Ignition Modes
Off:Turns the ignition off.
•Without applying the brake pedal, press and release the button once
when the ignition is in the on mode, or when the engine is running
but the vehicle is not in motion.
On:All electrical circuits are operational. Warning lamps and indicators
are illuminated.
•Without applying the brake pedal, press and release the button once
from off mode.
Start:Starts the engine.
•
Press the brake pedal, and then press the button until the engine starts.
STARTING A GASOLINE ENGINE
When you start the engine, the idle speed increases, this helps to warm
up the engine. If the engine idle speed does not slow down automatically,
have your vehicle checked by an authorized dealer.
Before starting the engine check the following:
•Make sure all occupants have fastened their safety belts.
•Make sure the headlamps and electrical accessories are off.
•Make sure the parking brake is on.
•Make sure the gearshift is in positionP.
•Turn the ignition key to positionII.If your vehicle is equipped with a
keyless ignition, see the following instructions.
Vehicles with an Ignition Key
Note:Do not touch the accelerator pedal.
1. Fully press the brake pedal.
2. Turn the key to positionIII.Release the key when the engine starts.
Note:The engine may continue cranking for up to 15 seconds or until it
starts.
Note:If you cannot start the engine on the first try, wait for a short
period and try again.
START
STOP ENGINE
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PLUG-IN POWER MODE AND HYBRID MODE (C-MAX ENERGI ONLY)
C-MAX Energi vehicles must be plugged in regularly for optimal use of
the high voltage battery’s extended range capability. When you charge
your vehicle you add electrical energy which is then used to propel the
vehicle in Plug-in Power Mode. Your estimated electric range in this
mode is shown in an enhanced battery gauge on the instrument panel
display. Electric only operation is maximized in plug-in power mode.
System conditions may require engine operation, however, plug-in power
will be used whenever possible.
When your plug-in power has been depleted, the powertrain system will
automatically switch to hybrid mode. Your battery gauge will show an
electric range of zero before transitioning to a simple battery graphic
upon entering hybrid mode. Hybrid mode uses both the gasoline engine
and electric motor to power your vehicle and maximize fuel economy as
with C-MAX Hybrid.
EV MODES (C-MAX ENERGI ONLY)
Your vehicle contains selectable EV modes through the EV
button on the center console.
These modes are available when the vehicle can run under high voltage
battery power. With the vehicle in driving mode you can change EV
modes with each press of the EV button. The current mode will be
displayed in the left hand instrument cluster screen.
Auto EV
This mode provides an automatic use of high-voltage battery
power during the drive, staying in electric mode when possible
and running the engine when needed. This mode will be the
only one available if the plug in power has been depleted.
AUTO
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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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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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Note:EV Now mode can resume if less than 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of fuel
is left in the tank.
Note:In most cases, when the fuel level is below 1/4 tank, refueling the
vehicle will end fuel freshness mode and EV Now will now become
available. Refueling after consuming a full tank in fuel freshness mode
will end the mode.
Note:It is recommended to use a fuel stabilizer if you consume less
than a full tank of fuel during an 18 month period.
REFUELING
WARNING:Fuel vapor burns violently and a fuel fire can cause
severe injuries. To help avoid injuries to you and others:
•Read and follow all the instructions on the pump island.
•Turn off your engine when you are refueling.
•Do not smoke if you are near fuel or refueling your vehicle.
•Keep sparks, flames and smoking materials away from fuel.
•Stay outside your vehicle and do not leave the fuel pump unattended
when refueling your vehicle - this is against the law in some places.
•
Keep children away from the fuel pump; never let children pump fuel.
•Do not use personal electronic devices while refueling.
Use the following guidelines to avoid electrostatic charge build-up when
filling an ungrounded fuel container:
•Place approved fuel container on the ground.
•DO NOT fill a fuel container while it is in the vehicle (including the
cargo area).
•Keep the fuel pump nozzle in contact with the fuel container while
filling.
•DO NOT use a device that would hold the fuel pump handle in the fill
position.
Using the Easy Fuel™ Capless Fuel System (Except C-MAX Energi)
WARNING:The fuel system may be under pressure. Insert the
fuel nozzle slowly. If you hear a hissing sound near the fuel filler
door, do not refuel until the sound stops. Otherwise, fuel may spray
out, which could cause serious personal injury.
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The front wheels must be on a tow dolly when towing your vehicle
from the rear using wheel lift equipment. This prevents damage to the
transmission.
TOWING THE VEHICLE ON FOUR WHEELS
Emergency Towing
If your vehicle becomes inoperable (without access to wheel dollies,
car-hauling trailer, or flatbed transport vehicle), it can be flat-towed
(all wheels on the ground, regardless of the powertrain and transmission
configuration) under the following conditions:
•Your vehicle is facing forward for towing in a forward direction.
•
Place the transmission in positionN.SeeAutomatic transmissionin
theTransmissionchapter if you cannot move the transmission intoN.
•Maximum speed is 35 mph (56 km/h).
•Maximum distance is 50 miles (80 kilometers).
Recreational Towing
Note:Put your climate control system in recirculated air mode to
prevent exhaust fumes from entering your vehicle. See theClimate
Controlchapter.
Follow these guidelines if you have a need for recreational towing,
such as towing your vehicle behind a motorhome. We designed these
guidelines to prevent damage to your transmission.
You can tow your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground or with
the front wheels off the ground by using a tow dolly. If you are using a
tow dolly, follow the instructions specified by the equipment provider.
If you are towing with all four wheels on the ground, see the following
instructions.
If you tow your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground:
•Tow only in the forward direction.
•Release the parking brake.
•Place the transmission in positionN.
•Place the ignition in the accessory mode. See theStarting and
Stopping the Enginechapter.
•Do not exceed 70 mph (113 km/h).
•Place the transmission in positionP,start the engine and allow it to
run for one minute at the beginning of each day (you may need to
press the accelerator pedal in order to start the engine). After
allowing the engine to run, place the transmission back into position
Nand the ignition in the accessory position.
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