2012-2020 Ford Explorer SUV Fuel and Refueling User Manual

MY CAR USER MANUAL

Fuel and Refueling for Your Ford Explorer SUV Sixth Generation (2012-2020)

Fuel and Refueling  
•
Avoid inhaling fuel vapors. Inhaling fuel  
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS  
vapor can lead to eye and respiratory  
tract irritation. In severe cases,  
excessive or prolonged breathing of  
fuel vapor can cause serious illness and  
permanent injury.  
WARNING: Do not overfill the fuel  
tank. The pressure in an overfilled tank  
may cause leakage and lead to fuel spray  
and fire.  
•
Avoid getting fuel in your eyes. If you  
splash fuel in your eyes, immediately  
remove contact lenses (if worn), flush  
with water for 15 minutes and seek  
medical attention. Failure to seek  
proper medical attention could lead to  
permanent injury.  
Fuels can be harmful if absorbed  
through the skin. If you splash fuel on  
your skin, clothing or both, promptly  
remove contaminated clothing and  
thoroughly wash your skin with soap  
and water. Repeated or prolonged skin  
contact causes skin irritation.  
Be particularly careful if you are taking  
Antabuse or other forms of Disulfiram  
for the treatment of alcoholism.  
Breathing fuel vapors could cause an  
adverse reaction, serious personal  
injury or sickness. Immediately call a  
physician if you experience any adverse  
reactions.  
WARNING: The fuel system may  
be under pressure. If you hear a hissing  
sound near the fuel filler inlet, do not  
refuel until the sound stops. Otherwise,  
fuel may spray out, which could cause  
serious personal injury.  
•
•
WARNING:Fuels can cause serious  
injury or death if misused or mishandled.  
WARNING: Fuel may contain  
benzene, which is a cancer-causing  
agent.  
WARNING: When refueling always  
shut the engine off and never allow  
sparks or open flames near the fuel tank  
filler valve. Never smoke or use a cell  
phone while refueling. Fuel vapor is  
extremely hazardous under certain  
conditions. Avoid inhaling excess fumes.  
FUEL QUALITY - E85  
Follow these guidelines when refueling:  
•
Extinguish all smoking materials and  
any open flames before refueling your  
vehicle.  
ChoosingtheRightFuel-FlexFuel  
Vehicles  
•
•
Always switch the engine off before  
Flex fuel vehicles have one of the following  
identifiers:  
refueling.  
Automotive fuels can be harmful or  
fatal if swallowed. Fuel is highly toxic  
and if swallowed can cause death or  
permanent injury. If fuel is swallowed  
immediately call a physician, even if no  
symptoms are immediately apparent.  
The toxic effects of fuel may not be  
apparent for hours.  
•
•
•
•
Yellow fuel filler cap.  
Yellow bezel around the fuel filler inlet.  
Yellow fuel filler housing.  
Yellow E85 label on the fuel tank filler  
door.  
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Fuel and Refueling  
Do not use:  
•
•
•
Diesel fuel.  
Fuels containing kerosene or paraffin.  
Fuels containing more than 85%  
ethanol or E100 fuel.  
•
•
Fuels containing methanol.  
Fuels containing metallic-based  
additives, including manganese-based  
compounds.  
Fuels containing the octane booster  
additive, methylcyclopentadienyl  
manganese tricarbonyl (MMT).  
E161513  
Your vehicle is designed to operate on  
regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum  
pump (R+M)/2 octane rating of 87 or  
regular unleaded gasoline blended with a  
maximum of 85% ethanol (E85).  
Some fuel stations, particularly those in  
high altitude areas, offer fuels posted as  
regular unleaded gasoline with an octane  
rating below 87. The use of these fuels  
could result in engine damage that will not  
be covered by the vehicle warranty.  
•
•
Leaded fuel, using leaded fuel is  
prohibited by law.  
The use of fuels with metallic compounds  
such as methylcyclopentadienyl  
manganese tricarbonyl (commonly known  
as MMT), which is a manganese-based  
fuel additive, will impair engine  
performance and affect the emission  
control system.  
For best overall vehicle and engine  
performance, premium fuel with an octane  
rating of 91 or higher is recommended. The  
performance gained by using premium fuel  
is most noticeable in hot weather as well  
as other conditions, for example when  
towing a trailer. See Towing (page 288).  
Switching Between E85 and  
Gasoline  
We do not recommend repeatedly  
alternating between E85 and gasoline. If  
you switch from using E85 to gasoline, or  
from gasoline to E85, add as much fuel as  
possible, at least half a tank. Drive your  
vehicle immediately for a minimum of 5 mi  
(8 km) to allow it to adapt to the change  
in ethanol concentration. If you use E85  
exclusively, we recommend that you fill  
the fuel tank with regular unleaded  
Do not be concerned if the engine  
sometimes knocks lightly. However, if the  
engine knocks heavily while using fuel with  
the recommended octane rating, contact  
an authorized dealer to prevent any engine  
damage.  
We recommend Top Tier detergent  
gasolines, where available to help minimize  
engine deposits and maintain optimal  
vehicle and engine performance. For  
additional information, refer to  
gasoline at each scheduled oil change.  
www.toptiergas.com.  
Note: Use of any fuel for which the vehicle  
was not designed can impair the emission  
control system, cause loss of vehicle  
performance, and cause damage to the  
engine which may not be covered by the  
vehicle Warranty.  
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Note: Use of any fuel for which the vehicle  
FUEL QUALITY - GASOLINE  
Choosing the Right Fuel  
was not designed can impair the emission  
control system, cause loss of vehicle  
performance, and cause damage to the  
engine which may not be covered by the  
vehicle Warranty.  
Do not use:  
•
•
•
Diesel fuel.  
Fuels containing kerosene or paraffin.  
Fuel containing more than 15% ethanol  
or E85 fuel.  
E161513  
•
•
Fuels containing methanol.  
Your vehicle is designed to operate on  
regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum  
pump (R+M)/2 octane rating of 87.  
Fuels containing metallic-based  
additives, including manganese-based  
compounds.  
Some fuel stations, particularly those in  
high altitude areas, offer fuels posted as  
regular unleaded gasoline with an octane  
rating below 87. The use of these fuels  
could result in engine damage that will not  
be covered by the vehicle warranty.  
•
•
Fuels containing the octane booster  
additive, methylcyclopentadienyl  
manganese tricarbonyl (MMT).  
Leaded fuel, using leaded fuel is  
prohibited by law.  
The use of fuels with metallic compounds  
such as methylcyclopentadienyl  
manganese tricarbonyl (commonly known  
as MMT), which is a manganese-based  
fuel additive, will impair engine  
performance and affect the emission  
control system.  
For best overall vehicle and engine  
performance, premium fuel with an octane  
rating of 91 or higher is recommended. The  
performance gained by using premium fuel  
is most noticeable in hot weather as well  
as other conditions, for example when  
towing a trailer. See Towing (page 288).  
Do not be concerned if the engine  
sometimes knocks lightly. However, if the  
engine knocks heavily while using fuel with  
the recommended octane rating, contact  
an authorized dealer to prevent any engine  
damage.  
FUEL FILLER FUNNEL  
LOCATION  
The fuel filler funnel is in the spare wheel  
storage tray.  
We recommend Top Tier detergent  
gasolines, where available to help minimize  
engine deposits and maintain optimal  
vehicle and engine performance. For  
additional information, refer to  
RUNNING OUT OF FUEL  
Running out of fuel can cause damage not  
covered by the vehicle Warranty.  
www.toptiergas.com.  
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Fuel and Refueling  
If your vehicle runs out of fuel:  
Adding Fuel From a Portable Fuel  
Container  
•
Add a minimum of 1.3 gal (5 L) of fuel  
to restart the engine.  
•
You may need to switch the ignition  
from off to on several times after  
refueling to allow the fuel system to  
pump the fuel from the tank to the  
engine. When restarting, cranking time  
takes a few seconds longer than  
normal.  
WARNING: Do not insert the nozzle  
of a fuel container or an aftermarket  
funnel into the fuel filler neck. This may  
damage the fuel system filler neck or its  
seal and cause fuel to run onto the  
ground.  
Note: If your vehicle is on a steep slope,  
WARNING: Do not try to pry open  
or push open the capless fuel system  
with foreign objects. This could damage  
the fuel system and its seal and cause  
injury to you or others.  
more fuel may be required.  
Filling a Portable Fuel Container  
WARNING: Flow of fuel through a  
fuel pump nozzle can produce static  
electricity. This can cause a fire if you are  
filling an ungrounded fuel container.  
WARNING: Do not dispose of fuel  
in the household refuse or the public  
sewage system. Use an authorized waste  
disposal facility.  
Use the following guidelines to avoid  
electrostatic charge build-up, which can  
produce a spark, when filling an  
ungrounded fuel container:  
When refueling the vehicle fuel tank from  
a fuel container, use the fuel filler funnel  
included with your vehicle. See Fuel Filler  
Funnel Location (page 187).  
Note: Do not use aftermarket funnels as  
they may not work with the capless fuel  
system and can damage it.  
•
Only use an approved fuel container to  
transfer fuel to your vehicle. Place the  
container on the ground when filling it.  
•
Do not fill a fuel container when it is  
inside your vehicle (including the cargo  
area).  
When refueling the vehicle fuel tank from  
a fuel container, do the following:  
1. Fully open the fuel filler door.  
•
•
Keep the fuel pump nozzle in contact  
2. Fully insert the fuel filler funnel into the  
with the fuel container when filling it.  
fuel filler inlet.  
Do not use a device that holds the fuel  
pump nozzle lever in the fill position.  
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Fuel and Refueling  
REFUELING - EXCLUDING:  
HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE  
(HEV)  
Refueling System Overview  
A
B
E157452  
3. Add fuel to your vehicle from the fuel  
container.  
C
E267248  
4. Remove the fuel filler funnel.  
5. Fully close the fuel filler door.  
6. Clean the fuel filler funnel and place it  
back in your vehicle or correctly dispose  
of it.  
A
B
C
Fuel filler door.  
Fuel tank filler valve.  
Fuel tank filler pipe.  
Note: Extra funnels can be purchased from  
an authorized dealer if you choose to  
dispose of the funnel.  
Your vehicle does not have a fuel tank filler  
cap.  
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Fuel and Refueling  
WARNING: The fuel system may  
be under pressure. If you hear a hissing  
sound near the fuel filler inlet, do not  
refuel until the sound stops. Otherwise,  
fuel may spray out, which could cause  
serious personal injury.  
WARNING: Do not pry open the  
fuel tank filler valve. This could damage  
the fuel system. Failure to follow this  
instruction could result in fire, personal  
injury or death.  
WARNING: Do not remove the fuel  
pump nozzle from its fully inserted  
position when refueling.  
E206911  
A
Left-hand side. To open the fuel  
filler door, press the center rear  
edge of the fuel filler door and  
then release.  
Right-hand side. To open the  
fuel filler door, press the center  
rear edge of the fuel filler door  
and then release.  
WARNING: Stop refueling when  
the fuel pump nozzle automatically  
shuts off for the first time. Failure to  
follow this will fill the expansion space  
in the fuel tank and could lead to fuel  
overflowing.  
B
WARNING: Do not overfill the fuel  
tank. The pressure in an overfilled tank  
may cause leakage and lead to fuel spray  
and fire.  
C
D
Left-hand side. Pull the rear of  
the fuel filler door to open it.  
Right-hand side. Pull the rear of  
the fuel filler door to open it.  
WARNING: Wait at least five  
seconds before removing the fuel pump  
nozzle to allow any residual fuel to drain  
into the fuel tank.  
Refueling Your Vehicle  
WARNING: When refueling always  
shut the engine off and never allow  
sparks or open flames near the fuel tank  
filler valve. Never smoke or use a cell  
phone while refueling. Fuel vapor is  
extremely hazardous under certain  
conditions. Avoid inhaling excess fumes.  
WARNING: Read and follow all the  
instructions on the pump island.  
1. Fully open the fuel filler door.  
2. Select the correct fuel pump nozzle for  
your vehicle.  
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Fuel and Refueling  
E337395  
5. Operate the fuel pump nozzle within  
the area shown.  
E139202  
3. Insert the fuel pump nozzle up to the  
first notch on the nozzle A. Keep the  
fuel pump nozzle resting on the fuel  
tank filler pipe.  
E119081  
6. When the nozzle shuts off, wait at least  
5 seconds, then slightly raise the fuel  
pump nozzle and slowly remove it.  
A
7. Fully close the fuel filler door.  
Do not attempt to start the engine if you  
have filled the fuel tank with incorrect fuel.  
Incorrect fuel use could cause damage that  
the vehicle Warranty may not cover. See  
your authorized dealer immediately.  
Refueling System Warning(IfEquipped)  
If the fuel tank filler valve does not fully  
close, a message could appear in the  
information display.  
B
E139203  
4. Hold the fuel pump nozzle in position  
B when refueling. Holding the fuel  
pump nozzle in position A can affect  
the flow of fuel and shut off the fuel  
pump nozzle before the fuel tank is full.  
Message  
Check Fuel Fill Inlet  
If the message appears, do the following:  
1. Stop your vehicle as soon as it is safe  
to do so and switch the engine off.  
2. Shift into park (P) or neutral (N).  
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Fuel and Refueling  
3. Apply the parking brake.  
4. Fully open the fuel filler door.  
WARNING: Do not pry open the  
fuel tank filler valve. This could damage  
the fuel system. Failure to follow this  
instruction could result in fire, personal  
injury or death.  
5. Check the fuel tank filler valve for any  
debris that may be restricting its  
movement.  
6. Remove any debris from the fuel tank  
filler valve.  
WARNING: Do not remove the fuel  
pump nozzle from its fully inserted  
position when refueling.  
7. Fully insert a fuel pump nozzle or the  
fuel filler funnel provided with your  
vehicle into the fuel filler pipe. See  
Fuel Filler Funnel Location (page  
187). This action should dislodge any  
debris that may be preventing the fuel  
tank filler valve from fully closing.  
WARNING: Stop refueling when  
the fuel pump nozzle automatically  
shuts off for the first time. Failure to  
follow this will fill the expansion space  
in the fuel tank and could lead to fuel  
overflowing.  
8. Remove the fuel pump nozzle or fuel  
filler funnel from the fuel filler pipe.  
9. Fully close the fuel filler door.  
WARNING: Do not overfill the fuel  
tank. The pressure in an overfilled tank  
may cause leakage and lead to fuel spray  
and fire.  
Note: The message may not immediately  
reset. If the message continues to appear  
and a warning lamp illuminates, see your  
authorized dealer as soon as possible.  
WARNING: Wait at least five  
seconds before removing the fuel pump  
nozzle to allow any residual fuel to drain  
into the fuel tank.  
REFUELING - HYBRID  
ELECTRIC VEHICLE (HEV)  
WARNING: Read and follow all the  
instructions on the pump island.  
WARNING: When refueling always  
shut the engine off and never allow  
sparks or open flames near the fuel tank  
filler valve. Never smoke or use a cell  
phone while refueling. Fuel vapor is  
extremely hazardous under certain  
conditions. Avoid inhaling excess fumes.  
1. When you stop your vehicle, shift into  
park (P) and switch the ignition off.  
WARNING: The fuel system may  
be under pressure. If you hear a hissing  
sound near the fuel filler inlet, do not  
refuel until the sound stops. Otherwise,  
fuel may spray out, which could cause  
serious personal injury.  
E293006  
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Fuel and Refueling  
2. Press the button on the left side of the  
4. Hold the fuel pump nozzle in position  
B when refueling. Holding the fuel  
pump nozzle in position A can affect  
the flow of fuel and shut off the fuel  
pump nozzle before the fuel tank is full.  
instrument panel next to the headlamp  
switch to open the fuel filler door. The  
fuel filler door can take up to 15  
seconds to open before you can insert  
a fuel filler nozzle.  
E206912  
5. Operate the fuel pump nozzle within  
the area shown.  
E139202  
E119081  
3. Insert the fuel pump nozzle up to the  
first notch on the nozzle A. Keep it  
resting on the cover of the fuel tank  
filler pipe opening.  
6. When the pump shuts off, wait 5  
seconds, then slowly lift and remove  
the nozzle.  
7. Fully close the fuel filler door.  
A
Note: To close the fuel filler door, press the  
center rear edge of the fuel filler door and  
then release.  
Complete the refueling process within 20  
minutes. If 20 minutes elapses, press the  
button on the left side of the instrument  
panel again. Fuel pump nozzle automatic  
shut off could occur if you do not press the  
button on the left side instrument panel.  
B
E139203  
System Warnings  
If the fuel filler door fails to open, an  
information message appears in the  
information display.  
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Fuel and Refueling  
Message  
Description and Action  
Refuel  
A warning message appears  
in the information display  
when the fuel system fails  
to depressurize or the fuel  
filler door fails to open. You  
may have to use the fuel  
filler door manual override  
lever.  
Error See  
Manual  
If the information message appears, do the  
following:  
1. Check the fuel filler door for anything  
that may be obstructing its movement,  
for example ice or snow.  
2. Remove any obstruction from the fuel  
filler door.  
3. Press the button on the driver door to  
open the fuel filler door.  
4. If the fuel filler door fails to open and  
the information message remains in  
the information display, use the fuel  
filler door manual override lever.  
Note: The manual override lever is in the  
Fuel Filler Door Manual Override  
Lever  
driver side rear wheel well area.  
2. Pull the manual override lever.  
3. Switch the ignition off.  
WARNING: The fuel system may  
be under pressure. If you hear a hissing  
sound near the fuel filler inlet, do not  
refuel until the sound stops. Otherwise,  
fuel may spray out, which could cause  
serious personal injury.  
4. Complete the refueling process within  
20 minutes.  
FUEL CONSUMPTION  
Advertised Capacity  
The advertised capacity is the maximum  
amount of fuel that you can add to the fuel  
tank when the fuel gauge indicates empty.  
See Capacities and Specifications  
(page 391).  
Note: The transmission must be in park (P)  
or neutral (N).  
When using the manual override lever do  
the following:  
1. Switch the ignition on.  
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Fuel and Refueling  
In addition, the fuel tank contains an empty  
ConditionsInfluencingFuelEfficiency  
reserve. The empty reserve is an  
unspecified amount of fuel that remains  
in the fuel tank when the fuel gauge  
indicates empty.  
•
Carrying unnecessary weight in your  
vehicle will reduce fuel efficiency.  
•
Avoid adding accessories that increase  
aerodynamic drag to your vehicle such  
as bug deflectors, car top carriers and  
ski or bike racks.  
Note: The amount of fuel in the empty  
reserve varies and should not be relied upon  
to increase driving range.  
•
•
•
Remove empty roof racks and keep  
windows shut at high speeds to reduce  
wind resistance and fuel use.  
Check and adjust tire pressure  
regularly. Under inflated tires will  
increase fuel consumption.  
Sudden acceleration and braking  
degrade fuel efficiency. Drive smoothly  
looking as far ahead as possible and  
avoid short trips when possible.  
Calculating Fuel Economy  
Your vehicle calculates fuel economy  
figures through the trip computer average  
fuel function. See Information Displays  
(page 112).  
The first 1,000 mi (1,600 km) of driving is  
the break-in period of the vehicle. A more  
accurate measurement is obtained after  
2,000–3,000 mi (3,200–4,800 km).  
•
•
Fuel efficiency degrades with lower  
1. Completely fill the fuel tank and record  
the initial odometer reading. See  
Refueling (page 192).  
temperatures.  
Comfort Features use additional energy  
and consume more fuel. Use AC and  
other comfort features only when  
necessary.  
2. Each time you fill the fuel tank, record  
the amount of fuel added.  
3. After at least three fill ups, fill the fuel  
tank and record the current odometer  
reading.  
•
Using fuel blended with alcohol may  
increase fuel consumption.  
4. Subtract your initial odometer reading  
from the current odometer reading.  
To calculate L/100 km (liters per 100  
kilometers) fuel consumption, multiply the  
liters used by 100, then divide by kilometers  
traveled. To calculate MPG (miles per  
gallon) fuel consumption, divide miles  
traveled by gallons used.  
Keep a record for at least one month and  
record the type of driving, for example city  
or highway. This provides an accurate  
estimate of your vehicle’s fuel economy  
under current driving conditions. Keeping  
records during summer and winter shows  
how temperature impacts fuel economy.  
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Engine Emission Control  
Tampering With a Noise Control  
EMISSION LAW  
System  
Federal laws prohibit the following acts:  
WARNING: Do not remove or alter  
•
Removal or rendering inoperative by  
any person other than for purposes of  
maintenance.  
the original equipment floor covering or  
insulation between it and the metal floor  
of the vehicle. The floor covering and  
insulation protect occupants of the  
vehicle from the engine and exhaust  
system heat and noise. On vehicles with  
no original equipment floor covering  
insulation, do not carry passengers in a  
manner that permits prolonged skin  
contact with the metal floor. Failure to  
follow these instructions may result in  
fire or personal injury.  
•
Repair or replacement of any device or  
element of the design incorporated into  
a new vehicle for the purpose of noise  
control prior to its sale or delivery to  
the ultimate purchaser or while it is in  
use.  
•
The use of the vehicle after any person  
removes or renders inoperative any  
device or element of the design.  
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency  
may presume to constitute tampering as  
follows:  
U.S. federal laws and certain state laws  
prohibit removing or rendering inoperative  
emission control system components.  
Similar federal or provincial laws may  
apply in Canada. We do not approve of any  
vehicle modification without first  
•
Removal of hood blanket, fender apron  
absorbers, fender apron barriers,  
underbody noise shields or acoustically  
absorptive material.  
determining applicable laws.  
•
Tampering or rendering inoperative the  
engine speed governor, to allow engine  
speed to exceed manufacturer  
specifications.  
Tampering with emissions  
control systems including  
related sensors or the Diesel  
Exhaust Fluid system can result in reduced  
engine power and the illumination of the  
service engine soon light.  
If the engine does not start, runs rough,  
experiences a decrease in engine  
performance, experiences excess fuel  
consumption or produces excessive  
exhaust smoke, check for the following:  
•
A plugged or disconnected air inlet  
system hose.  
•
•
A plugged engine air filter element.  
Water in the fuel filter and water  
separator.  
•
•
•
A clogged fuel filter.  
Contaminated fuel.  
Air in the fuel system, due to loose  
connections.  
•
•
An open or pinched sensor hose.  
Incorrect engine oil level.  
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Engine Emission Control  
•
•
Incorrect fuel for climatic conditions.  
Incorrect engine oil viscosity for  
WARNING: Exhaust leaks may  
result in entry of harmful and potentially  
lethal fumes into the passenger  
climactic conditions.  
Note: Some vehicles have a lifetime fuel  
filter that is integrated with the fuel tank.  
Regular maintenance or replacement is not  
needed.  
Note: If these checks do not help you  
correct the concern, have your vehicle  
checked as soon as possible.  
compartment. If you smell exhaust  
fumes inside your vehicle, have your  
vehicle inspected immediately. Do not  
drive if you smell exhaust fumes.  
Your vehicle has various emission control  
components and a catalytic converter that  
enables it to comply with applicable  
exhaust emission standards.  
To make sure that the catalytic converter  
and other emission control components  
continue to work properly:  
Noise Emissions Warranty,  
Prohibited Tampering Acts and  
Maintenance  
On January 1, 1978, Federal regulation  
became effective governing the noise  
emission on trucks over 10,000 lb  
(4,536 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating  
(GVWR). The preceding statements  
concerning prohibited tampering acts and  
maintenance, and the noise warranty  
found in the Warranty Guide, are  
•
•
•
Do not crank the engine for more than  
10 seconds at a time.  
Do not run the engine with a spark plug  
lead disconnected.  
Do not push-start or tow-start your  
vehicle. Use booster cables. See Jump  
Starting the Vehicle (page 300).  
applicable to complete chassis cabs over  
10,000 lb (4,536 kg) GVWR.  
•
•
Use only the specified fuel listed.  
Do not switch the ignition off when your  
CATALYTIC CONVERTER  
vehicle is moving.  
•
•
Avoid running out of fuel.  
Have the items listed in scheduled  
maintenance information performed  
according to the specified schedule.  
WARNING: Do not park, idle or  
drive your vehicle on dry grass or other  
dry ground cover. The emission system  
heats up the engine compartment and  
exhaust system, creating the risk of fire.  
Note: Resulting component damage may  
not be covered by the vehicle Warranty.  
The scheduled maintenance items listed  
in scheduled maintenance information are  
essential to the life and performance of  
your vehicle and to its emissions system.  
If you use anything other than Ford,  
Motorcraft or Ford-authorized parts for  
maintenance replacements or for service  
of components affecting emission control,  
such non-Ford parts should be equivalent  
to genuine Ford Motor Company parts in  
performance and durability.  
WARNING: The normal operating  
temperature of the exhaust system is  
very high. Never work around or attempt  
to repair any part of the exhaust system  
until it has cooled. Use special care when  
working around the catalytic converter.  
The catalytic converter heats up to a very  
high temperature after only a short  
period of engine operation and stays hot  
after the engine is switched off.  
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Engine Emission Control  
Illumination of the service engine soon  
1. Your vehicle has run out of fuel—the  
indicator, charging system warning light or  
the temperature warning light, fluid leaks,  
strange odors, smoke or loss of engine  
power could indicate that the emission  
control system is not working properly.  
engine may misfire or run poorly.  
2. Poor fuel quality or water in the  
fuel—the engine may misfire or run  
poorly.  
3. The fuel fill inlet may not have closed  
An improperly operating or damaged  
exhaust system may allow exhaust to  
enter the vehicle. Have a damaged or  
improperly operating exhaust system  
inspected and repaired immediately.  
properly. See Refueling (page 189).  
4. Driving through deep water—the  
electrical system may be wet.  
You can correct these temporary  
malfunctions by filling the fuel tank with  
good quality fuel, properly closing the fuel  
fill inlet or letting the electrical system dry  
out. After three driving cycles without these  
or any other temporary malfunctions  
present, the service engine soon indicator  
should stay off the next time you start the  
engine. A driving cycle consists of a cold  
engine startup followed by mixed city and  
highway driving. No additional vehicle  
service is required.  
If the service engine soon indicator remains  
on, have your vehicle serviced at the first  
available opportunity. Although some  
malfunctions detected by the OBD-II may  
not have symptoms that are apparent,  
continued driving with the service engine  
soon indicator on can result in increased  
emissions, lower fuel economy, reduced  
engine and transmission smoothness and  
lead to more costly repairs.  
Do not make any unauthorized changes to  
your vehicle or engine. By law, vehicle  
owners and anyone who manufactures,  
repairs, services, sells, leases, trades  
vehicles, or supervises a fleet of vehicles  
are not permitted to intentionally remove  
an emission control device or prevent it  
from working. Information about your  
vehicle’s emission system is on the Vehicle  
Emission Control Information Decal  
located on or near the engine. This decal  
also lists engine displacement.  
Please consult your warranty information  
for complete details.  
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II)  
Your vehicle has a computer known as the  
on-board diagnostics system (OBD-II) that  
monitors the engine’s emission control  
system. The system protects the  
environment by making sure that your  
vehicle continues to meet government  
emission standards. The OBD-II system  
also assists a service technician in properly  
servicing your vehicle.  
Readiness for Inspection and  
Maintenance (I/M) Testing  
Some state and provincial and local  
governments may have  
When the service engine soon  
indicator illuminates, the OBD-II  
system has detected a  
Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) programs  
to inspect the emission control equipment  
on your vehicle. Failure to pass this  
inspection could prevent you from getting  
a vehicle registration.  
malfunction. Temporary malfunctions may  
cause the service engine soon indicator to  
illuminate. Examples are:  
If the service engine soon  
indicator is on or the bulb does  
not work, your vehicle may need  
service. See On-Board Diagnostics.  
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Engine Emission Control  
Your vehicle may not pass the I/M test if  
the service engine soon indicator is on or  
not working properly (bulb is burned out),  
or if the OBD-II system has determined  
that some of the emission control systems  
have not been properly checked. In this  
case, the vehicle is not ready for I/M  
testing.  
If the vehicle’s engine or transmission has  
just been serviced, or the battery has  
recently run down or been replaced, the  
OBD-II system may indicate that the  
vehicle is not ready for I/M testing. To  
determine if the vehicle is ready for I/M  
testing, turn the ignition key to the on  
position for 15 seconds without cranking  
the engine. If the service engine soon  
indicator blinks eight times, it means that  
the vehicle is not ready for I/M testing; if  
the service engine soon indicator stays on  
solid, it means that your vehicle is ready  
for I/M testing.  
The OBD-II system checks the emission  
control system during normal driving. A  
complete check may take several days.  
If the vehicle is not ready for I/M testing,  
you can perform the following driving cycle  
consisting of mixed city and highway  
driving:  
1. 15 minutes of steady driving on an  
expressway or highway followed by 20  
minutes of stop-and-go driving with at  
least four 30-second idle periods.  
2. Allow your vehicle to sit for at least  
eight hours with the ignition off. Then,  
start the vehicle and complete the  
above driving cycle. The vehicle must  
warm up to its normal operating  
temperature. Once started, do not turn  
off the vehicle until the above driving  
cycle is complete.  
If the vehicle is still not ready for I/M  
testing, you need to repeat the above  
driving cycle.  
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High Voltage Battery(If Equipped)  
The high-voltage battery system is a  
GENERAL INFORMATION -  
HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE  
(HEV)  
high-voltage, lithium-ion battery system.  
The pack is located underneath the vehicle.  
The high voltage battery system uses an  
advanced active liquid heating and cooling  
system to regulate high voltage battery  
temperature and help maximize the life of  
the high voltage battery.  
WARNING: This battery pack  
should only be serviced by an authorized  
electric vehicle technician. Improper  
handling can result in personal injury or  
death.  
Note: The high-voltage battery does not  
require regular service maintenance.  
WARNING: Apply the parking  
brake, shift into park (P), switch the  
ignition off and remove the key before  
you open the hood or have any service  
or repair work completed. If you do not  
switch the ignition off, the engine could  
restart at any time. Failure to follow this  
instruction could result in personal injury  
or death.  
WARNING: Do not touch the  
electronic ignition system parts after you  
have switched the ignition on or when  
the engine is running. The system  
operates at high voltage. Failure to  
adhere to this warning could result in  
serious personal injury or death.  
WARNING: Keep your hands and  
clothing clear of the engine cooling fan.  
Your vehicle consists of various  
high-voltage components and wiring. All  
of the high-voltage power flows through  
specific wiring assemblies labeled as such  
or covered with a solid orange convolute,  
or orange striped tape, or both. Do not  
come in contact with these components.  
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Transmission  
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION  
WARNING: Always fully apply the  
parking brake and make sure you shift  
into park (P). Failure to follow this  
instruction could result in personal injury  
or death.  
WARNING: Do not apply the brake  
pedal and accelerator pedal  
simultaneously. Applying both pedals  
simultaneously for more than a few  
seconds will limit engine performance,  
which may result in difficulty maintaining  
speed in traffic and could lead to serious  
injury.  
E227917  
P
R
N
D
M
L
Park.  
Reverse.  
Neutral.  
Drive.  
Manual.  
Low  
Note: You may not be able to shift out of  
park (P) unless the intelligent access key is  
inside your vehicle.  
Understanding Your Transmission  
Selector Positions  
Your vehicle has an electronic transmission  
shifter. The transmission selector is on the  
center console.  
The instrument cluster displays the current  
gear.  
Note: Your vehicle could come with low (L)  
or manual (M) in the center of the selector  
depending on trim level.  
Park (P)  
With the transmission in park (P), your  
vehicle locks the transmission and  
prevents the wheels from turning. Always  
come to a complete stop before putting  
your vehicle into and out of park (P).  
When you switch the ignition off, your  
vehicle shifts into park (P). If you switch  
the ignition off while your vehicle is moving,  
the transmission first shifts into neutral (N)  
until it reaches a speed less than 3 mph  
(5 km/h) and then shifts into park (P).  
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Transmission  
The electric parking brake may apply when  
Manual Mode (M) - Vehicles with  
Paddle Shifters  
you shift to park (P) without the brake  
pedal fully pressed. The electric parking  
brake applies when you shift to park (P)  
on large slopes. The electric parking brake  
releases with the drive away release  
function or manually as described in the  
Releasing the Electric Parking Brake  
section. See Electric Parking Brake  
(page 215).  
With the transmission selector in manual  
(M), the driver can change gears up or  
down. After selecting the Manual (M)  
button while the transmission range  
selector is in Drive (D) position you now  
have control of selecting the gear you  
desire using shift buttons on the steering  
wheel. See Understanding your SelectShift  
Automatic™ transmission later in this  
section.  
Note: A warning tone sounds if you open  
the driver door and you have not shifted the  
transmission selector to park (P).  
To exit manual mode, push the manual  
(M) button on your transmission selector.  
Reverse (R)  
With the transmission selector in reverse  
(R), your vehicle moves backward. Always  
come to a complete stop before shifting  
into and out of reverse (R).  
Low (L) - Vehicles without Paddle  
Shifters  
With the transmission selector in low (L),  
your vehicle provides maximum engine  
braking. You can shift the transmission into  
low (L) at any vehicle speed. The intent is  
not for use under extended or normal  
driving conditions, and results in lower fuel  
economy.  
Neutral (N)  
With the transmission selector in neutral  
(N), you can start your vehicle and it is free  
to roll. Hold the brake pedal down when in  
this position.  
Automatic Return to Park  
Note: This feature does not operate when  
your vehicle is in Stay in Neutral mode or  
neutral tow.  
Drive (D)  
Drive (D) is the normal driving position for  
the best fuel economy and smoothness.  
Shift the transmission selector to drive (D)  
to allow your vehicle to move forward and  
shift automatically through the forward  
gears.  
The transmission shifts to the appropriate  
gear for optimum performance based on  
ambient temperature, road slope, vehicle  
load and your input.  
The transmission returns to park (P) if any  
of the following occur:  
•
•
You switch the ignition off.  
Your seatbelt is not fastened, and you  
open the driver door.  
•
The driver door is open, and you  
unfasten your seatbelt.  
If you switch the ignition off when your  
vehicle is moving, your vehicle shifts into  
neutral (N) until it slows down enough to  
shift into park (P).  
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Transmission  
Note: This feature may not work properly  
Note: Stay in Neutral Mode confirmation  
message appears in the information display  
when your vehicle has entered Stay in  
Neutral mode and the neutral (N) button  
on the transmission selector slowly blinks.  
To exit Stay in Neutral mode, press the  
brake pedal and shift to park (P) or start  
the engine and apply brakes to shift to  
another driving range, for example drive  
(D) or reverse (R).  
if the door ajar switch is malfunctioning. If  
your door ajar indicator does not illuminate  
when you open the driver door, or the  
indicator illuminates with the driver door  
closed, or Transmission not in Park cluster  
message still displays when the shifter has  
already selected reverse (R), neutral (N), or  
drive (D) and driver door remains closed,  
see your authorized dealer.  
Stay in Neutral Mode  
Tow Mode (If Equipped)  
Note: Stay in neutral mode is a temporary  
vehicle state that works with the engine  
being in the running or OFF state. Once in  
this mode, sufficient battery voltage must  
be maintained or your vehicle returns to park  
if the feature is left active for extended time  
when engine is OFF.  
Failure to follow this instruction could  
result in vehicle damage not covered by  
the vehicle Warranty.  
Note: When entering an automatic car  
wash, always enter the Stay in Neutral  
Mode. Stay in Neutral Mode must be  
enabled, if you are exiting the vehicle before  
the car wash.  
Extended usage of Stay in Neutral mode  
may result in a battery voltage reduction  
to level where the vehicle may no longer  
start.  
To activate tow mode, use the  
drive mode switch on the center  
console. See Selecting a Drive  
Mode (page 278).  
The indicator light illuminates and a  
message displays in the instrument cluster  
when the system becomes active. Select  
a different mode to turn the system off.  
The Tow Mode Feature:  
•
Moves upshifts to higher engine speeds  
to reduce the frequency of  
transmission shifting.  
•
Provides engine braking in all forward  
gears, which slows your vehicle and  
assist you in controlling your vehicle  
when descending a grade.  
•
Depending on driving conditions and  
load conditions, it may downshift the  
transmission, slow your vehicle and  
control your vehicle speed when  
descending a hill, without pressing the  
accelerator pedal. The amount of  
downshift braking provided varies  
based upon the amount you press the  
brake pedal.  
Do not tow your vehicle in this mode.  
With the transmission selector in Stay in  
Neutral Mode, you can start your vehicle  
and it is free to roll.  
To enter Stay in Neutral mode, do the  
following:  
1. Bring your vehicle to a complete stop.  
2. Shift into neutral (N).  
3. Press the manual (M) or low (L) button  
within five seconds after shifting to  
neutral (N).  
The tow mode feature improves  
transmission operation when towing a  
trailer or a heavy load. All transmission  
gear ranges are available when using tow  
mode.  
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Transmission  
SelectShift in drive (D):  
SelectShift Automatic™  
Transmission (If Equipped)  
•
Provides a temporary manual mode  
for performing more demanding  
maneuvers with extra control of gear  
selection, for example, when towing or  
overtaking. This mode holds a selected  
gear for a temporary period of time  
dependent on driver inputs, for  
example, steering or accelerator pedal  
input.  
Your vehicle has a SelectShift Automatic  
transmission, which gives you the ability  
to change gears up or down, without a  
clutch, as preferred.  
To prevent the engine from running at too  
low an RPM, which may cause it to stall,  
SelectShift still automatically makes some  
downshifts if it has determined that you  
have not downshifted in time. Although  
SelectShift makes some downshifts for  
you, it still allows you to downshift at any  
time if SelectShift determines that  
damage to the engine from over-revving  
does not occur.  
•
You can exit SelectShift by holding the  
(+) for two seconds or by driving  
normally.  
SelectShift in manual (M):  
•
Provides a permanent manual gear  
selection with full control of gear  
selection.  
Note: Engine damage may occur if you  
maintain excessive engine revving without  
shifting.  
•
You can exit SelectShift by pushing the  
manual (M) button plus holding the  
(+). This will shift you into the correct  
gear.  
Note: Vehicles may have either steering  
wheel controls or gearshift lever controls.  
The instrument cluster displays your  
currently selected gear. If you request an  
unavailable gear due to vehicle conditions,  
for example, low speed, too high engine  
speed for requested gear selection, the  
current gear flashes three times.  
Note: At full accelerator pedal travel, the  
transmission automatically downshifts for  
maximum performance.  
SelectShift could upshift if the engine  
reaches its RPM limit. It may also be  
upshifted by pressing the + button on the  
steering wheel or shift lever control.  
Pull the + paddle on the steering wheel  
or push the + button on the gearshift  
lever to activate SelectShift.  
•
•
Pull the right paddle (+) to upshift.  
Pull the left paddle (–) to downshift.  
Manual Park Release (MPR)  
WARNING: When doing this  
procedure, you need to take the  
transmission out of park (P) which  
means your vehicle can roll freely. To  
avoid unwanted vehicle movement,  
always fully apply the parking brake prior  
to doing this procedure. Use wheels  
chocks if appropriate.  
E144821  
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Transmission  
3. Turn the vehicle ignition on without  
starting the vehicle by pressing the  
ignition push to start without pressing  
the brake.  
WARNING: If the parking brake is  
fully released, but the brake warning  
lamp remains illuminated, the brakes  
may not be working properly. Have your  
vehicle checked as soon as possible.  
4. Once in the driver seat, fully apply the  
brake pedal and hold. Do not release.  
WARNING: Do not drive your  
vehicle until you verify that the  
stoplamps are working.  
Use the manual park release to move your  
transmission from the park (P) position in  
the event of an electrical malfunction or  
emergency.  
E317360  
Activating the Manual Park Release  
Cable  
Note: A: 2.0 in (50 mm) B: 0.1 in (3.3 mm)  
5. Insert a screwdriver type tool, see  
description, or your car key into the  
Manual Park Release (MPR) lever slot.  
Pull the manual park release lever  
toward the rear until the detent in the  
slot pops up, against the tool or key.  
Allow full upward travel of detent,  
approximately 0.28 in (7 mm) in the  
park override mode (Click). You can  
remove the tool. If done correctly, a  
message on the instrument cluster  
displays Park Not Available,  
Transmission Not in Park, or Shift  
System Fault.  
6. With your foot still fully applied on the  
brake pedal, disengage the parking  
brake. See Electric Parking Brake  
(page 215).  
E292050  
1. Apply the parking brake. See Electric  
Parking Brake (page 215).  
Note: If the vehicle battery is dead, for  
example, no electrical power is available,  
you require an external power to apply the  
parking brake.  
7. Your vehicle remains in neutral (N) for  
emergency towing purposes.  
2. Using the key or a flat head screwdriver,  
maximum length 5 in (120 mm), as  
shown in the picture, carefully open the  
access cover under the arm rest  
console. See Keys and Remote  
Controls (page 57).  
8. Switch off the ignition.  
9. Once safe, and there is no risk of your  
vehicle rolling, disconnect the negative  
(black) battery cable from the battery.  
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Transmission  
7. If the instrument cluster does not  
display the park (P) position or there  
is a message stating park (P) is not  
available, transmission not in park (P)  
or a shift system fault, apply the  
parking brake before exiting your  
vehicle and contact an authorized  
dealer for service.  
If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck in Mud  
or Snow  
E297270  
Note: Do not rock the vehicle if the engine  
is not at normal operating temperature or  
damage to the transmission may occur.  
Note: Do not rock the vehicle for more than  
a minute or damage to the transmission and  
tires may occur, or the engine may overheat.  
Returning Your Vehicle to Normal  
Mode  
1. Reconnect the negative (black) battery  
cable to the battery.  
If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow,  
rock it out by shifting between forward and  
reverse gears, stopping between shifts in  
a steady pattern. Press lightly on the  
accelerator in each gear.  
2. Apply the parking brake. See Electric  
Parking Brake (page 215).  
Note: If the vehicle battery is dead, for  
example, no electrical power is available,  
you require an external power to apply the  
parking brake.  
3. Fully apply the brake pedal and hold,  
do not release.  
4. Insert the screwdriver tool or car key  
fully into the manual park release lever  
slot. Push the tool downwards. The  
system detent releases and the manual  
park release lever moves forward,  
allowing the vehicle to go back into  
park (P). Remove the tool or car key.  
5. Install the access cover.  
6. With your foot fully applied on the  
brake pedal, start your vehicle. Confirm  
that your vehicle is in the park (P)  
position and that the instrument  
cluster indicates park (P).  
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Four-Wheel Drive(If Equipped)  
Note: A warning message displays in the  
PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION  
information display when a 4WD system  
fault is present. See Information  
This system is a proactive system. It has  
the ability to anticipate wheel slip and  
transfer torque to the front wheels before  
slip occurs. Even when wheel slip is not  
present, the system is continuously  
Messages (page 121). A 4WD system fault  
causes the 4WD system to default to  
rear-wheel drive only mode. When this  
warning message is displayed, have your  
vehicle serviced at an authorized dealer.  
adjusting to the torque distribution, in an  
attempt to improve straight line and  
cornering behavior, both on and off road.  
Note: A warning message displays in the  
information display if the 4WD system  
overheats. See Information Messages  
(page 121). This condition could occur if the  
vehicle is operated in extreme conditions  
with excessive wheel slip, such as deep  
sand. To resume normal 4WD function as  
soon as possible, stop the vehicle in a safe  
location and stop the engine for at least 10  
minutes. After the engine is restarted and  
the 4WD system is adequately cooled, the  
warning message turns off and normal 4WD  
function returns.  
The system automatically turns on every  
time you switch the ignition on.  
If any component requires maintenance,  
a message appears in the information  
display.  
USING FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE  
WARNING: Vehicles with a higher  
center of gravity (utility and four-wheel  
drive vehicles) handle differently than  
vehicles with a lower center of gravity  
(passenger cars). Avoid sharp turns,  
excessive speed and abrupt steering in  
these vehicles. Failure to drive cautiously  
increases the risk of losing control of your  
vehicle, vehicle rollover, personal injury  
and death.  
OperatingFour-WheelDrive(4WD)  
Vehicles With Spare Tires  
Do not use a different size spare tire other  
than the tire provided. If the mini-spare tire  
is installed, the 4WD system will disable  
and enter rear-wheel drive only mode to  
protect driveline components. Some  
limited 4WD traction could be provided if  
the mini-spare is installed on one of the  
front wheels. If you are in driving conditions  
where limited 4WD traction is needed  
while the mini-spare is installed, it is  
recommended the mini-spare be installed  
on the front axle. See Information  
Messages (page 121).  
The intelligent 4WD system continuously  
monitors vehicle conditions and adjusts  
the power distribution between the front  
and rear wheels. It combines transparent  
all-surface operation with highly capable  
four-wheel drive.  
If the mini-spare is installed, this condition  
is indicated by a warning in the information  
display. If there is a warning message in  
the information display from using the  
spare tire, this indicator should turn off  
after reinstalling or replacing the normal  
road tire and cycling the ignition off and  
on. We recommended reinstalling or  
The 4WD system is always active and  
requires no driver input. It is capable of  
handling all road conditions including  
street and highway driving as well as  
off-road and winter driving. You can  
optimize more 4WD control by selecting  
different drive modes. See Selecting a  
Drive Mode (page 278).  
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Four-Wheel Drive(If Equipped)  
replacing the normal road tire as soon as  
Major dissimilar tire sizes between the front  
and rear axles (for example, 17 inch low  
profile tires on the front axle and 22 inch  
high profile tires on the rear axle) could  
cause the 4WD system to stop functioning  
and default to rear-wheel drive or damage  
the 4WD system.  
possible. Major dissimilar tire sizes  
between the front and rear axles could  
cause the 4WD system to stop functioning  
and default to rear-wheel drive or damage  
the 4WD system.  
The slip response system could activate if  
the mini spare is installed on the front  
wheels. If the mini spare was installed on  
the rear wheels the slip response system  
will fully disable. In situations where there  
is a wintery mix or an off road situation,  
and you need to use a mini spare, you must  
install the mini spare in the front tire  
position and move a full size tire to the rear  
tire position for the slip response system  
to function.  
For optimum 4WD Performance, it is  
recommended to follow the tire rotation  
maintenance schedule. To avoid potential  
4WD malfunction or 4WD system damage,  
it is recommended to replace all four tires  
rather than mixing significantly worn tires  
with new tires. For example, using 3 worn  
tread tires and 1 new tread tire all of the  
same original tire size/brand, can be  
tolerated by the 4WD system as long as  
the worn tires still have usable tread depth.  
OperatingFour-Wheeldrive(4WD)  
Vehicles with Mismatched Tires  
How Your Vehicle Differs from  
Other Vehicles  
Truck and utility vehicles can differ from  
some other vehicles. Your vehicle could be  
higher to allow it to travel over rough  
terrain without getting hung up or  
WARNING: Only use replacement  
tires and wheels that are the same size,  
load index, speed rating and type (such  
as P-metric versus LT-metric or  
damaging underbody components.  
all-season versus all-terrain) as those  
originally provided by Ford. The  
The differences that make your vehicle so  
versatile also make it handle differently  
than an ordinary passenger car.  
recommended tire and wheel size may  
be found on either the Safety  
Compliance Certification Label (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), or the Tire Label which  
is located on the B-Pillar or edge of the  
driver's door. If this information is not  
found on these labels, then you should  
contact your authorized dealer as soon  
as possible. Use of any tire or wheel not  
recommended by Ford can affect the  
safety and performance of your vehicle,  
which could result in an increased risk of  
loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover,  
personal injury and death.  
Maintain steering wheel control at all  
times, especially in rough terrain. Since  
sudden changes in terrain can result in  
abrupt steering wheel motion, make sure  
you grip the steering wheel from the  
outside. Do not grip the spokes.  
Drive cautiously to avoid vehicle damage  
from concealed objects such as rocks and  
stumps.  
You should either know the terrain or  
examine maps of the area before driving.  
Map out your route before driving in the  
area. To maintain steering and braking  
control of your vehicle, you must have all  
four wheels on the ground and they must  
be rolling, not sliding or spinning.  
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Four-Wheel Drive(If Equipped)  
If Your Vehicle Goes Off the Edge of the  
Pavement  
Driving in Special Conditions With  
Four-Wheel drive (4WD)  
•
If your vehicle goes off the edge of the  
Note: Use of the 4WD system in slippery,  
deep snow, and sand drive modes on dry  
surfaces could produce some vibration,  
driveline bind up, or excessive tire wear as  
these drive modes are intended for slippery  
and loose surfaces.  
Note: The design of 4WD vehicles are 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.  
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 could be safer to stay on the apron  
or shoulder of the road and slow down  
gradually before returning to the  
pavement. You could lose control if you  
do not slow down or if you turn the  
steering wheel too sharply or abruptly.  
Basic Operating Principles in Special  
Conditions  
It often could be less risky to strike  
small objects, such as highway  
•
•
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.  
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  
WARNING: Apply the parking  
brake, shift into park (P), switch the  
ignition off and remove the key before  
you leave your vehicle. Failure to follow  
this instruction could result in personal  
injury or death.  
WARNING: If the parking brake is  
fully released, but the brake warning  
lamp remains illuminated, the brakes  
may not be working properly. Have your  
vehicle checked as soon as possible.  
WARNING: Do not spin the wheels  
at over 34 mph (55 km/h). The tires may  
fail and injure a passenger or bystander.  
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Four-Wheel Drive(If Equipped)  
If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow  
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 is a change in the way  
the vehicle responds to a maneuver  
(steering, acceleration or braking).  
Again, avoid these abrupt inputs.  
you can rock it out by shifting between  
forward and reverse gears, stopping  
between shifts, in a steady pattern. Press  
lightly on the accelerator in each gear.  
If your vehicle comes with AdvanceTrac®  
with Roll Stability Control™, it could be  
beneficial to disengage the AdvanceTrac®  
with Roll Stability Control™ system while  
attempting to rock the vehicle.  
Note: Do not rock the vehicle if the engine  
is not at normal operating temperature or  
damage to the transmission could occur.  
Note: Do not rock the vehicle for more than  
a few minutes or damage to the  
transmission and tires could occur or the  
engine could overheat.  
•
•
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.  
Avoid excessive speed because vehicle  
momentum can work against you and  
cause the vehicle to become stuck to the  
point that assistance could be required  
from another vehicle. Remember, you  
could be able to back out the way you  
came if you proceed with caution.  
Emergency Maneuvers  
•
In an unavoidable emergency situation  
where a sudden sharp turn must be  
made, remember to avoid  
"over-driving" your vehicle (for  
example, turn the steering wheel only  
as rapidly and as far as required to  
avoid the emergency). Excessive  
steering can 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  
Mud and Water  
If you must drive through high water, drive  
slowly. Traction or brake capability could  
be limited.  
Note: Driving through deep water could  
damage your vehicle.  
When driving through water, determine the  
depth; avoid water higher than the bottom  
of the hubs (if possible) and proceed  
slowly. If the ignition system gets wet, the  
vehicle could stall.  
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Four-Wheel Drive(If Equipped)  
Once through water, always try the brakes.  
Note: Avoid driving crosswise or turning on  
steep slopes or hills. A danger lies in losing  
traction, slipping sideways and possibly  
rolling over. Whenever driving on a hill,  
determine beforehand the route you will  
use. Do not drive over the crest of a hill  
without seeing what conditions are on the  
other side. Do not drive in reverse over a hill  
without the aid of an observer.  
When climbing a steep slope or hill, start  
in a lower gear rather than downshifting to  
a lower gear from a higher gear once the  
ascent has started. This reduces strain on  
the engine and the possibility of stalling.  
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 4WD 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.  
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.  
If you do stall out, do not try to turn around  
because you might roll over. It is better to  
back down to a safe location.  
Apply just enough power to the wheels to  
climb the hill. Too much power can cause  
the tires to slip, spin or lose traction,  
resulting in loss of vehicle control.  
E143950  
“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.”  
E143949  
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,  
Driving on Hilly or Sloping Terrain  
Although natural obstacles could 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.  
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.  
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Four-Wheel Drive(If Equipped)  
Your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, therefore  
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 comes  
with a four wheel (ABS), do not “pump”  
the brakes. See Hints on Driving With  
Anti-Lock Brakes (page 215).  
apply the brakes steadily. Do not “pump”  
the brakes.  
Driving on Snow and Ice  
WARNING: If you are driving in  
slippery conditions that require tire  
chains or cables, then it is critical that  
you drive cautiously. Keep speeds down,  
allow for longer stopping distances and  
avoid aggressive steering to reduce the  
chances of a loss of vehicle control  
which can lead to serious injury or death.  
If the rear end of your vehicle slides while  
cornering, steer in the direction of the  
slide until you regain control of your  
vehicle.  
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, we  
strongly recommend that you do not make  
modifications such as adding or removing  
parts (such as lowering kits or stabilizer  
bars) or by using replacement parts not  
equivalent to the original factory  
Note: Excessive tire slippage can cause  
driveline damage.  
equipment.  
4WD 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.  
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. We strongly recommend that  
caution be used with any vehicle equipped  
with a high load or device (such as ladder  
or luggage racks).  
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 a  
4WD vehicle could accelerate better than  
a two-wheel drive vehicle in snow and ice,  
it will not stop any faster, because as in  
other vehicles, braking occurs at all four  
wheels. Do not become overconfident as  
to road conditions.  
Failure to maintain your vehicle properly  
could 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.  
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Rear Axle  
LIMITED SLIP DIFFERENTIAL  
(IF EQUIPPED)  
This axle provides added traction on  
slippery surfaces, particularly when one  
wheel is on a poor traction surface. Under  
normal conditions, the limited-slip axle  
functions like a standard rear axle. The axle  
may exhibit a slight noise or vibration  
during tight turns with low vehicle speed.  
This is normal behavior and indicates the  
axle is working.  
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Brakes  
Anti-lock Brake System  
This system helps you maintain steering  
control during emergency stops by keeping  
the brakes from locking.  
GENERAL INFORMATION  
Note: 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 an  
authorized dealer should check them. If the  
vehicle has continuous vibration or shudder  
in the steering wheel while braking, an  
authorized dealer should check your vehicle.  
Note: Brake dust may accumulate on the  
wheels, even under normal driving  
conditions. Some dust is inevitable as the  
brakes wear and does not contribute to  
brake noise. See Cleaning the Wheels  
(page 348).  
This lamp momentarily  
illuminates when you switch the  
ignition on or apply the parking  
brake. If the light does not illuminate  
during start up, remains on or flashes,  
except when you switch the ignition on or  
apply the parking brake, the anti-lock  
braking system may be disabled. Have the  
system checked by an authorized dealer.  
If the anti-lock brake system is disabled,  
normal braking is still effective. See  
Warning Lamps and Indicators (page  
107).  
Wet brakes result in reduced braking  
efficiency. Gently press the brake pedal a  
few times when driving from a car wash or  
standing water to dry the brakes.  
Note: Indicators vary depending on region.  
This lamp also illuminates  
momentarily when you switch  
E
Brake Over Accelerator  
In the event the accelerator pedal  
the ignition on or apply the  
parking brake to confirm the  
lamp is working. If it does not  
becomes stuck or entrapped, apply steady  
and firm pressure to the brake pedal to  
slow the vehicle and reduce engine power.  
If you experience this condition, apply the  
brakes and bring your vehicle to a safe  
stop. Switch the engine off, move the  
transmission to park (P) and apply the  
parking brake. Inspect the accelerator  
pedal and the area around it for any items  
or debris that may be obstructing its  
movement. If none are found and the  
condition persists, have your vehicle towed  
to the nearest authorized dealer.  
illuminate when you switch the  
ignition on, apply the parking brake, or if it  
begins to flash at any time, have the  
system checked by an authorized dealer.  
If the brake warning lamp illuminates with  
the parking brake released, have the  
system checked immediately.  
Regenerative Braking System  
This feature is used to simulate the engine  
braking of an internal combustion engine  
and assist the standard brake system while  
recovering some of the energy of motion  
and storing it in the battery to improve fuel  
economy. The standard brake system is  
designed to fully stop the car if  
Emergency Brake Assist  
Emergency brake assist detects when you  
brake heavily by measuring the rate at  
which you press the brake pedal. It  
provides maximum braking efficiency as  
long as you press the pedal. Emergency  
brake assist can reduce stopping distances  
in critical situations.  
regenerative braking is not available.  
During regenerative braking, the motor is  
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Brakes  
spun as a generator to create electrical  
current. This recharges the battery and  
slows the vehicle. In effect, once the  
ELECTRIC PARKING BRAKE  
accelerator pedal is released, the motor  
changes from an energy user to an energy  
producer.  
WARNING: Always fully apply the  
parking brake and make sure you shift  
into park (P). Failure to follow this  
instruction could result in personal injury  
or death.  
When you release the accelerator pedal or  
press the brake pedal, the brake controller  
automatically detects the amount of  
deceleration requested and optimizes how  
much of the deceleration will be produced  
by regenerative braking. The remaining  
portion is generated by standard friction  
braking. When the battery is almost fully  
charged, the amount of regenerative  
braking is limited to avoid overcharging,  
and the requested deceleration is  
produced by standard friction braking  
alone.  
Regenerative braking does not take the  
place of the standard friction brakes; it only  
assists them. Regenerative braking has  
also been designed to interact with the  
anti-lock brake system. Regenerative  
braking is disabled when the anti-lock  
brake system is activated or the battery is  
fully charged.  
WARNING: If you drive extended  
distances with the parking brake applied,  
you could cause damage to the brake  
system.  
WARNING: The electric parking  
brake does not operate if the vehicle  
battery is running out of charge.  
Your vehicle has an electric parking brake.  
You operate it with a switch instead of a  
lever. The switch is on the center console  
or to the left-hand side of the steering  
wheel, on the lower part of the instrument  
panel.  
Note: The electric parking brake makes  
noises during operation. This is normal.  
Applying the Electric Parking  
Brake  
HINTS ON DRIVING WITH  
ANTI-LOCK BRAKES  
Pull the switch upward.  
The anti-lock braking system does not  
The red warning lamp flashes  
during operation and illuminates  
eliminate the risks when:  
•
You drive too closely to the vehicle in  
front of you.  
when the parking brake is  
applied.  
•
•
•
Your vehicle is hydroplaning.  
You take corners too fast.  
The road surface is poor.  
Note: It remains illuminated for a short  
period of time after you switch the ignition  
off.  
Note: If the system activates, the brake  
pedal may pulse and may travel further.  
Maintain pressure on the brake pedal. You  
may also hear a noise from the system. This  
is normal.  
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If it continues to flash or does not  
illuminate, the system has malfunctioned.  
Have your vehicle checked as soon as  
possible.  
If it remains illuminated or flashes, the  
system has malfunctioned. Have your  
vehicle checked as soon as possible.  
Note: You can apply the electric parking  
brake when the ignition is off.  
Pulling Away on a Hill When Towing a  
Note: The electric parking brake could  
automatically apply when you shift into park  
(P). See Transmission (page 201).  
Trailer  
Press and hold the brake pedal.  
Applying the Electric Parking Brake in  
Pull the switch upward and hold  
an Emergency  
it.  
Note: Do not apply the electric parking  
brake when your vehicle is moving, except  
in an emergency. If you repeatedly use the  
electric parking brake to slow or stop your  
vehicle, you could cause damage to the  
brake system.  
Shift into gear.  
Press the accelerator pedal until engine  
has developed sufficient torque to prevent  
your vehicle from rolling down the hill.  
Release the switch and pull  
You can use the electric parking brake to  
away in a normal manner.  
slow or stop your vehicle in an emergency.  
Pull the switch upward and hold  
Automatically Releasing the  
Electric Parking Brake  
Close the driver door.  
Shift into gear.  
Press the accelerator pedal and pull away  
in a normal manner.  
it.  
The red warning lamp  
illuminates, a tone sounds and  
the stoplamps turn on.  
The red warning lamp turns off.  
The electric parking brake continues to  
slow your vehicle down unless you release  
the switch.  
E
Manually Releasing the Electric  
If it remains illuminated or flashes, the  
electric parking brake has not released.  
Manually release the parking brake.  
Parking Brake  
Switch the ignition on.  
Press and hold the brake pedal.  
Push the switch downward.  
The red warning lamp turns off.  
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developed sufficient torque to prevent your  
Releasing the Electric Parking  
Brake if the Vehicle Battery is  
Running Out of Charge  
Connect a booster battery to the vehicle  
battery to release the electric parking brake  
if the vehicle battery is running out of  
charge. See Jump Starting the Vehicle  
(page 300).  
vehicle from rolling down the slope. This  
is an advantage when pulling away on a  
slope, for example from a car park ramp,  
traffic lights or when reversing uphill into  
a parking space.  
The system activates on any slope that  
causes your vehicle to roll.  
Note: There is no warning light to indicate  
the system is either on or off.  
HILL START ASSIST  
Using Hill Start Assist  
1. Press the brake pedal to bring your  
vehicle to a complete standstill. Keep  
the brake pedal pressed and shift into  
first gear when facing uphill or reverse  
(R) when facing downhill.  
WARNING: The system does not  
replace the parking brake. When you  
leave your vehicle, always apply the  
parking brake.  
WARNING: You must remain in  
your vehicle when the system turns on.  
At all times, you are responsible for  
controlling your vehicle, supervising the  
system and intervening, if required.  
Failure to take care may result in the loss  
of control of your vehicle, serious  
personal injury or death.  
2. If the sensors detect that your vehicle  
is on a slope, the system activates  
automatically.  
3. When you remove your foot from the  
brake pedal, your vehicle remains on  
the slope without rolling away for  
about two to three seconds. This hold  
time automatically extends if you are  
in the process of driving off.  
4. Drive off in the normal manner. The  
system releases the brakes  
automatically.  
Note: When you remove your foot from the  
brake pedal and press the pedal again when  
the system is active, you will experience  
significantly reduced brake pedal travel. This  
is normal.  
WARNING: The system will turn  
off if a malfunction is apparent or if you  
rev the engine excessively. Failure to take  
care may result in the loss of control of  
your vehicle, serious personal injury or  
death.  
The system makes it easier to pull away  
when your vehicle is on a slope without the  
need to use the parking brake.  
Switching the System On and Off  
Vehicles with Manual Transmission  
You can switch this feature on or off in the  
information display. The system  
remembers the last setting when you start  
your vehicle.  
When the system is active, your vehicle  
remains stationary on the slope for two to  
three seconds after you release the brake  
pedal. This allows time to move your foot  
from the brake to the accelerator pedal.  
The system releases the brakes  
automatically once the engine has  
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Brakes  
Vehicles with Automatic Transmission  
You cannot turn the system on or off.  
When you switch the ignition on, the  
system automatically turns on.  
Make sure you switch the system off before  
towing with your vehicle or before using an  
automatic car wash.  
Using Auto Hold  
1. Use the brakes to bring your vehicle to  
a complete stop. The auto hold active  
indicator illuminates in the information  
display.  
2. Release the brake pedal. The system  
holds your vehicle at a standstill. The  
auto hold active indicator remains  
illuminated in the information display.  
AUTO HOLD  
WARNING: The system does not  
replace the parking brake. When you  
leave your vehicle, always apply the  
parking brake.  
Note: The system only activates if you  
apply enough brake pressure. If your vehicle  
is on a steep slope, you might need to press  
the brake pedal harder before the system  
activates.  
Note: Under certain conditions, the system  
could apply the electric parking brake. The  
brake system warning lamp illuminates. The  
electric parking brake releases when you  
press the accelerator pedal. See Electric  
Parking Brake (page 215).  
WARNING: You must remain in  
your vehicle when the system turns on.  
At all times, you are responsible for  
controlling your vehicle, supervising the  
system and intervening, if required.  
Failure to take care may result in the loss  
of control of your vehicle, serious  
personal injury or death.  
WARNING: The system turns off if  
there is a malfunction or if you  
excessively rev the engine.  
Note: If auto-start-stop turns off the  
engine, auto hold remains active.  
The system is designed to apply the brakes  
to hold your vehicle at a standstill after you  
stop your vehicle and release the brake  
pedal. This could be beneficial in certain  
situations, for example when waiting on a  
hill or in traffic.  
Note: The system deactivates if you shift  
into reverse (R) and press the brake pedal.  
3. Pull away in the normal manner. The  
system releases the brakes and the  
auto hold active indicator turns off.  
Switching Auto Hold On and Off  
Auto Hold Indicator  
The auto hold indicator illuminates in the  
information display when the system is on  
and is either active or unavailable.  
Press the button on the center  
console. The button illuminates  
when you switch the system on.  
Note: You can only switch the system on  
after you close the driver door, and start the  
engine.  
Illuminates when the system is  
active. Your vehicle remains  
stationary after you release the  
brake pedal.  
Note: The system remembers the last  
setting when you start your vehicle.  
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Brakes  
Illuminates when the system is  
on but unavailable to hold your  
vehicle at a standstill.  
The system could be unavailable when any  
of the following occur:  
•
•
•
•
During an active park assist maneuver.  
Your vehicle is in stay in neutral mode.  
The driver door is open.  
You shift into reverse (R) before the  
system is active.  
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Reverse Braking Assist(If Equipped)  
WHAT IS REVERSE BRAKING  
WARNING: The system may not  
operate properly during severe weather  
conditions, for example snow, ice, heavy  
rain and spray. Always drive with due  
care and attention. Failure to take care  
may result in a crash.  
ASSIST  
WARNING: Traffic control systems,  
inclement weather, air brakes, external  
motors and fans may affect the correct  
operation of the sensing system. This  
may cause reduced performance or false  
alerts.  
E205199  
The system is designed to reduce impact  
damage or avoid a collision completely by  
using the sensors on the rear of your  
vehicle. The system functions when in  
reverse (R) and traveling at a speed of  
1–7 mph (1.5–12 km/h).  
If the system detects an obstacle behind  
your vehicle, it provides a warning through  
the rear parking aid or cross traffic alert  
system.  
WARNING: Some situations and  
objects prevent hazard detection. For  
example low or direct sunlight, inclement  
weather, unconventional vehicle types,  
and pedestrians. Apply the brakes when  
necessary. Failure to follow this  
instruction could result in the loss of  
control of your vehicle, personal injury or  
death.  
WARNING: Do not use the system  
with accessories that extend beyond the  
front or rear of your vehicle, for example  
a trailer hitch or bike rack. The system is  
not able to make corrections for the  
additional length of the accessories.  
REVERSE BRAKING ASSIST  
PRECAUTIONS  
WARNING: You are responsible for  
controlling your vehicle at all times. The  
system is designed to be an aid and does  
not relieve you of your responsibility to  
drive with due care and attention. Failure  
to follow this instruction could result in  
the loss of control of your vehicle,  
personal injury or death.  
The system only applies the brakes for a  
short period of time when an event occurs.  
Act as soon as you notice the brakes apply  
in order to remain in control of the vehicle.  
Note: Certain add-on devices around the  
bumper or fascia may create false alerts.  
For example, large trailer hitches, bicycle or  
surfboard racks, license plate brackets,  
bumper covers or any other device that may  
block the normal detection zone of the  
system. Remove the add-on device to  
prevent false alerts.  
WARNING: To help avoid personal  
injury, always use caution when in  
reverse (R) and when using the sensing  
system.  
Note: The system does not react to small  
or moving objects, particularly those close  
to the ground.  
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Related Topics

Safety Precautions
Running Out of Fuel
Fuel Consumption
Transmission
Four-Wheel Drive
Rear Axle
General Information
Hill Start Assist