service interval FORD F250 2012 Owners Manual

Trip A/B
In this mode, Trip A or B registers the following:
•Trip Time — shows the elapsed trip time. This timer will stop when
the vehicle is turned off and will restart when the vehicle is restarted.
•Trip Distance — shows the accumulated trip distance.
•Fuel Used — shows the amount of fuel used for a given trip.
•Average MPG (L/100km) — shows the average distance traveled per
unit of fuel used for a given trip.
•Odometer — shows the vehicle’s total accumulated distance. This
value cannot be reset.
Press the right arrow key to reach Trip B. Press the left arrow to go back
to Trip A.
Press OK to pause the Trip A or B screen/press again to un-pause.
Press and hold OK to reset the currently displayed trip information.
Fuel Economy
In this mode, fuel economy information is displayed as follows:
•Instant MPG (L/100km) — shows instantaneous fuel usage.
•Miles (kilometers) to empty — shows the approximate distance the
vehicle can travel before running out of fuel.
•Average MPG (L/100km) — shows the average fuel usage based on
time. See Fuel Hist. following to change the time interval. Press and
hold OK to reset this value.
If you calculate your average fuel economy by dividing miles traveled by
gallons of fuel used (liters of fuel used by 100 kilometers traveled), your
figure may be different than displayed for the following reasons:
•Your vehicle was not perfectly level during fill-up.
•Differences in the automatic shut-off points on the fuel pumps at
service stations.
•Variations in top-off procedure from one fill-up to another.
•Rounding of the displayed values to the nearest 0.1 gallon (liter).
To determine your average highway fuel economy, do the following:
1. Drive the vehicle at least 5 miles (8 km) with the speed control
system engaged to display a stabilized average.
2. Record the highway fuel economy for future reference.
Instrument Cluster
41
2012 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide, 4th Printing
USA(fus)

ENGINE IDLED - SEE OWNER’S MANUAL EXHAUST FLUID
SYSTEM FAULT (diesel engine only)— Displayed when the SCR
system detects a fault. The engine will eventually enter into an idle-only
mode. Press OK to override the idle mode. Refer to your diesel
supplement for more information. Contact your authorized dealer as soon
as possible.
FUEL FILTER CHANGE REQUIRED (diesel engine only)—
Displayed when a fuel filter change is required. Refer to thescheduled
maintenance information.
LOW FUEL PRESSURE (diesel engine only)— If this message
appears during a cold start or during cold operation 32°F (0°C) up to
10 minutes after the initial cold start; monitor the message center and if
it disappears and does not re-appear after the engine has fully warmed
up, the low fuel pressure message is most likely caused by waxed or
gelled fuel. To prevent this, use an anti-gel additive. Refer to your diesel
supplement for more information. The customer warranty may be void
from using additives that do not meet or exceed Ford specifications. If
the low fuel pressure message persistently appears after re-fueling during
the cold start and cold operation conditions defined previously and then
disappear when the engine has fully warmed up, consider different fuel
sources.
•Low Fuel Operation: If the message appears when the vehicle is warm
and during low fuel tank level operation, i.e. the tank level is at or
very near empty, refuel the vehicle and operate the vehicle. If the
message reappears after fueling, see below. If the message does not
come back, the low fuel pressure condition was due to low fuel levels
in the fuel tank.
•Normal Operation: If the message appears during normal operation
when the vehicle / engine is fully warm, and fuel level is not low, the
fuel filters must be changed regardless of the maintenance schedule
interval. If replacement of the fuel filter does not remedy the low fuel
pressure message during normal operation as defined above, please
take the vehicle to your authorized dealer.
REDUCED ENGINE POWER (diesel engine only)— Displayed
approximately two hours after the DRIVE TO CLEAN EXHAUST
SYSTEM message has displayed and the vehicle operator has not driven
the vehicle above 30 mph (48 km/h) for at least 20 minutes to clean the
DPF. At this point the vehicle must be serviced by an authorized dealer.
This message is normal. Refer to your diesel supplement for more
information.
Instrument Cluster
53
2012 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide, 4th Printing
USA(fus)

Determining if the system is operational
The SRS uses a readiness light in the instrument cluster or a tone to
indicate the condition of the system. Refer toWarning lights and
chimesin theInstrument Clusterchapter. Routine maintenance of the
side airbag is not required.
A difficulty with the system is indicated by one or more of the following:
•The readiness light (same light as for front airbag system) will either
flash or stay lit.
•The readiness light will not illuminate immediately after ignition is
turned on.
•A series of five beeps will be heard. The tone pattern will repeat
periodically until the problem and/or light are repaired.
If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the SRS serviced
at your authorized dealer immediately. Unless serviced, the system may
not function properly in the event of a collision.
SOS Post-Crash Alert System™
The system automatically flashes the turn signal lamps and sounds the
horn three times at four second intervals in the event of a serious impact
that deploys an airbag (front, side, side curtain [if equipped] or Safety
Canopy[if equipped]) or the safety belt pretensioners.
The system can be turned off when any one of the following actions are
taken by the driver or any other person:
•pressing the hazard control button,
•or pressing the panic button on the remote entry transmitter.
The feature will continue to operate until the vehicle runs out of power.
Seating and Safety Restraints
189
2012 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide, 4th Printing
USA(fus)

Braking
•Anticipate stops; allow more distance and time to stop than normal.
•Do not apply the trailer brakes for extended periods of time as they
can overheat and lose effectiveness.
•The trailer brakes (including the shoes, drum and trailer brake
magnets) must be inspected and serviced at intervals specified by the
manufacturer.
•Electric brakes also require periodic adjustment to keep the shoes
properly spaced. If the brakes get hot when driving or if they will not
hold, chances are that they need adjustment.
Backing-up
•Practice backing-up, particularly if you are a novice. Turn the steering
wheel to the right to move the trailer’s rear end to the right.
•Sharp steering movements may cause the trailer to jackknife or go out
of control.
Tires
•Select tires that meet the trailer loading requirements.
•All trailer tires should be of the same size, and construction.
•Always check tow vehicle and trailer tire pressure before towing.
Launching or Retrieving a Boat or Personal Water Craft (PWC)
Note:Disconnect the wiring to the trailerbeforebacking the trailer into
the water.
Note:Reconnect the wiring to the trailer after the trailer is removed
from the water.
When backing down a ramp during boat launching or retrieval:
1. Do not allow the static water level to rise above the bottom edge of
the rear bumper.
2. Do not allow waves to break higher than six inches (15 centimeters)
above the bottom edge of the rear bumper.
Exceeding these limits may allow water to enter vehicle components:
1. Causing internal damage to the components.
2. Affecting driveability, emissions, and reliability.
Replace the rear axle lubricant any time the rear axle has been
submerged in water. Water may have contaminated the rear axle
lubricant, which is not normally checked or changed unless a leak is
suspected or other axle repair is required.
Tires, Wheels and Loading
262
2012 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide, 4th Printing
USA(fus)

Operating the vehicle with the snowplow attached
Do not use your vehicle for snow removal until it has been driven at
least 500 miles (800 km).
The attached snowplow blade restricts airflow to the radiator, and may
cause the engine to run at a higher temperature: Attention to engine
temperature is especially important when outside temperatures are
above freezing. Angle the blade to maximize airflow to the radiator and
monitor engine temperature to determine whether a left or right angle
provides the best performance.
Follow the severe duty schedule in yourscheduled maintenance
informationfor engine oil and transmission fluid change intervals.
Snowplowing with your airbag-equipped vehicle
Your vehicle is equipped with a driver and passenger airbag
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) The SRS is designed to activate in
certain frontal and offset frontal collisions when the vehicle sustains
sufficient longitudinal deceleration.
Careless or high speed driving while plowing snow which results in
sufficient vehicle decelerations can deploy the airbag. Such driving also
increases the risk of accidents.
WARNING:All occupants of the vehicle, including the driver,
should always properly wear their safety belts, even when an air
bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) is provided.
Never remove or defeat the “tripping mechanisms” designed into the
snow removal equipment by its manufacturer. Doing so may cause
damage to the vehicle and the snow removal equipment as well as
possible airbag deployment.
WARNING:Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the air
bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) or its fuses. See your
Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealer.
WARNING:Additional equipment such as snowplow equipment
may effect the performance of the airbag sensors increasing the
risk of injury. Please refer to theBody Builders Layout Bookfor
instructions about the appropriate installation of additional equipment.
Driving
317
2012 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide, 4th Printing
USA(fus)

BRAKE FLUID
•Vacuum boost system
•Hydroboost system
The fluid level will drop slowly as the brakes wear, and will rise when the
brake components are replaced. Fluid levels between the top of the MIN
and MAX lines are within the normal operating range; there is no need to
add fluid. If the fluid levels are outside of the normal operating range,
the performance of your brake system could be compromised; seek
service from your authorized dealer immediately.
TRANSMISSION FLUID
Checking automatic transmission fluid (if equipped)
Refer to yourscheduled maintenance informationfor scheduled
intervals for fluid checks and changes. 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.
Automatic transmission fluid expands when warmed. To obtain an
accurate fluid check, drive the vehicle until it is at normal operating
temperature (approximately 20 miles [30 km]). Verify that the
transmission fluid temperature gauge, located on the instrument cluster,
is within normal range.
MIN MAX
Maintenance and Specifications
400
2012 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide, 4th Printing
USA(fus)

Item Capacity Ford part nameFord part number /
Ford specification
Windshield washer fluid Fill as requiredMotorcraftPremium
Windshield Washer
Concentrate (US)
Premium Quality
Windshield Washer Fluid
(Canada)ZC-32–A (US)
CXC-37-(A, B, D, and F)
(Canada) /
WSB-M8B16–A2 /- -
1Add 8 oz. (236 ml) of Additive Friction Modifier XL-3 or equivalent meeting Ford Specification
EST-M2C118–A for complete refill of limited slip Ford axles. Ford design rear axles contain a
synthetic lubricant that does not require changing unless the axle has been submerged in water.2Add the coolant type originally equipped in your vehicle.3Ensure the correct automatic transmission fluid is used. Transmission fluid requirements are
indicated on the dipstick blade or the dipstick handle. Check the container to verify the fluid being
added is of the correct type. Refer to yourscheduled maintenance informationto determine the
correct service interval.
Automatic transmissions that require MERCONLV should only use MERCONLV fluid.
Use of any fluid other than the recommended fluid may cause transmission damage.4Indicates only approximate dry-fill capacity. Some applications may vary based on cooler size and
if equipped with an in-tank cooler. The amount of transmission fluid and fluid level should be set
by the indication on the dipstick’s normal operating range.5Use of synthetic or synthetic blend motor oil is not mandatory. Engine oil need only meet the
requirements of Ford specification WSS-M2C945-A and the API Certification mark.6Refer toChecking automatic transmission fluidin this chapter for the correct dipstick type.
Fill to the proper capacity according to dipstick Type A.7Refer toChecking automatic transmission fluidin this chapter for the correct dipstick type.
Fill to the proper capacity according to dipstick Type B.
Maintenance and Specifications
414
2012 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide, 4th Printing
USA(fus)

GENERAL MAINTENANCE INFORMATION
The following information pertains to 6.2L V8 and 6.8L V10 gasoline
engines only. Scheduled maintenance for the diesel engine can be found
in the diesel supplement.
Why Maintain Your Vehicle?
Carefully following this schedule helps protect against major repair
expenses resulting from neglect or inadequate maintenance and may also
help to increase the value of your vehicle when you sell or trade it.
It is your responsibility to see that all scheduled maintenance is performed
and that the materials used meet Ford engineering specifications as
identified in theMaintenance and Specificationschapter. Failure to
perform scheduled maintenance specific in this guide will invalidate
warranty coverage on parts affected by the lack of maintenance. Be sure
receipts for completed maintenance are kept with the vehicle and
confirmation of the work performed is always recorded in this guide.
Your dealer has factory-trained technicians who can perform the required
maintenance using genuine Ford parts. They are committed to meeting
your service needs and to assuring your continuing satisfaction.
Protecting Your Investment
Maintenance is an investment that will pay dividends in the form of
improved reliability, durability and resale value. To maintain the proper
performance of your vehicle and its emission control systems, it is imperative
that scheduled maintenance be completed at the designated intervals.
Your vehicle is very sophisticated and built with multiple complex
performance systems. Every manufacturer develops these systems using
different specifications and performance features. That’s why it’s important
to rely upon your dealership to properly diagnose and repair your vehicle.
Ford Motor Company has recommended maintenance intervals for various
parts and component systems based upon engineering testing. Ford Motor
Company relies upon this testing to determine the most appropriate
mileage for replacement of oils and fluids to protect your vehicle at the
lowest overall cost to you and recommends against maintenance schedules
that deviate from the scheduled maintenance information.
Ford strongly recommends the use of genuine Ford replacement parts.
Parts other than Ford, Motorcraftor Ford-authorized remanufactured
parts that are used for maintenance replacement or for the service of
components affecting emission control must be equivalent to genuine
Ford Motor Company parts in performance and durability. It is the
Scheduled Maintenance
424
2012 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide, 4th Printing
USA(fus)

owner’s responsibility to determine the equivalency of such parts. Please
consult yourWarranty Guidefor complete warranty information.
Chemicals or additives not approved by Ford are not required for factory
recommended maintenance. In fact, Ford Motor Company recommends
against the use of such additive products unless specifically
recommended by Ford for a particular application.
Oils, Fluids and Flushing
In many cases, fluid discoloration is a normal operating characteristic
and, by itself, does not necessarily indicate a concern or that the fluid
needs to be changed. However, discolored fluids that also show signs of
overheating and/or foreign material contamination should be inspected
immediately by a qualified expert such as the factory-trained technicians
at your dealership. Your vehicle’s oils and fluids should be changed at the
specified intervals or in conjunction with a repair. Flushing is a viable
way to change fluid for many vehicle sub-systems during scheduled
maintenance. It is critical that systems are flushed only with new fluid
that is the same as that required to fill and operate the system, or using
a Ford-approved flushing chemical.
Genuine Ford Parts and Service
When planning your maintenance services, consider your dealership for
all your vehicle’s needs.
There are a lot of reasons why visiting your dealership for all your
service needs is a great way to help keep your vehicle running great.
Convenience
Many dealerships have extended evening and Saturday hours to make
your service visit more convenient. How’s that for quality service?
Factory-trained Technicians
Service technicians participate in extensive factory-sponsored
certification training to help them become experts on the operation of
your vehicle. Ask your dealership about the training and certification
their technicians have received.
Genuine Ford and MotorcraftReplacement Parts
Dealerships stock Ford and Motorcraftbranded remanufactured
replacement parts. These parts meet or exceed Ford Motor Company’s
specifications, and we stand behind them. Parts installed at your
dealership carry a nationwide, 12 month/12,000 mile (20,000 km) parts
and labor limited warranty. Your dealer can give you details.
Scheduled Maintenance
425
2012 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide, 4th Printing
USA(fus)

Value Shopping for Your Vehicle’s Maintenance Needs
Your dealership recognizes the competitive landscape of maintenance and
light repair automotive services. With factory-trained technicians, and
one-stop service from routine maintenance like oil changes and tire
rotations to repairs like brake service, check out the value your dealers
can offer.
Owner checks and services
Certain basic maintenance checks and inspections should be performed
by the owner or a service technician at the intervals indicated. Service
information and supporting specifications are provided in this owner’s
guide.
Any adverse condition should be brought to the attention of your dealer
or qualified service technician as soon as possible for the proper service
advice. The owner maintenance service checks are generally not covered
by warranties so you may be charged for labor, parts or fluids used.
Engine oil/coolant change intervals
Engine oil (6.2L/6.8L)*6 months or 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
(whichever comes first)
Engine coolant, initial
change6 years or 105,000 miles (168,000 km)
(whichever comes first)
Engine coolant, after
initial changeEvery 3 years or 45,000 miles (72,000 km)
*If your vehicle is equipped with a diesel engine, refer to the diesel
supplement for engine oil/coolant change schedules
Check every month
Engine oil level
Function of all interior and exterior lights
Tires for wear and proper pressure, including spare
Windshield washer fluid level
Check every six months
Battery connections; clean if necessary
Body and door drain holes for obstructions; clean if necessary
Cooling system fluid level and coolant strength
Door weatherstrips for wear; lubricate if necessary
Hinges/latches/outside locks for proper operation; lubricate if necessary
Scheduled Maintenance
426
2012 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide, 4th Printing
USA(fus)