HYBRID VEHICLE OPERATION
This hybrid vehicle combines electric and
gasoline propulsion to provide
breakthrough performance and improved
efficiency.
Familiarizing yourself with these unique
characteristics will provide an optimal
driving experience from your new vehicle.
Note:
You may notice higher engine speeds
upon start-up. This temporary condition is
normal and necessary to heat up the cabin
and minimize emissions.
Starting: When you start your vehicle, a
green ready indicator light will
appear in the lower right portion
of the instrument cluster and a ready to
drive message will appear in the middle of
the left cluster screen, letting you know
that your vehicle is ready for driving.
The engine may not start because this
vehicle is equipped with silent key start.
This fuel saving feature allows your vehicle
to be ready –to–drive without requiring the
gas engine to be running. This indicator will
remain on while your vehicle is on, whether
the engine is running or not to indicate your
vehicle is capable of movement (using its
electric motor, engine, or both). Typically,
the engine will not start unless the vehicle
is cold, a climate control change is
requested, or the accelerator is pressed.
Driving:
The gas engine automatically starts and
stops to provide power when needed and
to save fuel when not needed. While
coasting at low speeds, coming to a stop,
or standing, the gas engine normally shuts
down and your vehicle operates in
electric-only mode. Conditions that may cause the engine to
start up or remain running include:
•
Considerable vehicle acceleration.
• Vehicle speed above 85 mph
(137 km/h). However, the maximum
speed for electric-only operation may
be lower while driving in hot
temperatures or on hilly terrain.
• Ascending a hill.
• Charge level of high voltage battery is
low.
• Very high or low outside temperature
(to provide system cooling or heating).
• Engine not warm enough to provide
passenger requested cabin
temperature.
Stopping:
The gas engine may shut off to conserve
fuel as you come to a stop. Restarting your
vehicle is not required. Simply step on the
accelerator when you are ready to drive.
Transmission Operation:
Due to the technologically advanced,
electronically-controlled continuously
variable transaxle, you will not feel shift
changes like those of a non-hybrid vehicle.
Note: Since engine speed is controlled by
the transmission, it may seem elevated at
times. This is normal hybrid operation and
helps deliver fuel efficiency and
performance.
Neutral:
We recommend that you do not idle the
vehicle in neutral (N) for an extended
period of time because this will discharge
your high voltage battery, shut off your air
conditioning and heating, and decrease
fuel economy. The engine will not start or
stop, and cannot provide power to the
hybrid system in neutral (N).
148
Fusion Energi (CC7) Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)/Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201805, First-Printing Unique Driving CharacteristicsE144692
Note:
An oil change is not required but gives
you the option of not running a low engine
use cycle. Resetting the oil life monitoring
system will suspend the low engine use
mode.
Fuel Freshness
See Fuel Quality (page 155).
ECOSELECT
(If Equipped)
EcoSelect is a drive mode for non plug-in
vehicles designed to offer the best possible
fuel economy with tradeoffs in vehicle
performance and comfort. To switch EcoSelect on, press
the
ECO button.
A graphic displays on your information
display when EcoSelect is on.
Your vehicle will remember the last
selected mode whenever you start your
vehicle.
EcoSelect allows your vehicle to operate
more efficiently. You will notice:
• Less aggressive cooling.
• Softer acceleration.
• Increased deceleration when coasting.
• Changes in engine behavior.
• ECO cruise control activation.
HYBRID VEHICLE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Answer
Question
The high voltage battery is electrically isol-ated from the rest of the vehicle when the
key is off. When you switch the key on, high voltage contactors inside the battery are
closed to make the electricity available to the motor and generator and enable the
vehicle to drive. The clicks are the sound of these contactors as they close and open during start up and shut down.
What are the series of clicks from the cargo
area when I first turn the key in the ignition?
The vehicle's computer will determine if an
engine start is required at key-on. Silent keystart will start the engine if it is necessaryfor cabin heating, windshield defrost, or if the outside temperature is low.
Why does the engine sometimes start at
key-on?
There are several reasons the engine stayson for an extended amount of time when
you first start it. One common reason is to
make sure that the emissions components are warm enough to minimize tailpipe
emissions. As the climate gets cooler, this engine-on time is extended.
Why does it take a long time before the
engine shuts down?
152
Fusion Energi (CC7) Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)/Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201805, First-Printing Unique Driving CharacteristicsE198654
Answer
Question
The engine is required to turn on above thisspeed to protect the transmission hard- ware.
Why does my engine never shut down
above 85 mph (137 km/h)
In order to make sure that the climate
control system can begin heating the cabin or defrosting the windshield as soon as a driver requests it, the engine coolant
temperature has to be kept sufficiently hot. Keeping the engine on is required to main- tain the correct coolant temperature.
Why does my engine stay on when it is
extremely cold outside?
Your vehicle's engine and transmission aredesigned to deliver the power you need atthe most efficient engine speed. This may be higher than expected during heavy
accelerations, and may fluctuate when
driving at a steady speed. These are charac- teristics of the Atkinson engine cycle and the transmission technology that helpmaximize your hybrid's fuel economy.
Why does my engine rev up so high some-
times when I accelerate?
The fan noise comes from a fan located
next to the high voltage battery pack. This fan turns on when the battery requires
cooling air. The fan speed, and associated noise level, will change according to theamount of cooling required to maintain
good performance. Maintaining the battery temperature at optimal conditions also
prolongs the 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 year under normal operating conditions.
What is the engine oil change service
interval?
Your hybrid vehicle can use E15 (15%
ethanol, 85% gasoline) fuel, but you may notice slightly reduced fuel economy
because ethanol contains less energy per
gallon than gasoline. Your hybrid vehicle is not designed to use E85 (85% ethanol).
Can I put E15 or E85 in my vehicle, and how
will it affect my fuel economy?
153
Fusion Energi (CC7) Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)/Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201805, First-Printing Unique Driving Characteristics
Park Brake Application
Automatic parking brake application and
cancellation occurs if:
•
You unbuckle the seatbelt and open
the door after you stop the vehicle.
• You hold the vehicle at a stop
continuously for more than three
minutes.
Hilly Condition Usage
You should select a lower gear when the
system is active in situations such as
prolonged downhill driving on steep
grades, for example in mountainous areas.
The system needs additional engine
braking in these situations to reduce the
load on the vehicle ’s regular brake system
to prevent it from overheating.
Note: An audible alarm sounds and the
system shuts down if it applies brakes for
an extended period of time. This allows the
brakes to cool. The system functions
normally again after the brakes cool.
Switching Adaptive Cruise Control
Off Press and release the button
when the system is in standby
mode, or switch the ignition off.
Note: You erase the set speed and gap
setting when you switch the system off.
Detection Issues WARNING: On rare occasions,
detection issues can occur due to the road
infrastructures, for example bridges,
tunnels and safety barriers. In these cases,
the system may brake late or
unexpectedly. At all times, you are
responsible for controlling your vehicle,
supervising the system and intervening, if
required. WARNING:
If the system
malfunctions, have your vehicle checked
as soon as possible.
The radar sensor has a limited field of view.
It may not detect vehicles at all or detect
a vehicle later than expected in some
situations. The lead vehicle graphic does
not illuminate if the system does not
detect a vehicle in front of you. 203
Fusion Energi (CC7) Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)/Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201805, First-Printing Cruise ControlE265297 E71621
Note:
The system may not correctly operate
when towing a trailer. For vehicles with a
trailer tow module and tow bar approved
by us, the system turns off when you attach
a trailer. For vehicles with an aftermarket
trailer tow module or tow bar, we
recommend that you switch the system off
when you attach a trailer.
To permanently switch the system off,
contact an authorized dealer.
STEERING
Electric Power Steering WARNING: 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. WARNING: 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.
216
Fusion Energi (CC7) Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)/Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201805, First-Printing Driving Aids
When the engine is cold, check the
concentration and level of the coolant at
the intervals listed in the scheduled
maintenance information. See Scheduled
Maintenance (page 470).
Note: Make sure that the coolant level is
between the
MIN and the MAX marks on
the coolant reservoir.
Note: Coolant expands when it is hot. The
level may extend beyond the
MAX mark.
Maintain coolant concentration within
48% to 50%, which equates to a freeze
point between -30°F (-34°C) and -34°F
(-37°C). Coolant concentration should be
checked using a refractometer. We do not
recommend the use of hydrometers or
coolant test strips for measuring coolant
concentration.
Adding Coolant WARNING:
Do not add engine
coolant when the engine is hot. Failure to
follow this instruction could result in
personal injury. WARNING:
Never remove the
coolant reservoir cap when the engine is
running or hot.
Note: Automotive fluids are not
interchangeable. Do not use coolant or
windshield washer fluid outside of its
specified function and vehicle location.
Note: Do not use stop leak pellets, cooling
system sealants, or non-specified additives
as they can cause damage to the engine
cooling or heating systems. Resulting
component damage may not be covered by
the vehicle Warranty. It is very important to use prediluted
coolant approved to the correct
specification in order to avoid plugging the
small passageways in the engine cooling
system. See
Capacities and
Specifications (page 313). Do not mix
different colors or types of coolant in your
vehicle. Mixing of engine coolants or using
an incorrect coolant may harm the engine
or cooling system components and may
not be covered by the vehicle Warranty.
Note: If prediluted coolant is not available,
use the approved concentrated coolant
diluting it to 50/50 with distilled water. See
Capacities and Specifications (page
309).
Using water that has not been deionized
may contribute to deposit formation,
corrosion and plugging of the small cooling
system passageways.
Note: Coolants marketed for all makes and
models may not be approved to Ford
specifications and may cause damage to
the cooling system. Resulting component
damage may not be covered by the vehicle
Warranty.
If the coolant level is at or below the
minimum mark, add prediluted coolant
immediately.
To top up the coolant level do the
following:
1. Unscrew the cap slowly. Any pressure escapes as you unscrew the cap.
2. Add prediluted coolant approved to the correct specification. See
Capacities and Specifications (page
309
).
3. Add enough prediluted coolant to reach the correct level.
4. Replace the coolant reservoir cap, turn
it clockwise until you feel a strong
resistance.
260
Fusion Energi (CC7) Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)/Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201805, First-Printing Maintenance
5. Check the coolant level in the coolant
reservoir the next few times you drive
your vehicle. If necessary, add enough
prediluted engine coolant to bring the
coolant level to the correct level.
If you have to add more than 1.1 qt (1 L) of
engine coolant per month, have your
vehicle checked as soon as possible.
Operating an engine with a low level of
coolant can result in engine overheating
and possible engine damage.
Note: During normal vehicle operation, the
coolant may change color from orange to
pink or light red. As long as the coolant is
clear and uncontaminated, this color change
does not indicate the coolant has degraded
nor does it require the coolant to be drained,
the system to be flushed, or the coolant to
be replaced.
In case of emergency, you can add a large
amount of water without engine coolant
in order to reach a vehicle service location.
In this instance, qualified personnel:
1. Must drain the cooling system.
2. Chemically clean the cooling system.
3. Refill with prediluted coolant as soon as possible.
Water alone, without coolant, can cause
engine damage from corrosion,
overheating or freezing.
Do not use the following as a coolant
substitute:
• Alcohol.
• Methanol.
• Brine.
• Any coolant mixed with alcohol or
methanol antifreeze.
Alcohol and other liquids can cause engine
damage from overheating or freezing. Do not add extra inhibitors or additives to
the coolant. These can be harmful and
compromise the corrosion protection of
the coolant.
Recycled Coolant
We do not recommend the use of recycled
coolant as an approved recycling process
is not yet available.
Dispose of used engine coolant in an
appropriate manner. Follow your
community's regulations and standards
for recycling and disposing of automotive
fluids.
Severe Climates
If you drive in extremely cold climates:
•
It may be necessary to increase the
coolant concentration above 50%.
• A coolant concentration of 60%
provides improved freeze point
protection. Coolant concentrations
above 60% decrease the overheat
protection characteristics of the
coolant and may cause engine
damage.
If you drive in extremely hot climates:
• You can decrease the coolant
concentration to 40%.
• Coolant concentrations below 40%
decrease the freeze and corrosion
protection characteristics of the
coolant and may cause engine
damage.
Vehicles driven year-round in non-extreme
climates should use prediluted coolant for
optimum cooling system and engine
protection.
261
Fusion Energi (CC7) Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)/Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201805, First-Printing Maintenance
Note:
Driving your vehicle without repair
increases the chance of engine damage.
Engine Coolant Temperature
Management (If Equipped) WARNING:
To reduce the risk of
crash and injury, be prepared that the
vehicle speed may reduce and the vehicle
may not be able to accelerate with full
power until the coolant temperature
reduces.
If you tow a trailer with your vehicle, the
engine may temporarily reach a higher
temperature during severe operating
conditions, for example ascending a long
or steep grade in high ambient
temperatures.
At this time, you may notice the coolant
temperature gauge moves toward the red
zone and a message may appear in the
information display.
You may notice a reduction in vehicle
speed caused by reduced engine power in
order to manage the engine coolant
temperature. Your vehicle may enter this
mode if certain high-temperature and
high-load conditions take place. The
amount of speed reduction depends on
vehicle loading, grade and ambient
temperature. If this occurs, there is no need
to pull off the road. You can continue to
drive your vehicle.
The air conditioning may automatically
turn on and off during severe operating
conditions to protect the engine from
overheating. When the coolant
temperature decreases to the normal
operating temperature, the air conditioning
turns on. If the coolant temperature gauge moves
fully into the red zone, or if the coolant
temperature warning or service engine
soon messages appear in your information
display, do the following:
1. Pull off the road as soon as safely
possible and shift the transmission into
park (P).
2. Leave the engine running until the coolant temperature gauge needle
returns to the normal position. If the
temperature does not drop after
several minutes, follow the remaining
steps.
3. Switch the engine off and wait for it to
cool. Check the coolant level.
4. If the coolant level is at or below the minimum mark, add prediluted coolant
immediately.
5. If the coolant level is normal, restart the engine and continue.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID CHECK
Note: Transmission fluid should be checked
by an authorized dealer. If required, fluid
should be added by an authorized dealer.
Have an authorized dealer check and
change the transmission fluid at the
correct service interval. See
Scheduled
Maintenance (page 470). Your
transmission does not consume fluid.
However, the fluid level should be checked
if the transmission is not working properly,
(i.e., if the transmission slips or shifts
slowly) or if you notice some sign of fluid
leakage.
Do not use supplemental transmission
fluid additives, treatments or cleaning
agents. The use of these materials may
affect transmission operation and result
in damage to internal transmission
components.
263
Fusion Energi (CC7) Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)/Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201805, First-Printing Maintenance