2015 FORD F250 SUPER DUTY warning

Adding Engine Coolant
WARNINGS
Do not add engine coolant when theengine is hot. Steam and scaldingliquids released from a hot coolingsystem can burn you badly. Also, you canbe burned if you spill coolant on hot engineparts.
Do not put engine coolant in thewindshield washer fluid container. Ifsprayed on the windshield, enginecoolant could make it difficult to seethrough the windshield.
To reduce the risk of personal injury,make sure the engine is cool beforeunscrewing the coolant pressurerelief cap. The cooling system is underpressure; steam and hot liquid can comeout forcefully when the cap is loosenedslightly.
Do not add coolant further than theMAX mark.
Note:Do not use stop leak pellets, coolingsystem sealants, or additives as they cancause damage to the engine cooling orheating systems. This damage would notbe covered under your vehicle’s warranty.
Note:During normal vehicle operation, theengine coolant may change color fromorange to pink or light red. As long as theengine coolant is clear and uncontaminated,this color change does not indicate theengine coolant has degraded nor does itrequire the engine coolant to be drained, thesystem to be flushed, or the engine coolantto be replaced.
•Do not mix different colors or types ofcoolant in your vehicle. Make sure thecorrect coolant is used. Mixing ofengine coolants may harm yourengine’s cooling system. The use of animproper coolant may harm engine andcooling system components and mayvoid the warranty. Use predilutedengine coolant meeting the Fordspecification. See Capacities andSpecifications (page 301).
•In case of emergency, a large amountof water without engine coolant maybe added in order to reach a vehicleservice location. In this instance, thecooling system must be drained,chemically cleaned with Motorcraft®Premium Cooling System Flush, andrefilled with engine coolant as soon aspossible. Water alone (without enginecoolant) can cause engine damagefrom corrosion, overheating or freezing.
•Do not use alcohol, methanol, brine orany engine coolants mixed with alcoholor methanol antifreeze (coolant).Alcohol and other liquids can causeengine damage from overheating orfreezing.
•Do not add extra inhibitors or additivesto the coolant. These can be harmfuland compromise the corrosionprotection of the engine coolant.
Unscrew the cap slowly. Any pressure willescape as you unscrew the cap.
Add prediluted engine coolant meeting theFord specification. See Capacities andSpecifications (page 301).
Whenever coolant has been added, thecoolant level in the coolant reservoirshould be checked the next few times youdrive the vehicle. If necessary, add enoughprediluted engine coolant to bring thecoolant level to the proper level.
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Recycled Engine Coolant
Ford Motor Company does not recommendthe use of recycled engine coolant since aFord-approved recycling process is not yetavailable.
Used engine coolant should be disposedof in an appropriate manner. Follow yourcommunity’s regulations and standardsfor recycling and disposing of automotivefluids.
Severe Climates
If you drive in extremely cold climates:
•It may be necessary to have a Fordauthorized dealer increase the coolantconcentration above 50%.
•A coolant concentration of 60% willprovide improved freeze pointprotection. Engine coolantconcentrations above 60% willdecrease the overheat protectioncharacteristics of the engine coolantand may cause engine damage.
If you drive in extremely hot climates:
•It may be necessary to have a Fordauthorized dealer decrease the coolantconcentration to 40%.
•A coolant concentration of 40% willprovide improved overheat protection.Engine coolant concentrations below40% will decrease the corrosion/freezeprotection characteristics of the enginecoolant and may cause enginedamage.
Vehicles driven year-round in non-extremeclimates should use prediluted enginecoolant for optimum cooling system andengine protection.
What You Should Know About Fail-Safe Cooling
If the engine coolant supply is depleted,this feature allows the vehicle to be driventemporarily before incremental componentdamage is incurred. The “fail-safe”distance depends on ambienttemperatures, vehicle load and terrain.
How Fail-Safe Cooling Works
If the engine begins to overheat, the enginecoolant temperature gauge will move tothe red (hot) area and:
The coolant temperaturewarning light will illuminate.
The service engine soonindicator will illuminate.
If the engine reaches a presetover-temperature condition, the enginewill automatically switch to alternatingcylinder operation. Each disabled cylinderacts as an air pump and cools the engine.
When this occurs the vehicle will stilloperate. However:
•The engine power will be limited.
•The air conditioning system will bedisabled.
Continued operation will increase theengine temperature and the engine willcompletely shut down, causing steeringand braking effort to increase.
Once the engine temperature cools, theengine can be re-started. Take your vehicleto an authorized dealer as soon as possibleto minimize engine damage.
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When Fail-Safe Mode Is Activated
WARNINGS
Fail-safe mode is for use duringemergencies only. Operate thevehicle in fail-safe mode only as longas necessary to bring the vehicle to rest ina safe location and seek immediate repairs.When in fail-safe mode, the vehicle willhave limited power, will not be able tomaintain high-speed operation, and maycompletely shut down without warning,potentially losing engine power, powersteering assist, and power brake assist,which may increase the possibility of acrash resulting in serious injury.
Never remove the coolant reservoircap while the engine is running or hot.
You have limited engine power when in thefail-safe mode, so drive the vehicle withcaution. The vehicle will not be able tomaintain high-speed operation and theengine will run rough. Remember that theengine is capable of completely shuttingdown automatically to prevent enginedamage, therefore:
1. Pull off the road as soon as safelypossible and turn off the engine.
2. Arrange for the vehicle to be taken toan authorized dealer.
3. If this is not possible, wait a shortperiod for the engine to cool.
4. Check the coolant level and replenishif low.
5. Re-start the engine and take yourvehicle to an authorized dealer.
Note:Driving the vehicle without repairingthe engine problem increases the chance ofengine damage. Take your vehicle to anauthorized dealer as soon as possible.
Engine Fluid TemperatureManagement (If Equipped)
WARNING
To reduce the risk of collision andinjury, be prepared that the vehiclespeed may reduce and the vehiclemay not be able to accelerate with fullpower until the fluid temperatures reduce.
Your vehicle has been designed to pull atrailer, but because of the added load, thevehicle’s engine may temporarily reachhigher temperatures during severeoperating conditions such as ascending along or steep grade while pulling a trailerin hot ambient temperatures.
At this time, you may notice your enginecoolant temperature gauge needle movetoward the H and the POWER REDUCEDTO LOWER TEMP message may appearin the information display.
You may notice a reduction in the vehicle’sspeed caused by reduced engine power.Your vehicle has been designed to enterthis mode if certain high temperature/highload conditions take place in order tomanage the engine’s fluid temperatures.The amount of speed reduction willdepend on the vehicle loading, towing,grade, ambient temperature, and otherfactors. If this occurs, there is no need topull off the road. The vehicle can continueto be driven while this message is active
The air conditioning may also cycle on andoff during severe operating conditions toprotect overheating of the engine. Whenthe engine coolant temperature decreasesto a more normal operating temperature,the air conditioning will turn on once again.If you notice any of the following:
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•the engine coolant temperature gaugemoves fully into the red (hot) area
•the coolant temperature warning lightilluminates
•the service engine soon indicatorilluminates.
WARNING
Never remove the coolant reservoircap while the engine is running or hot.
1. Pull off the road as soon as safelypossible and place the vehicle in P(Park).
2. Leave the engine running until thecoolant temperature gauge needlemoves away from the H range. Afterseveral minutes, if this does nothappen, follow the remaining steps.
3. Turn the engine off and wait for it tocool before checking the coolant level.
4. If the coolant level is normal, you mayrestart your engine and continue on.
5. If the coolant is low, add coolant,restart the engine and take your vehicleto an authorized dealer. See Addingengine coolant in this chapter for moreinformation. Refer to fail-safe coolingfor additional information.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID CHECK
Have an authorized dealer check andchange the transmission fluid and filter atthe correct service interval. SeeScheduled Maintenance (page 440).
Do not use supplemental transmissionfluid additives, treatments or cleaningagents. The use of these materials mayaffect transmission operation and resultin damage to internal transmissioncomponents.
Checking Automatic TransmissionFluid (If Equipped)
For scheduled intervals of the fluid checksand changes, See ScheduledMaintenance (page 440). Yourtransmission does not consume fluid.However, the fluid level should be checkedif the transmission is not working properly,i.e., if the transmission slips or shifts slowlyor if you notice some sign of fluid leakage.
Automatic transmission fluid expandswhen warmed. To obtain an accurate fluidcheck, drive the vehicle until it is at normaloperating temperature (approximately19 mi (30 km)). Verify that thetransmission fluid temperature gauge,located on the instrument cluster, is withinnormal range.
1. Drive the vehicle 19 mi (30 km)until itreaches normal operating temperature.
2.Park the vehicle on a level surface andengage the parking brake.
3.With the engine running, parking brakeengaged and your foot on the brakepedal, move the gearshift lever throughall of the gear ranges. Allow sufficienttime for each gear to engage.
4.Latch the gearshift lever in P and leavethe engine running.
5. Remove the dipstick, wiping it cleanwith a clean, dry lint free rag. Ifnecessary, refer to the Under HoodOverview in this chapter for thelocation of the dipstick.
6.Install the dipstick making sure it is fullyseated in the filler tube.
7. Remove the dipstick and inspect thefluid level. The fluid should be in thedesignated area for normal operatingtemperature or ambient temperature.
Low Fluid Level
Type A
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6. Recheck the fluid level in the reservoir.Do not add fluid if the level is betweenthe MIN and MAX range.
7. If the fluid is low, add fluid in smallamounts, continuously checking thelevel until it is between the MIN andMAX range. For proper fluid type, SeeCapacities and Specifications (page301). Be sure to put the cap back on thereservoir.
WASHER FLUID CHECK
WARNING
If you operate your vehicle intemperatures below 40°F (5°C), usewasher fluid with antifreezeprotection. Failure to use washer fluid withantifreeze protection in cold weather couldresult in impaired windshield vision andincrease the risk of injury or accident.
Add fluid to fill the reservoir if the level islow. Only use a washer fluid that meetsFord specifications. See Capacities andSpecifications (page 301).
State or local regulations on volatileorganic compounds may restrict the useof methanol, a common windshield washerantifreeze additive. Washer fluidscontaining non-methanol antifreezeagents should be used only if they providecold weather protection without damagingthe vehicle’s paint finish, wiper blades orwasher system.
FUEL FILTER
Your vehicle is equipped with a lifetimefuel filter that is integrated with the fueltank. Regular maintenance or replacementis not needed.
CHANGING THE 12V BATTERY
WARNINGS
This vehicle may be equipped withmore than one battery, removal ofcable from only one battery does notdisconnect the vehicle electrical system.Be sure to disconnect cables from allbatteries when disconnecting power.Failure to do so may cause seriouspersonal injury or property damage.
Batteries normally produce explosivegases which can cause personalinjury. Therefore, do not allowflames, sparks or lighted substances tocome near the battery. When working nearthe battery, always shield your face andprotect your eyes. Always provide properventilation.
When lifting a plastic-cased battery,excessive pressure on the end wallscould cause acid to flow through thevent caps, resulting in personal injury anddamage to the vehicle or battery. Lift thebattery with a battery carrier or with yourhands on opposite corners.
Keep batteries out of reach ofchildren. Batteries contain sulfuricacid. Avoid contact with skin, eyes orclothing. Shield your eyes when workingnear the battery to protect against possiblesplashing of acid solution. In case of acidcontact with skin or eyes, flushimmediately with water for a minimum of15 minutes and get prompt medicalattention. If acid is swallowed, call aphysician immediately.
Note:If your battery has a cover/shield,make sure it is reinstalled after the batteryhas been cleaned or replaced.
Note:Battery posts, terminals and relatedaccessories contain lead and leadcompounds. Wash hands after handling.
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4. On the wall or screen you will observea flat zone of high intensity lightlocated at the top of the right handportion of the beam pattern. If the topedge of the high intensity light zone isnot at the horizontal reference line, theheadlamp will need to be adjusted.
5. Locate the vertical adjuster on eachheadlamp. Using a Phillips #2screwdriver, turn the adjuster eitherclockwise or counterclockwise in orderto adjust the vertical aim of theheadlamp.
6. Repeat steps 3 thru 5 to adjust theother headlamp.
7.Close the hood and turn off the lamps.
Horizontal Aim Adjustment
Horizontal aim is not required for thisvehicle and is not adjustable.
REMOVING A HEADLAMP
WARNING
Handle a halogen headlamp bulbcarefully and keep out of children’sreach. Grasp the bulb only by itsplastic base and do not touch the glass.The oil from your hand could cause thebulb to break the next time the headlampsare operated.
Note:If the bulb is accidentally touched, itshould be cleaned with rubbing alcoholbefore being used.
Note:This procedure is for replacing theheadlamps, park lamps or turn lamps.
1. Make sure the headlamp control is inthe Off position and open the hood.
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CHANGING THE ENGINE AIR
FILTER
WARNINGS
To reduce the risk of vehicle damageand personal burn injuries, do notstart your engine with the air cleanerremoved and do not remove it while theengine is running.
To reduce the risk of vehicle damageand personal burn injuries, do notstart your engine with the air cleanerremoved and do not remove it while theengine is running.
Note:Failure to use the correct air filterelement may result in severe enginedamage. The customer warranty may bevoid for any damage to the engine if thecorrect air filter element is not used.
When changing the air filter element, useonly the air filter element listed. SeeCapacities and Specifications (page301).
Change the air filter element at the properinterval. See Scheduled Maintenance(page 440).
1. Locate the mass air flow sensorelectrical connector on the air outlettube. Disconnect the mass air flowsensor electrical connector.
2. Reposition the locking clip on theconnector (connector shown frombelow for clarity), squeeze theconnector and pull it off of the airoutlet tube.
3.Clean the area from around the air tubeto the air cover connection to preventdebris from entering the system. Next,loosen the bolt on the air tube clampso the clamp is no longer snug to theair tube. It is not necessary tocompletely remove the clamp.
4.Pull the air tube off from the air cleanerhousing.
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•Never wash or rinse any ignition coil,spark plug wire or spark plug well, orthe area in and around these locations.
•Cover the battery, power distributionbox, and air filter assembly to preventwater damage when cleaning theengine.
CLEANING THE WINDOWS AND
WIPER BLADES
Car wash chemicals and environmentalfallout can result in windshield and wiperblade contamination. Dirty windshield andwipers will result in poor windshield wiperoperation. Keep the windshield and wiperblades clean to maintain windshield wiperperformance.
To clean the windshield and wiper blades:
•Clean the windshield with anon-abrasive glass cleaner.
•For windshields contaminated withtree sap, chemicals, wax or bugs, cleanthe entire windshield using steel wool(no greater than 0000 grade) in acircular motion and rinse with water.
•Clean the wiper blades with isopropylrubbing alcohol or windshield washerfluid.
Note: Do not use razor blades or othersharp objects to clean or remove decalsfrom the inside of the heated rear window.The vehicle warranty does not coverdamage caused to the heated rear windowgrid lines.
CLEANING THE INTERIOR
WARNINGS
Do not use cleaning solvents, bleachor dye on the vehicle’s safety belts,as these actions may weaken thebelt webbing.
WARNINGS
On vehicles equipped withseat-mounted airbags, do not usechemical solvents or strongdetergents. Such products couldcontaminate the side airbag system andaffect performance of the side airbag in acollision.
For fabric, carpets, cloth seats, safety beltsand seats equipped with side airbags:
•Remove dust and loose dirt with avacuum cleaner.
•Remove light stains and soil withMotorcraft Professional StrengthCarpet & Upholstery Cleaner.
•If grease or tar is present on thematerial, spot-clean the area first withMotorcraft Spot and Stain Remover. InCanada, use Motorcraft Multi-PurposeCleaner.
•If a ring forms on the fabric after spotcleaning, clean the entire areaimmediately (but do not oversaturate)or the ring will set.
•Do not use household cleaningproducts or glass cleaners, which canstain and discolor the fabric and affectthe flame retardant abilities of the seatmaterials.
CLEANING THE INSTRUMENT
PANEL AND INSTRUMENT
CLUSTER LENS
WARNING
Do not use chemical solvents orstrong detergents when cleaning thesteering wheel or instrument panelto avoid contamination of the airbagsystem.
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