automatic transmission FORD F150 2012 12.G Owners Manual

GAUGES
Standard measure base cluster with automatic transmission
shown; metric similar and uplevel clusters similar.
1.Engine oil pressure gauge:Indicates engine oil pressure. The
needle should stay in the normal operating range (between L and H). If
the needle falls below the normal range, stop the vehicle, turn off the
engine and check the engine oil level. Add oil if needed. If the oil level is
correct, have your vehicle checked at your authorized dealer.
2.Engine coolant temperature gauge:Indicates engine coolant
temperature. At normal operating temperature, the needle will be in the
normal range (between H and C).If it enters the red section, the
engine is overheating. Stop the vehicle as soon as safely possible,
switch off the engine and let the engine cool.
WARNING:Never remove the coolant reservoir cap while the
engine is running or hot.
65
1234
Instrument Cluster
18
2012 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

Information
In this mode, you can view different vehicle system information and
perform a system check.
When “Press OK for info” is displayed, pressing OK will give you
information on the currently selected/displayed options. Information is
only available when traveling less than 3 mph (5 km/h).
MyKey
Admin Keys (Number of admin keys)
MyKeys (Number of MyKeys programmed)
MyKey Miles (km) (Distance traveled using a programmed MyKey)
System Check*
Oil Life
Doors
Brakes
Trailer Brake
Ctrl.Gain and Output (when trailer is connected)
No trailer (when no trailer is connected)
Park Aid Check Rear Park Aid
Fuel Level (distance to empty)
* If equipped—your vehicle may be equipped with some or all of these
options.
Some items will only display during a system check if a problem has
been detected. If an issue exists on one of the monitored systems, the
message center will display the number of warnings that need immediate
attention in red and the number of informational warnings will be listed
in amber. Use the up/down arrow buttons to scroll through the list; press
the right arrow button to display specific information on the highlighted
warning.
Transmission indicator display
The transmission gear indicator displays in the right side of the message
center when using the SelectShift Automatic™ transmission feature. This
display will not be shown in all screen modes. For example: when
programming certain vehicle features or in certain information menus.
Instrument Cluster
38
2012 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

VOICE COMMANDS IN CLIMATE MODE
Please refer to theVoice commands in climate modesection of the
Navigation supplementfor more information on using voice commands
with the climate control system.
Operating tips
•To reduce fog build-up on the windshield during humid weather,
select
(defrost). Temperature and/or fan speed can also be
increased to improve clearing.
•To reduce humidity build-up inside the vehicle: do not drive with the
system off or with
(recirculated air) engaged.
•Do not put objects under the front seats that will interfere with the
airflow to the back seats.
•Remove any snow, ice or leaves from the air intake area at the base of
the windshield.
•To improve the A/C cool down, drive with the windows slightly open
for not more than 2-3 minutes after start up to “air out” the vehicle.
•For maximum cooling performance when using Max A/C or
(recirculated air), all windows and doors should remain closed.
•A small amount of air may be felt from the floor vent regardless of the
air distribution setting that is selected.
If you are driving during extreme high ambient temperatures and idling
for extended periods of time in gear, it is recommended to run the A/C
in the MAX A/C mode, adjust the blower fan speed to the lowest setting
and put the vehicle’s transmission in P (Park) to continue to receive cool
air from your A/C system.
For maximum cooling performance (MAX A/C):
1. Press MAX A/C. The system will default to single zone operation and
set the temperature to 60°F (16°C). The blower will automatically go to
maximum.
2. A/C,
(recirculated air) and(panel) will be selected.
3. Fan speed can be adjusted as desired.
To aid in side window defogging/demisting in cold weather:
1. Select
.
2. Select A/C.
3. Adjust the temperature control to maintain comfort.
Climate Controls
79
2012 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

A memory seat position may be programmed at any time.
To program the memory feature to a remote entry transmitter, refer to
Remote entry systemin theLocks and Securitychapter.
A programmed memory position can be recalled:
•in any gearshift position if the ignition isnoton.
•only in P (Park) or N (Neutral) if the ignition is on.
The memory positions are also recalled when you press your remote
entry transmitter
(unlock) control (if the transmitter is programmed
to a memory position) or, when you enter a valid personal entry code
that is programmed to a memory position. The mirrors will move to the
programmed position and the seat will move to the easy entry position.
The seat will move to the final position when the key is in the ignition (if
easy entry feature is enabled).
Easy-access/easy-out feature (if equipped)
The easy entry feature can be turned off or on through the vehicle
message center. Refer toMessage centerin theInstrument Cluster
chapter.
The easy entry feature automatically moves the driver’s seat 2 inches
(5 cm) forward when:
•the transmission is in P (Park)
•the key is inserted into the ignition cylinder
(If the seat is located less than 2 inches [5 cm] from the front of the seat
track, the seat will travel up to
14inch (6 mm) to the front of the seat
track).
The easy out feature automatically moves the driver’s seat 2 inches
(5 cm) backward when:
•the transmission is in P (Park)
•the key is removed from the ignition cylinder
(If the seat is located less than 2 inches (5 cm) from the rear of the seat
track, the seat will travel up to
14inch (6 mm) to the rear of the seat
track).
Seating and Safety Restraints
169
2012 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

•When the vehicle is turned off, the TBC output is disabled and the
display is shut down; turning the ignition from off to on awakens the
TBC module.
•The TBC is only a factory- or dealer-installed item; Ford is not
responsible for warranty or performance of the TBC due to misuse or
customer installation.
•Do not attempt removal of the TBC without consulting the
Workshop Manual; damage to the unit may result.
Trailer lamps
Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure all running
lights, brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights are working. Contact
your authorized dealer or trailer rental agency for proper instructions
and equipment for hooking-up trailer lamps.
Using a step bumper (if equipped)
The rear bumper is equipped with an integral hitch and only requires a
ball with a one inch (25.4 mm) shank diameter. The bumper has a
5,000 lb (2,270 kg) trailer weight and 500 lb (227 kg) tongue weight
capacity.
If it is necessary to relocate the trailer hitch ball position, a
frame-mounted trailer hitch must be installed.
Driving while you tow
When towing a trailer:
•Do not drive faster than 70 mph (113 km/h) during the first 500 miles
(800 km) of trailer towing and don’t make full-throttle starts.
•Turn off the speed control. The speed control may shut off
automatically when you are towing on long, steep grades.
•Activate the tow/haul feature to eliminate excessive transmission
shifting and assist in transmission cooling. For additional information,
refer toAutomatic transmission operationin theDrivingchapter.
•Allow more distance for stopping with a trailer attached; anticipate
stops and brake gradually.
If your vehicle is equipped with AdvanceTracwith RSC, you may
experience AdvanceTracwith RSC activations during typical cornering
maneuvers with a heavily loaded trailer; this is normal. Cornering at a
slower speed while towing will reduce the tendency of the AdvanceTrac
stability enhancement system to activate.
Tires, Wheels and Loading
274
2012 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

Trailer towing tips
•Practice turning, stopping and backing-up before starting on a trip to
get the feel of the vehicle-trailer combination. When turning, make
wider turns so the trailer wheels will clear curbs and other obstacles.
•To aid in engine/transmission cooling and A/C efficiency during hot
weather while stopped in traffic, place the gearshift lever in P (Park).
•After you have traveled 50 miles (80 km), thoroughly check your
hitch, electrical connections and trailer wheel lug nuts.
•If you are driving down a long or steep hill, shift to a lower gear. Do
not apply the brakes continuously, as they may overheat and become
less effective. Also, see the information on tow/haul mode operation
underAutomatic transmission operationin theDrivingchapter.
•If you will be towing a trailer frequently in hot weather, hilly
conditions, at GCWR, or any combination of these factors, consider
refilling your rear axle with synthetic gear lube if not already so
equipped. Refer to theMaintenance and Specificationschapter for
the lubricant specification. Remember that regardless of the rear axle
lube used, do not tow a trailer for the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km) of a
new vehicle, and that the first 500 miles (800 km) of towing be done
at no faster than 70 mph (113 km/h) with no full throttle starts.
•Vehicles with trailers should not be parked on a grade. If you must
park on a grade, place wheel chocks under the trailer’s wheels.
Launching or retrieving a boat
Disconnect the wiring to the trailer before backing the trailer
into the water. Reconnect the wiring to the trailer after the
trailer is removed from the water.
When backing down a ramp during boat launching or retrieval:
•Do not allow the static water level to rise above the bottom edge of
the rear bumper.
•Do not allow waves to break higher than 6 in (15 cm) above the
bottom edge of the rear bumper.
Exceeding these limits may allow water to enter vehicle components:
•Causing internal damage to the components.
•Affecting driveability, emissions and reliability.
Replace the rear axle lubricant any time the axle has been submerged in
water. Rear axle lubricant quantities are not to be checked or changed
unless a leak is suspected or repair required.
Tires, Wheels and Loading
275
2012 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

STARTING
Positions of the ignition
1. Off — locks the automatic
transmission gearshift lever and
allows key removal.Note:In order to
switch off the engine while the
vehicle is in motion, shift to neutral
and use the brakes to bring the
vehicle to a safe stop. After the
vehicle has stopped, turn the engine
off and shift into park. Then, turn the
key to the accessory or off position.
Note:The ignition key cannot be
removed from the ignition unless the gearshift lever is securely latched
in P (Park).
2. Accessory — allows the electrical accessories such as the radio to
operate while the engine is not running.
3. On — all electrical circuits operational. Warning lights illuminated. Key
position when driving.
4. Start — cranks the engine. Release the key as soon as the engine starts.
Note:Do not store the key in the ignition after the vehicle is turned off
and you have left the vehicle. This could cause a drain on the battery.
Preparing to start your vehicle
Engine starting is controlled by the powertrain control system.
This system meets all Canadian interference-causing equipment standard
requirements regulating the impulse electrical field strength of radio noise.
When starting a fuel-injected engine, don’t press the accelerator before
or during starting. Only use the accelerator when you have difficulty
starting the engine. For more information on starting the vehicle, refer to
Starting the enginein this chapter.
WARNING:Extended idling at high engine speeds can produce
very high temperatures in the engine and exhaust system,
creating the risk of fire or other damage.
Driving
278
2012 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

effectiveness of the ABS and will increase your vehicle’s stopping
distance. The ABS will be activated immediately, allowing you to retain
steering control during hard braking and on slippery surfaces. However,
the ABS does not decrease stopping distance.
ABS warning lamp
The ABS lamp in the instrument
cluster momentarily illuminates
when the ignition is turned on. If
the light does not illuminate during
start up, remains on or flashes, the
ABS may be disabled and may need to be serviced.
Even when the ABS is disabled,
normal braking is still effective. If
your BRAKE warning lamp
illuminates with the parking brake
released, have your brake system
serviced immediately.
Parking brake
To set the parking brake (1), press
the parking brake pedal down until
the pedal stops.
The BRAKE warning lamp will
illuminate and will remain
illuminated until the parking brake
is released.
To release, pull the lever (2).
WARNING:Always set the parking brake fully and make sure
that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park) (automatic
transmission) or in 1 (First) (manual transmission).
ABS
P!
BRAKE
P!
BRAKE
Driving
285
2012 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OPERATION
Understanding the shift positions of the 6-speed automatic
transmission
This vehicle is equipped with an adaptive transmission shift strategy. The
adaptive transmission shift strategy offers the optimal transmission
operation and shift quality. When the engine is turned off, the shift data
which includes the adaptive information will be stored automatically in
the powertrain control module (PCM). If the battery is disconnected for
any reason, the stored information from the last time the key was turned
to off will be read. This way, no information will be lost with any battery
removal or battery disconnect.
P (Park)
This position locks the transmission
and prevents the rear wheels from
turning.
To put your vehicle in gear:
•Press the brake pedal
•Start the engine
•Move the gearshift lever into the
desired gear. If your vehicle is
equipped with a floor-shift transmission, press the gearshift lever
release button (on the front of the lever) while shifting into the
desired gear.
To put your vehicle in P (Park):
•Come to a complete stop
•Move the gearshift lever and securely latch it in P (Park)
WARNING:Always set the parking brake fully and make sure
the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the off
position and remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.
R (Reverse)
With the gearshift lever in R (Reverse), the vehicle will move backward.
Always come to a complete stop before shifting into and out of R
(Reverse).
N (Neutral)
With the gearshift lever in N (Neutral), the vehicle can be started and is
free to roll. Hold the brake pedal down while in this position.
T/H
PR
N
D
M
2
1
+
-
Driving
299
2012 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)

To deactivate the tow/haul feature and return to normal driving mode,
press the button on the end of the gearshift lever. The TOW HAUL light
will no longer be illuminated. Tow/haul will also deactivate when the
vehicle is powered down.
WARNING:Do not use the tow/haul feature when driving in icy
or slippery conditions as the increased engine braking can cause
the rear wheels to slide and the vehicle to swing around with the
possible loss of vehicle control.
3 (Third) (column-shift only) (For vehicles without SST)
Transmission operates in third gear only.
Used for improved traction on slippery roads.
2 (Second)
Transmission operates in 2nd gear only.
Use 2 (Second) to start-up on slippery roads.
1 (First)
•Transmission operates in 1st gear only.
•Provides maximum engine braking.
•Allows upshifts by moving gearshift lever.
•Will not downshift into 1 (First) at high speeds; allows for 1 (First)
when vehicle reaches slower speeds.
Forced downshifts
•Allowed in D (Drive) only.
•Press the accelerator to the floor.
•Allows transmission to select an appropriate gear.
Understanding your SelectShift Automatic™ transmission (SST)
gearshift lever (if equipped)
This vehicle may be equipped with a SelectShift Automatic™
transmission (SST) gearshift lever. The SST is an automatic transmission
with the ability for the driver to change gears up or down (without a
clutch) as desired. The SST feature has two modes: PRS and M mode.
Driving
301
2012 F-150(f12)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)