FORD TRANSIT CONNECT 2013 1.G Owners Manual

If you drive in extremely hot climates:
•It may be necessary to have a Ford authorized dealer decrease the
coolant concentration to 40%.
•A coolant concentration of 40% will provide improved overheat
protection. Engine coolant concentrations below 40% will decrease the
corrosion/freeze protection characteristics of the engine coolant and
may cause engine damage.
Vehicles driven year-round in non-extreme climates should use
prediluted engine coolant for optimum cooling system and engine
protection.
What you should know about fail-safe cooling (if equipped)
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.
WARNING:If fail-safe cooling activates, pull off the road as soon
as safely possible, and turn the engine off, because the engine
may automatically shut off while driving without further indication.
How fail-safe cooling works
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:
•The engine will completely shut down.
•Steering and braking effort will 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.
180Maintenance
2013 Transit Connect(tst)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2012
USA(fus)

When fail-safe mode is activated
You have limited engine power when in the fail-safe mode, so drive the
vehicle with caution. The vehicle will not be able to maintain high speed
operation and the engine will run rough. Remember that the engine is
capable of completely shutting down automatically to prevent engine
damage, therefore:
1. Pull off the road as soon as safely possible and turn off the engine.
2. Arrange for the vehicle to be taken to an authorized dealer.
3. If this is not possible, wait a short period for the engine to cool.
4. Check the coolant level and replenish if low.
WARNING:Never remove the coolant reservoir cap while the
engine is running or hot.
5. Restart the engine and take your vehicle to an authorized dealer.
Driving the vehicle without repairing the engine problem
increases the chance of engine damage. Take your vehicle to an
authorized dealer as soon as possible.
TRANSMISSION FLUID CHECK
Checking Automatic Transmission Fluid
Refer to yourScheduled Maintenanceinformation for scheduled
intervals for fluid checks and changes. Your transmission does not
consume fluid. However, the fluid level should be checked if the
transmission is not working properly, i.e., if the transmission slips
or shifts slowly or if you notice some sign of fluid leakage.
Automatic transmission fluid expands when warmed. Check the
transmission fluid when the fluid is at normal operating temperature
(120°F-140°F [50°C-60°C]) on a level surface. The normal operating
temperature can be reached after approximately 20 miles (30 km) of
driving. If your vehicle has been operated for an extended period at
high speeds, in city traffic, or during hot weather, the vehicle should be
turned off for about 30 minutes to allow fluid to cool before checking.
Under these conditions, the vehicle must be restarted prior to checking
the fluid level.
1. Drive the vehicle 20 miles (30 km) or until it reaches normal operating
temperature.
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Maintenance181
2013 Transit Connect(tst)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2012
USA(fus)

3. With the engine running, the parking brake engaged, and your foot on
the brake pedal, move the gearshift lever through all of the gear ranges.
Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage.
4. Place the gearshift lever in P (Park) and leave the engine running.
5. Remove the dipstick, wiping it clean with a clean, dry lint free rag.
If necessary, refer toUnder Hood Overviewin this chapter for the
location of the dipstick.
6. Install the dipstick making sure it is fully seated in the filler tube.
7. Remove the dipstick and inspect the fluid level. The fluid should be in
the designated areas for normal operating temperature.
Low fluid level
Do not drive the vehicle if the
fluid level is at the bottom of the
dipstick. If the fluid level is below
the MIN mark, add fluid in 1/2 pint
(250 ml) increments.
Correct Fluid Level
The transmission fluid should be
in this range when the fluid is at
normal operating temperature
(120°F-140°F [50°C-60°C]).
MIN
MAX
MIN
MAX
182Maintenance
2013 Transit Connect(tst)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2012
USA(fus)

High Fluid Level
Fluid levels above the safe range
may result in transmission failure.
An overfill condition of transmission
fluid may cause shift and/or
engagement concerns and/or
possible damage.
High fluid levels can be caused by
an overheating condition.
Adjusting Automatic Transmission Fluid Levels
Before adding any fluid, make sure the correct type is used. The type
of fluid used is normally indicated on the dipstick and also in the
Capacities and Specificationschapter.
Note:Use of a non-approved automatic transmission fluid may cause
internal transmission component damage.
If necessary, add fluid in 1/2 pint (250 ml) increments through the filler
tube until the level is correct. After adding fluid, wait 20 minutes before
checking the fluid level in order to allow the level to stabilize.
If an overfill occurs, excess fluid
should be removed by an authorized
dealer. If the fluid level is above the
MAX mark, fluid will have to be
removed.
Note:An overfill condition of
transmission fluid may cause shift
and/or engagement concerns and/or
possible damage.
Note:Do not use supplemental transmission fluid additives, treatments
or cleaning agents. The use of these materials may affect transmission
operation and result in damage to internal transmission components.
Electric vehicles
For specific information on the Transit Connect Electric, refer to the
Azure Dynamics TC-E Owner’s GuideSupplement.
MIN
MAX
MIN
MAX
Maintenance183
2013 Transit Connect(tst)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2012
USA(fus)

BRAKE FLUID CHECK
Fluid levels between the MIN and MAX lines are within the normal
operating range; there is no need to add fluid. If the fluid levels are
outside of the normal operating range, the performance of the system
could be compromised; seek service from your authorized dealer
immediately.
POWER STEERING FLUID CHECK
Check the power steering fluid at the proper intervals. Refer to
Scheduled Maintenance Information.
1. Start the engine and let it run until it reaches normal operating
temperature.
2. Turn the steering wheel left and right several times.
3. Turn the engine off.
4. Check the fluid level.
5. If the fluid is below the MIN line, add fluid in small amounts until it
reaches the correct level (between the MIN and MAX lines). Refer to
Capacities and Specificationsfor the proper fluid type.
Electric vehicles
For specific information on the Transit Connect Electric, refer to the
Azure Dynamics TC-E Owner’s GuideSupplement.
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.
WASHER FLUID CHECK
WARNING:If you operate your vehicle in temperatures below
40°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.
Add fluid to fill the reservoir if the level is low. Only use a washer fluid
that meets Ford specifications. See the technical specifications chart in
theCapacities and Specificationschapter.
Note:The front and rear washer systems are supplied from the same
reservoir.
184Maintenance
2013 Transit Connect(tst)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2012
USA(fus)

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.
CHANGING THE VEHICLE BATTERY
WARNING:Batteries normally produce explosive gases which
can cause personal injury. Therefore, do not allow flames, sparks
or lighted substances to come near the battery. When working near the
battery, always shield your face and protect your eyes. Always provide
proper ventilation.
WARNING:When lifting a plastic-cased battery, excessive
pressure on the end walls could cause acid to flow through the
vent caps, resulting in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or
battery. Lift the battery with a battery carrier or with your hands on
opposite corners.
WARNING:Keep batteries out of reach of children. Batteries
contain sulfuric acid. Avoid contact with skin, eyes or clothing.
Shield your eyes when working near the battery to protect against
possible splashing of acid solution. In case of acid contact with skin or
eyes, flush immediately with water for a minimum of 15 minutes and
get prompt medical attention. If acid is swallowed, call a physician
immediately.
WARNING:Battery posts, terminals and related accessories
contain lead and lead compounds. Wash hands after handling.
Your vehicle is equipped with a Motorcraft® maintenance-free battery
which normally does not require additional water during its life of
service.
Note:If your battery has a cover/shield, make sure it is reinstalled after
the battery has been cleaned or replaced.
For longer, trouble-free operation, keep the top of the battery clean and
dry. Also, make certain the battery cables are always tightly fastened to
the battery terminals.
Maintenance185
2013 Transit Connect(tst)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2012
USA(fus)

If you see any corrosion on the battery or terminals, remove the cables
from the terminals and clean with a wire brush. You can neutralize the
acid with a solution of baking soda and water.
It is recommended that the negative battery cable terminal be
disconnected from the battery if you plan to store your vehicle for an
extended period of time.
Note:Electrical or electronic accessories or components added to
the vehicle by the dealer or the owner may adversely affect battery
performance and durability and may also affect the performance of other
electrical systems in the vehicle.
When a battery replacement is required, the battery should only be
replaced with a Ford recommended replacement battery that matches
the electrical requirements of the vehicle.
When the battery is disconnected or a new battery installed, the
automatic transmission must relearn its adaptive strategy. As a result of
this, the transmission may shift firmly when first driven. This operation
is considered normal and 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.
Note: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.
Because your vehicle’s engine is electronically controlled by a computer,
some control conditions are maintained by power from the battery. When
the battery is disconnected or a new battery is installed, the engine must
relearn its idle and fuel trim strategy for optimum driveability and
performance. To begin this process:
1. With the vehicle at a complete stop, set the parking brake.
2.
Put the gearshift in P (Park), turn off all accessories and start the engine.
3. Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature.
4. Allow the engine to idle for at least one minute.
5. Turn the A/C on and allow the engine to idle for at least one minute.
186Maintenance
2013 Transit Connect(tst)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2012
USA(fus)

6. Drive the vehicle to complete the relearning process.
•The vehicle may need to be driven 10 miles (16 km) or more to
relearn the idle and fuel trim strategy.
•Note:If you do not allow the engine to relearn its idle trim, the idle
quality of your vehicle may be adversely affected until the idle trim is
eventually relearned.
If the battery has been disconnected or a new battery has been installed,
the clock and radio settings must be reset once the battery is reconnected.
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.
Rear window wiper blades (if equipped)
Refer toChanging the wiper bladesin this section and follow the same
procedure given for checking and changing the wiper blades.
Maintenance187
2013 Transit Connect(tst)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2012
USA(fus)

AIR FILTER CHECK
WARNING:To reduce the risk of vehicle damage and or
personal burn injuries, do not start your engine with the air
cleaner removed and do not remove it while the engine is running.
Note:Failure to use the correct air filter element may result in severe
engine damage. The customer warranty may be void for any damage to
the engine if the correct air filter element is not used.
When changing the air filter element, use only the air filter element
listed. SeeMotorcraft® Part Numbersin theCapacities and
Specificationschapter.
SeeScheduled Maintenance Informationfor the appropriate intervals
for changing the air filter element.
Note:Failure to use the correct air filter element may result in severe
engine damage. The customer warranty may be void for any damage to
the engine if the correct air filter element is not used.
Changing the Air Filter Element
1. Release the clamps that secure
the air filter housing cover.
2. Carefully separate the two halves
of the air filter housing.
3. Remove the air filter element
from the air filter housing.
4. Wipe the air filter housing and
cover clean to remove any dirt or
debris and to ensure good sealing.
5. Install a new air filter element. Be careful not to crimp the filter
element edges between the air filter housing and cover. This could cause
filter damage and allow unfiltered air to enter the engine if not properly
seated.
6. Replace the air filter housing cover and secure the clamps. Be sure
that the air cleaner cover tabs are engaged into the slots of the air
cleaner housing.
188Maintenance
2013 Transit Connect(tst)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2012
USA(fus)

ADJUSTING THE HEADLAMPS
The headlamps on your vehicle are properly aimed at the assembly plant.
If your vehicle has been in an accident, the alignment of your headlamps
should be checked by your authorized dealer.
Vertical Aim Adjustment
1. Park the vehicle directly in front of a wall or screen on a level surface,
approximately 25 feet (7.6 meters) away.
•(A) 8 feet (2.4 meters)
•(B) Center height of lamp to
ground
•(C) 25 feet (7.6 meters)
•(D) Horizontal reference line
2. Measure the height of the headlamp bulb center from the ground and
mark an 8 foot (2.4 meter) horizontal reference line on the vertical wall
or screen at this height.
3. Turn on the low beam headlamps to illuminate the wall or screen and
open the hood.
To see a clearer light pattern for adjusting, you may want to block the
light from one headlamp while adjusting the other.
On the wall or screen you will
observe a flat zone of high intensity
light located at the top of the right
hand portion of the beam pattern.
If the top edge of the high intensity
light zone is not at the horizontal
reference line, the headlamp will
need to be adjusted.
C
A
B
D
Maintenance189
2013 Transit Connect(tst)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, November 2012
USA(fus)