reset FORD FLEX 2013 1.G Owner's Manual

When a vehicle ahead of you enters the same lane or a slower vehicle is
ahead in the same lane, the vehicle speed will adjust automatically to
maintain a preset gap distance. The distance setting is adjustable.
The lead vehicle graphic will be illuminated.
The vehicle will maintain a constant distance between the vehicle ahead
until:
•the vehicle in front of you accelerates to a speed above the set speed
•the vehicle in front of you moves out of your lane or out of view
•the vehicle speed falls below 16 mph (26 km/h)
•a new gap distance is set.
The vehicle brakes will be automatically applied to slow the vehicle to
maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. The maximum braking
which is applied by the system is limited and can be overridden by the
driver applying the brakes.
If the system predicts that its maximum braking level will not be
sufficient, an audible warning will sound while the system continues to
brake. This is accompanied by a heads-up display; a red warning bar
illuminating on the windshield. The driver should take immediate action.
Setting the Gap Distance
Note:It is the driver’s responsibility to select a gap appropriate to the
driving conditions.
The distance between your vehicle
and the vehicle in front of you can
be decreased or increased by
pressing the GAP control up or
down. The selected gap will be
displayed in the message center as shown by the bars in the graphic.
Four gap distance settings are available.
Graphic
display (bars
between
vehicles)Following
distanceFollowing
distance at
60 mph
(100 km/h)Dynamic
behavior
1 bar 1 second 29 yards (28 m) Sporty
2 bars 1.5 seconds 44 yards (42 m) Normal
3 bars 1.9 seconds 56 yards (53 m) Normal
4 bars 2.3 seconds 66 yards (64 m) Comfort
Cruise Control243
2013 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

System Sensors
WARNING:Just prior to the system recognizing a blocked
condition and alerting the driver, the number of missed objects
will increase. To help avoid injuries, NEVER use the BLISas a
replacement for using the side and rear view mirrors and looking over
your shoulder before changing lanes. BLISis not a replacement for
careful driving and only an assist.
Note:It is possible to get a blockage warning with no blockage present;
this is rare and known as a false blockage warning. A false blocked
condition either self-corrects or clears after a key cycle.
The system uses radar sensors
which are located behind the
bumper fascia on each side of the
vehicle. Do not allow these areas to
become obstructed by mud, snow or
bumper stickers, as this can cause
degraded system performance.
If the system detects a degraded performance condition,BLIND SPOT
NOT AVAILABLE,orCROSS TRAFFIC NOT AVAILABLEappear in
the information display and the alert indicator illuminates in the
appropriate mirror(s). The information display warning can be cleared
but the alert indicator remains illuminated.
When the blockage is removed, the system can be reset in two ways: 1)
when at least two objects are detected while driving, or 2) turn the
ignition key from on to off, then back on. If the blockage is still present
after the key cycle, the system senses again that it is blocked after
driving in traffic.
252Driving Aids
2013 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

Reasons for messages being displayed
The radar surface is
dirty or obstructedClean the fascia area in front of the radar or
remove the obstruction.
The radar surface is
not dirty or obstructedDrive normally in traffic for a few minutes to
allow the radar to detect passing vehicles so it
can clear the blocked state.
Heavy rainfall/snowfall
interferes with the
radar signalsNo action required. The system automatically
resets to an unblocked state once the
rainfall/snowfall rate decreases or stops. Do
not use BLISand/or CTA in these conditions.
System Limitations
The BLISand CTA systems do have their limitations; situations such as
severe weather conditions or debris build-up on the sensor area may
limit vehicle detection.
The following are other situations that may limit the BLIS:
•Certain maneuvering of vehicles entering and exiting the blind zone.
•Vehicles passing through the blind zone at very fast rates.
•When several vehicles forming a convoy pass through the blind zone.
The following are other situations that may limit the CTA system:
•Adjacently parked vehicles or objects obstructing the sensors.
•Approaching vehicles passing at speeds greater than 15 mph
(24 km/h).
•Driving in reverse faster than 3 mph (5 km/h).
•Backing out of an angled parking spot.
False Alerts
Note:When towing a trailer, the sensors detect may detect the trailer,
causing a false alert. You may want to turn the BLISoff if the false
alerts become annoying.
There may be certain instances when either the BLISor CTA systems
illuminate the alert indicator with no vehicle in the coverage zone; this is
known as a false alert. Some amount of false alerts are normal; they are
temporary and self-correct.
Driving Aids253
2013 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

STEERING
Electric Power Steering
WARNING:The electric power steering system has diagnostic
checks that continuously monitor the system to ensure proper
operation. When a system error is detected the following message
Service Power Steering, Service Power Steering Now or Power Steering
Assist Fault may appear in the information display.
WARNING:The electric power steering system has diagnostics
checks that continuously monitor the system to ensure proper
operation of the electronic system. When an electronic error is
detected, Power Steering Assist Fault will be displayed in the
information display. If this happens, stop the vehicle in a safe place, and
turn off the engine. After at least 10 seconds, reset the system by
restarting the engine, and watch the information display for Power
Steering Assist Fault. If the message returns, or returns while driving,
take the vehicle to your dealer to have it checked. With the message
displayed, the steering assist is turned off, making the vehicle harder to
steer.
WARNING:If Service Power Steering is displayed in the
information display, a problem with the system function has been
detected. On the next key cycle Service Power Steering Now will be
displayed and steering assist will be removed until the steering system
is serviced. Have your vehicle taken to the nearest dealer as soon as
possible.
WARNING:Obtain immediate service if a system error is
detected. You may not notice any difference in the feel of your
steering, but a serious condition may exist. Failure to do so may result
in loss of steering control.
258Driving Aids
2013 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

What you should know about fail-safe cooling
If the engine coolant supply is depleted, this feature allows the vehicle to
be driven temporarily before incremental component damage is incurred.
The “fail-safe” distance depends on ambient temperatures, vehicle load
and terrain.
How fail-safe cooling works
If the engine begins to overheat, the engine coolant temperature gauge
will move to the red (hot) area and:
The coolant temperature warning light will illuminate.
The service engine soon indicator will illuminate.
If the engine reaches a preset over-temperature condition, the engine will
automatically switch to alternating cylinder operation. Each disabled
cylinder acts as an air pump and cools the engine.
When this occurs the vehicle will still operate. However:
•The engine power will be limited.
•The air conditioning system will be disabled.
Continued operation will increase the engine temperature and the engine
will completely shut down, causing steering and braking effort to
increase.
Once the engine temperature cools, the engine can be re-started. Take
your vehicle to an authorized dealer as soon as possible to minimize
engine damage.
When fail-safe mode is activated
WARNING:Fail-safe mode is for use during emergencies only.
Operate the vehicle in fail-safe mode only as long as necessary to
bring the vehicle to rest in a safe location and seek immediate repairs.
When in fail-safe mode, the vehicle will have limited power, will not be
able to maintain high-speed operation, and may completely shut down
without warning, potentially losing engine power, power steering assist,
and power brake assist, which may increase the possibility of a crash
resulting in serious injury.
312Maintenance
2013 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

When the battery is disconnected or a new battery installed, the
transmission must relearn its adaptive strategy. As a result of this, the
transmission may shift firmly. This operation is considered normal and
will not affect function or durability of the transmission. Over time the
adaptive learning process will fully update transmission operation to its
optimum shift feel.
If the battery has been disconnected or a new battery has been installed,
the clock and the preset radio stations must be reset once the battery is
reconnected.
Always dispose of automotive batteries in a responsible manner. Follow
your local authorized standards for disposal. Call your local authorized
recycling center to find out more about recycling automotive batteries.
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 WIPER BLADES
1. Pull the wiper arm away from the
vehicle. Turn the blade at an angle
from the wiper arm. Press the lock
tab to release the blade and pull the
wiper blade down toward the
windshield to remove it from the arm.
2. Attach the new wiper to the wiper
arm and press it into place until a
click is heard.
Replace wiper blades at least once per year for optimum performance.
Poor wiper quality can be improved by cleaning the wiper blades and the
windshield.
To prolong the life of the wiper blades, it is highly recommended to
scrape off the ice on the windshield before turning on the wipers. The
layer of ice has many sharp edges and can damage the micro edge of the
wiper rubber element.
320Maintenance
2013 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

•Start the engine every 15 days. Run at fast idle until it reaches normal
operating temperature.
•With your foot on the brake, shift through all the gears while the
engine is running.
Fuel system
•Fill the fuel tank with high-quality fuel until the first automatic shutoff
of the fuel pump nozzle.
Note:During extended periods of vehicle storage (30 days or more), fuel
may deteriorate due to oxidation. Add a quality gas stabilizer product to
the vehicle fuel system whenever actual or expected storage periods
exceed 30 days. Follow the instructions on the additive label. The vehicle
should then be operated at idle speed to circulate the additive
throughout the fuel system.
Cooling system
•Protect against freezing temperatures.
•When removing vehicle from storage, check coolant fluid level.
Confirm there are no cooling system leaks, and fluid is at the
recommended level.
Battery
•Check and recharge as necessary. Keep connections clean.
•If storing your vehicle for more than 30 days without recharging the
battery, it may be advisable to disconnect the battery cables to ensure
battery charge is maintained for quick starting.
Note:If battery cables are disconnected, it will be necessary to reset
memory features.
Brakes
•Make sure brakes and parking brake are fully released.
Tires
•Maintain recommended air pressure.
Miscellaneous
•Make sure all linkages, cables, levers and pins under vehicle are
covered with grease to prevent rust.
•Move vehicles at least 25 feet (8 m) every 15 days to lubricate
working parts and prevent corrosion.
Vehicle Care337
2013 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

Convenience
Many dealerships have extended evening and Saturday hours to make
your service visit more convenient and they offer one stop shopping.
They can perform any services that are required on your vehicle, from
general maintenance to collision repairs.
Note:Not all dealers have extended hours or bodyshops. Please contact
your dealer for details.
Protecting Your Investment
Maintenance is an investment that will pay dividends in the form of
improved reliability, durability and resale value. To maintain the proper
performance of your vehicle and its emission control systems, it is
imperative that scheduled maintenance be completed at the designated
intervals.
Your vehicle is equipped with the Intelligent Oil Life Monitor™ (IOLM)
system which displays a message in the message center at the proper oil
change service interval; this interval may be up to one year or
10,000 miles (16,000 km). When ENGINE OIL CHANGE DUE or OIL
CHANGE REQUIRED appears in the message center display, it’s time for
an oil change; the oil change must be done within two weeks or
500 miles (800 km) of the ENGINE OIL CHANGE DUE or OIL CHANGE
REQUIRED message appearing. The Intelligent Oil Life Monitor™ must
be reset after each oil change; refer to theInstrument Clusterchapter.
If your message center is prematurely reset or becomes inoperative, you
should perform the oil change interval at six months or 5,000 miles
(8,000 km) from your last oil change.
Your vehicle is very sophisticated and built with multiple complex
performance systems. Every manufacturer develops these systems using
different specifications and performance features. That’s why it’s
important to rely upon your dealership to properly diagnose and repair
your vehicle.
Ford Motor Company has recommended maintenance intervals for
various parts and component systems based upon engineering testing.
Ford Motor Company relies upon this testing to determine the most
appropriate mileage for replacement of oils and fluids to protect your
vehicle at the lowest overall cost to you and recommends against
maintenance schedules that deviate from the scheduled maintenance
information.
Ford strongly recommends the using only genuine Ford, Motorcraftor
Ford-authorized remanufactured replacement for parts because they are
engineered for your vehicle.
Scheduled Maintenance385
2013 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

Normal Scheduled Maintenance - At every oil change interval as
indicated by the message center
Change engine oil and filter
Rotate tires, inspect tire wear and measure tread depth
Perform multi-point inspection (recommended)
Inspect automatic transmission fluid level (if equipped with dipstick);
consult dealer for requirements
Inspect brake pads, shoes, rotors, drums, brake linings, hoses and
parking brake
Inspect cabin air filter (if equipped)
Inspect engine cooling system strength and hoses
Inspect exhaust system and heat shields
Inspect rear axle and U-joints; lubricate if equipped with grease fittings
(AWD vehicles)
Inspect half-shaft boots (if equipped)
Inspect steering linkage, ball joints, suspension, tie-rod ends, driveshaft
and U-joints; lubricate if equipped with grease fittings
Inspect wheels and related components for abnormal noise, wear,
looseness or drag
Reset your Intelligent Oil Life Monitor™ after each engine oil and filter
change; refer to theInstrument Clusterchapter
Do not exceed one year or 10,000 miles (16,000 km) between
service intervals
390Scheduled Maintenance
2013 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

SPECIAL OPERATING CONDITIONS
If you operate your vehicleprimarilyin any of the following conditions,
you need to perform additional maintenance as indicated. If you
occasionallyoperate your vehicle under any of these conditions, it is
not necessary to perform the additional maintenance. For specific
recommendations, see your dealership service advisor or technician.
Perform the services shown in the following tables when specified or
within 3,000 miles (4,800 km) of the OIL CHANGE REQUIRED message
appearing in the message center.
Example #1:The OIL CHANGE REQUIRED message comes on at
28,751 miles (46,270 km); perform the 30,000 mile (48,000 km)
automatic transmission fluid replacement.
Example #2:The OIL CHANGE REQUIRED message hasnotcome on
but the odometer reads 30,000 miles (48,000 km); perform the engine air
filter replacement. (i.e., Intelligent Oil Life Monitor™ was reset at
25,000 miles [40,000 km].)
Towing a trailer or using a camper or car-top carrier
As required Change engine oil and filter as indicated by
message center and perform services listed in the
Normal Scheduled Maintenance chart
Inspect frequently,
service as requiredInspect and lubricate U-joints
See axle maintenance items underExceptions
Every 30,000 miles
(48,000 km)Change automatic transmission fluid (except
Focus)
Every 60,000 miles
(96,000 km)Change manual transmission fluid
Extensive idling and/or low-speed driving for long distances as
in heavy commercial use (i.e. delivery, taxi, patrol car or livery)
As required Change engine oil and filter as indicated by
message center and perform services listed in the
Normal Scheduled Maintenance chart
Inspect frequently,
service as requiredReplace cabin air filter (if equipped)
Replace engine air filter
Every 30,000 miles
(48,000 km)Change automatic transmission fluid (except
Focus)
Every 60,000 miles
(96,000 km)Replace spark plugs
Scheduled Maintenance395
2013 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing
USA(fus)