Direction of travel.A
Steering wheel rotation.B
Avoid sudden applications of power andquick changes of direction on snow and ice.Apply the accelerator slowly and steadilywhen starting from a full stop.
Avoid sudden braking as well. Although anAWD vehicle may accelerate better than atwo-wheel drive vehicle in snow and ice, itwon’t stop any faster, because as in othervehicles, braking occurs at all four wheels.Do not become overconfident as to roadconditions.
Make sure you allow sufficient distancebetween you and other vehicles for stopping.Drive slower than usual and consider usingone of the lower gears. In emergencystopping situations, apply the brake steadily.Since your vehicle is equipped with a fourwheel (ABS), do not “pump” the brakes. SeeHints on Driving With Anti-Lock Brakes(page 196).
Maintenance and Modifications
The suspension and steering systems onyour vehicle have been designed and testedto provide predictable performance whetherloaded or empty and durable load carryingcapability. For this reason, Ford MotorCompany strongly recommends that you donot make modifications such as adding orremoving parts (such as lowering kits orstabilizer bars) or by using replacement partsnot equivalent to the original factoryequipment.
Any modifications to a vehicle that raise thecenter of gravity can make it more likely thevehicle will rollover as a result of a loss ofcontrol. Ford Motor Company recommendsthat caution be used with any vehicleequipped with a high load or device (suchas ladder or luggage racks).
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B
GENERAL INFORMATION
Note: Occasional brake noise is normal. Ifa metal-to-metal, continuous grinding orcontinuous squeal sound is present, thebrake linings may be worn-out. Have thesystem checked by an authorized dealer. Ifyour vehicle has continuous vibration orshudder in the steering wheel while braking,have it checked by an authorized dealer.
Note:Brake dust may accumulate on thewheels, even under normal drivingconditions. Some dust is inevitable as thebrakes wear and does not contribute tobrake noise. See Cleaning the Wheels(page 333).
Note:Depending on applicable laws andregulations in the country for which yourvehicle was originally built, your brake lampsmay flash during heavy braking. Followingthis, your hazard lights may also flash whenyour vehicle comes to a stop.
See Warning Lamps andIndicators (page 106).
Wet brakes result in reduced brakingefficiency. Gently press the brake pedal afew times when driving from a car wash orstanding water to dry the brakes.
Brake Over Accelerator
In the event the accelerator pedal becomesstuck or entrapped, apply steady and firmpressure to the brake pedal to slow thevehicle and reduce engine power. If youexperience this condition, apply the brakesand bring your vehicle to a safe stop. Movethe transmission to park (P), switch theengine off and apply the parking brake. Inspect the accelerator pedal for anyinterference. If none are found and thecondition persists, have your vehicle towedto the nearest authorized dealer.
Brake Assist
Brake assist detects when you brake rapidlyby measuring the rate at which you press thebrake pedal. It provides maximum brakingefficiency as long as you press the pedal,and can reduce stopping distances in criticalsituations.
Anti-lock Brake System
This system helps you maintain steeringcontrol during emergency stops by keepingthe brakes from locking.
This lamp momentarily illuminateswhen you turn the ignition on. Ifthe light does not illuminate duringstart up, remains on or flashes, the systemmay be disabled. Have the system checkedby an authorized dealer. If the anti-lock brakesystem is disabled, normal braking is stilleffective.
If the brake warning lampilluminates when you release theparking brake, have the systemchecked by an authorized dealer.
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HINTS ON DRIVING WITH ANTI-
LOCK BRAKES
The anti-lock braking system does noteliminate the risks when:
•You drive too closely to the vehicle infront of you.
•Your vehicle is hydroplaning.
•You take corners too fast.
•The road surface is poor.
Note: If the system activates, the brakepedal may pulse and may travel further. Maintain pressure on the brake pedal. Youmay also hear a noise from the system. Thisis normal.
ELECTRIC PARKING BRAKE
WARNING
Always set the parking brake and leaveyour vehicle with the transmission inpark (P).
Note:When you apply the electric parkingbrake in certain conditions, for example ona steep hill, the electric parking brake mayreapply the brakes within three to tenminutes. As a result, you may notice variousnoises when you apply and release theelectric parking brake. This is normal and nocause for concern.
The electric parking brake replaces theconventional handbrake. The operatingswitch is on the instrument panel to the leftof the steering wheel.
Applying the electric parking brake
WARNING
The brake system warning lamp willflash when applying the electricparking brake. If the brake system warninglamp continues to flash there could be aproblem with your electric parking brake.Have your vehicle checked as soon aspossible.
Note:The brake system warning lampilluminates for 10 seconds if you switch theignition off after you apply the electricparking brake, or you apply the electricparking brake after you switch the ignitionoff.
Note:The electric parking brake will notautomatically apply. You must apply theelectric parking brake using the electricparking brake switch.
Pull the switch to apply the electric parkingbrake.
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WARNINGS
Vehicle modifications involving brakingsystem, aftermarket roof racks,suspension, steering system, tireconstruction and wheel and tire size maychange the handling characteristics of yourvehicle and may adversely affect theperformance of the electronic stability controlsystem. In addition, installing any stereoloudspeakers may interfere with andadversely affect the electronic stabilitycontrol system. Install any aftermarket stereoloudspeaker as far as possible from the frontcenter console, the tunnel, and the frontseats in order to minimize the risk ofinterfering with the electronic stability controlsensors. Reducing the effectiveness of theelectronic stability control system could leadto an increased risk of loss of vehicle control,vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.
WARNINGS
Remember that even advancedtechnology cannot defy the laws ofphysics. It’s always possible to lose controlof a vehicle due to inappropriate driver inputfor the conditions. Aggressive driving on anyroad condition can cause you to lose controlof your vehicle increasing the risk of personalinjury or property damage. Activation of theelectronic stability control system is anindication that at least some of the tires haveexceeded their ability to grip the road; thiscould reduce the operator’s ability to controlthe vehicle potentially resulting in a loss ofvehicle control, vehicle rollover, personalinjury and death. If your electronic stabilitycontrol system activates, SLOW DOWN.
The system automatically turns on each timeyou switch the ignition on.
If a fault occurs in either the stability controlor the traction control system, you mayexperience the following conditions:
•The stability and traction control lightilluminates steadily.
•The stability control and traction controlsystems do not enhance your vehicle'sability to maintain traction of the wheels.
If a driving condition activates either thestability control or the traction control systemyou may experience the following conditions:
•The stability and traction control lightflashes.
•Your vehicle slows down.
•Reduced engine power.
•A vibration in the brake pedal.
•The brake pedal is stiffer than usual.
•If the driving condition is severe and yourfoot is not on the brake, the brake pedalmay move as the system applies higherbrake force.
The stability control system has severalfeatures built into it to help you maintaincontrol of your vehicle:
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If the transmission is in neutral (N), the sidesensing system provides visual distanceindication only when your vehicle is movingbelow a speed of 5 mph (8 km/h) and thereis a front or rear parking aid obstacledetected, and the side obstacle is within24 in (60 cm) from the side of your vehicle.When you stop your vehicle the visualdistance indication stops after four seconds.
If the side sensing system is not available,the side distance indicator blocks do notappear.
The side sensing system is not availableunder the following condition:
•If you switch the traction control systemoff.
The side sensing system may not beavailable until you have driven approximatelythe length of your vehicle in order for thesystem to reinitialize if:
•You switch the ignition on, off and backon.
•Your vehicle remains stationary for overtwo minutes.
•The anti-lock brake system is activated.
•The traction control system is activated.
•When the steering wheel angleinformation is not available, the sidesensing system is not available. Thevehicle must be driven at least 492 ft(150 m) above 19 mph (30 km/h) torecover the steering wheel angleinformation.
ACTIVE PARK ASSIST (If Equipped)
Parallel Parking, PerpendicularParking, Parallel Park Out Assist
WARNINGS
You must remain in your vehicle whenthe system turns on. At all times, youare responsible for controlling your vehicle,supervising the system and intervening, ifrequired. Failure to take care may result inthe loss of control of your vehicle, seriouspersonal injury or death.
The sensors may not detect objects inheavy rain or other conditions thatcause interference.
WARNINGS
Active park assist does not apply thebrakes under any circumstances.
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.
Note:Active Park Assist is a multi-stepprocess and may require you to shift yourtransmission multiple times. Follow theon-screen instructions until you complete theparking process.
Note:The Blind Spot Information Systemdoes not detect traffic alongside or behindyour vehicle during an Active Park Assistmaneuver.
The system detects an available parallel orperpendicular parking space andautomatically steers your vehicle into thespace (hands-free) while you control theaccelerator, gearshift and brakes. The systemvisually and audibly guides you to park yourvehicle.
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If you are uncomfortable with the proximityto any vehicle or object, you may choose tooverride the system by grabbing the steeringwheel or by pressing the button.
Parallel Park Out Assist automatically steersyour vehicle out of a parallel parking space(hands-free) while you control theaccelerator, gearshift and brakes. The systemvisually and audibly guides you to entertraffic.
The system may not correctly operate in anyof the following conditions:
•You use a spare tire or a tire significantlyworn more than the other tires.
•One or more tires are improperly inflated.
•You try to park on a tight curve.
•Something passes between the frontbumper and the parking space. Forexample, a pedestrian or cyclist.
•The edge of the neighboring parkedvehicle is high off the ground. Forexample, a bus, tow truck or flatbedtruck.
•The weather conditions are poor. Forexample, during heavy rain, snow or fog.
Note: Keep the sensors on the bumper orfascia free from snow, ice and largeaccumulations of dirt. Covered sensors canaffect the system's accuracy. Do not cleanthe sensors with sharp objects.
Note:The sensors may not detect objectswith surfaces that absorb ultrasonic wavesor cause ultrasonic interference. Forexample, motorcycle exhaust, truck airbrakes or horns.
Note:Following a change in tire size, thesystem must recalibrate and operation maybe impaired for a short time.
Do not use the system if:
•You have attached a foreign object closeto the sensors on the front or rear of yourvehicle. For example, a bike rack ortrailer.
•You attach an overhanging object to theroof. For example, a surfboard.
•A foreign object damages or obstructsthe front or rear bumper or side sensors.
•The correct tire size is not in use on yourvehicle. For example, a mini-spare tire.
Using Active Park Assist - Parallel Parking
Press the Active Park Assist buttononce to search for a parallelparking space.
When driving at a speed less than 22 mph(35 km/h), the system automatically scansboth sides of your vehicle for an availableparking space. The system displays amessage and a corresponding graphic toindicate it is searching for a parking space.Use the direction indicator to selectsearching either to the left-hand side orright-hand side of your vehicle.
Note:If the direction indicators are not used,the system defaults to the passenger sideof your vehicle.
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Note:You can also switch the system onafter you have already driven partially orcompletely past a parking space. Press theActive Park Assist button and the systeminforms you if you have recently passed asuitable parking space.
When the system finds a suitable space, itdisplays a message and a tone sounds. Stopyour vehicle and follow the instructions onthe screen. If your vehicle is moving veryslowly, you may need to pull forward a shortdistance before the system is ready to park.
Note:You must observe that the space thesystem selects remains clear of obstructionsat all times during the maneuver.
Note:Drive your vehicle within 5 ft (1.5 m)and as parallel as possible to the othervehicles while passing a parking space.
Note:The system always offers the lastparking space it detects. For example, if yourvehicle detects multiple spaces while youare driving, it offers the last one.
Note:If driven above approximately 22 mph(35 km/h), the system shows a message toalert you to reduce your vehicle speed.
Automatically Steering into a ParkingSpace
Note:If your vehicle speed exceedsapproximately 6 mph (10 km/h) or youinterrupt the maneuver, the system switchesoff and you need to take full control of yourvehicle.
When you shift the transmission into reverse(R), with your hands off the steering wheeland nothing obstructing its movement, yourvehicle steers itself into the space(hands-free). The system displays instructionsto move your vehicle backward and forwardin the space.
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The system determines the clearance to thefront and rear of your vehicle andautomatically steers your vehicle out of aparallel parking space (hands-free) while youcontrol the accelerator, gearshift and brakes.The system visually and audibly guides youto enter traffic.
After the system directs your vehicle pastthe adjacent vehicle or object, it guides youto take control of the steering to completethe exit out of the parking space.
Note:If the clearance in front of your vehicleallows easy departure, the Parallel Park OutAssist feature may not be available.
Note:You are responsible for controllingyour vehicle and making sure the path isclear prior to pulling into traffic.
Note:Do not use this system to assist inexiting perpendicular parking spaces.Damages to your vehicle may occur.
Note:If your vehicle speed exceedsapproximately 3 mph (5 km/h) or youinterrupt the maneuver, the system switchesoff and you need to take full control of yourvehicle.
Deactivating the Active Park AssistFeature
You can manually deactivate the system by:
•Pressing the Active Park Assist buttonduring an active maneuver.
•Grabbing the steering wheel during anactive maneuver.
•Driving above approximately 22 mph(35 km/h) for 30 seconds while searchingfor a parking space.
•Driving above approximately 6 mph(10 km/h) during an active maneuver.
•Switching the traction control system off.
Certain vehicle conditions may alsodeactivate the system, for example:
•The traction control system activates.
•There is an anti-lock brake systemactivation or failure.
If a problem occurs with the system, awarning message displays accompanied bya tone. Occasional system messages mayoccur in normal operation. For recurring orfrequent system faults, contact an authorizeddealer.
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