warning light FORD ECOSPORT 2020 Owner's Manual

Basic operating principles in specialconditions
•Drive slower in strong crosswinds whichcan affect the normal steeringcharacteristics of your vehicle.
•Be extremely careful when driving onpavement made slippery by loose sand,water, gravel, snow or ice.
If Your Vehicle Goes Off the Edge of thePavement
•If your vehicle goes off the edge of thepavement, slow down, but avoid severebrake application, ease the vehicleback onto the pavement only afterreducing your speed. Do not turn thesteering wheel too sharply whilereturning to the road surface.
•It may be safer to stay on the apron orshoulder of the road and slow downgradually before returning to thepavement. You may lose control if youdo not slow down or if you turn thesteering wheel too sharply or abruptly.
•It often may be less risky to strike smallobjects, such as highway reflectors,with minor damage to your vehiclerather than attempt a sudden return tothe pavement which could cause thevehicle to slide sideways out of controlor rollover. Remember, your safety andthe safety of others should be yourprimary concern.
If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck
WARNING: Do not spin the wheelsat over 34 mph (55 km/h). The tires mayfail and injure a passenger or bystander.
Note:Do not rock the vehicle if the engineis not at normal operating temperature ordamage to the transmission may occur.
Note:Do not rock the vehicle for more thana few minutes or damage to thetransmission and tires may occur or theengine may overheat.
If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow itmay be rocked out by shifting betweenforward and reverse gears, stoppingbetween shifts, in a steady pattern. Presslightly on the accelerator in each gear.
If your vehicle is equipped withAdvanceTrac® with Roll StabilityControl™, it may be beneficial todisengage the AdvanceTrac® with RollStability Control™ system whileattempting to rock the vehicle.
Emergency Maneuvers
•In an unavoidable emergency situationwhere a sudden sharp turn must bemade, remember to avoid"over-driving" your vehicle (i.e., turn thesteering wheel only as rapidly and asfar as required to avoid theemergency). Excessive steering willresult in less vehicle control, not more.Additionally, smooth variations of theaccelerator and/or brake pedalpressure should be utilized if changesin vehicle speed are called for. Avoidabrupt steering, acceleration or brakingwhich could result in an increased riskof loss of vehicle control, vehiclerollover and/or personal injury. Use allavailable road surface to return thevehicle to a safe direction of travel.
•In the event of an emergency stop,avoid skidding the tires and do notattempt any sharp steering wheelmovements.
•If the vehicle goes from one type ofsurface to another (i.e., from concreteto gravel) there will be a change in theway the vehicle responds to amaneuver (steering, acceleration orbraking). Again, avoid these abruptinputs.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Wet brakes result in reduced brakingefficiency. Gently press the brake pedal afew times when driving from a car wash orstanding water to dry the brakes.
Brake Over Accelerator
In the event the accelerator pedalbecomes stuck or entrapped, apply steadyand firm pressure to the brake pedal toslow the vehicle and reduce engine power.If you experience this condition, apply thebrakes and bring your vehicle to a safestop. Shift the transmission to park (P)(automatic transmission) or to a low gear(manual transmission), switch the engineoff and apply the parking brake.
Check the accelerator pedal and the areaaround it for any items or debris that maybe obstructing its movement. If none arefound and the condition persists, have yourvehicle towed to the dealer for service.
Emergency Brake Assist
Emergency brake assist detects when youbrake heavily by measuring the rate atwhich you press the brake pedal. Itprovides maximum braking efficiency aslong as you press the pedal. Emergencybrake assist can reduce stopping distancesin critical situations.
Anti-lock Brake System
This system helps you maintain steeringcontrol and vehicle stability duringemergency stops by keeping the brakesfrom locking.
It illuminates when you switchthe ignition on. If the light doesnot illuminate during start up,remains on or flashes, the system may bedisabled. Have the system checked by anauthorized dealer. If the anti-lock brakesystem is disabled, normal braking is stilleffective.
If the brake warning lampilluminates when you release theparking brake, have the systemchecked by an authorized dealer. This lampalso illuminates momentarily when youswitch the ignition on to confirm the lampis functional. If it does not illuminate whenyou switch the ignition on, or begins toflash at any time, have the system checkedby an authorized dealer.
Note: Occasional brake noise is normal. Ifa metal-to-metal, continuous grinding orcontinuous squeal sound is present, thebrake linings may be worn-out. If yourvehicle has continuous vibration or shudderin the steering wheel while braking, haveyour vehicle checked by an authorizeddealer.
Note: Brake dust may accumulate on thewheels, even under normal drivingconditions. Some dust is inevitable as thebrakes wear. See Cleaning the Wheels(page 244).
Note:Depending on applicable laws andregulations in the country for which yourvehicle was originally built, the brake lampsmay flash during heavy braking. Followingthis the hazard warning flashers may alsoflash when your vehicle comes to a stop.
See Warning Lamps andIndicators (page 89).
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HINTS ON DRIVING WITH
ANTI-LOCK BRAKES
The anti-lock braking system does noteliminate the risks when:
•You drive too closely to the vehicle infront of you.
•Your vehicle is hydroplaning.
•You take corners too fast.
•The road surface is poor.
Note: If the system activates, the brakepedal may pulse and may travel further.Maintain pressure on the brake pedal. Youmay also hear a noise from the system. Thisis normal.
PARKING BRAKE
Vehicles With AutomaticTransmission
WARNING: Always set the parkingbrake fully and leave your vehicle withthe transmission selector lever inposition P.
Note:If you park your vehicle on a hill andfacing uphill move the transmission selectorlever to position P and turn the steeringwheel away from the curb.
Note:If you park your vehicle on a hill andfacing downhill move the transmissionselector lever to position P and turn thesteering wheel toward the curb.
Vehicles With ManualTransmission
WARNING: Always set the parkingbrake fully.
Note:If you park your vehicle on a hill andfacing uphill select first gear and turn thesteering wheel away from the curb.
Note:If you park your vehicle on a hill andfacing downhill select reverse gear and turnthe steering wheel toward the curb.
All Vehicles
Note:Do not press the release button whilepulling the lever up.
To apply the parking brake:
1.Press the foot brake pedal firmly.
2.Pull the parking brake lever up to itsfullest extent.
To release the parking brake:
1.Press the brake pedal firmly.
2.Pull the lever up slightly.
3.Press the release button and push thelever down.
HILL START ASSIST
WARNING: The system does notreplace the parking brake. When youleave your vehicle, always apply theparking brake and shift the transmissioninto park (P) for automatic transmissionor first gear for manual transmission.
WARNING: You must remain inyour vehicle when the system turns on.At all times, you are responsible forcontrolling your vehicle, supervising thesystem and intervening, if required.Failure to take care may result in the lossof control of your vehicle, seriouspersonal injury or death.
WARNING: The system turns offif there is a malfunction or if youexcessively rev the engine.
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The system makes it easier to pull awaywhen your vehicle is on a slope without theneed to use the parking brake.
When the system activates, your vehicleremains stationary on a slope for a fewseconds after you release the brake pedal.This allows you time to move your footfrom the brake to the accelerator pedal.The brakes release when the engine hasdeveloped sufficient torque to prevent yourvehicle from rolling down the slope. Thisis an advantage when pulling away on aslope, for example from a car park ramp,traffic lights or when reversing uphill intoa parking space.
The system activates on any slope thatcauses your vehicle to roll.
Note:There is no warning lamp to indicatethe system is either on or off.
Using Hill Start Assist
1.Press the brake pedal to bring yourvehicle to a complete standstill. Keepthe brake pedal pressed and shift intofirst gear when facing uphill or reverse(R) when facing downhill.
2.The system activates if the sensorsdetect that your vehicle is on a slope.
3.When you remove your foot from thebrake pedal, your vehicle remains onthe slope without rolling away for a fewseconds. This hold time increases if youare in the process of driving off.
4.Pull away in the normal manner.
Switching the System On and Off
Vehicles with Manual Transmission
You can switch this feature on or off in theinformation display. The systemremembers the last setting when you startyour vehicle.
Vehicles with Automatic Transmission
The system turns on when you switch theignition on and you cannot switch thesystem off.
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PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION
The traction control system helps avoiddrive wheel spin and loss of traction.
If your vehicle begins to slide, the systemapplies the brakes to individual wheelsand, when needed, reduces engine powerat the same time. If the wheels spin whenaccelerating on slippery or loose surfaces,the system reduces engine power in orderto increase traction.
USING TRACTION CONTROL
In certain situations for example, stuck insnow or mud, turning the traction controloff may be beneficial as this allows thewheels to spin with full engine power.Depending on the type of system you haveon your vehicle, you can either turn thesystem off using the information displayor by pressing the button.
Switching the System Off Usingthe Information Display Controls
(If Equipped)
Your vehicle comes with this featurealready enabled. If required, you can switchthis feature off using the informationdisplay controls. See Principle ofOperation (page 160).
Switching the System Off Using aSwitch (If Equipped)
The button is located in the instrumentpanel.
Press the button. You will see a messagein conjunction with an illuminated icon inthe display. Press the button again toreturn the system to normal mode.
When you switch the traction controlsystem off, stability control remains fullyactive.
System Indicator Lights andMessages
WARNING: If a failure has beendetected within the AdvanceTracsystem, the stability control light willilluminate steadily. Verify that theAdvanceTrac system was not manuallydisabled through the information display.If the stability control light stillilluminates steadily, have the systemserviced by an authorized dealerimmediately. Operating your vehicle withAdvanceTrac disabled could lead to anincreased risk of loss of vehicle control,vehicle rollover, personal injury anddeath.
The stability control lighttemporarily illuminates onengine start-up and flasheswhen a driving condition activates thestability system.
The stability control off lighttemporarily illuminates onengine start-up and stays onwhen you turn the traction control systemoff.
When you turn the traction control systemoff or on, a message appears in theinformation display showing system status.
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BLIND SPOT INFORMATION
SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
WARNING: Do not use the blindspot information system as areplacement for using the interior andexterior mirrors or looking over yourshoulder before changing lanes. Theblind spot information system is not areplacement for careful driving.
WARNING: The system may notoperate properly during severe weatherconditions, for example snow, ice, heavyrain and spray. Always drive with duecare and attention. Failure to take caremay result in a crash.
The system is designed to detect vehiclesthat may have entered the blind spot zone(A). The detection area is on both sides ofyour vehicle, extending rearward from theexterior mirrors to approximately 13 ft(4 m) beyond the rear bumper.
Note:The system does not prevent contactwith other vehicles. It is not designed todetect parked vehicles, pedestrians, animalsor other infrastructures.
Using the Blind Spot InformationSystem
Vehicles with Automatic Transmission
The system turns on when all of thefollowing occur:
•You start your vehicle.
•You shift into drive (D).
•The vehicle speed is greater than6 mph (10 km/h).
Note:The system does not operate in park(P) or reverse (R).
Vehicles with Manual Transmission
The system turns on when all of thefollowing occur:
•You start your vehicle.
•The vehicle speed is greater than6 mph (10 km/h).
Note:The system does not operate inreverse (R).
System Lights and Messages
When the system detects a vehicle, analert indicator illuminates in the exteriormirror on the side the approaching vehicleis coming from. If you turn the directionindicator on for that side of your vehicle,the alert indicator flashes.
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Note:The system may not correctly operatewhen towing a trailer. For vehicles with atrailer tow module and tow bar approvedby us, the system turns off when you attacha trailer. For vehicles with an aftermarkettrailer tow module or tow bar, werecommend that you switch the system offwhen you attach a trailer.
To permanently switch the system off,contact an authorized dealer.
STEERING
Electric Power Steering
WARNING: The electric powersteering system has diagnostic checksthat continuously monitor the system. Ifa fault is detected, a message displaysin the information display. Stop yourvehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.Switch the ignition off. After at least 10seconds, switch the ignition on andwatch the information display for asteering system warning message. If asteering system warning messagereturns, have the system checked assoon as possible.
WARNING: If the system detectsan error, you may not feel a difference inthe steering, however a serious conditionmay exist. Have your vehicle checked assoon as possible, failure to do so mayresult in loss of steering control.
Note:Your vehicle is equipped with anelectric power-assisted steering system.There is no fluid reservoir to check or fill.
The electric power steering systemoperates by an electric motor, whichreduces the effort on the driver's steeringwheel.
The system operates progressively andduring maneuvers, the system leaves theeffort lighter. As the vehicle speedincreases, it reduces its action to improvethe control of the vehicle.
If your vehicle loses electrical power whileyou are driving (or if the ignition is turnedoff), you can steer the vehicle manually,but it takes more effort. Extremecontinuous steering may increase the effortit takes for you to steer. This occurs toprevent internal overheating andpermanent damage to your steeringsystem. If this should occur, you will notlose the ability to steer the vehiclemanually nor will it cause permanentdamage. Typical steering and drivingmaneuvers will allow the system to cooland steering assist will return to normal.
Steering Tips
Avoid sudden movements with the steeringwheel. The force required to change thevehicle direction is lower, compared to avehicle with mechanical steering.
If the steering wanders or pulls, check for:
•An improperly inflated tire
•Uneven tire wear
•Loose or worn suspension components
•Loose or worn steering components
•Improper vehicle alignment
A high crown in the road or high crosswindsmay also make the steering seem towander or pull.
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TOWING A TRAILER
WARNING: Towing trailers beyondthe maximum recommended grosstrailer weight exceeds the limit of yourvehicle and could result in enginedamage, transmission damage,structural damage, loss of vehiclecontrol, vehicle rollover and personalinjury.
WARNING: Do not exceed theGVWR or the GAWR specified on thecertification label.
Note: See Towing a Trailer (page 181).
Your vehicle may have electrical items,such as fuses or relays, related to towing.See Fuses (page 203).
Your vehicle's load capacity designationis by weight, not by volume, so you cannotnecessarily use all available space whenloading a vehicle or trailer.
Towing a trailer places an extra load onyour vehicle's engine, transmission, axle,brakes, tires and suspension. Inspect thesecomponents periodically during, and after,any towing operation.
Load Placement
To help minimize how trailer movementaffects your vehicle when driving:
•Load the heaviest items closest to thetrailer floor.
•Load the heaviest items centeredbetween the left and right side trailertires.
•Load the heaviest items above thetrailer axles or just slightly forwardtoward the trailer tongue. Do not allowthe final trailer tongue weight to goabove or below 10-15% of the loadedtrailer weight.
•Select a ball mount with the correctrise or drop and load capacity. Whenboth the loaded vehicle and trailer areconnected, the trailer frame should belevel, or slightly angled down towardyour vehicle, when viewed from theside.
When driving with a trailer or payload, aslight takeoff vibration or shudder may bepresent due to the increased payloadweight. Additional information regardingproper trailer loading and setting yourvehicle up for towing is located in anotherchapter of this manual. See Load Limit(page 176).
You can also find information in the RV &Trailer Towing Guide available at yourauthorized dealer, or online.
RV & Trailer Towing Guide Online
http://www.fleet.ford.com/towing-guides/Website
TRAILER SWAY CONTROL
Note:This feature does not prevent trailersway, but reduces it once it begins.
Note:This feature cannot stop all trailersfrom swaying.
Note:In some cases, if your vehicle speedis too high, the system may turn on multipletimes, gradually reducing your vehicle speed.
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Trailer Brakes
WARNING: Do not connect atrailer's hydraulic brake system directlyto your vehicle's brake system. Yourvehicle may not have enough brakingpower and your chances of having acollision greatly increase.
Electric brakes and manual, automatic orsurge-type trailer brakes are safe if youinstall them properly and adjust them tothe manufacturer's specifications. Thetrailer brakes must meet local and federalregulations.
The rating for the tow vehicle's brakingsystem operation is at the gross vehicleweight rating, not the gross combinedweight rating.
Separate functioning brake systemsare required for safe control of towedvehicles and trailers weighing morethan 1500 lb (680 kg) when loaded.
Trailer Lamps
WARNING: Never connect anytrailer lamp wiring to the vehicle's taillamp wiring; this may damage theelectrical system resulting in fire. Contactyour authorized dealer as soon aspossible for assistance in proper trailertow wiring installation. Additionalelectrical equipment may be required.
Trailer lamps are required on most towedvehicles. Make sure all running lights, brakelights, turn signals and hazard lights areworking.
Before Towing a Trailer
Practice turning, stopping and backing upto get the feel of your vehicle-trailercombination before starting on a trip.When turning, make wider turns so thetrailer wheels clear curbs and otherobstacles.
When Towing a Trailer
•Do not drive faster than 70 mph(113 km/h) during the first 500 mi(800 km).
•Do not make full-throttle starts.
•Check your hitch, electrical connectionsand trailer wheel lug nuts thoroughlyafter you have traveled 50 mi (80 km).
•When stopped in congested or heavytraffic during hot weather, place thetransmission in park (P) to aid engineand transmission cooling and to helpA/C performance.
•Turn off the speed control with heavyloads or in hilly terrain. The speedcontrol may turn off automaticallywhen you are towing on long, steepgrades.
•Shift to a lower gear when driving downa long or steep hill. Do not apply thebrakes continuously, as they mayoverheat and become less effective.
•If your transmission is equipped with aGrade Assist or Tow/Haul feature, usethis feature when towing. This providesengine braking and helps eliminateexcessive transmission shifting foroptimum fuel economy andtransmission cooling.
•Allow more distance for stopping witha trailer attached. Anticipate stops andbrake gradually.
•Avoid parking on a grade. However, ifyou must park on a grade:
1.Turn the steering wheel to point yourvehicle tires away from traffic flow.
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BREAKING-IN
Tires
Note:New tires need to be run-in forapproximately 310.7 mi (500 km). Duringthis time, you may experience differentdriving characteristics.
Brakes and Clutch
Note:If possible, avoid heavy braking andclutching during the first 93.2 mi (150 km)in the city, and the first 932.1 mi (1,500 km)in highways.
ECONOMICAL DRIVING
Fuel economy is affected by several thingssuch as how you drive, the conditions youdrive under and how you maintain yourvehicle.
There are some things to keep in mind thatmay improve your fuel economy:
•Accelerate and slow down in a smooth,moderate fashion.
•Drive at steady speeds.
•Anticipate stops; slowing down mayeliminate the need to stop.
•Combine errands and minimizestop-and-go driving (When runningerrands, go to the furthest destinationfirst and then work your way backhome).
•Close the windows for high-speeddriving.
•Drive at reasonable speeds.
•Keep the tires properly inflated and useonly the recommended size.
•Use the recommended engine oil.
•Perform all regularly scheduledmaintenance.
There are also some things you may wantto avoid doing because they reduce yourfuel economy:
•Avoid sudden or hard accelerations.
•Avoid revving the engine before turningoff the car.
•Avoid long idle periods.
•Do not warm up your vehicle on coldmornings.
•Reduce the use of air conditioning andheat.
•Avoid using speed control in hillyterrain.
•Do not rest your foot on the brakepedal while driving.
•Avoid carrying unnecessary weight.
•Avoid adding particular accessories toyour vehicle (e.g. bug deflectors,rollbars/light bars, running boards, skiracks).
•Avoid driving with the wheels out ofalignment.
COLD WEATHER
PRECAUTIONS
The functional operation of somecomponents and systems can be affectedat temperatures below -13°F (-25°C).
DRIVING THROUGH WATER
WARNING: Do not drive throughflowing or deep water as you may losecontrol of your vehicle.
Note:Driving through standing water cancause vehicle damage.
Note:Engine damage can occur if waterenters the air filter.
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