2018 LINCOLN MKZ check engine

Note:Automotive fluids are notinterchangeable. Do not use coolant orwindshield washer fluid outside of itsspecified function and vehicle location.
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.
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.
It is very important to use prediluted coolantmeeting the correct specification in order toavoid plugging the small passageways in theengine cooling system. See Capacities andSpecifications (page 380). Incorrectprediluted coolant use can cause damagenot covered by the vehicle Warranty.
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 meeting thecorrect specification. See Capacities andSpecifications (page 373).
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.
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.
Do not mix different colors or types ofprediluted coolant in your vehicle. Mixing ofprediluted coolant or using an incorrectprediluted coolant may harm the engine orcooling system components and may not becovered by the vehicle Warranty.
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 cooling system.
3. Refill with prediluted coolant as soon aspossible.
Water alone, without prediluted 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.
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Maintenance

When this occurs, your vehicle still operates,however:
•Engine power is limited.
•The air conditioning system turns off.
Continued operation increases the enginetemperature, causing the engine tocompletely shut down. Your steering andbraking effort increases in this situation.
When the engine temperature cools, you canre-start the engine. Have your vehiclechecked as soon as possible to minimizeengine damage.
When Fail-Safe Mode Is Activated
WARNINGS
Fail-safe mode is for use duringemergencies only. Operate yourvehicle in fail-safe mode only as long asnecessary to bring your vehicle to rest in asafe location and seek immediate repairs.When in fail-safe mode, your vehicle will havelimited power, will not be able to maintain
WARNINGS
high-speed operation, and may completelyshut down without warning, potentially losingengine power, power steering assist, andpower brake assist, which may increase thepossibility of a crash resulting in seriousinjury.
Never remove the coolant reservoircap when the engine is running or hot.
Your vehicle has limited engine power whenin the fail-safe mode, drive your vehicle withcaution. Your vehicle does not maintainhigh-speed operation and the engine mayoperate poorly.
Remember that the engine is capable ofautomatically shutting down to preventengine damage. In this situation:
1. Pull off the road as soon as safelypossible and switch the engine off.
2. If you are a member of a roadsideassistance program, we recommend thatyou contact your roadside assistanceservice provider.
3.If this is not possible, wait a short periodfor the engine to cool.
4. Check the coolant level. If the coolantlevel is at or below the minimum mark,add prediluted coolant immediately.
5.When the engine temperature cools, youcan re-start the engine. Have your vehiclechecked as soon as possible to minimizeengine damage.
Note:If this is not possible, wait a shortperiod for the engine to cool.
Engine Coolant TemperatureManagement (If Equipped)
WARNING
To reduce the risk of crash and injury,be prepared that the vehicle speedmay reduce and the vehicle may not be ableto accelerate with full power until the coolanttemperature reduces.
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If you tow a trailer with your vehicle, theengine may temporarily reach a highertemperature during severe operatingconditions, for example ascending a long orsteep grade in high ambient temperatures.
At this time, you may notice the coolanttemperature gauge moves toward the redzone and a message may appear in theinformation display.
You may notice a reduction in vehicle speedcaused by reduced engine power in orderto manage the engine coolant temperature. Your vehicle may enter this mode if certainhigh-temperature and high-load conditionstake place. The amount of speed reductiondepends on vehicle loading, grade andambient temperature. If this occurs, there isno need to pull off the road. You cancontinue to drive your vehicle.
The air conditioning may automatically turnon and off during severe operatingconditions to protect the engine fromoverheating. When the coolant temperaturedecreases to the normal operatingtemperature, the air conditioning turns on.
If the coolant temperature gauge moves fullyinto the red zone, or if the coolanttemperature warning or service engine soonmessages appear in your information display,do the following:
1. Pull off the road as soon as safelypossible and shift the transmission intopark (P).
2. Leave the engine running until thecoolant temperature gauge needlereturns to the normal position. If thetemperature does not drop after severalminutes, follow the remaining steps.
3. Switch the engine off and wait for it tocool. Check the coolant level.
4. If the coolant level is at or below theminimum mark, add prediluted coolantimmediately.
5. If the coolant level is normal, restart theengine and continue.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID CHECK
6F35/HF35 transmission (If Equipped)
Note:Transmission fluid should be checkedby an authorized dealer. If required, fluidshould be added by an authorized dealer.
The automatic transmission does not havea transmission fluid dipstick.
Refer to your scheduled maintenanceinformation for scheduled intervals for fluidchecks and changes. Your transmission doesnot consume fluid. However, the fluid levelshould be checked if the transmission is notworking properly, (For example: if thetransmission slips or shifts slowly) or if younotice some sign of fluid leakage. SeeScheduled Maintenance (page 509).
Do not use supplemental transmission fluidadditives, treatments or cleaning agents. Theuse of these materials may affecttransmission operation and result in damageto internal transmission components.
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Maintenance

6F50/6F55 Transmission (If Equipped)
WARNINGS
The dipstick cap and surroundingcomponents may be hot; gloves arerecommended.
Use gloves when moving the air filterassembly. Components will be hot.
Note:Automatic transmission fluid expandswhen warmed. To obtain an accurate fluidcheck, drive the vehicle until it is warmed up(approximately 20 miles [30 kilometers]). Ifyour vehicle has been operated for anextended period at high speeds, in city trafficduring hot weather or pulling a trailer, thevehicle should be turned off until normaloperating temperatures are reached to allowthe fluid to cool before checking. Dependingon vehicle use, cooling times could take upto 30 minutes or longer.
Refer to your scheduled maintenanceinformation for scheduled intervals for fluidchecks and changes. Your transmission doesnot consume fluid. However, the fluid levelshould be checked if the transmission is notworking properly. For example, if thetransmission slips or shifts slowly or if younotice some sign of fluid leakage.
1.Drive the vehicle 20 miles (30 kilometers)or until it reaches normal operatingtemperature
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface andengage the parking brake.
3.With the parking brake engaged and yourfoot on the brake pedal, start the engineand move the gearshift lever through allof the gear ranges. Allow a minimum of10 seconds for each gear to engage.
4. Put the gearshift lever in P (Park) andleave the engine running.
Note:You will need to move the air filterassembly to access the transmissiondipstick.
5.Remove the dipstick, wiping it clean witha clean, dry lint free rag. If necessary,refer to Under hood overview in thischapter for the location of the dipstick.
6. Install the dipstick making sure it is fullyseated in the filler tube by turning it tothe locked position.
7.Remove the dipstick and inspect the fluidlevel. The fluid should be in thedesignated areas for normal operatingtemperature.
Moving the Air Filter Assembly (Accessingthe Dipstick)
WARNING
Do not run engine with the air filterdisconnected.
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Adjusting Automatic Transmission FluidLevels
Before adding any fluid, make sure thecorrect type is used. The type of fluid usedis normally indicated on the dipstick and alsoin the Technical Specifications section in thischapter.
Note:An overfill condition of transmissionfluid may cause shift or engagementconcerns or possible damage.
Do not use supplemental transmission fluidadditives, treatments or cleaning agents. Theuse of these materials may affecttransmission operation and result in damageto internal transmission components.Reinstall the air filter assembly. After the fluidlevel has been checked and adjusted asnecessary, do the following:
1. Shut the engine off.
2. Loosen the clamp holding the air filterassembly to the rubber hose.
3.Rotate the air filter assembly 90 degreesclockwise without disconnecting thesensor.
4.Seat the air filter assembly back into thegrommets by pushing down on the airfilter assembly.
5. Tighten the clamp.
6. Install and tighten two bolts that attachair filter assembly to the front of thevehicle.
7. Install the bolt cover (if equipped).
8. Reinstall the harness retaining clip intothe front of the air filter assembly.
BRAKE FLUID CHECK
WARNINGS
Do not use any fluid other than therecommended brake fluid as this willreduce brake efficiency. Use of incorrect fluidcould result in the loss of vehicle control,serious personal injury or death.
Only use brake fluid from a sealedcontainer. Contamination with dirt,water, petroleum products or other materialsmay result in brake system damage or failure.Failure to adhere to this warning could resultin the loss of vehicle control, seriouspersonal injury or death.
Do not allow the fluid to touch yourskin or eyes. If this happens, rinse theaffected areas immediately with plenty ofwater and contact your physician.
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WARNINGS
A fluid level between the MAX andMIN lines is within the normaloperating range and there is no need to addfluid. A fluid level not in the normal operatingrange could compromise the performanceof the system. Have your vehicle checkedimmediately.
To avoid fluid contamination, the reservoircap must remain in place and fully tight,unless you are adding fluid.
Only use fluid that meets Ford specifications.See Capacities and Specifications (page373).
WASHER FLUID CHECK
WARNING
If you operate your vehicle intemperatures below 41.0°F (5°C), usewasher fluid with antifreeze protection.Failure to use washer fluid with antifreezeprotection in cold weather could result inimpaired windshield vision and increase therisk of injury or accident.
Note:The front and rear washer systemsare supplied from the same reservoir.
Add fluid to fill the reservoir if the level is low.Only use a washer fluid that meets Fordspecifications. See Capacities andSpecifications (page 373).
State or local regulations on volatile organiccompounds may restrict the use of methanol,a common windshield washer antifreezeadditive. Washer fluids containingnon-methanol antifreeze agents should beused only if they provide cold weatherprotection without damaging the vehicle’spaint finish, wiper blades or washer system.
FUEL FILTER
2.0L Engines and 3.0L Engines withFWD
Your vehicle is equipped with a lifetime fuelfilter that is integrated with the fuel tank.Regular maintenance or replacement is notneeded.
3.0L Engines with AWD
The fuel filter on your vehicle must bereplaced at the specified service interval.See Scheduled Maintenance (page 509).
CHANGING THE 12V BATTERY
WARNINGS
Batteries normally produce explosivegases which can cause personal injury.Therefore, do not allow flames, sparks orlighted substances to come near the battery.When working near the battery, always shieldyour face and protect your eyes. Alwaysprovide correct ventilation.
When lifting a plastic-cased battery,excessive pressure on the end wallscould cause acid to flow through the ventcaps, resulting in personal injury and damageto the vehicle or battery. Lift the battery witha battery carrier or with your hands onopposite corners.
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5. Run the engine until it reaches normaloperating temperature. While the engineis warming up, complete the following:Reset the clock. See Audio Unit (page395). Reset the power windowsbounce-back feature. See PowerWindows (page 96). Reset the radiostation presets. See Audio Unit (page395).
6. Allow the engine to idle for at least oneminute.
7.Drive the vehicle at least 10 mi (16 km) tocompletely relearn the idle trim and fueltrim strategy.
Note:If you do not allow the engine torelearn the idle and fuel trim strategy, theidle quality of your vehicle may be adverselyaffected until the engine computereventually relearns the idle trim and fuel trimstrategy.
Note:Certain features may not operate ifthe battery monitor system is not reset witha scan tool following a jump start or batteryreplacement. Normal electrical accessoryoperation should resume after your vehicleis left undisturbed for 8 hours.
Make sure that you dispose of old batteriesin an environmentally friendly way. Seekadvice from your local authority aboutrecycling old batteries.
If storing your vehicle for more than 30 dayswithout recharging the battery, werecommend that you disconnect the batterycables to maintain battery charge for quickstarting.
CHECKING THE WIPER BLADES
Run the tip of your fingers over the edge ofthe blade to check for roughness.
Clean the wiper blades with washer fluid orwater applied with a soft sponge or cloth.
CHANGING THE WIPER BLADES
Replace the wiper blades at least annuallyfor optimum performance.
You can improve poor wiper quality bycleaning the wiper blades and thewindshield.
Note:Do not hold the wiper blade whenlifting the wiper arm.
Note:Make sure that the wiper arm doesnot spring back against the glass when thewiper blade is not attached.
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Engine
•Change the engine oil and filter prior tostorage because used engine oil containscontaminates which may cause enginedamage.
•Start the engine every 15 days for aminimum of 15 minutes. Run at fast idlewith the climate controls set to defrostuntil the engine reaches normaloperating temperature.
•With your foot on the brake, shift throughall the gears while the engine is running.
•We recommend that you change theengine oil before you use your vehicleagain.
Fuel system
•Fill the fuel tank with high-quality fueluntil the first automatic shutoff of the fuelpump nozzle.
Cooling system
•Protect against freezing temperatures.
•When removing your vehicle fromstorage, check coolant fluid level.Confirm that there are no cooling systemleaks and that fluid is at therecommended level.
Battery
•Check and recharge as necessary. Keepconnections clean.
•If storing your vehicle for more than 30days without recharging the battery, werecommend that you disconnect thebattery cables to maintain battery chargefor quick starting.
Note:It is necessary to reset memoryfeatures if battery cables are disconnected.
Brakes
•Make sure the brakes and parking brakerelease fully.
Tires
•Maintain recommended air pressure.
Miscellaneous
•Make sure all linkages, cables, levers andpins under your vehicle are covered withgrease to prevent rust.
•Move vehicles at least 25 ft (7.5 m) every15 days to lubricate working parts andprevent corrosion.
Removing Vehicle From Storage
When your vehicle is ready to come out ofstorage, do the following:
•Wash your vehicle to remove any dirt orgrease film build-up on window surfaces.
•Check windshield wipers for anydeterioration.
•Check under the hood for any foreignmaterial that may have collected duringstorage such as mice or squirrel nests.
•Check the exhaust for any foreignmaterial that may have collected duringstorage.
•Check tire pressures and set tire inflationper the Tire Label.
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Vehicle Care