warning FORD EXPLORER 2011 5.G Owners Manual

Fuel quality
If you are experiencing starting, rough idle or hesitation driveability
problems during a cold start, try a different brand of “Regular” unleaded
gasoline. Premium unleaded gasoline is not recommended for vehicles
designed to use “Regular” unleaded gasoline because it may cause these
problems to become more pronounced. If the problems persist, see your
authorized dealer.
Do not add aftermarket fuel additive products to your fuel tank. It
should not be necessary to add any aftermarket products to your fuel
tank if you continue to use high quality fuel of the recommended octane
rating. These products have not been approved for your engine and
could cause damage to the fuel system. Repairs to correct the effects of
using an aftermarket product in your fuel may not be covered by your
warranty.
Many of the world’s automakers approved the World-Wide Fuel Charter
that recommends gasoline specifications to provide improved
performance and emission control system protection for your vehicle.
Gasolines that meet the World-Wide Fuel Charter should be used when
available. Ask your fuel supplier about gasolines that meet the
World-Wide Fuel Charter.
Cleaner air
Ford endorses the use of reformulated “cleaner-burning” gasolines to
improve air quality, per the recommendations in theChoosing the right
fuelsection.
Running out of fuel
Avoid running out of fuel because this situation may have an adverse
effect on powertrain components.
If you have run out of fuel:
•You may need to cycle the ignition from off to on several times after
refueling to allow the fuel system to pump the fuel from the tank to
the engine. On restarting, cranking time will take a few seconds longer
than normal.
•Normally, adding 1 gallon (3.8L) of fuel is enough to restart the
engine. If the vehicle is out of fuel and on a steep grade, more than
1 gallon (3.8L) may be required.
•The service engine soon
indicator may come on. For more
information on the service engine soon indicator, refer toWarning
lights and chimesin theInstrument Clusterchapter.
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Refilling with a portable fuel container
With the Easy Fuel™ “no cap” fuel system, use the following directions
when filling from a portable fuel container:
WARNING:Do not insert the nozzle of portable fuel containers
or aftermarket funnels into the Easy Fuel™ system. This could
damage the fuel system and its seal, and may cause fuel to run onto
the ground instead of filling the tank, which could result in serious
personal injury.
WARNING:Do not try to pry open or push open the Easy
Fuel™ system with foreign objects. This could damage the fuel
system and its seal and cause injury to you or others.
When filling the vehicle’s fuel tank from a portable fuel container, use the
included funnel.
1. Locate the white plastic funnel. It
is attached to the underside of the
spare tire cover or is included with
the tire changing tools.
2. Slowly insert the funnel into the Easy Fuel™ system.
3. Fill the vehicle with fuel from the portable fuel container.
4. When done, clean the funnel or properly dispose of it. Extra funnels
can be purchased from your authorized dealer if you choose to dispose
of the funnel.Do notuse aftermarket funnels; they will not work with
the Easy Fuel™ system and can damage it. The included funnel has
been specially designed to work safely with your vehicle.
Maintenance and Specifications
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EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
Your vehicle is equipped with various emission control components and a
catalytic converter which will enable your vehicle to comply with
applicable exhaust emission standards. To make sure that the catalytic
converter and other emission control components continue to work
properly:
•Use only the specified fuel listed.
•Avoid running out of fuel.
•Do not turn off the ignition while your vehicle is moving, especially at
high speeds.
•Have the items listed inscheduled maintenance information
performed according to the specified schedule.
The scheduled maintenance items listed inscheduled maintenance
informationare essential to the life and performance of your vehicle
and to its emissions system.
If other than Ford, Motorcraftor Ford-authorized parts are used for
maintenance replacements or for service of components affecting
emission control, such non-Ford parts should be equivalent to genuine
Ford Motor Company parts in performance and durability.
WARNING:Do not park, idle, or drive your vehicle in dry grass
or other dry ground cover. The emission system heats up the
engine compartment and exhaust system, which can start a fire.
Illumination of the service engine soon
indicator, charging system
warning light or the temperature warning light, fluid leaks, strange odors,
smoke or loss of engine power could indicate that the emission control
system is not working properly.
An improperly operating or damaged exhaust system may allow exhaust
to enter the vehicle. Have a damaged or improperly operating exhaust
system inspected and repaired immediately.
WARNING:Exhaust leaks may result in entry of harmful and
potentially lethal fumes into the passenger compartment.
Maintenance and Specifications
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BRAKE FLUID
The fluid level will drop slowly as
the brakes wear, and will rise when
the brake components are replaced.
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.
TRANSMISSION FLUID
Checking automatic transmission fluid
Refer to yourscheduled maintenance informationfor 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. To obtain an
accurate fluid check, drive the vehicle until it is warmed up
(approximately 20 miles [30 km]). If your vehicle has been
operated for an extended period at high speeds, in city traffic
during hot weather or pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be
turned off until normal operating temperatures are reached to
allow the fluid to cool before checking. Depending on vehicle use,
cooling times could take up to 30 minutes or longer.
WARNING:The dipstick cap and surrounding components may
be hot; gloves are recommended.
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.
3. With the parking brake engaged and your foot on the brake pedal,
start the engine and move the gearshift lever through all of the gear
ranges. Allow a minimum of 10 seconds for each gear to engage.
MAX
MIN
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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
Maintenance product specifications and capacitiessection in this
chapter.
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.
If an overfill occurs, excess fluid
should be removed by an authorized
dealer.
An overfill condition of
transmission fluid may cause shift and/or engagement concerns
and/or possible damage.
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.
AIR FILTER
Refer toscheduled maintenance informationfor the appropriate
intervals for changing the air filter element.
When changing the air filter element, use only the air filter element
listed. Refer toMotorcraftpart numbersin this chapter.
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.
MAX MIN
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Owner checks and services
Certain basic maintenance checks and inspections should be performed
by the owner or a service technician at the intervals indicated. Service
information and supporting specifications are provided in this owner’s
guide.
Any adverse condition should be brought to the attention of your dealer
or qualified service technician as soon as possible for the proper service
advice. The owner maintenance service checks are generally not covered
by warranties so you may be charged for labor, parts or fluids used.
Engine oil/coolant change intervals
Engine oilAs indicated by the message center (can be up
to one year or 10,000 miles [16,000 km])
Engine coolant,
initial change6 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km)
(whichever comes first)
Engine coolant,
after initial changeEvery 3 years or 50,000 miles (80,000 km)
Check every month
Engine oil level
Function of all interior and exterior lights
Tires for wear and proper pressure, including spare
Windshield washer fluid level
Check every six months
Battery connections; clean if necessary
Body and door drain holes for obstructions; clean if necessary
Cooling system fluid level and coolant strength
Door weatherstrips for wear; lubricate if necessary
Hinges/latches/outside locks for proper operation; lubricate if necessary
Parking brake for proper operation
Safety belts and seat latches for wear and function
Safety warning lamps (brake, ABS, airbag, safety belt) for operation
Washer spray/wiper operation; clean or replace blades as necessary
Scheduled Maintenance Guide
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Multi-point inspection
In order to keep your vehicle running right, it is important to have the
systems on your vehicle checked regularly. This can help identify
potential issues and prevent major problems. Ford Motor Company
recommends the following multi-point inspection be performed at every
scheduled maintenance interval to help ensure your vehicle keeps
running great.
Multi-point inspection – Recommended each visit
Accessory drive belt(s) Half-shaft dust boots (if equipped)
Battery performance Horn operation
Clutch operation (if equipped) Radiator, cooler, heater and A/C hoses
Engine air filter Suspension components for leaks and
damage
Exhaust system Steering and linkage
Exterior lamps and hazard
warning system operationTires for wear and proper pressure,
including spare
Fluid levels*; fill if necessary Windshield for cracks, chips or pits
For oil and fluid leaks Washer spray and wiper operation
*Brake, coolant recovery reservoir, manual and automatic transmission
(with an underhood dipstick), power steering (if equipped) and
window washer
Be sure to ask your dealership service advisor or technician about the
multi-point vehicle inspection. It’s a comprehensive way to perform a
thorough inspection of your vehicle. It’s your checklist that gives you
immediate feedback on the overall condition of your vehicle. You’ll know
what’s been checked, what’s okay, as well as those things that may
require future or immediate attention. The multi-point vehicle inspection
is one more way to keep your vehicle running great!
Scheduled Maintenance Guide
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A
Accessory delay ..........................99
Active Park Assist .....................303
Adaptive Cruise Control ...........105
AdvanceTrac ..............................277
Airbag supplemental restraint
system ........................197, 206, 208
and child safety seats ............199
description ..............197, 206, 208
disposal ....................................211
driver airbag ............199, 206, 209
indicator light .................205, 210
operation .................199, 206, 209
passenger airbag .....199, 206, 209
side airbag ...............................206
Air cleaner filter .......406–407, 410
Air conditioning ..............63, 66, 68
manual heating and air
conditioning system .................63
All Wheel Drive (AWD),
driving off road .........................316
Ambulance packages ....................7
Antifreeze
(see Engine coolant) ................385
Anti-lock brake system
(see Brakes) ......................274–275
Anti-theft system ..............154, 158
arming the system ..........154, 158
disarming a triggered
system .....................................158
Automatic transmission
driving an automatic
overdrive .................................288
fluid, adding ............................404
fluid, checking ........................404
fluid, refill capacities ..............411
fluid, specification ..................411Selectshift (SST) ....................291
Auxiliary input jack (Line in) ....60
Auxiliary power point .................96
Axle
lubricant specifications ..........411
refill capacities ........................411
B
Battery .......................................382
acid, treating emergencies .....382
jumping a disabled battery ....354
maintenance-free ....................382
replacement, specifications ...410
servicing ..................................382
Belt-Minder.............................193
Blind Spot Information
System .......................................310
Blind spot mirror ......................309
Booster seats .............................228
Brakes ........................................274
anti-lock ...........................274–275
anti-lock brake system (ABS)
warning light ...........................275
fluid, checking and adding ....404
fluid, refill capacities ..............411
fluid, specifications .................411
lubricant specifications ..........411
parking ....................................276
shift interlock ..........................287
C
Capacities for refilling fluids ....411
Car2UHome Automation
System .......................................116
Cargo net ...................................122
Cell phone use ............................10
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Changing a tire .........................336
Child safety seats ......................216
in front seat ............................217
in rear seat ..............................217
LATCH .....................................222
recommendations ...................214
tether anchorage hardware ...224
Child safety seats - booster
seats ...........................................228
Cleaning your vehicle
engine compartment ..............369
instrument panel ....................370
interior .....................................371
plastic parts ............................369
washing ....................................367
waxing .....................................368
wheels ......................................368
wiper blades ............................370
Climate control
(see Air conditioning or
Heating) ...........................63, 66, 68
Clock ............................................52
Collision Warning System .........300
Console ..................................95–96
overhead ....................................95
rear ............................................96
Controls
power seat ...............................163
steering column ......................113
Coolant
checking and adding ..............385
refill capacities ................388, 411
specifications ..........................411
Cross Traffic Alert ....................310
Cruise control
(see Speed control) ..................103
Customer Assistance ................325Ford Extended Service
Plan ..................................419, 422
Getting assistance outside
the U.S. and Canada ..............363
Getting roadside assistance ...325
Getting the service you
need .........................................359
Ordering additional owner’s
literature .................................365
Utilizing the
Mediation/Arbitration
Program ...................................363
D
Daytime running lamps
(see Lamps) ................................79
Defrost
rear window ..............................75
Dipstick
automatic transmission
fluid ..........................................404
engine oil .................................380
Driving under special
conditions ..................293, 317, 320
sand .........................................319
snow and ice ...........................321
through water .................319, 324
E
Electronic message center ...23, 34
Emergencies, roadside
jump-starting ..........................354
running out of fuel .........353, 396
Emission control system ..........401
Engine ........................................414
cleaning ...................................369
coolant .....................................385
fail-safe cooling .......................390
Index
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Inspection/maintenance (I/M)
testing ........................................403
Instrument panel
cleaning ...................................370
cluster ........................................14
lighting up panel and
interior .......................................79
Intelligent Access Key ..............131
Intelligent Access with push
button start ...............................143
J
Jack ............................................336
positioning ...............................336
storage .....................................336
Jump-starting your vehicle ......354
K
Keyless entry system
autolock ...................................139
keypad .....................................152
locking and unlocking doors ..153
programming entry code .......152
Keys ...................................130, 155
positions of the ignition .........267
L
Lamps
autolamp system .......................77
bulb replacement
specifications chart ............84–85
daytime running light ...............79
fog lamps ...................................78
headlamps .................................77
headlamps, flash to pass ..........78
instrument panel, dimming .....79
interior lamps ...........................83
LATCH anchors .........................222Liftgate ......................123–124, 145
Lights, warning and indicator ....14
anti-lock brakes (ABS) ..........275
Loading instructions .................261
Load limits .................................255
Locks
autolock ...................................139
childproof ................................142
doors ........................................138
Lubricant specifications ...........411
Luggage rack .............................128
Lug nuts ....................................352
Lumbar support, seats .....163, 165
M
Message center .....................23, 34
warning messages ...............27, 43
Mirrors ...............................100–101
automatic dimming rearview
mirror ......................................100
fold away .................................102
heated ......................................101
programmable memory ..........145
side view mirrors (power) .....101
signal .......................................102
Moon roof ..................................114
Motorcraftparts ..............374, 410
MyFord Connect™ system ........62
MyFord Touch™ system ............62
MyFord™ system ..................51, 62
MyKey ........................................132
O
Octane rating ............................395
Oil (see Engine oil) ..................380
Index
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