2018 FORD FLEX trailer

Note:
Driving your vehicle without repair
increases the chance of engine damage.
Engine Coolant Temperature
Management (If Equipped) WARNING
To reduce the risk of crash and injury,
be prepared that the vehicle speed
may reduce and the vehicle may not
be able to accelerate with full power until
the coolant temperature reduces. If you tow a trailer with your vehicle, the
engine may temporarily reach a higher
temperature during severe operating
conditions, for example ascending a long
or steep grade in high ambient
temperatures.
At this time, you may notice the coolant
temperature gauge moves toward the red
zone and a message may appear in the
information display.
You may notice a reduction in vehicle
speed caused by reduced engine power in
order to manage the engine coolant
temperature. Your vehicle may enter this
mode if certain high-temperature and
high-load conditions take place. The
amount of speed reduction depends on
vehicle loading, grade and ambient
temperature. If this occurs, there is no
need to stop your vehicle. You can
continue to drive.
The air conditioning may automatically
turn on and off during severe operating
conditions to protect the engine from
overheating. When the coolant
temperature decreases to the normal
operating temperature, the air conditioning
turns on. If the coolant temperature gauge moves
fully into the red zone, or if the coolant
temperature warning or service engine
soon messages appear in your information
display, do the following:
1. Stop your vehicle as soon as it is safe
to do so. Fully apply the parking brake,
shift into park (P) or neutral (N).
2. Leave the engine running until the coolant temperature gauge needle
returns to the normal position. After
several minutes, if the temperature
does not drop, follow the remaining
steps.
3. Switch the engine off and wait for it to
cool. Check the coolant level.
4. If the coolant level is at or below the minimum mark, add prediluted coolant
immediately.
5. If the coolant level is normal, restart the engine and continue.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID CHECK
Do not use supplemental transmission
fluid additives because they are
unnecessary and could lead to
transmission damage that may not be
covered by the vehicle Warranty.
The transmission does not consume fluid.
However, if the transmission slips or shifts
slowly you should check the fluid level. If
you notice a sign of leaking fluid, contact
an authorized dealer.
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Checking the Transmission Fluid
Level
WARNING
The dipstick and surrounding
components are hot. Use gloves
when moving components and
checking the transmission fluid level.
Failure to follow this warning could result
in serious personal injury. Only check the transmission fluid level
when the engine is at normal operating
temperature 179°F (82°C)-199°F (93°C).
Normal operating temperature is reached
after driving approximately 20 mi (30 km).
Minimum.
A
Maximum.
B
Note: Check the fluid level with the engine
running and the transmission in park (P).
1. Make sure that your vehicle is on level ground.
2. Rotate the automatic transmission fluid cap in a counterclockwise
direction. See Under Hood Overview
(page 247).
3. Remove the cap and dipstick and wipe
it with a clean, lint-free cloth. Replace
the cap and dipstick and remove it
again to check the fluid level. 4. Make sure that the fluid level is
between the MIN and the MAX marks.
If the fluid level is at the MIN mark, add
fluid immediately. See
Adding
Transmission Fluid.
5. Replace the automatic transmission fluid cap and dipstick. Turn it clockwise
until you feel a strong resistance.
Low Fluid Level
If the fluid level is within the minimum
range (below point A) add the correct
specification fluid to be within the hash
mark area. See
Capacities and
Specifications (page 308).
Note: If the fluid level is below the
minimum range do not drive your vehicle. A
low fluid level can damage the transmission.
Correct Fluid Level
If the fluid level is within the hash mark
area (between points A and B) do not add
any fluid.
High Fluid Level
If the fluid level is above the maximum
range (above point B) fluid may need to
be removed. High fluid levels may be
caused by a overheating condition. If you
have operated your vehicle at high speeds,
towing a trailer or in city traffic during hot
weather, allow your vehicle to cool for a
minimum of 30 minutes before rechecking
the level.
Note: An overfill condition can damage the
transmission.
Adding Transmission Fluid *
1. Rotate the automatic transmission fluid cap in a counterclockwise
direction.
2. Remove the cap and dipstick and wipe
it with a clean, lint-free cloth.
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AB

1.
T-type mini-spare: This spare tire
begins with the letter T for tire size and
may have Temporary Use Only molded in
the sidewall.
2. Full-size dissimilar spare with label
on wheel:
This spare tire has a label on
the wheel that states: THIS WHEEL AND
TIRE ASSEMBLY FOR TEMPORARY USE
ONLY.
When driving with one of the dissimilar
spare tires listed above, do not:
• Exceed
50 mph (80 km/h).
• Load the vehicle beyond maximum
vehicle load rating listed on the Safety
Compliance Label.
• Tow a trailer.
• Use snow chains on the end of the
vehicle with the dissimilar spare tire.
• Use more than one dissimilar spare tire
at a time.
• Use commercial car washing
equipment.
• Try to repair the dissimilar spare tire.
Use of one of the dissimilar spare tires
listed above at any one wheel location can
lead to impairment of the following:
• Handling, stability and braking
performance.
• Comfort and noise.
• Ground clearance and parking at curbs.
• Winter weather driving capability.
• Wet weather driving capability.
• All-wheel driving capability.
3. Full-size dissimilar spare without
label on wheel
When driving with the full-size dissimilar
spare wheel and tire assembly, do not:
• Exceed
70 mph (113 km/h).
• Use more than one dissimilar spare
wheel and tire assembly at a time. •
Use commercial car washing
equipment.
• Use snow chains on the end of the
vehicle with the dissimilar spare wheel
and tire assembly.
The usage of a full-size dissimilar spare
wheel and tire assembly can lead to
impairment of the following:
• Handling, stability and braking
performance.
• Comfort and noise.
• Ground clearance and parking at curbs.
• Winter weather driving capability.
• Wet weather driving capability.
• All-wheel driving capability.
When driving with the full-size dissimilar
spare wheel and tire assembly additional
caution should be given to:
• Towing a trailer.
• Driving vehicles equipped with a
camper body.
• Driving vehicles with a load on the
cargo rack.
Drive cautiously when using a full-size
dissimilar spare wheel and tire assembly
and seek service as soon as possible.
Tire Change Procedure WARNINGS
When one of the front wheels is off
the ground, the transmission alone
will not prevent your vehicle from
moving or slipping off the jack, even if the
transmission is in park (P) or neutral (N). To help prevent your vehicle from
moving when you change a tire, be
sure to place the transmission in park
(P) or neutral (N), set the parking brake,
and block (in both directions) the wheel
that is diagonally opposite (other side and
end of your vehicle) to the tire being
changed.
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For a complete listing of the accessories
that are available for your vehicle, please
contact your authorized dealer or visit the
online store web site:
Web Address (United States)
www.Accessories.Ford.com Web Address (Canada)
www.Accessories.Ford.ca
Ford Accessories are available for your
vehicle through an authorized Ford dealer.
Ford Motor Company will repair or replace
any properly authorized dealer-installed
Ford Original Accessory found to be
defective in factory-supplied materials or
workmanship during the warranty period,
as well as any component damaged by the
defective accessories.
Ford Motor Company will warrant your
Ford Original Accessory through the
warranty that provides the greatest
benefit:
• 24 months, unlimited mileage.
• The remainder of your new vehicle
limited warranty.
Contact an authorized dealer for details
and a copy of the warranty.
Exterior Style
• Hood deflectors.
• Side-window deflectors*.
• Splash guards.
• Spoiler.
Interior Style
• Ambient lighting.
• Door sill plates with logo.
• Floor mats. •
Illuminated door sill plate.
• Rear seat entertainment*.
Lifestyle
• Ash cup or coin holder.
• Camping tent*.
• Cargo area protector.
• Cargo net.
• Cargo organization and management.
• Conversation mirror.
• Roof racks and carriers*.
• Roof rails.
• Seat covers*.
• Trailer hitches, wiring harnesses and
accessories.
• Tablet cradle.
Peace of Mind
• Full vehicle covers*.
• Locking fuel plug.
• Remote start.
• Roadside assistance kits*.
• Vehicle security systems.
• Wheel locks.
*Ford Licensed Accessories. The accessory
manufacturer designs, develops and
therefore warrants Ford Licensed
Accessories, and does not design or test
these accessories to Ford Motor Company
engineering requirements. Contact an
authorized Ford dealer for the
manufacturer's limited warranty details
and request a copy of the Ford Licensed
Accessories product limited warranty from
the accessory manufacturer.
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SPECIAL OPERATING
CONDITIONS SCHEDULED
MAINTENANCE
If you operate your vehicle primarily in any
of the following conditions, you need to perform extra maintenance as indicated.
If you operate your vehicle
occasionally
under any of these conditions, it is not
necessary to perform the extra
maintenance. For specific
recommendations, see your dealership
service advisor or technician. Towing a trailer or using a car-top carrier
Change engine oil and filter as indicated by the information
display and perform services listed in the Normal Sched-
uled Maintenance chart.
As required
Inspect rear axle and U-joints (AWD only).
Inspect frequently, service
as required
Inspect half-shaft boots.
See axle maintenance items under
Exceptions.
Change automatic transmission fluid.
30,000 mi (48,000 km)
Replace spark plugs.
60,000 mi (96,000 km) Extensive idling or low-speed driving for long distances, as in heavy commercial use
Change engine oil and filter as indicated by the information
display and perform services listed in the Normal Sched-
uled Maintenance chart.
As required
Replace cabin air filter.
Inspect frequently, service
as required
Replace engine air filter.
Change automatic transmission fluid.
30,000 mi (48,000 km)
Replace spark plugs.
60,000 mi (96,000 km) Extended Hot and Cold climate operation
Change engine oil and filter. *
5,000 mi (8,000 km)
* Hot Climates only
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Supported Media Players, Formats and
Metadata Information................................ 395
USB Ports............................................................. 395
Environment......................................................15
Essential Towing Checks...........................213 Before Towing a Trailer..................................... 215
Hitches.................................................................... 214
Launching or Retrieving a Boat or Personal Watercraft (PWC)......................................... 216
Safety Chains....................................................... 214
Trailer Brake Controller Connector...............214
Trailer Brakes........................................................ 214
Trailer Lamps........................................................ 215
Trailer Towing Connector (Vehicles with a Trailer Towing Package and 7 –Pin
Connector)....................................................... 213
When Towing a Trailer...................................... 215
Event Data Recording See: Data Recording.............................................. 9
Export Unique Options..................................13
Exterior Mirrors
................................................88
Blind Spot Information System...................... 89
Direction Indicator Mirrors................................ 89
Fold-Away Exterior Mirrors............................... 88
Heated Exterior Mirrors ..................................... 89
Integrated Blind Spot Mirror............................ 89
Memory Mirrors .................................................... 89
Power Exterior Mirrors........................................ 88
Power-Folding Mirrors....................................... 88
Puddle Lamps....................................................... 89
F
Fastening the Seatbelts...............................35 Rear Inflatable Seatbelt..................................... 37
Seatbelt Locking Modes.................................... 36
Using Seatbelts During Pregnancy................35
Flat Tire See: Changing a Road Wheel....................... 296
Floor Mats
........................................................219
Fog Lamps - Front See: Front Fog Lamps........................................ 85
Foot Pedals See: Adjusting the Pedals................................. 79
Ford Credit
..........................................................11
US Only...................................................................... 11Ford Protect...................................................445
Ford Protect Extended Service Plan
(CANADA ONLY).......................................... 446
Ford Protect Extended Service Plans (U.S. Only).................................................................. 445
Front Fog Lamps
............................................85
Front Passenger Sensing System............46
Fuel and Refueling.......................................153
Fuel Consumption
.......................................158
Advertised Capacity.......................................... 158
Fuel Economy...................................................... 158
Fuel Filler Funnel Location........................154
Fuel Quality
.....................................................153
Choosing the Right Fuel................................... 153
Fuel Shutoff
...................................................222
Fuses................................................................234
Fuse Specification Chart..........................234 Passenger Compartment Fuse
Panel.................................................................. 239
Power Distribution Box.................................... 234
G
Garage Door Opener See: Universal Garage Door Opener...........138
Gauges...............................................................92
Gearbox See: Transmission.............................................. 164
General Information on Radio Frequencies...................................................52
Intelligent Access................................................. 52
General Maintenance Information
........447
Multi-Point Inspection..................................... 449
Owner Checks and Services......................... 448
Protecting Your Investment........................... 447
Why Maintain Your Vehicle?.......................... 447
Why Maintain Your Vehicle at Your Dealership?..................................................... 447
Getting Assistance Outside the U.S. and Canada.........................................................230
Getting the Services You Need...............227 Away From Home.............................................. 227
H
Handbrake See: Parking Brake.............................................. 176
Hazard Flashers
............................................222
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L
Liftgate...............................................................69
Lighting Control..............................................82
Flashing the Headlamp High Beam..............83
Headlamp High Beam........................................ 82
Lighting..............................................................82
General Information............................................ 82
Load Carriers See: Roof Racks and Load Carriers............204
Load Carrying
................................................204
Load Limit......................................................204 Special Loading Instructions for Owners of
Pick-up Trucks and Utility-type
Vehicles............................................................ 209
Vehicle Loading - with and without a Trailer................................................................ 204
Locking and Unlocking.................................63 Activating Intelligent Access........................... 64
Autolock.................................................................. 65
Autounlock ............................................................ 65
Battery Saver......................................................... 66
Enabling or Disabling Autounlock.................65
Illuminated Entry.................................................. 66
Illuminated Exit..................................................... 66
Locking and Unlocking the Doors with the Key Blade............................................................ 63
Opening a Rear Door From the Inside..........64
Power Door Locks................................................ 63
Remote Control.................................................... 63
Smart Unlocks for Integrated Keyhead Transmitter........................................................ 64
Smart Unlocks for Intelligent Access Keys...................................................................... 65
Lug Nuts See: Changing a Road Wheel....................... 296
M
Maintenance..................................................245 General Information......................................... 245
Manual Climate Control
..............................114
Manual Liftgate..............................................69
Closing the Liftgate............................................. 69
Opening the Liftgate........................................... 69
Manual Seats
.................................................126
Lumbar Adjustment.......................................... 126Moving the Seat Backward and
Forward............................................................. 126
Recline Adjustment........................................... 126
Memory Function
.........................................128
Easy Entry and Exit Feature............................ 129
Linking a PreSet Position to your Remote Control or Intelligent Access Key Fob
........................................................................\
...... 129
Saving a PreSet Position................................. 128
Message Center See: Information Displays................................. 97
Mirrors See: Heated Windows and Mirrors................121
See: Windows and Mirrors................................ 87
Mobile Communications Equipment.......13
Moonroof..........................................................90 Bounce-Back.......................................................... 91
Opening and Closing the Moonroof...............91
Venting the Moonroof......................................... 91
Motorcraft Parts - 3.5L Duratec.............303
Motorcraft Parts - 3.5L Ecoboost™.................................................305
MyKey Troubleshooting
................................61
MyKey ™.............................................................57
Principle of Operation......................................... 57
N
Navigation.....................................................404 cityseeker................................................................ 411
Destination Mode............................................. 406
Map Mode............................................................ 404
Navigation Map Updates................................. 412
Navigation Menu............................................... 409
SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link.................... 412
SYNC AppLink...................................................... 411
Waypoints............................................................. 410
Normal Scheduled Maintenance..........450 Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor™........................ 450
Normal Maintenance Intervals...................... 451
O
Oil Change Indicator Reset......................250
Oil Check See: Engine Oil Check...................................... 249
Opening and Closing the Hood..............245 Closing the Hood............................................... 246
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SYNC™ 3 Troubleshooting.....................430
SYNC™ Applications and
Services........................................................344
911 Assist............................................................... 344
SYNC™ AppLink ™.....................................346
SYNC Mobile Apps............................................ 346
SYNC™............................................................326 General Information......................................... 326
SYNC™ Troubleshooting
..........................357
T
Technical Specifications See: Capacities and Specifications............302
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) Auto Line Program (U.S. Only)
.......................229
Tire Care..........................................................278 Glossary of Tire Terminology........................ 280
Information About Uniform Tire Quality Grading .............................................................. 278
Information Contained on the Tire Sidewall............................................................. 281
Temperature A B C............................................ 279
Traction AA A B C............................................... 279
Treadwear............................................................. 279
Tire Pressure Monitoring System...........293 Changing Tires With a Tire Pressure
Monitoring System....................................... 294
Understanding Your Tire Pressure Monitoring System ...................................... 294
Tires See: Wheels and Tires...................................... 276
Towing a Trailer.............................................210 Load Placement................................................. 210
Towing the Vehicle on Four Wheels...........................................................216
Emergency Towing............................................. 216
Recreational Towing.......................................... 216
Towing..............................................................210
Traction Control
.............................................177
Principle of Operation........................................ 177
Trailer Sway Control......................................211
Transmission Code Designation
............307
Transmission..................................................164
Transporting the Vehicle...........................225 U
Under Hood Overview - 3.5L
Duratec.........................................................246
Under Hood Overview - 3.5L Ecoboost™..................................................247
Universal Garage Door Opener...............138 HomeLink Wireless Control System...........138
USB Port..........................................................325
Using Adaptive Cruise Control................190 Automatic Cancellation................................... 193
Blocked Sensor................................................... 194
Canceling the Set Speed................................. 193
Changing the Set Speed.................................. 193
Detection Issues.................................................. 193
Following a Vehicle............................................. 191
Hilly Condition Usage........................................ 193
Overriding the Set Speed................................ 192
Resuming the Set Speed................................. 193
Setting the Adaptive Cruise Speed..............191
Setting the Gap Distance................................ 192
Switching Adaptive Cruise Control Off....................................................................... 193
Switching Adaptive Cruise Control On........................................................................\
190
Switching to Normal Cruise Control............195
System Not Available....................................... 194
Using All-Wheel Drive................................168 Driving In Special Conditions With
All-Wheel Drive (AWD)............................... 170
Operating AWD Vehicles With Mismatched Tires.................................................................... 169
Operating AWD Vehicles With Spare Tires.................................................................... 169
Using Cruise Control...................................189 Switching Cruise Control Off......................... 189
Switching Cruise Control On.......................... 189
Using MyKey With Remote Start Systems...........................................................61
Using Snow Chains
.....................................292
Using Stability Control................................179
Using SYNC™ With Your Media Player.............................................................347
Accessing Your Play Menu.............................. 352
Connecting Your Digital Media Player to the USB Port........................................................... 347
Media Menu Features...................................... 350
Media Voice Commands................................ 349
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