FORD F150 2023 Owners Manual

6.Always keep available groundclearance in mind and pick a route thatminimizes the risk of catching theunderside of the vehicle on an obstacle.
7.When negotiating low speed obstacles,applying light brake pressure inconjunction with the throttle will helpprevent the vehicle from jerking andwill allow you to negotiate the obstaclein a more controlled manner. Using 4Lwill also help with this.
8.Off-roading requires a high degree ofconcentration. Even if your local lawdoes not prohibit alcohol use whiledriving off-road, Ford stronglyrecommends against drinking if youplan to off-road.
Crossing Obstacles
•Review the path ahead beforeattempting to cross any obstacle. It isbest if the obstacle is reviewed fromoutside the vehicle so that there is agood understanding of terrain conditionboth in front of and behind theobstacle.
•Approach obstacles slowly.
•If a large obstacle such as a rockcannot be avoided, choose a path thatplaces the rock directly under the tirerather than the undercarriage of thevehicle. This will help prevent damageto the vehicle.
•Ditches and washouts should becrossed at a 45° angle, allowing eachwheel to independently cross theobstacle.
Hill Climbing
WARNING: Extreme care shouldbe used when steering the vehicle inreverse down a slope so as not to causethe vehicle to swerve out of control.
•Always attempt to climb a steep hillalong the fall line of the slope and notdiagonally.
•If the vehicle is unable to make it upthe hill, DO NOT attempt to turn backdown the slope. Place the vehicle inlow range and slowly back down inreverse.
•When descending a steep slope, selectlow gear and engage hill descentcontrol. Use the throttle and brakepedals to control your descent speed.
Note:Hill descent control is functional inreverse and should be used in this situation.
BASIC OFF-ROAD DRIVINGTECHNIQUES - RAPTOR
Grip the steering wheel with your thumbson the outside of the rim. This reduces therisk of injury due to abrupt steering wheelmotions that occur when negotiating roughterrain.
If you are driving in a dusty area, be sure toleave ample distance between your vehicleand any other vehicles to allow foradequate vision.
DRIVING OFF-ROAD - RAPTOR
Driving In Snow and Ice
WARNING: Do not becomeoverconfident in the ability of four-wheeldrive vehicles. Although a four-wheeldrive vehicle may accelerate better thana two-wheel drive vehicle in low tractionsituations, it won't stop any faster thantwo-wheel drive vehicles. Always driveat a safe speed.
Make sure you allow sufficient distancebetween your vehicle and other vehiclesfor stopping.
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Driving In Sand
When driving over sand, try to keep all fourwheels on the most solid area of the trail.
Driving In Mud
Be cautious of sudden changes in vehiclespeed or direction when you are driving inmud.
After driving through mud, clean yourvehicle. Excess mud stuck on the wheelsand tires and rotating components cancause an imbalance and result in damage.
Note:The vehicle brakes are less effectivewhen wet or muddy.
Driving Over Rocks and Gravel
Never attempt to straddle a rock that islarge enough to strike your axles orundercarriage.
Leave a generous gap between yourvehicle and other vehicles to minimize therisk of damage. Avoid dust clouds as theyreduce visibility.
Climbing A Hill
WARNING: Extreme care shouldbe used when steering the vehicle inreverse down a slope so as not to causethe vehicle to swerve out of control.
Do not drive over the crest of a hill withoutseeing what conditions are on the otherside. Do not drive in reverse over a hillwithout the aid of an observer.
Note:Avoid turning on steep slopes or hills.A danger lies in losing traction, slippingsideways and possible vehicle roll over.
Note:Too much acceleration can causethe tires to slip, spin or lose traction,resulting in loss of vehicle control.
Driving Through Water
WARNING: Do not attempt tocross a deep, fast flowing body of water.Failure to follow this instruction couldresult in the loss of control of yourvehicle, personal injury or death.
The key to a safe crossing is the waterdepth, current and bottom of the water'scondition. On soft bottoms, the vehiclesinks in, effectively increasing the waterlevel on the vehicle. Make sure to considerthis when determining the depth of water.
Determine the depth and speed of thecurrent before attempting a water crossing.
Be aware that obstacles and debris couldbe beneath the water’s surface.
Note:Cross flowing water at an angleheading slightly upstream.
Note:Tread lightly and avoid damage tothe environment.
Water can cause permanent damage thatmay not be covered by your vehiclewarranty. See Driving Through WaterLimitations (page 470).
Note:Failure to follow the recommendedspeeds can result in vehicle damage.
Muddy waters can reduce the coolingsystem effectiveness by depositing debrisinto the radiator.
High currents even in shallow water canwash the dirt out from around your tires orpush your vehicle across slippery rocks orsurfaces.
Do not cross any body of water that is fastflowing and rising.
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Vehicles used to traverse water should beperiodically inspected for signs of wateringestion in all of the vehicle's fluids. Ifwater is found inside your vehicle fluids,service your vehicle or see an authorizeddealer.
Avoid Getting High-Centered
Always keep available ground clearancein mind and pick a route that minimizes therisk of catching the underside of the vehicleon an obstacle and getting high-centered.
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle
WARNING: Do not spin the wheelsat over 34 mph (55 km/h). The tires mayfail and injure a passenger or bystander.
Recovery hooks are mounted to thevehicle's structure and are used to pull outthe vehicle from a surface or location whenstuck. Recover your vehicle using varioustowing apparatus attached to yourrecovery hook such as winch, open hook,or strap.
Note:Do not use recovery hooks torecreationally tow your vehicle. SeeRecreationally Towing Your Vehicle (page485).
Note: Do not rock your vehicle if the engineis not at normal operating temperature asdamage to the transmission could occur.
Note:Do not rock your vehicle for morethan a minute as damage to thetransmission and tires could occur or theengine could overheat.
If you are unable to free your vehicle callroadside assistance. See RoadsideAssistance (page 478).
Crossing A Ravine, Gully, Ditch,Washout Or Rut
Review the path ahead before attemptingto cross any obstacle.
Driving Over Logs
Review the path ahead before attemptingto cross any obstacle.
DRIVING YOUR VEHICLE AT HIGHSPEEDS - RAPTOR
If you plan on using your vehicle for severe,high speed off-road use, we recommendthe following:
•Equipping your vehicle with the safetyequipment appropriate for off-roadrecovery.
•Using personal safety equipment,including a certified helmet andapproved neck restraint device.
•Doing a low speed reconnaissance runin unfamiliar areas to become awareof any obstacles that you couldencounter.
Your vehicle can incur damage if drivenbeyond its capabilities. Skid plates, shockguards and running boards are designedto help limit damage to vital componentsand exterior finishes, but cannot preventall damage if driven in extreme off-roadconditions. Damage to skid plates, shockguards, running boards and exteriorfinishes as well as bent, cracked or brokenbody, frame and chassis components maynot be covered by warranty.
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DRIVING THROUGH WATERLIMITATIONS - RAPTOR
Maximum WadingDepthModel
32 in (810 mm)All.
When you are driving though water do notexceed 4 mph (7 km/h).
WATER WADING - EXCLUDING:RAPTOR
WARNING: Do not attempt tocross a deep, fast flowing body of water.Failure to follow this instruction couldresult in the loss of control of yourvehicle, personal injury or death.
As the water depth increases, you mustreduce your vehicle speed to avoidpotential vehicle damage.
•Always determine the depth beforeattempting a water crossing. Neverdrive through water that is higher thanthe bottom of the wheel hubs.
•Slowly proceed and avoid splashingwater any more than is necessary.
•Be aware that obstacles and debrismay be beneath the water’s surface.
•Keep the doors fully closed during thewater crossing.
•After driving through water and as soonas it is safe to do so check the brakes,horn, lights, and steering wheel toconfirm those systems are functioningproperly.
Note:Engine damage can occur if waterenters the air filter.
WATER WADING - RAPTOR
WARNING: Do not attempt tocross a deep, fast flowing body of water.Failure to follow this instruction couldresult in the loss of control of yourvehicle, personal injury or death.
•Always determine the depth beforeattempting a water crossing.
•Slowly proceed and avoid splashingwater any more than is necessary.
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•Be aware that obstacles and debrismay be beneath the water’s surface.
•Keep the doors fully closed during thewater crossing.
•After driving through water and as soonas it is safe to do so check the brakes,horn, lights, and steering wheel toconfirm those systems are functioningproperly.
Note:Engine damage can occur if waterenters the air filter.
OFF-ROAD DRIVING AIDS -RAPTOR
Selecting an Off-Road Drive Mode
Using the appropriate drive mode increasesyour vehicle's control. See Drive ModeControl (page 362).
Using Four-Wheel Drive
Your vehicle has a four-wheel drive systemthat offers various modes to help youoptimize traction on any off-road surface.See Four-Wheel Drive (page 274).
Using the Cameras Off-Road
Use the 360 degree camera to enhanceyour off-road experience. See 360 DegreeCamera (page 332).
Using the Rear Differential Lock
When engaged, the rear differential lockprovides additional traction to your vehicleby forcing the two rear wheels to turn atthe same speed.
Note:Rear differential lock is only availablewhen the vehicle is in 4H or 4L. SeeElectronic Locking Differential (page 284).
Using Trail Control
Trail Control provides you the ability tomaneuver the vehicle without using thethrottle and brake pedals.
The system controls acceleration andbraking in difficult off-road environments,which allows you to focus on steering. SeeTrail Control (page 312).
Trail Control Performance:
•Manages wheel slip to maximizetraction.
•Provides braking to maximize tractionin descents.
Using Trail One Pedal Drive (If
Equipped)
Trail one pedal drive allows you toaccelerate and brake using only theaccelerator pedal.
Use this when driving over large obstacles,such as rocks or logs, to help maintain aconstant vehicle speed.
In 4H, the system offers lift pedal brakingand auto hill hold functionality. See WhatIs Trail One Pedal Drive (page 313).
Note:Trail one pedal drive is only availablewhen the vehicle is in 4H or 4L.
AFTER DRIVING YOUR VEHICLEOFF-ROAD - EXCLUDING: RAPTOR
WARNING: After off-road use,before returning to the road, check thewheels and tires for damage. Off-roaduse may cause damage to your wheelsand tires that can lead to tire failure, lossof vehicle control, serious injury or death.
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WARNING: Always re-inflate tiresto recommended tire pressures beforethe vehicle is operated on-road. Therecommended pressure is located on thetire label or safety certification label,located on the B-pillar, inside the driver'sdoor.
Driving off-road places more stress on yourvehicle than most on-road driving. Afterdriving off-road check for damage to yourvehicle and, if necessary, have your vehiclefixed as soon as possible.
Inspect the underbody of your vehicle bychecking tires, body structure, steering,suspension, and exhaust system fordamage.
Check the radiator for mud and debris andclean as needed.
Remove accumulations of plants or brush.These things could be a fire hazard or hidedamage to the fuel lines, brake hoses, andpropeller shafts.
After extended operation in mud, sand,water, or similar dirty conditions, inspectthe underbody and clean your vehicle assoon as possible.
If you experience unusual vibration afterdriving in mud, slush or similar conditions,check the wheels for impacted material.Impacted material can cause vibrationswhile driving and wheel imbalance.Remove the material to resolve theproblem.
AFTER DRIVING YOUR VEHICLEOFF-ROAD - RAPTOR
WARNING: After off-road use,before returning to the road, check thewheels and tires for damage. Off-roaduse may cause damage to your wheelsand tires that can lead to tire failure, lossof vehicle control, serious injury or death.
WARNING: Always re-inflate tiresto recommended tire pressures beforethe vehicle is operated on-road. Therecommended pressure is located on thetire label or safety certification label,located on the B-pillar, inside the driver'sdoor.
Driving off-road places more stress on yourvehicle than most on-road driving. Afterdriving off-road, check for damage and, ifnecessary, have your vehicle repaired byan authorized dealer.
Inspect the underbody of your vehicle bychecking tires, body structure, steering,suspension, and exhaust system fordamage.
Check the radiator for mud and debris andclean as needed.
Remove accumulations of plants or brush.These things could be a fire hazard or hidedamage to the fuel lines, brake hoses, andpropeller shafts.
After operation in mud, sand, water, orsimilar dirty conditions, inspect theunderbody and clean your vehicle.
COLD WEATHER
PRECAUTIONS
The functional operation of somecomponents and systems can be affectedat temperatures below approximately-13°F (-25°C).
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DRIVING ON SNOW AND ICE
WARNING: If you are driving inslippery conditions that require tirechains or cables, then it is critical thatyou drive cautiously. Keep speeds down,allow for longer stopping distances andavoid aggressive steering to reduce thechances of a loss of vehicle controlwhich can lead to serious injury or death.If the rear end of your vehicle slides whilecornering, steer in the direction of theslide until you regain control of yourvehicle.
On ice and snow, you should drive moreslowly than usual. Your vehicle has a fourwheel anti-lock brake system, do not pumpthe brake pedal. See Anti-Lock BrakingSystem Limitations (page 291).
BREAKING-IN
Your vehicle requires a break-in period. Forthe first 1,000 mi (1,600 km), avoid drivingat high speeds, heavy braking, aggressiveshifting or using your vehicle to tow. Duringthis time, your vehicle may exhibit someunusual driving characteristics.
DRIVING ECONOMICALLY
The following helps to improve fuelconsumption:
•Drive smoothly, accelerate gently andanticipate the road ahead to avoidheavy braking.
•Regularly check your tire pressures andmake sure that they are inflated to thecorrect pressure.
•Follow the recommended maintenanceschedule and carry out therecommended checks.
•Plan your journey and check the trafficbefore you set off. It is more efficientto combine errands into a single tripwhenever possible.
•Avoid idling the engine in cold weatheror for extended periods. Start theengine only when you are ready to setoff.
•Do not carry unnecessary weight in yourvehicle as extra weight wastes fuel.
•Do not add unnecessary accessoriesto the exterior of your vehicle, forexample running boards. If you use aroof rack, remember to fold it down orremove it when not in use.
•Do not shift into neutral when you arebraking or when your vehicle is slowingdown.
•Shut all windows when driving at highspeeds.
•Switch off all electric systems whennot in use, for example air conditioning.Make sure that you unplug anyaccessories from the auxiliary powerpoints when not in use.
FLOOR MATS
WARNING: Use a floor matdesigned to fit the footwell of yourvehicle that does not obstruct the pedalarea. Failure to follow this instructioncould result in the loss of control of yourvehicle, personal injury or death.
WARNING: Pedals that cannotmove freely can cause loss of vehiclecontrol and increase the risk of seriouspersonal injury.
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WARNING: Secure the floor matto both retention devices so that itcannot slip out of position and interferewith the pedals. Failure to follow thisinstruction could result in the loss ofcontrol of your vehicle, personal injury ordeath.
WARNING: Do not place additionalfloor mats or any other covering on topof the original floor mats. This couldresult in the floor mat interfering with theoperation of the pedals. Failure to followthis instruction could result in the loss ofcontrol of your vehicle, personal injury ordeath.
WARNING: Always make sure thatobjects cannot fall into the driver footwell while your vehicle is moving. Objectsthat are loose can become trappedunder the pedals causing a loss ofvehicle control.
To install floor mats that have eyelets,position the floor mat eyelet over theretention post and press down to lock inposition. Repeat for all eyelets on the floormat.
To remove the floor mats, reverse theinstallation procedure.
Note:Regularly check the floor mats tomake sure they are secure.
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SNOW PLOWING
PRECAUTIONS
Your vehicle is not approved for snowplowing. Never snow plow with yourvehicle.
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SNOW PLOWING
PRECAUTIONS
WARNING: Modifying or addingequipment to the front of your vehiclecould affect the performance of theairbag system, increasing the risk ofinjury. This includes the hood, bumpersystem, frame, front body structure, towhooks, hood pins, push bar andsnowplows.
WARNING: Do not attempt toservice, repair, or modify thesupplementary restraint system orassociated components. Failure tofollow this instruction could result inpersonal injury or death.
WARNING: All occupants of yourvehicle, including the driver, shouldalways properly wear their seatbelts,even when an airbag supplementalrestraint system is provided. Failure toproperly wear your seatbelt couldseriously increase the risk of injury ordeath.
WARNING: Do not spin the wheelsat over 34 mph (55 km/h). The tires mayfail and injure a passenger or bystander.
Note:Look for an alterer’s label on yourvehicle from the snowplow installercertifying that the installation meets allapplicable Federal Motor Vehicle SafetyStandards (FMVSS).
Note:Federal and some local regulationsrequire additional exterior lamps forsnowplow-equipped vehicles. Contact anauthorized dealer for additional information.
Note:Do not remove or defeat the trippingmechanisms designed into the snowremoval equipment by its manufacturer.Doing so could cause damage to yourvehicle and the snow removal equipmentas well as possible airbag deployment.
OPERATING YOUR VEHICLE
WITH A SNOWPLOW
Weight limits and guidelines for selectingand installing the snowplow are in the FordTruck Body Builders Layout Book. Foradditional information, visitwww.fordbbas.com/home.
A typical snowplow installation affects thefollowing:
•Front gross axle weight rating. SeeWhat Is the Gross Axle WeightRating (page 405).
•Gross vehicle weight rating. See WhatIs the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating(page 405).
•Braking and steering.
•Front wheel toe. See the FordWorkshop Manual.
•Headlight aim. See Adjusting theHeadlamps (page 515).
•Tire air pressure. See Information onthe Tire Sidewall (page 538).
Note:Do not exceed the front gross axleweight rating or gross vehicle weight rating.
Note:Your vehicle may require rear ballastweight for proper braking and steering.
Your vehicle has a driver and passengerairbag supplemental restraint system. Thesupplemental restraint system activatesin certain frontal and offset frontalcollisions when the vehicle sustainssufficient longitudinal deceleration.
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