Ford Flex 2016 Owner's Manual

owner.ford.com ford.ca

2016 FLEX Owner’s Manual

November 2015

First Printing

Owner’s Manual

Flex

Litho in U.S.A.

GA8J 19A321 AA

The information contained in this publication was correct at the time of going to print. In the interest of continuous development, we reserve the right to change specifications, design or equipment at any time without notice or obligation. No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted, stored in a retrieval system or translated into any language in any form by any means without our written permission. Errors and omissions excepted.

Part Number: 20150925152634

Introduction

About This Manual...........................................7

Symbols Glossary.............................................7

Data Recording..................................................9

California Proposition 65..............................11

Perchlorate.........................................................11

Ford Credit..........................................................11

Replacement Parts

Recommendation........................................11

Special Notices................................................12

Mobile Communications

Equipment.....................................................12

Export Unique Options..................................13

Environment

Protecting the Environment........................14

Child Safety

General Information.......................................15

Installing Child Restraints............................16

Booster Seats..................................................25

Child Restraint Positioning..........................27

Child Safety Locks.........................................29

Seatbelts

Principle of Operation....................................31

Fastening the Seatbelts...............................32

Seatbelt Height Adjustment......................36

Seatbelt Warning Lamp and Indicator

Chime.............................................................36

Seatbelt Reminder.........................................37

Child Restraint and Seatbelt

Maintenance................................................39

Personal Safety System™

Personal Safety System™.........................40

Supplementary Restraints

System

Principle of Operation...................................41

Driver and Passenger Airbags....................42

Front Passenger Sensing System............43

Side Airbags.....................................................45

Safety Canopy™............................................46

Crash Sensors and Airbag Indicator........47

Airbag Disposal..............................................48

Keys and Remote Controls

General Information on Radio

Frequencies.................................................49

Remote Control..............................................49

Replacing a Lost Key or Remote

Control...........................................................53

MyKey™

Principle of Operation..................................54

Creating a MyKey............................................55

Clearing All MyKeys.......................................56

Checking MyKey System Status...............57

Using MyKey With Remote Start

Systems.........................................................58

MyKey Troubleshooting...............................58

Locks

Locking and Unlocking................................60

Manual Liftgate...............................................63

Power Liftgate.................................................64

Keyless Entry....................................................67

Security

Passive Anti-Theft System.........................70

Anti-Theft Alarm.............................................71

Steering Wheel

Adjusting the Steering Wheel - Vehicles

With: Manual Adjustable Steering

Column...........................................................72

Adjusting the Steering Wheel - Vehicles

With: Power Adjustable Steering

Column...........................................................72

Audio Control...................................................73

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Voice Control....................................................74

Cruise Control..................................................74

Information Display Control.......................74

Heated Steering Wheel................................74

Pedals

Adjusting the Pedals.....................................75

Wipers and Washers

Windshield Wipers.........................................76

Autowipers........................................................76

Windshield Washers......................................77

Rear Window Wiper and Washers............77

Lighting

General Information......................................79

Lighting Control..............................................79

Autolamps.......................................................80

Instrument Lighting Dimmer......................81

Headlamp Exit Delay.....................................81

Daytime Running Lamps.............................82

Automatic High Beam Control..................82

Front Fog Lamps............................................83

Adaptive Headlamps....................................83

Direction Indicators.......................................84

Interior Lamps.................................................84

Ambient Lighting...........................................85

Windows and Mirrors

Power Windows.............................................86

Exterior Mirrors................................................87

Interior Mirror...................................................89

Sun Visors.........................................................89

Moonroof..........................................................89

Instrument Cluster

Gauges................................................................91

Warning Lamps and Indicators.................92

Audible Warnings and Indicators.............95

Information Displays

General Information......................................97

Information Messages................................105

Climate Control

Manual Climate Control..............................114

Automatic Climate Control - Vehicles

With: Premium AM/FM/CD...................115

Automatic Climate Control - Vehicles

With: Sony Audio System.......................117

Hints on Controlling the Interior

Climate..........................................................118

Rear Passenger Climate Controls............121

Heated Windows and Mirrors....................121

Cabin Air Filter................................................122

Remote Start..................................................122

Seats

Sitting in the Correct Position..................123

Head Restraints.............................................123

Manual Seats.................................................126

Power Seats....................................................127

Memory Function.........................................128

Rear Seats.......................................................129

Heated Seats.................................................136

Climate Controlled Seats...........................137

Universal Garage Door

Opener

Universal Garage Door Opener...............138

Auxiliary Power Points

Auxiliary Power Points................................143

Storage Compartments

Center Console..............................................145

Overhead Console.......................................146

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Starting and Stopping the

Engine

General Information....................................147

Ignition Switch...............................................147

Keyless Starting.............................................147

Starting a Gasoline Engine.......................148

Engine Block Heater.....................................151

Fuel and Refueling

Safety Precautions.......................................153

Fuel Quality....................................................154

Fuel Filler Funnel Location........................154

Running Out of Fuel....................................154

Refueling..........................................................155

Fuel Consumption........................................157

Emission Control System..........................158

Transmission

Automatic Transmission.............................161

All-Wheel Drive

Using All-Wheel Drive.................................165

Brakes

General Information.....................................172

Hints on Driving With Anti-Lock

Brakes............................................................172

Parking Brake..................................................173

Traction Control

Principle of Operation.................................174

Using Traction Control................................174

Stability Control

Principle of Operation.................................175

Using Stability Control................................176

Parking Aids

Principle of Operation..................................177

Rear Parking Aid.............................................177

Active Park Assist.........................................178

Rear View Camera.......................................182

Cruise Control

Principle of Operation.................................185

Using Cruise Control....................................185

Using Adaptive Cruise Control................186

Driving Aids

Blind Spot Information System..............192

Cross Traffic Alert.........................................194

Steering............................................................197

Collision Warning System.........................198

Load Carrying

Cargo Nets......................................................201

Roof Racks and Load Carriers.................201

Load Limit.......................................................201

Towing

Towing a Trailer............................................209

Trailer Sway Control....................................210

Recommended Towing Weights............210

Essential Towing Checks...........................212

Transporting the Vehicle............................215

Towing the Vehicle on Four Wheels......216

Driving Hints

Breaking-In......................................................218

Economical Driving......................................218

Driving Through Water................................219

Floor Mats........................................................219

Roadside Emergencies

Roadside Assistance...................................221

Hazard Warning Flashers..........................222

Fuel Shutoff...................................................222

Jump Starting the Vehicle.........................223

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Post-Crash Alert System..........................225

Customer Assistance

Getting the Services You Need...............226

In California (U.S. Only).............................227

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) Auto

Line Program (U.S. Only)......................228

Utilizing the Mediation/Arbitration

Program (Canada Only).......................229

Getting Assistance Outside the U.S. and

Canada........................................................229

Ordering Additional Owner's

Literature....................................................230

Reporting Safety Defects (U.S.

Only)..............................................................231

Reporting Safety Defects (Canada

Only)..............................................................231

Fuses

Fuse Specification Chart...........................233

Changing a Fuse...........................................242

Maintenance

General Information...................................243

Opening and Closing the Hood..............243

Under Hood Overview - 3.5L

Duratec........................................................245

Under Hood Overview - 3.5L

Ecoboost™................................................246

Engine Oil Dipstick.......................................247

Engine Oil Check..........................................247

Oil Change Indicator Reset.......................247

Engine Coolant Check...............................248

Automatic Transmission Fluid

Check............................................................252

Brake Fluid Check........................................253

Power Steering Fluid Check.....................254

Washer Fluid Check....................................254

Changing the 12V Battery.........................254

Checking the Wiper Blades.....................256

Changing the Wiper Blades.....................256

Adjusting the Headlamps.........................257

Removing a Headlamp.............................258

Changing a Bulb...........................................258

Bulb Specification Chart............................261

Changing the Engine Air Filter................263

Vehicle Care

General Information...................................264

Cleaning Products.......................................264

Cleaning the Exterior..................................264

Waxing.............................................................265

Cleaning the Engine...................................266

Cleaning the Windows and Wiper

Blades..........................................................266

Cleaning the Interior...................................267

Cleaning the Instrument Panel and

Instrument Cluster Lens........................267

Cleaning Leather Seats.............................268

Repairing Minor Paint Damage..............268

Cleaning the Alloy Wheels.......................268

Vehicle Storage............................................269

Wheels and Tires

General Information.....................................271

Tire Care...........................................................273

Using Snow Chains.....................................287

Tire Pressure Monitoring System..........288

Changing a Road Wheel............................291

Technical Specifications..........................296

Capacities and Specific-

ations

Engine Specifications - 3.5L

Duratec........................................................297

Engine Specifications - 3.5L

Ecoboost™................................................297

Motorcraft Parts - 3.5L Duratec.............298

Motorcraft Parts - 3.5L Ecoboost™......299

Vehicle Identification Number...............300

Vehicle Certification Label........................301

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Transmission Code Designation.............301

Capacities and Specifications - 3.5L

Duratec........................................................302

Capacities and Specifications - 3.5L

Ecoboost™................................................305

Audio System

General Information....................................310

Audio Unit - Vehicles With: AM/FM/CD/

SYNC/Satellite Radio..............................311

Audio Unit - Vehicles With: Premium AM/

FM/CD...........................................................315

Audio Unit - Vehicles With: Sony AM/FM/

CD...................................................................316

USB Port...........................................................317

Media Hub........................................................317

SYNC™

General Information....................................318

Using Voice Recognition...........................320

Using SYNC™ With Your Phone............323

SYNC™ Applications and Services......336

SYNC™ AppLink™.....................................344

Using SYNC™ With Your Media

Player...........................................................346

SYNC™ Troubleshooting.........................356

Accessories

Accessories....................................................365

Extended Service Plan

(ESP)

Extended Service Plan (ESP).................367

Scheduled Maintenance

General Maintenance Information.......369

Normal Scheduled Maintenance...........372

Special Operating Conditions Scheduled

Maintenance..............................................375

Scheduled Maintenance Record............377

Appendices

End User License Agreement.................388

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ABOUT THIS MANUAL

Thank you for choosing Ford. We recommend that you take some time to get to know your vehicle by reading this manual. The more that you know about your vehicle, the greater the safety and pleasure you will get from driving it.

WARNING

Driving while distracted can result in loss of vehicle control, crash and

injury. We strongly recommend that you use extreme caution when using any device that may take your focus off the road. Your primary responsibility is the safe operation of your vehicle. We recommend against the use of any hand-held device while driving and encourage the use of voice-operated systems when possible. Make sure you are aware of all applicable local laws that may affect the use of electronic devices while driving.

Note: This manual describes product features and options available throughout the range of available models, sometimes even before they are generally available. It may describe options not fitted to the vehicle you have purchased.

Note: Some of the illustrations in this manual may show features as used in different models, so they may appear different to you on your vehicle.

Note: Always use and operate your vehicle in line with all applicable laws and regulations.

Note: Pass on this manual when selling your vehicle. It is an integral part of your vehicle.

This manual may qualify the location of a component as left-hand side or right-hand side. The side is determined when facing forward in the seat.

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Right-hand side.A Left-hand side.B

SYMBOLS GLOSSARY

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

Safety alert

See Owner's Manual

Air conditioning system

Anti-lock braking system

Avoid smoking, flames or sparks

Battery

Battery acid

Brake fluid - non petroleum based

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Brake system

Cabin air filter

Check fuel cap

Child safety door lock or unlock

Child seat lower anchor

Child seat tether anchor

E71340

Cruise control

Do not open when hot

Engine air filter

Engine coolant

Engine coolant temperature

Engine oil

Explosive gas

Fan warning

Fasten seatbelt

Front airbag

Front fog lamps

Fuel pump reset

Fuse compartment

Hazard warning flashers

Heated rear window

Heated windshield

Interior luggage compartment release

Jack

Keep out of reach of children

Lighting control

Low tire pressure warning

Maintain correct fluid level

Note operating instructions

Panic alarm

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Introduction

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Parking aid

Parking brake

Power steering fluid

Power windows front/rear

Power window lockout

Service engine soon

Side airbag

Shield the eyes

E138639

Stability control

Windshield wash and wipe

DATA RECORDING

Service Data Recording

Service data recorders in your vehicle are capable of collecting and storing diagnostic information about your vehicle. This potentially includes information about the performance or status of various systems and modules in the vehicle, such as engine, throttle, steering or brake systems. In order to properly diagnose and service your vehicle, Ford Motor Company, Ford of Canada, and service and repair

facilities may access or share among them vehicle diagnostic information received through a direct connection to your vehicle when diagnosing or servicing your vehicle. Additionally, when your vehicle is in for service or repair, Ford Motor Company, Ford of Canada, and service and repair facilities may access or share among them data for vehicle improvement purposes. For U.S. only (if equipped), if you choose to use the SYNC Vehicle Health Report, you consent that certain diagnostic information may also be accessed electronically by Ford Motor Company and Ford authorized service facilities, and that the diagnostic information may be used for any purpose. See SYNC™ (page 318).

Event Data Recording

This vehicle is equipped with an event data recorder. The main purpose of an event data recorder is to record, in certain crash or near crash-like situations, such as an airbag deployment or hitting a road obstacle; this data will assist in understanding how a vehicle’s systems performed. The event data recorder is designed to record data related to vehicle dynamics and safety systems for a short period of time, typically 30 seconds or less.

The event data recorder in this vehicle is designed to record such data as:

• How various systems in your vehicle were operating;

• Whether or not the driver and passenger safety belts were buckled/fastened;

• How far (if at all) the driver was depressing the accelerator and/or the brake pedal; and

• How fast the vehicle was traveling; and

• Where the driver was positioning the steering wheel.

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Introduction

This data can help provide a better understanding of the circumstances in which crashes and injuries occur.

Note: Event data recorder data is

recorded by your vehicle only if a non-trivial crash situation occurs; no data is recorded by the event data recorder under normal driving conditions and no personal data or information (e.g., name, gender, age, and crash location) is recorded (see limitations regarding 911 Assist and Traffic, directions and Information privacy below). However, parties, such as law enforcement, could combine the event data recorder data with the type of personally identifying data routinely acquired during a crash investigation.

To read data recorded by an event data recorder, special equipment is required, and access to the vehicle or the event data recorder is needed. In addition to the vehicle manufacturer, other parties, such as law enforcement, that have such special equipment, can read the information if they have access to the vehicle or the event data recorder. Ford Motor Company and Ford of Canada do not access event data recorder information without obtaining consent, unless pursuant to court order or where required by law enforcement, other government authorities or other third parties acting with lawful authority. Other parties may seek to access the information independently of Ford Motor Company and Ford of Canada.

Note: Including to the extent that any

law pertaining to Event Data Recorders applies to SYNC or its features, please note the following: Once 911 Assist (if equipped) is enabled (set ON), 911 Assist may, through any paired and connected cell phone, disclose to emergency services that the vehicle has been in a crash involving the deployment of an airbag or, in certain vehicles, the activation of the fuel pump shut-off. Certain versions or updates to 911 Assist may also be capable of being used to electronically or verbally provide to 911 operators the vehicle location (such as latitude and longitude), and/or other details about the vehicle or crash or personal information about the occupants to assist 911 operators to provide the most appropriate emergency services. If you do not want to disclose this information, do not activate the 911 Assist feature. See SYNC™ (page 318).

Additionally, when you connect to Traffic, Directions and Information (if equipped, U.S. only), the service uses GPS technology and advanced vehicle sensors to collect the vehicle’s current location, travel direction, and speed (“vehicle travel information”), only to help provide you with the directions, traffic reports, or business searches that you request. If you do not want Ford or its vendors to receive this information, do not activate the service. For more information, see Traffic, Directions and Information, Terms and Conditions. See SYNC™

(page 318).

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Introduction

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65

WARNINGS

Some constituents of engine exhaust, certain vehicle components,

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.

Battery posts, terminals and related

accessories contain lead and lead

compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Batteries also contain other chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer. Wash your hands after handling.

PERCHLORATE

Certain components in your vehicle such as airbag modules, safety belt pretensioners and remote control batteries may contain perchlorate material. Special handling may apply for service or vehicle end of life disposal.

For more information visit:

Web Address

www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/

perchlorate

FORD CREDIT

(U.S. Only)

Ford Credit offers a full range of financing and lease plans to help you acquire your vehicle. If you have financed or leased your vehicle through Ford Credit, thank you for your business.

For your convenience we offer a number of ways to contact us, as well as to help manage your account.

Phone: 1-800-727-7000 For more information regarding Ford Credit,

as well as to access Account Manager, please go to www.fordcredit.com.

REPLACEMENT PARTS RECOMMENDATION

Your vehicle has been built to the highest standards using quality parts. We recommend that you demand the use of genuine Ford and Motorcraft parts whenever your vehicle requires scheduled maintenance or repair. You can clearly identify genuine Ford and Motorcraft parts by looking for the Ford, FoMoCo or Motorcraft branding on the parts or their packaging.

Scheduled Maintenance and Mechanical Repairs

One of the best ways for you to make sure that your vehicle provides years of service is to have it maintained in line with our recommendations using parts that conform to the specifications detailed in this Owner’s Manual. Genuine Ford and Motorcraft parts meet or exceed these specifications.

Collision Repairs

We hope that you never experience a collision, but accidents do happen. Genuine Ford replacement collision parts meet our stringent requirements for fit, finish, structural integrity, corrosion protection and dent resistance. During vehicle

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Introduction

development we validate these parts deliver the intended level of protection as a whole system. A great way to know for sure you are getting this level of protection is to use genuine Ford replacement collision parts.

Warranty on Replacement Parts

Genuine Ford and Motorcraft replacement parts are the only replacement parts that benefit from a Ford Warranty. Damage caused to your vehicle as a result of the failure of non-Ford parts may not be covered by the Ford Warranty. For additional information, refer to the terms and conditions of the Ford Warranty.

SPECIAL NOTICES

New Vehicle Limited Warranty

For a detailed description of what is covered and what is not covered by your vehicle’s New Vehicle Limited Warranty, refer to the Warranty Manual that is provided to you along with your Owner’s Manual.

Special Instructions

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

WARNINGS

You risk death or serious injury to yourself and others if you do not

follow the instruction highlighted by the warning symbol. 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

placed in front of an active passenger airbag.

On-board Diagnostics (OBD-II)

Your vehicle’s On-board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system has a data port for diagnostics, repair and reprogramming services with diagnostic scan tools. Installing a non-Ford-approved aftermarket OBD plug-in device that uses the port during normal driving, for example remote insurance company monitoring, remote vehicle diagnostics, telematics or engine reprogramming, may cause interference or damage to vehicle systems. We do not recommend or endorse the use of any non-Ford-approved aftermarket OBD plug-in devices. The vehicle Warranty may not cover damage caused by any non-Ford-approved aftermarket OBD plug-in device.

MOBILE COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT

Using mobile communications equipment is becoming increasingly important in the conduct of business and personal affairs. However, you must not compromise your 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, text messaging devices and portable two-way radios.

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Introduction

WARNING

Driving while distracted can result in loss of vehicle control, crash and

EXPORT UNIQUE OPTIONS

For your particular global region, your vehicle may be equipped with features and options that are different from the features and options that are described in this Owner’s Manual. A market unique supplement may be supplied that complements this book. By referring to the market unique supplement, if provided, you can properly identify those features, recommendations and specifications that are unique to your vehicle. This Owner’s Manual is written primarily for the U.S. and Canadian Markets. Features or equipment listed as standard may be different on units built for Export. Refer to this Owner’s

Manual for all other required information and warnings.

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Introduction

PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT

You must play your part in protecting the environment. Correct vehicle usage and the authorized disposal of waste, cleaning and lubrication materials are significant steps toward this aim.

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Environment

GENERAL INFORMATION

See the following sections for directions on how to properly use safety restraints for children.

WARNINGS

Always make sure your child is

secured properly in a device that is

appropriate for their height, age and weight. Child safety restraints must be bought separately from your vehicle. Failure to follow these instructions and guidelines may result in an increased risk of serious injury or death to your child.

All children are shaped differently.

The recommendations for safety

restraints are based on probable child height, age and weight thresholds from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and other safety organizations, or are the minimum requirements of law. We recommend checking with a NHTSA Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) and

WARNINGS

consult your pediatrician to make sure your child seat is appropriate for your child, and is compatible with and properly installed in your vehicle. To locate a child seat fitting station and CPST, contact NHTSA toll free at 1-888-327-4236 or go to http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov. In Canada, contact Transport Canada toll free at 1-800-333-0371 or go to www.tc.gc.ca to find a Child Car Seat Clinic in your area. Failure to properly restrain children in safety seats made especially for their height, age, and weight may result in an increased risk of serious injury or death to your child.

Do not leave children or animals unattended in the vehicle. On hot

days, the temperature in the trunk or vehicle interior can rise very quickly. Exposure of people or animals to these high temperatures for even a short time can cause death or serious heat-related injuries, including brain damage. Small children are particularly at risk.

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Child Safety

Recommendations for Safety Restraints for Children

Recommended restraint

type

Child size, height, weight, or ageChild

Use a child safety seat

(sometimes called an

infant carrier, convertible

seat, or toddler seat).

Children weighing 40 lb (18 kg) or less

(generally age four or younger).

Infants or

toddlers

Use a belt-positioning

booster seat.

Children who have outgrown or no longer

properly fit in a child safety seat (gener-

ally children who are less than 4 ft. 9 in.

(1.45 m) tall, are greater than age four and less than age 12, and between 40 lb (18 kg) and 80 lb (36 kg) and upward to

100 lb (45 kg) if recommended by your

child restraint manufacturer).

Small children

Use a vehicle safety belt having the lap belt snug and low across the hips,

shoulder belt centered

across the shoulder and

chest, and seat back

upright.

Children who have outgrown or no longer

properly fit in a belt-positioning booster seat (generally children who are at least 4 ft. 9 in. (1.45 m) tall or greater than 80

lb (36 kg) or 100 lb (45 kg) if recom-

mended by child restraint manufacturer).

Larger children

• You are required by law to properly use safety seats for infants and toddlers in the United States and Canada.

• Many states and provinces require that small children use approved booster seats until they reach age eight, a height of 4 feet 9 inches (1.45 meters) tall, or 80 pounds (36 kilograms). Check your local and state or provincial laws for specific requirements about the safety of children in your vehicle.

• When possible, always properly restrain children 12 years of age and under in a rear seating position of your vehicle. Accident statistics suggest that children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in a front seating position. See

Front Passenger Sensing System

(page 43).

INSTALLING CHILD RESTRAINTS

Child Seats

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Child Safety

Use a child safety seat (sometimes called an infant carrier, convertible seat, or toddler seat) for infants, toddlers or children weighing 40 lb (18 kg) or less (generally age four or younger).

Using Lap and Shoulder Belts

WARNINGS

Airbags can kill or injure a child in a child seat. Never place a rear-facing

child seat in front of an active airbag. If you must use a forward-facing child seat in the front seat, move the seat upon which the child seat is installed all the way back.

Airbags can kill or injure a child in a

child seat. Children 12 and under

should be properly restrained in the rear seat whenever possible.

Depending on where you secure a

child restraint, and depending on the

child restraint design, you may block access to certain seatbelt buckle assemblies and LATCH lower anchors, rendering those features potentially unusable. To avoid risk of injury, occupants should only use seating positions where they are able to be properly restrained.

When installing a child safety seat with combination lap and shoulder belts:

• Use the correct seatbelt buckle for that

seating position.

• Insert the belt tongue into the proper

buckle until you hear a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the tongue is securely fastened in the buckle.

• Keep the buckle release button

pointing up and away from the safety seat, with the tongue between the child seat and the release button, to prevent accidental unbuckling.

• Place the vehicle seat upon which the

child seat will be installed in the upright position.

• For second-row seating positions, adjust the recliner slightly to improve child seat fit. If needed, remove the head restraints.

• For third-row seating positions, stow the head restraints to improve child seat fit. See Head Restraints (page

123).

• Put the seatbelt in the automatic locking mode. See Step 5. This vehicle does not require the use of a locking clip.

Perform the following steps when installing the child seat with combination lap and shoulder belts:

Note: Although the child seat illustrated is a forward facing child seat, the steps are the same for installing a rear facing child seat.

Note: The lock-off device on some child restraints may not accommodate the shoulder portion of the inflatable seatbelt. Follow all instructions provided by the manufacturer of the child restraint regarding the necessary and proper use of the lock-off device. In some instances these devices have been provided only for use in vehicles with seatbelt systems that would otherwise require a locking clip.

Standard seatbelts

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Child Safety

1. Position the child safety seat in a seat with a combination lap and shoulder belt.

E142529

2. After positioning the child safety seat in the proper seating position, pull down on the shoulder belt and then grasp the shoulder belt and lap belt together behind the belt tongue.

E142530

3. While holding the shoulder and lap belt portions together, route the tongue through the child seat according to the child seat manufacturer's instructions. Be sure the belt webbing is not twisted.

E142531

4. Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle (the buckle closest to the direction the tongue is coming from) for that seating position until you hear a snap and feel the latch engage. Make sure the tongue is latched securely by pulling on it.

E142875

5. To put the retractor in the automatic locking mode, grasp the shoulder portion of the belt and pull downward until all of the belt is pulled out.

Note: The automatic locking mode is available on the front passenger and rear seats.

6. Allow the belt to retract to remove slack. The belt will click as it retracts to indicate it is in the automatic locking mode.

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Child Safety

7. Try to pull the belt out of the retractor to make sure the retractor is in the automatic locking mode (you should not be able to pull more belt out). If the retractor is not locked, unbuckle the belt and repeat Steps 5 and 6.

E142533

8. Remove remaining slack from the belt. Force the seat down with extra weight, for example, by pressing down or kneeling on the child restraint while pulling up on the shoulder belt in order to force slack from the belt. This is necessary to remove the remaining slack that will exist once the extra weight of the child is added to the child restraint. It also helps to achieve the proper snugness of the child seat to your vehicle. Sometimes, a slight lean toward the buckle will provide extra help to remove remaining slack from the belt.

9. Attach the tether strap (if the child seat is equipped).

E142534

10. Before placing the child in the seat, forcibly move the seat forward and back to make sure the seat is securely held in place. To check this, grab the seat at the belt path and attempt to move it side to side and forward and back. There should be no more than 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) of movement for proper installation.

We recommend checking with a NHTSA Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician to make certain the child restraint is properly installed. In Canada, check with Transport Canada for referral to a Child Car Seat Clinic.

Inflatable seatbelts

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1. Position the child safety seat in a seat

with a combination lap and shoulder belt.

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Child Safety

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2. After positioning the child safety seat in the proper seating position, grasp the shoulder belt and lap belt together behind the belt tongue.

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3. While holding the shoulder and lap belt portions together, route the tongue through the child seat according to the child seat manufacturer's instructions. Be sure the belt webbing is not twisted.

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5. To put the retractor in the automatic locking mode, grasp the lap portion of the inflatable seatbelt and pull upward until all of the belt is pulled out.

Note: The automatic locking mode is available on the front passenger and rear seats.

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Child Safety

Note: Unlike the standard seatbelt, the

inflatable seatbelt's unique lap portion locks the child seat for installation. The ability for the shoulder portion of the belt to move freely is normal, even after the lap belt has been put into the automatic locking mode.

Note: The lock-off device on some child restraints may not accommodate the shoulder portion of the inflatable seatbelt. Follow all instructions provided by the manufacturer of the child restraint regarding the necessary and proper use of the lock-off device. In some instances, these devices have been provided only for use in vehicles with seatbelt systems that would otherwise require a locking clip.

6. Allow the belt to retract to remove slack. The belt will click as it retracts to indicate it is in the automatic locking mode.

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8. Remove remaining slack from the belt. Force the seat down with extra weight, for example, by pressing down or kneeling on the child restraint while pulling down on the lap belt in order to force slack from the belt. This is

necessary to remove the remaining slack that will exist once the extra weight of the child is added to the child restraint. It also helps to achieve the proper snugness of the child seat to your vehicle. Sometimes, a slight lean toward the buckle will additionally help to remove remaining slack from the belt.

9. Attach the tether strap (if the child seat is equipped).

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10. Before placing the child in the seat,

forcibly move the seat forward and back to make sure the seat is securely held in place. To check this, grab the seat at the belt path and attempt to move it side to side and forward and back. There should be no more than 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) of movement for proper installation.

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Using Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH)

WARNINGS

Never attach two child safety seats to the same anchor. In a crash, one

anchor may not be strong enough to hold two child safety seat attachments and may break, causing serious injury or death.

Depending on where you secure a

child restraint, and depending on the

child restraint design, you may block access to certain seatbelt buckle assemblies or LATCH lower anchors, rendering those features potentially unusable. To avoid risk of injury, occupants should only use seating positions where they are able to be properly restrained.

The LATCH system is composed of three vehicle anchor points: two lower anchors located where the seatback and seat cushion meet (called the seat bight) and one top tether anchor located behind that seating position.

LATCH compatible child safety seats have two rigid or webbing mounted attachments that connect to the two lower anchors at the LATCH equipped seating positions in your vehicle. This type of attachment method eliminates the need to use seatbelts to attach the child seat, however the seatbelt can still be used to attach the child seat. For forward-facing child seats, the top tether strap must also be attached to the proper top tether anchor, if a top tether strap has been provided with your child seat.

Your vehicle has LATCH lower anchors for child seat installation at the seating positions marked with the child seat symbol.

Second-row bucket seats and third-row passenger side

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Second-row bench seats and third-row passenger side

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The LATCH anchors are located at the rear section of the rear seat between the cushion and seatback below the symbols as shown. Follow the child seat manufacturer's instructions to properly install a child seat with LATCH attachments.

Follow the instructions on attaching child safety seats with tether straps. See Using Tether Straps later in this chapter.

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Attach LATCH lower attachments of the child seat only to the anchors shown.

Use of Inboard Lower Anchors from the Outboard Seating Positions (Center Seating Use)

WARNING

The standardized spacing for LATCH lower anchors is 11 inches (28

centimeters) center to center. Do not use LATCH lower anchors for the center seating position unless the child seat manufacturer's instructions permit and specify using anchors spaced at least as far apart as those in this vehicle.

The lower anchors at the center of the second row bench seat are spaced 20.5 inches (52 centimeters) apart. The standardized spacing for LATCH lower anchors is 11 inches (28 centimeters) center to center. A child seat with rigid LATCH attachments cannot be installed at the center seating position. LATCH compatible child seats (with attachments on belt webbing) can only be used at this seating position provided that the child seat manufacturer’s instructions permit use with the anchor spacing stated. Do not attach a child seat to any lower anchor if an adjacent child seat is attached to that anchor.

Each time you use the safety seat, check that the seat is properly attached to the lower anchors and tether anchor, if applicable. Tug the child seat from side to side and forward and back where it is secured to your vehicle. The seat should move less than one inch when you do this for a proper installation.

If the safety seat is not anchored properly, the risk of a child being injured in a crash greatly increases.

Combining Seatbelt and LATCH Lower Anchors for Attaching Child Safety Seats

When used in combination, either the seatbelt or the LATCH lower anchors may be attached first, provided a proper installation is achieved. Attach the tether strap afterward, if included with the child seat.

Using Tether Straps

Many forward-facing child safety seats include a tether strap

which extends from the back of the child safety seat and hooks to an anchoring point called the top tether anchor. Tether straps are available as an accessory for many older safety seats.

Contact the manufacturer of your child seat for information about ordering a tether strap, or to obtain a longer tether strap if the tether strap on your safety seat does not reach the appropriate top tether anchor in your vehicle.

Once the child safety seat has been installed using either the safety belt, the lower anchors of the LATCH system, or both, you can attach the top tether strap.

The tether strap anchors in your vehicle are in the following positions (shown from top view):

Second row bucket seats and third row passenger side

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Child Safety

Second row bench seats and third row passenger side

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Perform the following steps to install a child safety seat with tether anchors:

Note: If you install a child seat with rigid LATCH attachments, do not tighten the tether strap enough to lift the child seat off your vehicle seat cushion when the child is seated in it. Keep the tether strap just snug without lifting the front of the child seat. Keeping the child seat just touching your vehicle seat gives the best protection in a severe crash.

Placement of the tether strap

• Second row outboard seat positions: Route the child safety seat tether strap over the seatback, under the head restraint and between the head restraint posts. If needed, remove the head restraint to improve the fit of the child safety seat or tether strap.

• Second row center seat positions: Route the child safety seat tether strap over the top of the head restraint. If needed, remove the head restraint to improve the fit of the child safety seat or tether strap. See Head Restraints (page 123).

• Third row seat position: Route the child safety seat tether strap over the seat back, under the head restraint and between the head restraint posts. If needed, fold the head restraint down to improve the fit of the child safety seat or tether strap. See Head Restraints (page 123).

1. Route the tether strap.

2. Locate the correct anchor for the selected seating position.

3. Clip the tether strap to the anchor as shown. The tether hook may be twisted ½ turn to improve installation. If the tether strap is clipped incorrectly, the child safety seat may not be retained properly in the event of a crash.

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Child Safety

4. Tighten the child safety seat tether strap according to the manufacturer's instructions.

If the safety seat is not anchored properly, the risk of a child being injured in a crash greatly increases.

If your child restraint system is equipped with a tether strap, and the child restraint manufacturer recommends its use, we also recommend its use.

Second row bucket (40/40)

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Second row bench (60/40)

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Third row seat

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Note: The cargo tie downs at the rear edge of the floor are not tether anchors.

BOOSTER SEATS

WARNING

Never place, or allow a child to place, the shoulder belt under a child's arm

or behind the back because it reduces the protection for the upper part of the body and may increase the risk of injury or death in a crash.

Note: Some booster seat safety belt guides may not accommodate the shoulder portion of the inflatable safety belt.

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Use a belt-positioning booster seat for children who have outgrown or no longer properly fit in a child safety seat (generally children who are less than 4 feet 9 inches (1.45 meters) tall, are greater than age four (4) and less than age twelve (12), and between 40 pounds (18 kilograms) and 80 pounds (36 kilograms) and upward to 100 pounds (45 kilograms) if recommended by your child restraint manufacturer). Many state and provincial laws require that children use approved booster seats until they reach age eight, a height of 4 feet 9 inches (1.45 meters) tall, or 80 pounds (36 kilograms).

Booster seats should be used until you can answer YES to ALL of these questions when seated without a booster seat:

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• Can the child sit all the way back against their vehicle seat back with knees bent comfortably at the edge of the seat cushion?

• Can the child sit 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?

Always use booster seats in conjunction with your vehicle lap and shoulder belt.

Types of Booster Seats

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• Backless booster seats If your backless booster seat has a

removable shield, remove the shield. If a vehicle seating position has a low seat back or no head restraint, a backless booster seat may place your child's head (as measured at the tops of the ears) above the top of the seat. In this case, move the backless booster to another seating position with a higher seat back or head restraint and lap and shoulder belts, or consider using a high back booster seat.

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• High back booster seats If, with a backless booster seat, you cannot

find a seating position that adequately supports your child's head, a high back booster seat would be a better choice.

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Child Safety

Children and booster seats vary in size and shape. Choose a booster that keeps the lap belt low and snug across the hips, never up across the stomach, and lets you adjust the shoulder belt to cross the chest and rest snugly near the center of the shoulder. The following drawings compare

the ideal fit (center) to a shoulder belt uncomfortably close to the neck and a shoulder belt that could slip off the shoulder. The drawings also show how the lap belt should be low and snug across the child's hips.

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If the booster seat slides on the vehicle seat upon which it is being used, placing a rubberized mesh sold as shelf or carpet liner under the booster seat may improve this condition. Do not introduce any item thicker than this under the booster seat. Check with the booster seat manufacturer's instructions.

CHILD RESTRAINT POSITIONING

WARNINGS

Airbags can kill or injure a child in a child seat. Never place a rear-facing

child seat in front of an active airbag. If you must use a forward-facing child seat in the front seat, move the vehicle seat upon which the child seat is installed all

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+ 387 hidden pages

Ford Flex 2016 Owner's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

ABOUT THIS MANUAL

SYMBOLS GLOSSARY

Introduction

DATA RECORDING

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65

PERCHLORATE

FORD CREDIT

REPLACEMENT PARTS RECOMMENDATION

SPECIAL NOTICES

MOBILE COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT

EXPORT UNIQUE OPTIONS

PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT

Environment

GENERAL INFORMATION

Child Safety

INSTALLING CHILD RESTRAINTS

BOOSTER SEATS

CHILD RESTRAINT POSITIONING