transmission LINCOLN MKZ HYBRID 2011 Owners Manual

Locks and Security 108
Keys 108
Locks 113
Anti-theft system 126
Seating and Safety Restraints 133
Seating 133
Safety restraints 144
Airbags 158
Child restraints 173
Tires, Wheels and Loading 191
Tire information 191
Tire inflation 193
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) 206
Vehicle loading 210
Trailer towing 216
Recreational towing 217
Driving 218
Starting 218
Brakes 222
AdvanceTrac225
Transmission operation 232
Reverse sensing system 233
Rear-view camera system 235
Roadside Emergencies 246
Getting roadside assistance 246
Hazard flasher switch 247
Fuel pump shut-off 248
Fuses and relays 248
Changing tires 256
Wheel lug nut torque 262
Jump starting 263
Wrecker towing 266
Table of Contents
2
2011 MKZ Hybrid(hkz)
Owners Guide, 2nd Printing
USA(fus)

Normal vehicle operation
Starting:Turn the ignition key to
the start position while your vehicle
is in P (Park). The green “Ready
Indicator” light will appear in the
instrument cluster, letting you know
that the vehicle is ready for driving. The engine may not start because
this Hybrid vehicle is equipped with Silent Key Start (SKS). This fuel
saving feature allows your vehicle to be “ready to drive” without
requiring the gas engine to be running. This indicator will remain on
while the vehicle is on, whether the engine is running or not to indicate
the vehicle is capable of movement (using its electric motor, engine, or
both). The vehicle’s computer will determine if an engine start is
required. Typically, the engine will not start unless the vehicle is cold, a
climate control change is requested, or the accelerator is depressed.
Note:You may notice higher engine speeds upon start-up. This
temporary condition is normal and necessary to heat up the cabin and
minimize emissions.
Driving:The gas engine automatically starts and stops to provide power
when it’s needed and to save fuel when it’s not. While coasting at low
speeds, coming to a stop, or standing, the gas engine normally shuts
down and the vehicle operates in electric-only mode. Conditions that
may cause the engine to start up or remain running include:
•Considerable vehicle acceleration
•Vehicle speed above 47 mph (75 km/h)
•Ascending a hill
•Charge level of high voltage battery is low
•Very high or low outside temperature (to provide system
cooling/heating)
•Engine not warm enough to provide passenger requested cabin
temperature
Stopping:The gas engine may shut off to conserve fuel as you come to
a stop. Restarting the vehicle is not required. Simply step on the
accelerator when you are ready to drive.
Transmission Operation:Due to the technologically advanced,
electronically-controlled Continuously Variable Transaxle (eCVT) you will
not feel shift changes like those of a non-hybrid vehicle. Your hybrid’s
transmission is designed to do its work seamlessly.
Introduction
6
2011 MKZ Hybrid(hkz)
Owners Guide, 2nd Printing
USA(fus)

Since engine speed is controlled by the transmission, it may seem
elevated at times. This is normal hybrid operation and helps
deliver fuel efficiency and performance.
Neutral:It is not recommended to idle the vehicle in N (Neutral) for
extended periods of time because this will discharge your high voltage
battery and decrease fuel economy. Because of the unique nature of the
hybrid vehicle, the engine will not start in the N (Neutral) position. Also,
the engine cannot provide power to the hybrid system in N (Neutral).
Low Gear:L (Low gear) is designed to mimic the enhanced engine
braking available in non-hybrid vehicles. L (Low gear) will produce high
engine speeds to provide necessary engine braking. This is normal and
will not damage your vehicle. In L (Low gear) the gas engine will remain
on more often than in D (Drive gear).
Reverse:R (Reverse gear) vehicle speed is limited to 22 mph
(35 km/h).
Unique Hybrid operating characteristics
Your Hybrid, with its new technology, behaves differently compared to a
non-hybrid. Here is a description of the major differences:
Battery:Your Hybrid is equipped with a high voltage battery. A cool
battery ensures battery life and provides the best possible performance.
Your hybrid high voltage battery may periodically re-condition itself to
ensure maximum efficiency. You may notice slight changes in drivability
during this process, but it’s an important part of your hybrid’s high
voltage battery optimization features.
The high voltage battery is cooled by cabin air drawn from vent holes in
the front of the rear seat cushions. Avoid placing objects at the vent
holes which block air flow to the high voltage battery.
The high voltage battery is located between the rear passenger seat and
the trunk. Due to this location, the rear seat for the hybrid vehicle does
not have the ability to be lowered to allow pass-through between the
trunk and the rear of the passenger compartment. Do not attempt to
lower the rear seat.
If the vehicle is left inoperative for over 31 days, it may be necessary to
jumpstart the vehicle. For more information, refer toJump starting
(Low voltage [underhood] battery only)in theRoadside Emergencies
chapter and also refer toLow and high voltage battery — storagein
theMaintenance and Specificationschapter.
Introduction
7
2011 MKZ Hybrid(hkz)
Owners Guide, 2nd Printing
USA(fus)

Engine:The engine speed in your hybrid is not directly tied to your
vehicle speed. Your vehicle’s engine and transmission are designed to
deliver the power you need at the most efficient engine speed. During
heavy accelerations, your hybrid may reach high engine speeds (up to
6000 RPM). This is characteristic of the Atkinson cycle engine
technology helping to maximize your hybrid’s fuel economy.
In prolonged mountainous driving, you may see the engine tachometer
changing without your input. This is intentional and maintains the
battery charge level. You may also notice during extended downhill
driving that your engine continues to run instead of shutting off.
During this “engine braking”, the engine stays on, but it’s not using any
fuel. You may also hear a slight whine or whistle when operating your
vehicle. This is the normal operation of the electric generator in the
hybrid system.
During certain events (such as vehicle servicing) your low voltage
(underhood) battery may become disconnected or disabled. When this
occurs, and after reconnecting the low voltage (underhood) battery and
driving the vehicle, the engine may continue to operate for 3-5 seconds
after the key is turned to the off position. This is a normal condition, as
the vehicle’s computers are relearning the operating characteristics of
your particular engine in order to operate it at maximum efficiency.
Braking:Your hybrid is equipped with standard hydraulic braking and
regenerative braking. Regenerative braking is performed by your
transmission and it captures brake energy and stores it in your high
voltage battery.
Driving to optimize fuel economy
Your fuel economy should improve throughout your hybrid’s break-in
period. As with any vehicle, fuel economy can be significantly impacted
by your driving habits and accessory usage. For best results, keep in
mind these tips:
Tire Inflation:Keep tires properly inflated and only use recommended
size.
Drive Habits:Aggressive driving increases the amount of energy
required to move your vehicle. In general, better fuel economy is
achieved with mild to moderate acceleration and deceleration. Moderate
braking is particularly important since it allows you to maximize the
energy captured by the regenerative braking system.
NOTE:Having your engine running is not always an indication of
inefficiency – in some cases it is actually more efficient than driving in
electric mode.
Introduction
8
2011 MKZ Hybrid(hkz)
Owners Guide, 2nd Printing
USA(fus)

Additional Tips:
•Do not carry extra loads
•Be mindful of adding external accessories that may increase
aerodynamic drag
•Observe posted speed limits
•Perform all scheduled maintenance
•There is no need to wait for your engine to “warm up”. The vehicle is
ready to drive immediately after starting
Refer toEssentials of good fuel economyinMaintenance and
Specificationschapter for more fuel saving tips.
Frequently asked questions
Question Answer
What are the series
of clicks from the
cargo area when I
first turn the key in
the ignition?The high voltage battery is electrically isolated
from the rest of the vehicle when the key is off.
When the key is turned to on, high voltage
contactors inside the battery are closed to make
the electricity available to the motor/generator
and enable the vehicle to drive. The clicks are
the sound of these contactors as they close and
open during start up and shut down.
Why does the engine
sometimes start at
key-on?The vehicle’s computer will determine if an
engine start is required at key-on. Silent Key
Start (SKS) will start the engine if it is
necessary for cabin heating, windshield defrost,
or if the outside temperature is low.
Why does it take a
long time before the
engine shuts down?There are several reasons the engine stays on for
an extended amount of time when it is first
started. One common reason is to ensure that
the emissions components are warm enough to
minimize tailpipe emissions. As the climate gets
cooler, this “engine-ON” time is extended.
Why does my engine
never shut down
above 47 mph
(75 km/h)?The engine is required to turn on above this
speed to protect the transmission hardware.
Introduction
9
2011 MKZ Hybrid(hkz)
Owners Guide, 2nd Printing
USA(fus)

Question Answer
Why does my engine
stay ON when it’s
extremely cold
outside?In order to ensure that the climate control
system can begin heating the cabin and/or
defrosting the windshield as soon as a driver
requests it, the engine coolant temperature has
to be kept sufficiently hot. Keeping the engine
on is required to maintain the correct minimum
temperature.
Why does my engine
revupsohigh
sometimes when I
accelerate?Your vehicle’s engine and transmission are
designed to deliver the power you need at the
most efficient engine speed. This may be higher
than expected during heavy accelerations, and
may fluctuate during steady state driving. These
are characteristics of the Atkinson engine cycle
and the eCVT transmission technology that help
maximize your hybrid’s fuel economy.
What is the fan noise
I hear from the rear
of my hybrid?The fan noise comes from a fan located inside
the high voltage battery. This fan turns on when
the battery requires cooling air. The fan speed,
and associated noise level, will change according
to the amount of cooling required to maintain
good performance. Maintaining the battery
temperature at optimal conditions also prolongs
the useful life of the battery and helps to
achieve better fuel economy.
HowfarcanIgoin
Electric Drive if I
run out of gas?Running out of gas is not recommended.
However, you may be able to go about one mile,
driving at 30 mph (48 km/h), if the battery has a
normal state of charge.
What is the engine
oil change service
interval?The engine oil should be changed every
10,000 miles (16,000 km) under normal
operating conditions. See theScheduled
Maintenance Guidechapter.
Introduction
10
2011 MKZ Hybrid(hkz)
Owners Guide, 2nd Printing
USA(fus)

WARNING LIGHTS AND CHIMES
Warning lights and gauges can alert you to a vehicle condition that may
become serious enough to cause extensive repairs. A warning light may
illuminate when a problem exists with one of your vehicle’s functions.
Many lights will illuminate when you start your vehicle to make sure the
bulbs work. If any light remains on after starting the vehicle, refer to the
respective system light explanation later in this section for additional
information.
Note:Some warning lights are reconfigurable telltale (RTT) indicators;
they will display in the message center and function the same as the
warning light, but they will not display on startup as regular warning
lights do.
Service engine soon:The service
engine soon light illuminates when
the ignition is turned to the on
position to check the bulb.
•Illuminates with key on, vehicle off:If the light illuminates, the
service engine soon light is working properly.
•Illuminates with key on, vehicle off, then starts to blink:The
light illuminates when the ignition is turned to the on position to
check the bulb and to indicate whether the vehicle is ready for
Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing. If after 15 seconds the service
engine soon light blinks eight times, it means that the vehicle is not
ready for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing. This can occur if the
vehicle’s engine or transmission has just been serviced, or the battery
OFF
456miles tompg:avg
57 1.H
C
0000000.0mi
0000.0miTrip A
P
R
N
D
L
0
0 20 405060
100
120
140
160
180
10 2030405060
70
80
90
100
110
120
km/h
MPH
F
EMPG60
40
20
0H
LPOWER
EV
Instrument Cluster
18
2011 MKZ Hybrid(hkz)
Owners Guide, 2nd Printing
USA(fus)

has recently run down or been disconnected. If the vehicle does not
need I/M testing, do nothing. The vehicle is designed to check the
emission control system during normal driving. If the vehicle needs
I/M testing, refer to theReadiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M)
testingsection in theMaintenance and Specificationschapter.
•Illuminates with engine running:The light stays on after the
engine is started. It indicates that the on board diagnostics system has
detected a problem with the engine, transmission or an
emission-related component or system. Contact your authorized dealer
as soon as possible. The vehicle will usually be drivable and will not
require towing. Refer toOn-board diagnostics (OBD-II)section in
theMaintenance and Specificationschapter for information on
temporary malfunctions that may not require vehicle service.
•Blinks with engine running:The light stays on after the engine is
started and sometimes blinks. It indicates that the On Board
Diagnostics System has detected an engine misfire problem with the
engine. While the light is blinking, engine misfire is occurring which
could damage your catalytic converter. Drive in a moderate fashion
(avoid heavy acceleration and deceleration) and contact your
authorized dealer as soon as possible.
WARNING:Under engine misfire conditions, excessive exhaust
temperatures could damage the catalytic converter, the fuel
system, interior floor coverings or other vehicle components, possibly
causing a fire.
Brake system warning:To confirm
the brake system warning light is
functional, it will momentarily
illuminate when the ignition is
turned to the on position (when the
engine is not running), or in a position between on and start, or by
applying the parking brake when the ignition is turned to the on
position. If the brake system warning light does not illuminate at this
time, contact your authorized dealer as soon as possible. Illumination
after releasing the parking brake indicates low brake fluid level or brake
system malfunction. Contact your authorized dealer as soon as possible.
P!
BRAKE
Instrument Cluster
19
2011 MKZ Hybrid(hkz)
Owners Guide, 2nd Printing
USA(fus)

Accessory power gauge
(empower instrument cluster
level only):This gauge indicates
electrical power demands from your
vehicle’s accessory systems.
Accessories such as air conditioning,
headlights, and radio use power but
do not contribute to propelling the
vehicle. The higher the level
indication on this gauge, the more
accessory power is being used. You
can see the level of this gauge change by turning accessories on and off.
Vehicle power gauge (empower
instrument cluster only):When
the transmission is in a drive gear
only, this gauge shows you vehicle
power demand and gasoline engine
on/off threshold. It is designed to
show you how close you are to the
gasoline engine on/off threshold and
how much power you are requesting
by how much you press on the
accelerator pedal.
The red level indicator shows vehicle power demand. The more you
press on the accelerator pedal, the more power you demand of the
vehicle. The green box shows the gasoline engine on/off threshold. If
vehicle power demand is reduced, the gasoline engine will turn off when
the red level indicator moves below the green box. In this case, the
hybrid system is operating in electric vehicle mode andEVis displayed
at the bottom of the gauge. When the red level indicator exceeds the
threshold, the system commands the gasoline engine on (and theEV
disappears).
When the gasoline engine is on for reasons outside of your control (such
as warming up the system or charging a low battery), the gasoline engine
on/off threshold (green box) disappears. When the on/off threshold box
is not displayed, the gasoline engine will not turn off regardless of how
little power you demand (even lifting your foot off of the accelerator).
Instrument Cluster
35
2011 MKZ Hybrid(hkz)
Owners Guide, 2nd Printing
USA(fus)

POWER STEERING ASSIST FAULT— The power steering system
has disabled power steering assist due to a system error, service is
required.
SERVICE POWER STEERING— The power steering system has
detected a condition that requires service.
SERVICE POWER STEERING NOW— The power steering system
has detected a condition within the power steering system that requires
service immediately.
SERVICE ADVANCETRAC— Displayed when the AdvanceTrac
system has detected a condition that requires service.
DRIVER DOOR AJAR— Displayed when the driver’s door is not
completely closed.
PASSENGER DOOR AJAR— Displayed when the passenger side door
is not completely closed.
REAR LEFT DOOR AJAR— Displayed when the rear left door is not
completely closed.
REAR RIGHT DOOR AJAR— Displayed when the rear right door is
not completely closed.
CHECK FUEL FILL INLET— Displayed when the fuel fill inlet may
not be properly closed. Refer toEasy Fuel™ “no cap” fuel systemin
theMaintenance and Specificationschapter.
FUEL LEVEL LOW— Displayed as an early reminder of a low fuel
condition.
BRAKE FLUID LEVEL LOW— Indicates the brake fluid level is low
and the brake system should be inspected immediately. Refer toBrake
fluidin theMaintenance and Specificationschapter.
CHECK PARK AID (if equipped)— Displayed when the transmission
is in R (Reverse) and the Reverse Sensing System (Park Aid) is disabled.
Refer toReverse Sensing System (Park Aid)in this section to enable.
LOW TIRE PRESSURE— Displayed when one or more tires on your
vehicle have low tire pressure. Refer toInflating your tiresin theTires,
Wheels and Loadingchapter.
TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR FAULT— Displayed when the tire
pressure monitoring system is malfunctioning. If the warning stays on or
continues to come on, contact your authorized dealer as soon as
possible.
Instrument Cluster
48
2011 MKZ Hybrid(hkz)
Owners Guide, 2nd Printing
USA(fus)