low 4L FORD BRONCO 2023 Owners Manual

When towing a trailer:
•Obey country specific regulations fortowing 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 connectionsand trailer wheel lug nuts thoroughlyafter you have traveled 50 mi (80 km).
•Place the transmission in neutral (N)when stopped in congested or heavytraffic during hot weather. This will aidin engine and transmission cooling andto help A/C performance.
•Turn off the speed control with heavyloads or in hilly terrain. The speedcontrol may turn off when you aretowing on long, steep slopes.
•Shift to a lower gear when driving downa long or steep hill. Do not continuouslyapply the brakes, as they may overheatand become less effective.
•If your transmission has Grade Assistor Tow/Haul, use this feature whentowing. This provides engine brakingand helps eliminate excessivetransmission shifting for optimum fueleconomy and transmission cooling.
•Your vehicle has AdvanceTrac with rollstability control. When towing a trailer,additional loads could cause theAdvanceTrac system to engage duringcornering maneuvers. Reduce corneringspeeds to make sure that you canmaintain control of the vehicle andtrailer if the AdvanceTrac systemengages.
•Allow more distance for stopping witha trailer attached. Anticipate stops andgradually brake.
•Avoid parking on a slope. However, ifyou must park on a slope. Turn thesteering wheel to point your vehicletires away from traffic flow. Set yourvehicle parking brake. Place thetransmission in a low gear. Place wheelchocks in front and back of the trailerwheels.
Note:Chocks are not included with yourvehicle.
TRAILER TOWING HINTS -
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Towing a trailer places an extra load onyour vehicle's engine, transmission, axle,brakes, tires and suspension. Periodicallyinspect these components during and afterany towing operation.
When driving with a trailer or payload, aslight takeoff vibration or shudder may bepresent due to the increased payloadweight.
Your vehicle may have a temporary orconventional spare tire. A temporary sparetire is different in diameter or width,tread-type, or is from a differentmanufacturer than the road tires on yourvehicle. Consult information on the tirelabel or Safety Compliance label forlimitations when using.
When towing a trailer:
•Obey country specific regulations fortowing 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 connectionsand trailer wheel lug nuts thoroughlyafter you have traveled 50 mi (80 km).
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•When stopped in congested or heavytraffic during hot weather, place thetransmission in park (P) to aid engineand transmission cooling and to helpA/C performance.
•Turn off the speed control with heavyloads or in hilly terrain. The speedcontrol may turn off when you aretowing on long, steep slopes.
•Shift to a lower gear when driving downa long or steep hill. Do not continuouslyapply the brakes, as they may overheatand become less effective.
•If your transmission has Grade Assistor Tow/Haul, use this feature whentowing. This provides engine brakingand helps eliminate excessivetransmission shifting for optimum fueleconomy and transmission cooling.
•Your vehicle has AdvanceTrac with rollstability control. When towing a trailer,additional loads could cause theAdvanceTrac system to engage duringcornering maneuvers. Reduce corneringspeeds to make sure that you canmaintain control of the vehicle andtrailer if the AdvanceTrac systemengages.
•Allow more distance for stopping witha trailer attached. Anticipate stops andgradually brake.
•Avoid parking on a slope. However, ifyou must park on a slope, turn thesteering wheel to point your vehicletires away from traffic flow, set theparking brake, place the transmissionin park (P) and place wheel chocks infront and back of the trailer wheels.
Note:Chocks are not included with yourvehicle.
LAUNCHING OR RETRIEVING
A BOAT OR PERSONAL
WATERCRAFT
When backing down a ramp during boatlaunching or retrieval:
•Do not allow the static water level torise above the bottom edge of the rearbumper.
•Do not allow waves to break higherthan 6 in (15 cm) above the bottomedge of the rear bumper.
Exceeding 6 in (15 cm) could allow waterto enter vehicle components, causinginternal damage to the components andaffecting driveability, emissions andreliability.
Note:Replace the rear axle lubricantanytime the rear axle has been submergedin water.
Note:Disconnect the trailer wiringconnector before backing the trailer into thewater.
Note:Reconnect the trailer wiringconnector after removing the trailer fromthe water.
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WHAT IS THE MAXIMUM LOADEDTRAILER WEIGHT
The maximum loaded trailerweight is the highest possibleweight of a fully loaded trailer thevehicle can tow.
CALCULATING THE MAXIMUMLOADED TRAILER WEIGHT FORYOUR VEHICLE
1.Start with the gross combinedweight rating for your vehiclemodel and axle ratio.
2.Subtract all of the followingthat apply to your vehicle:
•Vehicle curb weight.
•Hitch hardware weight, forexample a draw bar, ball, locksor weight distributing hardware.
•Driver weight.
•Passenger weight.
•Payload, cargo and luggageweight.
•Aftermarket equipment weight.
This equals the maximum loadedtrailer weight for this combination.
Note:The trailer tongue load isconsidered part of the payload foryour vehicle. Reduce the totalpayload by the final trailer tongueweight.
Note:Consult an authorized dealerto determine the maximum trailerweight allowed for your vehicle ifyou are not sure.
TOWING A TRAILER – TROUBLESHOOTING
TOWING A TRAILER – INFORMATION MESSAGES
DetailsMessage
The trailer sway control detects trailersway. Reduce the vehicle's speed.Trailer Sway Reduce Speed
Verify the trailer brake connections aresecure and that the aftermarket trailerbrake controller device is correctly installed.Perform a trailer brake and trailer lightcheck if possible. If the message persists,have your vehicle checked as soon aspossible.
Trailer brake system fault See manual
Perform a trailer brake and trailer lightcheck if possible. If the message persists,have your vehicle checked as soon aspossible.
Trailer brake module fault
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WINCHING OVERVIEW
Winch motor.A
Winch drum.B
Winch control pack.C
Winch rope.D
Winch clutch.E
Fairlead.F
Remote control.G
Hook strap.H
Winch hook.I
WINCHING PRECAUTIONS
WARNING: Using winch ropes isdangerous and should only be done bya person familiar with proper vehiclerecovery safety practices. Improper useof winch ropes could cause hook failureor separation from the vehicle.
WARNING: Slowly remove theslack from the winch rope prior to pulling.Failure to do so can introducesignificantly higher loads which couldcause the winch rope to break off, or thewinch rope to fail.
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WARNING: Never link two winchropes together with a clevis pin. Theseheavy metal objects could becomeprojectiles if the winch rope breaks.
WARNING: When using the winch,take care not to get your fingers or handscaught in the mechanism. Failure tofollow this instruction could result inpersonal injury.
WARNING: Avoid wearing loosefitting clothing or jewelry when winching.
WARNING: Make sure to wear eyeprotection when winching.
WARNING: Do not exceed thewinch or winch rope capacity. Failure tofollow this instruction could result inpersonal injury.
WARNING: Wear gloves whenhandling the winch rope. Failure to followthis instruction could result in personalinjury.
WARNING: Do not use the winchto secure loads.
WARNING: Do not use the winchto tow a trailer. This can damage,overload and break the winch rope.
WARNING: Make sure the anchorpoint can properly support the load andsecure the winching equipment. Failureto follow this instruction could result inpersonal injury.
WARNING: Only use theequipment supplied with the winch whenwinching.
WARNING: Do not engage ordisengage the winch clutch when thewinch is in use.
WARNING: The winch andassociated components become hotwhen in use. Let them cool down beforeremoving them.
WARNING: Do not attempt toservice, repair or modify the winchingsystem. Failure to follow this instructioncould result in personal injury or death.
WARNING: Make sure to properlystore the winch rope to the shackle pointor fairlead when not in use. Failure toproperly store the winch rope couldcause it to become a projectile.
WINCHING REQUIREMENTS
To winch your vehicle, make sure of thefollowing:
•The intended anchor point is secure.The anchor point must be strongenough to hold the weight of yourvehicle when winching.
•The intended anchor point allows youto pull your vehicle straight ahead.
•The intended anchor point is as faraway as possible, within the 100 ft(30 m) rope length. This allows thegreatest pulling power for the winch.
•The winch rope is in good condition andfree of visible cuts, tear or damage.
•Use a damper device such as a tarp,heavy blanket or piece of carpet, andplace it over the winch rope to helpabsorb the energy in the event thewinch rope breaks.
•Bystanders are to the sides of thevehicle, at a distance of at least twicethe length of the winch rope.
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WINCHING LIMITATIONS
The following could impact winchoperation:
•Temperatures below 32°F (0°C).
•Low battery charge.
•Winching without the engine runningor for sustained pulls of a minute ormore.
•Try winching using shorter pullswith breaks, both to check setupand to allow the vehicle's batteryto recharge.
•Exceeding the winch or winch roperating.
You may see messages on your instrumentcluster if the system voltage drops belowa set threshold, specifically if batteryhealth is poor, winching occurs in freezingtemperatures, and/or a continuouswinching cycle. These messages go awayonce vehicle system voltage returns tonormal.
WINCHING YOUR VEHICLE
For more information, refer to The BasicGuide to Winching Techniques.
1.Put on gloves.
2.Switch the clutch to the freespoolposition.
3.Pull the winch rope to the anchor point.
4.Secure the winch rope to the anchorpoint using a tree trunk protector orchoker chain.
5.Secure the clevis to the tree trunkprotector or choker chain and the hookstrap by threading the two ends of thetree trunk protector or choker chain andthe hook strap loop through the clevis.Do not overtighten the clevis.
6.Switch the clutch to the lockedposition.
7.Remove the cap from the control boxand connect the remote control to thecontrol box.
8.Put the winch rope under tension byslowly winding it with the remotecontrol.
9.Check the anchor and make sure allthe connections are secure and free ofdebris.
10.Make sure the winch rope is neatlywound around the spooling drum.
11.Place an energy absorber, such as atree limb, heavy jacket, chain orbackpack, over the winch rope,halfway between the winch andanchor point.
12.Make sure that everyone in theimmediate area is clear of thewinching vehicle.
13.With your vehicle switched on, beginwinching slowly and steadily with theremote control.
14.Continue winching your vehicle untilit is on stable ground.
15.Place your vehicle in park (P).
Note:If your vehicle is manual transmission,place it in first gear.
16.Disconnect the winch rope from theanchor.
17.Wind the winch rope back onto thewinch drum by walking it back withthe remote control. Keep tension onthe rope when rewinding it onto thedrum to evenly distribute the winchrope on the drum.
18.Secure the winch hook to the shacklepoint or the fairlead.
19.Disconnect the remote control fromthe control box. Store the remote ina clean, dry place. Place the cap backon the control box.
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WINCHING -
TROUBLESHOOTING
WINCHING – FREQUENTLY ASKEDQUESTIONS
Why does the winch workdifferently in cold weather thanwarm weather?
•The winch is an electrical system andtemperatures below 32°F (0°C) affectthe vehicle's battery, which suppliespower to the winch.
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OFF-ROAD DRIVING
WHAT IS OFF-ROAD DRIVING
Bronco 4x4 Systems
Off-road driving is driving your vehicle onunsurfaced roads or trails, made from dirt,rocks, sand and mud.
Your vehicle has been designed andequipped to explore those places wherethe road cannot take you, whether youchoose a forest trail or the open desert.
OFF-ROAD DRIVINGPRECAUTIONS
WARNING: If you continue to driveyour vehicle when the engine isoverheating, the engine could stopwithout warning. Failure to follow thisinstruction could result in the loss ofcontrol of your vehicle.
Before going off-road, consult with yourlocal governmental agencies to determinedesignated off-road trails and recreationareas. Also, be sure to understand anyoff-road vehicle registration requirementsfor the area in which you plan on driving.
Tread Lightly is an educational programdesigned to increase public awareness ofland-use regulations and responsibilitiesin our nation’s wilderness areas. The U.S.Forest Service and Bureau of LandManagement is encouraging you to helppreserve our national forest and otherpublic and private lands by treading lightly.
Before taking your vehicle off-road,perform a basic vehicle inspection to makesure the vehicle is in top working condition.
Before you venture off road, have a clearmental picture of the underside of yourvehicle. Learn the location of any lowhanging items and any skid plates that maybe on the vehicle. You can avoid snaggingthem on rocks and other obstacles if youknow where they are.
Memorizing some basic dimensions helpsyou confidently deal with off-roadobstacles. Get to know your vehicle’sheight and width, its lowest point, itswading depth and angles. Familiarizeyourself with your vehicle’s on-boardtechnology features.
We recommend driving at least twovehicles when driving off-road. The buddysystem helps make sure that help is closeat hand should a vehicle become stuck ordamaged.
We recommend taking supplies such as afirst aid kit, supply of water, tow strap andcell or satellite phone with you any timeyou plan an off-road excursion.
Note:Remove the front license plate beforeoff-road driving to achieve optimalperformance.
BASIC OFF-ROAD DRIVINGTECHNIQUES
Grip the steering wheel with your thumbson the outside of the rim. This reduces therisk of injury due to abrupt steering wheelmotions that occur when negotiating roughterrain.
Control your throttle, brake and steeringinputs in a smooth manner. Sudden inputsto the controls can cause a loss of tractionfor the vehicle, especially when on slopedterrain or crossing obstacles such as rocksor logs.
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Look ahead on your route noting upcomingobstacles, surface texture or color changesor any other factors which may indicate achange in available traction. Adjust thevehicle speed and route to avoid a loss intraction. Conditions can change causingthe course to vary day to day. Markobstacles with GPS markers to avoidpotential vehicle damage. Wherenecessary, get out of your vehicle andcheck the terrain.
When driving off-road, if the front or rearsuspension is bottoming-out or excessivecontact with the skid-plates is happening,reduce the vehicle's speed to avoidpotential damage to your vehicle.
If you are driving in a dusty area, be sure toleave ample distance between your vehicleand any other vehicles to allow foradequate vision.
When driving off-road verify that yourwipers and washers are working properlyand reduce your speed for better visibility.
When driving in desert conditions, werecommend driving with your headlampson to help other drivers easily see you.
When convoying with other vehicles, werecommend that communication is used,and the lead vehicle notify other vehiclesof upcoming obstacles.
Keep available ground clearance in mindand pick a route that minimizes the risk ofcatching the underside of the vehicle onan obstacle.
When negotiating low speed obstacles,applying light brake pressure in conjunctionwith the throttle allows you to negotiatethe obstacle in a more controlled manner.
Driving off-road requires a high amount ofconcentration. Even if your local law doesnot prohibit drinking alcohol when drivingoff-road we do not recommend it.
DRIVING OFF-ROAD
Driving In Snow and Ice
WARNING: If you are driving inslippery conditions that require tirechains or cables, then it is critical thatyou drive cautiously. Keep speeds down,allow for longer stopping distances andavoid aggressive steering to reduce thechances of a loss of vehicle controlwhich can lead to serious injury or death.If the rear end of your vehicle slides whilecornering, steer in the direction of theslide until you regain control of yourvehicle.
Four-wheel drive vehicles have advantagesover two-wheel drive vehicles in snow andice but can skid like any other vehicle. Ifyour vehicle slides when driving on snowyor icy roads, turn the steering wheel in thedirection of the slide until you regaincontrol. Avoid sudden applications ofpower and quick changes of direction onsnow and ice. Slowly and steadily applythe accelerator when starting from a fullstop. Avoid sudden braking.
WARNING: Do not becomeoverconfident in the ability of four-wheeldrive vehicles. Although a four-wheeldrive vehicle may accelerate better thana two-wheel drive vehicle in low tractionsituations, it won't stop any faster thantwo-wheel drive vehicles. Always driveat a safe speed.
Make sure you allow sufficient distancebetween your vehicle and other vehiclesfor stopping.
In emergency stopping situations, do notpump the brake pedal, apply the brakefirmly.
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Driving In Sand
When driving over sand, try to keep all fourwheels on the most solid area of the trail.Drive through the terrain without varyingvehicle speed. Apply the accelerator andavoid excessive wheel slip.
Use the vehicle's momentum to maintainforward motion in sand. Avoid coming toa stop on steep sand slopes as the vehiclemay not be able to continue forward afterit has stopped.
Driving In Mud
Be cautious of sudden changes in vehiclespeed or direction when you are driving inmud.
Even four-wheel drive vehicles can losetraction in slick mud. If your vehicle doesslide, steer in the direction of the slide untilyou regain control of your vehicle.
After driving through mud, clean off residuestuck to the wheels and tires and rotatingdriveshafts. Excess mud stuck on thewheels and tires and rotating driveshaftscan cause an imbalance that coulddamage drive components.
Note:The vehicle brakes are less effectivewhen wet or muddy.
Driving Over Rocks and Gravel
Gravel is a constantly changing, low-gripsurface. Driving at slow speeds on gravelreduces the risk of losing traction when youstop, accelerate or turn a corner.
When approaching large rocks, positionthe vehicle so that the tires pass over thelargest obstacle.
Note:Never attempt to straddle a rock thatis large enough to strike your axles orundercarriage.
Note:Never attempt to drive over a rockwhich is large enough to contact the doorsills if your vehicle does not have rock rails.
If you lose traction on your wheels facinguphill, stop and choose a more suitableroute.
Leave a generous gap between yourvehicle and other vehicles to minimize therisk of damage from flying gravel. Avoiddust clouds as they reduce visibility.
Before navigating on uneven ground,secure anything inside the vehicle. Ifpossible, remove any roof-rack items. Usethe lowest gear possible and approach theobstacle at a slow speed.
If your vehicle begins to slide down a slope,steer downhill and gently apply thethrottle. If you lose traction on your uphillwheels, stop immediately and choose amore suitable route.
Approach logs, rocky steps or ditchesdiagonally. Keep at least three wheels onthe ground at all times.
Climbing A Hill
WARNING: Extreme care shouldbe used when steering the vehicle inreverse down a slope so as not to causethe vehicle to swerve out of control.
Although natural obstacles can make itnecessary to travel diagonally up or downa hill or steep incline, try to drive straightup or straight down.
Note: Avoid turning on steep slopes orhills. A danger lies in losing traction, slippingsideways and possible vehicle roll over.
Whenever driving on a hill, you must firstdetermine the route you can use.
When climbing a steep slope or hill, startin a lower gear rather than downshifting toa lower gear from a higher gear. Thisreduces strain on the engine and thepossibility of stalling.
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