maintenance LINCOLN AVIATOR 2023 Owner's Manual

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 (ABS), do not “pump” the brakes. See
Hints on Driving With Anti-Lock Brakes
(page 272).
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, we strongly
recommend that you do not make
modifications such as adding or removing
parts (such as lowering 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. We strongly recommend 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
could 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.
270
All-Wheel Drive (If Equipped)

Note:If your vehicle has a navigation
system, stored speed sign data could
influence the indicated speed limit value.To switch the system off or to adjust the
settings, use the touchscreen:
1. Press Settings on the touchscreen.
2. Press Driver Assistance.3. Press Speed Sign Recognition.
4. Press Speed Warning.
5. Press Tolerance.
6. Use + and - to set the tolerance.
Information Messages
Action Message
The traffic sign data provided by the navigation system is unavailable
due to a weak signal, or no signal. Wait for a short period of time for
the signal to improve. If the message continues to appear, have your
vehicle checked as soon as possible. Traffic Sign Reduced Performance See Manual
STEERING
Electric Power Steering
WARNING: The electric power
steering system has diagnostic checks that
continuously monitor the system. If a fault
is detected, a message displays in the
information display. Stop your vehicle as
soon as it is safe to do so. Switch the
ignition off. After at least 10 seconds,
switch the ignition on and watch the
information display for a steering system
warning message. If a steering system
warning message returns, have the system
checked as soon as possible.WARNING: If the system detects an
error, you may not feel a difference in the
steering, however a serious condition may
exist. Have your vehicle checked as soon
as possible. Failure to do so may result in
loss of steering control.
Your vehicle has an electric power steering
system. There is no fluid reservoir and
therefore requires no maintenance.
336
Driving Aids

Special Loading Instructions for
Owners of Pick-up Trucks and Utility-
type Vehicles
WARNING: When loading the
roof racks, we recommend you evenly
distribute the load, as well as maintain
a low center of gravity. Loaded
vehicles, with higher centers of gravity,
may handle differently than unloaded
vehicles. Take extra precautions, such
as slower speeds and increased
stopping distance, when driving a
heavily loaded vehicle.
AIR SUSPENSION (IF EQUIPPED)
WARNING: If your vehicle has
self-leveling air suspension, you must
switch the system off before carrying out
any maintenance or repair. Failure to follow
this warning could result in serious
personal injury or death.The air suspension system automatically
adjusts to maintain a constant frame height,
allows for ease of vehicle loading, provides
improved vehicle ride, and increased driver
comfort.
You can adjust different ride settings through
the selectable drive modes. See Selecting
a Drive Mode (page 343).
Note:The air suspension system may not
operate properly if you exceed the load limit.
See Load Limit (page 348).
Note:When your vehicle is off, the air
compressor may run for a short time. This is
normal.
Switching the systems on or off
You can access the air suspension, liftgate
and easy entry features through the
information display menu settings. See
General Information (page 136).
Using the Service Mode
When the service mode is active, the air
suspension does not make any adjustments
while your vehicle is stationary.Note:Always switch the air suspension
service mode to on before servicing your
vehicle.
Using Cargo Loading
The air suspension cargo loading feature
lowers your vehicle for easier access when
the system detects the liftgate is opening.
When the liftgate is closed your vehicle
returns to its normal height after a short time.
Note:To preserve your vehicle battery, your
vehicle may only lower for cargo mode one
to two times per ignition cycle.
Using Easy Entry
The air suspension can lower your vehicle
to an easier access entry height when the
system detects the intelligent access key,
you press the unlock button, use the remote
start, or use Phone as a Key.
The leveling process stops when you open
a door or the target level is achieved.
Note:To stop the leveling process, press the
lock button on the intelligent access key.
352
Load Carrying

ESSENTIAL TOWING CHECKS
Follow these guidelines for safe towing:
• Do not tow a trailer until you drive your
vehicle at least 1,000 mi (1,600 km).
• 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 Scheduled
Maintenance (page 579).
• If you use a rental trailer, follow the
instructions the rental agency gives you.
You can find information on load
specification terms found on the tire label
and Safety Compliance label as well as
instructions on calculating your vehicle's load
in the Load Carrying chapter. See Load Limit
(page 348).
Remember to account for the trailer tongue
weight as part of your vehicle load when
calculating the total vehicle weight.
Hitches
Do not use a hitch that either clamps onto
the bumper or attaches to the axle.
Distribute the trailer load so 10-15% of the
total trailer weight is on the tongue.
A weight distributing hitch is not required for
your vehicle.
Safety Chains
Note:Do not attach safety chains to the
bumper.
Always connect the safety chains to the hook
retainers of your vehicle hitch.
To connect the trailer’s safety chains, cross
them under the trailer tongue and allow
enough slack for turning tight corners. Do
not allow the chains to drag on the ground.
Trailer Brakes
WARNING: Do not connect a trailer's
hydraulic brake system directly to your
vehicle's brake system. Your vehicle may
not have enough braking power and your
chances of having a collision greatly
increase.
Electric brakes and manual, automatic or
surge-type trailer brakes are safe if you install
them properly and adjust them to the
manufacturer's specifications. The trailer
brakes must meet local and federal
regulations.
The rating for the tow vehicle's braking
system operation is at the gross vehicle
weight rating, not the gross combined weight
rating.
Safe control of towed vehicles requires
separate functioning brake systems for
vehicles and trailers weighing more than
1,500 lb (680 kg) when loaded.
357
Towing

REDUCED ENGINE PERFORMANCE
WARNING: If you continue to drive
your vehicle when the engine is
overheating, the engine could stop without
warning. Failure to follow this instruction
could result in the loss of control of your
vehicle.
If the engine coolant temperature gauge
needle moves to the upper limit position, the
engine is overheating. See Gauges (page
128).
You must only drive your vehicle for a short
distance if the engine overheats. The
distance you can travel depends on ambient
temperature, vehicle load and terrain. The
engine continues to operate with limited
power for a short period of time.
If the engine temperature continues to rise,
the fuel supply to the engine reduces. The
air conditioning switches off and the engine
cooling fan operates continually.1. Gradually reduce your speed and stop
your vehicle as soon as it is safe to do
so.
2. Immediately switch the engine off to
prevent severe engine damage.
3. Wait for the engine to cool down.
4. Check the coolant level. See Engine
Coolant Check (page 404).
5. Have your vehicle checked as soon as
possible.
COLD WEATHER PRECAUTIONS
The functional operation of some
components and systems can be affected at
temperatures below approximately -13°F
(-25°C).
BREAKING-IN
You need to break in new tires for
approximately 300 mi (480 km). During this
time, your vehicle may exhibit some unusual
driving characteristics.
DRIVING ECONOMICALLY
The following helps to improve fuel
consumption:
• Drive smoothly, accelerate gently and
anticipate the road ahead to avoid heavy
braking.
• Regularly check your tire pressures and
make sure that they are inflated to the
correct pressure.
• Follow the recommended maintenance
schedule and carry out the
recommended checks.
• Plan your journey and check the traffic
before you set off. It is more efficient to
combine errands into a single trip
whenever possible.
• Avoid idling the engine in cold weather
or for extended periods. Start the engine
only when you are ready to set off.
• Do not carry unnecessary weight in your
vehicle as extra weight wastes fuel.
361
Driving Hints

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 provides 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 and equipment, 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 are made
using Lincoln or Motorcraft parts, or
remanufactured or other parts that are
authorized by Lincoln.
Away From Home
If you are away from home when your vehicle
needs service, contact the Lincoln Client
Relationship Center or use the online
resources listed below to find the nearest
authorized dealer.
In the United States:
Mailing address
Lincoln
Client Relationship Center
P.O. Box 6248
Dearborn, MI 48126
Telephone
1-800-521-4140
TDD for the hearing impaired:
7-1-1 (where offered by your telephone
service provider)Web Address
www.LincolnOwner.com
These are some of the items that can be
found online:
• United States dealer locator by Dealer
Name, City, State or ZIP Code.
• Owner Manuals.
• Maintenance Schedules.
• Recalls.
• Lincoln Extended Service Plans.
• Lincoln Original Accessories.
• Service specials and promotions.
In Canada:
Mailing address
Lincoln Client Relationship Centre
Lincoln of Canada, Limited
P.O. Box 2000
Oakville, Ontario L6K 1C8
Telephone
373
Customer Assistance

GENERAL INFORMATION
Have your vehicle serviced regularly to help
maintain its roadworthiness and resale value.
There is a large network of authorized
dealers that are there to help you with their
professional servicing expertise. We believe
that their specially trained technicians are
best qualified to service your vehicle properly
and expertly. They are supported by a wide
range of highly specialized tools developed
specifically for servicing your vehicle.
If your vehicle requires professional service,
an authorized dealer can provide the
necessary parts and service. Check your
warranty information to find out which parts
and services are covered.
Use only recommended fuels, lubricants,
fluids and service parts conforming to
specifications. Motorcraft® parts are
designed and built to provide the best
performance in your vehicle.
Precautions
• Do not work on a hot engine.
• Make sure that nothing gets caught in
moving parts.
• Do not work on a vehicle with the engine
running in an enclosed space, unless you
are sure you have enough ventilation.
• Keep all open flames and other burning
material (such as cigarettes) away from
the battery and all fuel related parts.
Working with the Engine Off
1. Set the parking brake and shift the
transmission to park (P).
2. Switch off the engine.
3. Block the wheels.
Working with the Engine On
WARNING: To reduce the risk of
vehicle damage and personal burn injuries,
do not start your engine with the air
cleaner removed and do not remove it
while the engine is running.1. Set the parking brake and shift the
transmission to park (P).
2. Block the wheels.
OPENING AND CLOSING THE
HOOD
Opening the Hood
E263274
1. Open the left-hand front door.
2. Fully pull the hood release lever and let
it completely retract.
398
Maintenance

Note:This action releases the hood latch.
3. Fully pull the hood release lever for a
second time.
Note:This action fully releases the hood.
4. Open the hood.
Note:There is no secondary lever under the
hood.Closing the Hood
WARNING: Make sure that you fully
latch the hood before driving. Failure to
follow this instruction could result in
personal injury or death.1. For vehicles with a prop rod, fully stow
the prop rod prior to lowering the hood.
2. Lower the hood and make sure it fully
latches.
399
Maintenance

UNDER HOOD OVERVIEW
E288092
Battery. See Changing the 12V Battery (page 410). A
Engine oil filler cap. See Engine Oil Check (page 401). B
Engine oil dipstick. See Engine Oil Dipstick (page 401). C
400
Maintenance

Brake fluid reservoir. See Brake Fluid Check (page 409). D
Engine compartment fuse box. See Fuses (page 382). E
Engine coolant reservoir. See Engine Coolant Check (page 404). F
Air filter assembly. See Changing the Engine Air Filter (page 402). G
Washer fluid reservoir. See Washer Fluid Check (page 417). H
ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK
E250320E250320
Minimum. A
Nominal. B
Maximum. C
ENGINE OIL CHECK
1. Make sure that your vehicle is on level
ground.
2. Check the oil before starting the engine
or switch the engine off and wait 10
minutes for the oil to drain into the oil
pan.
3. Remove the dipstick and wipe it with a
clean, lint-free cloth.
4. Reinstall the dipstick and make sure it is
fully seated. Remove it again to check
the oil level.
5. If the oil level is between the maximum
and minimum marks, the oil level is
acceptable. Do not add oil.6. If the oil level is at the minimum mark,
immediately add oil.
7. Reinstall the dipstick. Make sure it is fully
seated.
Note:The oil consumption of new engines
reaches its normal level after approximately
3,000 mi (5,000 km).
Adding Engine Oil
WARNING: Do not remove the filler
cap when the engine is running.
WARNING: Do not add engine oil
when the engine is hot. Failure to follow
this instruction could result in personal
injury.
401
Maintenance