AnswerQuestion
Your vehicle's engine and transmission aredesigned to deliver the power you need atthe most efficient engine speed. This maybe higher than expected during heavyaccelerations, and may fluctuate whendriving at a steady speed. These are charac-teristics of the Atkinson engine cycle andthe transmission technology that helpmaximize your hybrid's fuel economy.
Why does my engine rev up so high some-times when I accelerate?
The fan noise comes from a fan locatednext to the high voltage battery pack. Thisfan turns on when the battery requirescooling air. The fan speed, and associatednoise level, will change according to theamount of cooling required to maintaingood performance. Maintaining the batterytemperature at optimal conditions alsoprolongs the useful life of the battery andhelps to achieve better fuel economy.
What is the fan noise I hear from the rearof my hybrid?
Change the engine oil every 10000 miles(16000 kilometers) or once per year undernormal operating conditions.
What is the engine oil change serviceinterval?
Your hybrid vehicle can use E15 (15%ethanol, 85% gasoline) fuel, but you maynotice slightly reduced fuel economybecause ethanol contains less energy pergallon than gasoline. Your hybrid vehicle isnot designed to use E85 (85% ethanol).
Can I put E15 or E85 in my vehicle, and howwill it affect my fuel economy?
The high voltage battery system is designedto last the life of the vehicle and requiresno maintenance.
How long will my high voltage battery last?Does it need maintenance?
There are no provisions for charging thehigh voltage battery from a power supplyexternal to the vehicle. (For C-MAX Energivehicles, the vehicle can be plugged into a110-volt outlet with charge cord provided.)
Can you charge the battery with a plug intoan A/C outlet?
Yes. Your hybrid vehicle can be flat towedwithout modification. See Towing (page192).
Can I tow the hybrid behind my motor homewith all four wheels down?
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Unique Driving Characteristics
GENERAL INFORMATION
Note:Occasional brake noise is normal. Ifa metal-to-metal, continuous grinding orcontinuous squeal sound is present, thebrake linings may be worn-out. Have thesystem checked by an authorized dealer. Ifthe vehicle has continuous vibration orshudder in the steering wheel while braking,have it checked by an authorized dealer.
Note:Brake dust may accumulate on thewheels, even under normal drivingconditions. Some dust is inevitable as thebrakes wear and does not contribute tobrake noise. See Cleaning the Wheels(page 252).
See Warning Lamps andIndicators (page 87).
Wet brakes result in reduced brakingefficiency. Gently press the brake pedal afew times when driving from a car wash orstanding water to dry the brakes.
Brake Over Accelerator
In the event the accelerator pedalbecomes stuck or entrapped, apply steadyand firm pressure to the brake pedal toslow the vehicle and reduce engine power.If you experience this condition, apply thebrakes and bring your vehicle to a safestop. Move the transmission to park (P),switch the engine off and apply the parkingbrake. Inspect the accelerator pedal forany interference. If none are found and thecondition persists, have your vehicle towedto the nearest authorized dealer.
Brake Assist
Brake assist detects when you brakeheavily by measuring the rate at which youpress the brake pedal. It providesmaximum braking efficiency as long as youpress the pedal. Brake assist can reducestopping distances in critical situations.
Anti-lock Brake System
This system helps you maintain steeringcontrol during emergency stops by keepingthe brakes from locking.
This lamp momentarilyilluminates when you turn theignition on. If the light does notilluminate during start up, remains on orflashes, the system may be disabled. Havethe system checked by an authorizeddealer. If the anti-lock brake system isdisabled, normal braking is still effective.
If the brake warning lampilluminates when you release theparking brake, have the systemchecked by an authorized dealer.
Regenerative Braking System
This feature is used to simulate the enginebraking of an internal combustion engineand assist the standard brake system whilerecovering some of the energy of motionand storing it in the battery to improve therange of your vehicle. The standard brakesystem is designed to fully stop the car ifregenerative braking is not available.During regenerative braking, the motor isspun as a generator to create electricalcurrent. This recharges the battery andslows the vehicle. In effect, once theaccelerator pedal is released, the motorchanges from an energy user to an energyproducer.
When the accelerator pedal is released orthe brake pedal is applied, the brakecontroller automatically detects theamount of deceleration requested andoptimizes how much of the decelerationwill be produced by regenerative braking.The remaining portion is generated by
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PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION
WARNINGS
Vehicle modifications involvingbraking system, aftermarket roofracks, suspension, steering system,tire construction and wheel and tire sizemay change the handling characteristicsof your vehicle and may adversely affectthe performance of the electronic stabilitycontrol system. In addition, installing anystereo loudspeakers may interfere withand adversely affect the electronic stabilitycontrol system. Install any aftermarketstereo loudspeaker as far as possible fromthe front center console, the tunnel, andthe front seats in order to minimize the riskof interfering with the electronic stabilitycontrol sensors. Reducing theeffectiveness of the electronic stabilitycontrol system could lead to an increasedrisk of loss of vehicle control, vehiclerollover, personal injury and death.
Remember that even advancedtechnology cannot defy the laws ofphysics. It’s always possible to losecontrol of a vehicle due to inappropriatedriver input for the conditions. Aggressivedriving on any road condition can causeyou to lose control of your vehicleincreasing the risk of personal injury orproperty damage. Activation of theelectronic stability control system is anindication that at least some of the tireshave exceeded their ability to grip the road;this could reduce the operator’s ability tocontrol the vehicle potentially resulting ina loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover,personal injury and death. If your electronicstability control system activates, SLOWDOWN.
The system automatically turns on eachtime you switch the ignition on.
If a fault occurs in either the stabilitycontrol or the traction control system, youmay experience the following conditions:
•The stability and traction control lightilluminates steadily.
•The stability control and tractioncontrol systems do not enhance yourvehicle's ability to maintain traction ofthe wheels.
If a driving condition activates either thestability control or the traction controlsystem you may experience the followingconditions:
•The stability and traction control lightflashes.
•Your vehicle slows down.
•Reduced engine power.
•A vibration in the brake pedal.
•The brake pedal is stiffer than usual.
•If the driving condition is severe andyour foot is not on the brake, the brakepedal may move as the system applieshigher brake force.
The stability control system has severalfeatures built into it to help you maintaincontrol of your vehicle:
Electronic Stability Control
The system enhances your vehicle’s abilityto prevent skids or lateral slides byapplying brakes to one or more of thewheels individually and, if necessary,reducing engine power.
Roll Stability Control
The system enhances your vehicle’s abilityto prevent rollovers by detecting yourvehicle’s roll motion and the rate at whichit changes by applying the brakes to oneor more wheels individually.
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Stability Control
The system does not position the vehicle where I want in the space
A parked vehicle has a high attachment (for example, a salt sprayer, snowplow, movingtruck bed, and so forth).
The parking space length or position of parked objects changed after your vehicle passed.
The temperature around your vehicle changes quickly (for example, driving from aheated garage into the cold, or after leaving a car wash).
REAR VIEW CAMERA (If Equipped)
WARNINGS
The rear view camera system is areverse aid supplement device thatstill requires the driver to use it inconjunction with the interior and exteriormirrors for maximum coverage.
Objects that are close to eithercorner of the bumper or under thebumper, might not be seen on thescreen due to the limited coverage of thecamera system.
Reverse your vehicle as slow aspossible, higher speeds may limityour reaction time to stop yourvehicle.
Use caution when the rear cargo dooris ajar. If the rear cargo door is ajar,the camera will be out of positionand the video image may be incorrect. Allguidelines disappear when the rear cargodoor is ajar. Some vehicles may not comeequipped with guidelines.
Use caution when turning camerafeatures on or off when thetransmission is not in park (P). Makesure your vehicle is not moving.
The rear view camera system provides avideo image of the area behind yourvehicle.
During operation, lines appear in thedisplay which represent your vehicle’s pathand proximity to objects behind yourvehicle.
The camera is located on the rear cargodoor.
Using the Rear View CameraSystem
The rear view camera system displayswhat is behind your vehicle when you placethe transmission in reverse (R).
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Parking AidsE162528
The system uses three types of guides tohelp you see what is behind your vehicle:
•Active guidelines: Show the intendedpath of your vehicle when reversing.
•Fixed guidelines: Show the actual pathyour vehicle is moving in while reversingin a straight line. This can be helpfulwhen backing into a parking space oraligning your vehicle with anotherobject behind you.
•Centerline: Helps align the center ofyour vehicle with an object (forexample, a trailer).
Note:If the transmission is in reverse (R)and the rear cargo door is ajar, no rear viewcamera features are displayed.
Note:If the image comes on while thetransmission is not in reverse (R), have thesystem inspected by your authorized dealer.
Note:When towing, the camera only seeswhat is being towed behind your vehicle.This might not provide adequate coverageas it usually provides in normal operationand some objects might not be seen. Insome vehicles, the guidelines may disappearonce the trailer tow connector is engaged.
Note:The camera may not operatecorrectly under the following conditions:
•Nighttime or dark areas if one or bothreverse lamps are not operating.
•The camera's view is obstructed bymud, water or debris. Clean the lenswith a soft, lint-free cloth andnon-abrasive cleaner.
•The rear of your vehicle is hit ordamaged, causing the camera tobecome misaligned.
Access the rear view camera systemsettings through the information display.See General Information (page 92).
After changing a system setting, thedisplay screen shows a preview of theselected features.
Camera Guidelines
Note:Dynamic guidelines are only availablewhen the transmission is in reverse (R).
Active guidelinesA
CenterlineB
Fixed guideline: Green zoneC
Fixed guideline: Yellow zoneD
Fixed guideline: Red zoneE
Rear bumperF
Active guidelines are only shown with fixedguidelines. To use active guidelines, turnthe steering wheel to point the guidelinestoward an intended path. If the steeringwheel position is changed while reversing,your vehicle might deviate from the originalintended path.
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E
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You are required to submit your warrantydispute to BBB AUTO LINE before assertingin court any rights or remedies conferredby California Civil Code Section 1793.22(b).You are also required to use BBB AUTOLINE before exercising rights or seekingremedies created by the FederalMagnuson-Moss Warranty Act, 15 U.S.C.sec. 2301 et seq. If you choose to seekredress by pursuing rights and remediesnot created by California Civil Code Section1793.22(b) or the Magnuson-MossWarranty Act, resort to BBB AUTO LINE isnot required by those statutes.
THE BETTER BUSINESS
BUREAU (BBB) AUTO LINE
PROGRAM (U.S. ONLY)
Your satisfaction is important to FordMotor Company and to your dealer. If awarranty concern has not been resolvedusing the three-step procedure outlinedearlier in this chapter in the Getting theServices you need section, you may beeligible to participate in the BBB AUTOLINE program.
The BBB AUTO LINE program consists oftwo parts – mediation and arbitration.During mediation, a representative of theBBB will contact both you and Ford MotorCompany to explore options for settlementof the claim. If an agreement is not reachedduring mediation or you do not want toparticipate in mediation, and if your claimis eligible, you may participate in thearbitration process. An arbitration hearingwill be scheduled so that you can presentyour case in an informal setting before animpartial person. The arbitrator willconsider the testimony provided and makea decision after the hearing.
Disputes submitted to the BBB AUTO LINEprogram are usually decided within fortydays after you file your claim with the BBB.You are not bound by the decision, andmay reject the decision and proceed tocourt where all findings of the BBB AutoLine dispute, and decision, are admissiblein the court action. Should you choose toaccept the BBB AUTO LINE decision, Fordis then bound by the decision, and mustcomply with the decision within 30 daysof receipt of your acceptance letter.
BBB AUTO LINE Application: Using theinformation provided below, please call orwrite to request a program application.You will be asked for your name andaddress, general information about yournew vehicle, information about yourwarranty concerns, and any steps you havealready taken to try to resolve them. ACustomer Claim Form will be mailed thatwill need to be completed, signed andreturned to the BBB along with proof ofownership. Upon receipt, the BBB willreview the claim for eligibility under theProgram Summary Guidelines.
You can get more information bycalling BBB AUTO LINE at1-800-955-5100, or writing to:
BBB AUTO LINE3033 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 600Arlington, Virginia 22201
BBB AUTO LINE applications can also berequested by calling the Ford MotorCompany Customer Relationship Centerat 1-800-392-3673.
Note:Ford Motor Company reserves theright to change eligibility limitations, modifyprocedures, or to discontinue this processat any time without notice and withoutobligation.
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Customer Assistance
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.
Operating in Cold Climates andShort Driving Cycles
Some gasoline engines may experience abuildup of moisture in the engine oil ifrepeatedly operated in cold weather andshort driving cycles that do not fully warmthe engine.
When you see a thick milky substanceunder the oil cap, this indicates moistureis present.
This condition can be more prevalent ingas electric hybrid vehicles that run the gasengine for very short driving cycles.
To prevent engine damage under theseconditions customers should follow thesesteps:
•Drive your vehicle at full enginetemperature for 15 to 30 minutes.
•Drive your vehicle at highway speeds.
•Drive your vehicle with the defroster(hybrid vehicles) at full.
We recommend frequent oil changes.Follow severe duty cycle in themaintenance guide. This helps remove themoisture contaminated oil from the engine.
Cold Weather Operation
To determine if the shortened oil changeinterval or warming of the engine issufficient, clean and check the oil fill capon a regular basis. This will confirm thatthe thick milky substance is not returning.
When extreme cold weather and sub-zeroconditions exist, fuel may be found in theengine oil. This is caused by the engine notreaching its full engine temperature.
In this situation, carry out the above stepsto prevent engine damage.
OIL CHANGE INDICATOR
RESET (If Equipped)
Resetting the Oil Life MonitoringSystem
Only reset the oil life monitoring systemafter changing the engine oil and oil filter.
1.Switch the ignition on. Do not start theengine. For vehicles with push-buttonstart, press and hold the start buttonfor two seconds without pressing thebrake pedal. Do not start the engine.
2.Press the accelerator and brake pedalsat the same time.
3.Keep the accelerator and brake pedalsfully pressed.
4. After three seconds, a messageconfirming that the reset is in progresswill be displayed.
5. After 25 seconds, a messageconfirming that the reset is completewill be displayed.
6. Release the accelerator and brakepedals.
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Maintenance
Note:If prediluted coolant is not available,use the approved concentrated coolantdiluting it to 50/50 with distilled water. SeeCapacities and Specifications (page 282).Using water that has not been deionisedmay contribute to deposit formation,corrosion and plugging of the small coolingsystem passageways.
Note:Coolants marketed for all makes andmodels may not be approved to Fordspecifications and may cause damage tothe cooling system. Resulting componentdamage may not be covered by the vehicleWarranty.
If the coolant level is at or below theminimum mark, add prediluted coolantimmediately.
To top up the coolant level do thefollowing:
1. Unscrew the cap slowly. Any pressureescapes as you unscrew the cap.
2. Add prediluted coolant approved tothe correct specification. SeeCapacities and Specifications (page282).
3. Add enough prediluted coolant toreach the correct level.
4.Replace the coolant reservoir cap, turnit clockwise until you feel a strongresistance.
5. Check the coolant level in the coolantreservoir the next few times you driveyour vehicle. If necessary, add enoughprediluted engine coolant to bring thecoolant level to the correct level.
If you have to add more than 1.1 qt (1 L) ofengine coolant per month, have yourvehicle checked as soon as possible.Operating an engine with a low level ofcoolant can result in engine overheatingand possible engine damage.
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:In case of emergency, you can add alarge amount of water without coolant inorder to reach a vehicle service location.Water alone, without coolant, can causeengine damage from corrosion, overheatingor freezing. When you reach a servicelocation, you must have the cooling systemdrained and refilled with prediluted coolantapproved to the correct specification. SeeCapacities and Specifications (page 282).
Do not use the following as a coolantsubstitute:
•Alcohol.
•Methanol.
•Brine.
•Any coolant mixed with alcohol ormethanol antifreeze.
Alcohol and other liquids can cause enginedamage from overheating or freezing.
Do not add extra inhibitors or additives tothe coolant. These can be harmful andcompromise the corrosion protection ofthe coolant.
Recycled Coolant
We do not recommend the use of recycledcoolant as an approved recycling processis not yet available.
Dispose of used engine coolant in anappropriate manner. Follow yourcommunity’s regulations and standardsfor recycling and disposing of automotivefluids.
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Maintenance