2021 FORD BRONCO SPORT Owners Manual

Trailer Towing Connector (If Equipped)
When attaching the trailer wiring connector
to your vehicle, only use a proper fitting
connector that works with the vehicle and
trailer functions.
Note:
Install the water proof protection cap
back onto the trailer towing connector
whenever it is not in use. This helps to
prevent water damage and trailer towing
connector malfunction.
Note: You cannot use a seven-pin trailer
wiring connector for your vehicle and the
trailer lighting equipment. Function
Color
Left direction indicatorand stop lamp
Yellow
Ground (-)
White
Right direction indicatorand stop lamp
Green
Running lights
Brown
Hitches
Do not use a hitch that either clamps onto
the bumper or attaches to the axle.
Distribute the trailer load so 10-15% of the
total trailer weight is on the tongue. Safety Chains
Note:
Never attach safety chains to the
bumper.
Always connect the safety chains to the
hook retainers of your vehicle hitch.
To connect the trailer ’s safety chains, cross
them under the trailer tongue and allow
enough slack for turning tight corners. Do
not allow the chains to drag on the ground.
Trailer Brakes WARNING:
Do not connect a
trailer's hydraulic brake system directly
to your vehicle's brake system. Your
vehicle may not have enough braking
power and your chances of having a
collision greatly increase.
Electric brakes and manual, automatic or
surge-type trailer brakes are safe if you
install them properly and adjust them to
the manufacturer's specifications. The
trailer brakes must meet local and federal
regulations.
The rating for the tow vehicle's braking
system operation is at the gross vehicle
weight rating, not the gross combined
weight rating.
Separate functioning brake systems
are required for safe control of towed
vehicles and trailers weighing more
than 1500 lb (680 kg) when loaded.
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Trailer Lamps
WARNING: Never connect any
trailer lamp wiring to the vehicle's tail
lamp wiring; this may damage the
electrical system resulting in fire. Contact
your authorized dealer as soon as
possible for assistance in proper trailer
tow wiring installation. Additional
electrical equipment may be required.
Trailer lamps are required on most towed
vehicles. Make sure all running lights, brake
lights, turn signals and hazard lights are
working.
Before Towing a Trailer
Practice turning, stopping and backing up
to get the feel of your vehicle-trailer
combination before starting on a trip.
When turning, make wider turns so the
trailer wheels clear curbs and other
obstacles.
When Towing a Trailer
• Do not drive faster than
70 mph
(113 km/h) during the first 500 mi
(800 km).
• Do not make full-throttle starts.
• Check your hitch, electrical connections
and trailer wheel lug nuts thoroughly
after you have traveled 50 mi (80 km).
• When stopped in congested or heavy
traffic during hot weather, place the
transmission in park (P) to aid engine
and transmission cooling and to help
A/C performance.
• Turn off the speed control with heavy
loads or in hilly terrain. The speed
control may turn off automatically
when you are towing on long, steep
grades. •
Shift to a lower gear when driving down
a long or steep hill. Do not apply the
brakes continuously, as they may
overheat and become less effective.
• If your transmission is equipped with a
Grade Assist or Tow/Haul feature, use
this feature when towing. This provides
engine braking and helps eliminate
excessive transmission shifting for
optimum fuel economy and
transmission cooling.
• Allow more distance for stopping with
a trailer attached. Anticipate stops and
brake gradually.
• Avoid parking on a grade. However, if
you must park on a grade:
1. Turn the steering wheel to point your vehicle tires away from traffic flow.
2. Set your vehicle parking brake.
3. Place the automatic transmission in park (P).
4. Place wheel chocks in front and back of the trailer wheels. Chocks are not
included with your vehicle.
Launching or Retrieving a Boat or
Personal Watercraft (PWC)
Note: Disconnect the wiring to the trailer
before
backing the trailer into the water.
Note: Reconnect the wiring to the trailer
after
removing the trailer from the water.
When backing down a ramp during boat
launching or retrieval:
• Do not allow the static water level to
rise above the bottom edge of the rear
bumper.
• Do not allow waves to break higher
than
6 in (15 cm) above the bottom
edge of the rear bumper.
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Exceeding these limits may allow water to
enter vehicle components:
•
Causing internal damage to the
components.
• Affecting driveability, emissions, and
reliability.
Replace the rear axle lubricant anytime
the rear axle has been submerged in water.
Water may have contaminated the rear
axle lubricant, which is not normally
checked or changed unless a leak is
suspected or other axle repair is required.
TOWING THE VEHICLE ON
FOUR WHEELS
Emergency Towing WARNING: If your vehicle has a
steering wheel lock make sure the
ignition is in the accessory or on position
when being towed.
If your vehicle becomes inoperable without
access to wheel dollies or a vehicle
transport trailer, it can be flat-towed with
all wheels on the ground, regardless of the
powertrain and transmission configuration,
under the following conditions:
• Your vehicle is facing forward for
towing in a forward direction.
• Refer to the Manual Park Release
procedure. See
Automatic
Transmission (page 166). Failing to
do so could result in damage to the
transmission.
• Maximum speed is 35 mph (56 km/h).
• Maximum distance is
50 mi (80 km).
Note: If you are unsure of the vehicle ’s
configuration, contact an authorized dealer. Recreational Towing - Front-Wheel
Drive Vehicles
(If Equipped)
You cannot recreational tow your vehicle
with all wheels on the ground because
vehicle or transmission damage could
occur. Place the front wheels on a
two-wheel tow dolly. If you are using a tow
dolly, follow the instructions specified by
the equipment provider.
Recreational Towing - Rear-Wheel
Drive Vehicles
(If Equipped)
You cannot recreational tow your vehicle
with all wheels on the ground because
vehicle or transmission damage could
occur. We recommend towing your vehicle
with all four wheels off the ground, such
as when using a car-hauling trailer.
Otherwise, you cannot recreational tow
your vehicle.
Recreational Towing - All-Wheel
and Four-Wheel Drive Vehicles
(If
Equipped)
You cannot recreational tow your vehicle
with all wheels on the ground because
vehicle or transmission damage could
occur. We recommend towing your vehicle
with all four wheels off the ground, such
as when using a car-hauling trailer.
Otherwise, you cannot recreational tow
your vehicle.
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OFF-ROAD DRIVING
What Is Off-Road Driving
Off-road driving is driving your vehicle on
unsurfaced roads or trails, made from dirt,
rocks, sand and mud.
Your vehicle has been designed and
equipped to explore those places where
the road cannot take you, whether you
choose a forest trail or the open desert.
Off-Road Driving Precautions
WARNING: If you continue to drive
your vehicle when the engine is
overheating, the engine could stop
without warning. Failure to follow this
instruction could result in the loss of
control of your vehicle.
Before going off-road, consult with your
local governmental agencies to determine
designated off-road trails and recreation
areas. Also, be sure to understand any
off-road vehicle registration requirements
for the area in which you plan on driving.
Tread Lightly is an educational program
designed to increase public awareness of
land-use regulations and responsibilities
in our nation ’s wilderness areas. The U.S.
Forest Service and Bureau of Land
Management is encouraging you to help
preserve our national forest and other
public and private lands by treading lightly.
Before taking your vehicle off-road, do a
basic vehicle inspection to make sure that
the vehicle is in top working condition. Before you venture off road, have a clear
mental picture of the underside of your
vehicle. Learn the location of any low
hanging items and any skid plates that may
be on the vehicle. You can avoid snagging
them on rocks and other obstacles if you
know where they are.
Memorizing some basic dimensions helps
you confidently deal with off-road
obstacles. Get to know your vehicle
’s
height and width, its lowest point, its
wading depth and angles. Familiarize
yourself with your vehicle ’s on-board
technology features.
We recommend driving at least two
vehicles when driving off-road. The buddy
system helps make sure that help is close
at hand should a vehicle become stuck or
damaged.
We recommend taking supplies such as a
first aid kit, supply of water, tow strap and
cell or satellite phone with you any time
you plan an off-road excursion.
Basic Off-Road Driving Techniques
Grip the steering wheel with your thumbs
on the outside of the rim. This reduces the
risk of injury due to abrupt steering wheel
motions that occur when negotiating rough
terrain.
Control your throttle, brake and steering
inputs in a smooth manner. Sudden inputs
to the controls can cause a loss of traction
for the vehicle, especially when on sloped
terrain or crossing obstacles such as rocks
or logs.
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Look ahead on your route noting upcoming
obstacles, surface texture or color changes
or any other factors which may indicate a
change in available traction. Adjust the
vehicle speed and route to avoid a loss in
traction. Conditions can change causing
the course to vary day to day. Mark
obstacles with GPS markers to avoid
potential vehicle damage. Where
necessary, get out of your vehicle and
check the terrain.
When driving off-road, if the front or rear
suspension is bottoming-out or excessive
contact with the skid-plates is happening,
reduce the vehicle's speed to avoid
potential damage to your vehicle.
If you are driving in a dusty area, be sure to
leave ample distance between your vehicle
and any other vehicles to allow for
adequate vision.
When driving off-road verify that your
wipers and washers are working properly
and reduce your speed for better visibility.
When driving in desert conditions, we
recommend driving with your headlamps
on to help other drivers easily see you.
When convoying with other vehicles, we
recommend that communication is used,
and the lead vehicle notify other vehicles
of upcoming obstacles.
Keep available ground clearance in mind
and pick a route that minimizes the risk of
catching the underside of the vehicle on
an obstacle.
When negotiating low speed obstacles,
applying light brake pressure in conjunction
with the throttle allows you to negotiate
the obstacle in a more controlled manner.
Driving off-road requires a high amount of
concentration. Even if your local law does
not prohibit drinking alcohol when driving
off-road we do not recommend it.
Driving Off-Road
Driving In Snow and Ice WARNING: If you are driving in
slippery conditions that require tire
chains or cables, then it is critical that
you drive cautiously. Keep speeds down,
allow for longer stopping distances and
avoid aggressive steering to reduce the
chances of a loss of vehicle control
which can lead to serious injury or death.
If the rear end of your vehicle slides while
cornering, steer in the direction of the
slide until you regain control of your
vehicle.
Four-wheel drive vehicles have advantages
over two-wheel drive vehicles in snow and
ice but can skid like any other vehicle. If
your vehicle slides when driving on snowy
or icy roads, turn the steering wheel in the
direction of the slide until you regain
control. Avoid sudden applications of
power and quick changes of direction on
snow and ice. Slowly and steadily apply
the accelerator when starting from a full
stop. Avoid sudden braking. WARNING:
Do not become
overconfident in the ability of four-wheel
drive vehicles. Although a four-wheel
drive vehicle may accelerate better than
a two-wheel drive vehicle in low traction
situations, it won't stop any faster than
two-wheel drive vehicles. Always drive
at a safe speed.
Make sure you allow sufficient distance
between your vehicle and other vehicles
for stopping.
In emergency stopping situations, do not
pump the brake pedal, apply the brake
firmly.
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Driving In Sand
When driving over sand, try to keep all four
wheels on the most solid area of the trail.
Drive through the terrain without varying
vehicle speed. Apply the accelerator and
avoid excessive wheel slip.
When driving at slow speeds in deep sand
under high ambient temperatures, use low
(L) mode, or shift to a lower gear when
possible. Select Low (L) mode or select a
lower gear to maximize the engine and
transmission cooling capability. See
Transmission (page 166).
Use the vehicle's momentum to maintain
forward motion in sand. Avoid coming to
a stop on steep sand slopes as the vehicle
may not be able to continue forward after
it has stopped.
Driving In Mud
Be cautious of sudden changes in vehicle
speed or direction when you are driving in
mud.
Even four-wheel drive vehicles can lose
traction in slick mud. If your vehicle does
slide, steer in the direction of the slide until
you regain control of your vehicle.
After driving through mud, clean off residue
stuck to rotating driveshafts and tires.
Excess mud stuck on tires and rotating
driveshafts can cause an imbalance that
could damage drive components.
Note: The vehicle brakes are less effective
when wet or muddy.
Driving Over Rocks and Gravel
Gravel is a constantly changing, low-grip
surface. Driving at slow speeds on gravel
reduces the risk of losing traction when you
stop, accelerate or turn a corner.
When approaching large rocks, position
the vehicle so that the tires pass over the
largest obstacle. Note:
Never attempt to straddle a rock that
is large enough to strike your axles or
undercarriage.
Note: Never attempt to drive over a rock
which is large enough to contact the door
sills.
If you lose traction on your wheels facing
uphill, stop and choose a more suitable
route.
Leave a generous gap between your
vehicle and other vehicles to minimize the
risk of damage from flying gravel. Avoid
dust clouds as they reduce visibility.
Before navigating on uneven ground,
secure anything inside the vehicle. If
possible, remove any roof-rack items. Use
the lowest gear possible and approach the
obstacle at a slow speed.
If your vehicle begins to slide down a slope,
steer downhill and gently apply the
throttle. If you lose traction on your uphill
wheels, stop immediately and choose a
more suitable route.
Approach logs, rocky steps or ditches
diagonally. Keep at least three wheels on
the ground at all times.
Climbing A Hill WARNING:
Extreme care should
be used when steering the vehicle in
reverse down a slope so as not to cause
the vehicle to swerve out of control.
Although natural obstacles can make it
necessary to travel diagonally up or down
a hill or steep incline, try to drive straight
up or straight down.
Note: Avoid turning on steep slopes or hills.
A danger lies in losing traction, slipping
sideways and possible vehicle roll over.
Whenever driving on a hill, first determine
the route you can use.
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When climbing a steep slope or hill, start
in a lower gear rather than downshifting to
a lower gear from a higher gear. This
reduces strain on the engine and the
possibility of stalling.
If your vehicle stalls, do not try to turn
around because this could cause your
vehicle to roll over. It is better to reverse
back to a safe location.
Do not drive over the crest of a hill without
seeing what conditions are on the other
side. Do not drive in reverse over a hill
without the aid of an observer.
If the vehicle is unable to make it up the
hill, do not attempt to turn back down the
slope.
Apply the accelerator just enough for the
wheels to climb the hill.
Note:
Too much acceleration can cause
the tires to slip, spin or lose traction,
resulting in loss of vehicle control.
Descending A Hill:
• Use the same gear you would use to
climb the hill.
• Do not descend in neutral.
• Disengage overdrive.
• Avoid sudden and excessive braking.
Note: The front wheels have to be turning
in order to steer your vehicle.
When descending a steep hill in a manual
transmission vehicle do not leave the
vehicle in gear with the clutch depressed.
This could cause damage to your driveline.
Driving Through Water WARNING: Do not attempt to
cross a deep, fast flowing body of water.
Failure to follow this instruction could
result in the loss of control of your
vehicle, personal injury or death. As the water depth increases, you must
reduce your vehicle speed to avoid
potential vehicle damage.
The key to a safe crossing is the water
depth, current and bottom of the water's
condition. On soft bottoms, the vehicle
sinks in, effectively increasing the water
level on the vehicle. Make sure to consider
this when determining the depth of water.
Determine the depth and speed of the
current before attempting a water crossing.
Be aware that obstacles and debris may
be beneath the water
’s surface.
Note: Cross flowing water at an angle
heading slightly upstream.
Note: You should tread lightly and avoid
damage to the environment.
Drive slow when crossing water. Proceed
with a constant slow speed lightly pressing
on the accelerator.
Drive through the water very slowly when
entering, then build up momentum. Keep
your vehicle moving at a steady pace.
Note: Do not try to accelerate through the
water crossing.
When driving too fast in water or through
deep water, the engine, transmission,
transfer case, axles, electrical components
or vehicle interior could ingest water. Water
can cause permanent damage that may
not be covered by your vehicle warranty.
See
Driving Through Water Limitations
(page 246).
Note: Failure to follow the recommended
speeds can result in vehicle damage.
Never stop or shut a vehicle off when
crossing deep water unless your vehicle
ingested water into the engine air intake.
If the engine stalls, do not attempt to
restart it.
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Ease off the accelerator as you reach the
other side to diminish the front wave. Apply
the accelerator slowly and as necessary
to climb out of the other side.
Muddy waters can reduce the cooling
system effectiveness by depositing debris
into the radiator.
Extra care must be taken crossing any type
of water. Do not drive into water unless
necessary. You should only drive through
areas that are designated and approved.
High currents even in shallow water can
wash the dirt out from around your tires or
push your vehicle across slippery rocks or
surfaces.
Never attempt to cross flowing water that
is deeper than your vehicles ground
clearance. Even in low currents your
vehicles body surface area can be pushed
downstream and out of control.
Do not cross any body of water that is fast
flowing and rising, wait for the flow rate to
reduce.
Determine exit points that are downstream
of your entry point to allow for drifting.
If there are other vehicles ahead, wait until
they
’ve left the water. Unsettled water can
make a safe passage more challenging.
Know your vehicle ’s abilities and be able
to recover it if something goes wrong.
Keep the doors fully closed during a water
crossing.
Vehicles used to traverse water regularly
should be periodically inspected for signs
of water ingestion in all of the vehicle's
fluids. If water is found inside your vehicle
fluids, service your vehicle or see an
authorized dealer.
After driving through water and as soon as
it is safe to do so, check the brakes, horn,
lights, and steering wheel to make sure
everything is still in working order. Avoid Getting High-Centered
Always keep available ground clearance
in mind and pick a route that minimizes the
risk of catching the underside of the vehicle
on an obstacle and getting high-centered.
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle
WARNING: Do not spin the wheels
at over 34 mph (55 km/h). The tires may
fail and injure a passenger or bystander.
Recovery hooks are mounted to the
vehicle's structure and are used to pull out
the vehicle from a surface or location when
stuck. Recover your vehicle using various
towing apparatus attached to your
recovery hook such as winch, open hook,
or strap.
Note: Do not use recovery hooks to
recreationally tow your vehicle. See Towing
the Vehicle on Four Wheels
(page 240).
If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow,
you may rock it out by shifting between
forward and reverse gears, stopping
between shifts in a steady pattern. Press
the accelerator in each gear.
Note: Do not rock your vehicle if the engine
is not at normal operating temperature
damage to the transmission may occur.
Note: Do not rock your vehicle for more
than a minute damage to the transmission
and tires may occur or the engine may
overheat.
If you are unable to free your vehicle call
roadside assistance. See
Roadside
Assistance (page 250).
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