If your vehicle stalls, do not try to turnaround because this could cause yourvehicle to roll over. It is better to reverseback to a safe location.
Do not drive over the crest of a hill withoutseeing what conditions are on the otherside. Do not drive in reverse over a hillwithout the aid of an observer.
If the vehicle is unable to make it up thehill, do not attempt to turn back down theslope.
Apply the accelerator just enough for thewheels to climb the hill.
Note:Too much acceleration can causethe tires to slip, spin or lose traction,resulting in loss of vehicle control.
Descending A Hill:
•Use the same gear you would use toclimb the hill.
•Do not descend in neutral.
•Disengage overdrive.
•Avoid sudden and excessive braking.
Note:The front wheels have to be turningin order to steer your vehicle.
When descending a steep hill in a manualtransmission vehicle do not leave thevehicle in gear with the clutch pressed. Thiscould cause damage to your driveline.
Driving Through Water
WARNING: Do not attempt tocross a deep, fast flowing body of water.Failure to follow this instruction couldresult in the loss of control of yourvehicle, personal injury or death.
As the water depth increases, you mustreduce your vehicle speed to avoidpotential vehicle damage.
The key to a safe crossing is the waterdepth, current and bottom of the water'scondition. On soft bottoms, the vehiclesinks in, effectively increasing the waterlevel on the vehicle. Make sure to considerthis when determining the depth of water.
Determine the depth and speed of thecurrent before attempting a water crossing.
Be aware that obstacles and debris maybe beneath the water’s surface.
Note:Cross flowing water at an angleheading slightly upstream.
Note:You should tread lightly and avoiddamage to the environment.
Drive slowly when crossing water. Proceedwith a constant slow speed lightly pressingon the accelerator.
Drive through the water very slowly whenentering, then build up momentum. Keepyour vehicle moving at a steady pace.
Note:Do not try to accelerate through thewater crossing.
When driving too fast in water or throughdeep water, the engine, transmission,transfer case, axles, electrical componentsor vehicle interior could ingest water. Watercan cause permanent damage that maynot be covered by your vehicle warranty.See Driving Through Water Limitations(page 323).
Note:Failure to follow the recommendedspeeds can result in vehicle damage.
Never stop or shut a vehicle off whencrossing deep water unless your vehicleingested water into the engine air intake.If the engine stalls, do not attempt torestart it.
Ease off the accelerator as you reach theother side to diminish the front wave. Applythe accelerator slowly and as necessaryto climb out of the other side.
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Muddy waters can reduce the coolingsystem effectiveness by depositing debrisinto the radiator.
Extra care must be taken crossing any typeof water. Do not drive into water unlessnecessary. You should only drive throughareas that are designated and approved.
High currents even in shallow water canwash the dirt out from around your tires orpush your vehicle across slippery rocks orsurfaces.
Never attempt to cross flowing water thatis deeper than your vehicles groundclearance. Even in low currents yourvehicles body surface area can be pusheddownstream and out of control.
Do not cross any body of water that is fastflowing and rising, wait for the flow rate toreduce.
Determine exit points that are downstreamof your entry point to allow for drifting.
If there are other vehicles ahead, wait untilthey’ve left the water. Unsettled water canmake a safe passage more challenging.
Know your vehicle’s abilities and be ableto recover it if something goes wrong.
Keep the doors fully closed during a watercrossing.
Vehicles used to traverse water regularlyshould be periodically inspected for signsof water ingestion in all of the vehicle'sfluids. If water is found inside your vehiclefluids, service your vehicle or see anauthorized dealer.
After driving through water and as soon asit is safe to do so, check the brakes, horn,lights, and steering wheel to make sureeverything is still in working order.
Avoid Getting High-Centered
Always keep available ground clearancein mind and pick a route that minimizes therisk of catching the underside of the vehicleon an obstacle and getting high-centered.
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle
WARNING: Do not spin the wheelsat over 34 mph (55 km/h). The tires mayfail and injure a passenger or bystander.
Recovery hooks are mounted to thevehicle's structure and are used to pull outthe vehicle from a surface or location whenstuck. Recover your vehicle using varioustowing apparatus attached to yourrecovery hook such as winch, open hook,or strap.
Note:Do not use recovery hooks torecreationally tow your vehicle. SeeRecreationally Towing Your Vehicle (page338).
If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow,you may rock it out by shifting betweenforward and reverse gears, stoppingbetween shifts in a steady pattern. Pressthe accelerator in each gear.
Note: Do not rock your vehicle if the engineis not at normal operating temperaturedamage to the transmission may occur.
Note:Do not rock your vehicle for morethan a minute damage to the transmissionand tires may occur or the engine mayoverheat.
If you are unable to free your vehicle callroadside assistance. See RoadsideAssistance (page 328).
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When you are driving through water do notexceed 4 mph (7 km/h).
OFF-ROAD DRIVING AIDS
Bronco 4x4 Systems
Selecting an Off-Road G.O.A.TMode
Using the appropriate drive mode increasesyour vehicle's control. See G.O.A.T. ModeControl (page 260).
Note:Drive modes are selected by usingthe Goes Over Any-type of Terrain G.O.A.T.MODES controller.
Using Four-Wheel Drive
Your vehicle has a four-wheel drive systemthat offers various modes to help youoptimize traction on any off-road surface.See Four-Wheel Drive (page 195).
Using the Stabilizer BarDisconnect
The stabilizer bar disconnect improvessuspension articulation, improving tractionand comfort in rough terrain.
The vehicle's disconnect system ishydraulically actuated.
Your vehicle is capable of disconnectingunder high load. Your vehicle is alsocapable of reconnecting under allconditions.
It is not necessary for the vehicle to be onlevel ground in order to reconnect thestabilizer bar. See Stabilizer BarDisconnect (page 229).
Using the Cameras Off-Road
Use the 360 degree camera to enhanceyour off-road experience. See 360 DegreeCamera (page 247).
Using the Front and RearDifferential Lock
When engaged, the front and reardifferential lock provides additionaltraction to your vehicle by forcing eitherthe two rear wheels or two front wheels toturn at the same speed.
You can activate and deactivate the frontand rear differential lock on the fly withinthe operating speed range. See ElectronicLocking Differential (page 203).
Using Trail Control
The system works in a similar manner tocruise control in off-road conditions. TrailControl provides you the ability tomaneuver the vehicle without using thethrottle and brake pedals.
Trail Control allows you to set a speedbetween 1 mph (1.6 km/h) to 14 mph(23 km/h) in a forward motion and 1 mph(1.6 km/h) to 5 mph (8 km/h) in reverse.The system controls acceleration andbraking in difficult off-road environments,which allows you to focus on steering. SeeTrail Control (page 222).
Trail Control Performance:
•Manages wheel slip to maximizetraction.
•Removes the need for you to use bothfeet when driving in off-road situations.
•Provides braking to maximize tractionin descents.
•Gives you confidence in difficultenvironments.
Using Trail One Pedal Drive
Trail one pedal drive coordinatespropulsive and braking torque through yourapplication of the accelerator pedal tosimulate a two footed driving technique.
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Use this when driving over large obstacles,such as rocks or logs, to help maintain aconstant vehicle speed.
In 4H, the system offers lift pedal brakingand auto hill hold functionality. See WhatIs Trail One Pedal Drive (page 223).
Note:Trail one pedal drive is only availablewhen the vehicle is in 4H or 4L.
Using Trail Turn Assist
The feature reduces the turn radius of thevehicle on off-road surfaces.
The system reduces driver effort tonegotiate difficult off-road terrain byallowing the vehicle to make a tight turnin a single maneuver that might otherwiserequire a three point turn. See Trail TurnAssist (page 227).
Note:Trail turn assist is only available whenthe vehicle is in 4H or 4L.
Note:Trail turn assist cannot activate if therear differential is locked.
What Are Rock Rails (If Equipped)
Rock rails protect the rocker and body sidefrom damage and provide a sliding surfaceto allow the vehicle to cross boulders androck ledges.
Rock rails also can act as a pivot point tosharply turn the vehicle in tight spaces withhigh walls or rocks present.
AFTER DRIVING YOUR VEHICLEOFF-ROAD
WARNING: After off-road use,before returning to the road, check thewheels and tires for damage. Off-roaduse may cause damage to your wheelsand tires that can lead to tire failure, lossof vehicle control, serious injury or death.
Driving off-road places more stress on yourvehicle than most on-road driving. Afterdriving off-road, check for damage to thewheels, chassis and underbody.
Inspect the underbody of your vehicle bychecking tires, body structure, steering,suspension, and exhaust system fordamage.
Inspect the tires for any cuts in the treador sidewall area. Also inspect the sidewallfor any bulge indicating damage to the tire.
Make sure the tires are inflated to propertire pressure as indicated on the tireplacard.
Check the radiator for mud and debris andclean as needed.
Check that the air filter is clean and dry.
Remove accumulations of plants or brush.These things could be a fire hazard or hidedamage to the fuel lines, brake hoses andpropeller shafts.
Make sure the grille and radiator are clearof any obstructions that may affectcooling.
After extended operation in mud, sand,water, or similar dirty conditions, inspectthe wipers and washers to make sure theyare working.
Note:Mud caked windows are hard to seethrough and can damage wiper blades ormotor.
Check wipers for debris or anything thatmay scratch the windshield.
If you experience unusual vibration afterdriving in mud, slush or similar conditions,check the wheels for impacted material.Impacted material can cause vibrationswhen driving and wheel imbalance.Remove the material to reduce thevibration.
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Note:If you have removed the impactedmaterial from the wheels and your vehiclestill has a vibration check your vehicle fordamage or see an authorized dealer.
Inspect the exhaust system for damage orlooseness.
Make sure that the brakes are in properworking order and free of any mud, stonesand debris, which can become trappedaround the brake rotor, backing plate andcaliper.
Inspect the wheels for dents, cracks, orother damage.
Inspect undercarriage fasteners. If any areloose or damaged, tighten or replaceensuring that the proper torquespecification is used.
Inspect for torn or punctured boots on balljoints, half shafts, steering gears.
Refit the front license plate if removedpreviously.
COLD WEATHER
PRECAUTIONS
The functional operation of somecomponents and systems can be affectedat temperatures below approximately-13°F (-25°C).
BREAKING-IN
Your vehicle requires a break-in period. Forthe first 1,000 mi (1,600 km), avoid drivingat high speeds, heavy braking, aggressiveshifting or using your vehicle to tow. Duringthis time, your vehicle may exhibit someunusual driving characteristics.
DRIVING ECONOMICALLY
The following helps to improve fuelconsumption:
•Drive smoothly, accelerate gently andanticipate the road ahead to avoidheavy braking.
•Regularly check your tire pressures andmake sure that they are inflated to thecorrect pressure.
•Follow the recommended maintenanceschedule and carry out therecommended checks.
•Plan your journey and check the trafficbefore you set off. It is more efficientto combine errands into a single tripwhenever possible.
•Avoid idling the engine in cold weatheror for extended periods. Start theengine only when you are ready to setoff.
•Do not carry unnecessary weight in yourvehicle as extra weight wastes fuel.
•Do not add unnecessary accessoriesto the exterior of your vehicle, forexample running boards. If you use aroof rack, remember to fold it down orremove it when not in use.
•Do not shift into neutral when you arebraking or when your vehicle is slowingdown.
•Shut all windows when driving at highspeeds.
•Switch off all electric systems whennot in use, for example air conditioning.Make sure that you unplug anyaccessories from the auxiliary powerpoints when not in use.
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All-wheel or four-wheel drive vehiclesrequire that all wheels be off the groundusing a wheel lift and dollies or flatbedequipment. This prevents damage to thetransmission and drive system.
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TOWING YOUR VEHICLE
PRECAUTIONS
Use the following guidelines when towingyour vehicle. Failure to follow thisinstruction could result in vehicle damagenot covered by the vehicle warranty.
Note:Make sure you properly secure yourvehicle to the tow vehicle.
Note:If you are unsure of the vehicle’sconfiguration, contact an authorized dealer.
RECREATIONALLY TOWING
YOUR VEHICLE - MANUAL
TRANSMISSION
WARNING: Do not disconnect thebattery when recreationally towing yourvehicle. This prevents the transfer casefrom shifting properly and could causethe vehicle to roll, even if thetransmission is in gear.
WARNING: Placing the transfercase in its neutral position could causeyour vehicle to freely roll. Make sure youpress and hold the brake pedal and thevehicle is in a secure, safe position whenyou place the transfer case in its neutralposition.
Follow these guidelines if you have a needfor recreational towing. An example ofrecreational towing would be towing yourvehicle behind a motorhome. Theseguidelines are to make sure that you donot damage the transmission.
You can only tow your vehicle with all fourwheels on the ground by placing thetransfer case in its neutral position byengaging the recreational tow feature.Perform the following steps afterpositioning your vehicle behind the towvehicle and properly securing themtogether.
Note:Put your climate control system inrecirculated air mode to prevent exhaustfumes from entering your vehicle.
Note:Failure to put the transfer case in itsneutral position can damage vehiclecomponents.
Note: You can check the towing status atany time by opening the driver door orturning the ignition to the accessory or onposition.Neutral Tow Enabled LeaveTransmission in Neutral appears in theinstrument cluster display to confirm youcan recreationally tow your vehicle.
Note:If your vehicle has an anti-theftalarm, make sure you switch perimetersensing on when towing.
Note:A tone could sound for up to 30minutes if you recreationally tow with thedoors removed.
Switching Neutral Tow On
1.Switch your vehicle to accessory modeby pressing the push button ignitionswitch without pressing any pedals.
2.Press the 2H button on the four-wheeldrive mode control.
3.Leave the gearshift lever in the neutralposition and fully press and hold boththe clutch and the brake pedal.
4.Using the instrument cluster controlson the steering wheel, select Settings.
5.Select Neutral Tow.
6.Press and hold the OK button until aconfirmation message appears in theinformation display.
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Note: If completed successfully, theinformation display shows Neutral TowEnabled Leave Transmission in Neutral.This indicates that your vehicle is safe totow with all wheels on the ground.
Note:If you do not see a confirmationmessage in the instrument cluster display,you must perform the procedure again fromthe beginning.
Note:You may hear noise as the transfercase shifts into its neutral position. This isnormal.
7.Release both the clutch and the brakepedals and leave the gearshift lever inthe neutral position.
8.Switch your vehicle off by pressing thepush button ignition switch oncewithout pressing any pedals.
Switching Neutral Tow Off
1.With your vehicle properly secured tothe tow vehicle, switch your vehicle toaccessory mode by pressing the pushbutton ignition switch without pressingany pedals.
2.Starting with both the brake and clutchpedal released, fully press and holdboth pedals at the same time forapproximately seven seconds.Continue holding both pedals until theinstrument cluster display shows 2Hand Neutral Tow Disabled.
Note:If completed successfully, theinstrument cluster displays 2H and NeutralTow Disabled.
Note:You must perform the switchingneutral tow on and switching neutral towoff procedures again from the beginning ifthe indicator light and message do notdisplay.
Note:You may hear a noise as the transfercase shifts out of its neutral position. Thisis normal.
3.Release the pedals.
4.Apply the parking brake, thendisconnect your vehicle from the towvehicle.
5.Release the parking brake, start yourvehicle, and shift into either a forwardor a reverse gear to make sure thetransfer case is out of the neutral towposition.
6.If the transfer case did not successfullyshift out of its neutral position, set theparking brake. Have your vehiclechecked as soon as possible.
Resolving the Shift Delayed DriveForward Message
1.Fully press and hold both the brake andthe clutch pedals.
2.Press the push button ignition switch.
3.With the vehicle running, shift into aforward gear and release the clutch.Let the vehicle roll forward up to 3 ft(1 m).
Note:You may hear a noise as the transfercase shifts out of its neutral position. Thisis normal.
4.Make sure the instrument clusterdisplays Neutral Tow Disabled.
RECREATIONALLY TOWING
YOUR VEHICLE - AUTOMATIC
TRANSMISSION
WARNING: Do not disconnect thebattery when recreationally towing yourvehicle. This prevents the transfer casefrom shifting properly and could causethe vehicle to roll, even if thetransmission is in park (P).
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