heating FORD EXPLORER 2021 Owners Manual

CRUISE CONTROL - VEHICLES
WITH: CRUISE CONTROL
See What Is Cruise Control (page 244).
INFORMATION DISPLAY
CONTROL See
Information Displays (page 112).
HEATED STEERING WHEEL
(IF
EQUIPPED)
The heated steering wheel button is on the
climate controls. Press the button to switch the
heated steering wheel on and
off. Note:
You can use the heated steering
wheel only when the engine is running.
Note: The system uses a sensor and is
designed to control the temperature of the
steering wheel and to prevent it from
overheating.
Note: In warm temperatures, the steering
wheel quickly reaches its maximum
temperature and the system reduces the
current to the heating element. This could
cause you to think that the system has
stopped working but it has not. This is
normal.
HORN 83
Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing Steering WheelE280796 E280795 E270945

Transmission
Action
Message
You switched the engine off and shift select lever is in any position other than park (P).
Shift to Park
Transmission is too cold. Wait for it to warm up before you drive.
Transmission
Warming UpPlease Wait
Displays when the brake pedal needs to be depressed.
Press Brake Pedal
The transmission is overheating and needs to cool. Stop in a safeplace as soon as it’ s possible.
Transmission Over
Temperature Stop Safely
Have the system checked as soon as possible.
Transmission
Service Required
The transmission is overheating and needs to cool. Stop in a safeplace as soon as it’ s possible.
Transmission Too
Hot Press Brake
The transmission has limited functionality. Have the systemchecked as soon as possible.
Transmission
Limited Function See Manual
A reminder to shift into park. In addition, this message is typicalafter reconnecting or recharging the battery until you cycle the
ignition to the on mode. See Changing the 12V Battery (page
336).
Transmission Not
in Park
Displays when there is a system fault and the park brake needs to
be depressed before exiting the vehicle. Have the system checked as soon as possible.
SHIFT SYS FAULT
Confirm Park
Brake Apply Before Exiting the Vehicle
Have the system checked as soon as possible.
SHIFT SYS FAULT
Service Required
Displays when there is a system fault while the vehicle is shiftingto park. Have the system checked as soon as possible.
SHIFT SYS FAULT
Vehicle is Shifting to Park
Displays when there is a system fault while the vehicle is shiftingto reverse. Have the system checked as soon as possible.
SHIFT SYS FAULT
Reverse Unavail- able ServiceRequired
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Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing Information Displays

4WD
Action
Message
The four wheel drive system has automatically disabled itself due to the system overheating.
4WD Temporarily
Disabled
The four wheel drive system is locking up the torque transfer clutch to help reduce clutch temperature.
4WD Temporarily
Locked
Displays when the system automatically disables to protect itself.
This may be caused by operating the vehicle with a mini spare tire installed, if the system detects dissimilar size tires, or if there is an
issue with another vehicle system preventing 4WD operation. The system resumes normal operation and clears this message after
you cycle the ignition on and off and drive a short distance with the road tire re-installed or after the other vehicle system issues are resolved.
4WD Off
Displays after the system cools and the four wheel drive system resumes normal function.
4WD Restored
The four wheel drive system is not operating properly and the
powertrain fault indicator illuminates. If the warning stays illumin- ated or continues to illuminate, contact an authorized dealer as soon as possible.
4WD Fault Service
Required
Displayed when the transfer case fluid requires service.
Change 4WD
Power Transfer Unit Lube
Displayed when the transfer case fluid has been changed and reset to new.
4WD Power
Transfer Unit Lube Set to New
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Note:
Do not place objects under the front
seats as this may interfere with the airflow
to the rear seats.
Note: Remove any snow, ice or leaves from
the air intake area at the base of the
windshield.
Note: To improve the time to reach a
comfortable temperature in hot weather,
drive with the windows open until you feel
cold air through the air vents.
Automatic Climate Control
Note: Adjusting the settings when your
vehicle interior is extremely hot or cold is
not necessary. Automatic mode is best
recommended to maintain set temperature.
Note: The system adjusts to heat or cool
the interior to the temperature you select
as quickly as possible.
Note: For the system to function efficiently,
the instrument panel and side air vents
should be fully open.
Note: If you select AUTO during cold
outside temperatures, the system directs
air flow to the windshield and side window
air vents. In addition, the blower motor may
run at a slower speed until the engine warms
up.
Note: If you select
AUTO during hot
temperatures and the inside of the vehicle
is hot, the system uses recirculated air to
maximize interior cooling. Blower motor
speed may also reduce until the air cools.
Quickly Heating the Interior
1. Press and release
AUTO.
2. Adjust the temperature function to the
setting you prefer.
Recommended Settings for
Heating
1. Press and release
AUTO. 2.
Adjust the temperature function to the
setting you prefer. Use
72°F (22°C) as
a starting point, then adjust the setting
as necessary.
Quickly Cooling the Interior
1. Press and release
MAX A/C.
Recommended Settings for
Cooling
1. Press and release
AUTO.
2. Adjust the temperature function to the
setting you prefer. Use
72°F (22°C) as
a starting point, then adjust the setting
as necessary.
Defogging the Side Windows in
Cold Weather
1. Press and release defrost or maximum
defrost.
2. Adjust the temperature control to the setting you prefer. Use
72°F (22°C) as
a starting point, then adjust the setting
as necessary.
REAR PASSENGER CLIMATE
CONTROLS Note:
Depending on your vehicle option
package, the controls may look different
from what you see here.
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Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing Climate ControlE289989

Gate Operator / Canadian
Programming
Canadian radio-frequency laws require
transmitter signals to
“time-out” (or quit)
after several seconds of transmission –
which may not be long enough for
HomeLink to pick up the signal during
programming. Similar to this Canadian law,
some U.S. gate operators are designed to
“time-out” in the same manner.
Note: If programming a garage door opener
or gate operator, it is advised to unplug the
device during the “cycling” process to
prevent possible overheating.
1. Press and hold the HomeLink button while you press and release, every two
seconds, your hand-held transmitter
until the HomeLink indicator light
changes from a slow to a rapidly
blinking light.
2. Release both the HomeLink and hand-held transmitter buttons.
3. Continue programing HomeLink. See In-Vehicle Programming
.
Erasing the Function Button Codes
Note: You cannot erase individual buttons. 1. Press and hold the outer two function
buttons simultaneously for
approximately 20 seconds until the
indicator lights above the buttons flash
rapidly.
2. When the indicator lights flash, release
the buttons. The codes for all buttons
are erased.
Reprogramming a Single Button
To program a device to a previously trained
button, follow these steps:
1. Press and hold the desired button. Do NOT release the button.
2. The indicator light will begin to flash after 20 seconds. Without releasing the
button, follow Step 1 in the
Programming section.
For questions or comments, contact
HomeLink at www.homelink.com,
www.youtube.com/HomeLinkGentex or
1-800-355-3515.
Programming to a Genie Intellicode 2
Garage Door Opener
Note: The Genie Intellicode 2 transmitter
must already be programmed to operate
with the garage door opener.
Note: To program HomeLink to the
transmitter you must first put the
transmitter into programming mode.
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Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing Garage Door Opener
(If Equipped)E142660

HYBRID VEHICLE OPERATION
This hybrid vehicle combines electric and
gasoline propulsion to provide
breakthrough performance and improved
efficiency. Familiarizing yourself with these
unique characteristics provides an optimal
driving experience from your vehicle.
Starting
When you start your vehicle, a
green READY indicator light
appears in the instrument cluster
letting you know that your vehicle is ready
for driving.
The engine may not start because your
vehicle has a silent key start feature. This
fuel saving feature allows your vehicle to
be ready to drive without requiring the gas
engine to be running. The indicator remains
on when your vehicle is on, whether the
engine is running or not, to indicate your
vehicle is capable of movement using the
electric motor, gas engine or both.
Typically, the engine does not start unless
the vehicle is cold, a climate control
change is requested or you press the
accelerator pedal.
Driving
The gas engine automatically starts and
stops to provide power when needed and
to save fuel when not needed. When
coasting at low speeds, coming to a stop,
or standing, the gas engine normally shuts
down and your vehicle operates in
electric-only mode.
Conditions that may cause the engine to
start up or remain running include:
• Considerable vehicle acceleration.
• Climbing a hill.
• Charge level of high voltage battery is
low. •
High or low outside temperatures in
order to provide system heating or
cooling.
• Engine not warm enough to provide
passenger requested cabin
temperature.
• Towing a trailer.
• Selectable drive modes: Certain
selectable drive modes may cause the
engine to run. See What Is Drive Mode
Control (page 278).
• Live in Drive: Use of the paddle shifters
while in drive (D) may cause the engine
to run. See Automatic Transmission
(page
201).
Stopping
The gas engine may shut off to conserve
fuel as you come to a stop. Restarting your
vehicle is not required. Simply step on the
accelerator when you are ready to drive.
Transmission Operation
The engine and electric motor together
propel the vehicle through the automatic
transmission. This is normal hybrid
operating and helps deliver fuel efficiency
and performance.
Battery
Your hybrid is equipped with a high voltage
battery. A cool battery maintains battery
life and provides the best possible
performance. The high voltage battery is
cooled by the vehicle's air conditioning
system. When the air conditioning system
is on, you may notice a slight increase in
air temperature coming from the climate
control vents while the battery is cooling.
You may also notice cool air flowing from
the vents when the air conditioning or
blower is off.
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HYBRID VEHICLE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Answer
Question
The high voltage battery is electrically isol-ated from the rest of the vehicle when the
key is off. When you switch the key on, high voltage contactors inside the battery are
closed to make the electricity available to the motor and generator and enable the
vehicle to drive. The clicks are the sound of these contactors as they close and open during start up and shut down.
What are the series of clicks from the cargo
area when I first turn the key in the ignition?
The vehicle's computer determines if an
engine start is required at key-on. Silent key starts the engine if it is necessary for cabin
heating, windshield defrost, or if the outside temperature is low.
Why does the engine sometimes start at
key-on?
There are several reasons the engine stayson for an extended amount of time when
you first start it. One common reason is to
make sure that the emissions components are warm enough to minimize tailpipe
emissions. As the climate gets cooler, this engine-on time is extended.
Why does it take a long time before the
engine shuts down?
In order to make sure that the climate
control system can begin heating the cabin
or defrosting the windshield as soon as you request it, the engine coolant temperature
has to be kept sufficiently hot. Keeping the
engine on is required to maintain the correct coolant temperature.
Why does my engine stay on when it is
extremely cold outside?
Your hybrid vehicle can use E15 fuel (15%ethanol, 85% gasoline), but you couldnotice slightly reduced fuel economy
because ethanol contains less energy per
gallon than gasoline. Your hybrid vehicle is not designed to use E85 (85% ethanol).
Can I put E15 or E85 in my vehicle, and how
will it affect my fuel economy?
The high voltage battery system is designedto last the life of the vehicle and requires no maintenance.
How long will my high voltage battery last?
Does it need maintenance?
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Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing Unique Driving Characteristics

GENERAL INFORMATION -
HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE
(HEV)
WARNING: This battery pack
should only be serviced by an authorized
electric vehicle technician. Improper
handling can result in personal injury or
death. WARNING:
Apply the parking
brake, shift into park (P), switch the
ignition off and remove the key before
you open the hood or have any service
or repair work completed. If you do not
switch the ignition off, the engine could
restart at any time. Failure to follow this
instruction could result in personal injury
or death. WARNING:
Do not touch the
electronic ignition system parts after you
have switched the ignition on or when
the engine is running. The system
operates at high voltage. Failure to
adhere to this warning could result in
serious personal injury or death. WARNING:
Keep your hands and
clothing clear of the engine cooling fan.
Your vehicle consists of various
high-voltage components and wiring. All
of the high-voltage power flows through
specific wiring assemblies labeled as such
or covered with a solid orange convolute,
or orange striped tape, or both. Do not
come in contact with these components. The high-voltage battery system is a
high-voltage, lithium-ion battery system.
The pack is located underneath the vehicle.
The high voltage battery system uses an
advanced active liquid heating and cooling
system to regulate high voltage battery
temperature and help maximize the life of
the high voltage battery.
Note:
The high-voltage battery does not
require regular service maintenance.
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Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing High Voltage Battery
(If Equipped)

Once through water, always try the brakes.
Wet brakes do not stop the vehicle as
effectively as dry brakes. Drying can be
improved by moving your vehicle slowly
while applying light pressure on the brake
pedal.
Be cautious of sudden changes in vehicle
speed or direction when you are driving in
mud. Even 4WD vehicles can lose traction
in slick mud. As when you are driving over
sand, apply the accelerator slowly and
avoid spinning your wheels. If the vehicle
does slide, steer in the direction of the slide
until you regain control of the vehicle.
After driving through mud, clean off residue
stuck to rotating driveshafts and tires.
Excess mud stuck on tires and rotating
driveshafts causes an imbalance that
could damage drive components.
“Tread Lightly
” is an educational program
designed to increase public awareness of
land-use regulations and responsibilities
in our nations wilderness areas. Ford Motor
Company joins the U.S. Forest Service and
the Bureau of Land Management in
encouraging you to help preserve our
national forest and other public and private
lands by “treading lightly. ”
Driving on Hilly or Sloping Terrain
Although natural obstacles could make it
necessary to travel diagonally up or down
a hill or steep incline, you should always
try to drive straight up or straight down. Note:
Avoid driving crosswise or turning on
steep slopes or hills. A danger lies in losing
traction, slipping sideways and possibly
rolling over. Whenever driving on a hill,
determine beforehand the route you will
use. Do not drive over the crest of a hill
without seeing what conditions are on the
other side. Do not drive in reverse over a hill
without the aid of an observer.
When climbing a steep slope or hill, start
in a lower gear rather than downshifting to
a lower gear from a higher gear once the
ascent has started. This reduces strain on
the engine and the possibility of stalling.
If you do stall out, do not try to turn around
because you might roll over. It is better to
back down to a safe location.
Apply just enough power to the wheels to
climb the hill. Too much power can cause
the tires to slip, spin or lose traction,
resulting in loss of vehicle control. Descend a hill in the same gear you would
use to climb up the hill to avoid excessive
brake application and brake overheating.
Do not descend in neutral; instead,
disengage overdrive or manually shift to a
lower gear. When descending a steep hill,
avoid sudden hard braking as you could
lose control. The front wheels have to be
turning in order to steer the vehicle.
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Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing Four-Wheel Drive (If Equipped)E143950 E143949

WARNING: Pay close attention to
changing road conditions such as
entering or leaving a highway, on roads
with intersections or roundabouts, roads
without visible lanes of travel, roads that
are winding, slippery, unpaved, or steep
slopes. WARNING:
The system does not
control speed in low traction conditions
or extremely steep slopes. The system
is designed to be an aid and does not
relieve you of your responsibility to drive
with due care and attention. Failure to
follow this instruction could result in
personal injury. WARNING:
The system is not a
crash warning or avoidance system. WARNING:
Do not use the system
when towing a trailer that has
aftermarket electronic trailer brake
controls. Failure to follow this instruction
could result in the loss of control of your
vehicle, personal injury or death. WARNING:
Do not use tire sizes
other than those recommended because
this can affect the normal operation of
the system. Failure to do so may result
in a loss of vehicle control, which could
result in serious injury. WARNING:
Do not use the system
with a snow plow blade installed. WARNING:
Do not use the system
in poor visibility, for example fog, heavy
rain, spray or snow. When Following a Vehicle WARNING:
When following a
vehicle that is braking, your vehicle does
not always decelerate quickly enough to
avoid a crash without driver intervention.
Apply the brakes when necessary. Failure
to follow this instruction could result in
personal injury or death.
Hilly Condition Usage
You should select a lower gear when the
system is active in situations such as
prolonged downhill driving on steep
grades, for example in mountainous areas.
The system needs additional engine
braking in these situations to reduce the
load on the vehicle ’s regular brake system
to prevent it from overheating.
Note: An audible alarm sounds and the
system shuts down if it applies brakes for
an extended period of time. This allows the
brakes to cool. The system functions
normally again after the brakes cool.
ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL
LIMITATIONS - VEHICLES
WITH: ADAPTIVE CRUISE
CONTROL WITH LANE
CENTERING
Adaptive cruise control limitations apply
to lane centering unless stated otherwise
or contradicted by a lane centering
limitation. See Adaptive Cruise Control
Limitations
(page 248).
The system may not correctly operate in
any of the following conditions:
• Your vehicle is not centered in the lane.
• The lane is too narrow or wide.
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Explorer (CTW), enUSA, Edition date: 202007, Second-Printing Adaptive Cruise Control
(If Equipped)