maintenance FORD FLEX 2015 1.G User Guide

Maintenance
MessagesAction / Description
Service Power Steering
NowThe power steering system has detected a
condition within the power steering system
that requires service immediately. See your
authorized dealer.
Power Steering Assist
FaultThe power steering system has disabled power
steering assist due to a system error. See your
authorized dealer.
MyKey® Messages Action / Description
MyKey active Drive
SafelyDisplayed when MyKey® is active.
MyKey not Created Displayed during key programming when
MyKey® cannot be programmed.
Speed Limited to xx
MPH/km/hDisplayed when starting the vehicle and
MyKey® is in use and the MyKey speed limit
is on.
Near Vehicle Top
SpeedDisplayed when a MyKey® is in use and the
MyKey speed limit is on and the vehicle speed
is near the selected top speed.
Check Speed Drive
SafelyDisplayed when a MyKey® is in use and the
optional setting is on and the vehicle exceeds
a preselected speed.
Buckle Up to Unmute
AudioDisplayed when a MyKey® is in use and
Belt-Minder® is activated.
Could Not Program
Integrated KeyDisplayed when an attempt is made to
program a spare key using two existing
MyKeys.
Park Aid Messages Action / Description
Check Park Aid Displayed when the transmission is in R
(Reverse) and the park aid is disabled.
Check Rear Park Aid Displayed when the transmission is in R
(Reverse) and the park aid is disabled.
Rear Park Aid On Off Displays the rear park aid status.
136Information Displays
2015 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing, October 2014
USA(fus)

For more information regarding the interval at which you should replace
the cabin air filter, see theScheduled Maintenancechapter.
For additional cabin air filter information, or to replace the filter, see an
authorized dealer.
REMOTE START (IF EQUIPPED)
The remote start feature allows you to pre-condition the interior of your
vehicle. The climate control system works to achieve comfort according
to your previous settings.
Note:You cannot adjust the system during remote start operation.
Turn the ignition on to return the system to its previous settings. You
can now make adjustments normally, but you need to turn certain
vehicle-dependent features back on, such as:
•Heated seats.
•Cooled seats.
•Heated steering wheel.
•Heated mirrors.
•Heated rear window.
You can adjust the default remote start settings using the information
display controls. See theInformation Displayschapter.
Manual Climate Systems
In hot weather, the climate control system is set to MAX A/C.
In moderate weather, the system either heats or cools (based on
previous settings). The rear defroster and heated mirrors are not
automatically turned on.
In cold weather, maximum heat is provided in floor/defrost mode. The
rear defroster and heated mirrors are automatically turned on.
Automatic Settings
In hot weather, the system is set to 72°F (22°C). The cooled seats are set
to high (if available, and selected to AUTO in the information display).
In moderate weather, the system either heats or cools (based on
previous settings). The rear defroster, heated mirrors and heated seats
do not automatically turn on.
In cold weather, the system is set to 72°F (22°C). The heated seats are
set to high (if available, and selected to AUTO in the information
display). The rear defroster and heated mirrors automatically turn on.
148Climate Control
2015 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing, October 2014
USA(fus)

If the engine falls below 350 RPM while the cooled seats are on, the
feature will turn itself off. You will need to reactivate it.
Note:When the heated or cooled front seat is active, you will be able to
hear the fan operating inside the seat. This is normal.
Climate Controlled Seat Air Filter Replacement (If Equipped)
The climate controlled seat system includes air filters. You must replace
them periodically. See thescheduled maintenance information.
Locate the filters under each front seat and access them from the
second-row foot-well area. Move the front seats all the way forward and
to the full up positions to ease access.
To remove an air filter:
1. Turn the vehicle off.
2. Push up on the outside rigid edge
of the filter and rotate
counterclockwise once the tabs are
released, then remove the filter.
To install a filter:
1. First, position the filter in its
housing making sure that the far
forward end is all the way up in the
housing.
2. Push in on the center of the
outside edge of the filter and rotate
up into the housing until it clips
into position.
160Seats
2015 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing, October 2014
USA(fus)

Cleaning and Maintenance
Note:Condensation on the inside walls of the refrigerator is normal
under certain conditions.
This feature is maintenance free, but you can clean the inside of the unit
and the cover with a mild soap and water solution when needed.
OVERHEAD CONSOLE
The appearance of the overhead console will vary according to your
option package.
Press near the rear edge of the door
to open it.
180Storage Compartments
2015 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing, October 2014
USA(fus)

EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
WARNING:Do not park, idle, or drive your vehicle in dry grass
or other dry ground cover. The emission system heats up the
engine compartment and exhaust system, which can start a fire.
WARNING:Exhaust leaks may result in entry of harmful and
potentially lethal fumes into the passenger compartment. If you
smell exhaust fumes inside your vehicle, have your dealer inspect your
vehicle immediately. Do not drive if you smell exhaust fumes.
Your vehicle is equipped with various emission control components and a
catalytic converter which will enable your vehicle to comply with applicable
exhaust emission standards. To make sure that the catalytic converter and
other emission control components continue to work properly:
•Use only the specified fuel listed.
•Avoid running out of fuel.
•Do not turn off the ignition while your vehicle is moving, especially at
high speeds.
•Have the items listed inScheduled Maintenance Information
performed according to the specified schedule.
The scheduled maintenance items listed inScheduled Maintenance
Informationare essential to the life and performance of your vehicle
and to its emissions system.
If other than Ford, Motorcraft® or Ford-authorized parts are used for
maintenance replacements or for service of components affecting
emission control, such non-Ford parts should be equivalent to genuine
Ford Motor Company parts in performance and durability.
Illumination of the service engine soon indicator, charging system
warning light or the temperature warning light, fluid leaks, strange odors,
smoke or loss of engine power could indicate that the emission control
system is not working properly.
An improperly operating or damaged exhaust system may allow exhaust
to enter the vehicle. Have a damaged or improperly operating exhaust
system inspected and repaired immediately.
Do not make any unauthorized changes to your vehicle or engine. By
law, vehicle owners and anyone who manufactures, repairs, services,
sells, leases, trades vehicles, or supervises a fleet of vehicles are not
196Fuel and Refueling
2015 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing, October 2014
USA(fus)

Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) Testing
Some state, provincial and local governments may have
Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) programs to inspect the emission control
equipment on your vehicle. Failure to pass this inspection could prevent
you from getting a vehicle registration.
If the service engine soon indicator is on or the bulb does not
work, the vehicle may need to be serviced. SeeOn-board
Diagnostics (OBD-II)in this chapter.
Your vehicle may not pass the I/M test if the service engine soon
indicator is on or not working properly (bulb is burned out), or if the
OBD-II system has determined that some of the emission control systems
have not been properly checked. In this case, the vehicle is considered
not ready for I/M testing.
If the vehicle’s engine or transmission has just been serviced, or the
battery has recently run down or been replaced, the OBD-II system may
indicate that the vehicle is not ready for I/M testing. To determine if the
vehicle is ready for I/M testing, turn the ignition key to the on position
for 15 seconds without cranking the engine. If the service engine soon
indicator blinks eight times, it means that the vehicle is not ready for I/M
testing; if the service engine soon indicator stays on solid, it means that
the vehicle is ready for I/M testing.
The OBD-II system is designed to check the emission control system
during normal driving. A complete check may take several days. If the
vehicle is not ready for I/M testing, the following driving cycle consisting
of mixed city and highway driving may be performed:
15 minutes of steady driving on an expressway or highway followed by
20 minutes of stop-and-go driving with at least four 30-second idle
periods.
Allow the vehicle to sit for at least eight hours without starting the
engine. Then, start the engine and complete the above driving cycle. The
engine must warm up to its normal operating temperature. Once the
engine is started, do not turn off the engine until the above driving cycle
is complete. If the vehicle is still not ready for I/M testing, the above
driving cycle will have to be repeated.
198Fuel and Refueling
2015 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing, October 2014
USA(fus)

Make sure you allow sufficient distance between you and other vehicles
for stopping. Drive slower than usual and consider using one of the lower
gears. In emergency stopping situations, apply the brake steadily. Since
your vehicle is equipped with a four wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS),
do not “pump” the brakes. Refer to theBrakeschapter for additional
information on the operation of the anti-lock brake system.
Maintenance and Modifications
The suspension and steering systems on your vehicle have been designed
and tested to provide predictable performance whether loaded or empty
and durable load carrying capability. For this reason, Ford Motor
Company strongly recommends that you do not make modifications such
as adding or removing parts (such as lift kits or stabilizer bars) or by
using replacement parts not equivalent to the original factory equipment.
Any modifications to a vehicle that raise the center of gravity can make
it more likely the vehicle will rollover as a result of a loss of control.
Ford Motor Company recommends that caution be used with any vehicle
equipped with a high load or device (such as ladder or luggage racks).
Failure to maintain your vehicle properly may void the warranty, increase
your repair cost, reduce vehicle performance and operational capabilities
and adversely affect driver and passenger safety. Frequent inspection of
vehicle chassis components is recommended if the vehicle is subjected to
off-highway usage.
210All-Wheel Drive (If Equipped)
2015 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing, October 2014
USA(fus)

ESSENTIAL TOWING CHECKS
Follow these guidelines for safe towing:
•Do not tow a trailer until you drive your vehicle at least 1000 miles
(1600 kilometers).
•Consult your local motor vehicle laws for towing a trailer.
•See the instructions included with towing accessories for the proper
installation and adjustment specifications.
•Service your vehicle more frequently if you tow a trailer. See your
scheduled maintenance information.
•If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions the rental agency
gives you.
For load specification terms found on the tire label and Safety
Compliance label and for instructions on calculating your vehicle’s load,
refer toLoad limitin theLoad Carryingchapter.
Remember to account for the trailer tongue weight as part of your
vehicle load when calculating the total vehicle weight.
Trailer Towing Connector (Vehicles with a Trailer Towing Package
and 7–Pin Connector)
When attaching the trailer wiring connector to
your vehicle, only use a proper fitting connector
that works with the vehicle and trailer functions. If
your vehicle has a trailer towing package, it may
have a 7–pin connector. Some connectors may
have the SAE J2863 logo, which confirms that it is
the proper wiring connector and works correctly
with your vehicle.
Color Function
1. Yellow Left turn signal and stop lamp
2. White Ground (-)
3. Blue Electric brakes
4. Green Right turn signal and stop lamp
5. Orange Battery (+)
6. Brown Running lights
7. Grey Reverse lights
Towing259
2015 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing, October 2014
USA(fus)

BREAKING-IN
You need to break in new tires for approximately 300 miles
(480 kilometers). During this time, your vehicle may exhibit some unique
driving characteristics. Avoid driving too fast during the first 1000 miles
(1600 kilometers). Vary your speed frequently and change up through
the gears early. Do not labor the engine. Do not tow during the first
1000 miles (1600 kilometers).
ECONOMICAL DRIVING
Fuel economy is affected by several things, such as how you drive, the
conditions you drive under and how you maintain your vehicle.
There are some things to keep in mind that may improve your fuel economy:
•Accelerate and slow down in a smooth, moderate fashion.
•Drive at steady speeds without stopping.
•Anticipate stops; slowing down may eliminate the need to stop.
•Combine errands and minimize stop-and-go driving.
•Close the windows for high-speed driving.
•Drive at reasonable speeds (traveling at 55 mph [88 km/h] uses 15%
less fuel than traveling at 65 mph [105 km/h]).
•Keep the tires properly inflated and use only the recommended size.
•Use the recommended engine oil.
•Perform all regularly scheduled maintenance.
There are also some things you may not want to do because they may
reduce your fuel economy:
•Sudden or hard accelerations.
•Rev the engine before turning it off.
•Idle for periods longer than one minute.
•Warm up your vehicle on cold mornings.
•Use the air conditioner or front defroster.
•Use the speed control in hilly terrain.
•Rest your foot on the brake pedal while driving.
•Drive a heavily loaded vehicle or tow a trailer.
•Carry unnecessary weight (approximately 1 mpg [0.4 km/L] is lost for
every 400 pounds [180 kilograms] of weight carried).
Driving Hints267
2015 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing, October 2014
USA(fus)

GETTING THE SERVICES YOU NEED
Warranty repairs to your vehicle must be performed by an authorized
dealer. While any authorized dealer handling your vehicle line will
provide warranty service, we recommend you return to your selling
authorized dealer who wants to ensure your continued satisfaction.
Please note that certain warranty repairs require special training,
equipment or both, so not all authorized dealers are authorized to perform
all warranty repairs. This means that, depending on the warranty repair
needed, you may have to take your vehicle to another authorized dealer.
A reasonable time must be allowed to perform a repair after taking your
vehicle to the authorized dealer. Repairs will be made using Ford or Motorcraft
parts, or remanufactured or other parts that are authorized by Ford.
Away from Home
If you are away from home when your vehicle needs service, contact the
Ford Customer Relationship Center or use the online resources listed
below to find the nearest authorized dealer.
In the United States:
Mailing Address
Ford Motor Company
Customer Relationship Center
P.O. Box 6248
Dearborn, MI 48121
Telephone
1-800-392-3673 (FORD)
(TDD for the hearing impaired: 1-800-232-5952)
Online
Additional information and resources are available online at
www.fordowner.com.
These are some of the items that can be found online:
•U.S. Dealer Locator by Dealer Name, City/State, or Zip Code
•Owner Manuals
•Maintenance Schedules
•Recalls
•Ford Extended Service Plans
•Ford Genuine Accessories
•Service specials and promotions.
276Customer Assistance
2015 Flex(471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing, October 2014
USA(fus)