washer fluid check FORD EXPLORER 2021 Owners Manual

Essential Towing Checks
.........................292
Towing the Vehicle on Four Wheels .....
294
Driving Hints
Reduced Engine Performance ...............
295
Economical Driving ....................................
295
Cold Weather Precautions ......................
296
Breaking-In ...................................................
296
Driving Through Water .............................
296
Floor Mats ......................................................
297
Roadside Emergencies
Roadside Assistance .................................
298
Hazard Flashers ..........................................
299
Fuel Shutoff .................................................
299
Jump Starting the Vehicle ......................
300
Collision, Damage or Fire Event ............
302
Post-Crash Alert System .........................
303
Transporting the Vehicle .........................
303
Customer Assistance
Getting the Services You Need .............
305
In California (U.S. Only) ...........................
306
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) Auto Line Program (U.S. Only) .....................
307
Utilizing the Mediation/Arbitration Program (Canada Only) .....................
308
Getting Assistance Outside the U.S. and Canada ......................................................
308
Ordering Additional Owner's Literature ........................................................................\
.
310
Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only) ........................................................................\
.
310
Reporting Safety Defects (Canada Only) ........................................................................\
.
310
Fuses
Fuse Specification Chart ...........................
312
Changing a Fuse .........................................
320Maintenance
General Information
...................................
322
Opening and Closing the Hood .............
322
Under Hood Overview - 2.3L EcoBoost™ ........................................................................\
323
Under Hood Overview - 3.0L ..................
324
Under Hood Overview - 3.3L ..................
325
Engine Oil Dipstick - 2.3L EcoBoost™ ........................................................................\
326
Engine Oil Dipstick - 3.0L ........................
326
Engine Oil Dipstick - 3.3L .........................
326
Engine Oil Check .........................................
326
Oil Change Indicator Reset ......................
327
Changing the Engine Air Filter - 2.3L EcoBoost™ ...............................................
328
Changing the Engine Air Filter - 3.0L ........................................................................\
329
Changing the Engine Air Filter - 3.3L ....
330
Engine Coolant Check ................................
331
Automatic Transmission Fluid Check ........................................................................\
335
Brake Fluid Check .......................................
335
Power Steering Fluid Check ....................
336
Changing the 12V Battery ........................
336
Adjusting the Headlamps .......................
338
Washer Fluid Check ...................................
340
Fuel Filter .......................................................
340
Checking the Wiper Blades ....................
340
Changing the Front Wiper Blades ........
340
Changing the Rear Wiper Blades ...........
341
Changing a Bulb ...........................................
341
Vehicle Care
General Information ..................................
343
Cleaning Products ......................................
343
Cleaning the Exterior .................................
344
Waxing ............................................................
345
Cleaning the Engine ...................................
345
Cleaning the Windows and Wiper Blades ........................................................................\
346
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Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing Table of Contents

High Voltage Electric System
Failure (If Equipped)
It illuminates if your hybrid
electric vehicle has an electrical
component fault or failure that
causes your vehicle to shutdown or enter
a limited operating mode. A message may
appear in the instrument cluster display.
Hill Descent
(If Equipped) Illuminates when you switch hill
descent on.
Hood Ajar Illuminates when the ignition is
on and the hood is not
completely closed.
Lamps On Illuminates when you switch the
low beam headlamps or the
parking lamps on.
Liftgate Ajar Illuminates when the liftgate is
not completely closed.
Low Beam Warning Illuminates when the low beam
headlamp bulb is not functioning
properly.
Low Fuel Level Illuminates when the fuel level
is low or the fuel tank is nearly
empty. Refuel as soon as
possible. Low Tire Pressure Warning Illuminates when the tire
pressure is low. If the lamp
remains on with the engine
running or when driving, check the tire
pressure as soon as possible.
It also illuminates momentarily 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.
Low Washer Fluid Illuminates when the windshield
washer fluid is low.
Powertrain Fault Illuminates when the system
detects a powertrain or a
4WD/AWD fault. Contact an
authorized dealer as soon as possible.
Ready to Drive
(If Equipped) Illuminates when you have
switched on your hybrid electric
vehicle and it is ready to drive. A
corresponding message may appear
stating ready to drive.
Service Engine Soon It illuminates when you switch
the ignition on prior to engine
start to check the bulb and to
indicate whether your vehicle is ready for
Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) testing.
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Lane Keeping System
Action
Message
The system has malfunctioned. Have the system checked as soon as possible.
Lane Keeping Sys.
Malfunction
Service Required
The system has detected a condition that has caused the systemto be temporarily unavailable.
Front Camera
Temporarily Not Available
The system has detected a condition that requires the windshieldto be cleaned to operate properly.
Front Camera Low
Visibility Clean Screen
The system has malfunctioned. Have the system checked as soon as possible.
Front Camera
Malfunction
Service Required
The system requests the driver to keep their hands on the steering wheel.
Keep Hands on
Steering Wheel
Maintenance Action
Message
Stop your vehicle as soon as safely possible and turn off the engine.
Check the oil level. If the warning stays on or continues to come onwith your engine running, have the system checked as soon as possible.
Low Engine Oil
Pressure
The engine oil life is low and needs to be changed soon.
Change Engine Oil
Soon
The engine oil life is low and needs to be changed immediately.
Oil Change
Required
The brake fluid level is low and the brake system should be
inspected immediately. See Brake Fluid Check (page 335).
Brake Fluid Level
Low
The brake system needs servicing. Stop the vehicle in a safe place. Contact an authorized dealer.
Check Brake
System
The engine coolant temperature is excessively high.
Engine Coolant
Over Temperature
The washer fluid is low and needs to be refilled.
Washer Fluid Level
Low
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Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing Information Displays

Engine oil dipstick. See Engine Oil Dipstick (page 326).
C
Brake fluid reservoir. See
Brake Fluid Check (page 335).
D
Engine compartment fusebox. See
Changing a Fuse (page 320).
E
Engine coolant reservoir. See
Engine Coolant Check (page 331).
F
Air filter assembly. See
Changing the Engine Air Filter (page 328).
G
Windshield washer fluid reservoir. See
Washer Fluid Check (page 340).
H
UNDER HOOD OVERVIEW - 3.0L Battery.
See Changing the 12V Battery (page 336).
A
Engine oil filler cap.
See Engine Oil Check (page 326).
B
Engine oil dipstick.
See Engine Oil Dipstick (page 326).
C
Brake fluid reservoir.
See Brake Fluid Check (page 335).
D
Engine compartment fuse box.
See Fuses (page 312).
E
Engine coolant reservoir.
See Engine Coolant Check (page 331).
F
324
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing MaintenanceE288092

Air filter assembly. See Changing the Engine Air Filter (page 329).
G
Washer fluid reservoir. See
Washer Fluid Check (page 340).
H
UNDER HOOD OVERVIEW - 3.3L Battery.
See Changing the 12V Battery (page 336).
A.
Engine oil filler cap.
See Engine Oil Check (page 326).
B.
Engine oil dipstick.
See Engine Oil Dipstick (page 326).
C.
Brake fluid reservoir.
See Brake Fluid Check (page 335).
D.
Engine compartment fuse box.
See Fuses (page 312).
E.
Engine coolant reservoir cap.
See Engine Coolant Check (page 331).
F.
Air filter assembly. See
Changing the Engine Air Filter (page 328).
G.
Inverter system controller coolant reservoir cap- HEV only.
H.
Washer fluid reservoir. See
Washer Fluid Check (page 340).
I.
325
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing MaintenanceE288595

8. Install the air filter housing cover.
9. Engage the clips to secure the air filter
housing cover to the air filter housing.
10. Reconnect the boot to the air filter housing cover and torque to 3.69 lb.ft
(5 Nm).
ENGINE COOLANT CHECK WARNING:
Do not remove the
coolant reservoir cap when the engine is
on or the cooling system is hot. Wait 10
minutes for the cooling system to cool
down. Cover the coolant reservoir cap
with a thick cloth to prevent the
possibility of scalding and slowly remove
the cap. Failure to follow this instruction
could result in personal injury. WARNING:
Do not put coolant in
the windshield washer reservoir. If
sprayed on the windshield, coolant could
make it difficult to see through the
windshield. WARNING:
To reduce the risk of
personal injury, make sure the engine is
cool before unscrewing the coolant
pressure relief cap. The cooling system
is under pressure. Steam and hot liquid
can come out forcefully when you loosen
the cap slightly. WARNING:
Do not add coolant
further than the MAX mark.
When the engine is cold, check the
concentration and level of the coolant at
the intervals listed in the scheduled
maintenance information. See Scheduled
Maintenance
(page 482).
Note: Make sure that the coolant level is
between the
MIN and the MAX marks on
the coolant reservoir. Note:
Coolant expands when it is hot. The
level may extend beyond the
MAX mark.
Maintain coolant concentration within
48% to 50%, which equates to a freeze
point between
-29°F (-34°C) and -35°F
(-37°C). Coolant concentration should be
checked using a refractometer. We do not
recommend the use of hydrometers or
coolant test strips for measuring coolant
concentration.
Adding Coolant WARNING:
Do not add engine
coolant when the engine is on or the
cooling system is hot. Failure to follow
this instruction could result in personal
injury. WARNING:
Do not remove the
coolant reservoir cap when the engine is
on or the cooling system is hot. Wait 10
minutes for the cooling system to cool
down. Cover the coolant reservoir cap
with a thick cloth to prevent the
possibility of scalding and slowly remove
the cap. Failure to follow this instruction
could result in personal injury. WARNING:
Do not put coolant in
the windshield washer reservoir. If
sprayed on the windshield, coolant could
make it difficult to see through the
windshield.
Note: Do not use stop leak pellets, cooling
system sealants, or non-specified additives
as they can cause damage to the engine
cooling or heating systems. Resulting
component damage may not be covered by
the vehicle Warranty.
Note: Automotive fluids are not
interchangeable.
331
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing Maintenance

5. Use a suitable tool, for example a
screwdriver or socket wrench, to turn
the adjuster clockwise or
counterclockwise to adjust the vertical
aim of the headlamp. The horizontal
edge of the brighter light should touch
the horizontal reference line.
6. Close the hood and switch off the lamps.
WASHER FLUID CHECK WARNING: If you operate your
vehicle in temperatures below 41.0°F
(5°C), use washer fluid with antifreeze
protection. Failure to use washer fluid
with antifreeze protection in cold
weather could result in impaired
windshield vision and increase the risk
of injury or accident.
Note: The front and rear washer systems
are supplied from the same reservoir.
Add fluid to fill the reservoir if the level is
low. Only use a washer fluid that meets
our specifications. See
Capacities and
Specifications (page 391).
State or local regulations on volatile
organic compounds may restrict the use
of methanol, a common windshield washer
antifreeze additive. Washer fluids
containing non-methanol antifreeze
agents should be used only if they provide
cold weather protection without damaging
the vehicle ’s paint finish, wiper blades or
washer system.
FUEL FILTER
Your vehicle is equipped with a lifetime
fuel filter that is integrated with the fuel
tank. Regular maintenance or replacement
is not needed. CHECKING THE WIPER
BLADES
Run the tip of your fingers over the edge of
the blade to check for roughness.
Clean the wiper blades with washer fluid
or water applied with a soft sponge or
cloth.
CHANGING THE FRONT WIPER
BLADES
You can improve poor wiper quality by
cleaning the wiper blades and the
windshield.
Replace the wiper blades at least annually
for optimum performance.
1. Lift the wiper arm and then press the
wiper blade locking buttons together.
Note: Do not hold the wiper blade to lift the
wiper arm.
340
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Check Every Month
Engine oil level.
Function of all interior and exterior lights.
Tires (including spare) for wear and proper pressure. Windshield washer fluid level.
Holes and slots in the tail pipe to make sure they are functional and clear of debris. Check Every Six Months
Battery connections. Clean if necessary.
Body and door drain holes for obstructions. Clean if necessary. Cooling system fluid level and coolant strength.
Door weatherstrips for wear. Lubricate if necessary.
Hinges, latches and outside locks for proper operation. Lubricate if necessary. Parking brake for proper operation.
Seatbelts and seat latches for wear and function.
Safety warning lamps (brake, ABS, airbag and seatbelt) for operation.
Washer spray and wiper operation. Clean or replace blades as necessary.
Multi-Point Inspection
In order to keep your vehicle running right,
it is important to have the systems on your
vehicle checked regularly. This can help
identify potential issues and prevent major
problems. We recommend having the
following multi-point inspection performed
at every scheduled maintenance interval
to help make sure your vehicle keeps
running great.
484
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing Scheduled Maintenance

Multi-Point Inspection
Hazard warning system operation
Accessory drive belt(s)
Horn operation
Battery performance
Radiator, cooler, heater and air conditioninghoses
Engine air filter
Suspension components for leaks ordamage
Exhaust system
Steering and linkage
Exterior lamps operation
Tires (including spare) for wear and properpressure2
Fluid levels 1
; fill if necessary
Windshield for cracks, chips or pits
For oil and fluid leaks
Washer spray and wiper operation
Half-shaft dust boots
1 Brake, coolant recovery reservoir, automatic transmission and window washer
2 If your vehicle is equipped with a temporary mobility kit, check the tire sealant expiration
Use By date on the canister. Replace as needed.
Be sure to ask your dealership service
advisor or technician about the multi-point
vehicle inspection. It is a comprehensive
way to perform a thorough inspection of
your vehicle. Your checklist gives you
immediate feedback on the overall
condition of your vehicle.
NORMAL SCHEDULED
MAINTENANCE
Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor™
Your vehicle has an Intelligent Oil-Life
Monitor that determines when you should
change the engine oil based on how you
use your vehicle. By using several
important factors in its calculations, the
monitor helps reduce the cost of owning
your vehicle and reduces environmental
waste at the same time. This means you do not have to remember
to change the oil on a mileage-based
schedule. Your vehicle lets you know when
an oil change is due by displaying a
message in the information display.
The following table provides examples of
vehicle use and its impact on oil change
intervals. It is a guideline only. Actual oil
change intervals depend on several factors
and generally decrease with severity of
use.
485
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing Scheduled Maintenance

Blind Spot Information System.............264
Blind Spot Information System with Trailer
Tow.................................................................... 266
Switching the System On and Off..............268
System Errors...................................................... 268
Using the Blind Spot Information System.............................................................. 265
BLIS See: Blind Spot Information System.........264
Body Styling Kits.........................................350
Bonnet Lock See: Opening and Closing the Hood...........322
Booster Seats..................................................33 Types of Booster Seats...................................... 33
Brake Fluid Check........................................335 Brake Fluid Service Interval........................... 336
Brakes...............................................................214 General Information.......................................... 214
Breaking-In....................................................296 Brakes and Clutch............................................. 296
Tires........................................................................\
296
Bulb Specification Chart...........................419
C
Canceling the Set Speed..........................245
Capacities and Specifications - 2.3L EcoBoost™..................................................391
Air Conditioning System.................................. 391
Alternative Engine Oil for Extremely Cold Climates........................................................... 394
Automatic Transmission................................. 392
Engine Coolant................................................... 393
Engine Oil.............................................................. 393
Front Axle............................................................. 396
Fuel Tank.............................................................. 395
Grease.................................................................... 395
Hydraulic Brake System.................................. 395
Locks...................................................................... 395
Rear Axle............................................................... 397
Transfer Case...................................................... 396
Washer Reservoir............................................... 397
Capacities and Specifications - 3.0L................................................................398
Air Conditioning System................................. 398
Alternative Engine Oil for Extremely Cold Climates............................................................ 401
Automatic Transmission................................ 399Engine Coolant..................................................
400
Engine Oil............................................................. 400
Front Axle............................................................. 403
Fuel Tank.............................................................. 402
Grease.................................................................... 402
Hydraulic Brake System.................................. 402
Locks...................................................................... 402
Rear Axle.............................................................. 404
Transfer Case...................................................... 403
Washer Reservoir.............................................. 404
Capacities and Specifications - 3.3L, Gasoline.......................................................405
Air Conditioning System................................. 405
Alternative Engine Oil for Extremely Cold Climates.......................................................... 408
Automatic Transmission................................ 406
Engine Coolant................................................... 407
Engine Oil.............................................................. 407
Front Axle.............................................................. 410
Fuel Tank.............................................................. 409
Grease................................................................... 409
Hydraulic Brake System................................. 409
Locks...................................................................... 409
Rear Axle................................................................. 411
Transfer Case....................................................... 410
Washer Reservoir................................................. 411
Capacities and Specifications - 3.3L, Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)...............412
Air Conditioning System................................... 412
Alternative Engine Oil for Extremely Cold Climates............................................................ 415
Automatic Transmission.................................. 413
Engine Coolant.................................................... 414
Engine Oil.............................................................. 414
Front Axle............................................................... 417
Fuel Tank............................................................... 416
Grease..................................................................... 416
Hydraulic Brake System................................... 416
Locks....................................................................... 416
Rear Axle................................................................ 418
Transfer Case........................................................ 417
Washer Reservoir................................................ 418
Capacities and Specifications................382
Cargo Nets
.....................................................280
Car Wash See: Cleaning the Exterior.............................. 344
Catalytic Converter......................................197 On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II)................... 198
561
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing Index