maintenance FORD E SERIES 2018 Owner's Manual

Note:Make sure that the coolant level isbetween the MIN and MAX marks on thecoolant reservoir.
Note: Coolant expands when it is hot. Thelevel may extend beyond the MAX mark.
Maintain coolant concentration within48% to 50%, which equates to a freezepoint between -29°F (-34°C) and -35°F(-37°C). Coolant concentration should bechecked using a refractometer. We do notrecommend the use of hydrometers orcoolant test strips for measuring coolantconcentration.
Adding Coolant
WARNINGS
Do not add engine coolant when theengine is hot. Failure to follow thisinstruction could result in personalinjury.
Never remove the coolant reservoircap when the engine is running orhot.
Note: Automotive fluids are notinterchangeable. Do not use coolant orwindshield washer fluid outside of itsspecified function and vehicle location.
Note: Do not use stop leak pellets, coolingsystem sealants, or non-specified additivesas they can cause damage to the enginecooling or heating systems. Resultingcomponent damage may not be covered bythe vehicle Warranty.
It is very important to use predilutedcoolant approved to the correctspecification in order to avoid plugging thesmall passageways in the engine coolingsystem. See Capacities andSpecifications (page 199). Do not mixdifferent colors or types of coolant in yourvehicle. Mixing of engine coolants or usingan incorrect coolant may harm the engineor cooling system components and maynot be covered by the vehicle Warranty.
Note:If prediluted coolant is not available,use the approved concentrated coolantdiluting it to 50/50 with distilled water. SeeEngine Specifications (page 194). Usingwater that has not been deionised maycontribute to deposit formation, corrosionand plugging of the small cooling systempassageways.
Note: Coolants marketed for all makes andmodels may not be approved to Fordspecifications and may cause damage tothe cooling system. Resulting componentdamage may not be covered by the vehicleWarranty.
If the coolant level is at or below theminimum mark, add prediluted coolantimmediately.
To top up the coolant level do thefollowing:
1. Unscrew the cap slowly. Any pressureescapes as you unscrew the cap.
2. Add prediluted coolant approved tothe correct specification. SeeCapacities and Specifications (page194).
3. Add enough prediluted coolant toreach the correct level.
4.Replace the coolant reservoir cap, turnit clockwise until you feel a strongresistance.
143
E-Series (TE4) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201712, Second Printing
Maintenance

5. Check the coolant level in the coolantreservoir the next few times you driveyour vehicle. If necessary, add enoughprediluted engine coolant to bring thecoolant level to the correct level.
If you have to add more than 1.1 qt (1 L) ofengine coolant per month, have yourvehicle checked as soon as possible.Operating an engine with a low level ofcoolant can result in engine overheatingand possible engine damage.
Note:During normal vehicle operation, thecoolant may change color from orange topink or light red. As long as the coolant isclear and uncontaminated, this color changedoes not indicate the coolant has degradednor does it require the coolant to be drained,the system to be flushed, or the coolant tobe replaced.
In case of emergency, you can add a largeamount of water without coolant in orderto reach a vehicle service location. In thisinstance, qualified personnel:
1. Must drain the cooling system.
2. Chemically clean the coolant system.
3. Refill with coolant that meets thecorrect specification. See Capacitiesand Specifications (page 194).
Water alone, without coolant, can causeengine damage from corrosion,overheating or freezing.
Do not use the following as a coolantsubstitute:
•Alcohol.
•Methanol.
•Brine.
•Any coolant mixed with alcohol ormethanol antifreeze.
Alcohol and other liquids can cause enginedamage from overheating or freezing.
Do not add extra inhibitors or additives tothe coolant. These can be harmful andcompromise the corrosion protection ofthe coolant.
Recycled Coolant
We do not recommend the use of recycledcoolant as an approved recycling processis not yet available.
Dispose of used engine coolant in anappropriate manner. Follow yourcommunity’s regulations and standardsfor recycling and disposing of automotivefluids.
Severe Climates
If you drive in extremely cold climates:
•It may be necessary to increase thecoolant concentration above 50%.
•A coolant concentration of 60%provides improved freeze pointprotection. Coolant concentrationsabove 60% decrease the overheatprotection characteristics of thecoolant and may cause enginedamage.
If you drive in extremely hot climates:
•You can decrease the coolantconcentration to 40%.
•Coolant concentrations below 40%decrease the freeze and corrosionprotection characteristics of thecoolant and may cause enginedamage.
Vehicles driven year-round in non-extremeclimates should use prediluted coolant foroptimum cooling system and engineprotection.
144
E-Series (TE4) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201712, Second Printing
Maintenance

Coolant Change
At specific mileage intervals, as listed inthe scheduled maintenance information,the coolant should be changed. Addprediluted coolant approved to the correctspecification. See Capacities andSpecifications (page 194).
Fail-Safe Cooling
Fail-safe cooling allows you to temporarilydrive your vehicle before any incrementalcomponent damage occurs. The fail-safedistance depends on ambienttemperature, vehicle load and terrain.
How Fail-Safe Cooling Works
If the engine begins to overheat, thecoolant temperature gauge moves towardthe red zone:
A warning lamp illuminates anda message may appear in theinformation display.
If the engine reaches a presetover-temperature condition, the engineautomatically switches to alternatingcylinder operation. Each disabled cylinderacts as an air pump and cools the engine.
When this occurs, your vehicle stilloperates, however:
•Engine power is limited.
•The air conditioning system turns off.
Continued operation increases the enginetemperature, causing the engine tocompletely shut down. Your steering andbraking effort increases in this situation.
When the engine temperature cools, youcan re-start the engine. Have your vehiclechecked as soon as possible to minimizeengine damage.
When Fail-Safe Mode Is Activated
WARNINGS
Fail-safe mode is for use duringemergencies only. Operate yourvehicle in fail-safe mode only as longas necessary to bring your vehicle to restin a safe location and seek immediaterepairs. When in fail-safe mode, yourvehicle will have limited power, will not beable to maintain high-speed operation, andmay completely shut down withoutwarning, potentially losing engine power,power steering assist, and power brakeassist, which may increase the possibilityof a crash resulting in serious injury.
Never remove the coolant reservoircap when the engine is running orhot.
Your vehicle has limited engine powerwhen in the fail-safe mode, drive yourvehicle with caution. Your vehicle does notmaintain high-speed operation and theengine may operate poorly.
Remember that the engine is capable ofautomatically shutting down to preventengine damage. In this situation:
1. Pull off the road as soon as safelypossible and switch the engine off.
2. If you are a member of a roadsideassistance program, we recommendthat you contact your roadsideassistance service provider.
3. If this is not possible, wait a shortperiod for the engine to cool.
4. Check the coolant level. If the coolantlevel is at or below the minimum mark,add prediluted coolant immediately.
5. When the engine temperature cools,you can re-start the engine. Have yourvehicle checked as soon as possible tominimize engine damage.
145
E-Series (TE4) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201712, Second Printing
Maintenance

Note:Driving your vehicle without repairincreases the chance of engine damage.
Engine Coolant TemperatureManagement (If Equipped)
WARNING
To reduce the risk of crash and injury,be prepared that the vehicle speedmay reduce and the vehicle may notbe able to accelerate with full power untilthe coolant temperature reduces.
If you tow a trailer with your vehicle, theengine may temporarily reach a highertemperature during severe operatingconditions, for example ascending a longor steep slope in high ambienttemperatures.
At this time, you may notice the coolanttemperature gauge moves toward the redzone and a message may appear in theinformation display.
You may notice a reduction in vehiclespeed caused by reduced engine power inorder to manage the engine coolanttemperature. Your vehicle may enter thismode if certain high-temperature andhigh-load conditions take place. Theamount of speed reduction depends onvehicle loading, grade and ambienttemperature. If this occurs, there is no needto pull off the road. You can continue todrive your vehicle.
The air conditioning may automaticallyturn on and off during severe operatingconditions to protect the engine fromoverheating. When the coolanttemperature decreases to the normaloperating temperature, the air conditioningturns on.
If the coolant temperature gauge movesfully into the red zone, or if the coolanttemperature warning or service enginesoon messages appear in your informationdisplay, do the following:
1. Pull off the road as soon as safelypossible and shift the transmission intopark (P).
2. Leave the engine running until thecoolant temperature gauge needlereturns to the normal position. If thetemperature does not drop afterseveral minutes, follow the remainingsteps.
3.Switch the engine off and wait for it tocool. Check the coolant level.
4. If the coolant level is at or below theminimum mark, immediately addprediluted coolant.
5. If the coolant level is normal, restartthe engine and continue driving.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID CHECK
Have an authorized dealer check andchange the transmission fluid and filter atthe correct service interval. SeeScheduled Maintenance (page 270).
Do not use supplemental transmissionfluid additives, treatments or cleaningagents. The use of these materials mayaffect transmission operation and resultin damage to internal transmissioncomponents.
146
E-Series (TE4) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201712, Second Printing
Maintenance

Checking Automatic TransmissionFluid
For scheduled intervals of the fluid checksand changes, See ScheduledMaintenance (page 270). Yourtransmission does not consume fluid.However, the fluid level should be checkedif the transmission is not working properly,i.e., if the transmission slips or shifts slowlyor if you notice some sign of fluid leakage.
Automatic transmission fluid expandswhen warmed. To obtain an accurate fluidcheck, drive the vehicle until it is at normaloperating temperature (approximately19 mi (30 km)). Verify that thetransmission fluid temperature gauge,located on the instrument cluster, is withinnormal range.
1. Drive the vehicle 19 mi (30 km) until itreaches normal operating temperature.
2.Park the vehicle on a level surface andengage the parking brake.
3.With the engine running, parking brakeengaged and your foot on the brakepedal, move the gearshift lever throughall of the gear ranges. Allow sufficienttime for each gear to engage.
4. Put the transmission in park (P) andleave the engine running.
5. Remove the dipstick, wiping it cleanwith a clean, dry lint free rag. Ifnecessary, refer to the Under HoodOverview in this chapter for thelocation of the dipstick.
6.Install the dipstick making sure it is fullyseated in the filler tube.
7. Remove the dipstick and inspect thefluid level. The fluid should be in thedesignated area for normal operatingtemperature or ambient temperature.
Low Fluid Level
Type A
Type B
Do not drive the vehicle if there is noindication of fluid on the dipstick and theambient temperature is above 50°F(10°C).
Correct Fluid Level
Type A
147
E-Series (TE4) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201712, Second Printing
MaintenanceE163739 E163740

Type B
For vehicles equipped with 5-speedtransmissions, check the fluid at thenormal operating temperature of 151°F(66°C) to 170°F (77°C) on a level surface.For vehicles equipped with 6-speedtransmissions, check the fluid at thenormal operating temperature of 196°F(91°C) to 215°F (102°C) on a level surface.The normal operating temperature can bereached after approximately 19 mi(30 km).
High Fluid Level
Type A
Type B
Fluid levels above the safe range mayresult in transmission failure. An overfillcondition of transmission fluid may causeshift and engagement concerns, andpossible damage.
High fluid levels can be caused by anoverheating condition.
Adjusting Automatic TransmissionFluid Levels
Note:Use of a non-approved automatictransmission fluid may cause internaltransmission component damage.
Before adding any fluid, make sure thecorrect type is used. The type of fluid usedis normally indicated on:
148
E-Series (TE4) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201712, Second Printing
MaintenanceE163741 E163742 E163743 E163744

•the dipstick handle.
•See Capacities and Specifications(page 194).
If necessary, add fluid in 8 fl oz (250 ml)increments through the filler tube until thelevel is correct.
Type A
Type B
If an overfill occurs, excess fluid should beremoved by a qualified technician.
Note:An overfill condition of transmissionfluid may cause shift and engagementconcerns, and possible damage.
Do not use supplemental transmissionfluid additives, treatments or cleaningagents. The use of these materials mayaffect transmission operation and resultin damage to internal transmissioncomponents.
Automatic Transmission FluidFilter
Your automatic transmission is equippedwith a serviceable transmission fluid filterlocated inside the transmission bottompan. For service intervals for the automatictransmission fluid and transmission filter,See Scheduled Maintenance (page 270).
For transmission filter maintenance, seeyour authorized dealer.
BRAKE FLUID CHECK
WARNINGS
Do not use any fluid other than therecommended brake fluid as this willreduce brake efficiency. Use ofincorrect fluid could result in the loss ofvehicle control, serious personal injury ordeath.
149
E-Series (TE4) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201712, Second Printing
MaintenanceE163745 E163746 E196355

WARNINGS
Only use brake fluid from a sealedcontainer. Contamination with dirt,water, petroleum products or othermaterials may result in brake systemdamage or failure. Failure to adhere to thiswarning could result in the loss of vehiclecontrol, serious personal injury or death.
Do not allow the fluid to touch yourskin or eyes. If this happens, rinse theaffected areas immediately withplenty of water and contact your physician.
A fluid level between the MAX andMIN lines is within the normaloperating range and there is no needto add fluid. A fluid level not in the normaloperating range could compromise theperformance of the system. Have yourvehicle checked immediately.
To avoid fluid contamination, the reservoircap must remain in place and fully tight,unless you are adding fluid.
Only use fluid that meets Fordspecifications. See Capacities andSpecifications (page 194).
POWER STEERING FLUID
CHECK
WARNINGS
A fluid level between the MAX andMIN lines is within the normaloperating range and there is no needto add fluid. A fluid level not in the normaloperating range could compromise theperformance of the system.
For E-350 and E-450 vehicles withthe Hydro-Boost Brake System, donot press the brake pedal after theengine has been turned off. Pressing thebrake pedal after the engine has beenturned off will give a false power steeringfluid level reading.
Only use fluid that meets Fordspecifications. See Capacities andSpecifications (page 199).
To top up the power steering fluid level dothe following.
1. Start the engine and let it run until itreaches normal operating temperature.
2. Make sure the fluid is within the MINand MAX range.
3. If the fluid level is low, add fluid to bewithin the MIN and MAX range. Do notoverfill.
4.While the engine idles, turn the steeringwheel left and right several times.
5. Recheck the fluid level in the reservoir.
Note:Do not operate the vehicle with a lowpower steering pump fluid level.
WASHER FLUID CHECK
WARNING
If you operate your vehicle intemperatures below 40°F (5°C), usewasher fluid with antifreezeprotection. Failure to use washer fluid withantifreeze protection in cold weather couldresult in impaired windshield vision andincrease the risk of injury or accident.
Add fluid to fill the reservoir if the level islow. Only use a washer fluid that meetsFord specifications. See Capacities andSpecifications (page 194).
State or local regulations on volatileorganic compounds may restrict the useof methanol, a common windshield washerantifreeze additive. Washer fluidscontaining non-methanol antifreezeagents should be used only if they providecold weather protection without damagingthe vehicle’s paint finish, wiper blades orwasher system.
150
E-Series (TE4) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201712, Second Printing
Maintenance

CHANGING THE 12V BATTERY
WARNINGS
This vehicle may be fitted with morethan one battery, removal of cablefrom only one battery does notdisconnect the vehicle electrical system.Be sure to disconnect cables from allbatteries when disconnecting power.Failure to do so may cause seriouspersonal injury or property damage.
Batteries normally produce explosivegases which can cause personalinjury. Therefore, do not allowflames, sparks or lighted substances tocome near the battery. When working nearthe battery, always shield your face andprotect your eyes. Always provide properventilation.
When lifting a plastic-cased battery,excessive pressure on the end wallscould cause acid to flow through thevent caps, resulting in personal injuryand/or damage to the vehicle or battery.Lift the battery with a battery carrier orwith your hands on opposite corners.
Keep batteries out of reach ofchildren. Batteries contain sulfuricacid. Avoid contact with skin, eyes orclothing. Shield your eyes when workingnear the battery to protect against possiblesplashing of acid solution. In case of acidcontact with skin or eyes, flushimmediately with water for a minimum of15 minutes and get prompt medicalattention. If acid is swallowed, call aphysician immediately.
Battery posts, terminals and relatedaccessories contain lead and leadcompounds. Wash hands afterhandling.
Note:If your vehicle battery has a cover,make sure it is reinstalled after the batteryhas been cleaned or replaced.
Note:Electrical or electronic accessoriesor components added to the vehicle by thedealer or the owner may adversely affectbattery performance and durability.
Your vehicle is fitted with a Motorcraft®maintenance-free battery which normallydoes not require additional water duringits life of service.
For longer, trouble-free operation, keep thetop of the battery clean and dry. Also,make certain the battery cables are alwaystightly fastened to the battery terminals.
If you see any corrosion on the battery orterminals, remove the cables from theterminals and clean with a wire brush. Youcan neutralize the acid with a solution ofbaking soda and water.
Always dispose of automotive batteries ina responsible manner. Follow your localauthorized standards for disposal. Call yourlocal authorized recycling center to findout more about recycling automotivebatteries.
Reconnecting the Battery
Because your vehicle’s engine iselectronically controlled by a computer,some control conditions are maintainedby power from the battery. When thebattery is disconnected or a new batteryis installed, the engine must relearn its idleand fuel trim strategy for optimumdriveability and performance. Flexible fuelvehicles (FFV) must also relearn theethanol content of the fuel for optimumdriveability and performance.
To begin this process.
1.Switch off all accessories and start theengine.
2. Run the engine until it reaches normaloperating temperature.
3.Allow the engine to idle for at least oneminute.
151
E-Series (TE4) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201712, Second Printing
Maintenance

4. Turn the A/C on and allow the engineto idle for at least one minute.
5. Fully press the foot brake. Release theparking brake. Shift the gearshift leverto Drive (D) and allow the engine toidle for at least one minute.
6. Drive the vehicle for approximately10 mi (16 km) to complete therelearning process.
Note:If you do not carry out the aboveprocess, the idle quality of your vehicle maybe adversely affected until the idle trim iseventually relearned.
Flexible fuel vehicles operating on E85 mayexperience poor starts and driveabilityproblems until the fuel trim and ethanolcontent have been relearned.
When the battery is disconnected or a newbattery installed, the transmission mustlearn its adaptive strategy. As a result ofthis, the transmission may shift firmly. Thisoperation is considered normal and fullyupdates transmission operation to itsoptimum shift feel. We recommend thatthe negative battery cable terminal bedisconnected from the battery if you planto store your vehicle for an extended periodof time. This minimizes the discharge ofyour battery during storage.
Dual Batteries (If Equipped)
Your vehicle may be fitted with aframe-mounted battery located on thepassenger side frame rail, behind the frontpassenger door. This battery is connectedin parallel with the battery in the enginecompartment. Both batteries are used tostart the vehicle.
CHECKING THE WIPER
BLADES
Run the tip of your fingers over the edge ofthe blade to check for roughness.
Clean the wiper blades with washer fluidor water applied with a soft sponge orcloth.
CHANGING THE WIPER
BLADES
You can manually move the wiper armswhen the ignition is off. This allows for easeof blade replacement and cleaning underthe blades.
1. Pull the wiper blade and arm awayfrom the glass.
152
E-Series (TE4) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 201712, Second Printing
MaintenanceE142463 E165804