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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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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Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) Testing
Some state, provincial and local governments may have
Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) programs to inspect the emission control
equipment on your vehicle. Failure to pass this inspection could prevent
you from getting a vehicle registration.
If the service engine soon indicator is on or the bulb does not
work, the vehicle may need to be serviced. SeeOn-board
Diagnostics (OBD-II)in this chapter.
Your vehicle may not pass the I/M test if the service engine soon
indicator is on or not working properly (bulb is burned out), or if the
OBD-II system has determined that some of the emission control systems
have not been properly checked. In this case, the vehicle is considered
not ready for I/M testing.
If the vehicle’s engine or transmission has just been serviced, or the
battery has recently run down or been replaced, the OBD-II system may
indicate that the vehicle is not ready for I/M testing. To determine if the
vehicle is ready for I/M testing, turn the ignition key to the on position
for 15 seconds without cranking the engine. If the service engine soon
indicator blinks eight times, it means that the vehicle is not ready for I/M
testing; if the service engine soon indicator stays on solid, it means that
the vehicle is ready for I/M testing.
The OBD-II system is designed to check the emission control system
during normal driving. A complete check may take several days. If the
vehicle is not ready for I/M testing, the following driving cycle consisting
of mixed city and highway driving may be performed:
15 minutes of steady driving on an expressway or highway followed by
20 minutes of stop-and-go driving with at least four 30-second idle
periods.
Allow the vehicle to sit for at least eight hours without starting the
engine. Then, start the engine and complete the above driving cycle.
The engine must warm up to its normal operating temperature. Once the
engine is started, do not turn off the engine until the above driving cycle
is complete. If the vehicle is still not ready for I/M testing, the above
driving cycle will have to be repeated.
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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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AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
WARNING:Always set the parking brake fully and make sure
the gearshift is latched inP(Park). Turn the ignition to the off
position and remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle
WARNING:When parking, do not use the gearshift in place of
the parking brake. Always set the parking brake fully and make
sure that the gearshift is securely latched inP(Park). Turn off the
ignition whenever you leave your vehicle. Never leave your vehicle
unattended while it is running. If you do not take these precautions,
your vehicle may move unexpectedly and injure someone.
P (Park)
This position locks the transmission
and prevents the front wheels from
turning.
To put your vehicle in gear:
1. Start the engine
2. Release the parking brake
3. Press the brake pedal
4. Move the gearshift lever into the
desired gear
To put your vehicle inP(Park):
1. Come to a complete stop
2. Move the gearshift lever and securely latch it inP(Park)
R (Reverse)
With the gearshift lever inR(Reverse), the vehicle will move backward.
Always come to a complete stop before shifting into and out ofR
(Reverse).
N (Neutral)
With the gearshift lever inN(Neutral), the vehicle is free to roll; hold
the brake pedal down while in this position. Because of the unique
nature of the hybrid vehicle, the engine will not start in theN(Neutral)
position.
The vehicle does not charge the high voltage battery in theN(Neutral)
position. Do not idle the vehicle inN(Neutral) for extended periods as
this will discharge your high voltage battery.
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In the event of damage or fire involving an electric vehicle (EV) or
hybrid-electric vehicle (HEV):
•Always assume the high-voltage battery and associated components
are energized and fully charged.
•Exposed electrical components, wires, and high-voltage batteries
present potential high-voltage shock hazards.
•Venting/off-gassing high-voltage battery vapors are potentially toxic
and flammable.
•Physical damage to the vehicle or high-voltage battery may result in
immediate or delayed release of toxic and/or flammable gases and fire.
Vehicle information and general safety practices:
•Know the make and model of your vehicle.
•Review the Owner’s Manual and become familiar with your vehicle’s
safety information and recommended safety practices.
•Do not attempt to repair damaged electric and hybrid-electric vehicles
yourself. Contact an authorized Ford Dealer or vehicle manufacturer
representative for service.
Crashes
A crash or impact significant enough to require an emergency response
for conventional vehicles would also require the same response for an
electric or hybrid-electric vehicle.
If possible
•Move your car to a safe, nearby location and remain on the scene.
•Roll down windows before shutting vehicle off.
•Place vehicle in Park, set parking brake, turn off the vehicle, activate
hazard lights, and move key(s) at least 16 feet (5 meters) away from
the vehicle.
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ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
Vehicles Sold in the U.S.: Getting Roadside Assistance
To fully assist you should you have a vehicle concern, Ford Motor
Company offers a complimentary roadside assistance program.
This program is separate from the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
The service is available:
•24 hours a day, seven days a week
•for the coverage period listed on the Roadside Assistance Card
included in your owner’s manual portfolio.
Roadside assistance will cover:
•a flat tire change with a good spare (except vehicles that have been
supplied with a tire inflation kit).
•battery jump start.
•lock-out assistance (key replacement cost is the customer’s
responsibility).
•fuel delivery – Independent Service Contractors, if not prohibited by
state, local or municipal law, shall deliver up to 2.0 gallons (7.5 liters)
of gasoline or 5.0 gallons (18.9 liters) of diesel fuel to a disabled
vehicle. Fuel delivery service is limited to two no-charge occurrences
within a 12-month period.
•winch out – available within 100 feet (30.5 meters) of a paved or
county maintained road, no recoveries.
•towing – Ford and Lincoln eligible vehicles towed to an authorized
dealer within 35 miles (56 kilometers) of the disablement location or
to the nearest authorized dealer. If a member requests to be towed to
an authorized dealer more than 35 miles (56 kilometers) from the
disablement location, the member shall be responsible for any mileage
costs in excess of 35 miles (56 kilometers).
Trailers shall be covered up to $200 if the disabled eligible vehicle
requires service at the nearest authorized dealer. If the trailer is disabled,
but the towing vehicle is operational, the trailer does not qualify for any
roadside services.
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