steering, acceleration or braking whichcould result in an increased risk of lossof vehicle control, vehicle rollover and/orpersonal injury. Use all available roadsurface to return the vehicle to a safedirection of travel.
•In the event of an emergency stop, avoidskidding the tires and do not attempt anysharp steering wheel movements.
•If the vehicle goes from one type ofsurface to another (i.e., from concrete togravel) there will be a change in the waythe vehicle responds to a maneuver(steering, acceleration or braking). Again,avoid these abrupt inputs.
Sand
When driving over sand, try to keep all fourwheels on the most solid area of the trail.Avoid reducing the tire pressures but shiftto a lower gear and drive steadily throughthe terrain. Apply the accelerator slowly andavoid spinning the wheels.
Do not drive your AWD vehicle in deep sand.This will cause the AWD system to overheat.After the system has cooled down, normalAWD function will return.
Under severe operating conditions, the A/Cmay cycle on and off to protect overheatingof the engine.
Avoid excessive speed because vehiclemomentum can work against you and causethe vehicle to become stuck to the point thatassistance may be required from anothervehicle. Remember, you may be able to backout the way you came if you proceed withcaution.
Mud and Water
If you must drive through high water, driveslowly. Traction or brake capability may belimited.
When driving through water, determine thedepth; avoid water higher than the bottomof the wheel rims (for cars) or the bottom ofthe hubs (for trucks) (if possible) and proceedslowly. If the ignition system gets wet, thevehicle may stall.
Once through water, always try the brakes.Wet brakes do not stop the vehicle aseffectively as dry brakes. Drying can beimproved by moving your vehicle slowlywhile applying light pressure on the brakepedal.
Be cautious of sudden changes in vehiclespeed or direction when you are driving inmud. Even AWD vehicles can lose tractionin slick mud. As when you are driving oversand, apply the accelerator slowly and avoidspinning your wheels. If the vehicle doesslide, steer in the direction of the slide untilyou regain control of the vehicle.
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After driving through mud, clean off residuestuck to rotating driveshafts and tires. Excessmud stuck on tires and rotating driveshaftscauses an imbalance that could damagedrive components.
Note:Driving through deep water maydamage the transmission.
If the front or rear axle is submerged in water,have the power transfer unit (PTU) or rearaxle serviced by an authorized dealer.
“Tread Lightly” is an educational programdesigned to increase public awareness ofland-use regulations and responsibilities inour nations wilderness areas. Ford MotorCompany joins the U.S. Forest Service andthe Bureau of Land Management inencouraging you to help preserve ournational forest and other public and privatelands by “treading lightly.”
Driving on Hilly or Sloping Terrain
Note:Avoid driving crosswise or turning onsteep slopes or hills. A danger lies in losingtraction, slipping sideways and possiblyrolling over. Whenever driving on a hill,determine beforehand the route you will use.Do not drive over the crest of a hill withoutseeing what conditions are on the other side.Do not drive in reverse over a hill withoutthe aid of an observer.
Although natural obstacles may make itnecessary to travel diagonally up or down ahill or steep incline, you should always try todrive straight up or straight down.
When climbing a steep slope or hill, start ina lower gear rather than downshifting to alower 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 cause thetires to slip, spin or lose traction, resulting inloss of vehicle control.
Descend a hill in the same gear you woulduse to climb up the hill to avoid excessivebrake application and brake overheating. Donot descend in neutral; instead, disengageoverdrive or manually shift to a lower gear.When descending a steep hill, avoid suddenhard braking as you could lose control. Thefront wheels have to be turning in order tosteer the vehicle.
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When you override the system, thegreen indicator light illuminatesand the vehicle graphic does notappear in the information display.
The system resumes operation when yourelease the accelerator pedal. The vehiclespeed decreases to the set speed, or a lowerspeed if following a slower vehicle.
Changing the Set Speed
•Press SET+ or SET- to change the setspeed in small increments.
•Press the accelerator or brake pedal untilyou reach the desired speed. Press SET+or SET-.
•Press and hold SET+ or SET- to changethe set speed in large increments.Release the control when you reach thedesired speed.
The system may apply the brakes to slowthe vehicle to the new set speed. The setspeed displays continuously in theinformation display when the system isactive.
Canceling the Set Speed
Press CNCL or tap the brake pedal. The setspeed does not erase.
Resuming the Set Speed
Note:Only use resume if you are aware ofthe set speed and intend to return to it.
Press RES. Your vehicle speed returns tothe previously set speed and gap setting. The set speed displays continuously in theinformation display when the system isactive.
Automatic Cancellation
Note:If the engine speed drops too low, anaudible warning sounds and a messageappears in the information display.Automatic braking releases.
The system does not operate below 12 mph(20 km/h).
Automatic cancellation can also occur if:
•The tires lose traction.
•The engine speed is too low.
•You apply the parking brake.
Hilly Condition Usage
Note:An audible alarm sounds and thesystem shuts down if it applies brakes for anextended period of time. This allows thebrakes to cool. The system functionsnormally again after the brakes cool.
Select a lower gear when the system isactive in situations such as prolongeddownhill driving on steep grades, forexample in mountainous areas. The systemneeds additional engine braking in thesesituations to reduce the load on the vehicle’sregular brake system to prevent it fromoverheating.
Switching Adaptive Cruise Control Off
Note:You erase the set speed and gapsetting when you switch the system off.
Press OFF when the system is in standbymode, or switch the ignition off.
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Note:The system turns on each time youswitch the ignition on and you shift intoreverse (R). If you temporarily switch thesystem off, it turns on the next time youswitch the ignition on.
Note:The system may not correctly operatewhen towing a trailer. For vehicles with atrailer tow module and tow bar approved byus, the system turns off when you attach atrailer. 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
WARNING
If the system detects an error, you maynot feel a difference in the steering,however a serious condition may exist. Haveyour vehicle checked as soon as possible,failure to do so may result in loss of steeringcontrol.
Note:The electric power steering systemhas diagnostic checks that continuouslymonitor the system. If a fault is detected amessage displays in the information display.Stop your vehicle as soon as it is safe to doso and switch the ignition off. After waitingat least 10 seconds, switch the ignition onand watch the information display for asteering system warning message. If asteering system warning message returns,have the system checked as soon aspossible.
Your vehicle has an electric power steeringsystem. There is no fluid reservoir. Nomaintenance is required.
If your vehicle loses electrical power whileyou are driving, electric power steeringassistance is lost. The steering system stilloperates and you can steer your vehiclemanually. Manually steering your vehiclerequires more effort.
Extreme continuous steering may increasethe effort required for you to steer yourvehicle. This increased effort preventsoverheating and permanent damage to thesteering system. You do not lose the abilityto steer your vehicle manually. Typicalsteering and driving maneuvers allow thesystem to cool and return to normaloperation.
Steering Tips
Steering wander or pull could be caused byany of the following:
•Incorrect tire pressures.
•Uneven tire wear.
•Crowned road surface.
•High crosswind.
If the problem persists, have your vehiclechecked as soon as possible.
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Driving Aids
Adaptive Learning
The electronic power steering systemadaptive learning helps correct roadirregularities and improves overall handlingand steering feel. It communicates with thebrake system to help operate advancedstability control and accident avoidancesystems. Additionally, whenever the batteryis disconnected or a new battery installed,you must drive your vehicle a short distancebefore the system relearns the strategy andreactivates all systems.
Adaptive Steering (If Equipped)
Note:The adaptive steering system hasdiagnostic checks that continuously monitorthe system. If a fault is detected a messagedisplays in the information display. If a redwarning message displays, stop your vehicleas soon as it is safe to do so. The messagemay clear if the fault is no longer present. Ifan adaptive steering system warningmessage appears each time you start yourvehicle, have the system checked as soonas possible.
The adaptive steering system continuallychanges the steering ratio with changes tovehicle speed, optimizing the steeringresponse in all conditions.
The adaptive steering system is designedwith a locking device. While the lock isengaged, your vehicle returns to a fixedsteering ratio. You may also notice a soundwhen you start or turn off your vehicle as thelock is disengaged or engaged. If yourvehicle loses electrical power or detects afault while you are driving, the lock engagesand you are able to continue steering. Duringthis time it is possible that the steering wheelmay not be straight when the vehicle isdriving straight ahead. During this time youmay notice that the steering wheel anglerequired to steer the vehicle may bedifferent. Extreme operating conditions mayalso cause the lock to engage. This strategyprevents overheating and permanentdamage to the adaptive steering system.Typical steering and driving maneuvers allowthe system to cool and return to normaloperation.
PRE-COLLISION ASSIST (If Equipped)
WARNINGS
At all times, you are responsible forcontrolling your vehicle, supervisingthe system and intervening, if required.Failure to take care may result in the loss ofcontrol of your vehicle, serious personalinjury or death.
The system is designed to aid thedriver. It is not intended to replace yourattention and judgment. You are stillresponsible to drive with due care andattention.
The system does not detect vehiclesthat are driving in a different direction,pedestrians at night, cyclists or animals.Failure to take care may result in the loss ofcontrol of your vehicle, serious personalinjury or death.
The system does not operate duringhard acceleration or steering. Failureto take care may lead to a crash or personalinjury.
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Driving Aids
BREAKING-IN
You need to break in new tires forapproximately 300 mi (480 km). During thistime, your vehicle may exhibit some unusualdriving characteristics.
Avoid driving too fast during the first 1,000 mi(1,600 km). Vary your speed frequently andchange up through the gears early. Do notlabor the engine.
Do not tow during the first 1,000 mi(1,600 km).
REDUCED ENGINE PERFORMANCE
WARNING
If you continue to drive your vehiclewhen the engine is overheating, theengine could stop without warning. Failureto follow this instruction could result in theloss of control of your vehicle.
If the engine coolant temperature gaugeneedle moves to the upper limit position, theengine is overheating. See Gauges (page111).
You must only drive your vehicle for a shortdistance if the engine overheats. Thedistance you can travel depends on ambienttemperature, vehicle load and terrain. Theengine continues to operate with limitedpower for a short period of time.
If the engine temperature continues to rise,the fuel supply to the engine reduces. Theair conditioning switches off and the enginecooling fan operates continually.
1. Gradually reduce your speed and stopyour vehicle as soon as it is safe to doso.
2. Immediately switch the engine off toprevent severe engine damage.
3. Wait for the engine to cool down.
4. Check the coolant level. See EngineCoolant Check (page 316).
5. Have your vehicle checked as soon aspossible.
ECONOMICAL DRIVING
Fuel economy is affected by several thingssuch as how you drive, the conditions youdrive under and how you maintain yourvehicle.
There are some things to keep in mind thatmay improve your fuel economy:
•Accelerate and slow down in a smooth,moderate fashion.
•Drive at steady speeds.
•Anticipate stops; slowing down mayeliminate the need to stop.
•Combine errands and minimizestop-and-go driving (When runningerrands, go to the furthest destinationfirst and then work your way back home).
•Close the windows for high-speeddriving.
•Drive at reasonable speeds.
•Keep the tires properly inflated and useonly the recommended size.
•Use the recommended engine oil.
•Perform all regularly scheduledmaintenance.
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Driving Hints
Adding Coolant
WARNINGS
Do not add engine coolant when theengine is hot. Failure to follow thisinstruction could result in personal injury.
Never remove the coolant reservoircap when the engine is running or hot.
Note: Automotive fluids are notinterchangeable. Take care not to putengine coolant in the windshield washer fluidreservoir or windshield washer fluid in theengine coolant reservoir.
Note: Do not use stop leak pellets, coolingsystem sealants, or non-specified additivesas they can cause damage to the enginecooling or heating systems. Resultingcomponent damage may not be covered bythe vehicle Warranty.
It is very important to use prediluted coolantapproved to the correct specification in orderto avoid plugging the small passageways inthe engine cooling system. See Capacitiesand Specifications (page 381). Do not mixdifferent colors or types of coolant in yourvehicle. Mixing of engine coolants or usingan incorrect coolant may harm the engine orcooling system components and may not becovered by the vehicle Warranty.
Note:If prediluted coolant is not available,use the approved concentrated coolantdiluting it to 50/50 with distilled water. SeeCapacities and Specifications (page 381).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 the following:
1. Unscrew the cap slowly. Any pressureescapes as you unscrew the cap.
2. Add prediluted coolant approved to thecorrect specification. See Capacities andSpecifications (page 381).
3.Add enough prediluted coolant to reachthe 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 your vehiclechecked as soon as possible. Operating anengine with a low level of coolant can resultin engine overheating and possible enginedamage.
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Maintenance
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.
In case of emergency, you can add a largeamount of water without engine coolant inorder to reach a vehicle service location. Inthis instance, qualified personnel:
1. Must drain the cooling system.
2. Chemically clean the coolant system.
3. Refill with engine coolant as soon aspossible.
Water alone, without engine coolant, cancause engine damage from corrosion,overheating or freezing.
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 of thecoolant.
Recycled Coolant
We do not recommend the use of recycledcoolant as an approved recycling process isnot yet available.
Dispose of used engine coolant in anappropriate manner. Follow yourcommunity's regulations and standards forrecycling and disposing of automotive fluids.
Severe Climates
If you drive in extremely cold climates:
•It may be necessary to increase thecoolant concentration above 50%.
•A coolant concentration of 60% providesimproved freeze point protection. Coolant concentrations above 60%decrease the overheat protectioncharacteristics of the coolant and maycause engine damage.
If you drive in extremely hot climates:
•You can decrease the coolantconcentration to 40%.
•Coolant concentrations below 40%decrease the freeze and corrosionprotection characteristics of the coolantand may cause engine damage.
Vehicles driven year-round in non-extremeclimates should use prediluted coolant foroptimum cooling system and engineprotection.
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Maintenance