2013 FORD ESCAPE brakes

WARNING
Exceeding the Safety Compliance
Certification Label vehicle weight
rating limits could result in
substandard vehicle handling or
performance, engine, transmission and/or
structural damage, serious damage to the
vehicle, loss of control and personal injury.
GCW (Gross Combined Weight) - is the
weight of the loaded vehicle (GVW) plus
the weight of the fully loaded trailer
GCWR (Gross Combined Weight
Rating) -is the maximum allowable
weight of the vehicle and the loaded trailer
-including all cargo and passengers - that
the vehicle can handle without risking
damage. (Important: The towing vehicle ’s
braking system is rated for operation at
GVWR, not at GCWR.) Separate functional
brakes should be used for safe control of
towed vehicles and for trailers where the
GCW of the towing vehicle plus the trailer
exceed the GVWR of the towing vehicle.
The GCW must never exceed the GCWR.
Maximum Loaded Trailer Weight - is the
highest possible weight of a fully loaded
trailer the vehicle can tow. It assumes a
vehicle with only mandatory options, no
cargo (internal or external), a tongue load
of 10– 15% (conventional trailer) or king
pin weight of 15– 25% (fifth wheel trailer),
and driver only (150 lb. [68 kg]). Consult
your authorized dealer (or the RV and
Trailer Towing Guide provided by your
authorized dealer) for more detailed
information. Tongue Load or Fifth Wheel King Pin
Weight - refers to the amount of the
weight that a trailer pushes down on a
trailer hitch.
Examples: For a 5000 lb. (2268 kg)
conventional trailer, multiply 5000 by 0.10
and 0.15 to obtain a proper tongue load
range of 500 to 750 lb. (227 to 340 kg).
For an 11500 lb. (5216 kg) fifth wheel
trailer, multiply by 0.15 and 0.25 to obtain
a proper king pin load range of 1725 to 2875
lb. (782 to 1304 kg).
WARNINGS
Do not exceed the GVWR or the
GAWR specified on the Safety
Compliance Certification Label.
Do not use replacement tires with
lower load carrying capacities than
the original tires because they may
lower the vehicle ’s GVWR and GAWR
limitations. Replacement tires with a higher
limit than the original tires do not increase
the GVWR and GAWR limitations.
Exceeding any vehicle weight rating
limitation could result in serious
damage to the vehicle and/or
personal injury.
184
Load Carrying
E142526

TOWING A TRAILER
WARNINGS
Do not exceed the GVWR or the
GAWR specified on the certification
label.
Towing trailers beyond the maximum
recommended gross trailer weight
exceeds the limit of the vehicle and
could result in engine damage,
transmission damage, structural damage,
loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover and
personal injury.
Your vehicle's load capacity is designated
by weight, not by volume, so you cannot
necessarily use all available space when
loading a vehicle.
Towing a trailer places an additional load
on your vehicle's engine, transmission, axle,
brakes, tires and suspension. Inspect these
components periodically during, and after,
any towing operation.
TRAILER SWAY CONTROL (IF
EQUIPPED)
Note: This feature does not prevent trailer
sway, but reduces it once it begins. Note:
This feature cannot stop all trailers
from swaying.
Note: In some cases, if vehicle speed is too
high, the system may activate multiple
times, gradually reducing vehicle speed.
This feature applies the vehicle brakes at
individual wheels and, if necessary, reduces
engine power. If the trailer begins to sway,
the stability control light flashes. The first
thing to do is slow the vehicle down, then
pull safely to the side of the road and
check for proper tongue load and trailer
load distribution. See Load Carrying
(page 177).
RECOMMENDED TOWING
WEIGHTS
Note: For high altitude operation, reduce
the gross combined weight by 2% per 1000
feet (300 meters) elevation.
Note: Certain states require electric trailer
brakes for trailers over a specified weight.
Be sure to check state regulations for this
specified weight. The maximum trailer
weights listed may be limited to this
specified weight, as the vehicle's electrical
system does not include the wiring
connector needed to activate electric trailer
brakes.
Maximum Trailer
Frontal Area - ft 2
(m 2
)
Maximum Trailer
Weight - lb (kg)
Maximum GCWR - lb
(kg)
Powertrain
20 (1.86)
2000 (907)
5866 (2661)
2WD 1.6L
20 (1.86)
2000 (907)
6035 (2737)
4WD 1.6L
20 (1.86)
2000 (907)
5977 (2711)
2WD 2.0L 1
30 (2.78)
3500 (1588)
7477 (3391)
2WD 2.0L 2
20 (1.86)
2000 (907)
6126 (2779)
4WD 2.0L 1
188
Towing

ESSENTIAL TOWING CHECKS
Follow these guidelines to ensure safe
towing:
•Do not tow a trailer until your vehicle
has been driven at least 1000 miles
(1600 kilometers).
• Consult your local motor vehicle laws
for towing a trailer.
• Refer to the instructions included with
towing accessories for the proper
installation and adjustment
specifications.
• Service your vehicle more frequently if
you tow a trailer. Refer to your
scheduled maintenance information.
Load specification terms are found on the
tire label and Safety Compliance
Certification Label. Instructions on
calculating your vehicle's load can be
found earlier in this manual. See Load
Limit (page 179). Remember to account
for the trailer tongue weight as part of the
vehicle load when calculating the total
vehicle weight.
Hitches
Do not use a hitch that either clamps onto
the bumper or attaches to the axle.
Distribute the trailer load so 10-15% of the
total trailer weight is on the tongue.
Safety Chains
Note: Never attach safety chains to the
bumper.
Always connect the safety chains to the
vehicle's hook retainers. To connect the
safety chains, cross them under the trailer
tongue and allow slack for turning corners.
If you use a rental trailer, follow the rental
agency's instructions. Trailer Brakes
WARNING
Do not connect a trailer's hydraulic
brake system directly to your
vehicle's brake system. Your vehicle
may not have enough braking power and
your chances of having a collision greatly
increase.
Electric brakes and manual, automatic or
surge-type trailer brakes are safe if
installed properly and adjusted to the
manufacturer's specifications. The trailer
brakes must meet local and Federal
regulations.
The braking system of the tow vehicle is
rated for operation at the GVWR not
GCWR.
Trailer Lamps
Trailer lamps are required on most towed
vehicles. Ensure all running lights, brake
lights, turn signals and hazard lights are
working. Contact your authorized dealer
or trailer rental agency for proper
instructions and equipment for hooking up
the lamps.
Before Towing a Trailer
Practice turning, stopping and backing-up
to get the feel of the vehicle-trailer
combination before starting on a trip.
When turning, make wider turns so the
trailer wheels will clear curbs and other
obstacles.
190
Towing

When Towing a Trailer
•Do not drive faster than 70 mph (113
km/h) during the first 500 miles (800
kilometers) and do not make
full-throttle starts.
• Check your hitch, electrical connections
and trailer wheel lug nuts thoroughly
after you have traveled 50 miles (80
km).
• Place the gearshift lever in position P
to aid in engine and transmission
cooling and A/C efficiency during hot
weather while stopped in traffic.
• Turn off the speed control. The speed
control may turn off automatically
when you are towing on long, steep
grades.
• Shift to a lower gear when driving down
a long or steep hill. Do not apply the
brakes continuously, as they may
overheat and become less effective.
• If your transmission is equipped with
the grade assist feature, use this
feature when towing. This provides
engine braking and helps eliminate
excessive transmission shifting for
optimum fuel economy and
transmission cooling.
• Allow more distance for stopping with
a trailer attached; anticipate stops and
brake gradually.
• Avoid parking on a grade. However, if
you must park on a grade, place wheel
chocks under the trailer's wheels.
TOWING POINTS (IF EQUIPPED)
Towing Eye Location
The screw-in towing eye is located in the
spare wheel well.
The towing eye must always be carried in
the vehicle. Installing the Towing Eye
The screw-in towing eye has a left-hand
thread. Turn it counterclockwise to install
it. Make sure that the towing eye is fully
tightened.
Insert a suitable object to pry open the
cover (1). Use recessed/notched portion
of the cover. Screw in the towing eye (2).
Towing the Vehicle on Four Wheels
Switch the ignition to the on position.
Failure to do so results in steering lock and
non-function of indicator and brake lamps.
Braking and steering efforts are high if the
engine is not running. Maintain increased
stopping distances.
191
Towing
E146284

BREAKING-IN
You need to break in new tires for
approximately 300 miles (480
kilometers). During this time, your vehicle
may exhibit some unusual driving
characteristics.
Avoid driving too fast during the first 1000
miles (1600 kilometers). Vary your speed
frequently and change up through the
gears early. Do not labor the engine.
Do not tow during the first 1000 miles
(1600 kilometers).
ECONOMICAL DRIVING
Fuel economy is affected by several things
such as how you drive, the conditions you
drive under and how you maintain your
vehicle.
There are some things to keep in mind that
may improve your fuel economy:
•Accelerate and slow down in a smooth,
moderate fashion.
• Drive at steady speeds without
stopping.
• Anticipate stops; slowing down may
eliminate the need to stop.
• Combine errands and minimize
stop-and-go driving.
• Close the windows for high-speed
driving.
• Drive at reasonable speeds (traveling
at 55 mph [88 km/h] uses 15% less
fuel than traveling at 65 mph [105
km/h]).
• Keep the tires properly inflated and use
only the recommended size.
• Use the recommended engine oil.
• Perform all regularly scheduled
maintenance. There are also some things you may not
want to do because they may reduce your
fuel economy:
•
Sudden accelerations or hard
accelerations.
• Rev the engine before turning it off.
• Idle for periods longer than one minute.
• Warm up your vehicle on cold
mornings.
• Use the air conditioner or front
defroster.
• Use the speed control in hilly terrain.
• Rest your foot on the brake pedal while
driving.
• Drive a heavily loaded vehicle or tow a
trailer.
• Carry unnecessary weight
(approximately 1 mpg [0.4 km/L] is
lost for every 400 lb [180 kg] of weight
carried).
• Add particular accessories to your
vehicle (e.g. bug deflectors,
rollbars/light bars, running boards, ski
racks).
• Drive with the wheels out of alignment.
DRIVING THROUGH WATER
Note: Driving through deep water above
the recommended levels can cause vehicle
damage.
Note: Once through the water, always dry
the brakes by moving your vehicle slowly
while applying light pressure on the brake
pedal. Wet brakes do not stop the vehicle
as quickly as dry brakes.
194
Driving Hints

Body
•Wash vehicle thoroughly to remove
dirt, grease, oil, tar or mud from exterior
surfaces, rear-wheel housing and
underside of front fenders.
• Periodically wash vehicles stored in
exposed locations.
• Touch-up raw or primed metal to
prevent rust
• Cover chrome and stainless steel parts
with a thick coat of auto wax to prevent
discoloration. Re-wax as necessary
when the vehicle is washed.
• Lubricate all hood, door and trunk lid
hinges, and latches with a light grade
oil.
• Cover interior trim to prevent fading.
• Keep all rubber parts free from oil and
solvents.
Engine
• The engine oil and filter should be
changed prior to storage, as used
engine oil contain contaminates that
may cause engine damage.
• Start the engine every 15 days. Run at
fast idle until it reaches normal
operating temperature
• With your foot on the brake, shift
through all the gears while the engine
is running.
Fuel system
• Fill the fuel tank with high-quality fuel
until the first automatic shutoff of the
fuel pump nozzle. Note:
During extended periods of vehicle
storage (30 days or more), fuel may
deteriorate due to oxidation. Add a quality
gas stabilizer product to the vehicle fuel
system whenever actual or expected
storage periods exceed 30 days. Follow the
instructions on the additive label. The
vehicle should then be operated at idle
speed to circulate the additive throughout
the fuel system.
Cooling system
• Protect against freezing temperatures.
• When removing vehicle from storage,
check coolant fluid level. Confirm there
are no cooling system leaks, and fluid
is at the recommended level.
Battery
• Check and recharge as necessary. Keep
connections clean.
• If storing your vehicle for more than 30
days without recharging the battery, it
may be advisable to disconnect the
battery cables to ensure battery charge
is maintained for quick starting.
Note: If battery cables are disconnected, it
will be necessary to reset memory features.
Brakes
• Make sure brakes and parking brake
are fully released.
Tires
• Maintain recommended air pressure.
Miscellaneous
• Make sure all linkages, cables, levers
and pins under vehicle are covered with
grease to prevent rust.
• Move vehicles at least 25 feet (8
meters) every 15 days to lubricate
working parts and prevent corrosion.
241
Vehicle Care

4
4WDSee: Four-Wheel Drive....................................... 151
A
A/C See: Climate Control.......................................... 113
About This Manual...........................................7 Protecting the Environment................................ 7
ABS See: Brakes........................................................... 156
ABS driving hints See: Hints on Driving With Anti-Lock
Brakes................................................................ 156
Accessories.....................................................274 Exterior style......................................................... 274
Interior style.......................................................... 274
Lifestyle.................................................................. 274
Peace of mind...................................................... 274
Accessories See: Replacement Parts
Recommendation............................................. 11
Active Park Assist.........................................163 Automatic Steering into Parking
Space................................................................. 164
Deactivating the Park Assist Feature..........165
Troubleshooting the System......................... 166
Using Active Park Assist................................... 163
Adjusting the Headlamps.........................229 Horizontal Aim Adjustment............................ 231
Vertical Aim Adjustment................................. 229
Adjusting the Steering Wheel...................64
Airbag Disposal...............................................43
Air Conditioning See: Climate Control.......................................... 113
Alarm See: Anti-Theft Alarm........................................ 63
Ambient Lighting............................................73
Anti-Theft Alarm............................................63 Arming the Alarm................................................. 63
Disarming the Alarm........................................... 63
Appendices...................................................380
Audible Warnings and Indicators.............83 Headlamps On Warning Chime...................... 83
Key in Ignition Warning Chime........................ 83
Parking Brake On Warning Chime..................83 Audio Control..................................................64
Type 1........................................................................\
64
Type 2....................................................................... 65
Type 3....................................................................... 65
Audio System...................................................97 General Information............................................ 97
Audio unit - Vehicles With: AM/FM/CD/Satellite
Radio/SYNC................................................102
Audio unit - Vehicles With: AM/FM/CD/SYNC....................................100
Audio unit - Vehicles With: AM/FM/CD....................................................98
Audio unit - Vehicles With: Premium AM/FM/CD..................................................105
Audio unit - Vehicles With: Sony AM/FM/CD..................................................106
Menu Structure.................................................... 107
Autolamps........................................................70
Automatic Climate Control........................114 Mono Mode............................................................ 115
Switching Mono Mode Back On..................... 115
Switching Mono Mode Off............................... 115
Temperature Control.......................................... 115
Automatic Transmission............................147 Brake-Shift Interlock......................................... 148
If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck In Mud or Snow.................................................................. 149
SelectShift Automatic® Transmission................................................... 148
Understanding the Positions of Your Automatic Transmission............................. 147
Automatic Transmission Fluid Check.............................................................225
Autowipers........................................................67
Auxiliary Input Jack......................................109
Auxiliary Power Points................................132 110 Volt AC Power Point.................................... 132
Locations................................................................ 132
B
Blind Spot Monitor.........................................171 Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®)
with Cross Traffic Alert.................................. 171
Booster Seats....................................................17 Types of Booster Seats....................................... 18
Brake Fluid Check........................................225
413
Index

Brakes...............................................................156General Information.......................................... 156
Breaking-In.....................................................194
Bulb Specification Chart...........................235
C
Cabin Air Filter................................................119
California Proposition 65.............................10
Capacities and Specifications................267 Technical Specifications................................... 271
Car Wash See: Cleaning the Exterior.............................. 236
Center Console..............................................134
Changing a Bulb............................................231 Lamp Assembly Condensation..................... 231
Replacing Fog, Park and Turn Signal Bulbs.................................................................. 233
Replacing Headlamp Bulbs........................... 232
Replacing HID Headlamp Bulbs................... 232
Replacing High-Mount Brake Lamp Bulb.................................................................... 234
Replacing License Plate Lamp Bulb...........234
Replacing Reverse Lamp Assembly...........234
Replacing Side Marker Bulbs......................... 233
Replacing Tail, Brake and Turn Signal Bulbs.................................................................. 234
Changing a Fuse...........................................207 Fuses....................................................................... 207
Changing a Road Wheel...........................260 Dissimilar Spare Wheel and Tire Assembly
Information..................................................... 260
Tire Change Procedure.................................... 262
Changing the Engine Air Filter.................228 ........................................................................\
.......... 229
1.6L and 2.0L EcoBoost® Engines...............228
2.5L Engine........................................................... 229
Changing the Vehicle Battery.................226
Changing the Wiper Blades......................227
Checking MyKey System Status..............50
Checking the Wiper Blades......................227
Child Restraint and Safety Belt Maintenance.................................................33
Child Safety.......................................................14 General Information............................................. 14
Child Safety Locks..........................................24
Child Seat Positioning...................................16
Child Seats.........................................................16 Cleaning Leather Seats.............................239
Cleaning Products.......................................236
Cleaning the Alloy Wheels.......................240
Cleaning the Engine....................................237
Cleaning the Exterior..................................236
Cleaning Plastic Exterior Parts...................... 237
Exterior Chrome................................................. 236
Underbody............................................................ 237
Cleaning the Instrument Panel and Instrument Cluster Lens.........................239
Cleaning the Interior...................................238
Cleaning the Windows and Wiper Blades...........................................................238
Clearing All MyKeys.......................................50
Climate.............................................................367 Climate Control Voice Commands.............369
Climate Control..............................................113
Coolant Check See: Engine Coolant Check............................ 222
Crash Sensors and Airbag Indicator........42
Creating a MyKey...........................................49 Programming/Changing Optional
Settings............................................................... 50
Cruise Control.................................................66 Principle of Operation....................................... 170
Cruise Control See: Using Cruise Control................................ 170
Customer Assistance..................................201
D
Data Recording..................................................9 Event Data Recording........................................... 9
Service Data Recording........................................ 9
Daytime Running Lamps..............................71
Direction Indicators........................................72
Driver and Passenger Airbags...................36 Children and Airbags........................................... 37
Proper Driver and Front Passenger Seating Adjustment........................................................ 36
Driving Aids.......................................................171
Driving Hints...................................................194
Driving Through Water...............................194
DRL See: Daytime Running Lamps.......................... 71
414
Index