Ford Escape Hybrid (2012 year). Manual — part 2

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
necessary for cabin heating or
windshield defrost. The engine will
also be started when ambient
temperatures are low.

After I start my car in the
morning, 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 40 mph (65 km/h)?

The engine is required to turn on
above this speed to protect the
transaxle hardware.

Introduction

10

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 rev up so
high 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 transaxle technology
that help maximize your hybrid’s
fuel economy.

What does it mean when my
power assist gauge moves to the
right? To the left?

Electricity is coming out of the
battery when the gauge moves to
the right. Electricity is going into
the battery when the gauge moves
to the left.

Introduction

11

Question

Answer

What is the fan noise I hear from
the rear of my hybrid?

The fan noise comes from two fans
located inside the high voltage
battery. These fans turn on when
the battery requires cooling air.
The fan speed, and associated
noise level, will change according
to both the amount of cooling
required and the speed of the
vehicle to maintain good
performance.

How far can I go in 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?

Can I put E10 or E85 in my
vehicle, and how will it affect my
fuel economy?

Your hybrid vehicle can use E10
(10% ethanol, 90% gasoline) fuel,
but you may notice slightly
reduced fuel economy because
ethanol contains less energy per
gallon than gasoline. Your hybrid
vehicle is not designed to use E85
(85% ethanol).

How long will my high voltage
battery last? Does it need
maintenance?

The high voltage battery system is
designed to last the life of the
vehicle and requires no
maintenance.

Introduction

12

Question

Answer

Can you charge the battery with a
plug into an A/C outlet?

There are no provisions for
charging the high voltage battery
from a power supply external to
the vehicle.

Can I tow the hybrid behind my
motor home with all four wheels
down?

Yes. Your hybrid vehicle can be
“flat-towed” without modification.
See the Recreational towing
section in the Tires, Wheels and
Loading chapter for more
information.

SPECIAL NOTICES

Special instructions
For your added safety, your vehicle is fitted with sophisticated electronic
controls.

WARNING: Please read the section Airbag Supplemental
Restraint System (SRS) in the Seating and Safety Restraints

chapter. Failure to follow the specific warnings and instructions could
result in personal injury.

WARNING: Front seat mounted rear-facing child or infant seats
should NEVER be placed in front of an active passenger airbag.

Notice to owners of pickup trucks and utility type vehicles

WARNING: Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover
rate than other types of vehicles.

Introduction

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