2013 FORD C MAX Owners Manual

HYBRID VEHICLE OPERATION (C-MAX HYBRID AND C-MAX ENERGI)
This hybrid vehicle combines electric and gasoline propulsion to provide
breakthrough performance and improved efficiency. Familiarizing yourself
with these unique characteristics will provide an optimal driving experience
from your new vehicle.
Note:You may notice higher engine speeds upon start-up. This
temporary condition is normal and necessary to heat up the cabin and
minimize emissions.
Starting:When you start your vehicle, a green ready indicator
light will appear in the lower right portion of the instrument
cluster and a ready to drive message will appear in the middle
of the left cluster screen, letting you know that the vehicle is ready for
driving.
The engine may not start because this hybrid vehicle is equipped with
silent key start. This fuel saving feature allows your vehicle to be
ready-to-drive without requiring the gas engine to be running. This
indicator will remain on while the vehicle is on, whether the engine is
running or not to indicate the vehicle is capable of movement (using its
electric motor, engine, or both). Typically, the engine will not start unless
the vehicle is cold, a climate control change is requested, or the
accelerator is pressed.
Driving:The gas engine automatically starts and stops to provide power
when it’s needed and to save fuel when it’s not. While coasting at low
speeds, coming to a stop, or standing, the gas engine normally shuts
down and the vehicle operates in electric-only mode. Conditions that
may cause the engine to start up or remain running include:
•considerable vehicle acceleration
•vehicle speed above 60 mph (96 km/h) For C-MAX Energi vehicles,
you can drive up to 85 mph (137 km/h) in EV mode.
•ascending a hill
•charge level of high voltage battery is low
•very high or low outside temperature (to provide system cooling or
heating) For C-MAX Energi vehicles, climate control demands by
passengers do not directly cause the engine to run. This only occurs
when the high voltage battery charge is low.
•engine not warm enough to provide passenger requested cabin
temperature
Stopping:The gas engine may shut off to conserve fuel as you come
to a stop. Restarting the vehicle is not required. Simply step on the
accelerator when you are ready to drive.
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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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Additional Tips:
•Do not carry extra loads
•Be mindful of adding external accessories that may increase
aerodynamic drag
•Observe posted speed limits
•Perform all scheduled maintenance
•There is no need to wait for your engine to warm up. The vehicle is
ready to drive immediately after starting
EV+ Mode
Your vehicle will recognize your frequent destinations and allow for more
EV driving as you approach them. For example, when nearing your home
it should be easier to stay in electric mode. The EV indicator will display
EV+ when this mode is active. You should see this approximately
1/8 mile (200 meters) from a frequent destination.
Note:Frequent destinations are learned by your vehicle after two to
four weeks of use. These destinations can be cleared with a Lifetime
Summary reset through the Settings menu.
Note:The EV+ feature can be turned on or off through the Driver Assist
section of the Settings menu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question Answer
What are the
series of clicks
from the cargo
area when I first
turn the key in
the ignition?The high voltage battery is electrically isolated from
the rest of the vehicle when the key is off. When
the key is turned to on, high voltage contactors
inside the battery are closed to make the electricity
available to the motor/generator and enable the
vehicle to drive. The clicks are the sound of these
contactors as they close and open during start up
and shut down.
Why does the
engine sometimes
start at key-on?The vehicle’s computer will determine if an engine
start is required at key-on. Silent key start will start
the engine if it is necessary for cabin heating,
windshield defrost, or if the outside temperature is
low. (For C-MAX Energi vehicles, engine on is not
required to operate these functions.)
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Question Answer
Why does it take
a long time
before the engine
shuts down?There are several reasons the engine stays on for an
extended amount of time when it is first started.
One common reason is to ensure that the emissions
components are warm enough to minimize tailpipe
emissions. As the climate gets cooler, this engine-on
time is extended.
Why does my
engine never
shut down
above 60 mph
(96 km/h)?The engine is required to turn on above this speed
to protect the transmission hardware. (For C-MAX
Energi vehicles, you can travel up to 85 mph
[137 km/h] in EV mode.)
Why does my
engine stay
on when it’s
extremely cold
outside?In order to ensure that the climate control system
can begin heating the cabin or defrosting the
windshield as soon as a driver requests it, the
engine coolant temperature has to be kept
sufficiently hot. Keeping the engine on is required
to maintain the correct minimum temperature.
(For C-MAX Energi vehicles, this is not required to
maintain cabin conditions.)
Why does my
engine rev up so
high sometimes
when I
accelerate?Your vehicle’s engine and transmission are designed
to deliver the power you need at the most efficient
engine speed. This may be higher than expected
during heavy accelerations, and may fluctuate
during steady state driving. These are
characteristics of the Atkinson engine cycle and the
eCVT transmission technology that help maximize
your hybrid’s fuel economy.
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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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SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
WARNING:Do not overfill the fuel tank. The pressure in an
overfilled tank may cause leakage and lead to fuel spray and fire.
WARNING:The fuel system may be under pressure. If you hear
a hissing sound near the fuel filler inlet, do not refuel until the
sound stops. Otherwise, fuel may spray out, which could cause serious
personal injury.
WARNING:Automotive fuels can cause serious injury or death if
misused or mishandled.
WARNING:The flow of fuel through a fuel pump nozzle can
produce static electricity, which can cause a fire if fuel is pumped
into an ungrounded fuel container.
WARNING:Fuel ethanol and gasoline may contain benzene,
which is a cancer-causing agent.
WARNING:When refueling always shut the engine off and never
allow sparks or open flames near the filler neck. Never smoke
while refueling. Fuel vapor is extremely hazardous under certain
conditions. Care should be taken to avoid inhaling excess fumes.
Observe the following guidelines when handling automotive fuel:
•Extinguish all smoking materials and any open flames before refueling
your vehicle.
•Always turn off the vehicle before refueling.
•Automotive fuels can be harmful or fatal if swallowed. Fuel, such as
gasoline, is highly toxic and if swallowed can cause death or
permanent injury. If fuel is swallowed, call a physician immediately,
even if no symptoms are immediately apparent. The toxic effects of
fuel may not be visible for hours.
•Avoid inhaling fuel vapors. Inhaling too much fuel vapor of any kind
can lead to eye and respiratory tract irritation. In severe cases,
excessive or prolonged breathing of fuel vapor can cause serious
illness and permanent injury.
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•Avoid getting fuel liquid in your eyes. If fuel is splashed in the eyes,
remove contact lenses (if worn), flush with water for 15 minutes and
seek medical attention. Failure to seek proper medical attention could
lead to permanent injury.
•Fuels can also be harmful if absorbed through the skin. If fuel is
splashed on the skin or clothing, promptly remove contaminated
clothing and wash skin thoroughly with soap and water. Repeated or
prolonged skin contact with fuel liquid or vapor causes skin irritation.
•Be particularly careful if you are taking Antabuse or other forms of
disulfiram for the treatment of alcoholism. Breathing gasoline vapors,
or skin contact could cause an adverse reaction. In sensitive
individuals, serious personal injury or sickness may result. If fuel is
splashed on the skin, promptly wash skin thoroughly with soap and
water. Consult a physician immediately if you experience an adverse
reaction.
FUEL QUALITY
Note:Use of any fuel other than those recommended may cause
powertrain damage and a loss of vehicle performance; repairs may not be
covered under warranty.
Your vehicle was not designed to use fuel or fuel additives with metallic
compounds, including manganese-based additives.
Choosing the Right Fuel
Use only UNLEADED fuel or UNLEADED fuel blended with a maximum
of 15% ethanol. Do not use fuel ethanol (E85), diesel fuel, fuel-methanol,
leaded fuel or any other fuel because it could damage or impair the
emission control system.
Your vehicle was not designed to use fuel or fuel additives with metallic
compounds, including manganese-based additives. The use of leaded fuel
is prohibited by law.
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