UNDER HOOD OVERVIEW
Engine coolant reservoir: See Engine Coolant Check (page 84).A
Engine oil filler cap: See Engine Oil Check (page 83).B
Automatic transmission fluid dipstick: See Automatic Transmission FluidCheck (page 87).C
Engine compartment fuse box: See Fuses (page 63).D
Air filter assembly: See Changing the Engine Air Filter (page 93).E
Engine oil dipstick: See Engine Oil Dipstick (page 83).F
Brake fluid reservoir: See Brake Fluid Check (page 88).G
Power steering fluid reservoir: See Power Steering Fluid Check (page 90).H
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To reset the oil life monitoring system dothe following:
1.Switch the ignition on. Do not start theengine.
2.Fully press the accelerator and brakepedals at the same time.
3.Keep the accelerator and brake pedalsfully pressed.
4.After three seconds, a messagedisplays confirming the reset procedureis in progress.
5.After 25 seconds, a message displaysconfirming the reset procedure iscomplete.
6.Release the accelerator and brakepedals.
7.Switch the ignition off.
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, spillingcoolant on hot engine parts can burn you.
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 you loosen the capslightly.
Do not add coolant further than theMAX mark.
When the engine is cold, check theconcentration and level of the enginecoolant at the intervals listed in thescheduled maintenance information. SeeScheduled Maintenance (page 128).
Note:Make sure that the level is betweenthe MIN and MAX marks on the coolantreservoir.
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 coolant,antifreeze or windshield washer fluid outsideof its specified function and vehicle location.
Adding Engine Coolant
Note:Do not use stop leak pellets, coolingsystem sealants, or additives as they cancause damage to the engine cooling orheating systems. Your vehicle’s warrantydoes not cover this damage.
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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 you deplete the engine coolant supply,this feature allows you to drive your vehicletemporarily before you incur incrementalcomponent damage. The fail-safe distancedepends on ambient temperatures, vehicleload 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 indicator will light.
The service engine soonindicator will light.
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.
•This will disable the air conditioningsystem.
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 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 switch off the engine.
2.Have your vehicle towed to anauthorized 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.
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AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID CHECK
WARNING
The dipstick cap and surroundingcomponents may be hot; gloves arerecommended.
Note:Automatic transmission fluidexpands when warmed. To obtain anaccurate fluid check, drive the vehicle untilit is at normal operating temperature(approximately 20 miles [30 km]). If yourvehicle has been operated for an extendedperiod at high speeds, in city traffic duringhot weather or pulling a trailer, the vehicleshould be turned off for about 30 minutesto allow fluid to cool to normal operatingtemperature 196°F - 215°F (91°C - 102°C)before checking.
Refer to your scheduled maintenanceinformation for scheduled intervals for fluidchecks and changes.
Your transmission does not consume fluid.However, the fluid level should be checkedif the transmission is not working properly,(i.e., if the transmission slips or shiftsslowly) or if you notice some sign of fluidleakage. To check the fluid level:
1.Drive the vehicle 20 miles (30 km) oruntil it reaches normal operatingtemperature
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 (Park)and leave the engine running.
5.Remove the dipstick, wiping it cleanwith a clean, dry lint free rag. Ifnecessary, refer to 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.
Do not use supplemental transmissionfluid additives, treatments or cleaningagents. The use of these materials mayaffect transmission operation and resultin damage to internal transmissioncomponents.
Low fluid level
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
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The transmission fluid should be in thisrange if at normal operating temperature196°F - 215°F (91°C - 102°C).
The transmission fluid should be checkedat normal operating temperature 196°F -215°F (91°C - 102°C) on a level surface.The normal operating temperature can bereached after approximately 20 miles (30km) of driving. You can check the fluidwithout driving if the ambient temperatureis above 50°F (10°C). However, if fluid isadded at this time, an overfill conditioncould result when the vehicle reachesnormal operating temperature
High fluid level
Fluid levels above the safe range mayresult in transmission failure. An overfillcondition of transmission fluid may causeshift and/or engagement concerns and/orpossible damage. High fluid levels can becaused by an overheating condition.
Adjusting automatic transmissionfluid levels
Note:Use of a non-approved automatictransmission fluid may cause internaltransmission damage. Before adding anyfluid, make sure the correct type is used. Thetype of fluid used is normally indicated onthe transmission dipstick and also in theSee Capacities and Specifications (page118).
Add fluid in ½ pint (250 ml) incrementsthrough the filler tube until the level iscorrect.
Note:If an overfill occurs, excess fluidshould be removed by an authorized dealer.An overfill condition of transmission fluidmay cause shift and/or engagementconcerns and/or 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.
Automatic transmission fluid filter
The TorqShift6™ automatic transmissionis equipped with a serviceable transmissionfluid filter located inside the transmissionbottom pan. Refer to the scheduledmaintenance information for serviceintervals for the automatic transmissionfluid and transmission filter. Fortransmission filter maintenance, see yourauthorized dealer.
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.
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Hydromax
WARNINGS
Carefully read cautionary informationon product label. For MEDICALEMERGENCY INFORMATION contacta physician or Poison Control Centerimmediately; on Ford-Motorcraft™products call: 1-800-959-3673 (FORD).Failure to follow these instructions mayresult in personal injury.
Use of any brake fluid other than thatindicated for your brake system willcause permanent damage.
Do not let the reservoir for the mastercylinder run dry. This may cause thebrakes to fail and result in personalinjury.
Chassis with gross vehicle weight ratingsof 20500 pounds (9299 kilograms),22000 pounds (9979 kilograms), 24000pounds (10886 kilograms) and 26000pounds (11793 kilograms) are equippedwith Hydromax Brake Booster Systemsand must use Motorcraft DOT 5.1 MotorVehicle Brake Fluid or equivalent meetingFord Specification ESD-M6C57-A. SeeCapacities and Specifications (page122).
Add fluid up to the bottom of the ringslocated at the top of the reservoir. Do notfill above this line.
•Use only DOT 5.1 brake fluid that iscertified to meet Ford specifications.
•A clear gel-like substance in thehydraulic brake master cylinderreservoir may appear on some vehicles.This substance is a silicone baselubricant used during assembly of themaster cylinder. It will float on top ofthe brake hydraulic fluid in the mastercylinder. This condition is normal andin no way affects the operation of thebrake system. It does not require anyservice.
•Brake system fluid should be replacedon a regular basis to maintain optimumbraking performance, especially underheavy-duty driving conditions such asfrequent steep grades or heavy towingloads. See Scheduled Maintenance(page 128).
Hydroboost
Chassis with gross vehicle weight ratingsof 16000 pounds (7257 kilograms), 18000pounds (8165 kilograms) and 19500pounds (8845 kilograms) are equippedwith Hydroboost Brake Booster Systemsand must use Motorcraft HighPerformance DOT 3 Motor Vehicle BrakeFluid or equivalent meeting FordSpecification WSS-M6C62-A.
Add brake fluid from a clean unopenedcontainer until the level reaches MAX. Donot fill above this line. Use only DOT 3brake fluid that is certified to meet Fordspecifications.
Brake system fluid should be replaced ona regular basis to maintain optimumbraking performance, especially underheavy-duty driving conditions such asfrequent steep grades or heavy towingloads. See Scheduled Maintenance(page 128).
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Note:Battery posts, terminals and relatedaccessories contain lead and leadcompounds. Wash hands after handling.
Your vehicle is equipped with aMotorcraft® maintenance-free batterywhich normally does not require additionalwater during its 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.
To ensure proper operation of the batterymanagement system (BMS), any electricaldevices that are added to the vehicleshould not have their ground connectionmade directly at the negative battery post.A connection at the negative battery postcan cause inaccurate measurements ofthe battery condition and potentialincorrect system operation.
Note:Electrical or electronic accessoriesor components added to the vehicle by thedealer or the owner may adversely affectbattery performance and durability and mayalso affect the performance of otherelectrical systems in the vehicle.
When a battery replacement is required,the battery should only be replaced witha Ford recommended replacement batterythat matches the electrical requirementsof the vehicle.
Note:Always dispose of automotivebatteries in a responsible manner. Followyour local authorized standards for disposal.Call your local authorized recycling centerto find out more about recycling automotivebatteries.
Battery relearn
When the battery is disconnected or a newbattery installed:
•The transmission must relearn itsadaptive strategy. As a result of this,the transmission may shift firmly. Thisoperation is considered normal and willnot affect function or durability of thetransmission. Over time the adaptivelearning process will fully updatetransmission operation to its optimumshift feel.
•The clock and the preset radio stationsmust be reset once the battery isreconnected.
•Your vehicle’s engine is electronicallycontrolled by a computer, some controlconditions are maintained by powerfrom the battery, the engine mustrelearn its idle and fuel trim strategy.
When the battery is disconnected or a newbattery is installed, begin the batteryrelearn process:
1.With the vehicle at a complete stop,set the parking brake.
2.Put the gearshift lever in P (Park), turnoff all accessories and start the engine.
3.Run the engine until it reaches normaloperating temperature.
4.Allow the engine to idle for at least oneminute.
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When washing:
•Take care when using a power washerto clean the engine. The high-pressurefluid could penetrate the sealed partsand cause damage.
•Do not spray a hot engine with coldwater to avoid cracking the engineblock or other engine components.
•Spray Motorcraft Engine Shampoo andDegreaser on all parts that requirecleaning and pressure rinse clean. InCanada, use Motorcraft EngineShampoo.
•Never wash or rinse the engine while itis hot or running; water in the runningengine may cause internal damage.
•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 ALLOY
WHEELS (If Equipped)
Note:Do not apply a cleaning chemical towarm or hot wheel rims and covers.
Note:Some automatic car washes maycause damage to the finish on your wheelrims and covers.
Note:Industrial-strength or heavy-dutycleaners in combination with brush agitationto remove brake dust and dirt, could wearaway the clear coat finish over a period time.
Note:Do not use hydrofluoric acid-basedor high caustic-based wheel cleaners, steelwool, fuels or strong household detergents.
Note:If you intend parking your vehicle foran extended period after cleaning thewheels with a wheel cleaner, drive yourvehicle for a few minutes before doing so.This will reduce the risk of increasedcorrosion of the brake discs.
Alloy wheels and wheel covers are coatedwith a clear coat paint finish. To maintaintheir condition we recommend that you:
•Clean the wheels weekly usingMotorcraft Wheel and Tire Cleaner.Apply using manufacturer'sinstructions.
•Use a sponge to remove heavydeposits of dirt and brake dustaccumulation.
•Rinse thoroughly with a strong streamof water when you have completed thecleaning process.
•To remove tar and grease, useMotorcraft Bug and Tar Remover.
VEHICLE STORAGE
If you plan on storing your vehicle for 30days or more, read the followingmaintenance recommendations to makesure your vehicle stays in good operatingcondition.
We engineer and test all motor vehiclesand their components for reliable, regulardriving. Under various conditions,long-term storage may lead to degradedengine performance or failure unless youuse specific precautions to preserve enginecomponents.
General
•Store all vehicles in a dry, ventilatedplace.
•Protect from sunlight, if possible.
•If vehicles are stored outside, theyrequire regular maintenance to protectagainst rust and damage.
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