
When the blockage is removed, the system
can be reset in two ways:
•
when at least two objects are detected
while driving, or
• turn the ignition from on to off, then back
on.
If the blockage is still present after the key
cycle, the system senses again that it is
blocked after driving in traffic. Reasons for messages being displayed
Clean the fascia area in frontof the radar or remove the obstruction.
The radar
surface is dirty or
obstructed
Drive normally in traffic for afew minutes to allow theradar to detect passing
vehicles so it can clear the blocked state.
The radar
surface is
not dirty or obstructed
No action required. The
system automatically resets to an unblocked state once the rainfall or snowfall rate
decreases or stops. Do not
use BLIS or cross traffic alert in these conditions.
Heavy rain-
fall/snowfall interfereswith the radar
signals
System Limitations
The BLIS and cross traffic alert systems do
have their limitations; situations such as
severe weather conditions or debris build-up
on the sensor area may limit vehicle
detection. The following are other situations that may
limit the BLIS:
•
Certain maneuvering of vehicles entering
and exiting the blind zone.
• Vehicles passing through the blind zone
at very fast rates.
• When several vehicles forming a convoy
pass through the blind zone.
The following are other situations that may
limit the cross traffic alert system:
• Adjacently parked vehicles or objects
obstructing the sensors.
• Approaching vehicles passing at speeds
greater than 15 mph (24 km/h).
• Driving in reverse faster than
5 mph
(8 km/h).
• Backing out of an angled parking spot.
False Alerts
Note: If a trailer is connected to the vehicle
the BLIS system may detect the trailer
causing a false alert. You may want to turn
the BLIS off manually.
221
MKZ (), enUSA Driving Aids

There may be certain instances when either
the BLIS or cross traffic alert systems
illuminate the alert indicator with no vehicle
in the coverage zone; this is known as a false
alert. Some amount of false alerts are normal;
they are temporary and self-correct.
System Errors
If either system senses a problem with the
left or right sensor, the BLIS telltale will
illuminate and a message will appear in the
information display.
All other system faults will only be displayed
by a message in the information display.
Switching the Systems Off and On
One or both systems can be switched off
temporarily by using the information display
control. See (page 107). When the BLIS is
switched off, you will not receive alerts and
a telltale illuminates in the information
display. The yellow alert indicator in the
outside mirror will also flash twice. Note:
The CTA system always switches on
whenever the ignition is switched on.
However, the BLIS system will remember the
last selected on or off setting.
One or both systems cannot be switched off
when MyKey is used.
See General
Information (page 374).
One or both systems can also be switched
off permanently at your authorized dealer.
Once switched off, switching it back on must
also be done at your authorized dealer.
STEERING
Electric Power Steering WARNINGS
The electric power steering system has
diagnostic checks that continuously
monitor the system to ensure proper
operation. When a system error is detected
a steering message will appear in the
information display. WARNINGS
The electric power steering system has
diagnostic checks that continuously
monitor the system to ensure proper
operation of the electronic system. When an
electronic error is detected, a message will
be displayed in the information display. If this
happens, stop the vehicle in a safe place,
and turn off the engine. After at least 10
seconds, reset the system by restarting the
engine, and watch the information display
for a steering message. If a steering message
returns, or returns while driving, take the
vehicle to your dealer to have it checked. Obtain immediate service if a system
error is detected. You may not notice
any difference in the feel of your steering,
but a serious condition may exist. Failure to
do so may result in loss of steering control. Your vehicle has an electric power steering
system. There is no fluid reservoir to check
or fill.
222
MKZ (), enUSA Driving Aids

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

Vehicles Equipped with a 3.7L Engine
You can tow your vehicle with all four wheels
on the ground using the Neutral Tow feature,
or with all four wheels off the ground using
a vehicle transport trailer. If you are using a
vehicle transport trailer, follow the instruction
specified by the equipment provider.
If you tow your vehicle with all four wheels
on the ground:
•
Tow only in the forward direction.
• Release the parking brake.
Neutral Tow
Enter Neutral Tow mode by doing the
following:
1. Put the ignition in accessory mode by pressing the engine START button
without pressing the brake pedal.
2. Select Neutral Tow under the Vehicle
Settings menu in the information display.
See
(page 107).
3. Press and hold the OK button to start the
neutral tow process. 4. Press the brake pedal and select
N on
the push-button transmission.
5. Turn the ignition off by pressing the engine START button without pressing
the brake pedal.
If the process is completes successfully:
• the
N on the push-button transmission
blinks slowly
• Neutral Tow Engaged turn ignition off
for towing
appears in the information
display.
Note: If the parking brake is applied, Neutral
Tow remove park brake for towing appears
in the information display.
Note: Do not exceed 65 mph (105 km/h).
Note: Start the engine and allow it to run for
five minutes at the beginning of each day
and every six hours (or fewer). Shut the
engine off and verify that
Neutral tow
engaged appears in the display before
continuing to tow.
Exit Neutral Tow mode, make sure the
ignition is on (engine can be on or off ), press
the brake pedal and select
P on the
push-button transmission. If the process is completed successfully,
Neutral Tow disengaged
appears in the
information display and both the instrument
cluster and push-button transmission display
P
.
243
MKZ (), enUSA Towing

Should your vehicle shut off after a collision,
you may restart your vehicle. For vehicles
equipped with a key system:
1. Switch off the ignition.
2. Switch on the ignition.
3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 to re-enable the
fuel pump.
For vehicles equipped with a push button
start system:
1. Press the START/STOP button to switch
off the ignition.
2. Press the brake pedal and press the START/STOP button to start the vehicle.
3. Remove your foot from the brake pedal and press the
START/STOP button to
switch off the ignition.
4. You can either attempt to start the engine
by pressing the brake pedal and the
START/STOP
button, or switch on the
ignition only by pressing the
START/STOP
button without pressing
the brake pedal. Both ways re-enable the
fuel system. Note:
When you try to restart your vehicle
after a fuel shutoff, the vehicle makes sure
that various systems are safe to restart.
Once your vehicle determines that the
systems are safe, then the vehicle will allow
you to restart.
Note: In the event that your vehicle does not
restart after your third attempt, contact an
authorized dealer.
JUMP STARTING THE VEHICLE WARNINGS
The gases around the battery can
explode if exposed to flames, sparks,
or lit cigarettes. An explosion could result in
personal injury or vehicle damage. Batteries contain sulfuric acid which
can burn skin, eyes and clothing, if
contacted. Use only an adequate-sized cable with
insulated clamps. Preparing Your Vehicle
Note:
Do not attempt to push-start your
automatic transmission vehicle. Automatic
transmissions do not have push-start
capability. Attempting to push-start a vehicle
with an automatic transmission may cause
transmission damage.
Note: Use only a 12-volt supply to start your
vehicle.
Note: Do not disconnect the battery of the
disabled vehicle as this could damage the
vehicle's electrical system.
Park the booster vehicle close to the hood
of the disabled vehicle, making sure the two
vehicles do not touch. Turn all accessories
off.
249
MKZ (), enUSA Roadside Emergencies

The horn and lamps will turn off when:
•
The hazard control button is pressed
• The panic button (if equipped) is pressed
on the remote entry transmitter
• Your vehicle runs out of power
Spinout Detection
If a spinout is detected, the vehicle comes
to a stop and the hazard warning flashers
come on. The message Spinout Detected
Hazards Activated will also appear on the
instrument cluster. The message may not
appear if your vehicle runs out of power.
Once the hazard warning flashers have been
activated, you can turn them off by:
• Pressing the hazard warning flasher
button
• Pressing the remote control unlock
button
• Pressing the remote control panic button
• Cycling the ignition on and off twice
252
MKZ (), enUSA Roadside Emergencies

Protected components
Fuse amp rating
Fuse or relay number
Climate control, Gear shift.
7.5A 2
12
Steering wheel column.
7.5A 2
13
Cluster.
Datalink logic.
Not used (spare).
10A 2
14
Datalink-Gateway module.
10A 2
15
Trunk release.
15A 1
16
Child lock.
Not used (spare).
5A 2
17
Ignition.
5A 2
18
Push button stop-start.
Passenger-airbag-disabled indicator.
5A 2
19
Transmission range.
Adaptive headlamps.
5A 2
20
Humidity and in-car temperature sensor.
5A 2
21
Blind-spot information system.
Rear video camera.
274
MKZ (), enUSA Fuses

When a low voltage battery replacement is
necessary, see an authorized dealer to
replace the low voltage battery with a Ford
recommended replacement low voltage
battery that matches the electrical
requirements of the vehicle
To ensure proper operation of the battery
management system (BMS), do not allow a
technician to connect any electrical device
ground connection directly to the low voltage
battery negative post. A connection at the
low voltage battery negative post can cause
inaccurate measurements of the battery
condition and potential incorrect system
operation.
Note:
If a person adds electrical or electronic
accessories or components to the vehicle,
the accessories or components may
adversely affect the low voltage battery
performance and durability and may also
affect the performance of other electrical
systems in the vehicle.
For longer, trouble-free operation, keep the
top of the battery clean and dry. Also, make
certain the battery cables are always tightly
fastened to the battery terminals. If you see any corrosion on the battery or
terminals, remove the cables from the
terminals and clean with a wire brush. You
can neutralize the acid with a solution of
baking soda and water.
When a battery replacement is required, the
battery should only be replaced with a Ford
recommended replacement battery that
matches the electrical requirements of the
vehicle.
Because your vehicle
’s engine is
electronically-controlled by a computer,
some engine control settings are maintained
by power from the low voltage battery. Some
engine computer settings, like the idle trim
and fuel trim strategy, optimize the
driveability and performance of the engine.
Some other computer settings, like the clock
and radio station presets, are also maintained
in memory by power from the low voltage
battery. When a technician disconnects and
connects the low voltage battery, these
settings are erased. Note:
Until you switch the ignition to the on
position, you will receive a message in your
information display stating that your vehicle
is not in park.
Complete the following procedure in order
to restore the settings:
1. With the vehicle at a complete stop, set the parking brake.
2. Shift the transmission into P.
3. Turn off all accessories.
4. Step on the brake pedal and start the vehicle.
5. Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature. While the engine
is warming up, complete the following:
Reset the clock. See Audio System
(page 370). Reset the power windows
bounce-back feature. See Windows and
Mirrors (page 93). Reset the radio station
presets.
See Audio System (page 370).
6. Allow the engine to idle for at least one minute. If the engine turns off, step on
the accelerator to start the engine.
294
MKZ (), enUSA Maintenance