•While driving in desert conditions, the midpoint of the day is the most
difficult time to see many of the small ridges and dips due toflat
shadowsfrom the sun being at its highest point. Extreme care should
be taken at these times to not inadvertently run into these obstacles.
•It is highly encouraged that you switch to off-road mode and perform
anAdvanceTrac single pressto ensure improved off-road braking
performance under these conditions. Be sure to disengage the
off-road modeand switch back toAdvanceTrac key-on modebefore
performing any street driving. Please see the Off-road mode section of
this supplement for more details.
After off-road driving
It is important to complete a full vehicle inspection after off-road driving.
Some items to check include:
•Ensure that tires are inflated to proper tire pressure as indicated on
the tire placard.
•Check the wheels and undercarriage for built up mud or debris which
can cause vehicle vibration.
•Ensure that the grille and radiator are clear of any obstructions that
may affect cooling.
•Ensure that the brakes are in proper working order and free of any
mud, stones etc., which can become trapped around the brake rotor,
backing plate and caliper.
•Check that the air filter is clean and dry.
•Inspect for torn or punctured boots on ball joints, half shafts, steering
gears.
•Inspect exhaust system for damage or looseness.
•Inspect undercarriage fasteners. If any are loose or damaged, tighten
or replace ensuring that the proper torque specification is used.
•Inspect the tires for any cuts in the tread or sidewall area. Also
inspect the sidewall for any bulge indicating damage to the tire.
•Inspect the wheels for dents, cracks, or other damage.
Driving
25
2012 F-150(f12)
Supplement, 1st Printing
USA(fus)
IMPORTANT TIRE INFORMATION
Your SVT vehicle is equipped with unique wheels and tires designed to
enhance performance and appearance. To continue providing this
performance, extra care must be taken when operating and maintaining
your vehicle.
TIRES
Your SVT vehicle is equipped with high performance, all-terrain tires that
are designed to optimize handling, steering and braking to provide the
performance you expect in an SVT vehicle. These tires are optimized for
both on and off-road performance, and their ride, noise and wear
characteristics are different than other tires. Also, because of their
aggressive tread profile, it is important that you maintain your tires
properly.
•Always maintain your tire pressures according to the tire information
placard located on the driver’s door B-pillar, using an accurate gauge.
Note:If tire pressure has been reduced for off-road use, the tire
pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warning light will then activate in
the instrument panel as a reminder to reinflate the tires before
returning to the road.
Remember to be prepared to re-inflate your tires before returning to
the road. If a tire filling station is not available, remember to prepare a
supplemental means to inflate the tires, such as a portable
compressor.
WARNING:Always re-inflate tires to recommended tire
pressures before the vehicle is operated on-road. The
recommended pressure is located on the tire placard label or safety
certification label, located on the B-pillar, inside the driver’s door.
WARNING:Always check tires and wheels for damage before
returning to the road. Off-road use may cause damage to your
tires and wheels that could result in tire failure.
•Tire pressures are specified “cold” and should be checked after the
vehicle has been parked for at least three hours. Do not reduce
pressure of warm tires.
•Check your tire pressure often to maintain it properly. Tire pressure
can diminish over time and fluctuate with temperature.
Tire Information
32
2012 F-150(f12)
Supplement, 1st Printing
USA(fus)
