Scheduled Maintenance FORD EXPLORER 2023 Owners Manual

Audio System
General Information...................................419
Audio Unit......................................................419
Digital Radio.................................................420
Satellite Radio.............................................422
USB Port........................................................425
SYNC™ 3
General Information...................................427
Using Voice Recognition..........................429
Entertainment.............................................435
Climate...........................................................445
Phone..............................................................447
Navigation.....................................................449
Electric Vehicle Information...................454
Apps................................................................455
Settings..........................................................458
SYNC™ 3 Troubleshooting....................460
Accessories
Accessories...................................................473
Ford Protect
Ford Protect..................................................474
Scheduled Maintenance
General Maintenance Information.......476
Normal Scheduled Maintenance.........479
Special Operating Conditions ScheduledMaintenance............................................482
Customer Information
Rollover Warning........................................485
Radio Frequency Certification Labels.......................................................................485
Warranty Information...............................529
Appendices
Electromagnetic Compatibility..............531
End User License Agreement................534
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2023 Explorer (CTW) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 202209, First-PrintingTable of Contents

PERCHLORATE
Certain components in your vehicle suchas airbag modules, seatbelt pretensionersand remote control batteries may containperchlorate material. Special handlingmay apply for service or vehicle end of lifedisposal.
For more information visit:
Web Address
www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazard-ouswaste/perchlorate
FORD CREDIT
US Only
Ford Credit offers a full range of financingand lease plans to help you acquire yourvehicle. If you have financed or leased yourvehicle through Ford Credit, thank you foryour business.
For assistance call 1-800-727-7000, or formore information about Ford Credit andaccess to the online Account Manager tool,visit www.ford.com/finance.
REPLACEMENT PARTS
RECOMMENDATION
We have built your vehicle to the higheststandards using quality parts. Werecommend that you demand the use ofgenuine Ford and Motorcraft partswhenever your vehicle requires scheduledmaintenance or repair. You can clearlyidentify genuine Ford and Motorcraft partsby looking for the Ford, FoMoCo orMotorcraft branding on the parts or theirpackaging.
Scheduled Maintenance andMechanical Repairs
One of the best ways for you to make surethat your vehicle provides years of serviceis to have it maintained in line with ourrecommendations using parts thatconform to the specifications detailed inthis Owner’s Manual.
Genuine Ford and Motorcraft parts meetor exceed these specifications.
Collision Repairs
We hope that you never experience acollision, but accidents happen sometimes.
Genuine Ford replacement collision partsmeet our stringent requirements for fit,finish, structural integrity, corrosionprotection and dent resistance. Duringvehicle development we validate thatthese parts deliver the intended level ofprotection as a whole system. A great wayto know for sure you are getting this levelof protection is to use genuine Fordreplacement collision parts.
Warranty on Replacement Parts
Genuine Ford and Motorcraft replacementparts are the only replacement parts thatbenefit from a Ford Warranty.
The Ford Warranty may not cover damagecaused to your vehicle as a result of failednon-Ford parts.
For additional information, refer to theterms and conditions of the Ford Warranty.
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2023 Explorer (CTW) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 202209, First-PrintingIntroduction

WHAT IS THE CABIN AIR
FILTER
The cabin air filter improves the quality ofair in your vehicle by trapping dust, pollenand other particles.
REPLACING THE CABIN AIR
FILTER
Replace the filter at regular intervals. SeeScheduled Maintenance (page 476).
The cabin air filter is behind the glovecompartment.
To remove the lower glove compartmentand access the filter:
1.Open the glove compartment.
2.Press the tab on each side.
3.Fully lower the glove compartment.
4.Pull the glove compartment towardyou.
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Braking
Your hybrid is equipped with standardhydraulic braking and regenerative braking.Regenerative braking is performed by yourtransmission and it captures brake energyand stores it in the high voltage battery.
You may also notice during extendingdownhill driving that your engine continuesto run instead of shutting off. During thisengine braking, the engine stays on, but itis not using any fuel. You may also hear aslight whine or whistle when operating yourvehicle. This is the normal operation of theelectric motor in the hybrid system.
Driving to Optimize Fuel Economy
Note:Having your engine running is notalways an indication of inefficiency. In somecases, it is actually more efficient thandriving in electric mode.
Your fuel economy should improvethroughout your hybrid's break-in period.As with any vehicle, your driving habits andaccessory usage can significantly impactyour fuel economy. For best results, keepthese tips in mind:
•Keep the tires properly inflated andonly use the recommended size.
•Aggressive driving increases theamount of energy required to moveyour vehicle. In general, you canachieve better fuel economy with mildto moderate acceleration anddeceleration. Moderate braking isparticularly important since it allowsyou to maximize the energy capturedby the regenerative braking system.
Additional Tips:
•Do not carry extra loads.
•Be mindful of adding externalaccessories that may increaseaerodynamic drag.
•Observe posted speed limits.
•Perform all scheduled maintenance.
•There is no need to wait for your engineto warm up. The vehicle is ready todrive immediately after starting.
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•Incorrect fuel for climatic conditions.
•Incorrect engine oil viscosity forclimactic conditions.
Note:Some vehicles have a lifetime fuelfilter that is integrated with the fuel tank.Regular maintenance or replacement is notneeded.
Note:If these checks do not help youcorrect the concern, have your vehiclechecked as soon as possible.
Noise Emissions Warranty,Prohibited Tampering Acts andMaintenance
On January 1, 1978, Federal regulationbecame effective governing the noiseemission on trucks over 10,000 lb(4,536 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating(GVWR). The preceding statementsconcerning prohibited tampering acts andmaintenance, and the noise warrantyfound in the Warranty Guide, areapplicable to complete chassis cabs over10,000 lb (4,536 kg) GVWR.
CATALYTIC CONVERTER
WARNING: Do not park, idle ordrive your vehicle on dry grass or otherdry ground cover. The emission systemheats up the engine compartment andexhaust system, creating the risk of fire.
WARNING: The normal operatingtemperature of the exhaust system isvery high. Never work around or attemptto repair any part of the exhaust systemuntil it has cooled. Use special care whenworking around the catalytic converter.The catalytic converter heats up to a veryhigh temperature after only a shortperiod of engine operation and stays hotafter the engine is switched off.
WARNING: Exhaust leaks mayresult in entry of harmful and potentiallylethal fumes into the passengercompartment. If you smell exhaustfumes inside your vehicle, have yourvehicle inspected immediately. Do notdrive if you smell exhaust fumes.
Your vehicle has various emission controlcomponents and a catalytic converter thatenables it to comply with applicableexhaust emission standards.
To make sure that the catalytic converterand other emission control componentscontinue to work properly:
•Do not crank the engine for more than10 seconds at a time.
•Do not run the engine with a spark pluglead disconnected.
•Do not push-start or tow-start yourvehicle. Use booster cables. See JumpStarting the Vehicle (page 293).
•Use only the specified fuel listed.
•Do not switch the ignition off when yourvehicle is moving.
•Avoid running out of fuel.
•Have the items listed in scheduledmaintenance information performedaccording to the specified schedule.
Note:Resulting component damage maynot be covered by the vehicle Warranty.
The scheduled maintenance items listedin scheduled maintenance information areessential to the life and performance ofyour vehicle and to its emissions system.
If you use anything other than Ford,Motorcraft or Ford-authorized parts formaintenance replacements or for serviceof components affecting emission control,such non-Ford parts should be equivalentto genuine Ford Motor Company parts inperformance and durability.
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2023 Explorer (CTW) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 202209, First-PrintingEngine Emission Control

ESSENTIAL TOWING CHECKS
Follow these guidelines for safe towing:
•Do not tow a trailer until you drive yourvehicle at least 1,000 mi (1,600 km).
•Consult your local motor vehicle lawsfor towing a trailer.
•See the instructions included withtowing accessories for the properinstallation and adjustmentspecifications.
•Service your vehicle more frequently ifyou tow a trailer. See ScheduledMaintenance (page 476).
•If you use a rental trailer, follow theinstructions the rental agency givesyou.
You can find information on loadspecification terms found on the tire labeland Safety Compliance label as well asinstructions on calculating your vehicle'sload in the Load Carrying chapter. SeeLoad Limit (page 277).
Remember to account for the trailertongue weight as part of your vehicle loadwhen calculating the total vehicle weight.
Hitches
Do not use a hitch that either clamps ontothe bumper or attaches to the axle.
Distribute the trailer load so 10-15% of thetotal trailer weight is on the tongue.
A weight distributing hitch is not requiredfor your vehicle.
Safety Chains
Note:Do not attach safety chains to thebumper.
Always connect the safety chains to thehook retainers of your vehicle hitch.
To connect the trailer’s safety chains, crossthem under the trailer tongue and allowenough slack for turning tight corners. Donot allow the chains to drag on the ground.
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.
Safe control of towed vehicles requiresseparate functioning brake systems forvehicles and trailers weighing more than1,500 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.
Most towed vehicles require trailer lamps.Make sure all running lights, brake lights,direction indicators and hazard flashersare working.
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CHANGING THE ENGINE AIR
FILTER - 2.3L ECOBOOST™
WARNING: To reduce the risk ofvehicle damage and personal burninjuries, do not start your engine with theair cleaner removed and do not removeit while the engine is running.
When changing the engine air filter, do notallow debris or foreign material to enterthe air induction system. Enginecomponents are susceptible to damagenot covered by the vehicle Warranty.
Change the air filter element at the correctinterval. See Scheduled Maintenance(page 476).
Incorrect component use can causedamage not covered by the vehicleWarranty. See Motorcraft Parts (page382).
To replace the air filter element do thefollowing:1.Remove the clips that secure the airfilter housing cover.
2.Using a screwdriver, loosen the clampon air filter housing cover.
3.Gently pull the boot back away fromthe air filter housing cover.
4.Carefully lift the air filter housing coverfrom the air filter housing assembly.
5.Remove the air filter element from theair filter housing.
6.Wipe any dirt or debris from the air filterhousing and cover to make sure no dirtgets in the engine and that you have agood seal.
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7.Install a new air filter element. Becareful not to crimp the filter elementedges between the air filter housingand cover. This could cause filterdamage and allow unfiltered air toenter the engine if it is not properlyseated.
8.Install the air filter housing cover.
9.Engage the clips to secure the air filterhousing cover to the air filter housing.
10.Reconnect the boot to the air filterhousing cover and torque to 3.69 lb.ft(5 Nm).
CHANGING THE ENGINE AIR
FILTER - 3.0L
WARNING: To reduce the risk ofvehicle damage and personal burninjuries, do not start your engine with theair cleaner removed and do not removeit while the engine is running.
When changing the engine air filter, do notallow debris or foreign material to enterthe air induction system. Enginecomponents are susceptible to damagenot covered by the vehicle Warranty.
Change the air filter element at the correctinterval. See Scheduled Maintenance(page 476).
Incorrect component use can causedamage not covered by the vehicleWarranty. See Motorcraft Parts (page382).
To replace the air filter element do thefollowing:
1.Remove the clips that secure the airfilter housing cover.
2.Using a screwdriver, loosen two clampson either side of the air filter housingcover.
3.Gently pull the two boots back awayfrom the air filter housing cover.
4.Carefully lift the air filter housing cover.
5.Remove the air filter element from theair filter housing.
6.Wipe any dirt or debris from the air filterhousing and cover to make sure no dirtgets in the engine and that you have agood seal.
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2023 Explorer (CTW) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 202209, First-PrintingMaintenanceE294778

7.Install a new air filter element. Becareful not to crimp the filter elementedges between the air filter housingand cover. This could cause filterdamage and allow unfiltered air toenter the engine if it is not properlyseated.
8.Install the air filter housing cover.
9.Engage the clips to secure the air filterhousing cover to the air filter housing.
10.Reconnect the two boots on the airfilter housing cover and torque to3.69 lb.ft (5 Nm).
CHANGING THE ENGINE AIR
FILTER - 3.3L
WARNING: To reduce the risk ofvehicle damage and personal burninjuries, do not start your engine with theair cleaner removed and do not removeit while the engine is running.
Note: Failure to use the correct air filterelement may result in severe enginedamage. Resulting component damagemay not be covered by the vehicle Warranty.
Note: When servicing the air cleaner, donot allow foreign material to enter the airinduction system. The engine is susceptibleto damage from even small particles.
When changing the air filter element, useonly the air filter element listed.
Change the air filter element at the properintervals. See Scheduled Maintenance(page 476).
1.Release the clamps that secure the airfilter cover to the housing.
2.Using a screwdriver, loosen the clampon the air filter housing cover.
3.Gently pull the boot back away fromthe air filter housing cover.
4.Carefully lift the air filter housing cover.
5.Remove the air filter element from theair filter housing.
6.Wipe any dirt or debris from the air filterhousing and cover to make sure no dirtgets in the engine and that you have agood seal.
7.Install a new air filter element. Becareful not to crimp the filter elementedges between the air filter housingand cover. This could cause filterdamage and allow unfiltered air toenter the engine if it is not properlyseated.
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2023 Explorer (CTW) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 202209, First-PrintingMaintenanceE295061x2

8.Install the air filter housing cover.
9.Engage the clips to secure the air filterhousing cover to the air filter housing.
10.Reconnect the boot to the air filterhousing cover and torque to 3.69 lb.ft(5 Nm).
ENGINE COOLANT CHECK
WARNING: Do not remove thecoolant reservoir cap when the engine ison or the cooling system is hot. Wait 10minutes for the cooling system to cooldown. Cover the coolant reservoir capwith a thick cloth to prevent thepossibility of scalding and slowly removethe cap. Failure to follow this instructioncould result in personal injury.
WARNING: Do not put coolant inthe windshield washer reservoir. Ifsprayed on the windshield, coolant couldmake it difficult to see through thewindshield.
WARNING: To reduce the risk ofpersonal injury, make sure the engine iscool before unscrewing the coolantpressure relief cap. The cooling systemis under pressure. Steam and hot liquidcan come out forcefully when you loosenthe cap slightly.
When the engine is cold, check theconcentration and level of the coolant atthe intervals listed in the scheduledmaintenance information. See ScheduledMaintenance (page 476).
Note:Make sure that the coolant level isbetween the MIN and the MAX marks onthe coolant reservoir.
Note: Coolant expands when it is hot. Thelevel may extend beyond the MAX mark.
Maintain coolant concentration within48% to 50%, which equates to a freezepoint between -29°F (-34°C) and -35°F(-37°C). Coolant concentration should bechecked using a refractometer. We do notrecommend the use of hydrometers orcoolant test strips for measuring coolantconcentration.
Adding Coolant
WARNING: Do not add coolantfurther than the MAX mark.
WARNING: Do not add coolantwhen the vehicle is on or the coolingsystem is hot. Failure to follow thisinstruction could result in personal injury.
WARNING: Do not remove thecoolant reservoir cap when the engine ison or the cooling system is hot. Wait 10minutes for the cooling system to cooldown. Cover the coolant reservoir capwith a thick cloth to prevent thepossibility of scalding and slowly removethe cap. Failure to follow this instructioncould result in personal injury.
WARNING: Do not put coolant inthe windshield washer reservoir. Ifsprayed on the windshield, coolant couldmake it difficult to see through thewindshield.
Note: Do not use stop leak pellets, coolingsystem sealants, or non-specified additivesas they can cause damage to the enginecooling or heating systems. Resultingcomponent damage may not be covered bythe vehicle Warranty.
Note:Automotive fluids are notinterchangeable.
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2023 Explorer (CTW) Canada/United States of America, enUSA, Edition date: 202209, First-PrintingMaintenance