
Windshield washer:Press the end
of the stalk:
•briefly: causes a single swipe of
the wipers without washer fluid.
•a quick press and hold: the
wipers will swipe three times with
washer fluid.
•a long press and hold: the wipers
and washer fluid will be activated for up to ten seconds.
Note:Do not operate the washer when the washer reservoir is empty.
This may cause the washer pump to overheat. Check the washer fluid
level frequently. Do not operate the wipers when the windshield is dry.
This may scratch the glass, damage the wiper blades and cause the wiper
motor to burn out. Before operating the wiper on a dry windshield,
always use the windshield washer. In freezing weather, be sure the wiper
blades are not frozen to the windshield before operating the wipers.
Courtesy wipe feature:One extra wipe will occur a few seconds after
washing the front window to clear any excess washer fluid remaining on
the windshield. This feature can be enabled/disabled through the message
center. Refer toMessage centerin theInstrument Clusterchapter.
Windshield wiper rainlamp feature (if equipped with autolamp)
When the windshield wipers are turned on during daylight, and the
headlamp control is in the autolamp position, the exterior lamps will turn
on after a brief delay and will remain on until the wipers are turned off.
Rear window wiper/washer controls
For rear wiper operation, rotate the
rear window wiper and washer
control to the desired position.
Select:
2 — Intermittent operation
(shortest pause between wipes).
1 — Intermittent operation (longest
pause between wipes).
O (off) — Rear wiper and washer off.
For rear wash cycle, rotate (and hold as desired) the rear wiper/washer
control to either
position.
From either position, the control will automatically return to the 2 or O
(off) position.
2
1
0
2
1
0
Driver Controls
93
2011 Explorer(exp)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

Power distribution box
The power distribution box is located in the engine compartment. The
power distribution box contains high-current fuses that protect your
vehicle’s main electrical systems from overloads.
WARNING:Always disconnect the battery before servicing high
current fuses.
WARNING:To reduce risk of electrical shock, always replace
the cover to the power distribution box before reconnecting the
battery or refilling fluid reservoirs.
If the battery has been disconnected and reconnected, refer to the
Batterysection of theMaintenance and Specificationschapter.
The high-current fuses are coded as follows:
Fuse/Relay
LocationFuse Amp
RatingPower Distribution Box Description
1 — Not used
2 — Not used
3 30A** Trailer brake control module
4 30A** Wipers, Front washer
5 50A** Anti-lock brake system (ABS) pump
97
98
77969594
93 92 91 90 89
88
66
4478
56
39
26
18 1617
312 4 5 6 7 8 919 20 21 22 23 2427 28 29 30 3140 41 42 4355
57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 6579 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87
67
45
32
10 11 12 1333 34 3546 47 48 49 50 5168 69 70 71 72 74
73 76
75
53
37 36 54
38
25
151452
Roadside Emergencies
332
2011 Explorer(exp)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

WINDOWS AND WIPER BLADES
The windshield, rear and side windows and the wiper blades should be
cleaned regularly. If the wipers do not wipe properly, substances on the
vehicle’s glass or the wiper blades may be the cause. These may include
hot wax treatments used by commercial car washes, water repellent
coatings, tree sap, or other organic contamination; these contaminants
may cause squeaking or chatter noise from the blades, and streaking and
smearing of the windshield. To clean these items, follow these tips:
•The windshield, rear windows and side windows may be cleaned with
a non-abrasive cleaner such as MotorcraftUltra-Clear Spray Glass
Cleaner (ZC-23), available from your authorized dealer.
•The wiper blades can be cleaned with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol or
MotorcraftPremium Windshield Washer Concentrate (ZC-32-A) in
the U.S., or Premium Quality Windshield Washer Fluid [CXC-37-(A, B,
D, or F)] in Canada, available from your authorized dealer. This
washer fluid contains special solution in addition to alcohol which
helps to remove the hot wax deposited on the wiper blade and
windshield from automated car wash facilities. Be sure to replace
wiper blades when they appear worn or do not function properly.
•Do not use abrasives, as they may cause scratches.
•Do not use fuel, kerosene, or paint thinner to clean any parts.
If you cannot remove those streaks after cleaning with the glass cleaner
or if the wipers chatter and move in a jerky motion, clean the outer
surface of the windshield and the wiper blades using a sponge or soft
cloth with a neutral detergent or mild-abrasive cleaning solution. After
cleaning, rinse the windshield and wiper blades with clean water. The
windshield is clean if beads do not form when you rinse the windshield
with water.
Do not use sharp objects, such as a razor blade, to clean the
inside of the rear window or to remove decals, as it may cause
damage to the rear window defroster’s heated grid lines.
INSTRUMENT PANEL/INTERIOR TRIM AND CLUSTER LENS
Clean the instrument panel, interior trim areas and cluster lens with a
clean, damp, white cotton cloth, then use a clean and dry white cotton
cloth to dry these areas.
•Avoid cleaners or polishes that increase the gloss of the upper portion
of the instrument panel. The dull finish in this area helps protect the
driver from undesirable windshield reflection.
Cleaning
370
2011 Explorer(exp)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID
Add fluid to fill the reservoir if the
level is low. In very cold weather, do
not fill the reservoir completely.
Only use a washer fluid that meets Ford specifications. Do not use any
special washer fluid such as windshield water repellent type fluid or bug
wash. They may cause squeaking, chatter noise, streaking and smearing.
Refer to theMaintenance product specifications and capacities
section in this chapter.
State or local regulations on volatile organic compounds may restrict the
use of methanol, a common windshield washer antifreeze additive.
Washer fluids containing non-methanol antifreeze agents should be used
only if they provide cold weather protection without damaging the
vehicle’s paint finish, wiper blades or washer system.
WARNING:If you operate your vehicle in temperatures below
40°F (5°C), use washer fluid with antifreeze protection. Failure
to use washer fluid with antifreeze protection in cold weather could
result in impaired windshield vision and increase the risk of injury or
accident.
Do not put washer fluid in the engine coolant reservoir. Washer
fluid placed in the cooling system may harm engine and cooling
system components.
Checking and adding washer fluid for the liftgate
Washer fluid for the liftgate is supplied by the same reservoir as the
windshield.
Maintenance and Specifications
378
2011 Explorer(exp)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

Cooling system
•Protect against freezing temperatures.
•When removing vehicle from storage, check coolant fluid level.
Confirm there are no cooling system leaks, and fluid is at the
recommended level.
Battery
•Check and recharge as necessary. Keep connections clean.
•If storing your vehicle for more than 30 days without recharging the
battery, it may be advisable to disconnect the battery cables to ensure
battery charge is maintained for quick starting.
Note:If battery cables are disconnected, it will be necessary to reset
memory features.
Brakes
•Make sure brakes and parking brake are fully released.
Tires
•Maintain recommended air pressure.
Miscellaneous
•Make sure all linkages, cables, levers and pins under vehicle are
covered with grease to prevent rust.
•Move vehicles at least 25 feet (8 m) every 15 days to lubricate
working parts and prevent corrosion.
Removing vehicle from storage
When your vehicle is ready to come out of storage, do the following:
•Wash your vehicle to remove any dirt or grease film build-up on
window surfaces.
•Check windshield wipers for any deterioration.
•Check under the hood for any foreign material that may have collected
during storage (mice/squirrel nests).
•Check the exhaust for any foreign material that may have collected
during storage.
•Check tire pressures and set tire inflation per the Tire Label.
•Check brake pedal operation. Drive the vehicle 15 ft (4.5 meters) back
and forth to remove rust build-up.
Maintenance and Specifications
409
2011 Explorer(exp)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

Owner checks and services
Certain basic maintenance checks and inspections should be performed
by the owner or a service technician at the intervals indicated. Service
information and supporting specifications are provided in this owner’s
guide.
Any adverse condition should be brought to the attention of your dealer
or qualified service technician as soon as possible for the proper service
advice. The owner maintenance service checks are generally not covered
by warranties so you may be charged for labor, parts or fluids used.
Engine oil/coolant change intervals
Engine oilAs indicated by the message center (can be up
to one year or 10,000 miles [16,000 km])
Engine coolant,
initial change6 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km)
(whichever comes first)
Engine coolant,
after initial changeEvery 3 years or 50,000 miles (80,000 km)
Check every month
Engine oil level
Function of all interior and exterior lights
Tires for wear and proper pressure, including spare
Windshield washer fluid level
Check every six months
Battery connections; clean if necessary
Body and door drain holes for obstructions; clean if necessary
Cooling system fluid level and coolant strength
Door weatherstrips for wear; lubricate if necessary
Hinges/latches/outside locks for proper operation; lubricate if necessary
Parking brake for proper operation
Safety belts and seat latches for wear and function
Safety warning lamps (brake, ABS, airbag, safety belt) for operation
Washer spray/wiper operation; clean or replace blades as necessary
Scheduled Maintenance Guide
426
2011 Explorer(exp)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

Multi-point inspection
In order to keep your vehicle running right, it is important to have the
systems on your vehicle checked regularly. This can help identify
potential issues and prevent major problems. Ford Motor Company
recommends the following multi-point inspection be performed at every
scheduled maintenance interval to help ensure your vehicle keeps
running great.
Multi-point inspection – Recommended each visit
Accessory drive belt(s) Half-shaft dust boots (if equipped)
Battery performance Horn operation
Clutch operation (if equipped) Radiator, cooler, heater and A/C hoses
Engine air filter Suspension components for leaks and
damage
Exhaust system Steering and linkage
Exterior lamps and hazard
warning system operationTires for wear and proper pressure,
including spare
Fluid levels*; fill if necessary Windshield for cracks, chips or pits
For oil and fluid leaks Washer spray and wiper operation
*Brake, coolant recovery reservoir, manual and automatic transmission
(with an underhood dipstick), power steering (if equipped) and
window washer
Be sure to ask your dealership service advisor or technician about the
multi-point vehicle inspection. It’s a comprehensive way to perform a
thorough inspection of your vehicle. It’s your checklist that gives you
immediate feedback on the overall condition of your vehicle. You’ll know
what’s been checked, what’s okay, as well as those things that may
require future or immediate attention. The multi-point vehicle inspection
is one more way to keep your vehicle running great!
Scheduled Maintenance Guide
427
2011 Explorer(exp)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

Changing a tire .........................336
Child safety seats ......................216
in front seat ............................217
in rear seat ..............................217
LATCH .....................................222
recommendations ...................214
tether anchorage hardware ...224
Child safety seats - booster
seats ...........................................228
Cleaning your vehicle
engine compartment ..............369
instrument panel ....................370
interior .....................................371
plastic parts ............................369
washing ....................................367
waxing .....................................368
wheels ......................................368
wiper blades ............................370
Climate control
(see Air conditioning or
Heating) ...........................63, 66, 68
Clock ............................................52
Collision Warning System .........300
Console ..................................95–96
overhead ....................................95
rear ............................................96
Controls
power seat ...............................163
steering column ......................113
Coolant
checking and adding ..............385
refill capacities ................388, 411
specifications ..........................411
Cross Traffic Alert ....................310
Cruise control
(see Speed control) ..................103
Customer Assistance ................325Ford Extended Service
Plan ..................................419, 422
Getting assistance outside
the U.S. and Canada ..............363
Getting roadside assistance ...325
Getting the service you
need .........................................359
Ordering additional owner’s
literature .................................365
Utilizing the
Mediation/Arbitration
Program ...................................363
D
Daytime running lamps
(see Lamps) ................................79
Defrost
rear window ..............................75
Dipstick
automatic transmission
fluid ..........................................404
engine oil .................................380
Driving under special
conditions ..................293, 317, 320
sand .........................................319
snow and ice ...........................321
through water .................319, 324
E
Electronic message center ...23, 34
Emergencies, roadside
jump-starting ..........................354
running out of fuel .........353, 396
Emission control system ..........401
Engine ........................................414
cleaning ...................................369
coolant .....................................385
fail-safe cooling .......................390
Index
443
2011 Explorer(exp)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)