Get Tires, Wheels and Loading Guide for Ford Fusion 4 Door First Generation (2006-2012)

Tires, Wheels and Loading

INFORMATION ABOUT UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADING

Tire Quality Grades apply to new

pneumatic passenger car tires. The

Quality grades can be found where

applicable on the tire sidewall

between tread shoulder and

maximum section width. For

example:

• Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A

These Tire Quality Grades are determined by standards that the United

States Department of Transportation has set.

Tire Quality Grades apply to new pneumatic passenger car tires. They do

not apply to deep tread, winter-type snow tires, space-saver or

temporary use spare tires, light truck or “LT” type tires, tires with

nominal rim diameters of 10 to 12 inches or limited production tires as

defined in Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 575.104(c)(2).

U.S. Department of Transportation-Tire quality grades: The U.S.

Department of Transportation requires Ford Motor Company to give you

the following information about tire grades exactly as the government

has written it.

Treadwear

The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of

the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified

government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one

and one-half (1¹⁄2) times as well on the government course as a tire

graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual

conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the

norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices, and

differences in road characteristics and climate.

Traction AA A B C

The traction grades, from highest to lowest are AA, A, B, and C. The

grades represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as measured

under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of

asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction

performance.

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WARNING: The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on

straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include

acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning or peak traction characteristics.

Temperature A B C

The temperature grades are A (the highest), B and C, representing the

tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat

when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory

test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire

to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to

sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance

which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle

Safety Standard No. 139. Grades B and A represent higher levels of

performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by

law.

WARNING: The temperature grade for this tire is established

for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive

speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in

combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.

TIRES

Tires are designed to give many thousands of miles of service, but they

must be maintained in order to get the maximum benefit from them.

Glossary of tire terminology

• Tire label: A label showing the OE (Original Equipment) tire sizes,

recommended inflation pressure and the maximum weight the vehicle

can carry.

• Tire Identification Number (TIN): A number on the sidewall of

each tire providing information about the tire brand and

manufacturing plant, tire size and date of manufacture. Also referred

to as DOT code.

• Inflation pressure: A measure of the amount of air in a tire.

• Standard load: A class of P-metric or Metric tires designed to carry a

maximum load at 35 psi [37 psi (2.5 bar) for Metric tires]. Increasing

the inflation pressure beyond this pressure will not increase the tire’s

load carrying capability.

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• Extra load: A class of P-metric or Metric tires designed to carry a

heavier maximum load at 41 psi [43 psi (2.9 bar) for Metric tires].

Increasing the inflation pressure beyond this pressure will not increase

the tire’s load carrying capability.

• kPa: Kilopascal, a metric unit of air pressure.

• PSI: Pounds per square inch, a standard unit of air pressure.

• Cold inflation pressure: The tire pressure when the vehicle has

been stationary and out of direct sunlight for an hour or more and

prior to the vehicle being driven for 1 mile (1.6 km).

• Recommended inflation pressure: The cold inflation pressure found

on the Safety Compliance Certification Label or Tire Label located on

the B-Pillar or the edge of the driver’s door.

• B-pillar: The structural member at the side of the vehicle behind the

front door.

• Bead area of the tire: Area of the tire next to the rim.

• Sidewall of the tire: Area between the bead area and the tread.

• Tread area of the tire: Area of the perimeter of the tire that

contacts the road when mounted on the vehicle.

• Rim: The metal support (wheel) for a tire or a tire and tube assembly

upon which the tire beads are seated.

INFLATING YOUR TIRES

Safe operation of your vehicle requires that your tires are properly

inflated. Remember that a tire can lose up to half of its air pressure

without appearing flat.

Every day before you drive, check your tires. If one looks lower than the

others, use a tire gauge to check pressure of all tires and adjust if required.

At least once a month and before long trips, inspect each tire and check

the tire pressure with a tire gauge (including spare, if equipped). Inflate

all tires to the inflation pressure recommended by Ford Motor Company.

You are strongly urged to buy a reliable tire pressure gauge, as automatic

service station gauges may be inaccurate. Ford recommends the use of a

digital or dial-type tire pressure gauge rather than a stick-type tire

pressure gauge.

Use the recommended cold inflation pressure for optimum tire

performance and wear. Under-inflation or over-inflation may cause

uneven treadwear patterns.

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WARNING: Under-inflation is the most common cause of tire

failures and may result in severe tire cracking, tread separation

or “blowout”, with unexpected loss of vehicle control and increased

risk of injury. Under-inflation increases sidewall flexing and rolling

resistance, resulting in heat buildup and internal damage to the tire. It

also may result in unnecessary tire stress, irregular wear, loss of

vehicle control and accidents. A tire can lose up to half of its air

pressure and not appear to be flat!

Always inflate your tires to the Ford recommended inflation pressure

even if it is less than the maximum inflation pressure information found

on the tire. The Ford recommended tire inflation pressure is found on

the Safety Compliance Certification Label or Tire Label which is located

on the B-Pillar or the edge of the driver’s door. Failure to follow the tire

pressure recommendations can cause uneven treadwear patterns and

adversely affect the way your vehicle handles.

Maximum Permissible Inflation Pressure is the tire manufacturer’s

maximum permissible pressure and/or the pressure at which the

maximum load can be carried by the tire. This pressure is normally

higher than the manufacturer’s recommended cold inflation pressure

which can be found on the Safety Compliance Certification Label or Tire

Label which is located on the B-Pillar or the edge of the driver’s door.

The cold inflation pressure should never be set lower than the

recommended pressure on the Safety Compliance Certification Label or

Tire Label.

When weather temperature changes occur, tire inflation pressures also

change. A 10°F (6°C) temperature drop can cause a corresponding drop

of 1 psi (7 kPa) in inflation pressure. Check your tire pressures

frequently and adjust them to the proper pressure which can be found

on the Safety Compliance Certification Label or Tire Label.

To check the pressure in your tire(s):

1. Make sure the tires are cool, meaning they are not hot from driving

even a mile.

If you are checking tire pressure when the tire is hot, (i.e. driven more

than 1 mile [1.6 km]), never “bleed” or reduce air pressure. The tires are

hot from driving and it is normal for pressures to increase above

recommended cold pressures. A hot tire at or below recommended cold

inflation pressure could be significantly under-inflated.

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Note: If you have to drive a distance to get air for your tire(s), check

and record the tire pressure first and add the appropriate air pressure

when you get to the pump. It is normal for tires to heat up and the air

pressure inside to go up as you drive.

2. Remove the cap from the valve on one tire, then firmly press the tire

gauge onto the valve and measure the pressure.

3. Add enough air to reach the recommended air pressure.

Note: If you overfill the tire, release air by pressing on the metal stem in

the center of the valve. Then recheck the pressure with your tire gauge.

4. Replace the valve cap.

5. Repeat this procedure for each tire, including the spare.

Note: Some spare tires operate at a higher inflation pressure than the

other tires. For T-type/mini-spare tires (see the Dissimilar spare

tire/wheel information section for description): Store and maintain at

60 psi (4.15 bar). For full-size and dissimilar spare tires (see the

Dissimilar spare tire/wheel information section for description): Store

and maintain at the higher of the front and rear inflation pressure as

shown on the Tire Label.

6. Visually inspect the tires to make sure there are no nails or other

objects embedded that could poke a hole in the tire and cause an air

leak.

7. Check the sidewalls to make sure there are no gouges, cuts or bulges.

TIRE CARE

Inspecting your tires and wheel valve stems

Periodically inspect the tire treads for uneven or excessive wear and

remove objects such as stones, nails or glass that may be wedged in the

tread grooves. Check the tire and valve stems for holes, cracks, or cuts

that may permit air leakage and repair or replace the tire and replace

the valve stem. Inspect the tire sidewalls for cracking, cuts, bruises and

other signs of damage or excessive wear. If internal damage to the tire is

suspected, have the tire demounted and inspected in case it needs to be

repaired or replaced. For your safety, tires that are damaged or show

signs of excessive wear should not be used because they are more likely

to blow out or fail.

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Improper or inadequate vehicle maintenance can cause tires to wear

abnormally. Inspect all your tires, including the spare, frequently, and

replace them if one or more of the following conditions exist:

Tire wear

When the tread is worn down to

1/16th of an inch (2 mm), tires must

be replaced to help prevent your

vehicle from skidding and

hydroplaning. Built-in treadwear

indicators, or “wear bars”, which

look like narrow strips of smooth

rubber across the tread will appear

on the tire when the tread is worn

down to 1/16th of an inch (2 mm).

When the tire tread wears down to

the same height as these “wear bars”, the tire is worn out and must be

replaced.

Damage

Periodically inspect the tire treads and sidewalls for damage (such as

bulges in the tread or sidewalls, cracks in the tread groove and

separation in the tread or sidewall). If damage is observed or suspected

have the tire inspected by a tire professional. Tires can be damaged

during off-road use, so inspection after off-road use is also

recommended.

WARNING: Age

Tires degrade over time depending on many factors such as

weather, storage conditions, and conditions of use (load, speed,

inflation pressure, etc.) the tires experience throughout their lives.

In general, tires should be replaced after six years regardless of tread

wear. However, heat caused by hot climates or frequent high loading

conditions can accelerate the aging process and may require tires to be

replaced more frequently.

You should replace your spare tire when you replace the road tires or

after six years due to aging even if it has not been used.

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U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN)

Both U.S. and Canada Federal regulations require tire manufacturers to

place standardized information on the sidewall of all tires. This

information identifies and describes the fundamental characteristics of

the tire and also provides a U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number for

safety standard certification and in case of a recall.

This begins with the letters “DOT” and indicates that the tire meets all

federal standards. The next two numbers or letters are the plant code

designating where it was manufactured, the next two are the tire size

code and the last four numbers represent the week and year the tire was

built. For example, the numbers 317 mean the 31st week of 1997. After

2000 the numbers go to four digits. For example, 2501 means the 25th

week of 2001. The numbers in between are identification codes used for

traceability. This information is used to contact customers if a tire defect

requires a recall.

Tire replacement requirements

Your vehicle is equipped with tires designed to provide a safe ride and

handling capability.

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 all-season versus all-terrain) as those originally

provided by Ford. The recommended tire and wheel size may be found

on either the Safety Compliance Certification Label 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. Additionally the use

of non-recommended tires and wheels could cause steering,

suspension, axle or transfer case/power transfer unit failure. If you

have questions regarding tire replacement, contact your authorized

dealer as soon as possible.

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WARNING: When mounting replacement tires and wheels, you

should not exceed the maximum pressure indicated on the

sidewall of the tire to set the beads without additional precautions

listed below. If the beads do not seat at the maximum pressure

indicated, re-lubricate and try again.

When inflating the tire for mounting pressures up to 20 psi (1.38 bar)

greater than the maximum pressure on the tire sidewall, the following

precautions must be taken to protect the person mounting the tire:

1. Make sure that you have the correct tire and wheel size.

2. Lubricate the tire bead and wheel bead seat area again.

3. Stand at a minimum of 12 ft (3.66 m) away from the tire wheel

assembly.

4. Use both eye and ear protection.

For a mounting pressure more than 20 psi (1.38 bar) greater than the

maximum pressure, a Ford dealer or other tire service professional

should do the mounting.

Always inflate steel carcass tires with a remote air fill with the person

inflating standing at a minimum of 12 ft (3.66 m) away from the tire

wheel assembly.

Important: Remember to replace the wheel valve stems when the road

tires are replaced on your vehicle.

It is recommended that the two front tires or two rear tires generally be

replaced as a pair.

The tire pressure sensors mounted in the wheels (originally installed on

your vehicle) are not designed to be used in aftermarket wheels.

The use of wheels or tires not recommended by Ford Motor Company

may affect the operation of your tire pressure monitoring system.

If the TPMS indicator is flashing, your TPMS is malfunctioning. Your

replacement tire might be incompatible with your TPMS, or some

component of the TPMS may be damaged.

Safety practices

Driving habits have a great deal to do with your tire mileage and safety.

• Observe posted speed limits

• Avoid fast starts, stops and turns

• Avoid potholes and objects on the road

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• Do not run over curbs or hit the tire against a curb when parking

WARNING: If your vehicle is stuck in snow, mud, sand, etc., do

not rapidly spin the tires; spinning the tires can tear the tire and

cause an explosion. A tire can explode in as little as three to five

seconds.

WARNING: Do not spin the wheels at over 35 mph (56 km/h).

The tires may fail and injure a passenger or bystander.

Highway hazards

No matter how carefully you drive there’s always the possibility that you

may eventually have a flat tire on the highway. Drive slowly to the

closest safe area out of traffic. This may further damage the flat tire, but

your safety is more important.

If you feel a sudden vibration or ride disturbance while driving, or you

suspect your tire or vehicle has been damaged, immediately reduce your

speed. Drive with caution until you can safely pull off the road. Stop and

inspect the tires for damage. If a tire is under-inflated or damaged,

deflate it, remove wheel and replace it with your spare tire and wheel. If

you cannot detect a cause, have the vehicle towed to the nearest repair

facility or tire dealer to have the vehicle inspected.

Tire and wheel alignment

A bad jolt from hitting a curb or pothole can cause the front end of your

vehicle to become misaligned or cause damage to your tires. If your

vehicle seems to pull to one side when you’re driving, the wheels may be

out of alignment. Have an authorized dealer check the wheel alignment

periodically.

Wheel misalignment in the front or the rear can cause uneven and rapid

treadwear of your tires and should be corrected by an authorized dealer.

Front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicles and those with an independent rear

suspension (if equipped) may require alignment of all four wheels.

The tires should also be balanced periodically. An unbalanced tire and

wheel assembly may result in irregular tire wear.

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Tire rotation

Rotating your tires at the recommended interval (as indicated in the

Scheduled Maintenance chapter) will help your tires wear more evenly,

providing better tire performance and longer tire life.

• Front-wheel drive

(FWD)/All-wheel drive (AWD)

vehicles (front tires at top of

diagram)

Sometimes irregular tire wear can be corrected by rotating the tires.

Note: If your tires show uneven wear ask an authorized dealer to check

for and correct any wheel misalignment, tire imbalance or mechanical

problem involved before tire rotation.

Note: Your vehicle may be equipped with a dissimilar spare tire/wheel. A

dissimilar spare tire/wheel is defined as a spare tire and/or wheel that is

different in brand, size or appearance from the road tires and wheels. If

you have a dissimilar spare tire/wheel it is intended for temporary use

only and should not be used in a tire rotation.

Note: After having your tires rotated, inflation pressure must be checked

and adjusted to the vehicle requirements.

INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE TIRE SIDEWALL

Both U.S. and Canada Federal regulations require tire manufacturers to

place standardized information on the sidewall of all tires. This

information identifies and describes the fundamental characteristics of

the tire and also provides a U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number for

safety standard certification and in case of a recall.

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Information on “P” type tires

P215/65R15 95H is an example of a

tire size, load index and speed

rating. The definitions of these

items are listed below. (Note that

the tire size, load index and speed

rating for your vehicle may be

different from this example.)

1. P: Indicates a tire, designated by

the Tire and Rim Association

(T&RA), that may be used for

service on cars, SUVs, minivans and

light trucks.

Note: If your tire size does not

begin with a letter this may mean it

is designated by either ETRTO

(European Tire and Rim Technical Organization) or JATMA (Japan Tire

Manufacturing Association).

2. 215: Indicates the nominal width of the tire in millimeters from

sidewall edge to sidewall edge. In general, the larger the number, the

wider the tire.

3. 65: Indicates the aspect ratio which gives the tire’s ratio of height to

width.

4. R: Indicates a “radial” type tire.

5. 15: Indicates the wheel or rim diameter in inches. If you change your

wheel size, you will have to purchase new tires to match the new wheel

diameter.

6. 95: Indicates the tire’s load index. It is an index that relates to how

much weight a tire can carry. You may find this information in your

owner’s guide. If not, contact a local tire dealer.

Note: You may not find this information on all tires because it is not

required by federal law.

7. H: Indicates the tire’s speed rating. The speed rating denotes the

speed at which a tire is designed to be driven for extended periods of

time under a standard condition of load and inflation pressure. The tires

on your vehicle may operate at different conditions for load and inflation

pressure. These speed ratings may need to be adjusted for the difference

in conditions. The ratings range from 81 mph (130 km/h) to 186 mph

(299 km/h). These ratings are listed in the following chart.

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Note: You may not find this information on all tires because it is not

required by federal law.

Letter rating

Speed rating - mph (km/h)

81 mph (130 km/h)

87 mph (140 km/h)

99 mph (159 km/h)

106 mph (171 km/h)

112 mph (180 km/h)

118 mph (190 km/h)

124 mph (200 km/h)

130 mph (210 km/h)

149 mph (240 km/h)

168 mph (270 km/h)

186 mph (299 km/h)

M

N

Q

R

S

T

U

H

V

W

Y

Note: For tires with a maximum speed capability over 149 mph

(240 km/h), tire manufacturers sometimes use the letters ZR. For

those with a maximum speed capability over 186 mph (299 km/h), tire

manufacturers always use the letters ZR.

8. U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN): This begins with the

letters “DOT” and indicates that the tire meets all federal standards. The

next two numbers or letters are the plant code designating where it was

manufactured, the next two are the tire size code and the last four

numbers represent the week and year the tire was built. For example,

the numbers 317 mean the 31st week of 1997. After 2000 the numbers

go to four digits. For example, 2501 means the 25th week of 2001. The

numbers in between are identification codes used for traceability. This

information is used to contact customers if a tire defect requires a recall.

9. M+S or M/S: Mud and Snow, or

AT: All Terrain, or

AS: All Season.

10. Tire Ply Composition and Material Used: Indicates the number of

plies or the number of layers of rubber-coated fabric in the tire tread and

sidewall. Tire manufacturers also must indicate the ply materials in the

tire and the sidewall, which include steel, nylon, polyester, and others.

11. Maximum Load: Indicates the maximum load in kilograms and

pounds that can be carried by the tire. Refer to the Safety Compliance

Certification Label, which is located on the B-Pillar or the edge of the

driver’s door, for the correct tire pressure for your vehicle.

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12. Treadwear, Traction and Temperature Grades

• Treadwear: The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the

wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a

specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150

would wear one and one-half (1¹⁄2) times as well on the government

course as a tire graded 100.

• Traction: The traction grades, from highest to lowest are AA, A, B,

and C. The grades represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement

as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test

surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor

traction performance.

• Temperature: The temperature grades are A (the highest), B and C,

representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its

ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a

specified indoor laboratory test wheel.

13. Maximum Permissible Inflation Pressure: Indicates the tire

manufacturers’ maximum permissible pressure and/or the pressure at

which the maximum load can be carried by the tire. This pressure is

normally higher than the manufacturer’s recommended cold inflation

pressure which can be found on the Safety Compliance Certification

Label or Tire Label which is located on the B-Pillar or the edge of the

driver’s door. The cold inflation pressure should never be set lower than

the recommended pressure on the vehicle label.

The tire suppliers may have additional markings, notes or warnings such

as standard load, radial tubeless, etc.

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Additional information contained on the tire sidewall for “LT” type

tires

“LT” type tires have some additional

information beyond those of “P”

type tires; these differences are

described below.

Note: Tire Quality Grades do not

apply to this type of tire.

1. LT: Indicates a tire, designated by

the Tire and Rim Association

(T&RA), that is intended for service

on light trucks.

2. Load Range/Load Inflation

Limits: Indicates the tire’s

load-carrying capabilities and its

inflation limits.

3. Maximum Load Dual lb (kg) at psi (kPa) cold: Indicates the

maximum load and tire pressure when the tire is used as a dual; defined

as four tires on the rear axle (a total of six or more tires on the vehicle).

4. Maximum Load Single lb (kg) at psi (kPa) cold: Indicates the

maximum load and tire pressure when the tire is used as a single;

defined as two tires (total) on the rear axle.

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Information on “T” type tires

“T” type tires have some additional

information beyond those of “P”

type tires; these differences are

described below:

T145/80D16 is an example of a tire

size.

Note: The temporary tire size for

your vehicle may be different from

this example. Tire Quality Grades do

not apply to this type of tire.

1. T: Indicates a type of tire,

designated by the Tire and Rim

Association (T&RA), that is

intended for temporary service on

cars, SUVs, minivans and light

trucks.

2. 145: Indicates the nominal width

of the tire in millimeters from sidewall edge to sidewall edge. In general,

the larger the number, the wider the tire.

3. 80: Indicates the aspect ratio which gives the tire’s ratio of height to

width. Numbers of 70 or lower indicate a short sidewall.

4. D: Indicates a “diagonal” type tire.

R: Indicates a “radial” type tire.

5. 16: Indicates the wheel or rim diameter in inches. If you change your

wheel size, you will have to purchase new tires to match the new wheel

diameter.

Location of the tire label

You will find a Tire Label containing tire inflation pressure by tire size

and other important information located on the B-Pillar or the edge of

the driver’s door. Refer to the payload description and graphic in the

Vehicle loading section.

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TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS)

Each tire, including the spare (if

provided), should be checked

monthly when cold and inflated to

the inflation pressure recommended

by the vehicle manufacturer on the

vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If your vehicle has tires

of a different size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or tire

inflation pressure label, you should determine the proper tire inflation

pressure for those tires.)

As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a tire

pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pressure

telltale when one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated.

Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale illuminates, you should

stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the

proper pressure. Driving on a significantly under-inflated tire causes the

tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces

fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s handling

and stopping ability.

Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire

maintenance, and it is the driver’s responsibility to maintain correct tire

pressure, even if under-inflation has not reached the level to trigger

illumination of the TPMS low tire pressure telltale.

Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS malfunction indicator

to indicate when the system is not operating properly. The TPMS

malfunction indicator is combined with the low tire pressure telltale.

When the system detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash for

approximately one minute and then remain continuously illuminated.

This sequence will continue upon subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as

the malfunction exists.

When the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the system may not be

able to detect or signal low tire pressure as intended. TPMS malfunctions

may occur for a variety of reasons, including the installation of

replacement or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent the

TPMS from functioning properly. Always check the TPMS malfunction

telltale after replacing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle to

ensure that the replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow the

TPMS to continue to function properly.

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The tire pressure monitoring system complies with part 15 of the FCC

rules and with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the

following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful

interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received,

including interference that may cause undesired operation.

WARNING: The tire pressure monitoring system is NOT a

substitute for manually checking tire pressure. The tire pressure

should be checked periodically (at least monthly) using a tire gauge,

see Inflating your tires in this chapter. Failure to properly maintain

your tire pressure could increase the risk of tire failure, loss of control,

vehicle rollover and personal injury.

Changing tires with a TPMS

Each road tire is equipped with

a tire pressure sensor located

inside the tire/wheel cavity. The

pressure sensor is attached to

the valve stem. The pressure

sensor is covered by the tire and

is not visible unless the tire is

removed. Care must be taken

when changing the tire to avoid

damaging the sensor. It is

recommended that you always have

your tires serviced by an authorized dealer.

The tire pressure should be checked periodically (at least monthly) using

an accurate tire gauge, refer to Inflating your tires in this chapter.

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Understanding your tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)

The tire pressure monitoring system measures pressure in your four road

tires and sends the tire pressure readings to your vehicle. The low tire

pressure warning light will turn on if the tire pressure is significantly low.

Once the light is illuminated, your tires are under-inflated and need to be

inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure. Even if the

light turns on and a short time later turns off, your tire pressure still

needs to be checked. Visit www.checkmytires.org for additional

information.

When your temporary spare tire is installed

When one of your road tires needs to be replaced with the temporary

spare, the TPMS will continue to identify an issue to remind you that the

damaged road wheel/tire needs to be repaired and put back on your

vehicle.

To restore the full functionality of the tire pressure monitoring system,

have the damaged road wheel/tire repaired and remounted on your

vehicle. For additional information, refer to Changing tires with a

TPMS in this section.

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When you believe your system is not operating properly

The main function of the tire pressure monitoring system is to warn you

when your tires need air. It can also warn you in the event the system is

no longer capable of functioning as intended. Please refer to the

following chart for information concerning your tire pressure monitoring

system:

Low tire pressure Possible cause Customer action required

warning light

Solid warning light

Tire(s)

under-inflated

1. Check your tire pressure to

ensure tires are properly

inflated; refer to Inflating

your tires in this chapter.

2. After inflating your tires to

the manufacturer’s

recommended inflation

pressure as shown on the Tire

Label (located on the edge of

driver’s door or the B-Pillar),

the vehicle must be driven for

at least two minutes over

20 mph (32 km/h) before the

light will turn off.

Spare tire in use Your temporary spare tire is in

use. Repair the damaged road

wheel/tire and reinstall it on

the vehicle to restore system

functionality. For a description

on how the system functions,

refer to When your temporary

spare tire is installed in this

section.

TPMS

malfunction

If your tires are properly

inflated and your spare tire is

not in use and the light

remains on, contact your

authorized dealer as soon as

possible.

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Low tire pressure Possible cause Customer action required

warning light

Flashing warning

light

Spare tire in use Your temporary spare tire is in

use. Repair the damaged road

wheel and re-mount it on the

vehicle to restore system

functionality. For a description

of how the system functions

under these conditions, refer to

When your temporary spare

tire is installed in this section.

TPMS

malfunction

If your tires are properly

inflated and your spare tire is

not in use and the TPMS

warning light still flashes,

contact your authorized dealer

as soon as possible.

When inflating your tires

When putting air into your tires (such as at a gas station or in your

garage), the tire pressure monitoring system may not respond

immediately to the air added to your tires.

It may take up to two minutes of driving over 20 mph (32 km/h) for the

light to turn off after you have filled your tires to the recommended

inflation pressure.

How temperature affects your tire pressure

The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) monitors tire pressure in

each pneumatic tire. While driving in a normal manner, a typical

passenger tire inflation pressure may increase approximately 2 to 4 psi

(14 to 28 kPa) from a cold start situation. If the vehicle is stationary

overnight with the outside temperature significantly lower than the

daytime temperature, the tire pressure may decrease approximately 3 psi

(21 kPa) for a drop of 30°F (17°C) in ambient temperature. This lower

pressure value may be detected by the TPMS as being significantly lower

than the recommended inflation pressure and activate the TPMS warning

light for low tire pressure. If the low tire pressure warning light is on,

visually check each tire to verify that no tire is flat. (If one or more tires

are flat, repair as necessary.) Check air pressure in the road tires. If any

tire is under-inflated, carefully drive the vehicle to the nearest location

where air can be added to the tires. Inflate all the tires to the

recommended inflation pressure.

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SNOW TIRES AND CHAINS

WARNING: Snow tires must be the same size, load index, speed

rating as those originally provided by Ford. Use of any tire or

wheel not recommended by Ford can affect the safety and

performance of your vehicle, which could result in an increased risk of

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

Additionally, the use of non-recommended tires and wheels could

cause steering, suspension, axle or transfer case/power transfer unit

failure.

The tires on your vehicle have all-weather treads to provide traction in

rain and snow. However, in some climates, you may need to use snow

tires and chains. If you need to use chains, it is recommended that steel

wheels (of the same size and specifications) be used, as chains may chip

aluminum wheels.

Note: The suspension insulation and bumpers will help prevent vehicle

damage. Do not remove these components from your vehicle when using

snow tires and chains.

Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and chains:

• If possible, avoid fully loading your vehicle.

• Use only SAE Class S cables or equivalent on the front axle for

P205/60R16 equipped vehicles. SAE Class S chains or other

conventional link chains may cause damage to the vehicles wheel

house and/or body.

• Do not install tire chains, cables, or optional traction devices on the

rear tires. This could cause damage to the vehicle’s wheel house or

body.

• Do not use tire chains, cables, or optional traction devices with

optional P225/50R17 or P225/45R18 tires.

• Install cable chains securely, verifying that the cables do not touch any

wiring, brake lines or fuel lines.

• Do not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h) with tire cables on your vehicle.

• Drive cautiously. If you hear the cables rub or bang against your

vehicle, stop and retighten the cables. If this does not work, remove

the cables to prevent damage to your vehicle.

• Remove the tire cables when they are no longer needed. Do not use

tire cables on dry roads.

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VEHICLE LOADING

This section will guide you in the proper loading of your vehicle to keep

your loaded vehicle weight within its design rating capability. Properly

loading your vehicle will provide maximum return of vehicle design

performance. Before loading your vehicle, familiarize yourself with the

following terms for determining your vehicle’s weight ratings from the

vehicle’s Tire Label or Safety Compliance Certification Label:

Base Curb Weight – is the weight of the vehicle including a full tank of

fuel and all standard equipment. It does not include passengers, cargo, or

optional equipment.

Vehicle Curb Weight – is the weight of your new vehicle when you

picked it up from your authorized dealer plus any aftermarket

equipment.

Payload – is the combined weight of cargo and passengers that the

vehicle is carrying. The maximum payload for your vehicle can be found

on the Tire Label on the B-Pillar or the edge of the driver’s door

(vehicles exported outside the US and Canada may not have a Tire

Label). Look for “THE COMBINED WEIGHT OF OCCUPANTS AND

CARGO SHOULD NEVER EXCEED XXX kg OR XXX lb.” for

maximum payload. The payload listed on the Tire Label is the maximum

payload for the vehicle as built by the assembly plant. If any aftermarket

or authorized-dealer installed equipment has been installed on the

vehicle, the weight of the equipment must be subtracted from the

payload listed on the Tire Label in order to determine the new payload.

WARNING: The appropriate loading capacity of your vehicle can

be limited either by volume capacity (how much space is

available) or by payload capacity (how much weight the vehicle should

carry). Once you have reached the maximum payload of your vehicle,

do not add more cargo, even if there is space available. Overloading or

improperly loading your vehicle can contribute to loss of vehicle

control and vehicle rollover.

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Example only:

Cargo Weight – includes all weight added to the Base Curb Weight,

including cargo and optional equipment.

GAW (Gross Axle Weight) – is the total weight placed on each axle

(front and rear) – including vehicle curb weight and all payload.

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GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) – is the maximum allowable

weight that can be carried by a single axle (front or rear). These

numbers are shown on the Safety Compliance Certification Label

located on the B-Pillar or the edge of the driver’s door. The total

load on each axle must never exceed its GAWR.

GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) – is the Vehicle Curb Weight + cargo +

passengers.

GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) – is the maximum allowable

weight of the fully loaded vehicle (including all options, equipment,

passengers and cargo). The GVWR is shown on the Safety

Compliance Certification Label located on the B-Pillar or the

edge of the driver’s door. The GVW must never exceed the GVWR.

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• Example only:

WARNING: Exceeding the Safety Compliance Certification Label

vehicle weight rating limits could result in substandard vehicle

handling or performance, engine, transmission and/or structural

damage, serious damage to the vehicle, loss of control and personal

injury.

WARNING: Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on

the Safety Compliance Certification Label.

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WARNING: Do not use replacement tires with lower load

carrying capacities than the original tires because they may

lower the vehicle’s GVWR and GAWR limitations. Replacement tires

with a higher limit than the original tires do not increase the GVWR

and GAWR limitations.

WARNING: Exceeding any vehicle weight rating limitation could

result in serious damage to the vehicle and/or personal injury.

Steps for determining the correct load limit:

1. Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo

should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your vehicle’s placard.

2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will

be riding in your vehicle.

3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX

kg or XXX lbs.

4. The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage

load capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1,400 lbs. and

there will be five 150 lb. passengers in your vehicle, the amount of

available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. (1400-750 (5 x 150)

= 650 lb.). In metric units (635-340 (5 x 68) = 295 kg.)

5. Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on

the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and

luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4.

The following gives you a few examples on how to calculate the available

amount of cargo and luggage load capacity:

• Another example for your vehicle with 1400 lb. (635 kg) of cargo and

luggage capacity. You decide to go golfing. Is there enough load

capacity to carry you, 4 of your friends and all the golf bags? You and

four friends average 220 lb. (99 kg) each and the golf bags weigh

approximately 30 lb. (13.5 kg) each. The calculation would be: 1400 –

(5 x 220) - (5 x 30) = 1400 - 1100 - 150 = 150 lb. Yes, you have

enough load capacity in your vehicle to transport four friends and

your golf bags. In metric units, the calculation would be: 635 kg - (5 x

99 kg) - (5 x 13.5 kg) = 635 - 495 - 67.5 = 72.5 kg.

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• A final example for your vehicle with 1400 lb. (635 kg) of cargo and

luggage capacity. You and one of your friends decide to pick up

cement from the local home improvement store to finish that patio

you have been planning for the past 2 years. Measuring the inside of

the vehicle with the rear seat folded down, you have room for

12-100 lb. (45 kg) bags of cement. Do you have enough load capacity

to transport the cement to your home? If you and your friend each

weigh 220 lb. (99 kg), the calculation would be: 1400 - (2 x 220) - (12

x 100) = 1400 - 440 - 1200 = - 240 lb. No, you do not have enough

cargo capacity to carry that much weight. In metric units, the

calculation would be: 635 kg - (2 x 99 kg) - (12 x 45 kg) = 635 - 198 -

540 = -103 kg. You will need to reduce the load weight by at least

240 lb. (104 kg). If you remove 3-100 lb. (45 kg) cement bags, then

the load calculation would be:

1400 - (2 x 220) - (9 x 100) = 1400 - 440 - 900 = 60 lb. Now you have

the load capacity to transport the cement and your friend home. In

metric units, the calculation would be: 635 kg - (2 x 99 kg) - (9 x

45 kg) = 635 - 198 - 405 = 32 kg.

The above calculations also assume that the loads are positioned in your

vehicle in a manner that does not overload the Front or the Rear Gross

Axle Weight Rating specified for your vehicle on the Safety Compliance

Certification Label found on the edge of the driver’s door.

TRAILER TOWING

WARNING: Never tow a trailer with this vehicle. Your vehicle is

not equipped to tow. No towing packages are available through

an authorized dealer.

RECREATIONAL TOWING

Follow these guidelines for your specific powertrain combination to tow

your vehicle for personal travel (such as behind a motor home or a

truck).

Note: Put your climate control system in recirculated air mode to

prevent exhaust fumes from entering the vehicle. Refer to the Climate

Controls chapter for more information.

In case of a roadside emergency with a disabled vehicle, please refer to

Wrecker towing in the Roadside Emergencies chapter.

These guidelines are designed to prevent damage to your vehicle after it

is hooked-up to the RV or tow dolly.

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Front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicles equipped with a 2.5L or 3.0L

engine can be towed with all four wheels on the ground or with the

front wheels off the ground by using a tow dolly. If you are using a tow

dolly follow the instructions specified by the equipment provider. If you

are towing with all four wheels on the ground, refer to the towing

instructions below.

All-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles equipped with a 3.0L engine can

be towed with all four wheels on the ground or with all four wheels off

the ground using a vehicle transport trailer. Do not tow your AWD

vehicle with the front wheels off the ground (by using a tow

dolly) and the rear wheels on the ground; this will cause damage

to your AWD system. If you are using a vehicle transport trailer, follow

the instruction specified by the equipment provider. If you are towing

with all four wheels on the ground, refer to the towing instructions

below.

If you tow your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground, follow these

instructions:

• Vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission should have the

transmission fluid level checked by an authorized dealer. For the

correct transmission fluid level when flat towing (all four wheels on

the ground), refer to Transmission fluid in the Maintenance and

Specifications chapter.

• Tow only in the forward direction.

• Release the parking brake.

• Place the transmission shift lever in N (Neutral).

• Place the ignition to the accessory position (refer to Starting in the

Driving chapter).

• Do not exceed 65 mph (105 km/h) if the vehicle is equipped with an

automatic transmission or 70 mph (113 km/h) if equipped with a

manual transmission.

• Vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission need to start the

engine and allow it to run for five minutes at the beginning of each

day and every six hours thereafter. With the engine running and your

foot on the brake, shift into D (Drive) and then into R (Reverse)

before shifting back into N (Neutral).

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Front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicles equipped with a 3.5L engine

can’t be towed with the front drive wheels on the ground or transmission

damage may occur. It is recommended to tow your vehicle with the front

drive wheels on a dolly or with all four wheels off the ground on a

car-hauling trailer.

All-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles equipped with a 3.5L engine can’t

be towed with any wheels on the ground, as vehicle or transmission

damage may occur. It is recommended to tow your vehicle with all four

wheels off the ground such as when using a car-hauling trailer.

Otherwise, no recreational towing is permitted.

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