warning FORD ESCAPE 2013 3.G Owners Manual

PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION
Cruise control lets you maintain a set
speed without keeping your foot on the
accelerator pedal.
USING CRUISE CONTROL
WARNING
Do not use cruise control in heavy
traffic or on roads that are winding,
slippery or unpaved.
Note:Vehicle speed may vary momentarily
when driving up or down a steep hill. Apply
the brakes if the vehicle speed increases
above the set speed while driving downhill.
Note: Cruise control will disengage if the
vehicle speed decreases more than 10 mph
(16 km/h) below your set speed while
driving uphill.
Switching On Cruise Control
Press and release ON.
Setting a Speed
Press and release SET+.
The indicator will display in the
instrument cluster. Changing the Set Speed
Accelerate
A
Decelerate
B
• Press and hold SET+ or SET-. Release
the control when you reach the desired
speed.
• Press and release SET+ or SET-. The
set speed will change in approximately
1 mph (2 km/h) increments.
• Press the accelerator or brake pedal
until you reach the desired speed. Press
and release SET+.
Canceling a Set Speed
Pull CAN toward you and release, or tap
the brake pedal. The set speed will not be
erased.
Resuming a Set Speed
Pull RES toward you and release.
Switching Off Cruise Control
Note: The set speed is erased when you
switch off cruise control.
Press and release OFF or switch off the
ignition.
170
Cruise Control
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BLIND SPOT MONITOR
Blind Spot Information System
(BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert (If
Equipped)
WARNING
To help avoid injuries, NEVER use the
BLIS as a replacement for using the
interior and exterior mirrors and
looking over your shoulder before changing
lanes. BLIS is not a replacement for careful
driving and only an assist.
BLIS aids you in detecting vehicles that
may have entered the blind spot zone (A).
The detection area is on both sides of the
vehicle, extending rearward from the
exterior mirrors to approximately 10 feet
(3 meters) beyond the bumper. The
system alerts you if certain vehicles enter
the blind spot zone while driving.
Cross traffic alert warns you of vehicles
approaching from the sides when the
transmission is in R (Reverse). Note:
BLIS is not designed to prevent
contact with other vehicles or objects; or to
detect parked vehicles, people, animals or
infrastructure (fences, guardrails, trees,
etc.). It is designed to alert the driver to
vehicles in the blind zones.
Note: When a vehicle passes quickly
through the blind zone, typically fewer than
two seconds, the system does not trigger.
Using the Systems
BLIS turns on when the engine is started
and the vehicle is driven forward above 3
mph (5 km/h); it remains on while the
transmission is in D (Drive) and N
(Neutral). If shifted out of D (Drive) or N
(Neutral), the system enters cross traffic
alert mode. Once shifted back into D
(Drive), BLIS turns back on when the
vehicle is driven above 3 mph (5 km/h).
Note: BLIS does not function in R (Reverse)
or P (Park) or provide any additional
warning when a turn signal is on.
Cross traffic alert detects approaching
vehicles from up to 45 feet (14 meters)
away though coverage decreases when the
sensors are blocked. Reversing slowly helps
increase the coverage area and
effectiveness.
WARNING
To help avoid personal injury, NEVER
use the cross traffic alert system as
a replacement for using the interior
and exterior mirrors and looking over your
shoulder before backing out of a parking
space. Cross traffic alert is not a
replacement for careful driving and only
an assist.
171
Driving Aids
A
A
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System Lights and Messages
The BLIS and cross traffic alert systems
illuminate a yellow alert indicator in the
outside mirror on the side of the vehicle
the approaching vehicle is coming from.
Note:The alert indicator dims when
nighttime darkness is detected.
Cross traffic alert also sounds a series of
tones and a message appears in the
information display indicating a vehicle is
coming from the right or left. Cross traffic
alert works with the reverse sensing
system which sounds its own series of
tones. See Parking Aid (page 161).
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 BLIS as a replacement for using
the side and rear view mirrors and looking
over your shoulder before changing lanes.
BLIS is 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 your 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, a message warning
of a blocked sensor or a message warning
of low visibility will appear 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:
• when at least two objects are detected
while driving, or
• turn the ignition 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.
173
Driving Aids
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STEERING
Electric Power Steering
WARNINGS
The electric power steering system
has diagnostic checks that
continuously monitor the system to
ensure proper operation. When a system
error is detected a steering message will
appear in the information display.
The electric power steering system
has diagnostic checks that
continuously monitor the system to
ensure proper operation of the electronic
system. When an electronic error is
detected, a message 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 a
steering message. If a steering message
returns, or returns while driving, take the
vehicle to your dealer to have it checked.
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.
Your vehicle is equipped with an electric
power-assisted steering system. There is
no fluid reservoir to check or fill. If your vehicle loses electrical power while
you are driving (or if the ignition is turned
off), you can steer the vehicle manually,
but it takes more effort. Extreme
continuous steering may increase the effort
it takes for you to steer. This occurs to
prevent internal overheating and
permanent damage to your steering
system. If this should occur, you will neither
lose the ability to steer the vehicle
manually nor will it cause permanent
damage. Typical steering and driving
maneuvers will allow the system to cool
and steering assist will return to normal.
Steering Tips
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 crosswinds
may also make the steering seem to
wander or pull.
176
Driving Aids

REAR UNDER FLOOR
STORAGE
Passenger Compartment Floor
The under floor storage compartment is
located behind the front passenger seat.
Cargo Management System (If
Equipped)
The system is located in the floor of the
cargo area. Lift the handle to open.Adjustable Load Floor (If Equipped)
Vehicles with the standard size spare tire
can adjust the load floor to two positions.
The front of the load floor can be placed
either on (for high position) or below (for
low position) the ledges behind the rear
seats. The rear of the load floor always sits
on the two small shelves located on the
liftgate trim.
LUGGAGE COVERS
WARNINGS
Make sure that the posts are properly
latched in mounting features. The
cover may cause injury in a sudden
stop or accident if it is not securely
installed.
Do not place any objects on the
cargo area shade. They may obstruct
your vision or strike occupants of
vehicle in the case of a sudden stop or
collision.
Use the shade to cover items in the cargo
area of your vehicle.
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Load Carrying
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Insert the ends of the cargo shade into the
mounting features located behind the rear
seat on the rear trim panels to install the
shade.
To operate the shade:
1. Pull the rear edge of the cargo shaderearward.
2. Secure both ends of the support rod into the retention slots located on the
rear quarter trim panels.
ROOF RACKS AND LOAD
CARRIERS
WARNING
When loading the roof rail crossbars,
it is recommended to evenly
distribute the load, as well as
maintain a low center of gravity. Loaded
vehicles, with higher centers of gravity, may
handle differently than unloaded vehicles.
Extra precautions, such as slower speeds
and increased stopping distance, should
be taken when driving a heavily loaded
vehicle.
The maximum recommended load, evenly
distributed on the crossbars, is:
• 100 pounds (45 kilograms) for vehicles
without a moonroof
• 45 pounds (20 kilograms) for vehicles
with a moonroof.
Note: Loads should never be placed directly
on the roof panel. The roof panel is not
designed to directly carry a load.
For proper function of the roof rack system,
loads must be placed directly on crossbars
affixed to the roof rack side rails. Your
vehicle may be equipped with
factory-installed crossbars. Ford Genuine
Accessory crossbars, designed specifically
for your vehicle, are also recommended for
use with your roof rack system.
Make sure that the load is securely
fastened. Check the tightness of the load
before driving and at each fuel stop.
Adjusting the Crossbar (If Equipped)
Note: Wind noise can be minimized by
either removing or repositioning the crossbar
when not is use. Position the front crossbar
in the rearward position to minimize wind
noise. The front crossbar can be adjusted
or removed using the steps below. The rear
crossbar fasteners can be removed by
unscrewing the assembly.
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Load Carrying
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Payload - is the combined weight of cargo
and passengers that the vehicle is carrying.
The maximum payload for your vehicle can
be found on the Tire Label on the B-Pillar
or the edge of the driver’s door (vehicles
exported outside the US and Canada may
not have a Tire Label). Look for “THE
COMBINED WEIGHT OF OCCUPANTS
AND CARGO SHOULD NEVER EXCEED
XXX kg OR XXX lb. ” for maximum
payload. The payload listed on the Tire
Label is the maximum payload for the
vehicle as built by the assembly plant. If
any aftermarket or authorized-dealer
installed equipment has been installed on
the vehicle, the weight of the equipment
must be subtracted from the payload
listed on the Tire Label in order to
determine the new payload.WARNING
The appropriate loading capacity of
your vehicle can be limited either by
volume capacity (how much space
is available) or by payload capacity (how
much weight the vehicle should carry).
Once you have reached the maximum
payload of your vehicle, do not add more
cargo, even if there is space available.
Overloading or improperly loading your
vehicle can contribute to loss of vehicle
control and vehicle rollover.
Example only:
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Load Carrying
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WARNING
Exceeding the Safety Compliance
Certification Label vehicle weight
rating limits could result in
substandard vehicle handling or
performance, engine, transmission and/or
structural damage, serious damage to the
vehicle, loss of control and personal injury.
GCW (Gross Combined Weight) - is the
weight of the loaded vehicle (GVW) plus
the weight of the fully loaded trailer
GCWR (Gross Combined Weight
Rating) -is the maximum allowable
weight of the vehicle and the loaded trailer
-including all cargo and passengers - that
the vehicle can handle without risking
damage. (Important: The towing vehicle ’s
braking system is rated for operation at
GVWR, not at GCWR.) Separate functional
brakes should be used for safe control of
towed vehicles and for trailers where the
GCW of the towing vehicle plus the trailer
exceed the GVWR of the towing vehicle.
The GCW must never exceed the GCWR.
Maximum Loaded Trailer Weight - is the
highest possible weight of a fully loaded
trailer the vehicle can tow. It assumes a
vehicle with only mandatory options, no
cargo (internal or external), a tongue load
of 10– 15% (conventional trailer) or king
pin weight of 15– 25% (fifth wheel trailer),
and driver only (150 lb. [68 kg]). Consult
your authorized dealer (or the RV and
Trailer Towing Guide provided by your
authorized dealer) for more detailed
information. Tongue Load or Fifth Wheel King Pin
Weight - refers to the amount of the
weight that a trailer pushes down on a
trailer hitch.
Examples: For a 5000 lb. (2268 kg)
conventional trailer, multiply 5000 by 0.10
and 0.15 to obtain a proper tongue load
range of 500 to 750 lb. (227 to 340 kg).
For an 11500 lb. (5216 kg) fifth wheel
trailer, multiply by 0.15 and 0.25 to obtain
a proper king pin load range of 1725 to 2875
lb. (782 to 1304 kg).
WARNINGS
Do not exceed the GVWR or the
GAWR specified on the Safety
Compliance Certification Label.
Do not use replacement tires with
lower load carrying capacities than
the original tires because they may
lower the vehicle ’s GVWR and GAWR
limitations. Replacement tires with a higher
limit than the original tires do not increase
the GVWR and GAWR limitations.
Exceeding any vehicle weight rating
limitation could result in serious
damage to the vehicle and/or
personal injury.
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Load Carrying
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Special Loading Instructions for
Owners of Pick-up Trucks and
Utility-type Vehicles
WARNING
Loaded vehicles may handle
differently than unloaded vehicles.
Extra precautions, such as slower
speeds and increased stopping distance,
should be taken when driving a heavily
loaded vehicle.
Your vehicle can haul more cargo and
people than most passenger cars.
Depending upon the type and placement
of the load, hauling cargo and people may
raise the center of gravity of the vehicle.
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Load Carrying

TOWING A TRAILER
WARNINGS
Do not exceed the GVWR or the
GAWR specified on the certification
label.
Towing trailers beyond the maximum
recommended gross trailer weight
exceeds the limit of the vehicle and
could result in engine damage,
transmission damage, structural damage,
loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover and
personal injury.
Your vehicle's load capacity is designated
by weight, not by volume, so you cannot
necessarily use all available space when
loading a vehicle.
Towing a trailer places an additional load
on your vehicle's engine, transmission, axle,
brakes, tires and suspension. Inspect these
components periodically during, and after,
any towing operation.
TRAILER SWAY CONTROL (IF
EQUIPPED)
Note: This feature does not prevent trailer
sway, but reduces it once it begins. Note:
This feature cannot stop all trailers
from swaying.
Note: In some cases, if vehicle speed is too
high, the system may activate multiple
times, gradually reducing vehicle speed.
This feature applies the vehicle brakes at
individual wheels and, if necessary, reduces
engine power. If the trailer begins to sway,
the stability control light flashes. The first
thing to do is slow the vehicle down, then
pull safely to the side of the road and
check for proper tongue load and trailer
load distribution. See Load Carrying
(page 177).
RECOMMENDED TOWING
WEIGHTS
Note: For high altitude operation, reduce
the gross combined weight by 2% per 1000
feet (300 meters) elevation.
Note: Certain states require electric trailer
brakes for trailers over a specified weight.
Be sure to check state regulations for this
specified weight. The maximum trailer
weights listed may be limited to this
specified weight, as the vehicle's electrical
system does not include the wiring
connector needed to activate electric trailer
brakes.
Maximum Trailer
Frontal Area - ft 2
(m 2
)
Maximum Trailer
Weight - lb (kg)
Maximum GCWR - lb
(kg)
Powertrain
20 (1.86)
2000 (907)
5866 (2661)
2WD 1.6L
20 (1.86)
2000 (907)
6035 (2737)
4WD 1.6L
20 (1.86)
2000 (907)
5977 (2711)
2WD 2.0L 1
30 (2.78)
3500 (1588)
7477 (3391)
2WD 2.0L 2
20 (1.86)
2000 (907)
6126 (2779)
4WD 2.0L 1
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Towing