Get Driving Guide for Ford Edge SUV First Generation (2007-2014)

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.

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.

Preparing to start your vehicle

Engine starting is controlled by the powertrain control system.

This system meets all Canadian interference-causing equipment standard

requirements regulating the impulse electrical field strength of radio

noise.

When starting a fuel-injected engine, avoid pressing 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.

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.

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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

When the engine starts, the idle RPM runs faster 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 buckle their safety belts. For more

information on safety belts and their proper usage, refer to the Seating

and Safety Restraints chapter.

2. Make sure the headlamps and electrical accessories are off.

• Make sure the parking brake is

set.

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• Make sure the gearshift 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.

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

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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

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

its dangerous effects.

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 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.

ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (IF EQUIPPED)

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).

WARNING: Failure to follow engine block heater instructions

could result in property damage or physical injury.

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WARNING: To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not use

your heater with ungrounded electrical systems or two-pronged

(cheater) adapters.

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.

• 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.

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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.

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

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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 may be disabled and may need to be serviced.

Even when the ABS is disabled,

normal braking is still effective. If

your BRAKE warning lamp

illuminates with the parking brake

released, have your brake system

serviced immediately by an 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.

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.

ABS

BRAKE

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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

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.

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.

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WARNING: If a failure has been detected within the

AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system, the “sliding car” icon

will

illuminate steadily. Verify that the AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system is

not manually disabled (press the AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 “Off “

button located on the center of the instrument panel). If the “sliding

car” icon

still illuminates steadily, have the system serviced by an

authorized dealer immediately. Operating your vehicle with

AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 disabled could lead to an increased risk of

loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.

The AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system provides the following stability

enhancement features for certain driving situations:

• Traction Control System (TCS), which functions to help avoid

drive-wheel spin and loss of traction.

• Electronic Stability Control (ESC), which functions to help avoid skids

or lateral slides

• Roll Stability Control™ (RSC威), which functions to help avoid a

vehicle roll-over.

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

with RSC威 “Off” button on the

center of the instrument panel, and

a “sliding car” icon

in the

instrument cluster. The “sliding car”

icon

in the instrument cluster will illuminate temporarily during

start-up as part of a normal system self-check, or during driving if a

driving situation causes the AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system to operate.

If the “sliding car” icon

illuminates steadily, verify that the

AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system is not manually disabled by pressing

the AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 “Off” button located on the center of the

instrument panel. If the “sliding car” icon

remains steadily

illuminated, 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.

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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.

When an event occurs that activates AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 you may

experience the following:

• A slight deceleration of the vehicle

• The “sliding car”

indicator light will flash.

• A vibration in the pedal when your foot is on the brake 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)

Traction control 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 traction control events the “sliding car” icon

in the instrument

cluster will flash.

If the traction control system 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, traction control 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 are not affected by

this condition and 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 AdvanceTrac威

with RSC威 section below.

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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.

During ESC events the “sliding car” icon

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

versa

• Entering a paved road from a gravel road, or vice versa

• Cornering while towing a heavily loaded trailer (refer to Trailer

towing in the Tires, Wheels and Loading chapter).

The Electronic Stability Control system may be deactivated in certain

situations. See the Switching Off AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 section

following.

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 RSC威 the “sliding car” icon

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

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The RSC威 system may be deactivated in certain situations. See the

Switching Off AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 section following.

Switching Off AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威

If the vehicle is stuck in snow, mud or sand, and seems to lose engine

power, switching off certain features 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 switch off the AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system press the

AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 “Off” button. Full features of the AdvanceTrac威

with RSC威 system can be restored by pressing the AdvanceTrac威 with

RSC威 “Off” button again or by turning off and restarting the engine.

If you switch off the AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system, the “sliding car”

icon

will illuminate steadily. Pressing the AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威

“Off” button again will turn off the “sliding car” icon

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.

AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 Features

Button

functions

“Sliding

car”

icon

RSC威 ESC

Engine

traction

control

Brake

traction

control

Default at

start-up

Illuminated

during

bulb check

Enabled Enabled Enabled Enabled

Button

pressed

momentarily

Illuminated

solid

Disabled

below

38 mph

(60 km/h)

Disabled

below

38 mph

(60 km/h)

Disabled

below

38 mph

(60 km/h)

Enabled

Button

pressed

again after

deactivation

Not

illuminated

Enabled Enabled Enabled Enabled

TRAILER SWAY CONTROL

When properly equipped, trailer sway control will use the vehicle’s

AdvanceTrac威 with RSC威 system to detect and help reduce trailer sway

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by applying brake force at individual wheels and, if necessary, by

reducing engine power. Trailer sway control is only enabled above

40 mph (64 km/h).

WARNING: Trailer sway control does not prevent a trailer from

swaying. It mitigates the sway from increasing once it has

occurred. 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

experienced, SLOW DOWN.

During trailer sway control events, the

icon in the instrument cluster

will flash momentarily. The 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, and you may experience a slight deceleration of

the vehicle.

Disabling trailer sway control

Trailer sway control can be disabled during any key cycle. Refer to

Message center in the Instrument Cluster chapter for more information.

Note that even if it was disabled before turning off the vehicle, trailer

sway control will be re-enabled at 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

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.

• Do not operate the vehicle with a low power steering fluid level

(below the MIN mark on the reservoir).

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• Some noise is normal during operation. If the noise is excessive, check

for a low power steering fluid level before seeking service by your

authorized dealer.

• Heavy or uneven steering efforts may be caused by a low power

steering fluid level. Check for a low power steering fluid level before

seeking service by your authorized dealer.

• Do not fill the power steering fluid reservoir above the MAX mark on

the reservoir.

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.

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 steering alignment

A high crown in the road or high crosswinds may also make the steering

seem to wander/pull.

BRAKE-SHIFT INTERLOCK

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

in the on position unless the brake pedal is pressed.

If you cannot move the gearshift lever out of P (Park) with ignition in

the on position 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

Fuses and relays in the Roadside Emergencies chapter.

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):

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1. Apply the parking brake, turn the

ignition key to the off position, 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) position

and into the N (Neutral) position.

6. Install the trim panel (2) and

chrome ring (1) in reverse order.

7. Apply brake pedal, start the vehicle, and release the parking brake.

See your authorized dealer as soon as possible if this procedure

is used.

WARNING: Do not drive your vehicle until you verify that the

brakelamps are working.

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.

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.

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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.

Understanding the gearshift positions of the 6–speed automatic

transmission

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).

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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) with Overdrive

The normal driving position for the best fuel economy. Transmission

operates in gears one through six.

D (Drive) with Overdrive Cancel and Grade Assist

Pressing the transmission control

switch on the side of the gearshift

lever activates two features at the

same time: Overdrive Cancel and

Grade Assist.

1. Overdrive Cancel

• Overdrive is deactivated.

• The transmission operates in

gears one through five.

• The O/D OFF lamp in the

instrument cluster is illuminated.

2. Grade Assist

• Improves driving experience in hilly terrain or mountainous areas by

providing additional grade (engine) braking and extends lower gear

operation on uphill climbs.

• 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.

O/D

OFF

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Overdrive Cancel with Grade Assist is designed to provide optimal gear

selection in hilly terrain or mountainous areas. 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 O/D (overdrive mode), press the transmission control switch

again.

• The O/D OFF lamp in the instrument cluster will not be illuminated.

• The transmission will operate in gears one through six.

O/D (overdrive mode) is automatically returned each time the key is

turned off.

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.

If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow

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.

Do not rock the vehicle if the engine is not at normal operating

temperature or damage to the transmission may occur.

Do not rock the vehicle for more than a minute or damage to the

transmission and tires may occur, or the engine may overheat.

It may be beneficial to turn the AdvanceTrac威 with RSC system off so

the wheels are allowed to spin.

REVERSE SENSING SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)

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.

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WARNING: To help avoid personal injury, always use caution

when in R (Reverse) and when using the RSS.

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.

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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.

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.

BLIND SPOT MIRRORS (IF EQUIPPED)

Blind spot mirrors have an

integrated convex spotter mirror

built into the upper outboard corner

of the outside mirrors. They are

designed to assist the driver by

increasing visibility along the side of

the vehicle. For more information on

your side view mirrors, refer to

Exterior mirrors in the Driver

Controls chapter.

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Driving with blind spot mirrors

Before a lane change, check the

main mirror first, then check the

blind spot mirror. If no vehicles are

present in the blind spot mirror and

the traffic in the adjacent lane is at

a safe distance, signal that you are

going to change lanes. Glance over

your shoulder to verify traffic is

clear, and carefully change lanes.

When the approaching vehicle is at

a distance, its image is small and

near the inboard edge of the main

mirror. As the vehicle approaches,

the image becomes larger and

begins to move outboard across the

main mirror (1). As the vehicle

approaches its image will transition

from the main mirror and begin to

appear in the blind spot mirror (2).

As the vehicle leaves the blind spot

mirror it will transition to the driver’s peripheral field of view (3).

WARNING: Objects in the blind spot mirror are closer than they

appear.

ALL WHEEL DRIVE (AWD) SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)

Your vehicle may be equipped with a full-time all wheel drive (AWD)

system. With the AWD option, power will be delivered to the front

wheels and distributed to the rear wheels as needed. 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.

If your vehicle is equipped with AWD, a spare tire of a different size

other than the tire provided should never be used. A dissimilar spare tire

size (other than the spare tire provided) or major dissimilar tire sizes

between the front and rear axles could cause the AWD system to stop

functioning and default to front wheel drive and could damage the

system.

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Note: Your AWD vehicle is not intended for severe 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 off-highway with AWD vehicles

AWD vehicles are 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 L (Low) gear when possible. L (Low) 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

characteristics of your vehicle.

• Be extremely careful when driving on pavement made slippery by

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.

If your vehicle gets stuck

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.

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If your vehicle is equipped with AdvanceTrac威 with Roll Stability

Control™, it may be beneficial to disengage the AdvanceTrac威 with Roll

Stability Control™ system while attempting to rock the vehicle.

Do not rock the vehicle if the engine is not at normal operating

temperature or damage to the transmission may occur.

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.

WARNING: Always set the parking brake fully and make sure

the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the

LOCK position 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.

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.

• 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.

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AWD systems (if equipped)

With AWD, the vehicle 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.

Do not drive your AWD vehicle in deep sand for an extended period of

time. This will cause the AWD system to overheat. If the rear tires stop

spinning while the front tires spin in deep sand, turn off the vehicle and

allow the AWD system to cool down for a minimum of 15 minutes. After

the system has cooled down, normal AWD function will return. When

driving at slow speeds in deep sand under high outside temperatures,

use L (Low) gear when possible. L (Low) 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 (for cars) or the bottom of the hubs

(for trucks) (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.

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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.

Driving through deep water may damage the 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.

“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. 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 turnaround 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

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),

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.

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.

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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

off-highway usage.

DRIVING THROUGH WATER

If driving through deep or standing

water is unavoidable, proceed very

slowly especially when the depth is

not known. 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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Driving for Your Ford Edge SUV First Generation (2007-2014)

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