coolant level FORD F250 SUPER DUTY 2014 Owners Manual

Engine Oil Pressure Gauge
Indicates engine oil pressure. The needleshould stay in the normal operating range(between L and H). If the needle fallsbelow the normal range, stop the vehicle,turn off the engine and check the engineoil level. Add oil if needed. If the oil level iscorrect, have your vehicle checked by yourauthorized dealer.
Engine Coolant TemperatureGauge
WARNING
Never remove the coolant reservoircap while the engine is running or hot.
Indicates engine coolant temperature. Atnormal operating temperature, the levelindicator will be in the normal range. If theengine coolant temperature exceeds thenormal range, stop the vehicle as soon assafely possible, switch off the engine andlet the engine cool.
Transmission Fluid TemperatureGauge
Indicates transmission fluid temperature.At normal operating temperature, the levelindicator will be in the normal range. If thetransmission fluid temperature exceedsthe normal range, stop the vehicle as soonas safely possible and verify the airflow isnot restricted such as snow or debrisblocking airflow through the grill. Also,higher than normal operating temperaturecan be caused by special operationconditions (i.e. snowplowing, towing oroff-road use). Refer to Special operatingconditions in the scheduled maintenanceinformation for instructions. Operating the
transmission for extended periods of timewith the gauge in the higher than normalarea may cause internal transmissiondamage. Altering the severity of the drivingconditions is recommended to lower thetransmission temperature into the normalrange. If the gauge continues to show hightemperatures, see your authorized dealer.
Fuel Gauge
Note:The fuel gauge may vary slightlywhen your vehicle is moving or on a gradient.
Switch the ignition on. The fuel gauge willindicate approximately how much fuel isleft in the fuel tank. The arrow adjacent tothe fuel pump symbol indicates on whichside of your vehicle the fuel filler door islocated.
The needle should move toward F whenyou refuel your vehicle. If the needle pointsto E after adding fuel, this indicates yourvehicle needs service soon.
After refueling some variability in needleposition is normal:
•It may take a short time for the needleto reach F after leaving the gas station.This is normal and depends upon theslope of pavement at the gas station.
•The fuel amount dispensed into thetank is a little less or more than thegauge indicated. This is normal anddepends upon the slope of pavementat the gas station.
•If the gas station nozzle shuts offbefore the tank is full, try a differentgas pump nozzle.
Low Fuel Reminder
A low fuel reminder triggers when the fuelgauge needle is at 1/16th.
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Instrument Cluster

WARNING
Driving your vehicle with the warninglamp on is dangerous. A significantdecrease in braking performancemay occur. It will take you longer to stopyour vehicle. Have your vehicle checked byyour authorized dealer immediately. Drivingextended distances with the parking brakeengaged can cause brake failure and therisk of personal injury.
Check Fuel Cap (If Equipped)
Illuminates when the fuel capmay not be properly installed.Continued driving with this lighton may cause the Service enginesoon warning indicator to come on.
Cruise Control (If Equipped)
Illuminates when you switch thisfeature on. See Using CruiseControl (page 174).
Direction Indicator
Illuminates when the left or rightturn signal or the hazard warningflasher is turned on. If theindicators stay on or flash faster, check fora burned out bulb.
Door Ajar
Displays when the ignition is onand any door is not completelyclosed.
Electronic Locking Differential
Illuminates when using theelectronic locking differential.
Engine Coolant Temperature
Illuminates when the enginecoolant temperature is high.Stop the vehicle as soon aspossible, switch off the engine and let cool.
Engine Oil
If it illuminates with the enginerunning or when you are driving,this indicates a malfunction.Stop your vehicle as soon as it is safe todo so and switch the engine off. Check theengine oil level. See Engine Oil Check(page 226).
Note:Do not resume your journey if itilluminates despite the level being correct.Have the system checked by your authorizeddealer immediately.
Fasten Safety Belt
It will illuminate and a chime willsound to remind you to fastenyour safety belt.
Front Airbag
If it fails to illuminate when youstart your vehicle, continues toflash or remains on, it indicatesa malfunction. Have the system checkedby your authorized dealer.
High Beam
Illuminates when you switch thehigh beam headlamps on. It willflash when you use theheadlamp flasher.
Hill Descent (If Equipped)
Illuminates when hill descent isswitched on.
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Instrument Cluster E71340 E163170 E163171

Diesel MessagesWARNING
When the CLEANING EXHAUSTFILTER message appears in theinformation display, do not park nearflammable materials, vapors or structuresuntil filter cleaning is complete.
ActionMessage
The coolant additive needs checking. Refer to your dieselsupplement for more information.CHECK COOLANTADDITIVE
Your vehicle has entered the cleaning mode. Various engineactions will raise the exhaust temperature in the DieselParticulate Filter system to burn off the particles (exhaustsoot). After the vehicle burns the particles off the exhausttemperature will return to normal levels. This message isNORMAL. Refer to your diesel supplement for more informa-tion.
CLEANING EXHAUSTFILTER
The diesel particulate filter is full of particles (exhaust soot)and you are not operating the vehicle in a manner that allowsnormal cleaning. One of these messages will stay on until theexhaust filter cleaning has begun, at which time the CLEANINGEXHAUST FILTER message displays. We recommend youdrive the vehicle above 30 mph (48 km/h) until the CLEANINGEXHAUST FILTER message turns off. Refer to your dieselsupplement for more information.
EXHAUST OVER-LOADED DRIVE TOCLEANEXHAUST AT LIMITDRIVE TO CLEAN NOW
The diesel particulate filter will continue to fill with particles(exhaust soot) if you ignore this message. The service enginesoon light will illuminate and engine power may be limited, ifcleaning is not permitted. Dealer service will then be requiredto restore your vehicle to full-power operation.
Your vehicle exhaust system temperature exceeds intendedoperating range. If this warning occurs, a chime will sound,followed by reduced engine power. The engine will shut downwhen your vehicle speed is below 3 mph (5 km/h). Stop thevehicle as soon as safely possible. Have the system checkedby an authorized dealer.
STOP SAFELY NOW
The diluted engine oil needs to be changed. Refer to yourdiesel supplement for more information.ENGINE OIL DILUTED
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Information Displays

ActionMessage
TO ENGAGE ELD SLOWTO XX MPH/KM/H
The electronic locking differential request the release of theaccelerator pedal in order to engage.TO ENGAGE LOCKINGDIFFERENTIAL RELEASEACCELERATOR PEDAL
TO ENGAGE ELDRELEASE PEDAL
The electronic locking differential requests a certain speedrequirement to engage.SLOW VEHICLE TO XXKM/H FOR ELD
The electronic locking differential requests a certain speedrequirement to engage.SLOW VEHICLE TO XXMPH FOR ELD
An electronic locking differential system fault is present. SeeUsing Four-Wheel Drive (page 149).CHECK LOCKINGDIFFERENTIAL
A reminder to shift into park.SHIFT TO PARK
Engine
ActionMessage
Your vehicle is set to transport mode. The transportmode disables certain vehicle functions to preventbattery discharge.
TRANSPORT MODE CONTACTDEALER
The engine has reduced power in order to help reducehigh coolant temperature See Engine Coolant Check(page 227).
POWER REDUCED TO LOWERENGINE TEMP
Fuel
ActionMessage
An early reminder of a low fuel condition.FUEL LEVEL LOW
The fuel cap may not be properly closed.CHECK FUEL CAP
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Information Displays

Power steering fluid reservoirF.
Brake fluid reservoirG.
Engine coolant reservoirH.
Air filter assemblyI.
Power distribution boxJ.
ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK
MINA
MAXB
ENGINE OIL CHECK
Note:For diesel engine information, referto the diesel supplement.
1. Make sure that your vehicle is on levelground.
2.Turn the engine off and wait 15 minutesfor the oil to drain into the oil pan.
3. Set the parking brake and ensure thegearshift is in P.
4. Open the hood. Protect yourself fromengine heat.
5.Locate and carefully remove the engineoil level dipstick. See the Under HoodOverview in this chapter for location ofdipstick.
6. Wipe the dipstick clean. Insert thedipstick fully, then remove it again.
•If the oil level is between the lowerand upper holes, the oil level isacceptable. DO NOT ADD OIL.
•If the oil level is below the lowerhole, add enough oil to raise thelevel within the lower and upperholes.
•Oil levels above the upper hole maycause engine damage. Some oilmust be removed from the engineby an authorized dealer.
7. Put the oil level dipstick back into theoil dipstick tube and ensure it is fullyseated.
Adding Engine Oil
Note:Do not remove the filler cap whenthe engine is running.
Note:Do not remove the engine oil leveldipstick when the engine is runnin
Note:Do not add oil further than the MAXmark. Oil levels above the MAX mark maycause engine damage.
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MaintenanceE161560
AB

Only use oils certified for gasoline enginesby the American Petroleum Institute (API).An oil with this trademark symbolconforms to the current engine andemission system protection standards andfuel economy requirements of theInternational Lubricants SpecificationAdvisory Council (ILSAC), comprised ofU.S. and Japanese automobilemanufacturers.
1. Check the engine oil level.
2. If the engine oil level is not within thenormal range, add engine oil thatmeets Ford specifications. SeeCapacities and Specifications for moreinformation.
3. Remove the engine oil filler cap anduse a funnel to pour the engine oil intothe opening.
4.Recheck the engine oil level. Make surethe oil level is not above the normaloperating range on the engine oil leveldipstick.
5. Install the engine oil level dipstick andensure it is fully seated.
6. Fully install the engine oil filler cap byturning the filler cap clockwise untilthree clicks are heard or until the capis fully seated.
ENGINE COOLANT CHECK
Checking the Engine Coolant
Note:If your vehicle is equipped with adiesel engine, refer to the DieselSupplement.
When the engine is cold, check theconcentration and level of the enginecoolant at the intervals listed in thescheduled maintenance information. SeeScheduled Maintenance (page 430).
Note:Make sure that the level is betweenthe MIN and MAX marks on the coolantreservoir.
Note:Coolant expands when it is hot. Thelevel may extend beyond the MAX mark
Note:If the level is at the MIN mark, belowthe MIN mark, or empty, add coolantimmediately. See Adding Engine Coolantin this chapter.
The coolant concentration should bemaintained within 48% to 50%, whichequates to a freeze point between -29°F(-34°C) and -35°F (-37°C).
Note:For best results, coolantconcentration should be tested with arefractometer such as Rotunda tool300-ROB75240 available from yourauthorized dealer. Ford does notrecommend the use of hydrometers orcoolant test strips for measuring coolantconcentrations.
Note:Automotive fluids are notinterchangeable. Do not use engine coolantor antifreeze or windshield washer fluidoutside of its specified function and vehiclelocation.
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MaintenanceE142732

Adding Engine Coolant
WARNINGS
Do not add engine coolant when theengine is hot. Steam and scaldingliquids released from a hot coolingsystem can burn you badly. Also, you canbe burned if you spill coolant on hot engineparts.
Do not put engine coolant in thewindshield washer fluid container. Ifsprayed on the windshield, enginecoolant could make it difficult to seethrough the windshield.
To reduce the risk of personal injury,make sure the engine is cool beforeunscrewing the coolant pressurerelief cap. The cooling system is underpressure; steam and hot liquid can comeout forcefully when the cap is loosenedslightly.
Do not add coolant further than theMAX mark.
Note:Do not use stop leak pellets, coolingsystem sealants, or additives as they cancause damage to the engine cooling orheating systems. This damage would notbe covered under your vehicle’s warranty.
Note:During normal vehicle operation, theengine coolant may change color fromorange to pink or light red. As long as theengine coolant is clear and uncontaminated,this color change does not indicate theengine coolant has degraded nor does itrequire the engine coolant to be drained, thesystem to be flushed, or the engine coolantto be replaced.
•Do not mix different colors or types ofcoolant in your vehicle. Make sure thecorrect coolant is used. Mixing ofengine coolants may harm yourengine’s cooling system. The use of animproper coolant may harm engine andcooling system components and mayvoid the warranty. Use predilutedengine coolant meeting the Fordspecification. See Capacities andSpecifications (page 292).
•In case of emergency, a large amountof water without engine coolant maybe added in order to reach a vehicleservice location. In this instance, thecooling system must be drained,chemically cleaned with Motorcraft®Premium Cooling System Flush, andrefilled with engine coolant as soon aspossible. Water alone (without enginecoolant) can cause engine damagefrom corrosion, overheating or freezing.
•Do not use alcohol, methanol, brine orany engine coolants mixed with alcoholor methanol antifreeze (coolant).Alcohol and other liquids can causeengine damage from overheating orfreezing.
•Do not add extra inhibitors or additivesto the coolant. These can be harmfuland compromise the corrosionprotection of the engine coolant.
Unscrew the cap slowly. Any pressure willescape as you unscrew the cap.
Add prediluted engine coolant meeting theFord specification. See Capacities andSpecifications (page 292).
Whenever coolant has been added, thecoolant level in the coolant reservoirshould be checked the next few times youdrive the vehicle. If necessary, add enoughprediluted engine coolant to bring thecoolant level to the proper level.
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Maintenance

When Fail-Safe Mode Is Activated
WARNINGS
Fail-safe mode is for use duringemergencies only. Operate thevehicle in fail-safe mode only as longas necessary to bring the vehicle to rest ina safe location and seek immediate repairs.When in fail-safe mode, the vehicle willhave limited power, will not be able tomaintain high-speed operation, and maycompletely shut down without warning,potentially losing engine power, powersteering assist, and power brake assist,which may increase the possibility of acrash resulting in serious injury.
Never remove the coolant reservoircap while the engine is running or hot.
You have limited engine power when in thefail-safe mode, so drive the vehicle withcaution. The vehicle will not be able tomaintain high-speed operation and theengine will run rough. Remember that theengine is capable of completely shuttingdown automatically to prevent enginedamage, therefore:
1. Pull off the road as soon as safelypossible and turn off the engine.
2. Arrange for the vehicle to be taken toan authorized dealer.
3. If this is not possible, wait a shortperiod for the engine to cool.
4. Check the coolant level and replenishif low.
5. Re-start the engine and take yourvehicle to an authorized dealer.
Note:Driving the vehicle without repairingthe engine problem increases the chance ofengine damage. Take your vehicle to anauthorized dealer as soon as possible.
Engine Fluid TemperatureManagement (If Equipped)
WARNING
To reduce the risk of collision andinjury, be prepared that the vehiclespeed may reduce and the vehiclemay not be able to accelerate with fullpower until the fluid temperatures reduce.
Your vehicle has been designed to pull atrailer, but because of the added load, thevehicle’s engine may temporarily reachhigher temperatures during severeoperating conditions such as ascending along or steep grade while pulling a trailerin hot ambient temperatures.
At this time, you may notice your enginecoolant temperature gauge needle movetoward the H and the POWER REDUCEDTO LOWER TEMP message may appearin the information display.
You may notice a reduction in the vehicle’sspeed caused by reduced engine power.Your vehicle has been designed to enterthis mode if certain high temperature/highload conditions take place in order tomanage the engine’s fluid temperatures.The amount of speed reduction willdepend on the vehicle loading, towing,grade, ambient temperature, and otherfactors. If this occurs, there is no need topull off the road. The vehicle can continueto be driven while this message is active
The air conditioning may also cycle on andoff during severe operating conditions toprotect overheating of the engine. Whenthe engine coolant temperature decreasesto a more normal operating temperature,the air conditioning will turn on once again.If you notice any of the following:
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Maintenance

•the engine coolant temperature gaugemoves fully into the red (hot) area
•the coolant temperature warning lightilluminates
•the service engine soon indicatorilluminates.
WARNING
Never remove the coolant reservoircap while the engine is running or hot.
1. Pull off the road as soon as safelypossible and place the vehicle in P(Park).
2. Leave the engine running until thecoolant temperature gauge needlemoves away from the H range. Afterseveral minutes, if this does nothappen, follow the remaining steps.
3. Turn the engine off and wait for it tocool before checking the coolant level.
4. If the coolant level is normal, you mayrestart your engine and continue on.
5. If the coolant is low, add coolant,restart the engine and take your vehicleto an authorized dealer. See Addingengine coolant in this chapter for moreinformation. Refer to fail-safe coolingfor additional information.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID CHECK
Have an authorized dealer check andchange the transmission fluid and filter atthe correct service interval. SeeScheduled Maintenance (page 430).
Do not use supplemental transmissionfluid additives, treatments or cleaningagents. The use of these materials mayaffect transmission operation and resultin damage to internal transmissioncomponents.
Checking Automatic TransmissionFluid (If Equipped)
For scheduled intervals of the fluid checksand changes, See ScheduledMaintenance (page 430). Yourtransmission does not consume fluid.However, the fluid level should be checkedif the transmission is not working properly,i.e., if the transmission slips or shifts slowlyor if you notice some sign of fluid leakage.
Automatic transmission fluid expandswhen warmed. To obtain an accurate fluidcheck, drive the vehicle until it is at normaloperating temperature (approximately19 mi (30 km)). Verify that thetransmission fluid temperature gauge,located on the instrument cluster, is withinnormal range.
1. Drive the vehicle 19 mi (30 km)until itreaches normal operating temperature.
2.Park the vehicle on a level surface andengage the parking brake.
3.With the engine running, parking brakeengaged and your foot on the brakepedal, move the gearshift lever throughall of the gear ranges. Allow sufficienttime for each gear to engage.
4.Latch the gearshift lever in P and leavethe engine running.
5. Remove the dipstick, wiping it cleanwith a clean, dry lint free rag. Ifnecessary, refer to the Under HoodOverview in this chapter for thelocation of the dipstick.
6.Install the dipstick making sure it is fullyseated in the filler tube.
7. Remove the dipstick and inspect thefluid level. The fluid should be in thedesignated area for normal operatingtemperature or ambient temperature.
Low Fluid Level
Type A
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Fuel system
•Fill the fuel tank with high-quality fueluntil the first automatic shutoff of thefuel pump nozzle.
Cooling system
•Protect against freezing temperatures.
•When removing your vehicle fromstorage, check coolant fluid level.Confirm there are no cooling systemleaks, and fluid is at the recommendedlevel.
Battery
•Check and recharge as necessary. Keepconnections clean.
•If storing your vehicle for more than 30days without recharging the battery, itmay be advisable to disconnect thebattery cables to ensure battery chargeis maintained for quick starting.
Note:If battery cables are disconnected, itwill be necessary to reset memory features.
Brakes
•Make sure brakes and parking brakeare fully released.
Tires
•Maintain recommended air pressure.
Miscellaneous
•Make sure all linkages, cables, leversand pins under your vehicle are coveredwith grease to prevent rust.
•Move vehicles at least 25 feet (8meters) every 15 days to lubricateworking parts and prevent corrosion.
Removing Vehicle From Storage
When your vehicle is ready to come out ofstorage, do the following:
•Wash your vehicle to remove any dirtor grease film build-up on windowsurfaces.
•Check windshield wipers for anydeterioration.
•Check under the hood for any foreignmaterial that may have collectedduring storage (mice/squirrel nests).
•Check the exhaust for any foreignmaterial that may have collectedduring storage.
•Check tire pressures and set tireinflation per the Tire Label.
•Check brake pedal operation. Driveyour vehicle 15 feet (4.5 meters) backand forth to remove rust build-up.
•Check fluid levels (including coolant,oil and gas) to make sure there are noleaks, and fluids are at recommendedlevels.
•If the battery was removed, clean thebattery cable ends and inspect.
Contact your authorized dealer if you haveany concerns or issues.
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Vehicle Care