2018 FORD FLEX power steering fluid

Roadside Emergencies
Roadside Assistance
..................................221
Hazard Flashers ...........................................
222
Fuel Shutoff ..................................................
222
Jump Starting the Vehicle ........................
223
Post-Crash Alert System .........................
225
Transporting the Vehicle ..........................
225
Customer Assistance
Getting the Services You Need ..............
227
In California (U.S. Only) ............................
228
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) Auto Line Program (U.S. Only) .....................
229
Utilizing the Mediation/Arbitration Program (Canada Only) ......................
230
Getting Assistance Outside the U.S. and Canada .......................................................
230
Ordering Additional Owner's Literature ........................................................................\
232
Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only) ........................................................................\
232
Reporting Safety Defects (Canada Only) ........................................................................\
232
Fuses
Fuse Specification Chart .........................
234
Changing a Fuse ..........................................
243
Maintenance
General Information ..................................
245
Opening and Closing the Hood .............
245
Under Hood Overview - 3.5L Duratec ........................................................................\
246
Under Hood Overview - 3.5L Ecoboost™ ........................................................................\
247
Engine Oil Dipstick .....................................
249
Engine Oil Check .........................................
249
Oil Change Indicator Reset .....................
250
Engine Coolant Check ..............................
250
Automatic Transmission Fluid Check ........................................................................\
254 Brake Fluid Check
.......................................
256
Power Steering Fluid Check ....................
257
Washer Fluid Check ....................................
257
Changing the 12V Battery .........................
257
Checking the Wiper Blades ....................
259
Changing the Wiper Blades ....................
259
Adjusting the Headlamps .......................
260
Removing a Headlamp ..............................
261
Changing a Bulb ...........................................
261
Bulb Specification Chart .........................
265
Changing the Engine Air Filter ................
267
Vehicle Care
General Information ..................................
268
Cleaning Products ......................................
268
Cleaning the Exterior .................................
268
Waxing ............................................................
270
Cleaning the Engine ...................................
270
Cleaning the Windows and Wiper Blades ........................................................................\
270
Cleaning the Interior ....................................
271
Cleaning the Instrument Panel and Instrument Cluster Lens ........................
271
Cleaning Leather Seats .............................
272
Repairing Minor Paint Damage ..............
273
Cleaning the Wheels ..................................
273
Vehicle Storage ............................................
273
Body Styling Kits .........................................
275
Wheels and Tires
General Information ..................................
276
Tire Care .........................................................
278
Using Snow Chains ....................................
292
Tire Pressure Monitoring System ..........
293
Changing a Road Wheel ..........................
296
Technical Specifications .........................
300
4
Flex (TP3) , enUSA, Edition date: 201801, Second Printing Table of Contents

Note operating instructions
Horn control
Panic alarm
Parking aid
Parking brake
Power steering fluid
Power windows front/rear
Power window lockout
Requires registered technician
Safety alert
See Owner's Manual
See Service Manual
Service engine soon
Passenger airbag activated
Passenger airbag deactivated Side airbag
Shield the eyes
Stability control
Windshield wiping system
Windshield wash and wipe
DATA RECORDING
Service Data Recording
Service data recorders in your vehicle are
capable of collecting and storing
diagnostic information about your vehicle.
This potentially includes information about
the performance or status of various
systems and modules in the vehicle, such
as engine, throttle, steering or brake
systems. In order to properly diagnose and
service your vehicle, Ford Motor Company
(Ford of Canada in Canada), and service
and repair facilities may access or share
among them vehicle diagnostic
information received through a direct
connection to your vehicle when
diagnosing or servicing your vehicle.
Additionally, Ford Motor Company (Ford
of Canada, in Canada) may, where
permitted by law, use vehicle diagnostic
information for vehicle improvement or
with other information we may have about
you, (for example, your contact
information), to offer you products or
services that may interest you. Data may
be provided to our service providers such
as part suppliers that may help diagnose
malfunctions, and who are similarly
obligated to protect data. We retain this
9
Flex (TP3) , enUSA, Edition date: 201801, Second Printing Introduction E270945 E139213 E231159 E231158 E270849 E270850 E167012 E138639 E270969

GENERAL INFORMATION
Note:
Occasional brake noise is normal. If
a metal-to-metal, continuous grinding or
continuous squeal sound is present, the
brake linings may be worn-out. Have the
system checked by an authorized dealer. If
your vehicle has continuous vibration or
shudder in the steering wheel while braking,
have it checked by an authorized dealer.
Note: Brake dust may accumulate on the
wheels, even under normal driving
conditions. Some dust is inevitable as the
brakes wear and does not contribute to
brake noise. See Cleaning the Wheels
(page 273).
Note: Depending on applicable laws and
regulations in the country for which your
vehicle was originally built, your brake lamps
may flash during heavy braking. Following
this, your hazard lights may also flash when
your vehicle comes to a stop. See
Warning Lamps and
Indicators (page 93).
Wet brakes result in reduced braking
efficiency. Gently press the brake pedal a
few times when driving from a car wash or
standing water to dry the brakes.
Brake Over Accelerator
In the event the accelerator pedal
becomes stuck or entrapped, apply steady
and firm pressure to the brake pedal to
slow the vehicle and reduce engine power.
If you experience this condition, apply the
brakes and bring your vehicle to a safe
stop. Move the transmission to park (P),
switch the engine off and apply the parking
brake. Inspect the accelerator pedal for
any interference. If none are found and the
condition persists, have your vehicle towed
to the nearest authorized dealer. Brake Assist
Brake assist detects when you brake
rapidly by measuring the rate at which you
press the brake pedal. It provides
maximum braking efficiency as long as you
press the pedal, and can reduce stopping
distances in critical situations.
Anti-lock Brake System
This system helps you maintain steering
control during emergency stops by keeping
the brakes from locking.
If it illuminates when you are
driving, this indicates a
malfunction. Your vehicle
continues to have normal braking without
the anti-lock brake system function. Have
your vehicle checked as soon as possible.
It also momentarily illuminates when you
switch the ignition on to confirm the lamp
is functional. If it does not illuminate when
you switch the ignition on, or begins to
flash at any time, have the system checked
by an authorized dealer. It illuminates when you engage
the parking brake and the
ignition is on.
If it illuminates when your vehicle is
moving, make sure the parking brake is
disengaged. If the parking brake is
disengaged, this indicates low brake fluid
level or a brake system fault. Have your
vehicle immediately checked.
It also momentarily illuminates when you
switch the ignition on to confirm the lamp
is functional. If it does not illuminate when
you switch the ignition on, or begins to
flash at any time, have the system checked
by an authorized dealer.
175
Flex (TP3) , enUSA, Edition date: 201801, Second Printing BrakesE144522 E144522

STEERING
Electric Power Steering
WARNINGS
The electric power steering system
has diagnostic checks that
continuously monitor the system. If
a fault is detected, a message displays in
the information display. Stop your vehicle
as soon as it is safe to do so. Switch the
ignition off. After at least 10 seconds,
switch the ignition on and watch the
information display for a steering system
warning message. If a steering system
warning message returns, have the system
checked by an authorized dealer. If the system detects an error, you
may not feel a difference in the
steering, however a serious condition
may exist. Obtain immediate service from
an authorized dealer, failure to do so may
result in loss of steering control. Your vehicle has an electric power steering
system. There is no fluid reservoir. No
maintenance is required.
If your vehicle loses electrical power while
you are driving, electric power steering
assistance is lost. The steering system still
operates and you can steer your vehicle
manually. Manually steering your vehicle
requires more effort.
Extreme continuous steering may increase
the effort required for you to steer your
vehicle. This increased effort prevents
overheating and permanent damage to
the steering system. You do not lose the
ability to steer your vehicle manually.
Typical steering and driving maneuvers
allow the system to cool and return to
normal operation. Steering Tips
If the steering wanders or pulls, check for:
•
Correct tire pressures.
• Uneven tire wear.
• Loose or worn suspension
components.
• Loose or worn steering components.
• Improper vehicle alignment.
Note: A high crown in the road or high
crosswinds may also make the steering
seem to wander or pull.
Adaptive Learning
The electronic power steering system
adaptive learning helps correct road
irregularities and improves overall handling
and steering feel. It communicates with
the brake system to help operate
advanced stability control and accident
avoidance systems. Additionally, whenever
the battery is disconnected or a new
battery installed, you must drive your
vehicle a short distance before the system
relearns the strategy and reactivates all
systems.
COLLISION WARNING SYSTEM
(If Equipped)
PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION WARNINGS
This system is designed to be a
supplementary driving aid. It is not
intended to replace the driver
’s
attention, and judgment, or the need to
apply the brakes. This system does NOT
activate the brakes automatically. Failure
to press the brake pedal to activate the
brakes may result in a collision.
201
Flex (TP3) , enUSA, Edition date: 201801, Second Printing Driving Aids

To avoid fluid contamination, the reservoir
cap must remain in place and fully tight,
unless you are adding fluid.
Only use fluid that meets Ford
specifications. See Capacities and
Specifications (page 302).
POWER STEERING FLUID
CHECK
Your vehicle is equipped with an electric
power steering (EPS) system. There is no
fluid reservoir to check or fill.
WASHER FLUID CHECK WARNING
If you operate your vehicle in
temperatures below
41.0°F (5°C),
use washer fluid with antifreeze
protection. Failure to use washer fluid with
antifreeze protection in cold weather could
result in impaired windshield vision and
increase the risk of injury or accident. Note:
The front and rear washer systems
are supplied from the same reservoir.
Add fluid to fill the reservoir if the level is
low. Only use a washer fluid that meets
Ford specifications. See
Capacities and
Specifications (page 302).
State or local regulations on volatile
organic compounds may restrict the use
of methanol, a common windshield washer
antifreeze additive. Washer fluids
containing non-methanol antifreeze
agents should be used only if they provide
cold weather protection without damaging
the vehicle ’s paint finish, wiper blades or
washer system.
CHANGING THE 12V BATTERY WARNINGS
Batteries normally produce explosive
gases which can cause personal
injury. Therefore, do not allow
flames, sparks or lighted substances to
come near the battery. When working near
the battery, always shield your face and
protect your eyes. Always provide correct
ventilation. When lifting a plastic-cased battery,
excessive pressure on the end walls
could cause acid to flow through the
vent caps, resulting in personal injury and
damage to the vehicle or battery. Lift the
battery with a battery carrier or with your
hands on opposite corners. Keep batteries out of reach of
children. Batteries contain sulfuric
acid. Avoid contact with skin, eyes or
clothing. Shield your eyes when working
near the battery to protect against possible
splashing of acid solution. In case of acid
contact with skin or eyes, flush
immediately with water for a minimum of
15 minutes and get prompt medical
attention. If acid is swallowed, call a
physician immediately.
257
Flex (TP3) , enUSA, Edition date: 201801, Second Printing MaintenanceE170684

A
A/C
See: Climate Control.......................................... 114
About This Manual...........................................7
ABS See: Brakes............................................................ 175
ABS driving hints See: Hints on Driving With Anti-Lock
Brakes................................................................. 176
Accessories....................................................443 Exterior Style....................................................... 443
Interior Style........................................................ 443
Lifestyle................................................................. 443
Peace of Mind..................................................... 443
Accessories See: Replacement Parts
Recommendation............................................ 12
ACC See: Using Adaptive Cruise Control............190
Active Park Assist..........................................181 Automatic Steering into Parking
Space................................................................. 183
Deactivating the Park Assist Feature..........184
Troubleshooting the System.......................... 184
Using Active Park Assist................................... 182
Adjusting the Headlamps........................260 Horizontal Aim Adjustment............................ 261
Vertical Aim......................................................... 260
Adjusting the Pedals.....................................79
Adjusting the Steering Wheel - Vehicles With: Manual Adjustable Steering
Column............................................................76
Adjusting the Steering Wheel - Vehicles With: Power Adjustable Steering
Column............................................................75
End of Travel Position......................................... 75
Airbag Disposal................................................51
Air Conditioning See: Climate Control.......................................... 114
Air Filter See: Changing the Engine Air Filter.............267
Alarm See: Anti-Theft Alarm......................................... 74
All-Wheel Drive.............................................168
Ambient Lighting
...........................................86
Anti-Theft Alarm............................................74
Arming the Alarm................................................. 74Disarming the Alarm...........................................
74
Appendices....................................................465
Apps...................................................................412 ........................................................................\
........... 412
SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link.................... 414
At a Glance........................................................16
Audible Warnings and Indicators.............96 Headlamps On Warning Chime..................... 96
Key in Ignition Warning Chime........................ 96
Keyless Warning Alert........................................ 96
Parking Brake On Warning Chime.................96
Audio Control
...................................................76
MEDIA....................................................................... 76
Seek, Next or Previous......................................... 77
Audio System.................................................317 General Information........................................... 317
Audio Unit - Vehicles With: AM/FM/CD/ SYNC/Satellite Radio
..............................318
Menu Structure.................................................. 320
Audio Unit - Vehicles With: Premium AM/FM/CD..................................................323
Audio Unit - Vehicles With: Sony AM/ FM/CD...........................................................324
Autolamps
........................................................83
Windshield Wiper Activated
Headlamps........................................................ 83
Automatic Climate Control - Vehicles With: Premium AM/FM/CD....................115
Automatic Climate Control - Vehicles With: Sony Audio System........................116
Automatic Transmission
...........................164
Automatic Transmission Adaptive
Learning............................................................. 167
Brake-Shift Interlock......................................... 166
If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck In Mud or Snow................................................................... 167
SelectShift Automatic ™
Transmission................................................... 164
Understanding the Positions of Your Automatic Transmission............................ 164
Automatic Transmission Fluid Check
............................................................254
Adding Transmission Fluid ............................ 255
Checking the Transmission Fluid Level................................................................... 255
Autowipers.......................................................80
Auxiliary Power Points................................143 110 Volt AC Power Point................................... 143
495
Flex (TP3) , enUSA, Edition date: 201801, Second Printing Index

Opening the Hood.............................................
245
Ordering Additional Owner's Literature......................................................232
Obtaining a French Owner ’s Manual..........232
Overhead Console.......................................146
P
Parking Aids...................................................180
Principle of Operation...................................... 180
Parking Brake..................................................176
Passive Anti-Theft System.........................73 SecuriLock®........................................................... 73
PATS See: Passive Anti-Theft System..................... 73
Pedals.................................................................79
Perchlorate.........................................................11
Personal Safety System ™
..........................43
How Does the Personal Safety System
Work?.................................................................. 43
Phone
..............................................................399
During a Phone Call.......................................... 402
Making Calls......................................................... 401
Pairing Your Cell Phone for the First Time.................................................................. 399
Phone Menu....................................................... 400
Receiving Calls................................................... 402
Smartphone Connectivity............................. 403
Text Messaging.................................................. 403
Post-Crash Alert System..........................225
Power Door Locks See: Locking and Unlocking............................. 63
Power Liftgate.................................................70 Obstacle Detection............................................... 71
Opening and Closing the Liftgate.................. 70
Stopping the Liftgate Movement.................... 71
Power Seats....................................................126 Power Lumbar..................................................... 128
Power Steering Fluid Check.....................257
Power Windows
..............................................87
Accessory Delay.................................................... 87
Bounce-Back......................................................... 87
One-Touch Down................................................. 87
One-Touch Up....................................................... 87
Window Lock......................................................... 87
Protecting the Environment........................15
Puncture See: Changing a Road Wheel....................... 296R
Rear Parking Aid...........................................180
Rear Passenger Climate Controls..........120
Rear Seats
.......................................................129
Adjusting the Rear Seats................................. 129
Rear View Camera
.......................................185
Using the Rear View Camera System.........186
Rear View Camera See: Rear View Camera.................................... 185
Rear Window Wiper and Washers............81 Rear Camera Washer........................................... 81
Rear Window Washer.......................................... 81
Rear Window Wiper Blade................................ 81
Recommended Towing Weights
..............211
Refueling..........................................................156 Refueling System Overview........................... 156
Refueling System Warning............................. 158
Refueling Your Vehicle...................................... 156
Remote Control..............................................53 Car Finder................................................................ 55
Integrated Keyhead Transmitter..................... 53
Intelligent Access Key......................................... 53
Memory Feature................................................... 56
Remote Start......................................................... 55
Replacing the Battery......................................... 54
Sounding the Panic Alarm................................ 55
Remote Start
..................................................122
Automatic Settings............................................ 122
Removing a Headlamp...............................261
Repairing Minor Paint Damage...............273
Replacement Parts Recommendation........................................12
Collision Repairs.................................................... 12
Scheduled Maintenance and Mechanical Repairs.................................................................. 12
Warranty on Replacement Parts..................... 12
Replacing a Lost Key or Remote Control............................................................56
Reporting Safety Defects (Canada Only)
..............................................................232
Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only)
..............................................................232
Roadside Assistance...................................221
Vehicles Sold in Canada: Getting Roadside
Assistance........................................................ 222
Vehicles Sold in Canada: Roadside Assistance Program Coverage.................222
501
Flex (TP3) , enUSA, Edition date: 201801, Second Printing Index