Ford F-250 (2022 year). Manual in english — page 22

E209766

Positioning the Trailer

Hitch the trailer to your vehicle and
connect the electrical wiring harness.
Check to make sure that the wiring is
working. See

Connecting a Trailer

(page

323).

E209759

Park your vehicle and hitched trailer on a
level surface.

For best results, make sure that your trailer
rides level with the ground when you hitch
your vehicle. See

Connecting a Trailer

(page 323).

E209760

Make sure that the trailer and your vehicle
are in line with each other. You can do this
by putting the transmission in drive (D) and
pulling straight forward.

Configuring the Trailer in the
Instrument Cluster Display

1.

Shift to reverse (R).

2. Press the camera view button.

3. Press the trailer view icon.

4. Using the instrument cluster controls

on the steering wheel, select

Add

Trailer

.

5. Add a personalized name for the trailer

using the instrument cluster display
prompts. Use the down arrow to scroll
to the preferred letter and then press
the right arrow to advance to the next
letter. Press the

OK

button.

6. Select the trailer brake type.

Note:

Select

Default

Electric/Surge/None

if the trailer has

electric, surge or no brakes.

7.

Select the trailer brake effort.

Note:

The default value is

Low

and is the

recommended setting for most trailers.
Select a different setting if your trailer's
brakes require more initial voltage, or you
prefer more aggressive trailer braking.

8. Select the trailer type.

Note:

The system could prompt you to

setup

Trailer Blind Spot

before continuing

the setup process.

9. Select whether you want to add the

feature.

358

Trailer Reverse Guidance

(If Equipped)

APPLYING THE TRAILER
REVERSE AID STICKER

Placing the Sticker

Place the sticker in an area visible by the
rear view camera. The entire sticker must
be within 7–20 in (17–51 cm) from the
center of the hitch ball, as shown in the
following illustration.

E310619

Use the supplied sticker placement card,
a tape measure and pen to carefully mark
the area to attach the sticker. The sticker
is in the back cover pocket of your quick
start guide. Make sure the entire sticker is
within the green zone between the two
arcs or distance markers on the diagram,
and is also visible in the rear view camera
display.

Once you have found the correct location,
place the sticker.

Note:

Make sure nothing can obstruct the

rear view camera's view of the sticker such
as a jack handle or wiring.

Note:

Position the sticker on a flat, dry and

clean horizontal surface. For best results,
apply the sticker when temperatures are
above 32°F (0°C).

Note:

Do not move stickers after placing

them. Do not re-use any stickers if removed.

Note:

See your authorized dealer to

purchase additional stickers.

Taking the Measurements

After you place the sticker on your trailer,
you must take some measurements.

The measurement card requires recording
four distances: A, B, C and D. Record the
trailer name for these measurements.

Note:

Use consistent metric or imperial

units as required by your country or vehicle.

Note:

The system requires accurate

measurements to properly operate.

E209806

A

B

C

D

D

The horizontal distance from the
license plate to the center of the
ball hitch on the trailer.

A

The horizontal distance from the
center of the ball hitch to the
center of the sticker.

B

The point to point distance from
the rear view camera to the
center of the sticker.

C

The horizontal distance from the
tailgate to the center of the
trailer axle or axles.

D

Note:

Distance D is the center of the axles

for trailers with more than one axle.

Note:

Round distance D to the nearest

inch or centimeter.

359

Trailer Reverse Guidance

(If Equipped)

Note:

When rounding in inches, round

upward if the measured length is a quarter
inch or greater. Round downward if the
measured length is less than a quarter inch.
For example, 12.25 in (31.11 cm) would be
rounded up to 12.50 in (31.75 cm). 12.13 in
(30.8 cm) would be rounded down to
12.00 in (30.48 cm).

Note:

When rounding in centimeters, round

to the nearest whole centimeter. If the
measurement is less than 0.2 in (0.5 cm)
round downward. If the measurement is
more than or equal to 0.2 in (0.5 cm) round
upward. For example, 11.9 in (30.3 cm)
would be rounded down to 11.8 in (30 cm).
12.0 in (30.5 cm) would be rounded up to
12.2 in (31 cm).

Entering the Measurements

Follow the prompts in the instrument
cluster display to enter each of the
measurements. Use the up and down
arrows to increase or decrease the
numbers, as necessary. Press OK to
confirm each measurement. When you add
the last measurement, the instrument
cluster display shows all the
measurements entered. You can choose
to confirm or change the measurements.

Confirming the Sticker Placement

Check the rear view camera display to see
if the system identifies the sticker. The
system marks the sticker with a red circle.
Confirm that the red circle shows over the
sticker image in the rear view camera
display.

Note:

If the system cannot locate the

sticker, try cleaning the camera lens. Make
sure the sticker is within the green zone.

CALIBRATING THE SYSTEM

Calibrating the system requires driving
straight forward. Follow the instructions in
the instrument cluster display to complete
the calibration process.

Note:

Calibrating the system requires an

area where you can safely drive forward. An
open parking lot is an ideal place to perform
the calibration.

Note:

Keep the steering wheel straight

when instructed to by the instrument cluster
display. If the steering wheel is in a turned
position during this instruction, the
calibration pauses.

Note:

The system is designed to work with

drawbars that have a license plate to hitch
ball center measurement of 9–20 in
(23–52 cm) when installed. Do not attempt
to use drawbars or trailers that have a
length outside of this range as the system
performance degrades and could cause
improper system function.

Note:

The instrument cluster display shows

if you are going too slow or fast. Calibration
pauses if the speed is outside the required
range of 4–24 mph (6–39 km/h).

Note:

For best results, do not calibrate the

system at night when calibrating the system
with the sticker.

SETTING UP TRAILER
REVERSE GUIDANCE FOR A
FIFTH-WHEEL OR GOOSENECK
TRAILER

CONFIGURING THE TRAILER

You must configure a trailer in the system
to use trailer reverse guidance. This is a
one-time setup process and the trailer
information is saved in the system for the
next time you use that trailer.

360

Trailer Reverse Guidance

(If Equipped)

The following illustration shows examples
of fifth-wheel and gooseneck trailers.

Note:

Trailer reverse guidance camera

views are available with no trailer setup.
However, complete functionality including
graphics and automatic view switching is
enabled by setup. Setup is required to
enable trailer backup assistance.

E311877

Configuring the Trailer in the
Instrument Cluster Display

1.

Shift to reverse (R).

2. Press the camera view button.

3. Press the trailer view icon.

4. Using the instrument cluster controls

on the steering wheel, select

Add

Trailer

.

5. Add a personalized name for the trailer

using the instrument cluster display
prompts. Use the down arrow to scroll
to the preferred letter and then press
the right arrow to advance to the next
letter. Press the

OK

button.

6. Select the trailer brake type.

Note:

Select

Default

Electric/Surge/None

if the trailer has

electric, surge or no brakes.

7.

Select the trailer brake effort.

Note:

The default value is

Low

and is the

recommended setting for most trailers.
Select a different setting if your trailer's
brakes require more initial voltage, or you
prefer more aggressive trailer braking.

8. Select the trailer type.

Note:

The system could prompt you to

setup

Trailer Blind Spot

before continuing

the setup process.

9. Select whether you want to add the

feature.

TRAILER SENSOR INSTALLATION

E315959

E316145

361

Trailer Reverse Guidance

(If Equipped)

To use the system with a fifth-wheel or
gooseneck trailer, you must install a
sensor. Refer to the instructions in the
sensor kit for proper installation.

Note:

Make sure the arrows on the sensor

housing are facing up. Mount the sensor to
a vertical part of the trailer that pivots and
moves when you turn your vehicle. Do not
mount to a stationary surface or to the truck
side of the fifth-wheel trailer hitch.

Note:

You need to replace the 7/4 way

connector in the bumper with the
recommended 7/12 pin connector if your
vehicle did not come with the fifth-wheel
prep package. See your authorized dealer.

Note:

If your vehicle has the fifth-wheel

prep package, you have everything you need.
If your vehicle does not have the fifth-wheel
prep package, see your authorized dealer to
purchase the sensor kit and the 7/12 pin
connector.

CALIBRATING THE SYSTEM

Calibrating the system requires driving
forward and turning left or right. Follow the
instructions on the instrument cluster
display and touchscreen to complete the
calibration process.

E346605

Note:

Calibrating the system requires an

area where you can safely drive forward and
turn left or right. An open parking lot is an
ideal place to perform the calibration.

Note:

Keep the steering wheel straight

when instructed to by the instrument cluster
display and touchscreen. If the steering
wheel is in a turned position during this
instruction, the calibration pauses.

Note:

During calibration, the system

determines the trailer length. The system
supports trailer lengths of 10–39 ft
(3–11.94 m) distance from the hitch point
to the center of the axle or axles.

Note:

The instrument cluster display and

touchscreen shows if you are going too slow
or fast. Calibration pauses if the speed is
outside the required range of 2–16 mph
(4–25 km/h).

Note:

You need to complete at least a 90°

turn, and longer trailers could require a 180°
turn.

SWITCHING TRAILER
REVERSE GUIDANCE ON AND
OFF

Shift into reverse (R), press the rear
camera button to expand the menu, press
the trailer icon and use the instrument
cluster display controls to select the
connected trailer.

Note:

If the trailer was connected just prior

to turning the system on, you may need to
drive forward to initialize the system. Follow
the instructions in the instrument cluster
display to activate the system.

362

Trailer Reverse Guidance

(If Equipped)

USING TRAILER REVERSE
GUIDANCE VIEWS

Up to seven camera views could be
available when using trailer reverse
guidance. Use the view that helps you the
most when reversing your vehicle and
trailer.

E310996

360° camera view. Shows a
360° view on the right-hand side
of the touchscreen with a rear

camera view on the left-hand side of the
touchscreen.

E310967

Rear view camera view. Shows
your trailer hitch or what is
directly behind your vehicle.

E310974

Rear split view camera view.
Shows a 180° degree view of
what is behind your vehicle.

E310995

Bed camera view. Shows the
truck bed.

E311776

Trailer AUX camera view. Shows
a rear view camera image of
what is behind your trailer. You

need to separately purchase this camera
and have it installed.

E310965

Trailer reverse guidance view.
Shows you a view of the sides of
your truck and the trailer. In auto

mode, this view moves as the trailer moves
so that you do not have to adjust the
camera as you turn. Left and right arrows
let you see other camera views.

E224484

Straight backup mode. Shows
which way to turn your steering
wheel to keep the trailer straight.

Use this view when you want to keep your
trailer completely in line with your truck.

Note:

It may be helpful to shift your vehicle

into drive (D), pull forward and straighten
out the vehicle and trailer before engaging
straight backup mode.

E224486

This takes you back to the 360°
camera system and out of the
trailer reverse guidance feature.

E315644

Auto. Press to return to auto
view.

Note:

Auto mode is the default setting.

Hitch Angle Graphic

The hitch angle graphic shows a small
representation of your truck and trailer with
visual feedback to help you monitor the
trailer. The graphic shows two different
colored lines for the trailer hitch angle. A
black line shows you where your trailer is
in relation to your vehicle. The white line
represents the amount the trailer can turn
based on steering wheel position.

The graphic shows a yellow and red zone
for the hitch angle to warn you of a high
angle condition that could require you to
pull forward to reduce the hitch angle. The
angle limits for each zone vary based on
the trailer length.

The yellow zone indicates you are
approaching the maximum controllable
trailer angle for the system. When the
trailer enters this zone, it is more difficult
to reduce the trailer turn when backing up.
It may be necessary to put your vehicle
back into drive (D) and pull forward to get
the truck and trailer back to an in-line
position.

The red zone indicates you have exceeded
the maximum controllable trailer angle for
the system. Immediately stop reversing.
Put your vehicle into drive (D) and pull
forward until the trailer is no longer in the
red zone.

363

Trailer Reverse Guidance

(If Equipped)

TRAILER REVERSE GUIDANCE – TROUBLESHOOTING

TRAILER REVERSE GUIDANCE – INFORMATION MESSAGES

Description

Message

Displays when the system turns on and is
initializing.

Detecting Trailer Please Wait…

A condition exists that prevents the system
from turning on. If the message continues
to display, visit your authorized dealer to
have your vehicle checked.

Trailer Reverse Guidance System is Not
Available

The steering system needs to learn internal
parameters to fully enable the feature.
Drive your vehicle straight forward above
25 mph (40 km/h) for approximately 5
minutes.

Trailer Reverse Guidance Driving Required
to Initialize Steering Press OK to Exit

Displays when you exceed the maximum
controllable trailer angle for the system.
Place your vehicle in drive (D) and pull
forward to get your vehicle and trailer back
to an in-line position, then activate the
system by selecting the connected trailer
and following the instructions in the instru-
ment cluster display.

Stop now. Deactivated by trailer angle.

If this message consistently displays, you
may need to repeat the trailer setup and
calibration. Delete the trailer from the
system and repeat the setup and calibra-
tion process.

Displays when the system does not detect
the sensor. Check the sensor connection,
that there is no damaged wiring between
the connector and sensor and that there is
only one sensor connected.

Trailer Reverse Guidance Sensor Not
Detected Refer to Owner's Manual Press
OK to Exit

Displays when the system does not detect
the trailer. Check that the sensor is correctly
installed and the trailer length is within the
allowed range.

Trailer Reverse Guidance Trailer Not
Detected. Refer to Owner's Manual. Press
OK to Exit

If these messages continue to display, visit
your authorized dealer to have your vehicle
checked.

364

Trailer Reverse Guidance

(If Equipped)

Description

Message

Displays when your vehicle has not moved
after the trailer sensor is connected or
extended operation below 1 mph (1 km/h).
Drive forward above 2 mph (3 km/h) to
initialize the system.

Trailer Reverse Guidance Trailer Not
Detected Pull Forward to Initialize Press
OK to Exit

365

Trailer Reverse Guidance

(If Equipped)

TRAILER REVERSE GUIDANCE –
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What does it mean if Measurement A
has reached maximum or minimum
value?

The system is designed to work with
drawbars that have a license plate to
hitch ball center measurement of
9–20 in (23–52 cm) when installed.
Do not attempt to use drawbars that
have a length outside this range as the
system performance degrades and
could cause improper system function.
Make sure that the measurement
being made is the horizontal distance
only from the license plate to the hitch
ball center. A straight line distance
that includes any vertical rise or drop
increases the measurement and
makes it inaccurate. Inaccurate
measurements degrade system
performance and could cause
improper system function. See

Applying the Trailer Reverse Aid
Sticker

(page 359).

What does it mean if Measurement B
has reached its maximum or minimum
value?

Make sure that the sticker is properly
placed. Stickers placed outside the
allowed zone adversely affects the
system performance and could cause
improper feature function. Make sure
that the measurement being made is
the horizontal distance only from
center of the sticker to the hitch ball
center. A straight line distance that
includes any vertical rise or drop
increases the measurement and
causes an inaccurate value to be
entered into the system. See

Applying the Trailer Reverse Aid
Sticker

(page 359).

What does it mean if Measurement C
has reached its maximum or minimum
value?

Make sure you follow the sticker
placement instructions. Stickers
placed outside the allowed zone
adversely affect the system
performance and could cause
improper feature function. If you have
met all the criteria for sticker
placement and you see this message,
the sticker is either too far below or too
close to the camera to properly
recognize the sticker. For the system
to correctly operate, lower the sticker
height if you receive the minimum
warning or raise the sticker height if
you receive the maximum warning.
Only one sticker can be placed on the
trailer for correct system function. The
previous sticker must be removed or
covered so only one sticker is visible
to the camera. Measurement B and C
must be measured again if a new
sticker is placed on the trailer. See

Applying the Trailer Reverse Aid
Sticker

(page 359).

What does it mean if Measurement D
has reached its maximum or minimum
value?

Make sure that the measurement
being made is the horizontal distance
only from tailgate to the center of the
single axle or the center of all the axles
on the trailer. The system does not
support trailer lengths outside the
range allowed by the information
display. See

Applying the Trailer

Reverse Aid Sticker

(page 359).

366

Trailer Reverse Guidance

(If Equipped)

Why does the trailer not reverse
straight when using a conventional
trailer?

Factors such as the drawbar
connection to the hitch receiver, road
camber, road grade and compliance
in the trailer suspension can influence
how straight the system is able to
reverse your trailer when the knob is
not turned. You can compensate for
the trailer drifting to the right or left by
slowly turning the knob until the trailer
is following your preferred path and
then holding the knob in that position.
If you would like to recalibrate the
system for straight backing, change
the sticker option in the instrument
cluster display. Confirm the
measurements, and the system
prompts you to perform the calibration
procedure.

Why does the trailer not reverse
straight when using a fifth-wheel or
gooseneck trailer?

Verify the sensor is correctly installed.
Other factors such as the hitch
connection, road camber, road slope
and trailer suspension could influence
how straight the system can reverse
the trailer when the control knob is not
turned. You can compensate for the
trailer drifting to the right or left by
slowly turning the knob until the trailer
is following your desired path and then
holding the knob in that position.

Why does the system not detect a
sensor?

There could be an issue with the
connection, the wiring harness could
be damaged, you could have multiple
sensors connected or the sensor could
be incorrectly installed. Check that the
12-way connector is fully inserted into
the 12-way socket. The red rubber seal
is not visible when the connector is
fully inserted. Also check that the
wiring harness sensor connection is
fully inserted at the trailer sensor, and
check for damaged wiring between
the 12-way connector and the trailer
sensor. Also, check that the sensor is
installed on a vertical surface with the
arrows pointing straight up.

What does it mean if the system
remains on one message for an
extended time during calibration when
setting up the system with a
conventional trailer?

The camera could need to be cleaned,
the sticker could be blocked, the
drawbar could be outside the allowed
range of 4–19 in (10–48 cm) or you
could need to move to a different area
to change the lighting and background.
Verify the sticker is in the proper
location. See

Applying the Trailer

Reverse Aid Sticker

(page 359). You

can move to a different area or change
the direction you are driving or setup
the system at a different time of day.
Some trailers are not compatible with
the sticker and camera system.

What does it mean if the system pauses
during calibration?

There could be steering input or trailer
movement during the straight drive
portion of the calibration process.

367

Trailer Reverse Guidance

(If Equipped)

What does it mean if the system
remains on one message for an
extended time during calibration when
setting up the system with a
fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailer?

The sensor could be incorrectly
installed, the trailer length could be
outside the allowed range or the road
surface could be too rough or bumpy.

What does it mean if the system
displays hold steering steady during
turn?

Part of the calibration process for the
sticker setup requires a steady turn. If
you are continually moving the
steering wheel during the turn, this
delays the calibration process. To
enable the calibration process, hold
the steering wheel at the same
position when turning.

What does it mean if the system
displays that it is not available?

There could be a sub-system that the
system uses that is not correctly
operating or there could be a battery
voltage issue. If the system continues
to display it is not available, visit your
authorized dealer to have your vehicle
checked.

What does it mean if the system
displays that driving is required to
initialize steering?

The steering system needs to learn
internal parameters to fully turn on the
feature. Drive your vehicle straight
forward above 25 mph (40 km/h) for
approximately 5 minutes. This could
also occur when your vehicle is new,
there is a battery voltage issue or if the
steering system has been serviced.

What does it mean if the system does
not detect a trailer when configured for
a fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailer?

Verify that the sensor is properly
connected. See

Trailer Sensor

Installation

(page 344). Repeat

calibration on a different route if you
have verified sensor installation.

What does it mean if the system
requires you to pull forward to
initialize?

This occurs when the vehicle has not
moved during the current key cycle
after you connect and select the trailer
in the instrument cluster display or you
operate the system at speeds below
1 mph (1 km/h) for an extended period
of time. Drive forward above 2 mph
(3 km/h) and the system indicates
when it initializes.

368

Trailer Reverse Guidance

(If Equipped)

What does it mean if the trailer is at its
maximum angle or the system
deactivated by trailer angle when using
a conventional trailer?

The system uses your measurements
to determine sticker position and
establish system limits. Accurate
sticker placement and trailer
measurements provide the best
system performance. If you are
consistently receiving this warning, it
is likely there is an issue with sticker
placement or the entered
measurements. Make sure that the
sticker is placed correctly and the
measurements were made correctly.
See

Applying the Trailer Reverse

Aid Sticker

(page 359). To change the

sticker location or change trailer
measurements, change the sticker
option in the instrument cluster
display. If the sticker location needs to
be changed, the previous sticker must
be removed and a new sticker needs
to be placed on the trailer. Only one
sticker should be placed on the trailer
for proper system function.

What does it mean if the trailer is at its
maximum angle or the system
deactivated by trailer angle when using
a fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailer?

You are at the maximum controllable
trailer angle for the system. Place your
vehicle in drive (D) and pull forward to
get the truck and trailer back to an
in-line position. If this message
consistently displays, this could
indicate the sensor is incorrectly
installed, the trailer needs to be
recalibrated or the drawbar or the
trailer dimensions are outside of the
supported range. The system is
designed to work with drawbars that
have a license plate to hitch ball center
measurement of 9–20 in (23–52 cm)
when installed. The system is designed
to work with trailers that have a hitch
point to center of the axle or axles
measurement of 6–33 ft
(1.85–10.05 m). Do not attempt to use
drawbars or trailers that have a length
outside of this range as the system
performance degrades and could
cause improper system function.
Check that the correct trailer is
selected in the instrument cluster
display. Verify the sensor is installed
according to the instructions included
in the sensor kit and check that the
drawbar and the trailer dimensions are
within the allowed range. Then, delete
the trailer from the system and repeat
the setup process to calibrate the
trailer.

369

Trailer Reverse Guidance

(If Equipped)

What does it mean when the system
tells you to take control of the steering
wheel?

The system is no longer steering the
vehicle and you must take over
steering. There are four reasons the
system could display this message.
The first reason the system could
display this message is that you have
touched the steering wheel when the
system is steering. The second reason
the system could display this message
is that you have exceeded the
maximum speed for the feature. The
third reason the system could display
this message is that the trailer is not
detected. The final reason the system
could display this message is that an
internal condition for system operation
is not met that requires your vehicle to
return to manual control of the
steering.

What does it mean if the system circles
something besides the sticker or
cannot find the sticker?

The system requires a clear view of the
sticker placed on the trailer and
accurate measurements to locate the
sticker. Remove any items that may
be blocking the view of the sticker.
Depending on your trailer configuration
and any equipment mounted to your
trailer, it is possible for the sticker to
be blocked from view of the camera
as it rotates on the hitch ball but not
be blocked during setup. It may be
necessary to remove the sticker from
its current location if the obstruction
cannot be cleared. The sticker location
must still meet the requirements noted
the setup instructions. See

Applying

the Trailer Reverse Aid Sticker

(page 359). Verify the measurements
you entered into the system are
accurate. To change the sticker
location or change trailer
measurements, change the sticker
option in the instrument cluster
display. If the system cannot initially
detect the trailer, it could be necessary
for you to change the lighting
conditions by moving your vehicle and
trailer or waiting until the conditions
change. Some trailers are not
compatible with the sticker and
camera system. Only one sticker can
be placed on the trailer for correct
system function.

Note:

The system is designed to be used

with the same trailer connection every time
you choose the trailer from the instrument
cluster display. When using a different
drawbar or a different pin hole on drawbars
with more than one, connecting the drawbar
to your vehicle affects the trailer
measurements. Take the measurements
again and update if required.

370

Trailer Reverse Guidance

(If Equipped)

OFF-ROAD DRIVING

WHAT IS OFF-ROAD DRIVING

Off-road driving is driving your vehicle on
unsurfaced roads or trails, made from dirt,
rocks, sand and mud.

BASIC OFF-ROAD DRIVING
TECHNIQUES

Off-road Driving Hints

Before taking your vehicle off-roading, a
basic vehicle inspection should be done to
make sure that the vehicle is in top working
condition. It is always recommended that
at least two vehicles are used while
off-roading. The buddy system helps make
sure that help is close at hand should a
vehicle become stuck or damaged. It is also
wise to take supplies such as a first aid kit,
supply of water, tow strap, cell or satellite
phone with you any time an off-road
excursion is planned.

1.

Grip the steering wheel with thumbs
on the outside of the rim. This will
reduce the risk of injury due to abrupt
steering wheel motions that occur
when negotiating rough terrain.

2. Throttle, brake and steering inputs

should be made in a smooth and
controlled manner. Sudden inputs to
the controls can cause loss of traction
or upset the vehicle, especially while
on loose terrain or while crossing
obstacles such as rocks or logs.

3. Look ahead on your route noting

upcoming obstacles, or any other
factors which may indicate a change
in available traction, and adjust the
vehicle speed and route accordingly.

4. When driving off-road, if the front or

rear suspension is bottoming out
and/or excessive contact with the
skid-plates is encountered, reduce
vehicle speed to avoid potential
damage to the vehicle.

5. When with other vehicles, it is

recommended that communication is
used, and the lead vehicle notify other
vehicles of obstacles that could cause
potential vehicle damage.

6. Always keep available ground

clearance in mind and pick a route that
minimizes the risk of catching the
underside of the vehicle on an obstacle.

7.

When negotiating low speed obstacles,
applying light brake pressure in
conjunction with the throttle will help
prevent the vehicle from jerking and
will allow you to negotiate the obstacle
in a more controlled manner. Using 4L
will also help with this.

8. Off-roading requires a high degree of

concentration. Even if your local law
does not prohibit alcohol use while
driving off-road, Ford strongly
recommends against drinking if you
plan to off-road.

Crossing Obstacles

•

Review the path ahead before
attempting to cross any obstacle. It is
best if the obstacle is reviewed from
outside the vehicle so that there is a
good understanding of terrain condition
both in front of and behind the
obstacle.

•

Approach obstacles slowly.

371

Driving Hints

•

If a large obstacle such as a rock
cannot be avoided, choose a path that
places the rock directly under the tire
rather than the undercarriage of the
vehicle. This will help prevent damage
to the vehicle.

•

Ditches and washouts should be
crossed at a 45° angle, allowing each
wheel to independently cross the
obstacle.

Hill Climbing

WARNING:

Extreme care should

be used when steering the vehicle in
reverse down a slope so as not to cause
the vehicle to swerve out of control.

•

Always attempt to climb a steep hill
along the fall line of the slope and not
diagonally.

•

If the vehicle is unable to make it up
the hill, DO NOT attempt to turn back
down the slope. Place the vehicle in
low range and slowly back down in
reverse.

•

When descending a steep slope, select
low gear and engage hill descent
control. Use the throttle and brake
pedals to control your descent speed.

Note:

Hill descent control is functional in

reverse and should be used in this situation.

DRIVING THROUGH WATER
LIMITATIONS - TREMOR

Maximum Wading

Depth

Model

33 in (837 mm)

All.

When you are driving though water do not
exceed 4 mph (7 km/h).

AFTER DRIVING YOUR VEHICLE
OFF-ROAD

WARNING:

After off-road use,

before returning to the road, check the
wheels and tires for damage. Off-road
use may cause damage to your wheels
and tires that can lead to tire failure, loss
of vehicle control, serious injury or death.

Driving off-road places more stress on your
vehicle than most on-road driving. After
driving off-road check for damage to your
vehicle and, if necessary, have your vehicle
fixed as soon as possible.

Inspect the underbody of your vehicle by
checking tires, body structure, steering,
suspension, and exhaust system for
damage.

Check the radiator for mud and debris and
clean as needed.

Remove accumulations of plants or brush.
These things could be a fire hazard or hide
damage to the fuel lines, brake hoses, and
propeller shafts.

After extended operation in mud, sand,
water, or similar dirty conditions, inspect
the underbody and clean your vehicle as
soon as possible.

If you experience unusual vibration after
driving in mud, slush or similar conditions,
check the wheels for impacted material.
Impacted material can cause vibrations
while driving and wheel imbalance.
Remove the material to resolve the
problem.

372

Driving Hints

COLD WEATHER
PRECAUTIONS

The functional operation of some
components and systems can be affected
at temperatures below approximately
-13°F (-25°C).

BREAKING-IN

Your vehicle requires a break-in period. For
the first 1,000 mi (1,600 km), avoid driving
at high speeds, heavy braking, aggressive
shifting or using your vehicle to tow. 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.

•

Do not add unnecessary accessories
to the exterior of your vehicle, for
example running boards. If you use a
roof rack, remember to fold it down or
remove it when not in use.

•

Do not shift into neutral when you are
braking or when your vehicle is slowing
down.

•

Shut all windows when driving at high
speeds.

•

Switch off all electric systems when
not in use, for example air conditioning.
Make sure that you unplug any
accessories from the auxiliary power
points when not in use.

DRIVING THROUGH SHALLOW
WATER

WARNING:

Do not attempt to

cross a deep or flowing body of water.
Failure to follow this instruction could
result in the loss of control of your
vehicle, personal injury or death.

Note:

Driving through standing water can

cause vehicle damage.

Note:

Engine damage can occur if water

enters the air filter.

Before driving through standing water,
check the depth. Never drive through water
that is higher than the bottom of the wheel
hubs.

373

Driving Hints