FORD FLEX 2014 1.G Owners Manual

Ignition Modes
Off:Turns the ignition off.
•Without applying the brake pedal, press and release the button once
when the ignition is in the on mode, or when the engine is running
but the vehicle is not in motion.
Accessory:Allows some electrical accessories to operate while the
engine is not running.
•Without applying the brake pedal, press and release the button once.
On:All electrical circuits are operational. Warning lamps and indicators
are illuminated.
•Without applying the brake pedal, press and release the button once
from accessory mode.
•Without applying the brake pedal, press and release the button twice
from off mode.
Start:Starts the engine.
•Press the brake pedal, and then press the button for any length of
time. An indicator light on the button illuminates when then ignition
is on and when the engine starts.
STARTING A GASOLINE ENGINE
When you start the engine, the idle speed increases, this helps to warm
up the engine. If the engine idle speed does not slow down automatically,
have your vehicle checked by an authorized dealer.
Note:You can crank the engine for a total of 60 seconds (without the
engine starting) before the starting system temporarily disables. The
60 seconds does not have to be all at once. For example, if you crank the
engine three times for 20 seconds each time, without the engine starting,
you reached the 60-second time limit. A message appears in the
information display alerting you that you exceeded the cranking time.
You cannot attempt to start the engine for at least 15 minutes. After
15 minutes, you are limited to a 15-second engine cranking time. You
need to wait 60 minutes before you can crank the engine for 60 seconds
again.
START
STOP ENGINE
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Before starting the engine check the following:
•Make sure all occupants have fastened their safety belts.
•Make sure the headlamps and electrical accessories are off.
•Make sure the parking brake is on.
•Make sure the gearshift is in positionP.
•Turn the ignition key to the on position. If your vehicle is equipped
with a keyless ignition, see the following instructions.
Vehicles with an Ignition Key
Note:Do not touch the accelerator pedal.
1. Fully press the brake pedal.
2. Turn the key to the start position. Release the key when the engine
starts.
Note:The engine may continue cranking for up to 15 seconds or until it
starts.
Note:If you cannot start the engine on the first try, wait for a short
period and try again.
Vehicles with Keyless Start
Note:Do not touch the accelerator pedal.
1. Fully press the brake pedal.
2. Press the button.
The system does not function if:
•The key frequencies are jammed.
•The key battery has no charge.
If you are unable to start your vehicle, do the following:
1. Locate the key backup slot in the
center console utility
compartment.
2. With the buttons facing the front
passenger and the key ring at the
rear of the console, place the key
into backup slot.
3. With the key in this position,
press the brake pedal, then the
button to switch the ignition on
and start your vehicle.
Fast Restart (Vehicles with Keyless Start)
The fast restart feature allows you to restart the engine within
20 seconds of switching it off, even if a valid key is not present.
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Within 20 seconds of switching the engine off, press the brake pedal and
press the button. After 20 seconds have expired, you can no longer start
the engine without the key present inside your vehicle.
Once the engine has started, it remains running until you press the
button, even if the system does not detect a valid key. If you open and
close a door while the engine is running, the system searches for a valid
key. You cannot start the engine if the system does not detect a valid key
within 20 seconds.
Failure to Start
If you cannot start the engine after three attempts, wait 10 seconds and
follow this procedure:
1. Fully press the brake pedal.
2. Fully press the accelerator pedal and hold it there.
3. Start the engine.
Automatic Engine Shutdown
If your vehicle is equipped with a keyless ignition, it has a feature that
automatically shuts down the engine if it has been idling for an extended
period. The ignition also turns off in order to save battery power. Before
the engine shuts down, a message appears in the information display
showing a timer counting down from 30 seconds. If you do not intervene
within 30 seconds, the engine shuts down. Another message appears in
the information display to inform you that the engine has shut down in
order to save fuel. Start your vehicle as you normally do.
Automatic Engine Shutdown Override
Note:You cannot permanently switch off the automatic engine shutdown
feature. When you switch it off temporarily, it turns on at the next
ignition cycle.
You can stop the engine shutdown, or reset the timer, at any point
before the 30-second countdown has expired by doing any of the
following:
•You can reset the timer by interacting with your vehicle (such as
pressing the brake pedal or accelerator pedal).
•You can temporarily switch off the shutdown feature any time the
ignition is on (for the current ignition cycle only). Use the
information display to do so.
•During the countdown before engine shutdown, you are prompted to
pressOKorRESET(depending on your type of information display)
to temporarily switch the feature off (for the current ignition cycle
only).
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Stopping the Engine When Your Vehicle is Stationary
1. Move the transmission selector lever to positionP.
2. If your vehicle has an ignition key, turn the key to the off position.
If your vehicle has a keyless start system, press the button once.
3. Apply the parking brake.
Note:This switches off the ignition, all electrical circuits, warning lamps
and indicators.
Note:If the engine is idling for 30 minutes, the ignition and engine
automatically shut down.
Stopping the Engine When Your Vehicle is Moving
WARNING:Switching off the engine when the vehicle is still
moving will result in a loss of brake and steering assistance.
The steering will not lock, but higher effort will be required. When the
ignition is switched off, some electrical circuits, warning lamps and
indicators may also be off.
1.If your vehicle has an ignition key,move the transmission
selector lever to positionNand use the brakes to bring your vehicle
to a safe stop. When your vehicle has stopped, move the transmission
selector lever to positionPand turn the key to the off position.
2.If your vehicle has a keyless start system,press and hold the
button for one second, or press it three times within two seconds.
Move the transmission selector lever to positionNand use the brakes
to bring your vehicle to a safe stop. When your vehicle has stopped,
move the transmission selector lever to positionPand switch the
ignition off.
3. Apply the parking brake.
Your vehicle may have remote start capability. Refer toRemote startin
theKeys and Remote Controlchapter.
Guarding Against Exhaust Fumes
WARNING:If you smell exhaust fumes inside your vehicle, have
this checked immediately. Do not drive your vehicle if you smell
exhaust fumes. Carbon monoxide is present in exhaust fumes. Take
precautions to avoid its dangerous effects.
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Important Ventilating Information
If you stop your vehicle and leave the engine idling for long periods of
time, we recommend that you do one of the following:
•Open the windows at least 1 inch (2.5 centimeters).
•Set your climate control to outside air.
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (IF EQUIPPED)
WARNING:Failure to follow engine block heater instructions
could result in property damage or physical injury.
WARNING:Do not use your heater with ungrounded electrical
systems or two-pronged (cheater) adapters. There is a risk of
electrical shock.
Note:The heater is most effective when outdoor temperatures are below
0°F (-18°C).
The heater acts as a starting aid by warming the engine coolant. This
allows the climate control system to respond quickly. The equipment
includes a heater element (installed in the engine block) and a wire
harness. You can connect the system to a grounded 120–volt A/C
electrical source.
We recommend that you do the following for safe and correct operation:
•Use a 16-gauge outdoor extension cord that is product certified by
Underwriter’s Laboratory or Canadian Standards Association. This
extension cord must be suitable for use outdoors, in cold
temperatures, and be clearly markedSuitable for Use with Outdoor
Appliances.Never use an indoor extension cord outdoors; it could
result in an electric shock or become a fire hazard.
•Use as short an extension cord as possible.
•Do not use multiple extension cords.
•Make sure that when in operation, the extension cord plug and the
heater cord plug connections are free and clear of water. This could
cause an electric shock or fire.
•Make sure your vehicle is parked in a clean area, clear of
combustibles.
•Make sure the heater, heater cord and extension cord are firmly
connected.
•Check for heat anywhere in the electrical hookup once the system has
been operating for approximately 30 minutes.
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•Make sure the system is unplugged and properly stowed before driving
your vehicle. Make sure the protective cover seals the prongs of the
block heater cord plug when not in use.
•Keep plug terminals clean and free of dirt and corrosion.
•Make sure the heater system is checked for proper operation before
winter.
Using the Engine Block Heater
Make sure the receptacle terminals are clean and dry prior to use. Clean
them with a dry cloth, if necessary.
The heater uses 0.4 to 1.0 kilowatt-hours of energy per hour of use. The
system does not have a thermostat. It achieves maximum temperature
after approximately three hours of operation. Using the heater longer
than three hours does not improve system performance and
unnecessarily uses electricity.
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SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
WARNING:Do not overfill the fuel tank. The pressure in an
overfilled tank may cause leakage and lead to fuel spray and fire.
WARNING:The fuel system may be under pressure. If you hear
a hissing sound near the fuel filler inlet, do not refuel until the
sound stops. Otherwise, fuel may spray out, which could cause serious
personal injury.
WARNING:Automotive fuels can cause serious injury or death if
misused or mishandled.
WARNING:The flow of fuel through a fuel pump nozzle can
produce static electricity, which can cause a fire if fuel is pumped
into an ungrounded fuel container.
WARNING:Fuel ethanol and gasoline may contain benzene,
which is a cancer-causing agent.
WARNING:When refueling always shut the engine off and never
allow sparks or open flames near the filler neck. Never smoke
while refueling. Fuel vapor is extremely hazardous under certain
conditions. Care should be taken to avoid inhaling excess fumes.
Observe the following guidelines when handling automotive fuel:
•Extinguish all smoking materials and any open flames before refueling
your vehicle.
•Always turn off the vehicle before refueling.
•Automotive fuels can be harmful or fatal if swallowed. Fuel, such as
gasoline, is highly toxic and if swallowed can cause death or
permanent injury. If fuel is swallowed, call a physician immediately,
even if no symptoms are immediately apparent. The toxic effects of
fuel may not be visible for hours.
•Avoid inhaling fuel vapors. Inhaling too much fuel vapor of any kind
can lead to eye and respiratory tract irritation. In severe cases,
excessive or prolonged breathing of fuel vapor can cause serious
illness and permanent injury.
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•Avoid getting fuel liquid in your eyes. If fuel is splashed in the eyes,
remove contact lenses (if worn), flush with water for 15 minutes and
seek medical attention. Failure to seek proper medical attention could
lead to permanent injury.
•Fuels can also be harmful if absorbed through the skin. If fuel is
splashed on the skin or clothing, promptly remove contaminated
clothing and wash skin thoroughly with soap and water. Repeated or
prolonged skin contact with fuel liquid or vapor causes skin irritation.
•Be particularly careful if you are taking Antabuse or other forms of
disulfiram for the treatment of alcoholism. Breathing gasoline vapors,
or skin contact could cause an adverse reaction. In sensitive
individuals, serious personal injury or sickness may result. If fuel is
splashed on the skin, promptly wash skin thoroughly with soap and
water. Consult a physician immediately if you experience an adverse
reaction.
FUEL QUALITY
Note:Use of any fuel other than those recommended may cause
powertrain damage and a loss of vehicle performance; repairs may not be
covered under warranty.
Your vehicle was not designed to use fuel or fuel additives with metallic
compounds, including manganese-based additives.
Choosing the Right Fuel
Use only unleaded fuel or unleaded fuel blended with a maximum of 15%
ethanol. Do not use fuel ethanol (E85), diesel fuel, fuel- methanol,
leaded fuel or any other fuel because it could damage or impair the
emission control system.
Octane Recommendations
3.5L/3.7L V6 engines
“Regular” unleaded gasoline with a pump (R+M)/2 octane rating of 87 is
recommended. Some stations offer fuels posted as “Regular” with an
octane rating below 87, particularly in high altitude areas. Fuels with
octane levels below 87 are not recommended.
3.5L V6 EcoBoost® engine
“Regular” unleaded gasoline with a pump (R+M)/2 octane rating of 87 is
recommended. Some stations offer fuels posted as “Regular” with an
octane rating below 87, particularly in high altitude areas. Fuels with
octane levels below 87 are not recommended. Premium fuel will provide
improved performance and is recommended for severe duty usage such
as trailer tow.
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Do not be concerned if your engine sometimes knocks lightly. However, if
it knocks heavily while you are using fuel with the recommended octane
rating, see your authorized dealer to prevent any engine damage.
RUNNING OUT OF FUEL
Avoid running out of fuel because this situation may have an adverse
effect on powertrain components.
If you have run out of fuel:
•You may need to cycle the ignition from off to on several times after
refueling to allow the fuel system to pump the fuel from the tank to
the engine. On restarting, crank time will be a few seconds longer
than normal. With keyless ignition, just start the engine. Crank time
will be longer than usual.
•Normally, adding 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of fuel is enough to restart the
engine. If the vehicle is out of fuel and on a steep grade, more than
1 gallon (3.8 liters) may be required.
•The service engine soon indicator may come on. For more information
on the service engine soon indicator, seeWarning Lamps and
Indicatorsin theInstrument Clusterchapter.
Refilling with a Portable Fuel Container
WARNING:Do not insert the nozzle of a portable fuel container
or aftermarket funnel into the capless fuel system. This could
damage the fuel system and its seal, and may cause fuel to run onto the
ground instead of filling the tank, which could result in serious personal
injury.
WARNING:Do not try to pry open or push open the capless fuel
system with foreign objects. This could damage the fuel system
and its seal and cause injury to you or others.
Note:Do not use aftermarket funnels; they will not work with the
capless fuel system and can damage it. The included funnel has been
specially designed to work safely with your vehicle.
When filling the vehicle’s fuel tank from a portable fuel container, use the
funnel included with the vehicle.
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1. Locate the white plastic funnel in the spare tire
compartment.
2. Slowly insert the funnel into the capless fuel
system.
3. Fill the vehicle with fuel from the portable fuel
container.
4. When done, clean the funnel or properly dispose of it. Extra funnels
can be purchased from your authorized dealer if you choose to dispose
of the funnel.
REFUELING
WARNING:Fuel vapor burns violently and a fuel fire can cause
severe injuries. To help avoid injuries to you and others:
•Read and follow all the instructions on the pump island.
•Turn off your engine when you are refueling.
•Do not smoke if you are near fuel or refueling your vehicle.
•Keep sparks, flames and smoking materials away from fuel.
•Stay outside your vehicle and do not leave the fuel pump unattended
when refueling your vehicle - this is against the law in some places.
•Keep children away from the fuel pump; never let children pump
fuel.
•Do not use personal electronic devices while refueling.
Use the following guidelines to avoid electrostatic charge build-up when
filling an ungrounded fuel container:
•Place approved fuel container on the ground.
•DO NOT fill a fuel container while it is in the vehicle (including the
cargo area).
•Keep the fuel pump nozzle in contact with the fuel container while
filling.
•DO NOT use a device that would hold the fuel pump handle in the fill
position.
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