Mercury Milan 2010 Owner's Manuals

BLIND SPOT INFORMATION SYSTEM (BLIS) WITH CROSS
TRAFFIC ALERT (CTA) (IF EQUIPPED)
The BLISis a convenience feature
that aids the driver in assessing
whether a vehicle is within an area
on either side of the vehicle
extending rearward from the outside
mirrors to approximately 10 feet
(three meters) beyond the bumper.
This area is referred to as the blind
zone. The BLISwill alert the driver
to the presence of motorized
vehicles in these areas while driving
on roads and freeways.
The system is not designed to
prevent contact with other vehicles
or objects. The system is designed
to provide a warning to assist the
driver in detecting vehicles in the blind zones. The system will not detect
infrastructure, pedestrians, or cyclists.
WARNING: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.
The BLIShas an yellow indicator
(also referred to as the alert)
located in the left and right exterior
mirrors. When the vehicle is started,
the BLISautomatically illuminates
both indicators for several seconds
indicating the system is operating.
The first time you place the
transmission in D (Drive) after starting the engine and drive forward at a
speed greater than 3 mph (5 km/h) the BLISbecomes active.
Afterwards, the BLIS remains active for all speeds including 0 mph
(0 km/h). BLISis also active if the transmission is placed in N
(Neutral). If the transmission is shifted out of D (Drive) or N (Neutral)
the system will enter the CTA mode (see CTA operation below). Once
shifted back in to D (Drive) the BLISmode will activate once driven
above 3 mph (5 km/h).
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The BLISwill trigger the alert for vehicles that enter your blind zone
from the rear or merge in to the blind zone from the side. Vehicles that
you pass, or a vehicle that enters the blind zone from the front, will
trigger the alert only after the vehicle is present in the blind zone for
three seconds.Note:For vehicles that pass through the blind zone
quickly, typically less then two seconds, the BLISwill not illuminate the
alert.
The BLISconsists of two radar
sensors each located rearward of
the rear wheel hidden behind the
bumper fascia. Do not place any
type of bumper sticker in this area.
Note:The BLIStypically will not
detect parked vehicles, humans,
animals, or infrastructure (fences,
guard rails, trees, etc.). The BLIS
does not function when the transmission is in R (Reverse) or P (Park).
The BLISdoes not provide any additional warning when your turn
signal is activated.
BLISdetection limitations:Due to the nature of radar technology,
there may be certain instances where vehicles entering and exiting the
blind spot zones may not be detected. Below is a list of circumstances
that may cause non-detection:
•Debris build up on the rear quarter panel fascias
•Certain maneuvering of vehicles entering and exiting the blind zone
•Vehicles passing through the blind zone at very fast rates
•Severe weather conditions
•When several vehicles forming a convoy pass through the blind zone.
BLISFalse Alerts
Due to the nature of radar technology, there may be certain instances
when the BLISwill alert with no object present in the blind zone. This
is known as a false alert. Some level of false alerts are normal.
Circumstances that may cause a false alert are guardrails, freeway
concrete walls, cyclone fencing, sharp turns around a pole or building, or
coming to a stop with a vehicle directly behind but very close. False
alerts are temporary and self correct.
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Cross traffic alert (CTA) system operation
The CTA system warns the driver of approaching vehicles when R
(Reverse) is selected and the vehicle is backing out of a front-in parking
spot. It sounds a series of tones and flashes the BLISindicator found on
the exterior mirror on the side of the approaching vehicle. Additionally,
the message center will display either, VEHICLE COMING FROM RIGHT
or VEHICLE COMING FROM LEFT to warn the driver from which
direction vehicles are approaching.
The system is not designed to prevent contact with other vehicles or
objects. The system is designed to provide a warning to assist the driver
in detecting vehicles in the blind zones. The system will not detect
infrastructure, pedestrians, or bicyclists.
WARNING:To help avoid personal injury, NEVER use the CTA
system as a replacement for using the side and rear view mirrors
and looking over your shoulder before backing out of a parking space.
CTA is not a replacement for careful driving and only an assist.
The CTA system detects vehicles approaching up to 45 feet (14 meters)
away (approximately the width of five parking spaces). Coverage
decreases when vehicles and objects in close proximity block the CTA
sensors (refer to figure for approximate zone coverage areas[sensor
obstructed to vehicle on left]). Backing slowly from the parking spot
in these situations helps to increase the sensor coverage and
effectiveness.
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CTA coverage also decreases when parking at shallow angles (refer to
figure for approximate zone coverage areas[sensor obstructed to
vehicle on left]).
CTA detection limitations:Due to the nature of radar technology,
there may be certain instances where vehicles entering and exiting the
blind spot zones may not be detected. Below is a list of circumstances
that may cause non detection:
•Debris build up on the rear quarter panel fascias
•The rear quarter panel radar beams are obstructed or partially
obstructed by an adjacently parked vehicle or object.
•
Approaching vehicles passing at speeds greater than 15 mph (24 km/h)
•Severe weather conditions
•Driving in reverse faster than 3 mph (5 km/h)
•Backing out of an angled parking spot
CTA False Alerts
Due to the nature of radar technology, there may be certain instances
when the BLISwill alert with no object present when backing up. This
is known as a false alert. Some level of false alerts are normal.
Circumstances that may cause a false alert when backing up are backing
out of a garage, backing in to a parking space, and objects very close to
the sensor. False alerts are temporary and self correct.
CTA and Reverse Sensing System (RSS) interaction
CTA works along with the Reverse Sensing System (RSS) (if equipped).
Become familiar with the warning tones of both systems.
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BLIS-CTA on/off and disable operation
The BLISand/or the CTA can be turned off via the message center.
Turning the BLISoff does not turn off the CTA and vice-versa. If either
the BLISor CTA is turned off, the systems will automatically turn back on
at the next ignition key cycle. When either the BLISor CTA is turned off,
the message center displays BLIND SPOT SYS OFF and/or CTA SYSTEM
OFF. When the BLISor CTA system is off, the driver will not receive
alerts. Refer toMessage centerin theInstrument Clusterchapter.
The BLIS-CTA can be disabled permanently even after an ignition key
cycle. This must be done by your dealership service technician.
Once either of the systems are disabled, enabling must also be performed
at the dealership. When disabled, the message center will display BLIND
SPOT DISABLED and/or CTA DISABLED.
BLIS-CTA fault operation
If the BLIS-CTA senses a fault on either the left or right sensor, the
BLISalert indicator will go ON and remain ON and the message center
will display BLIND SPOT SYSTEM FAULT or CROSS TRAFFIC SYSTEM
FAULT. For faults that may cause the associated left or right alert
indicator not to illuminate, only the message center faults will occur.
Blocked sensor
An extreme build up of materials on
the left and/or right quarter panel
fascias such as mud or snow can
cause degraded performance of the
BLIS. Also, heavy rain can cause
the same effect. The BLIScan
detect this degraded performance
and issue a blocked warning to the driver via the message center. If
condition is determined by the system, the message center displays
BLIND SPOT NOT AVAILABLE or CROSS TRAFFIC NOT AVAILABLE
warning and the appropriate left and/or right exterior mirror alert
indicator will illuminate. The message center warning may be cleared by
the driver but the exterior mirror alert indicator will remain illuminated.
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.
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Once blockage is removed, the system will require some driving time and
detection of at least two vehicle object prior to realizing it is unblocked,
or the driver can cycle the ignition key. If blocked and the ignition key is
cycled, the system resets to unblocked. If however blockage is still
present after the key cycle, the system will sense again that it is blocked
after driving in traffic.
The following table lists possible causes and actions for this message
being displayed:
The surface of the left or
right radar is dirty or
obstructed in some wayClean the fascia area in front of the
radar, either left or right side, or remove
obstruction.
The surface of the left or
right radar is not dirty or
obstructedDrive normally in traffic for a few
minutes to allow the radar to detect that
it is no longer blocked.Note:the
vehicle must be in D (Drive) and a few
vehicles must pass so that the BLIS
can clear a blocked state.
Heavy rainfall or heavy
snowfall is interfering with
the radar signalsNo action required by the driver. The
system will automatically go unblocked
once the rainfall/snowfall rate decreases
or stops. Do not use BLIS-CTA in
heavy rainfall or heavy snowfall.
Due to the nature of radar technology, it is possible to get a blockage
warning and not be blocked. This is rare and known as a false blockage
warning. A false blocked condition will either self clear or clear after a
key cycle.
Trailer tow false alerts
When towing a trailer, the left and right sensor may detect the trailer
thus causing a false alert. It may be desirable to turn the BLISoffifthe
false alerts become annoying.
Day and night brightness
The BLIS-CTA alert will automatically dim when the headlamp switch is
in the parking, on, or autolamp position and night time darkness has
been detected by the sun sensor.
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ALL WHEEL DRIVE (AWD) SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
Your vehicle may be equipped with a full-time All Wheel Drive (AWD)
system. The AWD system is an active system, meaning it not only
responds to wheel slip between the front and rear axles but also has the
ability to anticipate wheel slip and transfer torque to the rear wheels
before slip occurs. The AWD system is active all the time and requires no
input from the operator.
All components of the AWD system are sealed for life and require no
maintenance.
Note:When an AWD system fault is present, the warning CHECK AWD
will display in the message center. The AWD system is not functioning
correctly and defaulted to front wheel drive. When this warning is
displayed, have your vehicle serviced at an authorized dealer.
If your vehicle is equipped with AWD, a spare tire of a different size
other than the tire provided should never be used. A dissimilar spare tire
size (other than the spare tire provided) or major dissimilar tire sizes
between the front and rear axles could cause the AWD system to stop
functioning and default to front wheel drive.
Note:Your AWD vehicle is not intended for off-road use. The AWD
feature gives your vehicle some limited off-road capabilities in which
driving surfaces are relatively level, obstruction-free and otherwise
similar to normal on-road driving conditions. Operating your vehicle
under other than those conditions could subject the vehicle to excessive
stress which might result in damage which is not covered under your
warranty.
Driving on slippery surfaces with AWD vehicles
AWD vehicles are specially equipped for driving on sand, snow, mud and
rough roads and have operating characteristics that are somewhat
different from conventional vehicles, both on and off the highway.
When driving at slow speeds off-highway under high outside
temperatures, use a low gear or (L) when possible. L (Low) gear
operation will maximize the engine and transmission cooling capability.
Under severe operating conditions, the A/C may cycle on and off to
protect overheating of the engine.
Basic operating principles
•Drive slower in strong crosswinds which can affect the normal steering
characteristics of your vehicle.
•Be extremely careful when driving on pavement made slippery by
loose sand, water, gravel, snow or ice.
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If your vehicle goes off the edge of the pavement
•If your vehicle goes off the edge of the pavement, slow down, but
avoid severe brake application, ease the vehicle back onto the
pavement only after reducing your speed. Do not turn the steering
wheel too sharply while returning to the road surface.
•It may be safer to stay on the apron or shoulder of the road and slow
down gradually before returning to the pavement. You may lose
control if you do not slow down or if you turn the steering wheel too
sharply or abruptly.
•It often may be less risky to strike small objects, such as highway
reflectors, with minor damage to your vehicle rather than attempt a
sudden return to the pavement which could cause the vehicle to slide
sideways out of control or rollover. Remember, your safety and the
safety of others should be your primary concern.
If your vehicle gets stuck
If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow it may be rocked out by
shifting between forward and reverse gears, stopping between shifts, in a
steady pattern. Press lightly on the accelerator in each gear.
Your vehicle is equipped with a traction control system. It may be
beneficial to disengage the traction control system while attempting to
rock the vehicle.
Do not rock the vehicle if the engine is not at normal operating
temperature or damage to the transmission may occur.
Do not rock the vehicle for more than a few minutes or damage
to the transmission and tires may occur or the engine may
overheat.
WARNING:Always set the parking brake fully and make sure
the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the off
position and remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.
WARNING:If the parking brake is fully released, but the brake
warning lamp remains illuminated, the brakes may not be
working properly. See your authorized dealer.
WARNING:Do not spin the wheels at over 35 mph (56 km/h).
The tires may fail and injure a passenger or bystander.
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Emergency maneuvers
•In an unavoidable emergency situation where a sudden sharp turn
must be made, remember to avoid “over-driving” your vehicle (i.e.,
turn the steering wheel only as rapidly and as far as required to avoid
the emergency). Excessive steering will result in less vehicle control,
not more. Additionally, smooth variations of the accelerator and/or
brake pedal pressure should be utilized if changes in vehicle speed are
called for. Avoid abrupt steering, acceleration or braking which could
result in an increased risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover
and/or personal injury. Use all available road surface to return the
vehicle to a safe direction of travel.
•In the event of an emergency stop, avoid skidding the tires and do not
attempt any sharp steering wheel movements.
•If the vehicle goes from one type of surface to another (i.e., from
concrete to gravel) there will be a change in the way the vehicle
responds to a maneuver (steering, acceleration or braking). Again,
avoid these abrupt inputs.
AWD Systems (if equipped)
AWD uses all four wheels to power the vehicle. This increases traction,
enabling you to drive over terrain and road conditions that a
conventional two-wheel drive vehicle cannot.
Sand
When driving over sand, try to keep all four wheels on the most solid
area of the trail. Avoid reducing the tire pressures but shift to a lower
gear and drive steadily through the terrain. Apply the accelerator slowly
and avoid spinning the wheels.
When driving at slow speeds in deep sand under high outside
temperatures, use a low gear or (L) when possible. L (Low) gear
operation will maximize the engine and transmission cooling capability.
Under severe operating conditions, the A/C may cycle on and off to
protect overheating of the engine.
Avoid excessive speed because vehicle momentum can work against you
and cause the vehicle to become stuck to the point that assistance may
be required from another vehicle. Remember, you may be able to back
out the way you came if you proceed with caution.
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Mud and water
If you must drive through high water, drive slowly. Traction or brake
capability may be limited.
When driving through water, determine the depth; avoid water higher
than the bottom of the wheel rims (if possible) and proceed slowly. If the
ignition system gets wet, the vehicle may stall.
Once through water, always try the brakes. Wet brakes do not stop the
vehicle as effectively as dry brakes. Drying can be improved by moving
your vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake pedal.
Be cautious of sudden changes in vehicle speed or direction when you
are driving in mud. Even AWD vehicles can lose traction in slick mud. As
when you are driving over sand, apply the accelerator slowly and avoid
spinning your wheels. If the vehicle does slide, steer in the direction of
the slide until you regain control of the vehicle.
If the engine, transmission, AWD System components or axles are
submerged in water, their fluids should be checked and changed, if
necessary.
Driving through deep water may damage the engine or
transmission.
If the front or rear axle is submerged in water, the axle lubricant and
PTU (Power Transfer Unit) lubricant should be checked and changed if
necessary.
After driving through mud, clean off residue stuck to rotating driveshafts
and tires. Excess mud stuck on tires and rotating driveshafts causes an
imbalance that could damage drive components.
“Tread Lightly” is an educational
program designed to increase public
awareness of land-use regulations
and responsibilities in our nations
wilderness areas. Ford Motor
Company joins the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land
Management in encouraging you to help preserve our national forest and
other public and private lands by “treading lightly.”
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