Ford F-350, F23, F-550, F-250 User Manual

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Table of Contents

Introduction 4

Instrument Cluster 12

Warning and control lights 12 Gauges 15

Entertainment Systems 19

AM/FM stereo 19 AM/FM stereo cassette 21 AM/FM stereo cassette with CD 23 AM/FM stereo with CD 27 CD changer 31

Climate Controls 35

Heater only 35 Manual heating and air conditioning 36

Table of Contents

Lights 38

Headlamps 38 Turn signal control 41 Bulb replacement 42

Driver Controls 48

Windshield wiper/washer control 48 Steering wheel adjustment 49 Moon roof 51 Power windows 52 Mirrors 53 Speed control 56 Message center 59

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Table of Contents

Locks and Security 65

Keys 65 Locks 65 Anti-theft system 67

Seating and Safety Restraints 72

Seating 72 Safety restraints 77 Air bags 90 Child restraints 99

Driving 110

Starting 110 Brakes 115 Transmission operation 118 Trailer towing 146

Roadside Emergencies 174

Getting roadside assistance 174 Hazard flasher switch 175 Fuel pump shut-off switch 175 Fuses and relays 176 Changing tires 181 Jump starting 192 Wrecker towing 197

Customer Assistance 199

Reporting safety defects (U.S. only) 207

Cleaning 208

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Table of Contents

Maintenance and Specifications 215

Engine compartment 217 Engine oil 218 Battery 221 Fuel information 229 Air filter(s) 246 Part numbers 253 Refill capacities 254 Lubricant specifications 257

Accessories 270

Index 274

All rights reserved. Reproduction by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system or translation in whole or part is not permitted without written authorization from Ford Motor Company. Ford may change the contents without notice and without incurring obligation.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Introduction

CALIFORNIA Proposition 65 Warning

WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and

certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. In addition, certain fluids contained in vehicles and certain products of component wear contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations on acquiring your new Ford. Please take the time to get well acquainted with your vehicle by reading this handbook. The more you know and understand about your vehicle the greater the safety and pleasure you will derive from driving it.

For more information on Ford Motor Company and its products visit the following website:

• In the United States: www.ford.com

• In Canada: www.ford.ca

• In Australia: www.ford.com.au

• In Mexico: www.ford.com.mx

Additional owner information is given in separate publications.

This Owner’s Guide describes every option and model variant available and therefore some of the items covered may not apply to your particular vehicle. Furthermore, due to printing cycles it may describe options before they are generally available.

Remember to pass on the Owner’s Guide when reselling the vehicle. It is an integral part of the vehicle.

Fuel pump shut-off switch In the event of an accident the

safety switch will automatically cut off the fuel supply to the engine. The switch can also be activated through sudden vibration (e.g. collision when parking). To reset the switch, refer to the Fuel pump shut-off switch in the Roadside emergencies chapter.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Introduction

SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION

Warning symbols in this guide

How can you reduce the risk of personal injury and prevent possible damage to others, your vehicle and its equipment? In this guide, answers to such questions are contained in comments highlighted by the warning triangle symbol. These comments should be read and observed.

Warning symbols on your vehicle

When you see this symbol, it is imperative that you consult the relevant section of this guide before touching or attempting adjustment of any kind.

Protecting the environment

We must all play our part in protecting the environment. Correct vehicle usage and the authorized disposal of waste cleaning and lubrication materials are significant steps towards this aim. Information in this respect is highlighted in this guide with the tree symbol.

BREAKING-IN YOUR VEHICLE

Your vehicle does not need an extensive break-in. Try not to drive continuously at the same speed for the first 1,600 km (1,000 miles) of new vehicle operation. Vary your speed to allow parts to adjust themselves to other parts.

Drive your new vehicle for at least 800 km (500 miles) before towing a trailer or snowplowing.

Do not add friction modifier compounds or special break-in oils during the first few thousand kilometers (miles) of operation, since these additives may prevent piston ring seating. See Engine oil in the Maintenance and specifications chapter for more information on oil usage.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Introduction

SPECIAL NOTICES

Emission warranty

The New Vehicle Limited Warranty includes Bumper-to-Bumper Coverage, Safety Restraint Coverage, Corrosion Coverage, and 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel Engine Coverage. In addition, your vehicle is eligible for Emissions Defect and Emissions Performance Warranties. For a detailed description of what is covered and what is not covered, refer to the Warranty Guide that is provided to you along with your Owner’s Guide.

Data Recording

Computers in your vehicle are capable of recording detailed data potentially including but not limited to information such as:

• the use of restraint systems including seat belts by the driver and passengers,

• information about the performance of various systems and modules in the vehicle, and

• information related to engine, throttle, steering, brake or other system status.

Any of this information could potentially include information regarding how the driver operates the vehicle, potentially including but not limited to information regarding vehicle speed, brake or accelerator application, or steering input. This information may be stored during regular operation or in a crash or near crash event.

This stored information may be read out and used by:

• Ford Motor Company.

• service and repair facilities.

• law enforcement or government agencies.

• others who may assert a right or obtain your consent to know such

information.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Introduction

Special instructions

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

Please read the section Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) in the Seating and safety restraints chapter. Failure to follow

the specific warnings and instructions could result in personal injury.

Front seat mounted rear facing child or infant seats should NEVER be used in front of a passenger side air bag unless the

air bag can be and is turned OFF.

Notice to owners of diesel-powered vehicles

Read the 6.0 Liter Power Stroke Direct Injection Turbo Diesel Owner’s Guide Supplement for information regarding correct operation and maintenance of your Diesel-powered light truck.

Notice to owners of pickup trucks and utility type vehicles

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

Before you drive your vehicle, please read this Owner’s Guide carefully. Your vehicle is not a passenger car. As with other vehicles of this type, failure to operate this vehicle correctly may result in loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury or death.

Be sure to read Driving off road in the Driving chapter.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Introduction

Using your vehicle with a snowplow

For more information and guidelines for using your vehicle with a snowplow, refer to the Driving chapter.

Using your vehicle as an ambulance

If your light truck is equipped with the Ford Ambulance Preparation Package, it may be utilized as an ambulance. Ford urges ambulance manufacturers to follow the recommendations of the Ford Incomplete

Vehicle Manual, Ford Truck Body Builder’s Layout Book and the Qualified Vehicle Modifiers (QVM) Guidelines as well as pertinent

supplements. For additional information, please contact the Truck Body Builders Advisory Service 1–877–840–4338.

Use of your Ford light truck as an ambulance, without the Ford Ambulance Preparation Package voids the Ford New Vehicle Limited Warranty and may void the Emissions Warranties. In addition, ambulance usage without the preparation package could cause high underbody temperatures, overpressurized fuel and a risk of spraying fuel which could lead to fires.

If your vehicle is equipped with the Ford Ambulance Preparation Package, it will be indicated on the Certification label. The label is located on the driver’s side door pillar or on the rear edge of the driver’s door. You can determine whether the ambulance manufacturer followed Ford’s recommendations by directly contacting that manufacturer. Ford Ambulance Preparation Package is only available on certain 6.0L Diesel engine equipped vehicles.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Introduction

Notice to owners with vehicles equipped with Power Take Off (PTO) capability

Refer to the Driving chapter for more information and guidelines for operating vehicles equipped with PTO.

Middle East/North Africa vehicle specific information

For your particular global region, your vehicle may be equipped with features and options that are different from the ones that are described in this Owner Guide; therefore, a supplement has been supplied that complements this book. By referring to the pages in the provided supplement, you can properly identify those features, recommendations and specifications that are unique to your vehicle. Refer to this Owner

Guide for all other required information and warnings.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Introduction

These are some of the symbols you may see on your vehicle.

Vehicle Symbol Glossary

Safety Alert

Fasten Safety Belt Air Bag-Front

Air Bag-Side Child Seat

Child Seat Installation Warning

Child Seat Tether Anchor

Anti-Lock Brake System

Traction Control AdvanceTrac娂

Master Lighting Switch Hazard Warning Flasher

Fog Lamps-Front Fuse Compartment

See Owner’s Guide

Child Seat Lower Anchor

Brake System

Brake Fluid Non-Petroleum Based

Fuel Pump Reset Windshield Wash/Wipe

Windshield Defrost/Demist

Rear Window Defrost/Demist

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Vehicle Symbol Glossary

Introduction

Power Windows Front/Rear

Child Safety Door Lock/Unlock

Power Window Lockout

Interior Luggage Compartment Release Symbol

Panic Alarm Engine Oil

Engine Coolant

Engine Coolant Temperature

Do Not Open When Hot Battery

Avoid Smoking, Flames, or Sparks

Battery Acid

Explosive Gas Fan Warning

Power Steering Fluid

Maintain Correct Fluid Level

Emission System Engine Air Filter

MAX

MIN

Passenger Compartment Air Filter

Jack

Check fuel cap Low tire warning

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Instrument Cluster

WARNING LIGHTS AND CHIMES

Warning lights and gauges can alert you to a vehicle condition that may become serious enough to cause expensive 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 bulb works. If any light remains on after starting the vehicle, have the respective system inspected immediately.

Service engine soon: The Service engine soon indicator light

illuminates when the ignition is first turned to the ON position to check the bulb. Solid illumination after the engine is started indicates the On Board Diagnostics System (OBD-II) has detected a malfunction. Refer to On board diagnostics (OBD-II) in the Maintenance and Specifications chapter. If 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 have your vehicle serviced immediately.

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.

Check fuel cap (if equipped):

Illuminates when the fuel cap may not be properly installed. Continued driving with this light on may cause the Service engine soon warning light to come on. Refer to Fuel filler cap in the Maintenance and Specifications chapter.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Instrument Cluster

Check gage: Illuminates when any of the following conditions has occurred:

• The engine coolant temperature is high.

• The engine oil pressure is low.

• The fuel gauge is at or near empty.

Brake system warning light: 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, seek service immediately from your dealership. Illumination after releasing the parking brake indicates low brake fluid level and the brake system should be inspected immediately by your servicing dealership.

Driving a vehicle with the brake system warning light on is

dangerous. A significant decrease in braking performance may occur. It will take you longer to stop the vehicle. Have the vehicle checked by your dealer immediately.

Anti-lock brake system: If the ABS light stays illuminated or continues to flash, a malfunction has been detected, have the system serviced immediately. Normal braking is still functional unless the brake warning light also is illuminated.

Air bag readiness: If this light fails to illuminate when ignition is turned to ON, continues to flash or remains on, have the system serviced immediately. A chime will also sound when a malfunction in the supplemental restraint system has been detected.

CHECK

GAGE

ABS

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Instrument Cluster

Safety belt: Reminds you to fasten your safety belt. A chime will also sound to remind you to fasten your safety belt.

Charging system: Illuminates when the battery is not charging properly.

Low fuel: Illuminates when the fuel level in the fuel tank is at or near empty (refer to Fuel gauge in this chapter).

Speed control: Illuminates when the speed control is activated. Turns off when the speed control system is deactivated.

Transmission Tow/Haul Feature (5–speed automatic transmission) (if equipped): The

ON light on the end of the gearshift lever illuminates when the Tow/Haul feature has been selected. Refer to the Driving chapter for transmission function and operation. If the light flashes steadily, have the system serviced immediately, damage to the transmission could occur.

Transmission control indicator light (TCIL) (4–speed automatic transmission) (if equipped):

Illuminates when the overdrive function of the transmission has been turned OFF, refer to the Driving chapter. If the light flashes steadily, have the system serviced immediately, damage to the transmission could occur.

Four wheel drive low (if equipped): Illuminates when

four-wheel drive low is engaged.

LOW

RANGE

OVERDRIVE

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Instrument Cluster

Four wheel drive indicator (if equipped): Illuminates when

four-wheel drive is engaged.

Door ajar: Illuminates when the ignition is in the ON position and any door is open.

Turn signal: Illuminates when the left or right turn signal or the hazard lights are turned on. If the indicators stay on or flash faster, check for a burned out bulb.

High beams: Illuminates when the high beam headlamps are turned on.

Key-in-ignition warning chime: Sounds when the key is left in the ignition in the OFF/LOCK or ACC position and the driver’s door is opened.

Headlamps on warning chime: Sounds when the headlamps or parking lamps are on, the ignition is off (the key is not in the ignition) and the driver’s door is opened.

Parking brake ON warning chime: Sounds when the parking brake is set, the engine is running and the vehicle is driven more than 5 Km (3 mph).

GAUGES

4x4

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Instrument Cluster

Speedometer: Indicates the current vehicle speed.

Engine coolant temperature gauge: Indicates engine coolant

temperature. At normal operating temperature, the needle will be in the normal range (between “H” and

“C”). If it enters the red section, the engine is overheating. Stop the vehicle as soon as safely possible, switch off the engine and let the engine cool.

Never remove the coolant reservoir cap while the engine is

running or hot.

Odometer: Registers the total kilometers (miles) of the vehicle.

Trip odometer: Registers the kilometers (miles) of individual journeys. Press the control once to switch from the odometer to the trip odometer. To reset the trip, press the control again until the trip reading is 0.0 miles.

Tachometer: Indicates the engine speed in revolutions per minute. Driving with your tachometer pointer continuously at the top of the scale may damage the engine.

PRND2

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Battery voltage gauge (manual transmission only): Indicates the

battery voltage when the ignition is in the ON position. If the pointer moves and stays outside the normal operating range (as indicated by arrows), have the vehicle’s electrical system checked as soon as possible.

Engine oil pressure gauge:

Indicates engine oil pressure. The needle should stay in the normal operating range (between “L” and “H”). If the needle falls below the normal range, stop the vehicle, turn off the engine and check the engine oil level. Add oil if needed. If the oil level is correct, have your vehicle checked at your dealership or by a qualified technician.

Fuel gauge: Indicates approximately how much fuel is left in the fuel tank (when the ignition is in the ON position). The fuel gauge may vary slightly when the vehicle is in motion or on a grade.

Refer to Filling the tank in the

Maintenance and Specifications

chapter for more information.

Instrument Cluster

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Instrument Cluster

Transmission fluid temperature gauge (automatic transmission only): If the gauge is in the:

White area (normal) - the

transmission fluid is within the normal operating temperature (between “H” and “C”).

Yellow area (warning) — the transmission fluid is higher than normal operating temperature. This can be caused by special operation conditions (i.e. snowplowing, towing or off road use). Refer to Special Operating Conditions in the scheduled maintenance guide for instructions. Operating the transmission for extended periods of time with the gauge in the yellow area may cause internal transmission damage.

Altering the severity of the driving conditions is recommended to lower the transmission temperature into the normal range.

Red area (over temperature) — the transmission fluid is overheating. Stop the vehicle to allow the temperature to return to normal range.

If the gauge is operating in the Yellow or Red area, stop the vehicle and verify the airflow is not restricted such as snow or debris blocking airflow through the grill. If the gauge continues to show high temperatures, see your Ford dealer.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Entertainment Systems

AM/FM STEREO

Entertainment Systems

VOL

PUSH

TONE

CLK

1 2 3 4 AM/FM

1. Seek: Press next strong station down/up the

frequency band.

2. Tune: Press change radio frequency down/up.

/ to find the

/ to manually

TONE VOL

ST DX

SEEK

TUNE

3. AM/FM: Press to choose a frequency band in radio mode.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

AM/FM

Entertainment Systems

4. Memory preset buttons: To set a station: Select frequency band

1 2 3 4

AM/FM; tune to a station, press and hold a preset button until sound returns.

5. Power/volume: Press to turn ON/OFF; turn to increase or decrease volume levels.

6. Tone: Press TONE until the desired level — Bass, Treble, Fade appears on the display. Turn the volume control to raise/lower the

TONE

CLK

VOL

PUSH

levels, or to move the audio sound from the right to left or the front to back (if equipped).

7. CLK (Clock): To set the hour, press and hold CLK until CLOCK SET appears in the display. Press SEEK to decrease

TONE

CLK

increase the hours.

To set the minute, press and hold CLK until CLOCK set appears in the display. Press TUNE to decrease

or increase the minutes.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

AM/FM STEREO CASSETTE

Entertainment Systems

VOL - PUSH ON

13 14 15 16 17 1 234

BASS TREB BAL FADE

SEEK

TUNE

SCAN

123456

1. Balance: Press to shift sound to the left/right speakers.

2. Fade: Press to shift sound to the rear/front speakers.

FM1

SIDE REW FF

CLK

TAPE

AMS

1 - 2

3. CLK: To set the hour, press and hold CLK. Then press SEEK to

decrease

or increase the

CLK

hours.

To set the minute, press and hold CLK and press TUNE to decrease or increase the minutes.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Entertainment Systems

4. Tape AMS: In tape mode, press and hold to activate Automatic

TAPE

AMS

Music Search (allows you to quickly locate the beginning of the tape selection being played or to skip to the next selection). Then, press REW (for the beginning of the current selection) or FF (to advance to the next selection). The tape MUST have a blank section of at least four seconds duration between programs.

5. Side 1–2: Press to change tape

SIDE 1 - 2

direction.

6. REW (rewind): Press to rewind

REW

the tape.

FF (fast forward): Press to

advance the tape.

7. Memory preset buttons: To set a station: Select frequency band AM/FM1/FM2; tune to a station, press and hold a preset button until sound returns.

Dolby威 noise reduction: Works in tape mode only. Reduces tape

8. noise and hiss; press to activate/deactivate.

9. Scan: Press SCAN to hear a brief sampling of all listenable radio stations or all tape selections. Press again to stop.

10. Tune: Works in radio mode only. Press TUNE

/ to change

frequency down/up

11. Seek: Press and release

/ for previous/next

strong station, selection or track.

12. Power/volume: Press to turn ON/OFF; turn to increase or decrease volume levels.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

13. AM/FM: Press to choose a frequency band in radio mode.

Entertainment Systems

14. Bass: Press decrease/increase the bass output.

15. Treble: Press decrease/increase the treble output.

16. EJ (Eject): Press to eject a tape.

17. Cassette door: Insert a cassette into the cassette door.

PREMIUM AM/FM STEREO/CASSETTE/SINGLE CD

/ to

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Entertainment Systems

1. Power/volume: Press to turn ON/OFF; turn to increase/decrease volume.

2. Scan: Press to hear a brief sampling of all listenable stations, tape selections or CD tracks. Press again to stop.

3. CD Door: Insert a CD with the label side up.

CD units are designed to play commercially pressed 12 cm (4.75 in) audio compact discs only. Due to technical incompatibility, certain recordable and re-recordable compact discs may not function correctly when used in Ford CD players. Irregular shaped CDs, CDs with a scratch protection film attached, and CDs with homemade paper (adhesive) labels should not be inserted into the CD player. The label may peel and cause the CD to become jammed. It is recommended that homemade CDs be identified with permanent felt tip marker rather than adhesive labels. Ballpoint pens may damage CDs. Please contact your dealer for further information.

4. Cassette door: Insert the cassette with the opening to the right.

5. Eject: Press to eject the cassette/CD. The radio will resume playing.

SCAN

6. Tape: Press to start tape play. Press to stop tape during rewind/fast forward.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Entertainment Systems

CD: Press to start CD play. With the dual media audio, press CD to toggle between single CD and CD changer play (if equipped).

7. Mute: Press to MUTE playing media; press again return to playing media.

8. Auto: Press to set first six strongest stations (if available) into AM, FM1 or FM2 memory buttons; press again to return to normal stations.

9. Clock: Press and hold to set the clock. Press the

decrease hours or SEEK increase hours. Press the TUNE to decrease minutes or TUNE

increase minutes. If your vehicle has a stand alone clock this control will not function.

10. Balance: Press BAL; then press SEL left/right speakers.

/ to shift sound to the

SEEK to

Fade: Press FADE; then press SEL rear/front speakers.

11. Memory preset buttons: To set a station: Select frequency band AM/FM, tune to a station, press and hold a preset button until sound returns.

/ to shift sound to the

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Entertainment Systems

12. Shuffle (CD): Press to play tracks in random order.

13. Compression (CD): Press to bring soft and loud passages together for a more consistent listening level.

14. Works in tape mode only. Reduces tape noise and hiss; press to activate/deactivate.

The Dolby威 noise reduction system is manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. Dolby威 and the double-D symbol are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.

15. Side 1–2: Works in tape mode only. Press to play reverse side of the tape.

Dolby威 noise reduction:

16. Fast Forward (FF): Press for a slow advance, press and hold for a fast advance.

17. Rewind (REW): Press for a slow rewind, press and hold for a fast rewind.

18. Select (SEL): Use with Bass, Treble, Balance and Fade controls.

19. Bass: Press BASS; then press SEL

/ to decrease/increase

the bass output.

REW

SEL

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Treble: Press TREB; then press SEL

/ to decrease/increase

the treble output.

Entertainment Systems

20. Tune: Works in radio mode only. Press TUNE

/ to change

frequency down/up.

21. Seek: Press and release SEEK

/ for previous/next

strong station, selection or track.

22. AM/FM: Press to select AM/FM1/FM2 frequency band.

PREMIUM IN-DASH SIX CD SOUND SYSTEM

SEEK

TUNE

SEEK

TUNE

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Entertainment Systems

1. Seek: Press and release SEEK strong station, or track of current

disc.

2. Rewind: Press for a slow rewind, press and hold for a fast rewind.

Fast forward: Press for a slow advance, press and hold for a fast advance.

3. Comp (Compression): In CD mode, press to adjust the soft and loud passages together for a more consistent listening level. Press the COMP control until COMP ON is displayed.

4. Mute: Press to MUTE playing media; press again return to playing media. In CD mode, MUTE acts as a pause feature.

5. Eject: Press to eject a CD. Press and hold to auto eject all loaded discs.

6. Bass: Press BASS; then press SEL the bass output.

Treble: Press TREB; then press SEL the treble output.

/ for previous/next

/ to decrease/increase

7. Select: Use with Bass, Treble, Balance and Fade controls to adjust levels. Use with MENU to set the clock and engage RDS.

8. Balance: Press BAL; then press SEL left/right speakers.

/ to shift sound to the

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Entertainment Systems

Fade: Press FADE; then press SEL rear/front speakers.

9. Menu: Press MENU and SEL to access clock mode, RDS on/off, Traffic, Program type, Show type and Compression modes.

Traffic: Allows you to hear traffic broadcasts. With the feature ON, press SEEK or SCAN to find a station broadcasting a traffic report (if it is broadcasting RDS data). Traffic information is not available in most

U.S. markets.

FIND Program type: Allows you to search RDS-equipped stations for a certain category of music format: Classic, Country, Info, Jazz, Oldies, R&B, Religious, Rock, Soft, Top 40.

Show TYPE: Displays the station’s call letters and format.

Compression: Brings soft and loud CD passages together for a more

consistent listening level.

Setting the clock: Press MENU until SELECT HOUR or SELECT MINUTE is displayed. Use SEL to manually increase (

(

10. Memory presets: To set a station: Select frequency band AM/FM; tune to a station, press and hold a preset button until sound returns. In CD mode, press to move between CDs. This radio is equipped with six station memory preset controls which allow you to set up to six AM stations and 12 FM stations (six in FM1 and six in FM2).

11. CD: Press to select CD mode.

Seamless play: In CD mode, the transition between the end of one CD and the beginning of another will not contain delay time unless SEEK or a preset control is pressed.

12. AM/FM: Press to select a frequency band in radio mode.

/ to shift sound to the

) or decrease

) the hours/minutes. Press MENU again to disengage clock mode.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Entertainment Systems

Autostore: Allows you to set the strongest local radio stations without losing your original manually set preset stations for AM/FM1/FM2 . Press and momentarily hold AM/FM. AUTOSTORE will flash on the display. When the six strongest stations are filled, the station stored in preset 1 will begin playing. If there are less than six strong stations, the system will store the last one in the remaining presets. Press again to disengage.

13. Power/volume: Press to turn ON/OFF; turn to increase or decrease volume levels.

14. Load: Press to load a CD. Press and hold to load up to six discs.

15. Shuffle: Press to play tracks in random order. Press SHUF to cycle through SHUF TRAC, SHUF DISC or SHUF OFF.

16. Scan: Press to hear a brief sampling of all listenable stations or CD tracks. Press again to stop.

17. Disc/Tune: Radio: Press or to manually tune down or up

the frequency band. CD: Press

18. CD door: Insert a CD label side up.

or to select the previous or next track on the CD.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Entertainment Systems

CD CHANGER (IF EQUIPPED)

Your CD changer is in one of the following locations:

• Behind the passenger’s seat

• In the center console

• Under the rear bench on the driver’s side (see instructions below)

• In the stowage bin on the passenger’s side

1. Slide the door to access the CD changer magazine.

2. Press

to eject the magazine.

3. Turn the magazine (A) over.

4. Using the disc holder release knob (C), pull the disc holder (B) out of the magazine.

Do not pull too hard on the disc holder as the disc holder may come completely out of the magazine. If this happens, reinsert the disc holder back into the magazine while pressing on the lever.

5. Line up the CD with the groove of the disc holder. Ensure that the label on the CD faces downwards.

6. Press the disc holder until it locks securely into the magazine.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Entertainment Systems

Ensure that the disc holder is evenly inserted and at the same level as the magazine (A). The unit will not operate if the disc holder is not inserted at the same level (B).

If your CD changer is located under the rear bench, the following instructions apply to load discs:

1. Load the discs into the magazine slots (numbered 1 through 6 on the window) one at a time with labeled surfaces upward. (The holders DO NOT pull out. )

2. Begin with the bottom slot number 1.

3. Insert the loaded magazine into the CD changer with the arrow pointing toward the changer.

To remove discs:

1. Slide the corresponding lever on the opposite side of the magazine window. The disc will partially eject.

2. Remove the disc.

Radio power must be turned on to play the CDs in the changer. The magazine may be stored in the glove box when not being used.

The CD magazine may be inserted or ejected with the radio power off.

ONLY use the magazine supplied with the CD changer, other types will damage the unit.

Keep the CD changer door closed. Coins and foreign objects will damage the CD player and void your audio system warranty.

6 5 4

6 COMPACT DISC MAGAZINE

3 2 1

RADIO FREQUENCIES

AM and FM frequencies are established by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Canadian Radio and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC). Those frequencies are:

AM - 530, 540–1700, 1710 kHz

FM- 87.7, 87.9–107.7, 107.9 MHz

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Entertainment Systems

RADIO RECEPTION FACTORS

There are three factors that can affect radio reception:

• Distance/strength: The further you travel from an FM station, the weaker the signal and the weaker the reception.

• Terrain: Hills, mountains, tall buildings, power lines, electric fences, traffic lights and thunderstorms can interfere with your reception.

• Station overload: When you pass a broadcast tower, a stronger signal may overtake a weaker one and play while the weak station frequency is displayed.

CASSETTE/PLAYER CARE

Do:

• Use only cassettes that are 90 minutes long or less.

• Tighten very loose tapes by inserting a finger or pencil into the hole

and turning the hub.

• Remove loose labels before inserting tapes.

• Allow tapes which have been subjected to extreme heat, humidity or

cold to reach a moderate temperature before playing.

• Clean the cassette player head with a cassette cleaning cartridge after 10–12 hours of play to maintain good sound/operation.

Don’t:

• Expose tapes to direct sunlight, extreme humidity, heat or cold.

• Leave tapes in the cassette player for a long time when not being

played.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Entertainment Systems

CD/CD PLAYER CARE

Do:

• Handle discs by their edges only. Never touch the playing surface.

• Inspect discs before playing. Clean only with an approved CD cleaner

and wipe from the center out.

Don’t:

• Expose discs to direct sunlight or heat sources for extended periods of time.

• Insert more than one disc into each slot of the CD changer magazine.

• Clean using a circular motion.

CD units are designed to play commercially pressed 12 cm (4.75 in) audio compact discs only. Due to technical incompatibility, certain recordable and re-recordable compact discs may not function correctly when used in Ford CD players. Irregular shaped CDs, CDs with a scratch protection film attached, and CDs with homemade paper (adhesive) labels should not be inserted into the CD player. The label may peel and cause the CD to become jammed. It is recommended that homemade CDs be identified with permanent felt tip marker rather than adhesive labels. Ball point pens may damage CDs. Please contact your dealer for further information.

AUDIO SYSTEM WARRANTY AND SERVICE

Refer to the Warranty Guide for audio system warranty information. If service is necessary, see your dealer or qualified technician.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Climate Controls

HEATER ONLY SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)

1. Fan speed adjustment: Controls

the volume of air circulated in the vehicle.

2. Temperature selection:

Controls the temperature of the airflow in the vehicle.

3. Air flow selections: Controls the direction of the airflow in the

vehicle. See the following for a brief description on each control.

: Distributes outside air through the instrument panel vents.

OFF: Outside air is shut out and the fan will not operate.

: Distributes outside air through the instrument panel vents and the

floor vents.

: Distributes outside air through the floor vents.

: Distributes outside air through the windshield defroster vents and

floor vents.

: Distributes outside air through the windshield defroster vents.

Operating tips

• To reduce fog build up on the windshield during humid weather, place the air flow selector in the

• To reduce humidity build up inside the vehicle during cold or warm weather, do not drive with the air flow selector in the OFF position.

• Under normal weather conditions, do not leave the air flow selector in OFF when the vehicle is parked. This allows the vehicle to “breathe” using the outside air inlet vents.

• Do not put objects under the front seats that will interfere with the air flow to the back seats.

• Remove any snow, ice or leaves from the air intake area at the base of the windshield.

position.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Climate Controls

To aid in side window defogging/demisting in cold weather:

1. Select

2. Set the temperature control to full heat

3. Set the fan speed to the highest setting.

4. Direct the outer instrument panel vents towards the side windows

To increase airflow to the outer instrument panel vents, close the vents located in the middle of the instrument panel.

Do not place objects on top of the instrument panel as these objects may become projectiles in a collision or sudden stop.

MANUAL HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM

1. Fan speed adjustment: Controls

the volume of air circulated in the vehicle.

2. Temperature selection:

Controls the temperature of the airflow in the vehicle.

3. Air flow selections: Controls the direction of the airflow in the

vehicle. See the following for a brief description on each control.

MAX A/C: Uses recirculated air to cool the vehicle. Air flows from the instrument panel vents only.

A/C: Uses outside air to cool the vehicle. Air flows from the instrument panel vents only.

: Distributes outside air through the instrument panel vents.

OFF: Outside air is shut out and the fan will not operate.

: Distributes outside air through the instrument panel vents and the

floor vents.

: Distributes outside air through the floor vents.

: Distributes outside air through the windshield defroster vents and

floor vents.

: Distributes outside air through the windshield defroster vents.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Climate Controls

Operating tips

• To reduce fog build up on the windshield during humid weather, place the air flow selector in the

• To reduce humidity build up inside the vehicle: do not drive with the air flow selector in the OFF or MAX A/C position.

• Under normal weather conditions, do not leave the air flow selector in MAX A/C or OFF when the vehicle is parked. This allows the vehicle to “breathe” using the outside air inlet vents.

• Do not put objects under the front seats that will interfere with the airflow to the back seats.

• Remove any snow, ice or leaves from the air intake area at the base of the windshield.

To aid in side window defogging/demisting in cold weather:

1. Select

2. Select A/C

3. Modulate the temperature control to maintain comfort.

4. Set the fan speed to the highest setting.

5. Direct the outer instrument panel vents towards the side windows

To increase airflow to the outer instrument panel vents, close the vents located in the middle of the instrument panel.

position.

Do not place objects on top of the instrument panel as these objects may become projectiles in a collision or sudden stop.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Lights

HEADLAMP CONTROL

Turns the lamps off.

Turns on the parking lamps, instrument panel lamps, license plate lamps and tail lamps.

Turns the headlamps on.

Autolamp control (if equipped)

The autolamp system provides light sensitive automatic on-off control of the exterior lights normally controlled by the headlamp control.

The autolamp system also keeps the lights on for approximately 20 seconds after the ignition switch is turned to OFF.

To change the delay time of the autolamp feature, do the following:

1. Start with the ignition in OFF and the autolamps selected.

2. Deselect the autolamps.

3. Put the ignition in RUN.

4. Put the ignition in OFF.

5. Select the autolamps. Steps 2 through 5 must be performed within a 10 second period. At this point, the headlamps and parking lamps will turn on.

6. Deselect the autolamps after the desired autolamp delay time (maximum of 3 minutes). At this point, the headlamps and parking lamps will turn off.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Lights

Foglamp control (if equipped)

The headlamp control also operates the foglamps. The foglamps can be turned on only when the headlamp

control is in the position and the high beams are not

turned on.

Pull headlamp control towards you to turn foglamps on. The foglamp indicator light parklamps are on.

Daytime running lamps (DRL) (if equipped)

Turns the headlamps on with a reduced output.

To activate:

• the ignition must be in the ON position and

• the headlamp control is in the OFF, parking lamp or autolamp

position.

Always remember to turn on your headlamps at dusk or during

inclement weather. The Daytime Running Lamp (DRL) system does not activate with your tail lamps and generally may not provide adequate lighting during these conditions. Failure to activate your headlamps under these conditions may result in a collision.

, or

will illuminate when the switch is pulled and the

High beams

Push the lever toward the instrument panel to activate. Pull the lever towards you to deactivate.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Lights

Flash to pass

Pull toward you slightly to activate and release to deactivate.

PANEL DIMMER CONTROL

Use to adjust the brightness of the instrument panel and all applicable switches in the vehicle during headlamp and parklamp operation.

Move the control to the full upright position, past detent, to turn on the interior lamps.

Move the control to the full down position, past detent, to prevent the interior lights from illuminating when the doors are opened.

AIMING THE HEADLAMPS

The headlamps on your vehicle are properly aimed at the assembly plant. If your vehicle has been in an accident the alignment of your headlamps should be checked by a qualified service technician.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

TURN SIGNAL CONTROL

• Push down to activate the left turn signal.

• Push up to activate the right turn signal.

COURTESY/READING LAMPS (IF EQUIPPED)

The dome lamp lights when the control is in the DOOR (left) position, any door is open, the instrument panel switch is pushed past the detent and when any of the remote entry controls are pressed while the ignition is off.

The reading lamps can be turned on by pressing the rocker controls next to each lamp.

Lights

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Lights

MAP LAMPS

With trip computer

Without trip computer

To turn on the map lamps, press the control next to each lamp.

BULBS

Replacing exterior bulbs

Check the operation of all the bulbs frequently.

Using the right bulbs

Replacement bulbs are specified in the chart below. Headlamp bulbs must be marked with an authorized “D.O.T.” for North America and an “E” for Europe to assure lamp performance, light brightness and pattern and safe visibility. The correct bulbs will not damage the lamp assembly or void the lamp assembly warranty and will provide quality bulb burn time.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Lights

Function Number of

bulbs

Headlamps (aerodynamic) 2 9007 Headlamps (sealed beam) 2 H6054 Park/turn 2 3157 Sidemarker 2 194 Tail/stop/turn/sidemarker 2 3157 K Backup 2 3156K High-mount stoplamp 1 921 Foglamp 2 899 License plate lamp 2 168 Cargo lamp 2 906 Roofmarker 5 194 Rear fender clearance* 4 Interior visor lamp (if equipped) 4 194 Rear identification 3 194 All replacement bulbs are clear in color except where noted. To replace all instrument panel lights - see your dealer

(a)

Replace entire lamp assembly; bulb is not serviceable.

* Dual rear wheels or if equipped.

Replacing headlamp bulbs (aerodynamic)

1. Make sure that the headlamp control is in the OFF position open the

hood.

2. Disconnect the electrical connector from the bulb by pulling rearward.

3. Remove bulb retainer ring by

turning it counterclockwise, then slide the ring off the plastic base

4. Pull bulb out of headlamp

assembly.

Trade number

(a)

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Lights

Handle a halogen headlamp bulb carefully and keep out of

children’s reach. Grasp the bulb only by its plastic base and do not touch the glass. The oil from your hand could cause the bulb to break the next time the headlamps are operated.

Install the new bulb(s) in reverse order.

Replacing headlamp bulbs (sealed beam)

1. Make sure headlamp switch is in OFF position and open the hood.

2. Remove the two screws and parking lamp/side marker assembly by pulling gently

3. Disconnect the electrical connectors from the parking lamp/side marker assembly and remove.

4. Remove the four bolts and headlamp bezel.

5. Remove the four screws and the headlamp retaining ring from headlamp.

6. Disconnect the electrical connector and remove headlamp.

Install the new bulb(s) in reverse order.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Lights

Replacing front parking/turn signal bulbs

1. Make sure headlamp switch is in OFF position and open the hood.

2. Remove the two screws and carefully disengage parking lamp/turn signal assembly from the vehicle.

3. Rotate bulb socket counterclockwise and remove from lamp assembly.

4. Carefully pull bulb straight out of the socket and push in the new bulb.

Install the new bulb(s) in reverse order.

Replacing tail lamp/turn/backup lamp bulbs — F250/F350 only

1. Make sure the headlamp switch is in the OFF position and then open the tailgate to expose the lamp assemblies.

2. Remove the two bolts from the tail lamp assembly and carefully pull the lamp assembly from the tailgate pillar by releasing the two retaining tabs.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Lights

3. Rotate the bulb socket counterclockwise and remove from lamp assembly.

4. Pull the bulb straight out of the socket.

Install the new bulb(s) in reverse order.

Replacing brake/tail/backup lamp bulbs — F450/F550 only

1. Make sure the headlamp switch is in the OFF position.

2. Remove the four screws and the lamp lens from lamp assembly.

3. Carefully pull the bulb straight out of the socket and push in the new bulb.

Replacing cargo lamp and high-mount brakelamp bulbs

1. Make sure the headlamp switch is in the OFF position.

2. Remove the two screws and lamp assembly from vehicle as wiring permits.

3. Remove the bulb socket by rotating counterclockwise.

4. Pull the bulb straight out of the socket.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Lights

Replacing roof marker bulbs

1. Make sure the headlamp switch is in the OFF position.

2. Remove the screw and lens from the lamp assembly.

3. Pull the bulb straight out of the socket.

Replacing foglamp bulbs (if equipped)

1. Make sure the headlamp switch is in the OFF position.

2. Remove the bulb socket from the foglamp by turning counterclockwise.

3. Disconnect the electrical connector from the foglamp bulb.

Install the new bulb(s) in reverse order.

Replacing license plate lamp bulbs

The license plate bulbs are located behind the rear bumper. To change the license plate lamp bulbs:

1. Reach behind the rear bumper to locate the bulb.

2. Twist the bulb socket counterclockwise and carefully pull to remove it from the lamp assembly.

3. Pull out the old bulb from the socket and push in the new bulb.

4. Install the bulb socket in lamp assembly by turning it clockwise.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driver Controls

MULTI-FUNCTION LEVER

Windshield wiper: Rotate the end of the control away from you to increase the speed of the wipers; rotate towards you to decrease the speed of the wipers.

Windshield washer: Push the end of the stalk:

• briefly: causes a single swipe of the wipers without washer fluid.

• a quick push and hold: the wipers will swipe three times with washer fluid.

• a long push and hold: the wipers and washer fluid will be activated for up to ten seconds.

Changing the wiper blades

1. Pull the wiper arm away from the

vehicle. Turn the blade at an angle from the wiper arm. Push the lock pin manually to release the blade and pull the wiper blade down toward the windshield to remove it from the arm.

2. Attach the new wiper to the

wiper arm and press it into place until a click is heard.

3. Replace wiper blades every 6 months for optimum performance.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driver Controls

TILT STEERING WHEEL (IF EQUIPPED)

To adjust the steering wheel:

1. Pull and hold the steering wheel

release control toward you.

2. Move the steering wheel up or

down until you find the desired location.

3. Release the steering wheel

release control. This will lock the steering wheel in position.

Never adjust the steering wheel when the vehicle is moving.

TRANSMISSION CONTROL

Tow/Haul feature

(5–speed automatic transmission) (if equipped)

To activate, press the transmission control switch (TCS) located on the gearshift. The ON indicator light will illuminate on the gearshift. The transmission will operate in all gears. Press the transmission control switch again to deactivate Tow Haul mode. When you shut off and re-start your vehicle, the transmission will automatically return to normal mode with Tow Haul feature deactivated.

Overdrive cancel

(4–speed automatic transmission) (if equipped)

To deactivate overdrive, press the transmission control switch (TCS) located on the gearshift. The OFF indicator light will illuminate on the gearshift. The transmission will operate in all gears except overdrive. Press the transmission control switch again to return to normal overdrive mode. When you shut off and re-start your vehicle, the transmission will automatically return to normal (Overdrive) mode.

For additional information about the gearshift and the transmission control switch operation refer to the Driving chapter.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driver Controls

ILLUMINATED VISOR MIRROR (IF EQUIPPED)

Lift the mirror cover to turn on the visor mirror lamps.

OVERHEAD CONSOLE (IF EQUIPPED)

The appearance of your vehicle’s overhead console will vary according to your option package.

Storage compartment (if equipped)

Press the OPEN control to open the storage compartment. The door will open slightly and can be moved to full open.

The storage compartment may be used to secure sunglasses or a similar object.

Install a garage door opener (if equipped)

The storage compartment can be used to hold a variety of aftermarket garage door openers. To install your garage door opener:

1. Open the storage compartment

door.

2. Remove the storage clip and stow

it away.

3. Place the Velcro娂 strip onto the

back of the garage door opener control.

4. Adhere the back of garage door

opener control to the Velcro娂 strip found inside the storage compartment. Make sure that the controls for the garage door opener face outward.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

5. Place the height adjusters onto

the back of the storage compartment door. Add as many adjusters needed to activate the garage door opener.

6. Close the storage compartment

door and press the garage door opener control to verify that it works. If not, you may need to add more adjusters.

One-touch moon roof (if equipped)

With trip computer

Without trip computer

Driver Controls

To open the moon roof using the one-touch operation switch:

• Press and release the rear portion of the one-touch moon roof control.

• To halt motion at any point during one-touch opening, press the

control a second time.

To close the moon roof:

• Press and hold the front portion of the moon roof control. Release the control to stop the roof closing at any position.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driver Controls

To tilt the moon roof:

• To tilt into the vent position (when the glass panel is closed), press and hold the front portion of the moon roof control. To close from the vent position, press and hold the rear portion of the control until the glass panel stops moving.

Sliding shade:

• The moon roof has a built-in sliding shade that can be manually opened or closed when the glass panel is shut.

• To close the shade, pull it toward the front of the vehicle.

When closing the moon roof, you should verify that it is free of obstructions and ensure that children and/or pets are not in the

proximity of the moon roof opening.

AUXILIARY POWER POINT

Power outlets are designed for accessory plugs only. Do not hang any type of accessory or accessory bracket from the plug. Improper use of the power outlet can cause damage not covered by your warranty.

The auxiliary power point is located on the instrument panel.

Do not plug optional electrical accessories into the cigarette lighter. Use the power point.

POWER POINT

POWER WINDOWS (IF EQUIPPED)

When closing the power

windows, you should verify they are free of obstructions and ensure that children and/or pets are not in the proximity of the window openings.

Press and hold the bottom part of the rocker switch to open the window. Press and hold the top part of the rocker switch to close the window.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driver Controls

One touch down

Allows the driver’s window to open fully without holding the control down. Press completely down on AUTO and release quickly. Press again to stop.

Window lock (if equipped)

The window lock feature allows only the driver to operate the power windows.

To lock out all the window controls except for the driver’s press the left side of the control. Press the right side to restore the window controls.

Accessory delay (if equipped)

With accessory delay, the window switches may be used for up to ten minutes after the ignition switch is turned to the OFF position or until any door is opened.

POWER SIDE VIEW MIRRORS (IF EQUIPPED)

To adjust your mirrors:

1. Select L to adjust the left mirror or R to adjust the right mirror.

2. Move the control in the direction you wish to tilt the mirror.

3. Return to the center position to disable the adjust function.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driver Controls

Heated outside mirrors (if equipped)

The main mirror glass is heated automatically to remove ice, mist and fog and activates when the vehicle is started.

Note: The mirrors may be hot to the touch but will not burn. This is a normal condition.

The mirror heating elements are designed to operate regardless of the geographic location of the vehicle. There is no switch to turn on, or other operator involvement required other than to start the vehicle.

The spotter mirror, below the main mirror, is not heated and must be adjusted manually.

Do not remove ice from the mirrors with a scraper or attempt to readjust the mirror glass if it is frozen in place. These actions could cause damage to the glass and mirrors.

Signal mirrors (if equipped)

Mirror mounted side turn signal indicator (if equipped)

When the vehicle turn signals are activated, the outer portion of the mirror housing will blink amber.

The turn signal feature can be seen by other drivers who may approach from the rear of the vehicle.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driver Controls

Clearance lamps (if equipped)

Illuminates when the headlamps or parking lamps are switched on.

This provides additional visibility of your vehicle to other drivers on the road.

Fold-away mirrors

The mirrors can be manually folded forward or backwards for narrow spaces like driving through an automatic car wash or backing out of a garage with the trailer tow mirror.

The telescoping feature (if equipped) allows the mirror to extend approximately 76 mm (3 inches). This feature is especially useful to the driver when towing a trailer.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driver Controls

POWER ADJUSTABLE FOOT PEDALS (IF EQUIPPED)

The accelerator and brake pedal should only be adjusted when the vehicle is stopped and the gearshift lever is in the P (Park) position.

Press and hold the rocker control to adjust accelerator and brake pedal toward you or away from you.

The adjustment allows for approximately 73 mm (3 inches) of maximum travel.

Never adjust the accelerator and brake pedal with feet on the

pedals while the vehicle is moving.

SPEED CONTROL (IF EQUIPPED)

With speed control set, you can maintain a speed of 48 km/h (30 mph) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator pedal. Speed control does not work at speeds below 48 km/h (30 mph).

Do not use the speed control in heavy traffic or on roads that

are winding, slippery or unpaved.

Setting speed control

The controls for using your speed control are located on the steering wheel for your convenience.

1. Press the ON control and release it.

2. Accelerate to the desired speed.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driver Controls

3. Press the SET ACCEL control and release it.

4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.

5. The indicator light on the instrument cluster will turn on.

Note:

• Vehicle speed may vary momentarily when driving up and down a steep hill.

• If the vehicle speed increases above the set speed on a downhill, you may want to apply the brakes to reduce the speed.

• If the vehicle speed decreases more than 16 km/h (10 mph) below your set speed on an uphill, your speed control will disengage.

Resuming a set speed

Press the RES (resume) control and release it. This will automatically return the vehicle to the previously set speed. The RES control will not work if the vehicle speed is not faster than 48 km/h (30 mph).

RES

ACCEL

COAST

RES

SET

ACCEL

COAST

SET

Increasing speed while using speed control

There are two ways to set a higher speed:

• Press and hold the SET ACCEL control until you get to the desired speed, then release the control. You can also use the SET

RES

SET

ACCEL

COAST

ACCEL control to operate the Tap-Up function. Press and release this control to increase the vehicle set speed in increments by

1.6 km/h (1 mph).

• Use the accelerator pedal to get to the desired speed. When the vehicle reaches that speed press and release the SET ACCEL control.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driver Controls

Reducing speed while using speed control

There are two ways to reduce a set speed:

• Press and hold the COAST control until you get to the desired speed, then release the control. You can also use the COAST control to operate the Tap-Down function. Press and release this control to decrease the vehicle set speed in increments by

1.6 km/h (1 mph).

• Depress the brake pedal until the desired vehicle speed is reached, press the SET ACCEL control.

Turning off speed control

There are two ways to turn off the speed control:

• Depress the brake pedal or the clutch pedal (if equipped). This will not erase your vehicle’s previously set speed.

• Press the speed control OFF control.

Note: When you turn off the speed control or the ignition, your speed control set speed memory is erased.

RES

SET

ACCEL

COAST

RES

SET

ACCEL

COAST

Indicator light (if equipped)

This light comes on when either the SET ACCEL or RES controls are pressed. The vehicle speed must be at or above 48 km/h (30 mph). It turns off when the speed control OFF control is pressed, the brake or clutch is applied, or the ignition is turned to the OFF position.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driver Controls

CENTER CONSOLE (IF EQUIPPED)

Your vehicle may be equipped with a variety of console features. These include:

• Utility compartment with cassette/CD holder

• Coin holder

• Pen holder

• Writing surface

Use only soft cups in the cupholder. Hard objects can

injure you in a collision.

CELL PHONE USE

The use of Mobile Communications Equipment has become increasingly important in the conduct of business and personal affairs. However, drivers must not compromise their own or others’ safety when using such equipment. Mobile Communications can enhance personal safety and security when appropriately used, particularly in emergency situations. Safety must be paramount when using mobile communications equipment to avoid negating these benefits.

Mobile Communication Equipment includes, but is not limited to cellular phones, pagers, portable email devices, in vehicle communications systems, telematics devices and portable two-way radios.

A driver’s first responsibility is the safe operation of the vehicle.

The most important thing you can do to prevent a crash is to avoid distractions and pay attention to the road. Wait until it is safe to operate Mobile Communications Equipment.

TRIP COMPUTER (IF EQUIPPED)

The trip computer tells you about the condition of your vehicle through a constant monitor of vehicle systems. You may select display features on the trip computer for a display of status.

The appearance of your vehicle’s trip computer may differ depending on your vehicle’s option package, but the functions are the same.

The trip computer only operates with the ignition in the ON position. Trip computer features are as follows:

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Driver Controls

Selectable features

English/metric display

Press this control to change the trip computer display between metric and English units.

Mode control

Each press of the MODE control will display a different feature as follows:

Average fuel economy. The display will indicate the vehicle’s average fuel economy in liters/100 km (or miles/gallon) since the average fuel economy was last reset.

If you calculate your average fuel economy by dividing liters of fuel used by 100 kilometers traveled (miles traveled by gallons used), your figure may be different than displayed for the following reasons:

• your vehicle was not perfectly level during fill-up

• differences in the automatic shut-off points on the fuel pumps at

service stations

• variations in top-off procedure from one fill-up to another

• rounding of the displayed values to the nearest liter (gallon)

To reset the average fuel economy:

1. Press the MODE control repeatedly until average fuel economy is displayed (this is the only resettable display).

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Driver Controls

2. Press the E/M and MODE controls simultaneously. The display will illuminate the “AVG” indicator. While the indicator is lit, release both controls to reset the average fuel economy.

Fuel range. This function estimates approximately how far you can drive with the fuel remaining in your tank under normal driving conditions. Remember to turn the ignition OFF when refueling to allow this feature to correctly detect the added fuel.

The DTE function will flash for 5 seconds when you have approximately:

• 80 km (50 miles) left before you run out of fuel

• 40 km (25 miles)

• 16 km (10 miles)

DTE is calculated using a running average fuel economy, which is based on your recent driving history of 800 km (500 miles). This value is not the same as the average fuel economy display. The running average fuel economy is reinitialized to a factory default value if the battery is disconnected.

Outside air temperature

The temperature can be displayed in Centigrade or Fahrenheit by pressing the E/M control.

If the outside temperature falls below 3°C (38°F), the display will alternate from “ICE” to the outside temperature at a two second rate for one minute.

Off. In this mode the display is off.

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Driver Controls

Compass

The compass display is contained in the overhead console. The vehicle heading is displayed as one of N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W and NW.

The compass heading is displayed in average fuel economy modes, fuel range modes and temperature modes.

The compass reading may be affected when you drive near large buildings, bridges, power lines and powerful broadcast antennas. Magnetic or metallic objects placed in or on the vehicle may also affect compass accuracy. Adjustments may need to be made to the zone and calibration of the compass.

Compass zone adjustment

1. Determine which magnetic zone you are in for your geographic location by referring to the zone map.

2. Locate the trip computer on the overhead console.

3. Turn ignition to the ON position.

4. Press and hold both trip computer controls. After approximately four seconds, the trip computer will enter zone setting mode. Zone setting mode is indicated when the display lights the “ZONE” indicator.

5. Release both controls. Subsequent pressing of either control will increment the zone. Press the control repeatedly until the correct zone setting for your geographic location is displayed on the trip computer.

6. To exit the zone setting mode and save the displayed zone in memory, release both controls for greater than five seconds.

123

6 7 8 9 1011

14 13

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Driver Controls

Compass calibration adjustment

Perform this adjustment in an open area free from steel structures and high voltage lines.

For optimum calibration, turn off all electrical accessories (heater/air conditioning, wipers, etc.) and make sure all vehicle doors are shut.

1. Locate the trip computer located in the overhead console.

2. Start the vehicle.

3. Press and hold both trip computer controls. After approximately eight seconds, the trip computer will enter CAL mode. CAL mode is indicated when the display lights the “CAL” indicator.

4. Release both controls. The display will return to normal, except that the CAL indicator will remain lit until the compass is successfully calibrated.

5. Slowly drive the vehicle in a circle (less than 5 km/h [3 mph]) until the CAL indicator turns off. It may take up to five circles to complete calibration.

6. The compass is now calibrated.

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Driver Controls

TAILGATE LOCK (IF EQUIPPED)

Your vehicle may be equipped with a tailgate lock designed to prevent theft of the tailgate.

• Insert ignition key and turn to the right to engage lock.

• Turn ignition key to the left to unlock.

Tailgate removal

Your tailgate is removable to allow more room for loading.

1. Lower the tailgate.

2. Use a screwdriver to pry the

spring clip (on each connector) past the head of the support screw. Disconnect cable.

3. Disconnect the other cable.

4. Lift tailgate to a 45 degree angle.

5. Lift right side off of its hinge.

6. Lift left side off of its hinge.

To install, follow the removal procedures in reverse order.

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Locks and Security

KEYS

The key operates all locks on your vehicle. In case of loss, replacement keys are available from your dealer.

You should always carry a second key with you in a safe place in case you require it in an emergency.

POWER DOOR LOCKS (IF EQUIPPED)

Press control to unlock all doors.

Press control to lock all doors.

Smart locks (if equipped)

This feature prevents you from locking yourself out of the vehicle if your key is still in the ignition.

When you open the driver’s door and you lock the vehicle with the power door locks, all the doors will lock, then the driver’s door will automatically unlock reminding you that your key is still in the ignition.

The vehicle can still be locked, with the key in the ignition, using the manual lock button on the door, locking the driver’s door with a key, or using the lock button on the remote entry transmitter (if equipped).

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Locks and Security

Childproof door locks

• When these locks are set, the rear doors cannot be opened from the inside.

• The rear doors can be opened from the outside when the doors are unlocked.

The childproof locks are located on rear edge of each rear door and must be set separately for each door. Setting the lock for one door will not automatically set the lock for both doors.

• Move lock control up to engage the childproof lock.

• Move control down to disengage childproof locks.

REMOTE ENTRY SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules and with RS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Locks and Security

Your vehicle is equipped with a remote entry system which allows you to:

• unlock the vehicle doors without a key.

• lock all the vehicle doors without a key.

• activate the personal alarm.

If there is any potential remote keyless entry problem with your vehicle, ensure ALL remote entry transmitters are taken to the dealership, to aid in troubleshooting.

Unlocking the doors

1. Press and release to unlock the driver’s door. Note: The interior

lamps will illuminate.

2. Press

doors.

Locking the doors

1. Press and release to lock all the doors. The parking lamps will flash

if all the doors are closed and locked.

2. Press

doors are closed and locked. Note: The doors will lock again, the horn will chirp once, and the parking lamps will flash once more.

If any of the doors are not properly closed the horn will make two quick chirps.

and release again within three seconds to unlock all the

and release again within three seconds to confirm that all the

Power door lock disable feature (if equipped)

The UNLOCK inside the vehicle when:

• the ignition has been turned to the OFF position, and

• 20 seconds elapse after all vehicle doors are closed and locked using

the remote entry transmitter, or the power door lock control (while the accompanying door is open).

feature on your power door locks will not work from

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Locks and Security

The UNLOCK feature will work again after:

• a door has become ajar,

• the ignition is turned to the ON position,

• or using the UNLOCK

equipped).

This feature is initially deactivated, but may be activated by taking your vehicle to an authorized Ford dealer.

Sounding a panic alarm

Press or ON to deactivate.

Note: The panic alarm will only operate when the ignition is in the OFF position.

Replacing the battery

The remote entry transmitter uses one coin type three-volt lithium battery CR2032 or equivalent. The typical operating range for your remote entry transmitter is approximately 10 meters (33 feet). A decrease in the operating range could be caused by:

• weather conditions,

• nearby radio towers,

• structures around the vehicle and

• other vehicles parked next to the vehicle.

To replace the battery:

1. Twist a thin coin between the two

halves of the remote entry transmitter near the key ring. DO NOT TAKE THE RUBBER COVER AND CIRCUIT BOARD OFF THE FRONT HOUSING OF THE REMOTE ENTRY TRANSMITTER.

to activate the alarm. Press again or turn the ignition to ACC

control on your remote entry transmitter (if

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Locks and Security

2. Do not wipe off any grease on the

battery terminals on the back surface of the circuit board.

3. Remove the old battery.

4. Insert the new battery. Refer to the diagram inside the remote entry

transmitter for the correct orientation of the battery. Press the battery down to ensure that the battery is fully seated in the battery housing cavity.

5. Snap the two halves back together.

Note: Replacement of the battery will not cause the remote transmitter to become deprogrammed from your vehicle. The remote transmitter should operate normally after battery replacement.

Replacing lost remote entry transmitters

If you would like to have your remote entry transmitter reprogrammed because you lost one, or would like to buy additional remote entry transmitters, you can either reprogram them yourself, or take all remote entry transmitters to your authorized dealer for reprogramming.

How to reprogram your remote entry transmitters

You must have all remote entry transmitters (maximum of four) available before beginning this procedure.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Locks and Security

To reprogram the remote entry transmitters:

1. Ensure the vehicle is

electronically unlocked.

2. Put the key in the ignition.

3. Turn the key from the 2 (LOCK)

position to 3 (OFF).

4. Cycle eight times rapidly (within

10 seconds) between the 3 (OFF) position and 4 (ON). Note: The eighth turn must end in the 4 (ON) position.

5. The doors will lock, then unlock, to confirm that the programming

mode has been activated.

6. Within 20 seconds press any button on the remote entry transmitter.

Note: If more than 20 seconds have passed you will need to start the procedure over again.

7. The doors will lock, then unlock, to confirm that this remote entry

transmitter has been programmed.

8. Repeat Step 6 to program each additional remote entry transmitter.

9. Turn the ignition to the 3 (OFF) position after you have finished

programming all of the remote entry transmitters. Note: After 20 seconds, you will automatically exit the programming mode.

10. The doors will lock, then unlock, to confirm that the programming

mode has been exited.

Illuminated entry

The interior lamps illuminate when the remote entry system is used to unlock the door(s).

The illuminated entry system will turn off the interior lights if:

• the ignition switch is turned to the ON position, or

• the remote transmitter lock control is pressed, or

• after 25 seconds of illumination.

The dome lamp control (if equipped) must not be set to the OFF position for the illuminated entry system to operate.

The inside lights will not turn off if:

• they have been turned on with the dimmer control, or

• any door is open.

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Locks and Security

The battery saver will shut off the interior lamps 30 minutes after the ignition has been turned to the OFF position, 10 minutes after if the dome lamp is off, and 30 minutes after if the dome lamp switch is left on.

Autolock (if equipped)

This feature automatically locks all vehicle doors when the following conditions are met:

• the ignition is in the ON position,

• all doors are closed,

• the brake is pressed before reaching 8 km/h (5 mph) and

• the vehicle is traveling more than 8 km/h (5 mph).

Relock

The autolock feature repeats when the following conditions are met:

• the vehicle’s speed is less than 8 km/h (5 mph), and

• any door is opened then closed while the ignition is in the RUN

position, and

• the brake is pressed before reaching 8 km/h (5 mph), and

• the vehicle is traveling more than 8 km/h (5 mph).

Deactivating/activating the autolock feature

Before following the procedure, make sure that the ignition is OFF and all vehicle doors are closed.

You must complete steps 1-7 within 30 seconds or the procedure will have to be repeated. If the procedure needs to be repeated, you must wait 30 seconds.

1. Turn the ignition key to ON.

2. Press the power door unlock control three times.

3. Turn the ignition key from ON to OFF.

4. Press the power door unlock control three times.

5. Turn the ignition back to ON. The horn will chirp.

6. Press the unlock control, then press the lock control. The horn will

chirp once if autolock was deactivated or twice (one short and one long chirp) if autolock was activated. Note: Pressing the power door lock/unlock control again will toggle between activating and deactivating the autolock feature.

7. Turn the ignition to OFF. The horn will chirp once to confirm the

procedure is complete.

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Seating and Safety Restraints

SEATING

Notes:

Reclining the seatback can cause an occupant to slide under the seat’s safety belt, resulting in severe personal injuries in the

event of a collision.

Do not pile cargo higher than the seatbacks to reduce the risk of injury in a collision or sudden stop.

Full bench seat (if equipped)

• Lift the release bar to move the seat forward or backward. Ensure that the seat is relatched into place.

• Pull up on the lever located at the bottom of the seatback to quickly fold the seatback forward.

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Seating and Safety Restraints

40/20/40 split bench seat (if equipped)

• Lift the track release bar to move the seat forward or backward. Ensure the seat is relatched into place.

• Pull the handle on the side of the seat up to recline the seat.

• Push down the lever located at the bottom of the seatback to quickly fold the seatback forward.

40/20/40 front seat armrest and console (if equipped)

To release the armrest, pull forward on the strap and pull the armrest down. Lift up armrest to return it to a center seatback.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

To gain access to the storage compartment in your armrest, lift the latch to open the lid. The lid cannot be opened in the upright position.

Captain’s chair (if equipped)

• Lift the bar to move the seat forward or rearward. Make sure that the seat is relatched into place.

• To recline the seatback, pull the release lever handle located on the side of the seat up.

• Push down the lever (if equipped) located at the bottom of the seatback to quickly fold the seatback forward.

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Seating and Safety Restraints

Adjusting the front power seat (if equipped)

The control is located on the outboard side of the seat cushion.

Your vehicle will only be equipped with one of the two controls shown.

Press to raise or lower the front portion of the seat cushion.

• Type A

• Type B

Press to raise or lower the rear portion of the seat cushion.

• Type A

• Type B

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Seating and Safety Restraints

• Type A

Press the control to move the seat forward, backward, up or down.

• Type B

Press the control to move the seat forward or backward.

Using the manual lumbar support

For more lumbar support, turn the lumbar support control toward the front of vehicle.

For less lumbar support, turn the lumbar support control toward the rear of vehicle.

Heated seats (if equipped)

To operate the heated seats, do the following:

• Push control to activate.

• Push again to deactivate.

The indicator light on the control will illuminate when activated.

The system automatically shuts off after 10 minutes.

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Seating and Safety Restraints

FOLDING UP THE REAR SEATS (IF EQUIPPED — SUPERCAB ONLY)

The rear seatback has a split 60/40 seat. Each seat cushion can be flipped up into the seatback position.

1. Pull lever to release seat cushion.

2. Rotate seat cushion up until it

locks into vertical storage position.

RETURNING THE SEAT TO SEATING POSITION

Always be sure that the seat is in a latched position, whether the seat is occupied or empty. If not latched, the seat may cause

injury during a sudden stop.

1. Pull lever on the side of the seat to release seat cushion from storage

position.

2. Push seat cushion down until it locks into horizontal position.

SAFETY RESTRAINTS

Safety restraints precautions

Always drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lap belt snug and low across the hips.

To reduce the risk of injury, make sure children sit where they can be properly restrained.

Never let a passenger hold a child on his or her lap while the vehicle is moving. The passenger cannot protect the child from

injury in a collision.

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Seating and Safety Restraints

All occupants of the vehicle, including the driver, should always properly wear their safety belts, even when an air bag (SRS) is

provided.

It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or

outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a safety belt properly.

In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is significantly more likely

to die than a person wearing a safety belt.

Each seating position in your vehicle has a specific safety belt

assembly which is made up of one buckle and one tongue that are designed to be used as a pair. 1) Use the shoulder belt on the outside shoulder only. Never wear the shoulder belt under the arm. 2) Never swing the safety belt around your neck over the inside shoulder.

3) Never use a single belt for more than one person.

Always transport children 12 years old and under in the back

seat and always properly use appropriate child restraints.

Safety belts and seats can become hot in a vehicle that has been

closed up in sunny weather; they could burn a small child. Check seat covers and buckles before you place a child anywhere near them.

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Seating and Safety Restraints

Combination lap and shoulder belts

1. Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle (the buckle closest to the direction the tongue is coming from) until you hear a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the tongue is securely fastened in the buckle.

2. To unfasten, push the release button and remove the tongue from the buckle.

The front outboard and rear outboard safety restraints in the vehicle are combination lap and shoulder belts. The front outboard passenger and rear seat outboard safety belts have two types of locking modes described below:

Vehicle sensitive mode

This is the normal retractor mode, which allows free shoulder belt length adjustment to your movements and locking in response to vehicle movement. For example, if the driver brakes suddenly or turns a corner sharply, or the vehicle receives an impact of approximately 8 km/h (5 mph) or more, the combination safety belts will lock to help reduce forward movement of the driver and passengers.

On SuperCab and CrewCab models, the front seat belt system can also be made to lock manually by quickly pulling on the shoulder belt.

Rear seat belts (if equipped) cannot be made to lock up by pulling quickly on the belt.

Automatic locking mode

The automatic locking mode is not available on the driver safety belt.

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Seating and Safety Restraints

When to use the automatic locking mode

In this mode, the shoulder belt is automatically pre-locked. The belt will still retract to remove any slack in the shoulder belt. The automatic locking mode is not available on the driver safety belt.

This mode should be used any time a child safety seat is installed in a passenger front or outboard rear seating position (if equipped). Children 12 years old and under should be properly restrained in the rear seat whenever possible. Refer to Safety restraints for children or Safety seats for children later in this chapter.

How to use the automatic locking mode

• Buckle the combination lap and shoulder belt.

• Grasp the shoulder portion and pull downward until the entire belt is pulled out.

• Allow the belt to retract. As the belt retracts, you will hear a clicking sound. This indicates the safety belt is now in the automatic locking mode.

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Seating and Safety Restraints

How to disengage the automatic locking mode

Disconnect the combination lap/shoulder belt and allow it to retract completely to disengage the automatic locking mode and activate the vehicle sensitive (emergency) locking mode.

After any vehicle collision, the front passenger and rear outboard

seat belt systems must be checked by a qualified technician to verify that the “automatic locking retractor” feature for child seats is still functioning properly. In addition, all seat belts should be checked for proper function.

BELT AND RETRACTOR ASSEMBLY MUST BE REPLACED if

the seat belt assembly “automatic locking retractor” feature or any other seat belt function is not operating properly when checked according to the procedures in Workshop Manual. Failure to replace the Belt and Retractor assembly could increase the risk of injury in collisions.

Energy Management Feature

• This vehicle has a seat belt system with an energy management feature at the front outboard seating positions to help further reduce the risk of injury in the event of a head-on collision.

• The front outboard seat belt systems have a retractor assembly that is designed to pay out webbing in a controlled manner. This feature is designed to help reduce the belt force acting on the occupant’s chest.

Safety belt replacement label

The short plastic boot on the front safety belt at the passenger outboard anchor location covers a “Replace Belt” label on the safety belt.

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Seating and Safety Restraints

In the event of a collision, the colored label (REPLACE BELT) may become visible. If this occurs,

the safety belt must be replaced.

Whenever the yellow

portion of the label is visible, the safety belt must be replaced.

Failure to follow these

instructions will affect the performance of the safety belts and increase the risk of personal injury.

Safety belt pretensioner

Your vehicle is equipped with safety belt pretensioners at the driver and front outboard passenger seating positions.

The Seat Integrated Restraints (SIR) seat (which has shoulder belts attached to the corners of the front seat back) is equipped with a buckle pretensioner. Do NOT place objects between the seats, this could interfere with the functioning of the pretensioner. For the SuperCab and CrewCab base bench seats and all Regular Cab seating positions, the safety belts are equipped with a retractor pretensioner.

The driver and front outboard passenger safety belt pretensioners are designed to activate only during certain frontal or near-frontal collisions with sufficient longitudinal deceleration. A safety belt pretensioner is a device which tightens the webbing of the lap and shoulder belts during some collisions in such a way that they fit more snugly against the body.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

The driver and front outboard passenger safety belt system (including retractors, buckles and height adjusters) must be replaced if the vehicle is involved in a collision that results in the activation of the safety belt pretensioners. Refer to the Safety belt maintenance section in this chapter.

Failure to replace the safety belt assembly under the above

conditions could result in severe personal injuries in the event of a collision.

Front safety belt height adjustment

If your shoulder belts come out of the seatback, you will not have a safety belt height adjuster.

Adjust the height of the shoulder belt so the belt rests across the middle of your shoulder.

• Regular Cab and 4–door CrewCab

• 4–door Super Cab (if equipped)

To adjust the shoulder belt height, push the button and slide the height adjuster up or down. Release the button and pull down on the height adjuster to make sure it is locked in place.

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Seating and Safety Restraints

Position the safety belt height adjusters so that the belt rests

across the middle of your shoulder. Failure to adjust the safety belt properly could reduce the effectiveness of the seat belt and increase the risk of injury in a collision.

Lap belts

Adjusting the lap belt

The lap belt should fit snugly and as low as possible around the

hips, not across the waist.

• 1st row and 3rd row (if equipped) center seating positions

The lap belt does not adjust automatically.

Insert the tongue into the correct buckle (the buckle closest to the direction the tongue is coming from). To lengthen the belt, turn the tongue at a right angle to the belt and pull across your lap until it reaches the buckle. To tighten the belt, pull the loose end of the belt through the tongue until it fits snugly across the hips.

Shorten and fasten the belt when not in use.

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Seating and Safety Restraints

• 2nd row center seating position (if equipped)

The lap belt will not adjust automatically. To fasten, grasp the tongue, and with a continuous motion, pull out enough webbing to buckle the tongue into the correct buckle. If you did not pull out enough webbing to reach the buckle, allow the tongue to retract fully before trying to pull it out again.

Safety belt warning light and indicator chime

The safety belt warning light illuminates in the instrument cluster and a chime sounds to remind the occupants to fasten their safety belts.

Conditions of operation

If... Then...

The driver’s safety belt is not buckled before the ignition switch is turned to the ON position...

The driver’s safety belt is buckled while the indicator light is illuminated and the warning chime is sounding...

The driver’s safety belt is buckled before the ignition switch is turned to the ON position...

The safety belt warning light illuminates 1-2 minutes and the warning chime sounds 4-8 seconds.

The safety belt warning light and warning chime turn off.

The safety belt warning light and indicator chime remain off.

BeltMinder

The BeltMinder feature is a supplemental warning to the safety belt warning function. This feature provides additional reminders to the driver that the driver’s safety belt is unbuckled by intermittently sounding a chime and illuminating the safety belt warning lamp in the instrument cluster.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

If... Then...

The driver’s safety belt is not buckled before the vehicle has reached at least 5 km/h (3 mph) and 1-2 minutes have elapsed since the ignition switch has been turned to ON...

The driver’s safety belt is buckled while the safety belt indicator light is illuminated and the safety belt warning chime is sounding...

The driver’s safety belt is buckled before the ignition switch is turned to the ON position...

The following are reasons most often given for not wearing safety belts: (All statistics based on U.S. data)

Reasons given... Consider...

“Crashes are rare events” 36700 crashes occur every day. The

“I’m not going far” 3of4fatal crashes occur within 25

“Belts are uncomfortable” We design our safety belts to enhance

“I was in a hurry” Prime time for an accident.

The BeltMinder feature is activated - the safety belt warning light illuminates and the warning chime sounds for 6 seconds every 30 seconds, repeating for approximately 5 minutes or until safety belt is buckled.

The BeltMinder feature will not activate.

more we drive, the more we are exposed to “rare” events, even for good drivers. 1 in 4 of us will be

seriously injured in a crash during our lifetime.

miles of home.

comfort. If you are uncomfortable try different positions for the safety belt upper anchorage and seatback which should be as upright as possible; this can improve comfort.

BeltMinder reminds us to take a few seconds to buckle up.

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Seating and Safety Restraints

Reasons given... Consider... “Safety belts don’t work” Safety belts, when used properly,

reduce risk of death to front seat occupants by 45% in cars, and by 60% in light trucks.

“Traffic is light” Nearly 1 of 2 deaths occur in

single-vehicle crashes, many when

no other vehicles are around.

“Belts wrinkle my clothes” Possibly, but a serious crash can do

much more than wrinkle your clothes, particularly if you are unbelted.

“The people I’m with don’t wear belts”

“I have an air bag” Air bags offer greater protection when

“I’d rather be thrown clear” Not a good idea. People who are

Do not sit on top of a buckled safety belt to avoid the Belt

Minder chime. Sitting on the safety belt will increase the risk of injury in an accident. To disable (one-time) or deactivate the Belt Minder feature please follow the directions stated below.

Set the example, teen deaths occur 4 times more often in vehicles with TWO or MORE people. Children and younger brothers/sisters imitate behavior they see.

used with safety belts. Frontal airbags are not designed to inflate in rear and side crashes or rollovers.

ejected are 40 times more likely to DIE. Safety belts help prevent

ejection, WE CAN’T “PICK OUR CRASH”.

One time disable

Any time the safety belt is buckled and then unbuckled during an ignition ON cycle, the BeltMinder will be disabled for that ignition cycle only.

Deactivating/activating the BeltMinder feature

Read steps1-9thoroughly before proceeding with the deactivation/activation programming procedure.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

The BeltMinder feature can be deactivated/activated by performing the following procedure:

Before following the procedure, ensure that the following conditions are met:

• The parking brake is set.

• The gearshift is in P (Park) (automatic transmission) or the neutral

position (manual transmission).

• The ignition switch is in the OFF position.

• All vehicle doors are closed.

• The driver’s safety belt is unbuckled.

• The parklamps/headlamps are in OFF position (If vehicle is equipped

with Autolamps, this will not affect the procedure).

To reduce the risk of injury, do not deactivate/activate the Belt

Minder feature while driving the vehicle.

BeltMinder activation and deactivation procedure

1. Turn the ignition switch to the RUN (or ON) position. (DO NOT START THE ENGINE.)

2. Wait until the safety belt warning light turns off. (Approximately 1–2 minutes.)

• Steps 3–5 must be completed within 60 seconds or the procedure will have to be repeated.

3. Buckle then unbuckle the safety belt three times, ending with the

safety belt unbuckled. This can be done before or during BeltMinder warning activation.

4. Turn on the parklamps/headlamps, turn off the parklamps/headlamps.

5. Buckle then unbuckle the safety belt three times, ending with the

safety belt unbuckled.

• After step 5 the safety belt warning light will be turned on for three seconds.

6. Within seven seconds of the safety belt warning light turning off,

buckle then unbuckle the safety belt.

• This will disable BeltMinder if it is currently enabled, or enable BeltMinder if it is currently disabled.

7. Confirmation of disabling BeltMinder is provided by the safety belt

warning light flashing four times per second for three seconds.

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Seating and Safety Restraints

8. Confirmation of enabling BeltMinder is provided by:

• The safety belt warning light flashing four times per second for three seconds.

• Followed by three seconds with the safety belt warning light off.

• Once again, the safety belt warning light will flash four times per

second for three seconds.

9. After receiving confirmation, the deactivation/activation procedure is

complete.

Safety belt extension assembly

If the safety belt is too short when fully extended, there is a 20 cm (8 inch) safety belt extension assembly that can be added (part number 611C22). This assembly can be obtained from your dealer at no cost.

Use only extensions manufactured by the same supplier as the safety belt. Manufacturer identification is located at the end of the webbing on the label. Also, use the safety belt extension only if the safety belt is too short for you when fully extended.

Do not use extensions to change the fit of the shoulder belt across the torso.

Safety belt maintenance

Inspect the safety belt systems periodically to make sure they work properly and are not damaged. Inspect the safety belts to make sure there are no nicks, tears or cuts. Replace if necessary. All safety belt assemblies, including retractors, buckles, front seat belt buckle assemblies, buckle support assemblies (slide bar-if equipped), shoulder belt height adjusters (if equipped), shoulder belt guide on seatback (if equipped), child safety seat LATCH and tether anchors, and attaching hardware, should be inspected after a collision. Ford Motor Company recommends that all safety belt assemblies used in vehicles involved in a collision be replaced. However, if the collision was minor and a qualified technician finds that the belts do not show damage and continue to operate properly, they do not need to be replaced. Safety belt assemblies not in use during a collision should also be inspected and replaced if either damage or improper operation is noted.

Failure to inspect and if necessary replace the safety belt assembly under the above conditions could result in severe

personal injuries in the event of a collision.

Refer to Interior in the Cleaning chapter.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

AIR BAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)

Important SRS precautions

The SRS is designed to work with the safety belt to help protect the driver and right front passenger from certain upper body injuries. Air bags DO NOT inflate slowly; there is a risk of injury from a deploying air bag.

All occupants of the vehicle, including the driver, should always properly wear their safety belts, even when an air bag (SRS) is

provided.

Always transport children 12 years old and under in the back seat and always properly use appropriate child restraints.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends a minimum distance of at least 25 cm (10 inches)

between an occupant’s chest and the driver air bag module.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

Never place your arm over the air bag module as a deploying air bag can result in serious arm fractures or other injuries.

To properly position yourself away from the air bag:

• Move your seat to the rear as far as you can while still reaching the pedals comfortably.

• Recline the seat slightly one or two degrees from the upright position.

Do not put anything on or over the air bag module. Placing

objects on or over the air bag inflation area may cause those objects to be propelled by the air bag into your face and torso causing serious injury.

Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the air bag

supplemental restraint systems or its fuses. See your Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealer.

The front passenger air bag is not designed to offer protection to

an occupant in the center front seating position.

Modifying or adding equipment to the front end of the vehicle

(including frame, bumper, front end body structure and tow hooks) may affect the performance of the air bag system, increasing the risk of injury. Do not modify the front end of the vehicle.

Additional equipment such as snowplow equipment may effect

the performance of the air bag sensors increasing the risk of injury. Please refer to the Body Builders Layout Book for instructions about the appropriate installation of additional equipment.

Removing the blocker beam without installing snow plow

attachment hardware may effect air bag deployment in a crash. Do not operate the truck unless either the blocker beam or snow plow attachment hardware is installed on the vehicle.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

Children and air bags

For additional important safety information, read all information on safety restraints in this guide.

Children must always be properly restrained. Failure to follow these instructions may increase the risk of injury in a collision.

An infant in a rear-facing seat faces a high risk of serious or fatal

injuries from a deploying passenger air bag. Rear facing infant seats should NEVER be placed in the front seats, unless the passenger air bag is turned off. See Passenger air bag ON/OFF switch.

How does the air bag supplemental restraint system work?

The air bag SRS is designed to activate when the vehicle sustains sufficient longitudinal deceleration. The fact that the air bags did not inflate in a collision does not mean that something is wrong with the system. Rather, it means the forces were not of the type sufficient to cause activation. Air bags are designed to inflate in frontal and near-frontal collisions, not rollover, side-impact, or rear-impacts.

The air bags inflate and deflate rapidly upon activation. After air bag deployment, it is normal to notice a smoke-like, powdery residue or smell the burnt propellant. This may consist of cornstarch, talcum powder (to lubricate the bag) or sodium compounds (e.g., baking soda) that result from the combustion process that inflates the air bag. Small amounts of sodium hydroxide may be present which may irritate the skin and eyes, but none of the residue is toxic.

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Seating and Safety Restraints

While the system is designed to help reduce serious injuries, it may also cause minor abrasions, swelling or temporary hearing loss. Because air bags must inflate rapidly and with considerable force, there is the risk of death or serious injuries such as fractures, facial and eye injuries or internal injuries, particularly to occupants who are not properly restrained or are otherwise out of position at the time of air bag deployment. Thus, it is extremely important that occupants be properly restrained as far away from the air bag module as possible while maintaining vehicle control.

Several air bag system components get hot after inflation. Do not

touch them after inflation.

If the air bag has deployed, the air bag will not function

again and must be replaced immediately. If the air bag is not replaced, the unrepaired area will increase the risk of injury in a collision.

The SRS consists of:

• driver and passenger (if equipped) air bag modules (which include the inflators and air bags),

• one or more impact and safing sensors,

• a readiness light and tone

• and the electrical wiring which connects the components.

The diagnostic module monitors its own internal circuits and the supplemental air bag electrical system warning (including the impact sensors), the system wiring, the air bag system readiness light, the air bag back up power and the air bag ignitors.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

Determining if the system is operational

The SRS uses a readiness light in the instrument cluster or a tone to indicate the condition of the system. Refer to Air bag readiness section in the Instrument cluster chapter. Routine maintenance of the air bag is not required.

A difficulty with the system is indicated by one or more of the following:

• The readiness light will either flash or stay lit.

• The readiness light will not illuminate immediately after ignition is turned on.

• A series of five beeps will be heard. The tone pattern will repeat periodically until the problem and/or light are repaired.

If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the SRS serviced at your dealership or by a qualified technician immediately. Unless serviced, the system may not function properly in the event of a collision.

Disposal of air bags and air bag equipped vehicles (including pretensioners)

See your local dealership or qualified technician. Air bags MUST BE disposed of by qualified personnel.

Passenger air bag ON/OFF switch

An air bag ON/OFF switch

has been installed in this vehicle. Before driving, always look at the face of the switch to be sure the switch is in the proper position in accordance with these instructions and warnings. Failure to put the switch in a proper position can increase the risk of serious injury or death in a collision.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

PASSENGER AIR BAG

OFF

Seating and Safety Restraints

Turning the passenger air bag off

1. Insert the ignition key, turn the switch to OFF position and hold in OFF position while removing the key.

2. When the ignition is turned to the ON position the OFF light illuminates briefly, momentarily shuts off and then turns back on. This indicates that the passenger air bag is deactivated.

If the light fails to illuminate when the passenger air bag switch

is in the OFF position and the ignition switch is in ON, have the passenger air bag switch serviced at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer immediately.

In order to avoid inadvertent activation of the switch, always

remove the ignition key from the passenger air bag ON/OFF switch.

Turning the passenger air bag back on

The passenger air bag remains OFF until you turn it back ON.

1. Insert the ignition key and turn the switch to ON.

2. The OFF light will briefly illuminate when the ignition is turned to On. This indicates that the passenger air bag is operational.

PASSENGER AIR BAG

OFF

PASSENGER AIR BAG

OFF

If the OFF light is illuminated when the passenger air bag switch

is in the ON position and the ignition switch is in ON, have the passenger air bag switch serviced at your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer immediately.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

The passenger side air bag should always be ON (the air bag OFF light should not be illuminated) unless the passenger is a person who meets the requirements stated either in Category 1, 2 or 3 of the NHTSA/Transport Canada deactivation criteria which follows.

The safety belts for the driver and right front passenger seating

positions have been specifically designed to function together with the air bags in certain types of crashes. When you turn OFF your air bag, you not only lose the protection of the air bag, you also may reduce the effectiveness of your safety belt system, which was designed to work with the air bag. If you are not a person who meets the requirements stated in the NHTSA/Transport Canada deactivation criteria turning OFF the air bag can increase the risk of serious injury or death in a collision.

If your vehicle has rear seats, always transport children who are

12 and younger in the rear seat. Always use safety belts and child restraints properly. If a child in a rear facing infant seat must be transported in front, the passenger air bag must be turned OFF. This is because the back of the infant seat is too close to the inflating air bag and the risk of a fatal injury to the infant when the air bag inflates is substantial.

The vast majority of drivers and passengers are much safer with an air bag than without. To do their job and reduce the risk of life threatening injuries, air bags must open with great force, and this force can pose a potentially deadly risk in some situations, particularly when a front seat occupant is not properly buckled up. The most effective way to reduce the risk of unnecessary air bag injuries without reducing the overall safety of the vehicle is to make sure all occupants are properly restrained in the vehicle, especially in the front seat. This provides the protection of safety belts and permits the air bags to provide the additional protection they were designed to provide. If you choose to deactivate your air bag, you are losing the very significant risk reducing benefits of the air bag and you are also reducing the effectiveness of the safety belts, because safety belts in modern vehicles are designed to work as a safety system with the air bags.

Read all air bag Warning labels in the vehicle as well as the other important air bag instructions and Warnings in this Owner’s Guide.

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Seating and Safety Restraints

NHTSA deactivation criteria (excluding Canada)

1. Infant. An infant (less than 1 year old) must ride in the front seat because:

• the vehicle has no rear seat;

• the vehicle has a rear seat too small to accommodate a rear-facing

infant seat; or

• the infant has a medical condition which, according to the infant’s physician, makes it necessary for the infant to ride in the front so that the driver can constantly monitor the child’s condition.

2. Child age 1 to 12. A child age 1 to 12 must ride in the front seat

because:

• the vehicle has no rear seat;

• although children ages 1 to 12 ride in the rear seat(s) whenever

possible, children ages 1 to 12 sometimes must ride in the front because no space is available in the rear seat(s) of the vehicle; or

• the child has a medical condition which, according to the child’s physician, makes it necessary for the child to ride in the front seat so that the driver can constantly monitor the child’s condition.

3. Medical condition. A passenger has a medical condition which,

according to his or her physician:

• causes the passenger air bag to pose a special risk for the passenger; and

• makes the potential harm from the passenger air bag in a crash greater than the potential harm from turning OFF the air bag and allowing the passenger, even if belted, to hit the dashboard or windshield in a crash.

This vehicle has special energy management safety belts for the

driver and right front passenger. These particular belts are specifically designed to work with air bags to help reduce the risk of injury in a collision. The energy management safety belt is designed to give or release additional belt webbing in some accidents to reduce concentration of force on an occupant’s chest and reduce the risk of certain bone fractures and injuries to underlying organs. In a crash, if the air bag is turned OFF, this energy management safety belt might permit the person wearing the belt to move forward enough to incur a serious or fatal injury. The more severe the crash, and the heavier the occupant, the greater the risk is. Be sure the air bag is turned ON for any person who does not qualify under the NHTSA deactivation criteria.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

Transport Canada deactivation criteria (Canada Only)

1. Infant: An infant (less than 1 year old) must ride in the front seat because:

• my vehicle has no rear seat;

• the rear seat in my vehicle cannot accommodate a rear-facing infant

seat; or

• the infant has a medical condition which, according to the infant’s physician, makes it necessary for the infant to ride in the front seat so that the driver can monitor the infant’s condition.

2. Child age 12 or under: A child age 12 or under must ride in the

front seat because:

• my vehicle has no rear seat;

• although children age 12 and under ride in the rear seat whenever

possible, children age 12 and under have no option but to sometimes ride in the front seat because rear seat space is insufficient; or

• the child has a medical condition that, according to the child’s physician, makes it necessary for the child to ride in the front seat so that the driver can monitor the child’s condition.

3. Medical condition: A passenger has a medical condition that,

according to his or her physician:

• poses a special risk for the passenger if the air bag deploys; and

• makes the potential harm from the passenger air bag deployment

greater than the potential harm from turning OFF the air bag and experiencing a crash without the protection offered by the air bag

This vehicle has special energy management safety belts for the

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

SAFETY RESTRAINTS FOR CHILDREN

See the following sections for directions on how to properly use safety restraints for children. Also see Air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) in this chapter for special instructions about using air bags.

Important child restraint precautions

You are required by law to use safety restraints for children in the U.S. and Canada. If small children (generally children who are four years old or younger and who weigh 18 kg [40 lbs] or less) ride in your vehicle, you must put them in safety seats made especially for children. Check your local and state or provincial laws for specific requirements regarding the safety of children in your vehicle. When possible, always place children under age 12 in the rear seat of your vehicle. Accident statistics suggest that children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating position.

Never let a passenger hold a child on his or her lap while the

vehicle is moving. The passenger cannot protect the child from injury in a collision.

Always follow the instructions and warnings that come with any infant or child restraint you might use.

Children and safety belts

If the child is the proper size, restrain the child in a safety seat. Children who are too large for child safety seats (as specified by your child safety seat manufacturer) should always wear safety belts.

Follow all the important safety restraint and air bag precautions that apply to adult passengers in your vehicle.

If the shoulder belt portion of a combination lap and shoulder belt can be positioned so it does not cross or rest in front of the child’s face or neck, the child should wear the lap and shoulder belt. Moving the child closer to the center of the vehicle may help provide a good shoulder belt fit.

Do not leave children, unreliable adults, or pets unattended in

your vehicle.

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

Seating and Safety Restraints

Child booster seats

Children outgrow a typical convertible or toddler seat when they weigh 40 pounds and are around 4 years of age. Although the lap/shoulder belt will provide some protection, these children are still too small for lap/shoulder belts to fit properly, which could increase the risk of serious injury.

To improve the fit of both the lap and shoulder belt on children who have outgrown child safety seats, Ford Motor Company recommends use of a belt-positioning booster.

Booster seats position a child so that safety belts fit better. They lift the child up so that the lap belt rests low across the hips and the knees bend comfortably. Booster seats also make the shoulder belt fit better and more comfortably for growing children.

When children should use booster seats

Children need to use booster seats from the time they outgrow the toddler seat until they are big enough for the vehicle seat and lap/shoulder belt to fit properly. Generally this is when they weigh about 80 lbs (about 8 to 12 years old).

Booster seats should be used until you can answer YES to ALL of these questions:

• Can the child sit all the way back against the vehicle seat back with knees bent comfortably at the edge of the seat without slouching?

• Does the lap belt rest low across the hips?

• Is the shoulder belt centered on the shoulder and chest?

• Can the child stay seated like this for the whole trip?

100

2003 F250/350/450/550 (f23) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)

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