
steering, acceleration or braking which
could result in an increased risk of loss
of vehicle control, vehicle rollover and/or
personal injury. Use all available road
surface to return the vehicle to a safe
direction of travel.
• In the event of an emergency stop, avoid
skidding the tires and do not attempt any
sharp steering wheel movements.
• If the vehicle goes from one type of
surface to another (i.e., from concrete to
gravel) there will be a change in the way
the vehicle responds to a maneuver
(steering, acceleration or braking). Again,
avoid these abrupt inputs.
Sand
When driving over sand, try to keep all four
wheels on the most solid area of the trail.
Avoid reducing the tire pressures but shift
to a lower gear and drive steadily through
the terrain. Apply the accelerator slowly and
avoid spinning the wheels. Do not drive your AWD vehicle in deep sand.
This will cause the AWD system to overheat.
After the system has cooled down, normal
AWD function will return.
Under severe operating conditions, the A/C
may cycle on and off to protect overheating
of the engine.
Avoid excessive speed because vehicle
momentum can work against you and cause
the vehicle to become stuck to the point that
assistance may be required from another
vehicle. Remember, you may be able to back
out the way you came if you proceed with
caution.
Mud and Water
If you must drive through high water, drive
slowly. Traction or brake capability may be
limited.
When driving through water, determine the
depth; avoid water higher than the bottom
of the wheel rims (for cars) or the bottom of
the hubs (for trucks) (if possible) and proceed
slowly. If the ignition system gets wet, the
vehicle may stall.
Once through water, always try the brakes.
Wet brakes do not stop the vehicle as
effectively as dry brakes. Drying improves
by moving your vehicle slowly while applying
light pressure on the brake pedal.
Be cautious of sudden changes in vehicle
speed or direction when you are driving in
mud. Even AWD vehicles can lose traction
in slick mud. As when you are driving over
sand, apply the accelerator slowly and avoid
spinning your wheels. If the vehicle does
slide, steer in the direction of the slide until
you regain control of the vehicle.
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MKZ (), enUSA All-Wheel Drive (If Equipped)E142667

After driving through mud, clean off residue
stuck to rotating driveshafts and tires. Excess
mud stuck on tires and rotating driveshafts
causes an imbalance that could damage
drive components.
Note:
Driving through deep water may
damage the transmission.
If the front or rear axle is submerged in water,
the axle lubricant and AWD PTU (Power
Transfer Unit) lubricant should be checked
and changed if necessary. “Tread Lightly” is an educational program
designed to increase public awareness of
land-use regulations and responsibilities in
our nations wilderness areas. Lincoln Motor
Company joins the U.S. Forest Service and
the Bureau of Land Management in
encouraging you to help preserve our
national forest and other public and private
lands by “treading lightly.
”Driving on Hilly or Sloping Terrain
Note:
Avoid driving crosswise or turning on
steep slopes or hills. A danger lies in losing
traction, slipping sideways and possibly
rolling over. Whenever driving on a hill,
determine beforehand the route you will use.
Do not drive over the crest of a hill without
seeing what conditions are on the other side.
Do not drive in reverse over a hill without
the aid of an observer.
Although natural obstacles may make it
necessary to travel diagonally up or down a
hill or steep incline, you should always try to
drive straight up or straight down.
When climbing a steep slope or hill, start in
a lower gear rather than downshifting to a
lower gear from a higher gear once the
ascent has started. This reduces strain on
the engine and the possibility of stalling.
If you do stall out, do not try to turnaround
because you might roll over. It is better to
back down to a safe location. Apply just enough power to the wheels to
climb the hill. Too much power will cause the
tires to slip, spin or lose traction, resulting in
loss of vehicle control.
Descend a hill in the same gear you would
use to climb up the hill to avoid excessive
brake application and brake overheating. Do
not descend in neutral; instead, disengage
overdrive or manually shift to a lower gear.
When descending a steep hill, avoid sudden
hard braking as you could lose control. The
front wheels have to be turning in order to
steer the vehicle.
Your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, therefore
apply the brakes steadily. Do not “pump
” the
brakes.
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MKZ (), enUSA All-Wheel Drive (If Equipped)E143950 E143949

Each time you start the vehicle, the system
selects the last chosen gap for the current
driver.
Disengaging the System
Press the brake pedal or press CNCL. The
last set speed displays in grey but does not
erase.
Overriding the System WARNING
Whenever the driver presses the
accelerator pedal and overrides the
system, the system does not automatically
apply the brakes to maintain the set distance
from any vehicle ahead. Press the accelerator pedal to override the
set speed and gap distance.
When you override the system,
the green indicator light
illuminates and the lead vehicle
graphic does not show in the information
display. The system resumes operation when you
release the accelerator pedal. The vehicle
speed decreases to the set speed, or a
slower speed if following a slower vehicle.
Changing the Set Speed
•
Accelerate or brake to the desired speed,
then press and release
SET+.
• Press and hold
SET+ or SET- until the
desired set speed shows on the
information display. The vehicle speed
gradually changes to the selected speed.
• Press and release SET+ or SET-. The set
speed changes in approximately 1 mph
(2 km/h) increments.
The system may apply the brakes to slow
the vehicle to the new set speed. The set
speed displays continuously in the
information display when the system is
active.
Resuming the Set Speed
Note: Only use resume if you are aware of
the set speed and intend to return to it. Press and release
RES. The vehicle returns
to the previously set speed. The set speed
displays continuously in the information
display while the system is active.
Low Speed Automatic Cancellation
The system does not function at speeds
below 12 mph (20 km/h). An audible alarm
sounds and the automatic braking releases
if your vehicle drops below this speed.
Hilly Condition Usage
Note: An audible alarm sounds and the
system shuts down if it is applying brakes
for an extended period of time. This allows
the brakes to cool. The system functions
normally again when the brakes cool.
Select a lower gear during prolonged
downhill driving on steep slopes, such as
mountainous areas, when the system is
active. In such situations, the system needs
additional engine braking to reduce the load
on the vehicle ’s regular brake system to
prevent the brakes from overheating.
207
MKZ (), enUSA Cruise ControlE144529

If your vehicle loses electrical power while
you are driving (or if you switch the ignition
off ), you can steer your vehicle manually, but
it takes more effort. Extreme continuous
steering may increase the effort it takes for
you to steer. This occurs to prevent internal
overheating and permanent damage to your
steering system. If this should occur, you will
neither lose the ability to steer your vehicle
manually nor will it cause permanent
damage. Typical steering and driving
maneuvers allows the system to cool and
steering assist to return to normal.
Steering Tips
If the steering wanders or pulls, check for:
•
An improperly inflated tire.
• Uneven tire wear.
• Loose or worn suspension components.
• Loose or worn steering components.
• Improper vehicle alignment.
A high crown in the road or high crosswinds
may also make the steering seem to wander
or pull. Adaptive Learning
The electronic power steering system
adaptive learning helps correct road
irregularities and improves overall handling
and steering feel. It communicates with the
brake system to help operate advanced
stability control and accident avoidance
systems. Additionally, whenever the battery
is disconnected or a new battery installed,
you must drive your vehicle a short distance
before the system relearns the strategy and
reactivates all systems.
COLLISION WARNING SYSTEM
PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION (If Equipped)
WARNINGS
This system is designed to be a
supplementary driving aid. It is not
intended to replace the driver’ s attention,
and judgment, or the need to apply the
brakes. This system does NOT activate the
brakes automatically. Failure to press the
brake pedal to activate the brakes may result
in a collision. WARNINGS
The collision warning system with
brake support cannot help prevent all
collisions. Do not rely on this system to
replace driver judgment and the need to
maintain distance and speed. Note:
The system does not detect, warn or
respond to potential collisions with vehicles
to the rear or sides of the vehicle.
Note: The collision warning system is active
at speeds above approximately 5 mph (8
km/h). This system is designed to alert the driver of
certain collision risks. A radar detects if your
vehicle is rapidly approaching another
vehicle traveling in the same direction as
yours.
223
MKZ (), enUSA Driving AidsE156130

Note:
Automotive fluids are not
interchangeable. Do not use engine coolant,
antifreeze or windshield washer fluid outside
of its specified function and vehicle location.
Adding Engine Coolant
Note: Do not use stop leak pellets, cooling
system sealants or additives as they can
cause damage to the engine cooling or
heating systems. Your warranty may not
cover these damages.
Note: During normal vehicle operation, the
engine coolant may change color from
orange to pink or light red. As long as the
engine coolant is clear and uncontaminated,
this color change does not indicate that the
engine coolant has degraded, nor does it
require that you drain the engine coolant,
flush the system or replace the engine
coolant. Do not mix different colors or types of
coolant in your vehicle. Mixing of engine
coolants may harm your engine
’s cooling
system. The use of an improper coolant may
harm engine and cooling system
components and may void the warranty. Use
prediluted engine coolant meeting the Ford
specification. See Capacities and
Specifications (page 353).
In case of emergency, you can add a large
amount of water without engine coolant in
order to reach a vehicle service location. In
this instance, qualified personnel:
1. Must drain the cooling system.
2. Chemically clean the coolant system with
Motorcraft Premium Cooling System
Flush.
3. Refill with engine coolant as soon as possible.
Water alone, without engine coolant, can
cause engine damage from corrosion,
overheating or freezing. Do not use the following as a coolant
substitute:
•
Alcohol.
• Methanol.
• Brine.
• Any engine coolant mixed with alcohol
or methanol antifreeze or coolant.
Alcohol and other liquids can cause engine
damage from overheating or freezing.
Do not add extra inhibitors or additives to
the coolant. These can be harmful and
compromise the corrosion protection of the
engine coolant.
When adding coolant:
1. Unscrew the cap slowly. Any pressure will escape as you unscrew the cap.
2. Add prediluted engine coolant meeting the Ford specification.
See Capacities
and Specifications (page 353).
3. Check the coolant level in the coolant reservoir the next few times you drive
your vehicle.
286
MKZ (), enUSA Maintenance

Checking the fluid level
Low fluid level
If the fluid level is below the MIN range of
the dipstick, add fluid to reach the hash mark
level.
Note:
If the fluid level is below the MIN level,
do not drive the vehicle. An underfill
condition may cause shift or engagement
concerns or possible damage. Correct fluid level The transmission fluid should be checked at
normal operating temperature 180°F-200°F
(82°C-93°C) on a level surface. The normal
operating temperature can be reached after
approximately 20 miles (30 kilometers) of
driving.
The transmission fluid level should be
targeted within the cross-hatch area if at
normal operating temperature 180°F-200°F
(82°C-93°C).
High fluid level If the fluid level is above the MAX range of
the dipstick, remove fluid to reach the
hashmark level.
Note:
Fluid level above the MAX level may
cause shift or engagement concerns or
possible damage. High fluid levels can be
caused by an overheating condition. If your
vehicle has been operated for an extended
period at high speeds, in city traffic during
hot weather or pulling a trailer, the vehicle
should be turned off until normal operating
temperatures are reached. Depending on
vehicle use, cooling times could take up to
30 minutes or longer.
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MKZ (), enUSA MaintenanceE158842 E158843 E158844

Do not attempt to repair punctures larger
than 0.24 in (6 mm) or damage to the tire's
sidewall. The tire may not completely seal.
Loss of air pressure may adversely affect tire
performance. For this reason:
Note: Do not drive the vehicle above 50 mph
(80 km/h)
.
Note: Do not drive further than
120 mi
(200 km). Drive only to the closest authorized
Ford dealer or tire repair shop to have your
tire inspected.
• Drive carefully and avoid abrupt steering
maneuvers.
• Periodically monitor tire inflation pressure
in the affected tire. If the tire is losing
pressure, have the vehicle towed.
• Read the information in the Tips for Use
of the Kit section to make sure safe
operation of the kit and your vehicle.
Tips for Use of the Kit
To ensure safe operation of the kit: •
Read all instructions and cautions fully.
• Before operating the kit, make sure your
vehicle is safely off the road and away
from moving traffic. Turn on the hazard
lights.
• Always set the parking brake to ensure
the vehicle does not move unexpectedly.
• Do not remove any foreign objects, such
as nails or screws, from the tire.
• When using the kit, leave the engine
running (only if the vehicle is outdoors or
in a well-ventilated area) so the
compressor does not drain the vehicle
battery.
• Do not allow the compressor to operate
continuously for more than 15 minutes.
This will help prevent the compressor
from overheating.
• Never leave the kit unattended when it
is operating.
• Sealant compound contains latex. Make
sure that you use the non-latex gloves
provided to avoid an allergic reaction.
• Keep the kit away from children. •
Only use the kit when the ambient
temperature is between -22°F (-30°C) and
158°F (70°C)
.
• Only use the sealing compound before
the use by date. The use by date is on
the lower right hand corner of the label
located on the sealant canister (bottle).
Check the use by date regularly and
replace the canister after four years.
• Do not store the kit unsecured inside the
passenger compartment of the vehicle
as it may cause injury during a sudden
stop or crash. Always store the kit in its
original location.
• After sealant use, the tire pressure
monitoring system sensor and valve stem
on the wheel must be replaced by an
authorized Ford dealer.
• When inflating a tire or other objects, use
the black air hose only. Do not use the
transparent hose which is designed for
sealant application only.
• Operating the kit could cause an
electrical disturbance in radio, CD, and
DVD player operation.
312
MKZ (), enUSA Wheels and Tires

Air pressure gauge
D
Sealant bottle and canister
E
Dual purpose hose: air and repair
F
Tire valve connector
G
Accessory power plug
H
Casing/housing
I
Bike/raft/sports ball adapters
J
General Information WARNING
Failure to follow these guidelines could
result in an increased risk of loss of
vehicle control, injury or death. Note:
Do not use the kit if a tire has become
severely damaged. Only punctures located
within the tire tread can be sealed with the
kit.
Do not attempt to repair punctures larger
than ¼ inch (6 millimeters) or damage to the
tire's sidewall. The tire may not completely
seal. Loss of air pressure may adversely affect tire
performance. For this reason:
Note:
Do not drive the vehicle above 50 mph
(80 km/h).
Note: Do not drive further than
120 mi
(200 km). Drive only to the closest authorized
Ford dealer or tire repair shop to have your
tire inspected.
• Drive carefully and avoid abrupt steering
maneuvers.
• Periodically monitor tire inflation pressure
in the affected tire; if the tire is losing
pressure, have the vehicle towed.
• Read the information in the Tips for Use
of the Kit section to make sure safe
operation of the kit and your vehicle.
Tips for Use of the Kit
To ensure safe operation of the kit:
• Read all instructions and cautions fully.
• Before operating the kit, make sure your
vehicle is safely off the road and away
from moving traffic. Turn on the hazard
lights. •
Always set the parking brake to ensure
the vehicle doesn't move unexpectedly.
• Do not remove any foreign objects, such
as nails or screws, from the tire.
• When using the kit, leave the engine
running (only if the vehicle is outdoors or
in a well-ventilated area) so the
compressor does not drain the vehicle's
battery.
• Do not allow the compressor to operate
continuously for more than 15 minutes.
This will help prevent the compressor
from overheating.
• Never leave the kit unattended during
operation.
• Sealant compound contains latex. Those
with latex sensitivities should use
appropriate precautions to avoid an
allergic reaction.
• Keep the kit away from children.
• Only use the kit when the ambient
temperature is between -22°F (-30°C) and
158°F (70°C)
.
318
MKZ (), enUSA Wheels and Tires