2021 FORD F-150 suspension

WHAT IS SMART HITCH
Smart hitch shows how balanced the
weight is from the trailer onto the vehicle's
hitch and front axle.
HOW DOES SMART HITCH
WORK
Smart hitch uses sensors mounted to the
suspension to calculate the tongue weight
of the connected trailer.
SMART HITCH LIMITATIONS
You cannot use the system if any of the
following occur:
•
The wheels are not pointed straight
ahead.
• Your vehicle is not in park (P).
• Your vehicle is not on a level surface.
• The tire pressures are below the
recommended levels.
• Your vehicle is off.
USING SMART HITCH
1. Press Features on the touchscreen.
2. Press
Smart Hitch.
Note: You can also access smart hitch
using the FordPass app. Settings menu.
A
Quick setup.
B
Connection checklist.
C
Hitch type selection.
D
Hitch Type Selection
Press to select the hitch type.
Quick Setup
Press to skip the trailer setup guide and
adjust the load in the trailer to a balanced
range.
Reset Hitch Weight
Press to reset the weight on the hitch to
zero.
Loaded Trailer Weight
Press to set the total weight of the loaded
trailer.
Note: The vehicle's tongue weight is not
available until you attach a trailer.
Note: Make sure you include both the trailer
weight and the trailer cargo in your
calculation for total weight of the loaded
trailer.
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F-150 (TFD) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 202104, Second-Printing Smart HitchA
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WHAT IS ON-BOARD SCALE
On-board scale provides the estimated
payload of your vehicle and warns when
your vehicle is overloaded.
HOW DOES ON-BOARD SCALE
WORK
On-board scale uses sensors mounted to
the suspension to calculate the vehicle's
payload.
ON-BOARD SCALE
LIMITATIONS
You cannot use the system if any of the
following occur:
•
The wheels are not pointed straight
ahead.
• Your vehicle is not in park (P).
• Your vehicle is not on a level surface.
• The tire pressures are below the
recommended levels.
• Your vehicle is off.
USING ON-BOARD SCALE
1. Press Features on the touchscreen.
2. Press
Onboard Scales.
Note: You can also access on-board scale
using the FordPass app. Settings menu.
A
Estimated payload.
B
Taillights on and off.
C
Taillights
Press to see the vehicle's estimated
payload on the vehicle's tail lamp.
On-Board Scale Settings
Vehicle Mode
Press to return to the on-board scale
screen.
Scale Mode
Press to see a representation of the weight
added to the vehicle's current payload and
to reset the scale to zero.
Note: The scale settings remain between
key cycles.
Passenger and Cargo Load Reminder
Press to switch the load reminder on or off.
Set Passenger and Cargo Load Reminder
Press to set the estimated payload that is
not in the vehicle when you use on-board
scale.
The default and minimum value is
200 lb
(100 kg).
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F-150 (TFD) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 202104, Second-Printing On-Board ScaleA
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TRAILER BACKUP ASSISTANCE
– FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS
Why does the trailer not reverse
straight?
Verify the sensor is correctly installed.
Other factors such as the hitch
connection, road camber, road slope
and trailer suspension could influence
how straight the system can reverse
the trailer when the control knob is not
turned. You can compensate for the
trailer drifting to the right or left by
slowly turning the knob until the trailer
is following your desired path and then
holding the knob in that position.
Why does the system not detect a
sensor? There could be an issue with the
connection, the wiring harness could
be damaged, you could have multiple
sensors connected or the sensor could
be incorrectly installed. Check that the
12-way connector is fully inserted into
the 12-way socket. The red rubber seal
is not visible when the connector is
fully inserted. Also check that the
wiring harness sensor connection is
fully inserted at the trailer sensor, and
check for damaged wiring between
the 12-way connector and the trailer
sensor. Also, check that the sensor is
installed on a vertical surface with the
arrows pointing straight up. What does it mean if the system
remains on one message for an
extended time during calibration when
setting up the system with the sticker?
The camera could need to be cleaned,
the sticker could be blocked, the
drawbar could be outside the allowed
range of 4–19 in (10–48 cm) or you
could need to move to a different area
to change the lighting and background.
Verify the sticker is in the proper
location. See
Applying the Trailer
Reversing Aid Sticker (page 448).
You can move to a different area or
change the direction you are driving or
setup the system at a different time
of day. Some trailers are not
compatible with the sticker and
camera system. If the issue persists
with the sticker setup, you may choose
to setup the trailer with a sensor.
What does it mean if the system pauses
during calibration? There could be steering input or trailer
movement during the straight drive
portion of the calibration process.
What does it mean if the system
remains on one message for an
extended time during calibration when
setting up the system with the sensor? The sensor could be incorrectly
installed, the trailer length could be
outside the allowed range or the road
surface could be too rough or bumpy.
What does it mean if the system
displays hold steering steady during
turn? Part of the calibration process for the
sticker setup requires a steady turn. If
you are continually moving the
steering wheel during the turn, this
delays the calibration process. To
enable the calibration process, hold
the steering wheel at the same
position when turning.
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F-150 (TFD) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 202104, Second-Printing Trailer Backup Assistance

TRAILER REVERSE GUIDANCE –
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why does the trailer not reverse
straight?
Verify the sensor is correctly installed.
Other factors such as the hitch
connection, road camber, road slope
and trailer suspension could influence
how straight the system can reverse
the trailer when the control knob is not
turned. You can compensate for the
trailer drifting to the right or left by
slowly turning the knob until the trailer
is following your desired path and then
holding the knob in that position.
Why does the system not detect a
sensor? There could be an issue with the
connection, the wiring harness could
be damaged, you could have multiple
sensors connected or the sensor could
be incorrectly installed. Check that the
12-way connector is fully inserted into
the 12-way socket. The red rubber seal
is not visible when the connector is
fully inserted. Also check that the
wiring harness sensor connection is
fully inserted at the trailer sensor, and
check for damaged wiring between
the 12-way connector and the trailer
sensor. Also, check that the sensor is
installed on a vertical surface with the
arrows pointing straight up. What does it mean if the system
remains on one message for an
extended time during calibration when
setting up the system with the sticker?
The camera could need to be cleaned,
the sticker could be blocked, the
drawbar could be outside the allowed
range of 4–19 in (10–48 cm) or you
could need to move to a different area
to change the lighting and background.
Verify the sticker is in the proper
location. See
Applying the Trailer
Reverse Aid Sticker (page 461). You
can move to a different area or change
the direction you are driving or setup
the system at a different time of day.
Some trailers are not compatible with
the sticker and camera system. If the
issue persists with the sticker setup,
you may choose to setup the trailer
with a sensor.
What does it mean if the system pauses
during calibration? There could be steering input or trailer
movement during the straight drive
portion of the calibration process.
What does it mean if the system
remains on one message for an
extended time during calibration when
setting up the system with the sensor? The sensor could be incorrectly
installed, the trailer length could be
outside the allowed range or the road
surface could be too rough or bumpy.
What does it mean if the system
displays hold steering steady during
turn? Part of the calibration process for the
sticker setup requires a steady turn. If
you are continually moving the
steering wheel during the turn, this
delays the calibration process. To
enable the calibration process, hold
the steering wheel at the same
position when turning.
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F-150 (TFD) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 202104, Second-Printing Trailer Reverse Guidance

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.
OFF-ROAD DRIVING
PRECAUTIONS - RAPTOR
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 driving, consult with
all the appropriate government entities to
determine where you are legally allowed
to operate your vehicle and what permits
or registrations are required to do so.
Inspect your vehicle before and after any
off-road driving.
Familiarize yourself with the dimensions
of your vehicle including approach angles,
breakover angles, and ground clearance.
Also familiarize yourself with the features
of your vehicle. Some of these features
such as drive modes and cameras can
improve your off-road driving experience.
Secure loose objects inside your vehicle
and in the cargo area.
BASIC OFF-ROAD DRIVING
TECHNIQUES - RAPTOR
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. 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.
BASIC OFF-ROAD DRIVING
TECHNIQUES
Off-road Driving Hints
Before taking your vehicle off-roading, a
basic vehicle inspection should be done to
make sure that the vehicle is in top working
condition. It is always recommended that
at least two vehicles are used while
off-roading. The buddy system helps make
sure that help is close at hand should a
vehicle become stuck or damaged. It is also
wise to take supplies such as a first aid kit,
supply of water, tow strap, cell or satellite
phone with you any time an off-road
excursion is planned.
1. Grip the steering wheel with thumbs
on the outside of the rim. This will
reduce the risk of injury due to abrupt
steering wheel motions that occur
when negotiating rough terrain.
2. Throttle, brake and steering inputs should be made in a smooth and
controlled manner. Sudden inputs to
the controls can cause loss of traction
or upset the vehicle, especially while
on loose terrain or while crossing
obstacles such as rocks or logs.
3. Look ahead on your route noting upcoming obstacles, or any other
factors which may indicate a change
in available traction, and adjust the
vehicle speed and route accordingly.
4. When driving off-road, if the front or rear suspension is bottoming out
and/or excessive contact with the
skid-plates is encountered, reduce
vehicle speed to avoid potential
damage to the vehicle.
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Using Trail Control
Trail Control provides you the ability to
maneuver the vehicle without using the
throttle and brake pedals.
The system controls acceleration and
braking in difficult off-road environments,
which allows you to focus on steering. See
Trail Control (page 324).
Trail Control Performance:
• Manages wheel slip to maximize
traction.
• Provides braking to maximize traction
in descents.
Using Trail One Pedal Drive
(If
Equipped)
Trail one pedal drive allows you to
accelerate and brake using only the
accelerator pedal.
Use this when driving over large obstacles,
such as rocks or logs, to help maintain a
constant vehicle speed.
In 4H, the system offers lift pedal braking
and auto hill hold functionality. See
What
Is Trail One Pedal Drive (page 325).
Note: Trail one pedal drive is only available
when the vehicle is in 4H or 4L.
AFTER DRIVING YOUR VEHICLE
OFF-ROAD - RAPTOR WARNING:
After off-road use,
before returning to the road, check the
wheels and tires for damage. Off-road
use may cause damage to your wheels
and tires that can lead to tire failure, loss
of vehicle control, serious injury or death. WARNING:
Always re-inflate tires
to recommended tire pressures before
the vehicle is operated on-road. The
recommended pressure is located on the
tire label or safety certification label,
located on the B-pillar, inside the driver's
door.
Driving off-road places more stress on your
vehicle than most on-road driving. After
driving off-road, check for damage and, if
necessary, have your vehicle repaired by
an authorized dealer.
Inspect the underbody of your vehicle by
checking tires, body structure, steering,
suspension, and exhaust system for
damage.
Check the radiator for mud and debris and
clean as needed.
Remove accumulations of plants or brush.
These things could be a fire hazard or hide
damage to the fuel lines, brake hoses, and
propeller shafts.
After operation in mud, sand, water, or
similar dirty conditions, inspect the
underbody and clean your vehicle.
AFTER DRIVING YOUR VEHICLE
OFF-ROAD WARNING:
After off-road use,
before returning to the road, check the
wheels and tires for damage. Off-road
use may cause damage to your wheels
and tires that can lead to tire failure, loss
of vehicle control, serious injury or death.
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F-150 (TFD) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 202104, Second-Printing Driving Hints

WARNING: Always re-inflate tires
to recommended tire pressures before
the vehicle is operated on-road. The
recommended pressure is located on the
tire label or safety certification label,
located on the B-pillar, inside the driver's
door.
Driving off-road places more stress on your
vehicle than most on-road driving. After
driving off-road check for damage to your
vehicle and, if necessary, have your vehicle
fixed as soon as possible.
Inspect the underbody of your vehicle by
checking tires, body structure, steering,
suspension, and exhaust system for
damage.
Check the radiator for mud and debris and
clean as needed.
Remove accumulations of plants or brush.
These things could be a fire hazard or hide
damage to the fuel lines, brake hoses, and
propeller shafts.
After extended operation in mud, sand,
water, or similar dirty conditions, inspect
the underbody and clean your vehicle as
soon as possible.
If you experience unusual vibration after
driving in mud, slush or similar conditions,
check the wheels for impacted material.
Impacted material can cause vibrations
while driving and wheel imbalance.
Remove the material to resolve the
problem.
COLD WEATHER
PRECAUTIONS
The functional operation of some
components and systems can be affected
at temperatures below approximately
-13°F (-25°C)
. 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.
On ice and snow, you should drive more
slowly than usual. Your vehicle has a four
wheel anti-lock brake system, do not pump
the brake pedal.
See Anti-Lock Braking
System Limitations (page 308).
BREAKING-IN
Your vehicle requires a break-in period. For
the first 1,000 mi (1,600 km), avoid driving
at high speeds, heavy braking, aggressive
shifting or using your vehicle to tow. During
this time, your vehicle may exhibit some
unusual driving characteristics.
DRIVING ECONOMICALLY
The following helps to improve fuel
consumption:
• There is no need to wait for your engine
to warm up. The vehicle is ready to
drive immediately after starting.
• Your fuel consumption should improve
throughout your hybrid's break-in
period.
• Accelerate and slow down in a smooth,
moderate fashion.
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If you intend on parking your vehicle for an
extended period after cleaning the wheels
with a wheel cleaner, drive your vehicle for
a few minutes before parking your vehicle.
This reduces the risk of corrosion of the
brake discs, brake pads and linings.
Do not clean the wheels when they are hot.
Note:
Some car washes could damage
wheel rims and covers.
Note: Using non-recommended cleaners,
harsh cleaning products, chrome wheel
cleaners or abrasive materials could
damage wheel rims and covers.
CLEANING THE ENGINE
COMPARTMENT
Use a vacuum cleaner to remove debris
from the screen area below windshield.
Note: If you are not familiar with the parts
around the engine do not wash the engine
compartment. Avoid frequent engine
washes.
When washing the engine compartment:
• Never wash or rinse the engine while it
is hot or running.
• Never wash or rinse any ignition coil,
spark plug wire or spark plug well.
• Cover the battery, power distribution
box, and air filter assembly to prevent
water damage.
Note: If your vehicle has an engine cover
remove the cover before application of
shampoo and degreaser.
• Spray an approved engine shampoo
and degreaser on all parts that require
cleaning and rinse with water. CLEANING STRIPES OR
GRAPHICS
It is recommended to wash your vehicle by
hand however, pressure washing may be
used under the following conditions:
•
Use a spray with a 40° wide spray
angle pattern.
• Keep the nozzle at a
12 in (305 mm)
distance and 90° angle to your
vehicle's surface.
• Do not use water pressure higher than
2,000 psi (14,000 kPa)
.
• Do not use water hotter than
179°F
(82°C).
Note: Holding the pressure washer nozzle
at an angle to the vehicle's surface may
damage graphics and cause the edges to
peel away from the vehicle's surface.
CLEANING CAMERA LENSES AND
SENSORS
We recommend that you only use
lukewarm or cold water and a soft cloth
to clean the camera lens and sensors.
Note: Do not pressure wash camera lens
and sensors.
CLEANING THE UNDERBODY
Flush the complete underside of your
vehicle frequently. Keep body and door
drain holes free from packed dirt.
Rear suspension components may require
regular cleaning with a power washer or a
thorough rinse with a strong stream of
water if the vehicle is operated in dusty or
muddy environments. Rear leaf springs or
other suspension components may emit
squeaking or popping noises while
operating the vehicle if particles, such as
dirt, rocks, or other debris, are present in
the components.
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F-150 (TFD) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 202104, Second-Printing Vehicle Care