2015 FORD F250 SUPER DUTY Owners Manual

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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Type B
Do not drive the vehicle if there is noindication of fluid on the dipstick and theambient temperature is above 50°F(10°C).
Correct Fluid Level
Type A
Type B
For vehicles equipped with 5-speedtransmissions, check the fluid at thenormal operating temperature of 151°F(66°C) to 170°F (77°C) on a level surface.For vehicles equipped with 6-speedtransmissions, check the fluid at thenormal operating temperature of 196°F(91°C) to 215°F (102°C) on a level surface.The normal operating temperature can bereached after approximately 19 mi(30 km).
High Fluid Level
Type A
Type B
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Fluid levels above the safe range mayresult in transmission failure. An overfillcondition of transmission fluid may causeshift and engagement concerns, andpossible damage.
High fluid levels can be caused by anoverheating condition.
Adjusting Automatic TransmissionFluid Levels
Note:Use of a non-approved automatictransmission fluid may cause internaltransmission component damage.
Before adding any fluid, make sure thecorrect type is used. The type of fluid usedis normally indicated on:
•the dipstick handle.
•See Capacities and Specifications(page 301).
If necessary, add fluid in 8 fl oz (250 ml)increments through the filler tube until thelevel is correct.
Type A
Type B
If an overfill occurs, excess fluid should beremoved by a qualified technician.
Note:An overfill condition of transmissionfluid may cause shift and engagementconcerns, and possible damage.
Do not use supplemental transmissionfluid additives, treatments or cleaningagents. The use of these materials mayaffect transmission operation and resultin damage to internal transmissioncomponents.
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TRANSFER CASE FLUID
CHECK
1. Clean the filler plug.
2. Remove the filler plug and inspect thefluid level.
3.Add only enough fluid through the filleropening so that the fluid level is at thebottom of the opening.
Use only fluid that meets Fordspecifications. Refer to the SeeCapacities and Specifications (page301). section.
BRAKE FLUID CHECK
Fluid levels between the MIN and MAXlines are within the normal operating range;there is no need to add fluid. If the fluidlevels are outside of the normal operatingrange, the performance of the systemcould be compromised; seek service fromyour authorized dealer immediately.
POWER STEERING FLUID
CHECK
Check the power steering fluid. SeeScheduled Maintenance (page 440). Ifadding fluid is necessary, use onlyMERCON LV ATF
Note:This procedure is for vehicles withgasoline engines. Vehicles with dieselengines are similar. See Under HoodOverview in your diesel supplement.
Check the fluid level when it is at ambienttemperature.
1. Check the fluid level in the reservoir. Itshould be between the MIN and MAXrange. Do not add fluid if the level iswithin this range.
2.If the fluid level is low, add fluid to bringthe fluid level up to between the MINand MAX range.
3. Switch the engine on.
4.While the engine idles, turn the steeringwheel left and right several times.
5. Switch the engine off.
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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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Note:Electrical or electronic accessoriesor components added to the vehicle by thedealer or the owner may adversely affectbattery performance and durability.
Your vehicle is equipped with a Motorcraftmaintenance-free battery which normallydoes not require additional water duringits life of service.
For longer, trouble-free operation, keep thetop of the battery clean and dry. Also,make certain the battery cables are alwaystightly fastened to the battery terminals.
If you see any corrosion on the battery orterminals, remove the cables from theterminals and clean with a wire brush. Youcan neutralize the acid with a solution ofbaking soda and water.
It is recommended that the negativebattery cable terminal be disconnectedfrom the battery if you plan to store yourvehicle for an extended period of time.
Because your vehicle’s engine iselectronically controlled by a computer,some control conditions are maintainedby power from the battery. When thebattery is disconnected or a new batteryis installed, the engine must relearn its idleand fuel trim strategy for optimumdriveability and performance. Flexible fuelvehicles (FFV) must also relearn theethanol content of the fuel for optimumdriveability and performance. To begin thisprocess
1. With the vehicle at a complete stop,set the parking brake.
2. Put the gearshift in P, turn off allaccessories.
3. Start the engine. Run the engine untilit reaches normal operatingtemperature.
4.Allow the engine to idle for at least oneminute.
5. Turn the A/C on and allow the engineto idle for at least one minute.
6. Release the parking brake. With yourfoot on the brake pedal and with theA/C on, put the vehicle in D and allowthe engine to idle for at least oneminute.
•If you do not allow the engine torelearn its idle trim, the idle qualityof your vehicle may be adverselyaffected until the idle trim iseventually relearned.
7. Drive the vehicle to complete therelearning process
•The vehicle may need to be driven10 mi (16 km) or more to relearn theidle and fuel trim strategy alongwith the ethanol content for flexiblefuel vehicles.
•For flexible fuel vehicles, if you areoperating on E85, you mayexperience poor starts or aninability to start the engine anddriveability problems until the fueltrim and ethanol content have beenrelearned.
If the battery has been disconnected or anew battery has been installed, the clockand radio settings must be reset once thebattery is reconnected.
Always dispose of automotivebatteries in a responsible manner.Follow your local authorized standardsfor disposal. Call your local authorizedrecycling center to find out more aboutrecycling automotive batteries.
Battery Management System (IfEquipped)
The battery management system (BMS)monitors battery conditions and takesactions to extend battery life. If excessivebattery drain is detected, the system maytemporarily disable certain electricalfeatures to protect the battery. Thoseelectrical accessories affected include therear defrost, heated/cooled seats, climate
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