suspension Mercury Mariner Hybrid 2009 Owner's Manuals

WARNING:Only use replacement tires and wheels that are the
same size, load index, speed rating and type (such as P-metric
versus LT-metric or all-season versus all-terrain) as those originally
provided by Ford. The recommended tire and wheel size may be found
on either the Safety Compliance Certification Label or the Tire Label
which is located on the B-Pillar or edge of the driver’s door. If this
information is not found on these labels then you should consult your
Ford dealer. Use of any tire or wheel not recommended by Ford can
affect the safety and performance of your vehicle, which could result in
an increased risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal
injury and death. Additionally the use of non-recommended tires and
wheels could cause steering, suspension, axle or transfer case/power
transfer unit failure. If you have questions regarding tire replacement,
see an authorized dealer.
WARNING:When mounting replacement tires and wheels, you
should not exceed the maximum pressure indicated on the
sidewall of the tire to set the beads without additional precautions
listed below. If the beads do not seat at the maximum pressure
indicated, re-lubricate and try again.
When inflating the tire for mounting pressures up to 20 psi greater
than the maximum pressure on the tire sidewall, the following
precautions must be taken to protect the person mounting the tire:
1. Make sure that you have the correct tire and wheel size.
2. Lubricate the tire bead and wheel bead seat area again.
3. Stand at a minimum of 12 feet away from the tire wheel assembly.
4. Use both eye and ear protection.
For a mounting pressure more than 20 psi greater than the maximum
pressure, a Ford Dealer or other tire service professional should do the
mounting.
Always inflate steel carcass tires with a remote air fill with the person
inflating standing at a minimum of 12 ft. away from the tire wheel
assembly.
Important:Remember to replace the valve stems when the road tires
are replaced on your vehicle.
It is recommended that the two front tires or two rear tires generally be
replaced as a pair.
2009 Mariner Hybrid(mhv)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
173

Tire and wheel alignment
A bad jolt from hitting a curb or pothole can cause the front end of your
vehicle to become misaligned or cause damage to your tires. If your
vehicle seems to pull to one side when you’re driving, the wheels may be
out of alignment. Have an authorized dealer check the wheel alignment
periodically.
Wheel misalignment in the front or the rear can cause uneven and rapid
treadwear of your tires and should be corrected by an authorized dealer.
Front wheel drive (FWD) vehicles and those with an independent rear
suspension (if equipped) may require alignment of all four wheels.
The tires should also be balanced periodically. An unbalanced tire and
wheel assembly may result in irregular tire wear.
Tire rotation
Rotating your tires at the recommended interval (as indicated in the
scheduled maintenance informationthat comes with your vehicle) will
help your tires wear more evenly, providing better tire performance and
longer tire life.
•Front Wheel Drive (FWD)
vehicles (front tires at top of
diagram)
2009 Mariner Hybrid(mhv)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
175

SNOW TIRES AND CABLES
WARNING:Snow tires must be the same size, load index, speed
rating as those originally provided by Ford. Use of any tire or
wheel not recommended by Ford can affect the safety and
performance of your vehicle, which could result in an increased risk of
loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.
Additionally, the use of non-recommended tires and wheels could
cause steering, suspension, axle or transfer case/power transfer unit
failure.
The tires on your vehicle have all weather treads to provide traction in
rain and snow. However, in some climates, you may need to use snow
tires and cables. If you need to use cables, it is recommended that steel
wheels (of the same size and specifications) be used, as cables may chip
aluminum wheels.
Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and traction devices:
•SAE class “S” cables should ONLY be used on the front axle for
P235/70R16 tires.
•Install cables securely, verifying that the cables do not touch any
wiring, brake lines or fuel lines.
•Drive cautiously. If you hear the cables rub or bang against the
vehicle, stop and retighten them. If this does not work, remove the
cables to prevent vehicle damage.
•Avoid overloading your vehicle.
•Remove the cables when they are no longer needed.
•Do not use cables on dry roads.
•Do not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h) with tire cables on your vehicle.
Consult your authorized dealer for information on other Ford Motor
Company approved methods of traction control.
VEHICLE LOADING – WITH AND WITHOUT A TRAILER
This section will guide you in the proper loading of your vehicle and/or
trailer, to keep your loaded vehicle weight within its design rating
capability, with or without a trailer. Properly loading your vehicle will
provide maximum return of vehicle design performance. Before loading
your vehicle, familiarize yourself with the following terms for determining
2009 Mariner Hybrid(mhv)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
186

TRAILER TOWING
Trailer towing with your vehicle may require the use of a trailer tow
option package.
Trailer towing puts additional loads on your vehicle’s engine,
transmission, axle, brakes, tires, and suspension. For your safety and to
maximize vehicle performance, be sure to use the proper equipment
while towing.
Follow these guidelines to ensure safe towing procedure:
•Stay within your vehicle’s load limits.
•Thoroughly prepare your vehicle for towing. Refer toPreparing to
towin this chapter.
•Use extra caution when driving while trailer towing. Refer toDriving
while you towin this chapter.
•Service your vehicle more frequently if you tow a trailer. Refer to the
severe duty schedule in the scheduled maintenance guide.
•Do not tow a trailer until your vehicle has been driven at least
1,000 miles (1609 km).
•Refer to the instructions included with towing accessories for the
proper installation and adjustment specifications.
Do not exceed the maximum loads listed on the Certification label. For
load specification terms found on the label, refer toVehicle loadingin
this chapter. Remember to figure in the tongue load of your loaded
trailer when figuring the total weight.
2009 Mariner Hybrid(mhv)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
193

Pull the release lever to release the
brake. Driving with the parking
brake on will cause the brakes to
wear out quickly and reduce fuel
economy.
ADVANCETRACWITH ROLL STABILITY CONTROL™ (RSC)
STABILITY ENHANCEMENT SYSTEM
WARNING:Vehicle modifications involving braking system,
aftermarket roof racks, suspension, steering system, tire
construction and/or wheel/tire size may change the handling
characteristics of the vehicle and may adversely affect the the
performance of the AdvanceTracwith RSCsystem. In addition,
installing any stereo loudspeakers may interfere with and adversely
affect the AdvanceTracwith RSCsystem. Install any aftermarket
stereo loudspeaker as far as possible from the front center console, the
tunnel, and the front seats in order to minimize the risk of interfering
with the AdvanceTracwith RSCsensors. Reducing the effectiveness
of the AdvanceTracwith RSCsystem could lead to an increased risk
of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.
WARNING:Remember that even advanced technology cannot
defy the laws of physics. It’s always possible to lose control of a
vehicle due to inappropriate driver input for the conditions. Aggressive
driving on any road condition can cause you to lose control of your
vehicle increasing the risk of personal injury or property damage.
Activation of the AdvanceTracwith RSCsystem is an indication that
at least some of the tires have exceeded their ability to grip the road;
this could reduce the operator’s ability to control the vehicle,
potentially resulting in a loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover,
personal injury and death. If your AdvanceTracwith RSCsystem
activates, SLOW DOWN.
2009 Mariner Hybrid(mhv)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)
Driving
206

If the steering wanders or pulls, check for:
•an improperly inflated tire
•uneven tire wear
•loose or worn suspension components
•loose or worn steering components
•improper steering alignment
A high crown in the road or high crosswinds may also make the steering
seem to wander/pull.
PREPARING TO DRIVE
WARNING:Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover
rate than other types of vehicles.
WARNING:In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is
significantly more likely to die than a person wearing a seat belt.
Utility vehicles and trucks have larger tires and increased ground
clearance, giving the vehicle a higher center of gravity than a passenger
car.
WARNING:Vehicles with a higher center of gravity such as
utility vehicles and trucks handle differently than vehicles with a
lower center of gravity. Utility vehicles and trucks arenotdesigned for
cornering at speeds as high as passenger cars any more than low-slung
sports cars are designed to perform satisfactorily under off-road
conditions. Avoid sharp turns, excessive speed or abrupt maneuvers in
these vehicles. Failure to drive cautiously could result in an increased
risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and
death.
WARNING:Loaded vehicles, with a higher center of gravity,
may handle differently than unloaded vehicles. Do not overload
your vehicle and use extra precautions, such as driving at slower
speeds, avoiding abrupt steering changes and allowing for increased
stopping distance, when driving a heavily loaded vehicle. Over-loading
or loading the vehicle improperly can deteriorate handling capability
and contribute to loss of vehicle control and vehicle rollover.
2009 Mariner Hybrid(mhv)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)
Driving
211

Driving on snow and ice
4WD vehicles have advantages over 2WD vehicles in snow and ice but
can skid like any other vehicle.
Should you start to slide while driving on snowy or icy roads, turn the
steering wheel in the direction of the slide until you regain control.
Avoid sudden applications of power and quick changes of direction on
snow and ice. Apply the accelerator slowly and steadily when starting
from a full stop.
Avoid sudden braking as well. Although a 4WD vehicle may accelerate
better than a two-wheel drive vehicle in snow and ice, it won’t stop any
faster, because as in other vehicles, braking occurs at all four wheels. Do
not become overconfident as to road conditions.
Make sure you allow sufficient distance between you and other vehicles
for stopping; drive slower than usual. Since your vehicle is equipped with
a Four Wheel Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), apply the brake steadily.
Do not “pump” the brakes. Refer to theBrakessection of this chapter
for additional information on the operation of the anti-lock brake system.
4WD vehicles should be driven with traction devices as referred to in
Using snow tires and traction devicesin theTires, Wheels and
Loadingchapter.
Maintenance and Modifications
The suspension and steering systems on your vehicle have been designed
and tested to provide durable load carrying capability and predictable
performance whether loaded or empty. 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 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 roll over 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 racks or pickup box
cover).
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
heavy off-road usage.
2009 Mariner Hybrid(mhv)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)
Driving
222

Get the most from your service and maintenance visits
There are a lot of reasons why visiting your Ford or Lincoln Mercury
Dealership for all your service needs is a great way to help keep your
vehicle running great.
Convenience
Many Dealerships have extended evening and Saturday hours to make
your service visit more convenient. How’s that for quality service?
Factory-trained Technicians
Ford and Lincoln Mercury service technicians participate in extensive
factory-sponsored certification training to help them become experts on
the operation of your vehicle. Ask your Dealership about the training and
certification their technicians have received.
Factory Authorized Systems Checks
In the event your vehicle experiences a component related concern,
please contact your Ford, Lincoln or Mercury dealership. The Ford Motor
Company Trained Technicians who work at Ford, Lincoln or Mercury
dealerships are specifically trained to understand your vehicle.
A proper repair begins with a thorough system check. Factory
Authorized Systems Checks can ONLY be found at a Ford or Lincoln
Mercury dealership. In some circumstances, the Technician may need to
request your authorization to perform additional operations to determine
the final diagnosis. The Technician’s goal is to ensure that your vehicle is
fixed right the first time, at the best value to you.
The following list represents several of the Factory Authorized Systems
Checks available at participating Ford and Lincoln Mercury Dealerships:
•Climate Control
•Check Engine Light
•All Wheel Drive/Four-Wheel Drive
•Automatic Transmission
•Engine Cooling/Cabin Heating
•Suspension/Steering
•Charge/Start/Battery
•Wheel Alignment
•Brakes
And when your vehicle needs replacement parts, insist that only parts
meeting Ford Motor Company’s specifications are used. Genuine Ford
2009 Mariner Hybrid(mhv)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)
Scheduled Maintenance Guide
314

Multi-point Inspection
In order to keep your vehicle running right, it is important that you have
the systems on your vehicle checked regularly. This can help identify any
potential issue before there are any problems. Ford Motor Company
suggests the following multi-point inspection to be performed at every
scheduled maintenance as the way to ensure your vehicle keeps running
right.
Check every month
❑Check function of all interior and exterior lights❑Check tires for wear and correct air pressure, including spare tire
❑Check windshield washer fluid level
❑Check engine oil level
Check every six months
❑Check lap/shoulder belts and seat latches for wear and function❑Check that externally mounted spare tire is properly stowed (tight)
❑Check parking brake for proper operation
❑Check safety warning lamps (brake, ABS, air bag, safety belt) for operation
❑Check cooling system fluid level and coolant strength
❑Check low voltage (underhood) battery connections and clean if necessary
❑Check washer spray, wiper operation and clean all wiper blades (replace as necessary)
❑Check and lubricate all hinges, latches and outside locks. Inspect for correct operation
❑Check and lubricate door rubber weatherstrips. Inspect for excessive wear
❑Check and clean body and door drain holes. Inspect for clogs and obstructions
Multi-point inspection - Recommended at every visit
❑Check and top up fluid levels: brake, engine coolant recovery reservoir, motor/electronics reservoir and window washer.❑Inspect tires for wear and correct air pressure.
❑Check exhaust system for leaks, damage, loose parts and foreign materials.
❑Check low voltage (underhood) battery performance.
❑Check operation of horn, exterior lamps, turn signals and hazard warning lights.
❑Check radiator, coolers and heater and air conditioning hoses.
❑Inspect windshield washer spray and wiper operation.
❑Check windshield for cracks, chips and pitting.
❑Inspect for oil and fluid leaks.
❑Inspect engine air cleaner filter and elements.
❑Inspect half-shaft dust boots.
❑Check shocks, struts and other suspension components for leaks and damage.
2009 Mariner Hybrid(mhv)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)
Scheduled Maintenance Guide
316

20,000 miles (32,000 km)
❑Change engine oil and replace oil filter❑Inspect tires for wear and measure tread depth❑Rotate tires❑Inspect wheel ends for end play and noise❑Inspect brake pads, shoes, rotors, drums, brake lines and
hoses and parking brake
❑Inspect engine and Motor/electronics cooling system and
hoses
❑Inspect steering linkage, suspension and, if equipped, half-
shafts, driveshaft and ball joints
❑Inspect exhaust system and heat shields❑Replace high voltage battery A/C filter
DEALERVALIDATION:
RO#: P&A C
ODE:
D
ATE:MILEAGE:
30,000 miles (48,000 km)
❑Change engine oil and replace oil filter❑Inspect tires for wear and measure tread depth❑Rotate tires❑Inspect wheel ends for end play and noise❑Inspect high voltage battery A/C filter, replace if necessary❑Replace engine air filter
DEALERVALIDATION:
RO#: P&A C
ODE:
D
ATE:MILEAGE:
40,000 miles (64,000 km)
❑Change engine oil and replace oil filter❑Inspect tires for wear and measure tread depth❑Rotate tires❑Inspect wheel ends for end play and noise❑Inspect brake pads, shoes, rotors, drums, brake lines and
hoses and parking brake
❑Inspect engine and Motor/electronics cooling system and
hoses
❑Inspect steering linkage, suspension and, if equipped, half-
shafts, driveshaft and ball joints
❑Inspect exhaust system and heat shields❑Replace high voltage battery A/C filter
DEALERVALIDATION:
RO#: P&A C
ODE:
D
ATE:MILEAGE:
2009 Mariner Hybrid(mhv)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA(fus)
Scheduled Maintenance Guide
318