2018 LINCOLN MKZ HYBRID Owners Manual

Transmission Operation:
Due to the technologically advanced,electronically-controlled continuouslyvariable transaxle, you will not feel shiftchanges like those of a non-hybrid vehicle.
Note:Since engine speed is controlled bythe transmission, it may seem elevated attimes. This is normal hybrid operation andhelps deliver fuel efficiency andperformance.
Neutral:
We recommend that you do not idle thevehicle in neutral (N) for an extended periodof time because this will discharge your highvoltage battery, shut off your air conditioningand heating, and decrease fuel economy.The engine will not start or stop, and cannotprovide power to the hybrid system in neutral(N).
Low:
Low (L) is designed to mimic the enhancedengine braking available in non-hybridvehicles. Low gear will produce high enginespeeds to provide necessary engine braking.This is normal and will not damage yourvehicle. In low gear, the gas engine willremain on more often than in drive (D).
Reverse:
In reverse (R), vehicle speed is limited to22 mph (35 km/h).
Battery:
Your hybrid is equipped with a high voltagebattery. A cool battery maintains battery lifeand provides the best possible performance.The high voltage battery is cooled by cabinair drawn from vent holes in the trim panelsbehind the rear seats. Avoid placing objectsat the vent holes that block airflow to thehigh voltage battery.
Engine:
The engine speed in your hybrid is notdirectly tied to your vehicle speed. Yourvehicle's engine and transmission aredesigned to deliver the power you need atthe most efficient engine speed. Duringheavy accelerations, your hybrid may reachhigh engine speeds (up to 6000 RPM).
In prolonged mountainous driving, you maysee the engine speed changing without yourinput. This is intentional and maintains thebattery charge level. You may also noticeduring extended downhill driving that yourengine continues to run instead of shuttingoff.
During this engine braking, the engine stayson, but it is not using any fuel. You may alsohear a slight whine or whistle when operatingyour vehicle. This is the normal operation ofthe electric generator in the hybrid system.
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During certain events (such as vehicleservicing) your low voltage 12-volt batterymay become disconnected or disabled. Oncethe battery is reconnected and after drivingthe vehicle, the engine may continue tooperate for three to five seconds after thekey is turned to off. This is a normalcondition.
Braking:
Your hybrid is equipped with standardhydraulic braking and regenerative braking.Regenerative braking is performed by yourtransmission and it captures brake energyand stores it in your high voltage battery.
Driving to Optimize Fuel Economy
Note:Having your engine running is notalways an indication of inefficiency. In somecases, it is actually more efficient thandriving in electric mode.
Your fuel economy should improvethroughout your hybrid's break-in period. Aswith any vehicle, your driving habits andaccessory usage can significantly impactyour fuel economy. For best results, keep inmind these tips:
•Keep the tires properly inflated and onlyuse the recommended size.
•Aggressive driving increases the amountof energy required to move your vehicle.In general, you can achieve better fueleconomy with mild to moderateacceleration and deceleration. Moderatebraking is particularly important since itallows you to maximize the energycaptured by the regenerative brakingsystem.
Additional Tips:
•Do not carry extra loads.
•Be mindful of adding externalaccessories that may increaseaerodynamic drag.
•Observe posted speed limits.
•Perform all scheduled maintenance.
•There is no need to wait for your engineto warm up. The vehicle is ready to driveimmediately after starting.
ECOSELECT
EcoSelect is a drive mode for non plug-invehicles designed to offer the best possiblefuel economy with tradeoffs in vehicleperformance and comfort.
To switch EcoSelect on, press theECO button.
A graphic displays on your informationdisplay when EcoSelect is on.
Your vehicle will remember the last selectedmode whenever you start your vehicle.
EcoSelect allows your vehicle to operatemore efficiently. You will notice:
•Less aggressive cooling.
•Softer acceleration.
•Increased deceleration when coasting.
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•Changes in engine behavior.•ECO cruise control activation.
HYBRID VEHICLE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
AnswerQuestion
The high voltage battery is electrically isolated from the rest of thevehicle when the key is off. When you switch the key on, high voltagecontactors inside the battery are closed to make the electricity avail-able to the motor and generator and enable the vehicle to drive. Theclicks are the sound of these contactors as they close and open duringstart up and shut down.
What are the series of clicks from the cargo area when I first turn thekey in the ignition?
The vehicle's computer will determine if an engine start is requiredat key-on. Silent key start will start the engine if it is necessary forcabin heating, windshield defrost, or if the outside temperature is low.(For C-MAX and Fusion 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 stays on for an extended amountof time when you first start it. One common reason is to make surethat the emissions components are warm enough to minimize tailpipeemissions. 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 this speed to protect thetransmission hardware.Why does my engine never shut down above 85 mph (137 km/h)
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AnswerQuestion
In order to make sure that the climate control system can begin heatingthe cabin or defrosting the windshield as soon as a driver requestsit, the engine coolant temperature has to be kept sufficiently hot.Keeping the engine on is required to maintain the correct coolanttemperature.
Why does my engine stay on when it is extremely cold outside?
Your vehicle's engine and transmission are designed to deliver thepower you need at the most efficient engine speed. This may behigher than expected during heavy accelerations, and may fluctuatewhen driving at a steady speed. These are characteristics of theAtkinson engine cycle and the transmission technology that helpmaximize your hybrid's fuel economy.
Why does my engine rev up so high sometimes when I accelerate?
The fan noise comes from a fan located next to the high voltagebattery pack. This fan turns on when the battery requires cooling air.The fan speed, and associated noise level, will change according tothe amount of cooling required to maintain good performance. Main-taining the battery temperature at optimal conditions also prolongsthe 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 10,000 mi (16,000 km) or once per yearunder normal operating conditions.What is the engine oil change service interval?
Your hybrid vehicle can use E15 (15% ethanol, 85% gasoline) fuel, butyou may notice slightly reduced fuel economy because ethanolcontains less energy per gallon than gasoline. Your hybrid vehicle isnot designed to use E85 (85% ethanol).
Can I put E15 or E85 in my vehicle, and how will it affect my fueleconomy?
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AnswerQuestion
The high voltage battery system is designed to last the life of thevehicle 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 apower supply external to the vehicle. (For C-MAX Energi vehicles, thevehicle can be plugged into a 110-volt outlet with charge cordprovided.)
Can you charge the battery with a plug into an A/C outlet?
Yes. Your hybrid vehicle can be flat towed without modification. SeeTowing (page 260).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. Thepressure in an overfilled tank maycause leakage and lead to fuel spray andfire.
The fuel system may be underpressure. If you hear a hissing soundnear the fuel filler inlet, do not refuel until thesound stops. Otherwise, fuel may spray out,which could cause serious personal injury.
Fuels can cause serious injury or deathif misused or mishandled.
Fuel may contain benzene, which is acancer-causing agent.
When refueling always shut the engineoff and never allow sparks or openflames near the fuel tank filler valve. Neversmoke or use a cell phone while refueling.Fuel vapor is extremely hazardous undercertain conditions. Avoid inhaling excessfumes.
Follow these guidelines when refueling:
•Extinguish all smoking materials and anyopen flames before refueling yourvehicle.
•Always switch the engine off beforerefueling.
•Automotive fuels can be harmful or fatalif swallowed. Fuel is highly toxic and ifswallowed can cause death or permanentinjury. If fuel is swallowed immediatelycall a physician, even if no symptoms areimmediately apparent. The toxic effectsof fuel may not be apparent for hours.
•Avoid inhaling fuel vapors. Inhaling fuelvapor can lead to eye and respiratorytract irritation. In severe cases, excessiveor prolonged breathing of fuel vapor cancause serious illness and permanentinjury.
•Avoid getting fuel in your eyes. If yousplash fuel in your eyes, immediatelyremove contact lenses (if worn), flush withwater for 15 minutes and seek medicalattention. Failure to seek proper medicalattention could lead to permanent injury.
•Fuels can be harmful if absorbed throughthe skin. If you splash fuel on your skin,clothing or both, promptly removecontaminated clothing and thoroughlywash your skin with soap and water.Repeated or prolonged skin contactcauses skin irritation.
•Be particularly careful if you are takingAntabuse or other forms of Disulfiram forthe treatment of alcoholism. Breathingfuel vapors could cause an adversereaction, serious personal injury orsickness. Immediately call a physician ifyou experience any adverse reactions.
FUEL QUALITY
Choosing the Right Fuel
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Your vehicle is designed to operate onregular unleaded gasoline with a minimumpump (R+M)/2 octane rating of 87.
Some fuel stations, particularly those in highaltitude areas, offer fuels posted as regularunleaded gasoline with an octane ratingbelow 87. We do not recommend these fuels.
For best overall vehicle and engineperformance, premium fuel with an octanerating of 91 or higher is recommended. Theperformance gained by using premium fuelis most noticeable in hot weather.
Do not use any fuel other than thoserecommended because they could lead toengine damage that will not be covered bythe vehicle Warranty.
Note:Use of any fuel other than thoserecommended can impair the emissioncontrol system and cause a loss of vehicleperformance.
Do not use:
•Diesel fuel.
•Fuels containing kerosene or paraffin.
•Fuel containing more than 15% ethanolor E85 fuel.
•Fuels containing methanol.
•Fuels containing metallic-based additives,including manganese-based compounds.
•Fuels containing the octane boosteradditive, methylcyclopentadienylmanganese tricarbonyl (MMT).
•Leaded fuel (using leaded fuel isprohibited by law).
The use of fuels with metallic compoundssuch as methylcyclopentadienyl manganesetricarbonyl (commonly known as MMT), whichis a manganese-based fuel additive, willimpair engine performance and affect theemission control system.
Do not be concerned if the enginesometimes knocks lightly. However, if theengine knocks heavily while using fuel withthe recommended octane rating, contact anauthorized dealer to prevent any enginedamage.
Fuel Freshness Mode (If Equipped)
This helps keep the fuel system functionaland the fuel fresh.
If you mainly use your vehicle in electricpower mode without refueling, the gasolinein the fuel tank may become stale due toaging. Stale gasoline can damage theengine and fuel system.
Your vehicle automatically switches to fuelfreshness mode if you do not refuel yourvehicle with fresh fuel within an 18-monthperiod. Fuel freshness mode protects yourvehicle from potential engine and fuel systemdamage caused by using stale fuel.
Note:If you do not add new fuel during an18-month period, fuel freshness mode willuse fuel until approximately 1.2 gal (4.5 L) offuel remains in the fuel tank.
During fuel freshness mode:
•The information display will indicate fuelfreshness mode is active.
•The vehicle will only run in hybrid mode.EV Now mode will not be available.
•Most of the plug-in power will be storeduntil fuel freshness mode is completed.
Note:EV Now mode resumes when less than1.2 gal (4.5 L) of fuel remains in the fuel tank.
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Note:When the fuel level is less thanone-quarter full, refueling your vehicle willend fuel freshness mode.
Note:We recommend you use a fuelstabilizer if you use less than a full tank offuel during an 18-month period.
FUEL FILLER FUNNEL LOCATION
The fuel filler funnel is under the luggagecompartment floor covering.
RUNNING OUT OF FUEL
Avoid running out of fuel because thissituation may have an adverse effect onvehicle components.
If you have run out of fuel:
•To start the vehicle with a keylessignition, just start the engine. Crank timewill be longer than usual.
•Normally, adding 1 gal (3.8 L) of fuel isenough to restart the vehicle. If thevehicle is out of fuel and on a steepgrade, more than 1 gal (3.8 L) may berequired.
•The service engine soon indicator maycome on.
Refilling With a Portable Fuel Container
WARNINGS
Flow of fuel through a fuel pump nozzlecan produce static electricity. This cancause a fire if you are filling an ungroundedfuel container.
Do not insert the nozzle of a fuelcontainer or an aftermarket funnel intothe fuel filler neck. This may damage the fuelsystem filler neck or its seal and cause fuelto run onto the ground.
WARNINGS
Do not try to pry open or push openthe capless fuel system with foreignobjects. This could damage the fuel systemand its seal and cause injury to you or others.
Note:Do not use aftermarket funnels; theywill not work with the capless fuel systemand can damage it. The included speciallydesigned funnel works safely with yourvehicle.
When filling the vehicle’s fuel tank from aportable fuel container, use the funnelincluded with the vehicle.
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