
STARTING
Positions of the ignition
1. OFF/LOCK, locks the steering
wheel, automatic transmission
gearshift lever and allows key
removal.
Note:The ignition key cannot be
removed from the ignition unless
the gearshift lever is securely
latched in P (Park).
2. ACCESSORY, allows the electrical
accessories such as the radio to
operate while the engine is not running.
3. ON, all electrical circuits operational. Warning lights illuminated. Key
position when driving.
4. START, cranks the engine. Release the key as soon as the engine
starts.
Preparing to start your vehicle
Engine starting is controlled by the powertrain control system. This
system meets all Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment standard
requirements regulating the impulse electrical field strength of radio
noise.
When starting a fuel-injected engine, don’t press the accelerator before
or during starting. Only use the accelerator when you have difficulty
starting the engine. For more information on starting the vehicle, refer to
Starting the enginein this chapter.
Extended idling at high engine speeds can produce very high
temperatures in the engine and exhaust system, creating the risk
of fire or other damage.
Do not park, idle, or drive your vehicle in dry grass or other dry
ground cover. The emission system heats up the engine
compartment and exhaust system, which can start a fire.
2008 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Driving
258

To help avoid personal injury, always use caution when in
reverse and when using the RSS.
This system is not designed to prevent contact with small or
moving objects. The system is designed to provide a warning to
assist the driver in detecting large stationary objects to avoid damaging
the vehicle. The system may not detect smaller objects, particularly
those close to the ground.
Certain add-on devices such as large trailer hitches, bike or
surfboard racks and any device that may block the normal
detection zone of the RSS system may create false beeps.
The RSS detects obstacles up to
6 feet (2 meters) from the rear
bumper with a decreased coverage
area at the outer corners of the
bumper, (refer to the figures for
approximate zone coverage areas).
As you move closer to the obstacle,
the rate of the tone increases. When
the obstacle is less than 10 inches
(25.0 cm) away, the tone will sound
continuously. If the RSS detects a
stationary or receding object further
than 10 inches (25.0 cm) from the
side of the vehicle, the tone will
sound for only three seconds. Once
the system detects an object
approaching, the tone will sound
again.
While receiving a warning the radio
volume may be reduced to a
predetermined level. After the
warning goes away, the radio will return to the previous volume.
The RSS may have reduced performance or an increased chance of false
detection if the tailgate is not locked and in the upright position. If the
tailgate is down, the RSS tone may be heard intermittently or
continuously. The tone may also be heard if items in the truck bed
protrude rearward outside the bed.
2008 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Driving
278

Fuse/Relay
LocationFuse Amp
RatingPassenger Compartment Fuse
Panel Description
F01 10A* Run/Accessory - Wipers,
Instrument cluster, Audio for
XL/STX
F02 20A* Stop/Turn lamps, ABS, T/T
electric brake module, PCM (BOO
signal), turn signal mirrors,
CHMSL
F03 7.5A* Power mirrors, Memory seats and
pedals
F04 10A* DVD battery power, Power fold
mirror
F05 7.5A* Keep alive memory for Powertrain
Control Module (PCM) and
Climate control module
F06 15A* Parklamps, Body Security Module
(BSM), Instrument panel
illumination
F07 5A* Radio (start signal)
F08 10A* Heated mirrors, Switch indicator
F09 20A* Fuel pump relay, Fuel injectors,
Injector sense
F10 20A* Trailer tow back-up lamps relay,
Trailer tow parklamp relay
F11 10A* A/C clutch, 4x4 solenoid
F12 5A* PCM relay coil
F13 10A* Climate control module power,
Flasher relay
F14 10A* Back-up lamp and Daytime
Running Lamps (DRL) relay coil,
A/C pressure switch, Redundant
speed control switch, Heated PCV
(5.4L), ABS
F15 5A* Overdrive cancel, Cluster
F16 10A* Brake-shift interlock solenoid
F17 15A* Fog lamp relay
2008 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Roadside Emergencies
302

Fuse/Relay
LocationFuse Amp
RatingPassenger Compartment Fuse
Panel Description
F18 10A* Electrochromatic mirror, Heated
seats, BSM, Compass, RSS
(Reverse Sensing System), Power
rail
F19 10A* Restraints (Airbag module)
F20 10A* Power rail
F21 15A* Cluster keep alive power
F22 10A* Delayed accessory power for
audio, power door lock switch and
moon roof switch illumination
F23 10A* RH low beam headlamp
F24 15A* Battery saver power for demand
lamps, Flex fuel
F25 10A* LH low beam headlamp
F26 20A* Horn
F27 5A* Passenger Airbag Deactivation
(PAD) warning lamp, Cluster
airbag warning lamp
F28 5A* SecuriLock transceiver (PATS),
PCM IGN monitor
F29 15A* PCM 4x4 power
F30 15A* PCM 4x4 power
F31 20A* Radio power, Satellite radio
module
F32 15A* Vapor Management Valve (VMV),
A/C clutch relay, Canister vent,
Heated Exhaust Gas Oxygen
(HEGO) sensors #11 and #21,
CMCV, Mass Air Flow (MAF)
sensor, Variable Cam Timing
(VCT), Heated Positive Crankcase
Ventilation (PCV) valve (4.2L
engine), CID sensor (4.2L
engine), 4.6L/4.2L EGR
2008 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Roadside Emergencies
303

Keep batteries out of reach of children. Batteries contain sulfuric
acid. Avoid contact with skin, eyes or clothing. Shield your eyes
when working near the battery to protect against possible splashing of
acid solution. In case of acid contact with skin or eyes, flush
immediately with water for a minimum of 15 minutes and get prompt
medical attention. If acid is swallowed, call a physician immediately.
Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and
lead compounds.Wash hands after handling.
Because your vehicle’s engine is also electronically controlled by a
computer, some control conditions are maintained by power from the
battery. When the battery is disconnected or a new battery is installed,
the engine must relearn its idle and fuel trim strategy for optimum
driveability and performance. Flexible fuel vehicles (FFV) must also
relearn the ethanol content of the fuel for optimum driveability and
performance. To begin this process:
1. With the vehicle at a complete stop, set the parking brake.
2. Put the gearshift in P (Park) (automatic transmission) or the neutral
position (manual transmission), turn off all accessories and start the
engine.
3. Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature.
4. Allow the engine to idle for at least one minute.
5. Turn the A/C on and allow the engine to idle for at least one minute.
6. Drive the vehicle to complete the relearning process.
•The vehicle may need to be driven 10 miles (16 km) or more to
relearn the idle and fuel trim strategy along with the ethanol content
for flexible fuel vehicles.
•If you do not allow the engine to relearn its idle trim, the idle quality
of your vehicle may be adversely affected until the idle trim is
eventually relearned.
•For flexible fuel vehicles, if you are operating on E85, you may
experience poor starts or an inability to start the engine and
driveability problems until the fuel trim and ethanol content have been
relearned.
If the battery has been disconnected or a new battery has been installed,
the clock and the preset radio stations must be reset once the battery is
reconnected.
2008 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Maintenance and Specifications
350

Lifestyle
Ash cup / smoker’s package
Bedliners and bedmats
Cargo organization and management
Towing mirrors
Trailer hitches, wiring harnesses and accessories
Peace of mind
Mobile-Ease™ hands free communication system
Remote start
Vehicle security systems
Wheel locks
For maximum vehicle performance, keep the following information in
mind when adding accessories or equipment to your vehicle:
•When adding accessories, equipment, passengers and luggage to your
vehicle, do not exceed the total weight capacity of the vehicle or of
the front or rear axle (GVWR or GAWR as indicated on the Safety
Compliance Certification label). Consult your authorized dealer for
specific weight information.
•The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Canadian Radio
Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) regulate the use of mobile
communications systems — such as two-way radios, telephones and
theft alarms - that are equipped with radio transmitters. Any such
equipment installed in your vehicle should comply with FCC or CRTC
regulations and should be installed only by a qualified service
technician.
•Mobile communications systems may harm the operation of your
vehicle, particularly if they are not properly designed for automotive
use.
•To avoid interference with other vehicle functions, such as anti-lock
braking systems, amateur radio users who install radios and antennas
onto their vehicle should not locate the Amateur Radio Antennas in
the area of the driver’s side hood.
•Electrical or electronic accessories or components that are added to
the vehicle by the authorized dealer or the owner may adversely affect
battery performance and durability.
2008 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Accessories
390

A
Accessory delay ........................111
Air cleaner filter .......377–378, 380
Air conditioning ....................85, 87
Airbag supplemental
restraint system ................183–184
and child safety seats ............186
description ..............................184
disposal ....................................188
driver airbag ....................184, 187
indicator light .........................188
operation .........................184, 187
passenger airbag .............184, 187
Ambulance packages ....................7
Antifreeze
(see Engine coolant) ................351
Anti-lock brake system
(see Brakes) ..............................265
Anti-theft system ......................155
arming the system ..................156
Armrests ....................................159
Audio system
(see Radio) ................23, 27, 29, 36
Automatic transmission
driving an automatic
overdrive .................................272
fluid, adding ............................372
fluid, checking ........................372
fluid, refill capacities ..............381
fluid, specification ..................381
Auxiliary input jack (Line in) ....44
Axle
lubricant specifications ..........381
refill capacities ........................381
traction lok ..............................268B
Battery .......................................349
acid, treating emergencies .....349
jumping a disabled battery ....315
maintenance-free ....................349
replacement, specifications ...380
servicing ..................................349
Belt-Minder.............................178
deactivating/activating the
Belt-Minder...........................181
Booster seats .............................193
Brakes ........................................264
anti-lock ...................................265
anti-lock brake system (ABS)
warning light ...........................265
fluid, checking and adding ....371
fluid, refill capacities ..............381
fluid, specifications .................381
lubricant specifications ..........381
parking ....................................266
shift interlock ..................269–270
Bulbs ............................................97
C
Capacities for refilling fluids ....381
Cargo cage .................................136
Cargo management system ......137
Cell phone use ..............................8
Changing a tire .........................307
Child safety restraints ..............192
child safety belts ....................192
Child safety seats ......................196
attaching with tether
straps .......................................203
in front seat ....................197, 200
in rear seat ..............197, 200, 203
2008 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Index
391

heated ......................................114
programmable memory ..........149
side view mirrors (power) .....112
signal .......................................114
Moon roof ..................................119
Motorcraft parts ........338, 357, 380
N
Navigation system .......................80
O
Octane rating ............................363
Oil (see Engine oil) ..................345
P
Parking brake ............................266
Parts (see Motorcraft parts) ....380
Passenger Occupant
Classification Sensor .................165
Power distribution box
(see Fuses) ...............................300
Power door locks ......................144
Power mirrors ...........................112
Power point ...............................108
Power steering ..........................267
fluid, checking and adding ....370
fluid, refill capacity ................381
fluid, specifications .................381
Power Windows .........................110
Preparing to drive your
vehicle ........................................268
R
Radio ..........................23, 27, 29, 36Rear seat entertainment
system ..........................................51
Rear video camera ....................280
Relays ........................................299
Remote entry system ...............147
illuminated entry ....................151
locking/unlocking
doors ................................147–148
panic alarm .............................149
replacement/additional
transmitters .............................150
replacing the batteries ...........149
Reverse sensing system ...........277
Roadside assistance ..................296
S
Safety Belt Maintenance ..........183
Safety belts (see
Safety restraints) .............164, 167,
169–170, 173–175, 177
Safety defects,
reporting ............................327–328
Safety restraints ...............164, 167,
169–170, 173–175, 177
Belt-Minder...........................178
Belt-Minder,
deactivating/activating ...........181
extension assembly ................182
for adults .........169–170, 173–175
for children .............................192
lap belt ....................................172
Occupant Classification
Sensor ......................................165
safety belt maintenance .........183
warning light and
chime ...............................177–178
Safety seats for children ..........196
2008 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Index
395