Although natural obstacles may make itnecessary to travel diagonally up or downa hill or steep incline, you should alwaystry to drive straight up or straight down.
When climbing a steep slope or hill, startin a lower gear rather than downshifting toa lower gear from a higher gear once theascent has started. This reduces strain onthe engine and the possibility of stalling.
If you do stall out, do not try to turnaroundbecause you might roll over. It is better toback down to a safe location.
Apply just enough power to the wheels toclimb the hill. Too much power will causethe tires to slip, spin or lose traction,resulting in loss of vehicle control.
Descend a hill in the same gear you woulduse to climb up the hill to avoid excessivebrake application and brake overheating.Do not descend in neutral; instead,disengage overdrive or manually shift to alower gear. When descending a steep hill,avoid sudden hard braking as you couldlose control. The front wheels have to beturning in order to steer the vehicle.
Your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, thereforeapply the brakes steadily. Do not “pump”the brakes.
Maintenance and Modifications
The suspension and steering systems onyour vehicle have been designed andtested to provide predictable performancewhether loaded or empty and durable loadcarrying capability. For this reason, FordMotor Company strongly recommends thatyou do not make modifications such asadding or removing parts (such as loweringkits or stabilizer bars) or by usingreplacement parts not equivalent to theoriginal factory equipment.
Any modifications to a vehicle that raisethe center of gravity can make it more likelythe vehicle will rollover as a result of a lossof control. Ford Motor Companyrecommends that caution be used withany vehicle equipped with a high load ordevice (such as ladder or luggage racks).
Failure to maintain your vehicle properlymay void the warranty, increase your repaircost, reduce vehicle performance andoperational capabilities and adverselyaffect driver and passenger safety.Frequent inspection of vehicle chassiscomponents is recommended if the vehicleis subjected to off-highway usage.
145EcoSport (CBW) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 14-08-2017, GN15-19G219-ZFB enUSA, First PrintingFour-Wheel Drive (If Equipped)
GENERAL INFORMATION
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. Shift the transmission to park (P)(automatic transmission) or to a low gear(manual transmission), switch the engineoff and apply the parking brake.
Inspect the accelerator pedal and the areaaround it for any items or debris that maybe obstructing its movement. If none arefound and the condition persists, have yourvehicle towed to the dealer for service.
Emergency Brake Assist
Emergency brake assist detects when youbrake heavily by measuring the rate atwhich you press the brake pedal. Itprovides maximum braking efficiency aslong as you press the pedal. Emergencybrake assist can reduce stopping distancesin critical situations.
Anti-lock Brake System (If Equipped)
This system helps you maintain steeringcontrol and vehicle stability duringemergency stops by keeping the brakesfrom locking.
This lamp momentarilyilluminates when you switch 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.
Note: Occasional brake noise is normal. Ifa metal-to-metal, continuous grinding orcontinuous squeal sound is present, thebrake linings may be worn-out. If yourvehicle has continuous vibration or shudderin the steering wheel while braking, haveyour vehicle checked by an authorizeddealer.
Note: Brake dust may accumulate on thewheels, even under normal drivingconditions. Some dust is inevitable as thebrakes wear. See Cleaning the Wheels(page 234).
Note:Depending on applicable laws andregulations in the country for which yourvehicle was originally built, the brake lampsmay flash during heavy braking. Followingthis the hazard warning flashers may alsoflash when your vehicle comes to a stop.
See Warning Lamps andIndicators (page 81).
HINTS ON DRIVING WITH
ANTI-LOCK BRAKES
The anti-lock braking system does noteliminate the risks when:
•You drive too closely to the vehicle infront of you.
•Your vehicle is hydroplaning.
146EcoSport (CBW) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 14-08-2017, GN15-19G219-ZFB enUSA, First PrintingBrakes
•You take corners too fast.
•The road surface is poor.
Note: If the system activates, the brakepedal may pulse and may travel further.Maintain pressure on the brake pedal. Youmay also hear a noise from the system. Thisis normal.
PARKING BRAKE
Vehicles With AutomaticTransmission
WARNING
Always set the parking brake fullyand leave your vehicle with thetransmission selector lever inposition P.
Note:If you park your vehicle on a hill andfacing uphill move the transmission selectorlever to position P and turn the steeringwheel away from the curb.
Note:If you park your vehicle on a hill andfacing downhill move the transmissionselector lever to position P and turn thesteering wheel toward the curb.
Vehicles With ManualTransmission
WARNING
Always set the parking brake fully.
Note:If you park your vehicle on a hill andfacing uphill select first gear and turn thesteering wheel away from the curb.
Note:If you park your vehicle on a hill andfacing downhill select reverse gear and turnthe steering wheel toward the curb.
All Vehicles
Note:Do not press the release button whilepulling the lever up.
To apply the parking brake:
1.Press the foot brake pedal firmly.
2.Pull the parking brake lever up to itsfullest extent.
To release the parking brake:
1.Press the brake pedal firmly.
2.Pull the lever up slightly.
3.Press the release button and push thelever down.
HILL START ASSIST
WARNINGS
The system does not replace theparking brake. When you leave yourvehicle, always apply the parkingbrake and shift the transmission into park(P) for automatic transmission or first gearfor manual transmission.
You must remain in your vehiclewhen the system turns on. At alltimes, you are responsible forcontrolling your vehicle, supervising thesystem and intervening, if required. Failureto take care may result in the loss ofcontrol of your vehicle, serious personalinjury or death.
The system turns off if there is amalfunction or if you excessively revthe engine.
The system makes it easier to pull awaywhen your vehicle is on a slope without theneed to use the parking brake.
147EcoSport (CBW) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 14-08-2017, GN15-19G219-ZFB enUSA, First PrintingBrakes
Active guidelinesA
CenterlineB
Fixed guideline: Green zoneC
Fixed guideline: Yellow zoneD
Fixed guideline: Red zoneE
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.
The fixed and active guidelines fade in andout depending on the steering wheelposition. The active guidelines are notshown when the steering wheel positionis straight.
Always use caution while reversing.Objects in the red zone are closest to yourvehicle and objects in the green zone arefarther away. Objects are getting closer toyour vehicle as they move from the greenzone to the yellow or red zones. Use theexterior mirrors and rear view mirror to getbetter coverage on both sides and rear ofyour vehicle.
Manual Zoom
WARNING
When manual zoom is on, the fullarea behind your vehicle may notshow. Be aware of your surroundingswhen using the manual zoom feature.
Note:Manual zoom is only available whenthe transmission is in reverse (R).
Note:When manual zoom is enabled, onlythe centerline is shown.
This allows you to get a closer view of anobject behind your vehicle. The zoomedimage keeps the bumper in the image toprovide a reference. The zoom is onlyactive while the transmission is in reverse(R). When the transmission is shifted outof reverse (R), the feature automaticallyturns off and must be reset when it is usedagain.
Selectable settings for this feature are +and -. The default setting for the manualzoom is OFF.
Rear Camera Delay (If Equipped)
When you shift the transmission out ofreverse (R) and into any gear while the rearcamera delay is active, the camera imagedisplays until:
•Your vehicle speed sufficientlyincreases.
•You shift your vehicle into park (P).
154EcoSport (CBW) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 14-08-2017, GN15-19G219-ZFB enUSA, First PrintingParking Aids (If Equipped)
PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION
Cruise control allows you to control yourspeed using the switches on the steeringwheel. You can use cruise control whenyou exceed 20 mph or 30 km/h.
Note:The system cancels if your vehiclespeed drops below 10 mph / 16km/h underthe set speed when driving uphill.
Changing the Set Speed
Press and release SET + or SET -. Whenyou select km/h as the displaymeasurement in the information displaythe set speed changes in 1km/hincrements. When you select mph as thedisplay measurement in the informationdisplay the set speed changes in 1 mphincrements.
USING CRUISE CONTROL
WARNINGS
Do not use cruise control on windingroads, in heavy traffic or when theroad surface is slippery. This couldresult in loss of vehicle control, seriousinjury or death.
When you are going downhill, yourvehicle speed could increase abovethe set speed. The system does notapply the brakes.
To help the system to maintain the setspeed when going downhill, downshift toa lower gear.
Note:The system cancels if your vehiclespeed drops below 10 mph (16 km/h) underthe set speed when driving uphill.
The cruise controls are on the steeringwheel.
Switching Cruise Control On
Press and release the cruise control button.
The indicator appears in theinformation display.
Setting the Cruise Speed
1.Drive to desired speed.
2.Press and release SET+ or SET-.
3.Take your foot off the acceleratorpedal.
4.The indicator changes color in theinformation display.
Changing the Set Speed
•Press and release SET+ or SET-. Whenyou select km/h as the displaymeasurement in the informationdisplay the set speed changes inapproximately 1 km/h increments.When you select mph as the displaymeasurement in the informationdisplay the set speed changes inapproximately 1 mph increments.
•Press the accelerator or brake pedaluntil you reach the desired speed. Pressand release SET+ or SET-.
•Press and hold SET+ or SET-. Releasethe control when you reach the desiredspeed.
Note: If you accelerate by pressing theaccelerator pedal, the set speed will notchange. When you release the acceleratorpedal, your vehicle returns to the speed thatyou previously set.
Canceling the Set Speed
Press and release CAN or tap the brakepedal. The set speed does not erase.
Resuming the Set Speed
Press and release RES.
156EcoSport (CBW) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 14-08-2017, GN15-19G219-ZFB enUSA, First PrintingCruise Control (If Equipped)
Note:The system may not correctly operatewhen towing a trailer. For vehicles with atrailer tow module and tow bar approvedby us, the system turns off when you attacha trailer. For vehicles with an aftermarkettrailer tow module or tow bar, werecommend that you switch the system offwhen you attach a trailer.
To permanently switch the system off,contact an authorized dealer.
STEERING
Electric Power Steering
WARNINGS
The electric power steering systemhas diagnostic checks thatcontinuously monitor the system. Ifa fault is detected, a message displays inthe information display. Stop your vehicleas soon as it is safe to do so. Switch theignition off. After at least 10 seconds,switch the ignition on and watch theinformation display for a steering systemwarning message. If a steering systemwarning message returns, have the systemchecked as soon as possible.
If the system detects an error, youmay not feel a difference in thesteering, however a serious conditionmay exist. Have your vehicle checked assoon as possible, failure to do so mayresult in loss of steering control.
Note:Your vehicle is equipped with anelectric power-assisted steering system.There is no fluid reservoir to check or fill.
The electric power steering systemoperates by an electric motor, whichreduces the effort on the driver's steeringwheel.
The system operates progressively andduring maneuvers, the system leaves theeffort lighter. As the vehicle speedincreases, it reduces its action to improvethe control of the vehicle.
If your vehicle loses electrical power whileyou are driving (or if the ignition is turnedoff), you can steer the vehicle manually,but it takes more effort. Extremecontinuous steering may increase the effortit takes for you to steer. This occurs toprevent internal overheating andpermanent damage to your steeringsystem. If this should occur, you will notlose the ability to steer the vehiclemanually nor will it cause permanentdamage. Typical steering and drivingmaneuvers will allow the system to cooland steering assist will return to normal.
Steering Tips
Avoid sudden movements with the steeringwheel. The force required to change thevehicle direction is lower, compared to avehicle with mechanical steering.
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 crosswindsmay also make the steering seem towander or pull.
162EcoSport (CBW) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 14-08-2017, GN15-19G219-ZFB enUSA, First PrintingDriving Aids
Before Towing a Trailer
Practice turning, stopping and backing upto get the feel of your vehicle-trailercombination before starting on a trip.When turning, make wider turns so thetrailer wheels clear curbs and otherobstacles.
When Towing a Trailer
•Do not drive faster than 70 mph(113 km/h) during the first 500 mi(800 km).
•Do not make full-throttle starts.
•Check your hitch, electrical connectionsand trailer wheel lug nuts thoroughlyafter you have traveled 50 mi (80 km).
•When stopped in congested or heavytraffic during hot weather, place thegearshift in position P to aid engine andtransmission cooling and to help A/Cperformance.
•Turn off the speed control with heavyloads or in hilly terrain. The speedcontrol may turn off automaticallywhen you are towing on long, steepgrades.
•Shift to a lower gear when driving downa long or steep hill. Do not apply thebrakes continuously, as they mayoverheat and become less effective.
•If your transmission is equipped with aGrade Assist or Tow/Haul feature, usethis feature when towing. This providesengine braking and helps eliminateexcessive transmission shifting foroptimum fuel economy andtransmission cooling.
•Allow more distance for stopping witha trailer attached. Anticipate stops andbrake gradually.
•Avoid parking on a grade. However, ifyou must park on a grade:
1.Turn the steering wheel to point yourvehicle tires away from traffic flow.
2.Set your vehicle parking brake.
3.Place the automatic transmission inposition P.
4.Place wheel chocks in front and backof the trailer wheels. (Chocks notincluded with vehicle.)
Launching or Retrieving a Boat orPersonal Watercraft (PWC)
Note:Disconnect the wiring to the trailerbefore backing the trailer into the water.
Note:Reconnect the wiring to the trailerafter removing the trailer from the water.
When backing down a ramp during boatlaunching or retrieval:
•Do not allow the static water level torise above the bottom edge of the rearbumper.
•Do not allow waves to break higherthan 6 in (15 cm) above the bottomedge of the rear bumper.
Exceeding these limits may allow water toenter vehicle components:
•Causing internal damage to thecomponents.
•Affecting driveability, emissions, andreliability.
Replace the rear axle lubricant anytimethe rear axle has been submerged in water.Water may have contaminated the rearaxle lubricant, which is not normallychecked or changed unless a leak issuspected or other axle repair is required.
174EcoSport (CBW) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 14-08-2017, GN15-19G219-ZFB enUSA, First PrintingTowing
TRANSPORTING THE VEHICLE
If you need to have your vehicle towed,contact a professional towing service or,if you are a member of a roadsideassistance program, your roadsideassistance service provider.
We recommend towing your vehicle witha wheel lift and dollies or flatbedequipment. Do not tow with a slingbelt.Ford Motor Company has not approved aslingbelt towing procedure.
It is acceptable to tow a front-wheel drivevehicle from the front if using proper wheellift equipment to raise the front wheels offthe ground. When towing in this manner,the rear wheels can remain on the ground.
Front-wheel drive vehicles must have thefront wheels placed on a two-wheel towdolly when towing your vehicle from therear using wheel lift equipment. Thisprevents damage to the transmission.
Towing a four-wheel drive vehicle requiresthat all wheels be off the ground, such asusing a wheel lift and dollies or flatbedequipment. This prevents damage to thetransmission, four-wheel drive system andvehicle.
TOWING THE VEHICLE ON
FOUR WHEELS
Emergency Towing
If your vehicle becomes inoperable(without access to wheel dollies,car-hauling trailer, or flatbed transportvehicle), it can be flat-towed (all wheelson the ground, regardless of the powertrainand transmission configuration) under thefollowing conditions:
•Your vehicle is facing forward fortowing in a forward direction.
•Place the transmission in position N. Ifyou cannot move the transmission intoN, you may need to override it. SeeTransmission (page 138).
•Maximum speed is 35 mph (56 km/h).
•Maximum distance is 50 mi (80 km).
WARNING
If your vehicle has a steering wheellock make sure the ignition is in theaccessory or on position when beingtowed.
Recreational Towing
Note:Put your climate control system inrecirculated air mode to prevent exhaustfumes from entering the vehicle. SeeClimate Control (page 98).
176EcoSport (CBW) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 14-08-2017, GN15-19G219-ZFB enUSA, First PrintingTowing