Neutral:
It is not recommended to idle the vehicle
in neutral (N) for an extended period of
time because this will discharge your high
voltage battery and decrease fuel
economy. The engine will not start or stop,
and cannot provide power to the hybrid
system in neutral (N).
Low:
Low (L) is designed to mimic the enhanced
engine braking available in non-hybrid
vehicles. Low gear will produce high engine
speeds to provide necessary engine
braking. This is normal and will not damage
your vehicle. In low gear, the gas engine
will remain on more often than in drive (D).
Reverse:
In reverse (R), vehicle speed is limited to
22 mph (35 km/h).
Battery:
Your hybrid is equipped with a high voltage
battery. A cool battery maintains battery
life and provides the best possible
performance. The high voltage battery is
cooled by cabin air drawn from vent holes
in the trim panels behind the rear seats.
Avoid placing objects at the vent holes that
block airflow to the high voltage battery.
Engine:
The engine speed in your hybrid is not
directly tied to your vehicle speed. Your
vehicle's engine and transmission are
designed to deliver the power you need at
the most efficient engine speed. During
heavy accelerations, your hybrid may reach
high engine speeds (up to 6000 RPM). In prolonged mountainous driving, you may
see the engine speed changing without
your input. This is intentional and maintains
the battery charge level. You may also
notice during extended downhill driving
that your engine continues to run instead
of shutting off.
During this engine braking, the engine stays
on, but it is not using any fuel. You may also
hear a slight whine or whistle when
operating your vehicle. This is the normal
operation of the electric generator in the
hybrid system.
During certain events (such as vehicle
servicing) your low voltage 12-volt battery
may become disconnected or disabled.
Once the battery is reconnected and after
driving the vehicle, the engine may
continue to operate for three to five
seconds after the key is turned to off. This
is a normal condition.
Braking:
Your hybrid is equipped with standard
hydraulic braking and regenerative braking.
Regenerative braking is performed by your
transmission and it captures brake energy
and stores it in your high voltage battery.
Driving to Optimize Fuel Economy
Note:
Having your engine running is not
always an indication of inefficiency. In some
cases, it is actually more efficient than
driving in electric mode.
Your fuel economy should improve
throughout your hybrid's break-in period.
As with any vehicle, your driving habits and
accessory usage can significantly impact
your fuel economy. For best results, keep
in mind these tips:
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•
Keep the tires properly inflated and
only use the recommended size.
• Aggressive driving increases the
amount of energy required to move
your vehicle. In general, you can
achieve better fuel economy with mild
to moderate acceleration and
deceleration. Moderate braking is
particularly important since it allows
you to maximize the energy captured
by the regenerative braking system.
Additional Tips:
• Do not carry extra loads.
• Be mindful of adding external
accessories that may increase
aerodynamic drag.
• Observe posted speed limits.
• Perform all scheduled maintenance.
• There is no need to wait for your engine
to warm up. The vehicle is ready to
drive immediately after starting.
PLUG-IN HYBRID VEHICLE
OPERATION
Plug-in Power Mode and Hybrid
Mode
You must plug in your Energi vehicle
regularly for optimal use of the high
voltage battery's extended range
capability. Charging your vehicle adds
electrical energy. This energy is used to
propel the vehicle in plug-in power mode.
Estimated electric range is shown in blue
next to gasoline range at the bottom of the
right information display. You can also
configure MyView to include detailed
vehicle range information. See Gauges
(page 84). The system maximizes the use of
electric-only operation in plug-in power
mode. System conditions may require
engine operation; however, the system
uses plug-in power whenever possible.
When your plug-in power is depleted, the
powertrain system will automatically
switch to hybrid mode. Hybrid mode uses
both the gasoline engine and electric
motor to power your vehicle and maximize
fuel economy.
EV Modes
Your vehicle contains selectable
EV modes through the EV button
located on the center of the
instrument panel, below the climate
controls.
These modes are available when your
vehicle can run under high voltage battery
power. With your vehicle in driving mode,
you can change EV modes with each press
of the EV button. The current mode will be
displayed in the left-hand instrument
cluster screen.
Auto EV This mode provides an
automatic use of high voltage
battery power during the drive,
staying in electric mode when possible and
running the engine when needed. This
mode will be the only one available if the
plug-in power has been depleted.
EV Now This mode provides an electric
only driving experience. The
left-hand information display
changes to a screen displaying your
average miles or kilometers per charge
along with EV specific tools and functions.
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Your vehicle may accelerate more slowly
and the top speed may be lower in EV Now
mode than in Auto EV mode.
You can enable your engine at any time by
using one of the following methods:
1.
Press the OK button on the left 5– way
steering wheel control while viewing
the miles or kilometers per charge
screen. Your vehicle will enable the
engine as needed, and will
automatically return to EV Now after
eight seconds or when the engine is no
longer needed.
2. Press the accelerator pedal fully. A pop
up message will appear. Press OK on
the left-hand steering wheel button to
activate as needed. The message will
disappear if you release the accelerator
pedal.
3. Press the EV button. This will change the mode to EV Later and permit
engine operation.
Your vehicle may automatically enter
Engine Enabled mode if system conditions
require it. A engine enabled message will
display if this occurs. This is normal
function, and your vehicle will return to EV
Now when possible.
Your vehicle may enter Enable Engine
mode if the climate control is in a defrost
mode and the outside temperature is cold.
A engine enabled message will display if
this occurs. If defrost is not needed, select
a different climate control mode to permit
EV Now.
When you enable EV Now, a blue EV icon
displays in the left-hand information
display. If your vehicle is in the Engine
Enabled mode, the EV icon will be yellow.
EV Now will automatically exit when the
Plug in power has been depleted. EV Later This mode saves most of the
high voltage battery plug in
power for future use (for
example, your initial drive is at high speeds
on open roads, but later your drive will be
at low speeds in an urban area where
plug-in power usage is most efficient).
Your vehicle will run the engine as needed
and keep most of the high voltage battery
plug in power for later use in Auto Mode or
EV Now mode.
When you enable EV Later, a white EV
Later icon appears on the left-hand
information display.
The EV Later mode will automatically reset
to EV Auto mode when you power your
vehicle off. You may press the EV button
twice during the next drive to return to EV
Later mode, if desired.
ECO Cruise
Note: ECO Cruise is available as a separate
feature on Energi vehicles only. On non
plug-in vehicles it is included in EcoSelect.
This feature saves vehicle energy by
relaxing acceleration compared to
standard cruise control. For example, your
vehicle may temporarily lose speed when
going uphill. When set to on, ECO appears
in the information display when cruise
control is on.
You can switch it on or off in through the
information display. See General
Information (page 92).
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Settings
ECO Cruise
Driver Assist
Low Engine Use
The low engine use mode is equipped on
Energi models only. The Low Engine Use
mode maintains proper engine lubrication
at sufficient temperature, and will activate
automatically when you drive your vehicle
with limited engine operation. When your
vehicle is in low engine use mode, your
vehicle will automatically run the engine
as necessary.
Note: If your vehicle is in low engine use
mode when you start your vehicle, a
message will appear in the information
display. See General Information (page
92).
If you select the EV Now mode while the
vehicle is in the low engine use mode, EV
Now mode will be suspended for as long
as you are in low engine use mode. The low
engine use mode will resume the next time
you start your vehicle and will
automatically stop when no longer needed.
Note: Cold temperatures will affect the
engine warm up time and the low engine
use mode may operate more frequently. Note:
An oil change is not required but gives
you the option of not running a low engine
use cycle. Resetting the oil life monitoring
system will suspend the low engine use
mode.
Fuel Freshness
See
Fuel Quality (page 143).
ECOSELECT
EcoSelect is a drive mode for non plug-in
vehicles designed to offer the best possible
fuel economy with tradeoffs in vehicle
performance and comfort. To switch EcoSelect on, press
the
ECO button.
A graphic displays on your information
display when EcoSelect is on.
Your vehicle will remember the last
selected mode whenever you start your
vehicle.
EcoSelect allows your vehicle to operate
more efficiently. You will notice:
• Less aggressive cooling.
• Softer acceleration.
• Increased deceleration when coasting.
• Changes in engine behavior.
• ECO cruise control activation.
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HYBRID VEHICLE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Answer
Question
The high voltage battery is electrically isol-ated from the rest of the vehicle when the
key is off. When you switch the key on, high voltage contactors inside the battery are
closed to make the electricity available to the motor and generator and enable the
vehicle to drive. The clicks are the sound of these contactors as they close and open during start up and shut down.
What are the series of clicks from the cargo
area when I first turn the key in the ignition?
The vehicle's computer will determine if an
engine start is required at key-on. Silent keystart will start the engine if it is necessaryfor cabin heating, windshield defrost, or if
the outside temperature is low. (For C-MAX Energi vehicles, the engine may not berequired to operate these functions.)
Why does the engine sometimes start at
key-on?
There are several reasons the engine stayson for an extended amount of time when
you first start it. One common reason is to
make sure that the emissions components are warm enough to minimize tailpipe
emissions. As the climate gets cooler, this engine-on time is extended.
Why does it take a long time before the
engine shuts down?
The engine is required to turn on above thisspeed to protect the transmission hard- ware.
Why does my engine never shut down
above 85 mph (137 km/h)
In order to make sure that the climate
control system can begin heating the cabin or defrosting the windshield as soon as a driver requests it, the engine coolant
temperature has to be kept sufficiently hot. Keeping the engine on is required to main- tain the correct coolant temperature.
Why does my engine stay on when it is
extremely cold outside?
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Answer
Question
Your vehicle's engine and transmission aredesigned to deliver the power you need atthe most efficient engine speed. This may be higher than expected during heavy
accelerations, and may fluctuate when
driving at a steady speed. These are charac- teristics of the Atkinson engine cycle and the 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 located
next to the high voltage battery pack. This fan turns on when the battery requires
cooling air. The fan speed, and associated noise level, will change according to theamount of cooling required to maintain
good performance. Maintaining the battery temperature at optimal conditions also
prolongs the useful life of the battery and helps to achieve better fuel economy.
What is the fan noise I hear from the rear
of my hybrid?
Change the engine oil every 10000 miles
(16000 kilometers) or once per year under normal operating conditions.
What is the engine oil change service
interval?
Your hybrid vehicle can use E15 (15%
ethanol, 85% gasoline) fuel, but you may notice slightly reduced fuel economy
because ethanol contains less energy per
gallon than gasoline. Your hybrid vehicle is not designed to use E85 (85% ethanol).
Can I put E15 or E85 in my vehicle, and how
will it affect my fuel economy?
The high voltage battery system is designedto last the life of the vehicle and requires no maintenance.
How long will my high voltage battery last?
Does it need maintenance?
There are no provisions for charging the
high voltage battery from a power supply
external to the vehicle. (For C-MAX Energi
vehicles, the vehicle can be plugged into a
110-volt outlet with charge cord provided.)
Can you charge the battery with a plug into
an A/C outlet?
Yes. Your hybrid vehicle can be flat towed
without modification. See Towing (page
192).
Can I tow the hybrid behind my motor home
with all four wheels down?
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SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
WARNINGS
Do not overfill the fuel tank. The
pressure in an overfilled tank may
cause leakage and lead to fuel spray
and fire. The fuel system may be under
pressure. If you hear a hissing sound
near the fuel filler inlet, do not refuel
until the sound stops. Otherwise, fuel may
spray out, which could cause serious
personal injury. Fuels can cause serious injury or
death if misused or mishandled.
Flow of fuel through a fuel pump
nozzle can produce static electricity.
This can cause a fire if you are filling
an ungrounded fuel container. Fuel may contain benzene, which is
a cancer-causing agent.
When refueling always shut the
engine off and never allow sparks or
open flames near the fuel tank filler
valve. Never smoke or use a cell phone
while refueling. Fuel vapor is extremely
hazardous under certain conditions. Avoid
inhaling excess fumes. Observe the following guidelines when
handling automotive fuel:
•
Extinguish all smoking materials and
any open flames before refueling your
vehicle.
• Always turn off the vehicle before
refueling. •
Automotive fuels can be harmful or
fatal if swallowed. Fuel such as
gasoline is highly toxic and if
swallowed can cause death or
permanent injury. If fuel is swallowed,
call a physician immediately, even if no
symptoms are immediately apparent.
The toxic effects of fuel may not be
visible for hours.
• Avoid inhaling fuel vapors. Inhaling too
much fuel vapor of any kind can lead
to eye and respiratory tract irritation.
In severe cases, excessive or prolonged
breathing of fuel vapor can cause
serious illness and permanent injury.
• Avoid getting fuel liquid in your eyes. If
fuel is splashed in the eyes, remove
contact lenses (if worn), flush with
water for 15 minutes and seek medical
attention. Failure to seek proper
medical attention could lead to
permanent injury.
• Fuels can also be harmful if absorbed
through the skin. If fuel is splashed on
the skin, clothing or both, promptly
remove contaminated clothing and
wash skin thoroughly with soap and
water. Repeated or prolonged skin
contact with fuel liquid or vapor causes
skin irritation.
• Be particularly careful if you are taking
Antabuse or other forms of Disulfiram
for the treatment of alcoholism.
Breathing gasoline vapors could cause
an adverse reaction, serious personal
injury or sickness. If fuel is splashed on
the skin, wash the affected areas
immediately with plenty of soap and
water. Consult a physician immediately
if you experience any adverse reactions.
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FUEL QUALITY
Choosing the Right Fuel
Your vehicle is designed to operate on
regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum
pump (R+M)/2 octane rating of 87.
Some fuel stations, particularly those in
high altitude areas, offer fuels posted as
regular unleaded gasoline with an octane
rating below 87. We do not recommend
these fuels.
For best overall vehicle and engine
performance, premium fuel with an octane
rating of 91 or higher is recommended. The
performance gained by using premium fuel
is most noticeable in hot weather.
Do not use any fuel other than those
recommended because they could lead to
engine damage that will not be covered by
the vehicle Warranty.
Note:
Use of any fuel other than those
recommended can impair the emission
control system and cause a loss of vehicle
performance.
Do not use:
• Diesel fuel.
• Fuels containing kerosene or paraffin.
• Fuel containing more than 15% ethanol
or E85 fuel.
• Fuels containing methanol.
• Fuels containing metallic-based
additives, including manganese-based
compounds. •
Fuels containing the octane booster
additive, methylcyclopentadienyl
manganese tricarbonyl (MMT).
• Leaded fuel (using leaded fuel is
prohibited by law).
The use of fuels with metallic compounds
such as methylcyclopentadienyl
manganese tricarbonyl (commonly known
as MMT), which is a manganese-based
fuel additive, will impair engine
performance and affect the emission
control system.
Do not be concerned if the engine
sometimes knocks lightly. However, if the
engine knocks heavily while using fuel with
the recommended octane rating, contact
an authorized dealer to prevent any engine
damage.
Fuel Freshness Mode (If Equipped)
This helps keep the fuel system functional
and the fuel fresh.
If you mainly use your vehicle in electric
power mode without refueling, the gasoline
in the fuel tank may become stale due to
aging. Stale gasoline can damage the
engine and fuel system.
Your vehicle automatically switches to fuel
freshness mode if you do not refuel your
vehicle with fresh fuel within an 18-month
period. Fuel freshness mode protects your
vehicle from potential engine and fuel
system damage caused by using stale fuel.
Note: If you do not add new fuel during an
18-month period, fuel freshness mode will
use fuel until approximately
1.2 gal (4.5 L)
of fuel remains in the fuel tank.
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