2021 FORD ESCAPE warning

Switching Grade Assist On and Off
Press the grade assist button to activate
grade assist. The grade assist lamp
appears in the instrument cluster. Press
the button again to switch it off.
Your vehicle determines the amount of
engine motoring and high-voltage battery
charging. You could notice the engine
speed increasing and decreasing to help
maintain your vehicle speed when
descending a slope.
Grade Assist Indicators
MANUAL PARK RELEASE -
GASOLINE
What Is Manual Park Release
Manual park release is used to move your
transmission from the park (P) position in
the event of an electrical malfunction or
emergency.
Manual Park Release Precautions WARNING: When doing this
procedure, you need to take the
transmission out of park (P) which
means your vehicle can roll freely. To
avoid unwanted vehicle movement,
always fully apply the parking brake prior
to doing this procedure. Use wheels
chocks if appropriate. WARNING:
If the parking brake is
fully released, but the brake warning
lamp remains illuminated, the brakes
may not be working properly. Have your
vehicle checked as soon as possible. WARNING:
Do not drive your
vehicle until you verify that the
stoplamps are working.
Using Manual Park Release
Activating the Manual Park Release
Cable
1. Apply the parking brake. See What Is
the Electric Parking Brake (page 224).
Note: If the vehicle battery is dead, for
example, no electrical power is available,
you could use an external power source to
apply the parking brake. 213
Escape (CTC) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 02-11-2020, enUSA, Edition date: 202011, First-Printing Automatic TransmissionE345122 E307867

2. Locate the manual park release cable
access cover on the lower instrument
panel dash to the bottom left hand
side of the steering column.
3. Using a tool, carefully open the access
cover.
Note: Do not pull the tether until you are in
the driver seat.
4. Switch the ignition on, but do not start
your vehicle.
5. Once in the driver seat, fully press the brake pedal and hold. Do not release.
Pull the orange tether towards the
driver seat until the tether gets locked
in the override position. Then leave the
tether.
6. If done correctly a message should display on the instrument cluster
screen.
Note: Your vehicle is now out of the park
(P) position and is free to roll.
7. With your foot still fully applied on the
brake pedal, disengage the parking
brake. See What Is the Electric
Parking Brake (page 224).
8. Your vehicle remains in neutral (N) for emergency towing purposes.
9. Switch off the ignition.
10. Once safe to do so, and there is no risk that your vehicle will roll,
disconnect the negative (black)
battery cable from the battery.
Note: If the vehicle detects wheel
movement before the battery is
disconnected, the electric parking brake
could apply. Returning Your Vehicle to Normal
Mode
1. Once it is safe to do so, reconnect the
negative (black) battery cable to the
battery.
2. Apply the parking brake. See What Is
the Electric Parking Brake (page 224).
Note: If the vehicle battery is dead, for
example, no electrical power is available,
you could use an external power source to
apply the parking brake.
3. Fully apply the brake pedal and hold. Do not release. Pull the orange tether
outward towards the driver seat to
release it from the override position.
4. The cable will release and retract back
to its original rest position.
5. Stow the manual park release cable tether back inside the instrument panel
dash hole, install the access cover by
pressing it back in position.
6. With your foot fully applied on the brake pedal, start your vehicle. Confirm
that your vehicle is in the park (P)
position and that the instrument
cluster indicates park (P).
7. If the instrument cluster is not displaying the park (P) position or a
message displays on the instrument
cluster screen, make sure you apply the
parking brake before exiting your
vehicle. Contact an authorized dealer
for service.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
AUDIBLE WARNINGS
Transmission Not In Park (P)
Audible Warning
Sounds if you open the driver door before
shifting into park (P).
214
Escape (CTC) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 02-11-2020, enUSA, Edition date: 202011, First-Printing Automatic Transmission

HOW DOES ALL-WHEEL DRIVE
WORK
All-wheel drive uses all four wheels to
power the vehicle. This increases traction,
enabling you to drive over terrain and road
conditions that a conventional two-wheel
drive vehicle cannot. The AWD system
turns on when needed and does not require
input from you.
Note:
The AWD feature gives your vehicle
some limited off-road capabilities in which
driving surfaces are relatively level,
obstruction-free and otherwise similar to
normal on-road driving conditions.
Operating your vehicle in conditions other
than those, could subject the vehicle to
excess stress which might result in damage
which is not covered under your warranty.
ALL-WHEEL DRIVE
PRECAUTIONS 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. WARNING:
Do not become
overconfident in the ability of all-wheel
drive vehicles. Although an all-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. ALL-WHEEL DRIVE
LIMITATIONS
When using a mismatch spare tire on your
vehicle the all-wheel drive system can
become limited in function. To regain full
all-wheel drive capabilities have the
standard wheel replaced.
Different tire sizes between the front and
rear axles can cause system damage, or
disable the all-wheel drive system.
ALL-WHEEL DRIVE DRIVING
HINTS
Emergency Maneuvers
In an unavoidable emergency where a
sudden sharp turn will be made, remember
to avoid over-driving your vehicle, for
example, turn the steering wheel only as
rapidly and as far as required to avoid the
emergency. Apply smooth pressure to the
accelerator pedal or brake pedal as
needed. Avoid abrupt steering,
acceleration and braking changes. Abrupt
changes could increase the risk of vehicle
roll over, loss of vehicle control and
personal injury. Use all available road
surfaces to bring your vehicle under
control.
In the event of an emergency stop, avoid
skidding and do not attempt any sharp
steering wheel movements.
217
Escape (CTC) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 02-11-2020, enUSA, Edition date: 202011, First-Printing All-Wheel Drive
(If Equipped)

Apply just enough power to the wheels to
climb the hill. Too much power will cause
the tires to slip, spin or lose traction, and
you could lose control of your vehicle.
When descending a steep hill, do not
descend the hill in neutral. Avoid sudden
hard braking to keep the front wheels
rolling and to maintain your vehicle's
steering.
Note:
If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes,
apply the brakes steadily. Do not pump the
brakes.
Note: If your vehicle gets stuck driving on
hilly or sloping terrain, it may be rocked out
by shifting between forward and reverse
gears, stopping between shifts in a steady
pattern. Press lightly on the accelerator in
each gear.
Note: Do not rock your vehicle if the engine
is not at normal operating temperature, as
damage to the transmission may occur.
Note: Do not rock your vehicle for more
than a minute, as damage to the
transmission and tires may occur or the
engine may overheat.
Driving on 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.
Avoid sudden applications of power and
quick changes of direction on snow and
ice. Apply the accelerator slowly and
steadily when starting from a full stop.
Avoid sudden braking. Although an
all-wheel drive vehicle accelerates better
than a two-wheel drive vehicle in snow and
ice, it cannot stop any faster as braking
occurs at all four wheels. Do not become
overconfident of the road conditions.
Make sure that you allow sufficient
distance between your vehicle and other
vehicles for stopping. On ice and snow, you
should drive more slowly than usual. In
emergency stopping situations, steadily
apply the brake. Your vehicle has a four
wheel anti-lock brake system, do not pump
the brake pedal.
See Anti-Lock Braking
System Limitations (page 221).
Note: If your vehicle gets stuck driving on
snow and ice, it may be rocked out by
shifting between forward and reverse gears,
stopping between shifts in a steady pattern.
Press lightly on the accelerator in each gear.
Note: Do not rock your vehicle if the engine
is not at normal operating temperature, as
damage to the transmission may occur.
Note: Do not rock your vehicle for more
than a minute, as damage to the
transmission and tires may occur or the
engine may overheat.
219
Escape (CTC) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 02-11-2020, enUSA, Edition date: 202011, First-Printing All-Wheel Drive
(If Equipped)

ALL-WHEEL DRIVE – TROUBLESHOOTING
All-Wheel Drive – Information Messages
Action
Message
The all-wheel drive system temporarily turns off to protectitself from overheating.
AWD Temporarily
Disabled
The all-wheel drive system will resume normal function and
clear this message after driving a short distance with the road tire re-installed or after the system cools.
AWD Restored
The all-wheel drive system temporarily turns off to protect
itself from overheating or if you are using the temporary spare tire.
AWD OFF
The all-wheel drive system is not operating properly. If thewarning stays on or continues to come on, contact an authorized dealer.
AWD Malfunction
Service Required
220
Escape (CTC) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 02-11-2020, enUSA, Edition date: 202011, First-Printing All-Wheel Drive (If Equipped)

BRAKE PRECAUTIONS
WARNING: Driving your vehicle
with the warning lamp on is dangerous.
A significant decrease in braking
performance may occur. It may take you
longer to stop your vehicle. Have your
vehicle checked as soon as possible.
Driving extended distances with the
parking brake engaged can cause brake
failure and the risk of personal injury.
Wet brakes result in reduced braking
efficiency. Gently press the brake pedal a
few times when driving from a car wash or
standing water to dry the brakes.
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM
Anti-Lock Braking System
Limitations
The anti-lock braking system does not
eliminate the risk of crash when:
• You drive too closely to the vehicle in
front of you.
• Your vehicle is hydroplaning.
• You take corners too fast.
• The road surface is poor.
Note: If the system activates, the brake
pedal could pulse and could travel further.
Maintain pressure on the brake pedal.
Anti-Lock Braking System
Indicators
This system helps you maintain steering
control during emergency stops by keeping
the brakes from locking. If it illuminates when you are
driving, this indicates a
malfunction. Your vehicle
continues to have normal braking without
the anti-lock brake system function. Have
your vehicle checked as soon as possible.
It also momentarily illuminates when you
switch the ignition on to confirm the lamp
is functional. If it does not illuminate when
you switch the ignition on, or begins to
flash at any time, have the system checked
by an authorized dealer. It illuminates when you engage
the parking brake and the
ignition is on.
If it illuminates when your vehicle
is moving, make sure the parking
brake is disengaged. If the
parking brake is disengaged, this indicates
low brake fluid level or a brake system
fault. Have your vehicle checked as soon
as possible.
It also momentarily illuminates when you
switch the ignition on to confirm the lamp
is functional. If it does not illuminate when
you switch the ignition on, or begins to
flash at any time, have the system checked
by an authorized dealer.
BRAKE OVER ACCELERATOR
In the event the accelerator pedal
becomes stuck or entrapped, apply steady
and firm pressure to the brake pedal to
slow the vehicle and reduce engine power.
If you experience this condition, apply the
brakes and bring your vehicle to a safe
stop. Move the transmission to park (P),
switch the engine off and apply the parking
brake. Inspect the accelerator pedal for
any interference. If none are found and the
condition persists, have your vehicle towed
to the nearest authorized dealer.
221
Escape (CTC) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 02-11-2020, enUSA, Edition date: 202011, First-Printing Brakes E270480

LOCATING THE BRAKE FLUID
RESERVOIR
See Under Hood Overview (page 335).
CHECKING THE BRAKE FLUID WARNING:
Do not use any fluid
other than the recommended brake fluid
as this will reduce brake efficiency. Use
of incorrect fluid could result in the loss
of vehicle control, serious personal injury
or death. WARNING:
Only use brake fluid
from a sealed container. Contamination
with dirt, water, petroleum products or
other materials may result in brake
system damage or failure. Failure to
adhere to this warning could result in the
loss of vehicle control, serious personal
injury or death. WARNING:
Do not allow the fluid
to touch your skin or eyes. If this
happens, rinse the affected areas
immediately with plenty of water and
contact your physician. WARNING:
The brake system
could be affected if the brake fluid level
is below the MIN mark or above the MAX
mark on the brake fluid reservoir. 1. Park your vehicle on a level surface.
2. Look at the brake fluid reservoir to see
where the brake fluid level is relative
to the MIN and the MAX marks on the
reservoir.
Note: To avoid fluid contamination, the
reservoir cap must remain in place and fully
tight, unless you are adding fluid.
Only use fluid that meets our
specifications.
See Capacities and
Specifications (page 407).
BRAKE FLUID SPECIFICATION
See Brake Fluid Specification (page 407).
222
Escape (CTC) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 02-11-2020, enUSA, Edition date: 202011, First-Printing BrakesE170684

BRAKES –
TROUBLESHOOTING
Brakes – Warning Lamps
If the ABS indicator illuminates
when you are driving, this
indicates a malfunction. Your
vehicle continues to have normal braking
without the anti-lock braking system
function. See an authorized dealer.
It also momentarily illuminates when you
switch the ignition on to confirm the lamp
is functional. If it does not illuminate when
you switch the ignition on, or begins to
flash at any time, have the system checked
by an authorized dealer. The brake indicator momentarily
illuminates when you switch the
ignition on to confirm the lamp
is functional. It may also illuminate when
you apply the parking brake and the
ignition is on. If it illuminates when your
vehicle is moving, make sure the parking
brake is disengaged. If the parking brake
is disengaged, this indicates low brake fluid
level or a brake system fault. See an
authorized dealer.
Brakes – Frequently Asked
Questions
Is brake dust on the wheels normal?
Brake dust could accumulate on the
wheels, even under normal driving
conditions. Some dust is inevitable as
the brakes wear and does not
contribute to brake noise. See
Cleaning Wheels (page 353). Will wet driving conditions effect my
braking abilities?
Wet brakes result in reduced braking
efficiency. Gently press the brake
pedal a few times when driving from
a car wash or standing water to dry the
brakes.
Is brake noise considered normal? Occasional brake noise is normal. If a
metal-to-metal, continuous grinding
or continuous squeal sound is present,
the brake linings may be worn-out and
an authorized dealer should check
them. If the vehicle has continuous
vibration or shudder in the steering
wheel while braking, an authorized
dealer should check your vehicle.
When should you replace the brake
fluid? Brake fluid absorbs water over time
which degrades the effectiveness of
the brake fluid. Change the brake fluid
at the specified intervals to prevent
degraded braking performance.
See
Normal Scheduled Maintenance
(page
490).
223
Escape (CTC) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 02-11-2020, enUSA, Edition date: 202011, First-Printing Brakes E270480