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Inverter system controller.E
Brake fluid reservoir cap. See Brake Fluid Check (page 227).F
Power distribution box. See Fuses (page 209).G
Inverter system controller coolant reservoir cap.H
Windshield washer fluid reservoir cap. See Washer Fluid Check (page 227).I
ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK
MINA
MAXB
ENGINE OIL CHECK
Check the level before starting the engineand make sure that the level is betweenthe MIN and the MAX marks.
1. Make sure that your vehicle is on levelground.
2. Switch the engine off and wait 10minutes for the oil to drain into the oilpan.
3. Remove the dipstick and wipe it witha clean, lint-free cloth. Replace thedipstick and remove it again to checkthe oil level.
If the oil level is at the minimum mark, addoil immediately.
Adding Engine Oil
Note:Do not remove the filler cap whenthe engine is running.
Note:Do not add oil further than the MAXmark. Oil levels above the MAX mark maycause engine damage.
Only use oils certified for gasoline enginesby the American Petroleum Institute (API).An oil with this trademark symbolconforms to the current engine andemission system protection standards andfuel economy requirements of theInternational Lubricants SpecificationAdvisory Council (ILSAC), comprised ofU.S. and Japanese automobilemanufacturers.
1. Remove the filler cap.
2. Add engine oil that meets the Fordspecifications. See Capacities andSpecifications (page 276).
3. Wipe off any spilled oil.
4. Replace the filler cap. Turn it until youfeel a strong resistance.
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Low Engine Use (If Equipped)
The low engine use mode is equipped onEnergi models only. The low engine usemode keeps the engine oil quality in goodcondition when you drive your vehicle withlimited engine use. If your vehicle is in lowengine use mode when you start thevehicle, a message appears in theinformation display. When your vehicle isin low engine use mode, your vehicle runsthe engine as necessary.
Selecting EV Now mode when your vehicleis in the low engine use mode suspendsthe low engine use mode for as long as youcontinue driving your vehicle. The lowengine use mode resumes the next timeyou start your vehicle.
Changing the engine oil and resetting theoil life monitoring system suspends the lowengine use mode.
ENGINE COOLANT CHECK
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.
Engine Coolant and InverterSystem Controller Coolant
Your vehicle has two separate coolingsystems. One is for cooling the engine andone is for cooling the inverter systemcontroller that is specific to the hybridoperating system. The two systemsoperate similarly, with the inverter systemcontroller cooling system generallyoperating at a lower temperature andpressure.
Checking the Engine Coolant
When the engine is cold, check theconcentration and level of the enginecoolant at the intervals listed in thescheduled maintenance information. SeeScheduled Maintenance (page 348).
Note:Make sure that the level is betweenthe MIN and MAX marks on the enginecoolant reservoir.
Note:Coolant expands when it is hot. Thelevel may extend beyond the MAX mark.
Note:If the level is at the MIN mark, belowthe MIN mark, or empty, add coolantimmediately. See Adding Engine Coolantin this chapter.
The coolant concentration should bemaintained within 48% to 50%, whichequates to a freeze point between -30°F(-34°C) and -34°F (-37°C).
Note:For best results, coolantconcentration should be tested with arefractometer such as Robinair® Coolantand Battery Refractometer 75240. We donot recommend the use of hydrometers orcoolant test strips for measuring coolantconcentrations.
Note:Automotive fluids are notinterchangeable. Do not use engine coolantor antifreeze or windshield washer fluidoutside of its specified function and vehiclelocation.
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Checking the Inverter SystemController Coolant
When the engine is cold, check theconcentration and level of the invertersystem controller coolant at the intervalslisted in the scheduled maintenanceinformation. See ScheduledMaintenance (page 348).
Note:Make sure that the level is betweenthe MIN and MAX marks on the invertersystem controller coolant reservoir.
Note:Coolant expands when it is hot. Thelevel may extend beyond the MAX mark.
Note:If the level is at the MIN mark, belowthe MIN mark, or empty, add coolantimmediately. See Adding Inverter SystemController Coolant in this chapter.
The coolant concentration should bemaintained within 48% to 50%, whichequates to a freeze point between -30°F(-34°C) and -34°F (-37°C).
Note:For best results, coolantconcentration should be tested with arefractometer such as Robinair® Coolantand Battery Refractometer 75240. We donot recommend the use of hydrometers orcoolant test strips for measuring coolantconcentrations.
Note:Automotive fluids are notinterchangeable. Do not use engine coolantor antifreeze or windshield washer fluidoutside of its specified function and vehiclelocation.
Adding Coolant
Note:Do not use stop leak pellets, coolingsystem sealants, or additives as they cancause damage to the cooling or heatingsystems. This damage would not be coveredunder your vehicle’s warranty.
Note:During normal vehicle operation, thecoolant may change color from orange topink or light red. As long as the coolant isclear and uncontaminated, this color changedoes not indicate the coolant has degradednor does it require the coolant to be drained,the system to be flushed, or the coolant tobe replaced.
Note:It is very important to use coolantmeeting the Ford specification in order toavoid plugging the small coolantpassageways. Use of concentrated coolantand water may cause coolant passagewayplugging and void the warranty. SeeCapacities and Specifications (page 276).
•Do not mix different colors or types ofcoolant in your vehicle. Make sure thecorrect coolant is used. Mixing ofcoolants may harm your coolingsystem. The use of an improper coolantmay harm the engine, inverter systemcontroller, and cooling systemcomponents and may void thewarranty.
•In case of emergency, a large amountof water without engine coolant maybe added to the engine cooling systemin order to reach a vehicle servicelocation. In this instance, the enginecooling system must be drained,chemically cleaned with MotorcraftPremium 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 this method for theinverter system controller coolingsystem. The inverter system controllercooling system operates close toambient temperature, and issusceptible to freezing in anysubfreezing environment in theabsence of coolant.
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•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.
Adding Engine Coolant
1. Unscrew the engine coolant reservoircap slowly. Any pressure will escapeas you unscrew the cap.
2. Use a funnel to add engine coolant tothe engine coolant reservoir. Make surethat the level is between the MIN andMAX marks on the engine coolantreservoir. Use engine coolant meetingthe Ford specification. See Capacitiesand Specifications (page 276).
3.Close the engine coolant reservoir cap.
Whenever you add coolant, check thecoolant level in the engine coolant reservoirthe next few times you drive the vehicle. Ifnecessary, add enough engine coolant tobring the engine coolant level to the properlevel.
Adding Inverter System ControllerCoolant
1. Open the inverter system controllercoolant reservoir cap.
2. Use a funnel to add coolant to theinverter system controller coolantreservoir. Make sure that the level isbetween the MIN and MAX marks onthe inverter system controller coolantreservoir. Use coolant meeting the Fordspecification. See Capacities andSpecifications (page 276).
3. Close the inverter system controllercoolant reservoir cap.
Whenever you add coolant, check thecoolant level in the inverter systemcontroller coolant reservoir the next fewtimes you drive the vehicle. If necessary,add enough coolant to bring the invertersystem controller coolant level to theproper level.
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 anauthorized Ford dealer increase thecoolant concentration 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 anauthorized Ford dealer decrease thecoolant concentration to 40%.
•A coolant concentration of 40% willprovide improved overheat protection.Engine coolant concentrations below40% will decrease the freeze andcorrosion protection characteristics ofthe engine coolant and may causeengine damage.
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Vehicles driven year-round in non-extremeclimates should use coolant meeting theFord specification for optimum coolingsystem and engine 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.
When Fail-Safe Mode Is Activated
WARNINGS
Fail-safe mode is for use duringemergencies only. Operate yourvehicle in fail-safe mode only as longas necessary to bring your vehicle to restin a safe location and seek immediaterepairs. When in fail-safe mode, yourvehicle will have limited power, will not beable to maintain high-speed operation, andmay completely shut down withoutwarning, potentially losing engine power,power steering assist, and power brakeassist, which may increase the possibilityof a crash resulting in serious injury.
Never remove the coolant reservoircap while the engine is running or hot.
Note:Driving the vehicle without repairingthe engine problem increases the chance ofengine damage. Take your vehicle to anauthorized dealer as soon as possible.
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.
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AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID CHECK
If required, have an authorized dealer checkand change the transmission fluid at thecorrect service interval. See ScheduledMaintenance (page 348).
The automatic transmission does not havea transmission fluid dipstick. Yourtransmission does not consume fluid.
An authorized dealer should check thefluid:
•If the transmission is not workingproperly.
•If you notice signs of fluid leakage.
Do not use supplemental transmissionfluid additives, treatments or cleaningagents. The use of these materials mayaffect transmission operation and resultin damage to internal transmissioncomponents.
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
Your vehicle is equipped with an electricpower steering (EPS) system. There is nofluid reservoir to check or fill.
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.
Note:The front and rear washer systemsare supplied from the same reservoir.
Add fluid to fill the reservoir if the level islow. Only use a washer fluid that meetsFord specifications. See Capacities andSpecifications (page 276).
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.
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CHANGING THE 12V BATTERY
WARNINGS
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 correctventilation.
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.
Battery posts, terminals and relatedaccessories contain lead and leadcompounds. Wash hands afterhandling.
Your vehicle has a Motorcraft®maintenance-free battery which normallydoes not require additional water duringits life of service.
Note:If your vehicle's battery has a coveror shield, make sure it is reinstalled after thebattery has been cleaned or replaced.
Note:See an authorized dealer for lowvoltage battery access, testing, orreplacement.
When a low voltage battery replacementis necessary, see an authorized dealer toreplace the low voltage battery with a Fordrecommended replacement low voltagebattery that matches the electricalrequirements of the vehicle.
To ensure proper operation of the batterymanagement system (BMS), do not allowa technician to connect any electricaldevice ground connection directly to thelow voltage battery negative post. Aconnection at the low voltage batterynegative post can cause inaccuratemeasurements of the battery conditionand potential incorrect system operation.
Note:If a person adds electrical orelectronic accessories or components to thevehicle, the accessories or components mayadversely affect the low voltage batteryperformance and durability and may alsoaffect the performance of other electricalsystems in the vehicle.
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.
When a battery replacement is required,the battery should only be replaced witha Ford recommended replacement batterythat matches the electrical requirementsof the vehicle.
Because your vehicle’s engine iselectronically-controlled by a computer,some engine control settings aremaintained by power from the low voltagebattery. Some engine computer settings,like the idle trim and fuel trim strategy,optimize the driveability and performanceof the engine. Some other computersettings, like the clock and radio station
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presets, are also maintained in memory bypower from the low voltage battery. Whena technician disconnects and connects thelow voltage battery, these settings areerased. Complete the following procedurein order to restore the settings:
1. With the vehicle at a complete stop,set the parking brake.
2. Shift into park (P).
3. Switch off all accessories.
4. Fully press the brake pedal and startthe vehicle.
5. Run the engine until it reaches normaloperating temperature. While theengine is warming up, complete thefollowing: Reset the clock. See AudioSystem (page 283). Reset the powerwindows bounce-back feature. SeeWindows and Mirrors (page 80).Reset the radio station presets. SeeAudio System (page 283).
6.Allow the engine to idle for at least oneminute. If the engine turns off, pressthe accelerator pedal to start theengine.
7. While the engine is running, press thebrake pedal and shift into neutral (N).
8.Allow the engine to run for at least oneminute by pressing on the acceleratorpedal.
9.Drive the vehicle at least 12 mi (20 km)to completely relearn the idle and fueltrim strategy.
Note:If you do not allow the engine torelearn the idle and fuel trim strategy, theidle quality of your vehicle may be adverselyaffected until the engine computereventually relearns the idle trim and fueltrim strategy.
Make sure that you dispose of old batteriesin an environmentally friendly way. Seekadvice from your local authority aboutrecycling old batteries.
CHECKING THE WIPER
BLADES
Run the tip of your fingers over the edge ofthe blade to check for roughness.
Clean the wiper blades with washer fluidor water applied with a soft sponge orcloth.
CHANGING THE WIPER
BLADES
Replace the wiper blades at least annuallyfor optimum performance.
You can improve poor wiper quality bycleaning the wiper blades and thewindshield.
Note: The windshield wiper blades aredifferent in length. If you install wiperblades of the wrong length, the wiper bladescan clash damaging the wiper system.
Service Position
Set the windshield wipers in the serviceposition to change the wiper blades.
Note:You can use the service position toprovide easier access to the wiper bladesfor freeing them from snow and ice.
Note:Make sure the windshield is free fromsnow and ice before you switch the ignitionon.
1. Switch the ignition on.
2. Switch the ignition off.
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