Ford E-450 (2018 year). Manual — part 22

LIMITED SLIP DIFFERENTIAL

(If Equipped)

This axle provides added traction on
slippery surfaces, particularly when one
wheel is on a poor traction surface. Under
normal conditions, the limited-slip axle
functions like a standard rear axle. The axle
may exhibit a slight noise or vibration
during tight turns with low vehicle speed.
This is normal behavior and indicates the
axle is working.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Note: Occasional brake noise is normal. If
a metal-to-metal, continuous grinding or
continuous squeal sound is present, the
brake linings may be worn-out and should
be inspected by an authorized dealer. If the
vehicle has continuous vibration or shudder
in the steering wheel while braking, the
vehicle should be inspected by an
authorized dealer.

Note: Brake dust may accumulate on the
wheels, even under normal driving
conditions. Some dust is inevitable as the
brakes wear and does not contribute to
brake noise. See Cleaning the Wheels
(page 164).

E144522

See the Instrument Cluster
chapter for information on the
brake system warning light.

Wet brakes result in reduced braking
efficiency. Gently press the brake pedal a
few times when driving from a car wash or
standing water to dry the brakes.

Brake Over Accelerator

In the event the accelerator pedal
becomes stuck or entrapped, apply steady
and firm pressure to the brake pedal to
slow the vehicle and reduce engine power.
If you experience this condition, apply the
brakes and bring your vehicle to a safe
stop. Turn the engine off, shift the
transmission into park (P), apply the
parking brake, and then inspect the
accelerator pedal for any interferences. If
none are found and the condition persists,
have your vehicle towed to the nearest
authorized dealer.

Hydraulic brake booster system
(Hydroboost or Hydromax)

The Hydroboost and Hydromax systems
receive fluid pressure from the power
steering pump to provide power assist
during braking.

The Hydromax booster receives backup
pressure from the reserve system electric
pump whenever the fluid in the power
steering system is not flowing. When the
engine is off, the pump will turn on if the
brake pedal is applied, or if the ignition is
turned to the on position.

The sound of the pump operating may be
heard by the driver, but this is a normal
characteristic of the system.

The reserve system provides reduced
braking power, so the vehicle should be
operated under these conditions with
caution, and only to seek service repair and
remove the vehicle from the roadway.

Note: For Hydromax-equipped vehicles
operating under normal conditions, the noise
of the fluid flowing through the booster may
be heard whenever the brake is applied. This
condition is normal. Vehicle service is not
required.

If braking performance or pedal response
becomes very poor, even when the pedal
is strongly pressed, it may indicate the
presence of air in the hydraulic system or
leakage of fluid. Stop the vehicle safely as
soon as possible and seek service
immediately.

HINTS ON DRIVING WITH
ANTI-LOCK BRAKES

The anti-lock braking system does not
eliminate the risks when:
•

You drive too closely to the vehicle in
front of you.

•

Your vehicle is hydroplaning.

•

You take corners too fast.

•

The road surface is poor.

Note: If the system activates, the brake
pedal may pulse and may travel further.
Maintain pressure on the brake pedal. You
may also hear a noise from the system. This
is normal.

PARKING BRAKE

WARNING

Always set the parking brake fully
and make sure the transmission
selector lever is placed in park (P).

Failure to set the parking brake and engage
park could result in vehicle roll-away,
property damage or bodily injury. Turn the
ignition to the lock position and remove
the key whenever you leave your vehicle.

Apply the parking brake whenever your
vehicle is parked.
•

For vehicles equipped with a foot
operated parking brake, press the pedal
downward to set the parking brake.

•

For vehicle equipped with a hand
operated parking brake, pull the
parking brake lever up to set the
parking brake.

E144522

The brake warning lamp in the
instrument cluster illuminates
when the ignition is turned on

and the parking brake is applied.

The parking brake is not recommended to
stop a moving vehicle. However, if the
normal brakes fail, the parking brake can
be used to stop your vehicle in an
emergency. Your vehicle's stopping
distance will increase greatly and the
handling of your vehicle will be adversely
affected.

To release the parking brake:
•

For vehicles equipped with a foot
operated parking brake, pull the
parking brake release lever.

•

For vehicles equipped with a hand
operated parking brake, push the
parking brake lever down.

PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION

The traction control system helps avoid
drive wheel spin and loss of traction.

If your vehicle begins to slide, the system
applies the brakes to individual wheels
and, when needed, reduces engine power
at the same time. If the wheels spin when
accelerating on slippery or loose surfaces,
the system reduces engine power in order
to increase traction.

USING TRACTION CONTROL

WARNING

The traction control light illuminates
steadily if a failure is detected in the
system. Verify that the traction

control system was not manually disabled
using the switch. If the traction control light
is still illuminating steadily, have the
system serviced by an authorized dealer
immediately. Operating your vehicle with
traction control disabled could lead to an
increased risk of loss of vehicle control,
vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.

The system automatically turns on each
time you switch the ignition on.

If your vehicle is stuck in mud or snow,
switching traction control off may be
beneficial as this allows the wheels to spin.

Switching the System Off

E194301

The switch for the traction
control system is located on the
instrument panel.

When you switch the system off, an
illuminated icon appears on the instrument
cluster.

Use the switch again to return the traction
control system to normal operation.

System Indicator Lights and
Messages

E138639

The traction control light
temporarily illuminates on
engine start-up and flashes

when a driving condition activates the
system.

E194301

The traction control off light
temporarily illuminates on
engine start-up and stays on:

•

When you switch the traction control
system off.

•

If a problem occurs in the system.

(If Equipped)