2013 FORD C MAX HYBRID light

Transmission Operation:Due to the technologically advanced,
electronically-controlled continuously variable transaxle, you will not
feel shift changes like those of a non-hybrid vehicle.
Note:Since engine speed is controlled by the transmission, it may seem
elevated at times. This is normal hybrid operation and helps deliver fuel
efficiency and performance.
Neutral:It is not recommended to idle the vehicle in positionNfor
extended periods of time because this will discharge your high voltage
battery and decrease fuel economy. The engine will not start, and cannot
provide power to the hybrid system in positionN.
Low Gear:Low gear (positionL) is designed to mimic the enhanced
engine braking available in non-hybrid vehicles. Low gear will produce
high engine speeds to provide necessary engine braking. This is normal
and will not damage your vehicle. In low gear, the gas engine will remain
on more often than in positionD.
Reverse:In positionR, vehicle speed is limited to 22 mph (35 km/h).
Unique Hybrid Operating Characteristics
Your hybrid behaves differently compared to a non-hybrid. Here is a
description of the major differences:
Battery:Your hybrid is equipped with a high voltage battery. A cool
battery ensures battery life and provides the best possible performance.
Your hybrid high voltage battery may periodically re-condition itself to
ensure maximum efficiency. You may notice slight changes in drivability
during this process, but it’s an important part of your hybrid’s high
voltage battery optimization features.
The high voltage battery is cooled by cabin air drawn from vent holes in
the trim panels behind the rear seats. Avoid placing objects at the vent
holes which block air flow to the high voltage battery.
The high voltage battery is located behind the rear seat or underneath
the load floor. The rear seats can be lowered to increase cargo space.
If the vehicle is left inoperative for over 31 days, it may be necessary
to jump start the vehicle. Refer toJump starting the vehiclein the
Roadside Emergencieschapter and also seeLow and high voltage
battery – storagein theVehicle Carechapter.
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Engine:The engine speed in your hybrid is not directly tied to your
vehicle speed. Your vehicle’s engine and transmission are designed to
deliver the power you need at the most efficient engine speed. During
heavy accelerations, your hybrid may reach high engine speeds (up to
6000 rpm).
In prolonged mountainous driving, you may see the engine tachometer
changing without your input. This is intentional and maintains the
battery charge level. You may also notice during extended downhill
driving that your engine continues to run instead of shutting off.
During this engine braking, the engine stays on, but it’s not using any
fuel. You may also hear a slight whine or whistle when operating your
vehicle. This is the normal operation of the electric generator in the
hybrid system.
During certain events (such as vehicle servicing) your low voltage
(underhood) battery may become disconnected or disabled. Once the
battery is reconnected and after driving the vehicle, the engine may
continue to operate for three to five seconds after the key is turned to
off. This is a normal condition.
Braking:Your hybrid is equipped with standard hydraulic braking and
regenerative braking. Regenerative braking is performed by your vehicle
computer housed with the transmission and it commands a portion of
the brake energy stored in your high voltage battery.
Driving to Optimize Fuel Economy
Note:Having your engine running is not always an indication of
inefficiency. In some cases, it is actually more efficient than driving in
electric mode.
Your fuel economy should improve throughout your hybrid’s break-in
period. As with any vehicle, fuel economy can be significantly impacted
by your driving habits, accessory usage, temperature and terrain.
For best results, keep in mind these tips:
•Keep the tires properly inflated and only use the recommended size.
•Aggressive driving increases the amount of energy required to move
your vehicle. In general, better fuel economy is achieved with mild to
moderate acceleration and deceleration. Moderate braking is
particularly important since it allows you to maximize the energy
captured by the regenerative braking system.
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Question Answer
What is the fan
noise I hear from
the rear of my
hybrid?The fan noise comes from a fan located inside the
high voltage battery. This fan turns on when the
battery requires cooling air. The fan speed, and
associated noise level, will change according to
the amount of cooling required to maintain good
performance. Maintaining the battery temperature at
optimal conditions also prolongs the useful life of
the battery and helps to achieve better fuel
economy.
What is the
engine oil change
service interval?The engine oil should be changed every 10000 miles
(16000 km) under normal operating conditions. See
theScheduled maintenance information.
Can I put E15 or
E85 in my
vehicle, and how
will it affect my
fuel economy?Your hybrid vehicle can use E15 (15% ethanol, 85%
gasoline) fuel, but you may notice slightly reduced
fuel economy because ethanol contains less energy
per gallon than gasoline. Your hybrid vehicle is not
designed to use E85 (85% ethanol).
How long will my
high voltage
battery last?
Does it need
maintenance?The high voltage battery system is designed to last
the life of the vehicle and requires no maintenance.
Can you charge
the battery with
aplugintoan
A/C outlet?There are no provisions for charging the high
voltage battery from a power supply external to the
vehicle. (For C-MAX Energi vehicles, the vehicle can
be plugged into a 110 volt outlet with charge cord
provided.)
Can I tow the
hybrid behind my
motor home with
all four wheels
down?Yes. Your hybrid vehicle can be flat-towed without
modification. See theRecreational towingsection
in theTowingchapter for more information.
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Octane Recommendations
Regular unleaded gasoline with a
pump (R+M)/2 octane rating of 87 is
recommended. Some stations offer
fuels posted as Regular with an
octane rating below 87, particularly
in high altitude areas. Fuels with octane levels below 87 are not
recommended.
Regular unleaded gasoline with a pump (R+M)/2 octane rating of 87 is
recommended. Some stations offer fuels posted as “Regular” with an
octane rating below 87, particularly in high altitude areas. Fuels with
octane levels below 87 are not recommended.
Do not be concerned if your engine sometimes knocks lightly. However, if
it knocks heavily under most driving conditions while you are using fuel
with the recommended octane rating, see your authorized dealer to
prevent any engine damage.
Fuel Freshness Mode (Energi Vehicles Only)
This feature helps keeps the fuel system functional and the fuel fresh.
If you operate your vehicle mainly in plug-in power mode using
electricity from plugging in without refueling, the gasoline in your tank
eventually becomes old. Old fuel can damage the engine and fuel system.
To prevent the fuel from becoming old, your vehicle will automatically
enter fuel freshness mode. In fuel freshness mode operates, your vehicle
will operate in hybrid mode causing the gasoline engine to run in order
to consume the fuel in the fuel tank.
Note:
If new fuel is not added during an 18 month period, fuel freshness
mode will consume fuel until about 1 gallon (3.8 liters) is left in the tank.
During fuel freshness mode:
•The information display screen will indicate that fuel freshness mode
is active.
•The vehicle will only run in hybrid mode. EV Now mode will not be
available.
•Most of the plug-in power will be stored until fuel freshness mode is
completed.
87(R+M)/2 METHOD
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Your vehicle is equipped with various emission control components
and a catalytic converter which will enable your vehicle to comply with
applicable exhaust emission standards. To make sure that the catalytic
converter and other emission control components continue to work
properly:
•Use only the specified fuel listed.
•Avoid running out of fuel.
•Do not turn off the ignition while your vehicle is moving, especially at
high speeds.
•Have the items listed inScheduled Maintenance Information
performed according to the specified schedule.
The scheduled maintenance items listed inScheduled Maintenance
Informationare essential to the life and performance of your vehicle
and to its emissions system.
If other than Ford, Motorcraft® or Ford-authorized parts are used 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.
Illumination of the service engine soon 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.
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.
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 emission warranty
information.
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Charging Equipment
Your vehicle comes equipped with a standard 120-volt convenience cord
located in the floor compartment behind the driver’s seat.
Note:The 120–volt convenience cord allows you to charge the
high-voltage battery using a standard 120-volt household outlet.
Using the standard 120-volt convenience cord takes up to 7 hours
to completely charge from an empty battery.
Ford recommends upgrading to the
optional 240-volt charging station
for faster more efficient charging.
Use of a 240-volt charging station
will take approximately 2
12hours
to fully charge a empty battery.
Note:Your electrical source must meet certain requirements for the
high-voltage batteries to charge. The AC outlet must be a three-prong
110-120 volt AC outlet that is properly grounded, 15–20 amps (or
greater), and in good condition. The line also must be dedicated, which
means that no other appliances should be connected to the same circuit.
If a dedicated circuit is not used, the circuit breaker could trip or open.
If a dedicated circuit is not available, contact a licensed professional
electrician for proper installation.
Make sure that the 120 volt convenience cord is completely unwound
before charging. Always plug the cord into the AC outlet before
connecting the charging coupler into the vehicle’s charge port receptacle.
The 120 volt convenience cord inline control box has three indicator
lights that represent the charging status; power, charge and fault.
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Power (green light)— this indicator lights up when the cord is
plugged into the AC wall outlet.
Charge (green light)— Indicates status of charging:
•No light means the cord is not connected to the vehicle.
•Blinking light means that the charging is in process.
•Solid light means that the vehicle is connected but not charging.
Fault (red triangle light)— Lights up in case of a detected failure.
No charging is possible:
•Blinking red triangle light – means that the 120 volt convenience cord
is trying to reset the failure and could restart the charging cycle.
•Solid red triangle light – means that the fault is permanent. The cord
needs to be unplugged and re-plugged to reset the fault. If the fault
persists, contact your authorized dealer.
Charge Port and Light Ring
The charge port is located between
the front left side door and front
left wheel well. There is an
indentation located on the charge
port door. Press with your thumb to
press to open and close the door.
Note:Do not force the charge port door open or closed. Forcing the
door open or closed will damage the charge port.
The light ring located around the charge port indicates the charge status
of your vehicle’s high-voltage battery. The charge port light ring is
divided into four quadrants which display state of charge in 25 percent
increments.
There is a cord acknowledgment feature that will be activated when a
charge cycle is initiated. The four light quadrants will each individually
flash clockwise starting with the top right light and ending with the top
left, two full times confirming a charging coupler has been detected.
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You can use your keyfob to view the vehicles charge status at any
time by pressing the unlock button. The light ring will light up the
corresponding quadrant(s) so that the current state of charge can be
determined. If the charge is below 25 percent the light ring will not
illuminate. Don’t forget to press the lock button on your keyfob to
re-lock the vehicle.
The light ring will also display the current state of charge when opening
the doors.
Charging
Note:The vehicle must be inP
(Park) to charge the high-voltage
battery.
To charge your high-voltage battery:
1. Put the vehicle inP(Park) and
power down the vehicle.
2. With your thumb, press the indentation located on the charge port
door and the door will rotate open.
3. Plug the charging coupler into the vehicles charge port receptacle and
make sure the button “clicks” confirming that it is completely engaged.
4. Verify that the cord acknowledgement feature activates. This indicates
the beginning of a normal charge cycle.
5. If using a 240 volt charging station, follow the instructions on the
charge station to begin the charging process.
When charging, the light ring will display how far along the charge is:
•When the top right quadrant is pulsing the charge is between
0–25 percent.
•When the top right quadrant is solidly lit and the bottom right
quadrant is pulsing the charge is between 25–50 percent.
•When both right side quadrants are solidly lit and the bottom left
quadrant is pulsing the charge is between 50–75 percent.
•When three quadrants are solidly lit and the top left quadrant is
pulsing the charge is between 75–100 percent.
•When the entire ring is solidly lit, the charge is complete.
Note:The illuminated ring will shut off one minute after reaching a full
charge.
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