are safe, then the vehicle will allow you to restart. Note: In the event that your vehicle does not restart after your third attempt, contact an authorized dealer.

JUMP-STARTING THE VEHICLE

WARNING: The gases around the battery can explode if exposed to flames, sparks, or lit cigarettes. An explosion could result in

injury or vehicle damage.

WARNING: Batteries contain sulfuric acid which can burn skin, eyes and clothing, if contacted.

Do not attempt to push-start your automatic transmission vehicle. Automatic transmissions do not have push-start capability. Attempting to push-start a vehicle with an automatic transmission may cause transmission damage. When the battery is disconnected or a new battery is installed, the automatic transmission must relearn its shift strategy. As a result, the transmission may exhibit a combination of firm and 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.

Preparing Your Vehicle Note: Use only a 12–volt supply to start your vehicle. Note: Do not disconnect the battery of the disabled vehicle as this could damage the vehicle’s electrical system. 1. Park the booster vehicle close to the hood of the disabled vehicle making sure the two vehicles do not touch. Set the parking brake on both vehicles and stay clear of the engine cooling fan and other moving parts. 2. Check all battery terminals. Remove the positive terminal cover (if equipped) and any excessive corrosion before you attach the battery cables. Ensure that vent caps are tight and level. 3. Turn the heater fan on in both vehicles to protect from any electrical surges. Turn all other accessories off.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Roadside Emergencies

261

Connecting the Jumper Cables

WARNING: Do not connect the end of the second cable to the negative (-) terminal of the battery to be jumped. A spark may

cause an explosion of the gases that surround the battery.

Note: Do not attach the negative (-) cable to fuel lines, engine rocker covers, the intake manifold or electrical components as grounding points. Note: In the illustration, the vehicle on the bottom is used to designate the assisting (boosting) battery.

1. Connect the positive (+) jumper cable to the positive (+) terminal of the discharged battery. 2. Connect the other end of the positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the assisting battery. 3. Connect the negative (-) cable to the negative (-) terminal of the assisting battery. 4. Make the final connection of the negative (-) cable to an exposed metal part of the stalled vehicle’s engine, away from the battery and the carburetor or fuel injection system.

Ensure that the cables are clear of fan blades, belts, moving parts of both engines, or any fuel delivery system parts.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

262

Roadside Emergencies

Jump Starting 1. Start the engine of the booster vehicle and run the engine at a moderately increased speed. 2. Start the engine of the disabled vehicle. 3. Once the disabled vehicle has been started, run both engines for an additional three minutes before disconnecting the jumper cables.

Removing the Jumper Cables Note: In the illustration, the vehicle on the bottom is used to designate the assisting (boosting) battery. Remove the jumper cables in the reverse order that they were connected.

1. Remove the jumper cable from the ground metal surface. 2. Remove the jumper cable on the negative (-) terminal of the booster vehicle’s battery. 3. Remove the jumper cable from the positive (+) terminal of the booster vehicle’s battery. 4. Remove the jumper cable from the positive (+) terminal of the disabled vehicle’s battery.

After the disabled vehicle has been started and the jumper cables removed, allow it to idle for several minutes so the engine computer can relearn its idle conditions.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Customer Assistance

263

GETTING THE SERVICES YOU NEED Warranty repairs to your vehicle must be performed by an authorized dealer. While any authorized dealer handling your vehicle line will provide warranty service, we recommend you return to your selling authorized dealer who wants to ensure your continued satisfaction. Please note that certain warranty repairs require special training, equipment or both, so not all authorized dealers are authorized to perform all warranty repairs. This means that, depending on the warranty repair needed, you may have to take your vehicle to another authorized dealer. A reasonable time must be allowed to perform a repair after taking your vehicle to the authorized dealer. Repairs will be made using Ford or Motorcraft parts, or remanufactured or other parts that are authorized by Ford. Away from Home If you are away from home when your vehicle needs service, contact the Ford Customer Relationship Center or use the online resources listed below to find the nearest authorized dealer. In the United States: Mailing Address Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center P.O. Box 6248
Dearborn, MI 48121
Telephone 1-800-392-3673 (FORD) (TDD for the hearing impaired: 1-800-232-5952) Online Additional information and resources are available online at www.fordowner.com. These are some of the items that can be found online: • U.S. Dealer Locator by Dealer Name, City/State, or Zip Code • Owner Manuals • Maintenance Schedules • Recalls • Ford Extended Service Plans • Ford Genuine Accessories • Service specials and promotions.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

264

Customer Assistance

In Canada: Mailing address Customer Relationship Centre Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited P.O. Box 2000
Oakville, Ontario L6K 1C8
Telephone 1-800-565-3673 (FORD) Online www.ford.ca Twitter @FordServiceCA (English Canada) @FordServiceQC (Quebec) Additional Assistance If you have questions or concerns, or are unsatisfied with the service you are receiving, follow these steps: 1. Contact your Sales Representative or Service Advisor at your selling or servicing authorized dealer. 2. If your inquiry or concern remains unresolved, contact the Sales Manager, Service Manager or Customer Relations Manager. 3. If you require assistance or clarification on Ford Motor Company policies, please contact the Ford Customer Relationship Center. In order to help serve you better, please have the following information available when contacting a Customer Relationship Center: • Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) • Your telephone number (home and business) • The name of the authorized dealer and city where located • The vehicle’s current odometer reading. In some states, you must directly notify Ford in writing before pursuing remedies under your state’s warranty laws. Ford is also allowed a final repair attempt in some states. In the United States, a warranty dispute must be submitted to the BBB AUTO LINE before taking action under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, or to the extent allowed by state law, before pursuing replacement or repurchase remedies provided by certain state laws. This dispute handling procedure is not required prior to enforcing state created rights

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Customer Assistance

265

or other rights which are independent of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act or state replacement or repurchase laws.

IN CALIFORNIA (U.S. ONLY) California Civil Code Section 1793.2(d) requires that, if a manufacturer or its representative is unable to repair a motor vehicle to conform to the vehicle’s applicable express warranty after a reasonable number of attempts, the manufacturer shall be required to either replace the vehicle with one substantially identical or repurchase the vehicle and reimburse the buyer in an amount equal to the actual price paid or payable by the consumer (less a reasonable allowance for consumer use). The consumer has the right to choose whether to receive a refund or replacement vehicle. California Civil Code Section 1793.22(b) presumes that the manufacturer has had a reasonable number of attempts to conform the vehicle to its applicable express warranties if, within the first 18 months of ownership of a new vehicle or the first 18000 mi (29 000 km), whichever occurs first: 1. Two or more repair attempts are made on the same nonconformity likely to cause death or serious bodily injury OR 2. Four or more repair attempts are made on the same nonconformity (a defect or condition that substantially impairs the use, value or safety of the vehicle) OR 3. The vehicle is out of service for repair of nonconformities for a total of more than 30 calendar days (not necessarily all at one time). In the case of 1 or 2 above, the consumer must also notify the manufacturer of the need for the repair of the nonconformity at the following address: Ford Motor Company 16800 Executive Plaza Drive Mail Drop 3NE-B Dearborn, MI 48126
You are required to submit your warranty dispute to BBB AUTO LINE before asserting in court any rights or remedies conferred by California Civil Code Section 1793.22(b). You are also required to use BBB AUTO LINE before exercising rights or seeking remedies created by the Federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, 15 U.S.C. sec. 2301 et seq. If you choose to seek redress by pursuing rights and remedies not created by California Civil Code Section 1793.22(b) or the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, resorting to BBB AUTO LINE is not required by those statutes.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

266

Customer Assistance

THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU (BBB) AUTO LINE PROGRAM (U.S. ONLY) Your satisfaction is important to Ford Motor Company and to your dealer. If a warranty concern has not been resolved using the three-step procedure outlined earlier in this chapter in the Getting the Services You Need section, you may be eligible to participate in the BBB AUTO LINE program. The BBB AUTO LINE program consists of two parts – mediation and arbitration. During mediation, a representative of the BBB will contact both you and Ford Motor Company to explore options for settlement of the claim. If an agreement is not reached during mediation or you do not want to participate in mediation, and if your claim is eligible, you may participate in the arbitration process. An arbitration hearing will be scheduled so that you can present your case in an informal setting before an impartial person. The arbitrator will consider the testimony provided and make a decision after the hearing. Disputes submitted to the BBB AUTO LINE program are usually decided within 40 days after you file your claim with the BBB. You are not bound by the decision, and may reject the decision and proceed to court where all findings of the BBB Auto Line dispute, and decision, are admissible in the court action. Should you choose to accept the BBB AUTO LINE decision, Ford is then bound by the decision, and must comply with the decision within 30 days of receipt of your acceptance letter. BBB AUTO LINE Application: Using the information provided below, please call or write to request a program application. You will be asked for your name and address, general information about your new vehicle, information about your warranty concerns, and any steps you have already taken to try to resolve them. A Customer Claim Form will be mailed that will need to be completed, signed and returned to the BBB along with proof of ownership. Upon receipt, the BBB will review the claim for eligibility under the Program Summary Guidelines. You can get more information by calling BBB AUTO LINE at 1-800-955-5100, or writing to: BBB AUTO LINE 3033 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 600
Arlington, Virginia 22201
BBB AUTO LINE applications can also be requested by calling the Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-800-392-3673. Note: Ford Motor Company reserves the right to change eligibility limitations, modify procedures, or to discontinue this process at any time without notice and without obligation.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Customer Assistance

267

UTILIZING THE MEDIATION or ARBITRATION PROGRAM (CANADA ONLY) This pertains to vehicles delivered to authorized Canadian dealers. In those cases, where you continue to feel that the efforts by Ford of Canada and the authorized dealer to resolve a factory-related vehicle service concern have been unsatisfactory, Ford of Canada participates in an impartial third party mediation or arbitration program administered by the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP). The CAMVAP program is a straightforward and relatively speedy alternative to resolve a disagreement when all other efforts to produce a settlement have failed. This procedure is without cost to you and is designed to eliminate the need for lengthy and expensive legal proceedings. In the CAMVAP program, impartial third-party arbitrators conduct hearings at mutually convenient times and places in an informal environment. These impartial arbitrators review the positions of the parties, make decisions and, when appropriate, render awards to resolve disputes. CAMVAP decisions are fast, fair, and final as the arbitrator’s award is binding on both you and Ford of Canada. CAMVAP services are available in all Canadian territories and provinces. For more information, without charge or obligation, call your CAMVAP Provincial Administrator directly at 1-800-207-0685 or visit www.camvap.ca.

GETTING ASSISTANCE OUTSIDE THE U.S. AND CANADA Before exporting your vehicle to a foreign country, contact the appropriate foreign embassy or consulate. These officials can inform you of local vehicle registration regulations and where to find unleaded fuel. If you cannot find unleaded fuel or can only get fuel with an anti-knock index lower than is recommended for your vehicle, contact our Customer Relationship Center. The use of leaded fuel in your vehicle without proper conversion may damage the effectiveness of your emission control system and may cause engine knocking or serious engine damage. Ford Motor Company or Ford of Canada is not responsible for any damage caused by use of improper fuel. Using leaded fuel may also result in difficulty importing your vehicle back into the United States.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

268

Customer Assistance

If your vehicle must be serviced while you are traveling or living in Asia-Pacific Region, Sub-Saharan Africa, U.S. Virgin Islands, Central America, the Caribbean, and Israel, contact the nearest authorized dealer. If the authorized dealer cannot help you, contact: FORD MOTOR COMPANY Customer Relationship Center 1555 Fairlane Drive Fairlane Business Park #3
Allen Park, Michigan 48101
U.S.A. Telephone: (313) 594-4857
FAX: (313) 390-0804
Email: [email protected] For customers in Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), America Samoa, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, please feel free to call our Toll-Free Number: (800) 841-FORD (3673) If your vehicle must be serviced while you are traveling or living in Puerto Rico, contact the nearest authorized dealer. If the authorized dealer cannot help you, contact: FORD MOTOR COMPANY Customer Relationship Center 1555 Fairlane Drive Fairlane Business Park #3
Allen Park, Michigan 48101
Telephone: (800) 841-FORD (3673) FAX: (313) 390-0804
Email: [email protected] www.ford.com.pr

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Customer Assistance

269

If your vehicle must be serviced while you are traveling or living in the Middle East, contact the nearest authorized dealer. If the authorized dealer cannot help you, contact: FORD MOTOR COMPANY Customer Relationship Center 1555 Fairlane Drive Fairlane Business Park #3
Allen Park, Michigan 48101
Telephone: +971 4 3326084
Toll-Free Number of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: 800 8971409
Local Telephone Number of Kuwait: 24810575
FAX: +971 4 3327299
Email: [email protected] www.me.ford.com If you buy your vehicle in North America and then relocate to any of the above locations, register your vehicle identification number (VIN) and new address with Ford Motor Company Export Operations & Global Growth Initiatives by emailing [email protected]. If you are in another foreign country, contact the nearest authorized dealer. In the event your inquiry is unresolved, communicate your concern with the dealership’s Sales Manager, Service Manager or Customer Relations Manager. If you require additional assistance or clarification, please contact the respective Customer Relationship Center as previously listed. Customers in the U.S. should call 1-800-392-3673.

ORDERING ADDITIONAL OWNER’S LITERATURE To order the publications in this portfolio, contact Helm, Incorporated at: HELM, INCORPORATED 47911 Halyard Drive Plymouth, Michigan 48170
Attention: Customer Service Or to order a free publication catalog, call toll free: 1-800-782-4356
Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. EST Helm, Incorporated can also be reached by their website: www.helminc.com. (Items in this catalog may be purchased by credit card, check or money order.)

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

270

Customer Assistance

Obtaining a French Owner’s Manual A French owner’s manual can be obtained from your authorized dealer or by contacting Helm, Incorporated using the contact information listed previously in this section.

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS (U.S. ONLY)

If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety

Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Ford Motor Company. If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or Ford Motor Company. To contact NHTSA, you may call the Vehicle Safety Hotline toll-free at 1–888–327–4236 (TTY: 1–800–424–9153); go to http://www.safercar.gov; or write to: Administrator 1200 New Jersey Avenue, Southeast Washington, D.C. 20590
You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from http://www.safercar.gov.

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS (CANADA ONLY) If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform Transport Canada, using their toll-free number: 1–800–333–0510, or online at: http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/roadsafety/menu.htm

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

Fuses

271

CHANGING A FUSE

Fuses

WARNING: Always replace a fuse with one that has the specified amperage rating. Using a fuse with a higher amperage

rating can cause severe wire damage and could start a fire.

If electrical components in your vehicle are not working, a fuse may have blown. Blown fuses are identified by a broken wire within the fuse. Check the appropriate fuses before replacing any electrical components.

15

FUSE SPECIFICATION CHART

Power Distribution Box

WARNING: Always disconnect the battery before servicing high current fuses.

WARNING: To reduce risk of electrical shock, always replace the cover to the power distribution box before reconnecting the

battery or refilling fluid reservoirs.

2015 Taurus Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2014
USA (fus)

272

Fuses

The power distribution box is located in the engine compartment. It has high-current fuses that protect your vehicle’s main electrical systems from overloads. If the battery has been disconnected and reconnected, see Changing the Vehicle Battery in the Maintenance chapter.

98

77

97
96
76
75

95
74
73

94 93 92 91 90 89

72

71

70

69

68

67

88

66

54

53

52

51

50

49

48

47

46

45

87

86

85

84

83

82

81

80

79

78

65

64

63

62

61

60

59