check engine FORD F250 2013 Owner's Guide

TRANSMISSION FLUID CHECK
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.
1. Drive the vehicle 20 miles (30 km) or until it reaches normal operating
temperature.
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
3. With the engine running, parking brake engaged and your foot on the
brake pedal, move the gearshift lever through all of the gear ranges.
Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage.
4. Latch the gearshift lever in P (Park) and leave the engine running.
5. Remove the dipstick, wiping it clean with a clean, dry lint free rag.
If necessary, refer toUnder Hood Overviewin this chapter for the
location of the dipstick.
6. Install the dipstick making sure it is fully seated in the filler tube.
7. Remove the dipstick and inspect the fluid level. The fluid should be
in the designated area for normal operating temperature or ambient
temperature.
Your vehicle is equipped with one of the following dipsticks.
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BRAKE FLUID CHECK
Fluid levels between 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 the system
could be compromised; seek service from your authorized dealer
immediately.
POWER STEERING FLUID CHECK
Check the power steering fluid. Refer to yourScheduled Maintenance
Information.If adding fluid is necessary, use only MERCON® V ATF.
Note:This procedure is for vehicles with gasoline engines. Vehicles with
diesel engines are similar. Refer toUnder Hood Overviewin your diesel
supplement.
Check the fluid level when it is at ambient temperature, 20°F–80°F
(-7°C–25°C):
1. Check the fluid level in the reservoir. It should be between the MIN
and MAX range. Do not add fluid if the level is within this range.
2. If the fluid level is low. Add fluid to bring fluid level up to be between
the MIN and MAX range.
3. Start the engine.
4. While the engine idles, turn the steering wheel left and right several
times.
5. Turn the engine off.
6. Recheck the fluid level in the reservoir. Do not add fluid if the level is
between the MIN and MAX range.
7. If the fluid is low, add fluid in small amounts, continuously checking
the level until it is between the MIN and MAX range. Refer toCapacities
and Specificationsfor the proper fluid type. Be sure to put the cap
back on the reservoir.
FUEL FILTER
If equipped with a gasoline engine, your vehicle is equipped with a
lifetime fuel filter that is integrated with the fuel tank. Regular
maintenance or replacement is not needed.
If equipped with a diesel engine, refer to the diesel supplement.
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AIR FILTER CHECK
Refer toScheduled Maintenance Informationfor the appropriate
intervals for changing the air filter element.
When changing the air filter element, use only the Motorcraft® air filter
element listed. Refer to theMotorcraft® Part Numbers.
The following procedure is for vehicles equipped with a gasoline engine.
If your vehicle is equipped with a diesel engine, refer to the diesel
supplement.
Note:Do not start your engine with the air cleaner removed and do not
remove it while the engine is running.
Note:Failure to use the correct air filter element may result in severe
engine damage. The customer warranty may be void for any damage to
the engine if the correct air filter element is not used.
Changing the Air Filter Element
1. Locate the mass air flow sensor
electrical connector on the air
outlet tube. This connector will
need to be unplugged.
2. Reposition the locking clip on the
connector (connector shown from
below for clarity), squeeze the
connector and pull it off of the air
outlet tube.
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Body
•Wash vehicle thoroughly to remove dirt, grease, oil, tar or mud from
exterior surfaces, rear-wheel housing and underside of front fenders.
•Periodically wash vehicles stored in exposed locations.
•Touch up raw or primed metal to prevent rust.
•Cover chrome and stainless steel parts with a thick coat of auto wax
to prevent discoloration. Re-wax as necessary when the vehicle is
washed.
•Lubricate hood latch, all door latches and trunk lid hinges with a light
grade oil.
•Cover interior trim to prevent fading.
•Keep all rubber parts free from oil and solvents.
Engine
•The engine oil and filter should be changed prior to storage, as used
engine oil contains contaminates that may cause engine damage.
•Start the engine every 15 days. Run at fast idle until it reaches normal
operating temperature.
•With your foot on the brake, shift through all the gears while the
engine is running.
Fuel system
•Fill the fuel tank with high-quality fuel until the first automatic shutoff
of the fuel pump nozzle.
Note:During extended periods of vehicle storage (30 days or more),
fuel may deteriorate due to oxidation. Add a quality gas stabilizer
product to the vehicle fuel system whenever actual or expected storage
periods exceed 30 days. Follow the instructions on the additive label.
The vehicle should then be operated at idle speed to circulate the
additive throughout the fuel system.
Cooling system
•Protect against freezing temperatures.
•When removing vehicle from storage, check coolant fluid level.
Confirm there are no cooling system leaks, and fluid is at the
recommended level.
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Note:Automatic transmissions that require MERCON® LV should only use MERCON® LV 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 must meet or exceed the
requirements of Ford specification WSS-M2C945-A, SAE 5W-20, and display the API Starburst
Certification Mark.6If the Ford specification is not shown on the oil container, the oil container must display the API
Starburst Certification Mark and the correct viscosity.7Refer toChecking automatic transmission fluidin this chapter for the correct dipstick type.
Fill to the proper capacity according to dipstick Type A.8Refer toChecking automatic transmission fluidin this chapter for the correct dipstick type.
Fill to the proper capacity according to dipstick Type B.
394Capacities and Specifications
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The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) contains the following
information:
A. World manufacturer identifier
B. Brake system / Gross Vehicle
Weight Rating (GVWR) / Restraint
Devices and their location
C. Make, vehicle line, series, body
type
D. Engine type
E. Check digit
F. Model year
G. Assembly plant
H. Production sequence number.
VEHICLE CERTIFICATION LABEL
The National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration Regulations require
that a Safety Compliance Certification
Label be affixed to a vehicle and
prescribe where the Safety Compliance
Certification Label may be located. The
Safety Compliance Certification Label
shall be affixed to either the door hinge
pillar, the door latch post, or the edge
of the door near the door latch, next to
the driver’s seating position.
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Owner Checks and Services
Certain basic maintenance checks and inspections should be performed
every month or at six month intervals.
Check every month
Engine oil level.
Function of all interior and exterior lights.
Tires (including spare) for wear and proper pressure.
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 and outside locks for proper operation. Lubricate if
necessary.
Parking brake for proper operation.
Safety belts and seat latches for wear and function.
Safety warning lamps (brake, ABS, airbag, safety belt) for operation.
Washer spray and wiper operation. Clean or replace blades as
necessary.
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Multi-point Inspection
In order to keep your vehicle running right, it is important to have
the systems on your vehicle checked regularly. This can help identify
potential issues and prevent major problems. Ford Motor Company
recommends the following multi-point inspection be performed at every
scheduled maintenance interval to help make sure your vehicle keeps
running great.
Multi-point inspection
Accessory drive belt(s) Horn operation
Battery performance Radiator, cooler, heater and A/C hoses
Engine air filter Suspension component for leaks or
damage
Exhaust system Steering and linkage
Exterior lamps and hazard
warning system operationTires (including spare) for wear and
proper pressure
**
Fluid levels*; fill if necessary Windshield for cracks, chips or pits
For oil and fluid leaks Washer spray and wiper operation
*Brake, coolant recovery reservoir, automatic transmission, power
steering and window washer.
**If your vehicle is equipped with a temporary mobility kit, check the tire
sealant expiration Use By date on the canister. Replace as needed.
Be sure to ask your dealership service advisor or technician about the
multi-point vehicle inspection. It is a comprehensive way to perform a
thorough inspection of your vehicle. It is your checklist that gives you
immediate feedback on the overall condition of your vehicle. You will
know what has been checked, what is okay, as well as those things that
may require future or immediate attention. The multi-point vehicle
inspection is one more way to keep your vehicle running great!
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EXCEPTIONS
Normal vehicle axle maintenance:Rear axles and power take-off units
with synthetic fluid and light-duty trucks equipped with Ford-design axles
are lubricated for life; do not check or change fluid unless a leak is
suspected, service is required or the assembly has been submerged in
water. During long periods of trailer towing with outside temperatures
above 70°F (21°C) and at wide-open throttle for long periods above
45 mph (72 km/h), non-synthetic rear axle fluids should be changed every
3000 miles (4800 kilometers) or three months, whichever comes first. This
interval can be waived if the axle is filled with 75W140 synthetic gear fluid
meeting Ford specification WSL-M2C192-A, part number F1TZ-19580-B or
equivalent. Add friction modifier XL-3 (EST-M2C118-A) or equivalent for
complete refill of Traction-Lok rear axles (seeTechnical specificationsin
theCapacities and Specificationschapter for details).
Police/Taxi/Livery vehicle axle maintenance:Change rear axle fluid
every 100000 miles (160000 km). Rear axle fluid change may be waived
if the axle was filled with 75W140 synthetic gear fluid meeting Ford
specification WSL-M2C192-A, part number FITZ-19580-B or equivalent.
Add four ounces (118 mL) of additive friction modifier XL-3
(EST-M2C118-A) or equivalent for complete refill of Traction-Lok rear
axles. The axle fluid should be changed anytime the axle has been
submerged in water.
California fuel filter replacement:If the vehicle is registered in
California, the California Air Resources Board has determined that the
failure to perform this maintenance item will not nullify the emission
warranty or limit recall liability prior to the completion of the vehicle’s
useful life. Ford Motor Company, however, urges you to have all
recommended maintenance services performed at the specified
intervals and to record all vehicle service.
Hot climate oil change intervals:Vehicles operating in the Middle
East, North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa or locations with similar climates
using an American Petroleum Institute (API) Certified for Gasoline
Engines (Certification mark) oil of SM or SN quality, the normal oil
change interval is 5000 miles (8000 kilometers).
If the available API SM or SN oils are not available, then the oil change
service interval is 3000 miles (4800 kilometers).
Engine air filter replacement:Engine air filter life is dependent on
exposure to dusty and dirty conditions. Vehicles operated in these
conditions require frequent inspection and replacement of the engine air
filter.
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911 Assist™ ......................441, 516
A
ABS (see Brakes) .....................223
Accessing and using your
USB port ....................................494
Accessing call history/phone
book during active call .............429
Accessing your calendar ..........515
Accessing your media menu
features ......................................454
Accessing your phone menu
features ......................................431
Accessory delay ..........................92
Active call menu options .........429
Adding (pairing) a phone ........502
Advanced menu options ...439, 459
Advanced menu options
(prompts, languages, defaults,
master reset, installing
applications) ..............................439
Airbag supplemental restraint
system ..........................................48
and child safety seats ..............49
description ................................48
disposal ......................................60
driver airbag ..............................48
passenger airbag .......................48
passenger deactivation
switch ........................................51
side airbag ...........................48, 56
Air cleaner filter ...............323, 395
Air conditioning ........................146
manual heating and air
conditioning system ...............146
Air filter .............................323, 395All Wheel Drive (AWD),
driving off road .........................209
Ambient mood/lighting .....522–523
Ambulance packages ..................16
AM/FM .......................................481
Antifreeze
(see Engine coolant) ................307
Anti-lock brake system
(see Brakes) ..............................223
Anti-theft system ..................77, 79
arming the system ..............77, 79
disarming a triggered system ..79
AppLink™ .................................449
Audio system
Single CD ................136–137, 140
Audio system
(see Radio) ................136–137, 140
Automatic transmission ............201
driving an automatic
overdrive .................................199
fluid, adding ............................313
fluid, checking ........................313
fluid, refill capacities ..............391
fluid, specification ..................391
Selectshift (SST) ....................204
Auxiliary Input Jack .................490
Auxiliary input jack (Line in) ..141
Auxiliary powerpoint ................178
A/V inputs ..........................143, 498
Axle
refill capacities ........................391
B
Battery .......................................318
acid, treating emergencies .....318
jumping a disabled battery ....279
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