check transmission fluid FORD EXPLORER 2016 5.G Owners Manual

Trailer Sway Control...................................244
Recommended Towing Weights...........244
Essential Towing Checks..........................246
Transporting the Vehicle
..........................248
Towing the Vehicle on Four Wheels - 2.3L EcoBoost™......................................249
Towing the Vehicle on Four Wheels - 3.5L Duratec/
3.5L Ecoboost™..........250
Driving Hints
Breaking-In.....................................................252
Economical Driving
.....................................252
Driving Through Water...............................253
Floor Mats
.......................................................253
Roadside Emergencies
Roadside Assistance..................................255
Hazard Warning Flashers.........................256
Fuel Shutoff...................................................256
Jump Starting the Vehicle.........................257
Post-Crash Alert System..........................259
Customer Assistance
Getting the Services You Need..............260
In California (U.S. Only).............................261
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) Auto Line Program (U.S. Only)......................262
Utilizing the Mediation/Arbitration Program (Canada Only).......................262
Getting Assistance Outside the U.S. and Canada........................................................263
Ordering Additional Owner's Literature....................................................264
Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only)............................................................264
Reporting Safety Defects (Canada Only)............................................................265
Fuses
Fuse Specification Chart..........................266
Changing a Fuse
...........................................274 Maintenance
General Information....................................275
Opening and Closing the Hood..............276
Under Hood Overview -
2.3L
EcoBoost™................................................278
Under Hood Overview -
3.5L
Duratec........................................................279
Under Hood Overview -
3.5L
Ecoboost™...............................................280
Engine Oil Dipstick -
2.3L
EcoBoost™.................................................281
Engine Oil Dipstick -
3.5L Duratec/3.5L
Ecoboost™.................................................281
Engine Oil Check...........................................281
Oil Change Indicator Reset......................282
Engine Coolant Check...............................282
Automatic Transmission Fluid Check - 2.3L EcoBoost™......................................286
Automatic Transmission Fluid Check - 3.5L Duratec/
3.5L Ecoboost™..........286
Brake Fluid Check........................................288
Power Steering Fluid Check....................288
Washer Fluid Check
....................................288
Fuel Filter
........................................................289
Changing the 12V Battery.........................289
Checking the Wiper Blades.....................290
Changing the Wiper Blades......................291
Adjusting the Headlamps..........................291
Removing a Headlamp..............................293
Changing a Bulb
...........................................293
Bulb Specification Chart...........................297
Changing the Engine Air Filter................299
Vehicle Care
General Information
..................................300
Cleaning Products
......................................300
Cleaning the Exterior
.................................300
Waxing
..............................................................301
Cleaning the Engine
....................................301
Cleaning the Windows and Wiper Blades..........................................................302
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Low Washer Fluid
It illuminates when the
windshield washer fluid is low.
Parking Lamps It illuminates when you switch
the parking lamps on.
Powertrain Fault Illuminates when the system
detects a powertrain or an 4WD
fault. Contact an authorized
dealer as soon as possible.
Service Engine Soon If the service engine soon
indicator light stays illuminated
after you start the engine, it
indicates that the On Board Diagnostics
system (OBD) has detected a malfunction
of the vehicle emissions control system.
Refer to On board diagnostics (OBD) in
the Fuel and Refueling chapter for more
information about having your vehicle
serviced. See Emission Control System
(page 177).
If the light is blinking, engine misfire is
occurring which could damage your
catalytic converter. Drive in a moderate
fashion (avoid heavy acceleration and
deceleration) and have your vehicle
serviced immediately. WARNING
Under engine misfire conditions,
excessive exhaust temperatures
could damage the catalytic
converter, the fuel system, interior floor
coverings or other vehicle components,
possibly causing a fire. Have an authorized
dealer service your vehicle immediately. The service engine soon indicator light
illuminates when you first switch on the
ignition before engine start to check the
bulb and to indicate whether the vehicle
is ready for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M)
testing.
Normally, the service engine soon light
stays on until you crank the engine, then
turns itself off if no malfunctions are
present. However, if after 15 seconds the
service engine soon light blinks eight times,
it means that the vehicle is not ready for
I/M testing. See
Emission Control
System (page 177).
Stability Control It flashes when the system is
active. If it remains illuminated
or does not illuminate when you
switch the ignition on, this indicates a
malfunction. During a malfunction the
system switches off. Have the system
checked by an authorized dealer
immediately. See
Using Stability
Control (page 194).
Stability Control Off It illuminates when you switch
the system off. It goes out when
you switch the system back on
or when you switch the ignition off. See
Using Stability Control
(page 194).
Transmission Tow/Haul
(If Equipped) Illuminates when you activate
the tow/haul feature. If the light
flashes steadily, have the system
serviced immediately. Damage to the
transmission could occur. See
Automatic
Transmission (page 180).
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The following are other situations that may
limit the cross traffic alert system
performance:
•
Adjacently parked vehicles or objects
obstructing the sensors.
• Approaching vehicles passing at
speeds greater than 37 mph
(60 km/h).
• Backing out of an angled parking spot.
False Alerts
Note: If your vehicle has a tow bar with a
factory equipped trailer tow module and it
is towing a trailer, the sensors will
automatically turn the cross traffic alert off.
If your vehicle has a tow bar but no factory
equipped trailer tow module, it is
recommended to turn the cross traffic alert
off manually. Operating cross traffic alert
with a trailer attached will cause poor cross
traffic alert system performance.
There may be certain instances when there
is a false alert by the Cross Traffic Alert
system that illuminates the alert indicator
with no vehicle in the coverage zone. Some
amount of false alerts are normal; they are
temporary and self-correct.
System Errors
If cross traffic alert senses a problem with
the left or right sensor, a message will
appear in the information display. See
General Information
(page 101).
Switching the System Off and On
You can temporarily switch cross traffic
alert off in the information display. See
General Information
(page 101). When
you switch cross traffic alert off, you will
not receive alerts and the information
display will display a system off message. Note:
The cross traffic alert system always
switches on whenever the ignition is
switched on and ready to provide
appropriate alerts when the transmission is
in reverse (R). Cross Traffic Alert will not
remember the last selected on or off setting.
You can have cross traffic alert switched
off permanently at an authorized dealer.
Once switched off permanently, the
system can only be switched back on at
an authorized dealer.
STEERING
Electric Power Steering WARNING
The electric power steering system
has diagnostic checks that
continuously monitor the system. If
a fault is detected, a message displays in
the information display. Stop your vehicle
as soon as it is safe to do so. Switch the
ignition off. After at least 10 seconds,
switch the ignition on and watch the
information display for a steering system
warning message. If a steering system
warning message returns, have the system
checked by an authorized dealer. Your vehicle has an electric power steering
system. There is no fluid reservoir. No
maintenance is required.
If your vehicle loses electrical power while
you are driving, electric power steering
assistance is lost. The steering system still
operates and you can steer your vehicle
manually. Manually steering your vehicle
requires more effort.
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UNDER HOOD OVERVIEW - 3.5L DURATEC
Engine coolant reservoir. See Engine Coolant Check (page 282).
A
Brake fluid reservoir.
See Brake Fluid Check (page 288).
B
Battery.
See Changing the 12V Battery (page 289).
C
Power distribution box.
See Fuses (page 266).
D
Air filter assembly.
See Changing the Engine Air Filter (page 299).
E
Engine oil dipstick.
See Engine Oil Dipstick (page 281).
F
Engine oil filler cap.
See Engine Oil Check (page 281).
G
Windshield washer fluid reservoir.
See Washer Fluid Check (page 288).
H
Automatic transmission fluid dipstick.
See Automatic Transmission Fluid
Check (page 286).
J
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ABCD
E188731

UNDER HOOD OVERVIEW - 3.5L ECOBOOST™
Engine coolant reservoir. See Engine Coolant Check (page 282).
A.
Engine oil filler cap. See
Engine Oil Check (page 281).
B.
Engine oil dipstick. See
Engine Oil Dipstick (page 281).
C.
Brake fluid reservoir. See
Brake Fluid Check (page 288).
D.
Battery. See
Changing the 12V Battery (page 289).
E.
Power distribution box. See
Fuses (page 266).
F.
Air filter assembly. See
Changing the Engine Air Filter (page 299).
G.
Automatic transmission dipstick (under air filter assembly). See
Automatic
Transmission Fluid Check (page 286).
H.
Windshield washer fluid reservoir. See
Washer Fluid Check (page 288).
I.
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If the engine coolant temperature gauge
moves fully into the red (hot) area, or if the
coolant temperature warning or service
engine soon messages appear in your
information display:
1. Pull off the road as soon as safely
possible and shift the transmission into
P.
2. Leave the engine running until the coolant temperature gauge needle
moves away from the red (hot) area.
After several minutes, if the
temperature does not drop, follow the
remaining steps.
3. Switch the engine off and wait for it to
cool before checking the coolant level.
4. If the coolant level is normal, restart your engine and continue.
5. If the coolant is low, add coolant, and restart the engine. See Adding Engine
Coolant
or How Fail-Safe Cooling
Works in this chapter for more
information.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID CHECK - 2.3L
ECOBOOST™
Note: Transmission fluid should be checked
by an authorized dealer. If required, fluid
should be added by an authorized dealer.
The automatic transmission does not have
a transmission fluid dipstick.
Have an authorized dealer check and
change the transmission fluid at the
correct service interval. See
Scheduled
Maintenance (page 486). 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. 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.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID CHECK - 3.5L DURATEC/
3.5L ECOBOOST™
WARNING
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. The transmission does not consume fluid.
However, if the transmission slips or shifts
slowly you should check the fluid level. If
you notice a sign of leaking fluid, contact
an authorized dealer.
Checking the Transmission Fluid
Level
WARNING
The dipstick and surrounding
components are hot. Use gloves
when moving components and
checking the transmission fluid level.
Failure to follow this warning could result
in serious personal injury. Only check the transmission fluid level
when the engine is at normal operating
temperature 179°F (82°C)-199°F (93°C).
Normal operating temperature is reached
after driving approximately 20 mi (30 km).
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Minimum.
A
Maximum.
B
Note: Check the fluid level with the engine
running and the transmission in park (P).
1. Make sure that your vehicle is on level ground.
2. Rotate the automatic transmission fluid cap in a counterclockwise
direction. See Under Hood Overview
(page 279).
3. Remove the cap and dipstick and wipe
it with a clean, lint-free cloth. Replace
the cap and dipstick and remove it
again to check the fluid level.
4. Make sure that the fluid level is between the MIN and the MAX marks.
If the fluid level is at the MIN mark, add
fluid immediately. See
Adding
Transmission Fluid.
5. Replace the automatic transmission fluid cap and dipstick. Turn it clockwise
until you feel a strong resistance.
Low Fluid Level
If the fluid level is within the minimum
range (below point A) add the correct
specification fluid to be within the hash
mark area. See
Capacities and
Specifications (page 344).
Note: If the fluid level is below the
minimum range do not drive your vehicle. A
low fluid level can damage the transmission. Correct Fluid Level
If the fluid level is within the hash mark
area (between points A and B) do not add
any fluid.
High Fluid Level
If the fluid level is above the maximum
range (above point B) fluid may need to
be removed. High fluid levels may be
caused by a overheating condition. If you
have operated your vehicle at high speeds,
towing a trailer or in city traffic during hot
weather, allow your vehicle to cool for a
minimum of 30 minutes before rechecking
the level.
Note:
An overfill condition can damage the
transmission.
Adding Transmission Fluid
1. Rotate the automatic transmission fluid cap in a counterclockwise
direction.
2. Remove the cap and dipstick and wipe
it with a clean, lint-free cloth.
3. Add fluid that meets the Ford specifications. See
Capacities and
Specifications (page 344). Pour the
fluid directly into the automatic
transmission fluid cap and dipstick
hole.
4. Replace the cap and dipstick and remove it again to check the fluid level.
5. Make sure that the fluid level is between the MIN and the MAX marks.
6. Replace the automatic transmission fluid cap and dipstick. Turn it clockwise
until you feel a strong resistance.
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AB

Multi-Point inspection
Hazard warning system operation
Accessory drive belt(s)
Horn operation
Battery performance
Radiator, cooler, heater and air conditioninghoses
Engine air filter
Suspension components for leaks ordamage
Exhaust system
Steering and linkage
Exterior lamps operation
Tires (including spare) for wear and properpressure**
Fluid levels *
; fill if necessary
Windshield for cracks, chips or pits
For oil and fluid leaks
Washer spray and wiper operation
Half-shaft dust boots
* Brake, coolant recovery reservoir, automatic transmission and window washer
** If your vehicle is equipped with a temporary mobility kit, check the tire sealant expiration
Use By date on the canister. Replace as needed.
Be sure to ask your dealership service
advisor or technician about the multi-point
vehicle inspection. It is a comprehensive
way to perform a thorough inspection of
your vehicle. Your checklist gives you
immediate feedback on the overall
condition of your vehicle.
NORMAL SCHEDULED
MAINTENANCE
Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor™
Your vehicle is equipped with an Intelligent
Oil-Life Monitor that determines when you
should change the engine oil based on how
your vehicle is used. By using several
important factors in its calculations, the
monitor helps reduce the cost of owning
your vehicle and reduces environmental
waste at the same time. This means you do not have to remember
to change the oil on a mileage-based
schedule. Your vehicle lets you know when
an oil change is due by displaying a
message in the information display.
The following table provides examples of
vehicle use and its impact on oil change
intervals. It is a guideline only. Actual oil
change intervals depend on several factors
and generally decrease with severity of
use.
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Explorer (TUB), enUSA, First Printing Scheduled Maintenance

At every oil change interval as indicated by the information display
*
Inspect the tires, tire wear and measure the tread depth.
Inspect the wheels and related components for abnormal noise, wear, looseness or
drag.
* Do not exceed one year or 10000 miles (16000 kilometers) between service intervals.
** Reset the Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor after engine oil and filter changes. See Engine
Oil Check (page 281). Other maintenance items
1
Replace cabin air filter.
Every 20000 miles (32000
km)
Replace engine air filter.
Every 30000 miles (48000
km)
Change engine coolant.2
At 100000 miles (160000
km)
Replace spark plugs.
Every 100000 miles
(160000 km) Inspect accessory drive belt(s). 3
Change automatic transmission fluid.
Every 150000 miles
(240000 km)
Replace accessory drive belt(s). 4
1 Perform these maintenance items within 3000 miles (4800 kilometers) of the last
engine oil and filter change. Do not exceed the designated distance for the interval.
2 Initial replacement at six years or 100000 miles (160000 kilometers), then every three
years or 50000 miles (80000 kilometers).
3 After initial inspection, inspect every other oil change until replaced.
4 If not replaced within the last 100000 miles (160000 kilometers).
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Explorer (TUB), enUSA, First Printing Scheduled Maintenance

Extensive idling or low-speed driving for long distances, as in heavy commercial use
Change automatic transmission fluid.
Every 30000 miles (48000
km)
Replace spark plugs.
Every 60000 miles (96000
km)
* This is an optional feature. Operating in dusty or sandy conditions (such as unpaved or dusty roads)
Replace cabin air filter. *
Inspect frequently, service
as required
Replace engine air filter.
Inspect the wheels and related components for abnormal
noise, wear, looseness or drag.
Every 5000 miles (8000
km)
Rotate tires, inspect tires for wear and measure tread
depth.
Change engine oil and filter.**
Every 5000 miles (8000
km) or six months
Perform multi-point inspection.
Change automatic transmission fluid.
Every 30000 miles (48000
km)
* This is an optional feature.
** Reset your Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor after engine oil and filter changes. See Engine
Oil Check (page 281). Exclusive use of E85 (flex fuel vehicles only)
If ran exclusively on E85, fill the fuel tank full with regular
unleaded fuel.
Every oil change
Exceptions
There are several exceptions to the Normal
Schedule: Axle maintenance
: The Power Transfer
Unit (PTU) in your vehicle does not require
any normal scheduled maintenance. The
system is electronically monitored and
notifies the driver of required service by
displaying a message in the information
display. The PTU lube will be more likely
to require a fluid change if the vehicle has
experienced extended periods of
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