Get Driving -> BRAKES Guide for Ford Explorer SUV Third Generation (2002-2005)

Driving

If the engine fails to start using the preceding instructions (flexible

fuel vehicles only)

1. Press and hold down the accelerator 1/3 to 1/2 way to floor, then

crank the engine.

2. When the engine starts, release the key, then gradually release the

accelerator pedal as the engine speeds up. If the engine still fails to start,

repeat Step 1.

Using the engine block heater (if equipped)

An engine block heater warms the engine coolant which aids in starting

and heater/defroster performance. Use of an engine block heater is

strongly recommended if you live in a region where temperatures reach

-23° C (-10° F) or below. For best results, plug the heater in at least

three hours before starting the vehicle. The heater can be plugged in the

night before starting the vehicle.

To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not use your heater

with ungrounded electrical systems or two-pronged (cheater)

adapters.

Guarding against exhaust fumes

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

its dangerous effects.

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 2.5 cm (one inch) or adjust the heating

or air conditioning to bring in fresh air.

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 a qualified service technician. If the vehicle

has continuous vibration or shudder in the steering wheel while braking,

the vehicle should be inspected by a qualified service technician.

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2003 Explorer (exp)

Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)

USA English (fus)

Driving

Four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS)

Your vehicle is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). This

system helps you maintain steering control during emergency stops by

keeping the brakes from locking. Noise from the ABS pump motor and

brake pedal pulsation may be observed during ABS braking; this is

normal and should be no reason for concern.

ABS

ABS warning lamp

ABS

The

lamp in the instrument cluster momentarily illuminates when

the ignition is turned to 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.)

Brake Assist (if equipped as part of the AdvanceTracி system)

The Brake Assist system provides full braking force during panic braking

situations. It detects a rapid application of the brake pedal and

maximizes the amount of brake booster assist, helping the driver to

achieve maximum braking pressure. Once a panic brake application is

detected, the system will remain activated as long as the brake pedal is

depressed. The system is deactivated by releasing the brake pedal.

When the system activates, the brake pedal will travel with very little

effort; this is normal.

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.

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2003 Explorer (exp)

Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)

USA English (fus)

Driving

The BRAKE warning lamp in the

instrument cluster illuminates and

remains illuminated (when the

ignition is turned ON) until the

parking brake is released.

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.

Pull the release lever to release the

brake. Driving with the parking

brake on will cause the brakes to

wear out quickly and reduce fuel

economy.

ADVANCETRACி STABILITY ENHANCEMENT SYSTEM

(IF EQUIPPED)

The AdvanceTrac௢ system provides a stability enhancement feature as

well as a traction enhancement feature. It helps your vehicle maintain

traction, when driving on slippery and/or hilly road surfaces, by detecting

and controlling wheel spin. Excessive wheel spin is controlled by

momentarily reducing engine power and rapidly applying the anti-lock

brakes. The system is a driver aid which makes your vehicle easier to

handle primarily on snow and ice-covered roads.

If your vehicle should become stuck in deep snow or mud, try switching

the AdvanceTrac௢ system off by pressing the AdvanceTrac௢ button.

This will allow your tires to “dig” for traction.

If the AdvanceTrac௢ system is activated excessively in a short period of

time, the brake portion of the system will shut down to allow the brakes

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2003 Explorer (exp)

Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)

USA English (fus)

Driving -> BRAKES for Your Ford Explorer SUV Third Generation (2002-2005)

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