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The safety canopy is mounted to roof side-rail sheet metal, behind the
headliner, above each row of seats. The safety canopy is designed toinflate between the side window area and occupants to further enhanceprotection provided in side impact collisions and rollover events.
The fact that the safety canopy did not activate in a collision does not
mean that something is wrong with the system. Rather, it means theforces were not of the type sufficient to cause activation. The safetycanopy is designed to inflate in certain side impact collisions or rolloverevents, not in rear impact, frontal or near-frontal collisions, unless thecollision causes sufficient lateral deceleration or rollover likelihood.
WARNING: Several Safety
Canopy System components
get hot after inflation. Do nottouch them after inflation.
WARNING: If the Safety Canopy System has deployed, the
safety canopy will not function again unless replaced. The Safety
Canopy System (including the A, B, C, and D pillar trim and headliner)must be inspected and serviced by an authorized dealer. If the safetycanopy is not replaced, it will not function again, which will increasethe risk of injury in a future collision.
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 Warning lights and
chimes in the Instrument Cluster chapter. Routine maintenance of the
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A difficulty with the system is indicated by one or more of the following:
•The readiness light (same light as for front airbag system) 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 authorized dealer immediately. Unless serviced, the system maynot function properly in the event of a collision.
SOS Post-Crash Alert System™
The system automatically flashes the turn signal lamps and sounds the
horn three times at four second intervals in the event of a serious impactthat deploys an airbag (front, side, side curtain or Safety Canopy /H23041)o r
the safety belt pretensioners.
The system can be turned off when any one of the following actions are
taken by the driver or any other person:
•pressing the hazard control button,
•or pressing the panic button on the remote entry transmitter.
The feature will continue to operate until the vehicle runs out of power.
Disposal of airbags and airbag equipped vehicles (including
pretensioners)
Contact your authorized dealer as soon as possible. Airbags MUST BE
disposed of by qualified personnel.
SAFETY RESTRAINTS FOR CHILDREN
See the following sections for directions on how to properly use safety
restraints for children. Also see Airbag supplemental restraint system
(SRS) in this chapter for special instructions about using airbags.
Important child restraint precautions
WARNING: 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 purchased separately from the vehicle.Failure to follow these instructions and guidelines may result in anincreased risk of serious injury or death to your child.Seating and Safety Restraints
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WARNING: All children are shaped differently. The
Recommendations for Safety Restraints are based on probable
child height, age and weight thresholds from NHTSA and other safety
organizations or are the minimum requirements of law. Fordrecommends checking with a NHTSA Certified Child Passenger SafetyTechnician (CPST) and consult your pediatrician to make sure yourchild seat is appropriate for your child, and is compatible with andproperly installed in the vehicle. To locate a child seat fitting stationand CPST contact the NHTSA toll free at 1-888-327-4236 or on theinternet at http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov. In Canada, check with your localSt. John Ambulance office for referral to a CPST or for furtherinformation, contact your provincial ministry of transportation, yourlocal St. John Ambulance office at http://www.sfa.ca, or TransportCanada at 1–800–333–0371 (http://www.tc.gc.ca). Failure to properlyrestrain children in safety seats made especially for their height, age,and weight may result in an increased risk of serious injury or death toyour child.
Recommendations for Safety Restraints for Children
Child size, height, weight, or ageRecommended
restraint type
Infants ortoddlersChildren weighing 40 lb (18 kg) orless (generally age four or younger)Use a child safetyseat (sometimescalled an infantcarrier, convertibleseat, or toddlerseat).
SmallchildrenChildren who have outgrown or nolonger properly fit in a child safetyseat (generally children who are lessthan 4 feet 9 inches (1.45 meters)tall, are greater than age four (4)and less than age twelve (12), andbetween 40 lb (18 kg) and 80 lb(36 kg) and upward to 100 lb(45 kg) if recommended by yourchild restraint manufacturer)Use abelt-positioningbooster seat.Seating and Safety Restraints
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Recommendations for Safety Restraints for Children
Child size, height, weight, or ageRecommended
restraint type
LargerchildrenChildren who have outgrown or nolonger properly fit in abelt-positioning booster seat(generally children who are at least4 feet 9 inches (1.45 meters) tall orgreater than 80 lb (36 kg) or 100 lb(45 kg) if recommended by childrestraint manufacturer)Use a vehiclesafety belt havingthe lap belt snugand low across thehips, shoulder beltcentered acrossthe shoulder andchest, andseatback upright.
•You are required by law to properly use safety seats for infants and
toddlers in the U.S. and Canada.
•Many states and provinces require that small children use approved
booster seats until they reach age eight, a height of 4 ft 9 in.
(1.45 meters) tall, or 80 lb (36 kg). Check your local and state orprovincial laws for specific requirements regarding the safety ofchildren in your vehicle.
•When possible, always properly restrain children twelve (12) years of
age and under in a rear seating position of your vehicle. Accidentstatistics suggest that children are safer when properly restrained inthe rear seating positions than in a front seating position.Seating and Safety Restraints
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Recommendations for attaching child safety restraints for children
Restraint
TypeChild
WeightUse any attachment method as indicated
below by “X”
LATCH(loweranchorsandtoptetheranchor)LATCH(loweranchorsonly)SafetybeltandtoptetheranchorSafetybelt andLATCH(loweranchorsand toptetheranchor)Safetybeltonly
Rearfacingchild seatUp to48 lb(21 kg)XX
Forwardfacingchild seatUp to48 lb(21 kg)XX X
Forwardfacingchild seatOver48 lb(21 kg)XX
WARNING: 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 all the way back. When possible, all children age 12 andunder should be properly restrained in a rear seating position. If allchildren cannot be seated and restrained properly in a rear seatingposition, properly restrain the largest child in the front seat.Seating and Safety Restraints
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WARNING: Always carefully follow the instructions and
warnings provided by the manufacturer of any child restraint to
determine if the restraint device is appropriate for your child’s size,
height, weight, or age. Follow the child restraint manufacturer’sinstructions and warnings provided for installation and use inconjunction with the instructions and warnings provided by the vehiclemanufacturer. A safety seat that is improperly installed or utilized, isinappropriate for your child’s height, age, or weight or does notproperly fit the child may increase the risk of serious injury or death.
WARNING: 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, which may result in serious injury ordeath.
WARNING: Never use pillows, books, or towels to boost a child.
They can slide around and increase the likelihood of injury or
death in a collision.
WARNING: Always restrain an unoccupied child seat or booster
seat. These objects may become projectiles in a collision or
sudden stop, which may increase the risk of serious injury.
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 riskof injury or death in a collision.
WARNING: Do not leave children, unreliable adults, or pets
unattended in your vehicle.
Transporting children
Always make sure your child is secured properly in a device that is
appropriate for their age, height and weight. All children are shapeddifferently. The child height, age and weight thresholds provided arerecommendations or the minimum requirements of law. The NationalHighway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides education andSeating and Safety Restraints
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training to ensure that all children ages 0 to 16 are properly restrained in
the correct restraint system. Ford recommends checking with a NHTSACertified Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) and yourpediatrician to make sure your seat is appropriate for your child andproperly installed in the vehicle. To locate a child seat fitting station andCPST contact the NHTSA toll free at 1-888-327-4236 or on the internet
at http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov. In Canada, check with your local St. JohnAmbulance office for referral to a CPST or for further information,contact your provincial ministry of transportation, your local St. JohnAmbulance office at http://www.sfa.ca, or Transport Canada at1–800–333–0371 (http://www.tc.gc.ca).
Follow all the safety restraint and airbag precautions that apply to adult
passengers in your vehicle.
If the child is the proper height, age, and weight (as specified by your
child safety seat or booster manufacturer), fits the restraint and can berestrained properly, then restrain the child in the child safety seat orwith the belt-positioning booster. Remember that child seats andbelt-positioning boosters vary and may be designed to fit children ofdifferent heights, ages and weights. Children who are too large for childsafety seats or belt-positioning boosters (as specified by your child safetyseat manufacturer) should always properly wear safety belts.
SAFETY SEATS FOR CHILDRENInfant and/or toddler seats
Use a safety seat that is recommended for the size and weight of the
child.
When installing a child safety seat:•Review and follow the information
presented in the Airbag
supplemental restraint system
(SRS) section in this chapter.
•Carefully follow all of the
manufacturer’s instructionsincluded with the safety seat youput in your vehicle. If you do notinstall and use the safety seatproperly, the child may be injuredin a sudden stop or collision.Seating and Safety Restraints
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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 aforward-facing child seat in the front seat, move the vehicle seat all theway back.
Children 12 and under should be properly restrained in a rear seating
position whenever possible. If all children cannot be seated andrestrained properly in a rear seating position, properly restrain thelargest child in the front seat.
Installing child safety seats with combination lap and shoulder
belts
Check to make sure the child seat is properly secured before each use.
Children 12 and under should be properly restrained in a rear seatingposition whenever possible. If all children cannot be seated andrestrained properly in a rear seating position, properly restrain thelargest child in the front seat.
When installing a child safety seat with combination lap/shoulder belts:•Use the correct safety belt 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 help prevent accidental unbuckling.
•Place vehicle seat back in upright position.
•Put the safety belt in the automatic locking mode. Refer to step 5
below. This vehicle does not require the use of a locking clip.
WARNING: Depending on where you secure a child restraint,
and depending on the child restraint design, you may block
access to certain safety belt buckle assemblies and/or LATCH loweranchors, rendering those features potentially unusable. To avoid risk ofinjury, occupants should only use seating positions where they are ableto be properly restrained.Seating and Safety Restraints
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If you are using a Regular Cab center seat, see Installing child safety
seats in cinch tongue combination lap and shoulder belt seating
position later in this chapter for instructions.
Perform the following steps when installing the child seat withcombination lap/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.
1. Position the child safety seat in a
seat with a combination lap andshoulder belt.
2. Pull down on the shoulder belt
and then grasp the shoulder beltand lap belt together.Seating and Safety Restraints
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3. While holding the shoulder and
lap belt portions together, route thetongue through the child seataccording to the child seatmanufacturer’s instructions. Be surethe belt webbing is not twisted.
4. Insert the belt tongue into the
proper buckle (the buckle closest tothe direction the tongue is comingfrom) for that seating position untilyou hear a snap and feel the latchengage. Make sure the tongue islatched securely by pulling on it.
5. To put the retractor in the
automatic locking mode, grasp theshoulder portion of the belt and pulldownward until all of the belt ispulled out and a click is heard.
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.
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 5and 6.Seating and Safety Restraints
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8. Remove remaining slack from the
belt. Force the seat down with extraweight, e.g., by pressing down orkneeling on the child restraint whilepulling up on the shoulder belt inorder to force slack from the belt.This is necessary to remove theremaining slack that will exist oncethe additional weight of the child isadded to the child restraint. It alsohelps to achieve the propersnugness of the child seat to thevehicle. Sometimes, a slight leantowards the buckle will additionallyhelp to remove remaining slack from the belt.
9. Attach the tether strap (if the child seat is equipped). Refer to
Attaching child safety seats with tether straps later in this chapter.
10. Before placing the child in theseat, forcibly move the seat forwardand back to make sure the seat issecurely held in place. To checkthis, grab the seat at the belt pathand attempt to move it side to sideand forward and back. There shouldbe no more than 1 inch (2.5 cm) ofmovement for proper installation.
11. Ford recommends checking with a NHTSA Certified Child Passenger
Safety Technician (CPST) to make certain the child restraint is properlyinstalled.
Installing child safety seats in cinch tongue combination lap and
shoulder belt seating position (front center seating position only)
If you are using a regular cab center seat, see Center front safety belt
(Regular Cab center seating position only) under Combination lap
and shoulder belts earlier in this chapter for instructions on attaching
the mini-buckle.The belt webbing below the tongue is the lap portion of the combination
lap/shoulder belt, and the belt webbing above the tongue is the shoulderbelt portion of the combination lap/shoulder belt.Seating and Safety Restraints
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WARNING: Always use both lap and shoulder safety belt in the
Regular Cab center seating position.
1. Position the child safety seat in
the Regular Cab center front seat.
2. If the center lap/shoulder safety
belt has been disconnected from theseat to carry large cargo behind theseat, reconnect it by buckling thesmall buckle on the end of the beltinto the mini-buckle on the driver’sside.
WARNING: Airbags can kill or injure a child in a child seat. If
you must use a forward-facing child seat in the front seat, move
seat all the way back.
WARNING: Rear facing child seats should NEVER be placed in
front of an active airbag.Seating and Safety Restraints
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3. Slide the tongue up the webbing.
4. While holding both shoulder and
lap portions next to the tongue,route the tongue and webbingthrough the child seat according tothe child seat manufacturer’sinstructions. Be sure that the beltwebbing is not twisted.
5. Insert the belt tongue into the
proper buckle (the buckle closest tothe direction the tongue is comingfrom) for that seating position untilyou hear a snap and feel the latchengage. Make sure the tongue islatched securely by pulling on it.Seating and Safety Restraints
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6. While pushing down with your
knee on the child seat pull up onthe shoulder belt portion to tightenthe lap belt portion of thecombination lap and shoulder belt.
7. Allow the safety belt to retract and remove any slack in the belt to
securely tighten the child safety seat in the vehicle.
8. Attach the tether strap (if the child seat is equipped). Refer to
Attaching child safety seats with tether straps later in this chapter.
9. Before placing the child into the
child seat, forcibly pull the childseat forward and back to make surethat the seat is held securely inplace. To check this, grab the seatat the belt path and attempt tomove it side to side and forward andback. There should be no more than1 inch (2.5 cm) of movement forproper installation.
10. Check from time to time to be sure that there is no slack in the
lap/shoulder belt. The shoulder belt must be snug to keep the lap belttight during a collision.
11. Ford recommends checking with a NHTSA Certified Child Passenger
Safety Technician (CPST) to make certain the child restraint is properlyinstalled. In Canada, check with your local St. John Ambulance office forreferral to a CPST.
Installing child safety seats in the front row lap belt seating
positions (SuperCab and SuperCrew)
WARNING: Installing a child safety seat in the front row lap
seating position should be avoided if at all possible. The
passenger sensing system does not recognize child seats in the frontcenter seating position.Seating and Safety Restraints
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WARNING: Never place a rear-facing child seat in the front
center seating position of a vehicle with rear seating positions.
1. Lengthen the lap belt. To lengthen the belt, hold the tongue so that its
bottom is perpendicular to the direction of webbing while sliding thetongue up the webbing.
2. Place the child safety seat in the center seating position.3. Route the tongue and webbing through the child seat according to the
child seat manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle for the center seating
position until you hear a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the tongue issecurely fastened to the buckle by pulling on the tongue.
5. Push down on the child seat while pulling on the loose end of the lap
belt webbing to tighten the belt.
6. Before placing the child into the child seat, forcibly tilt the child seat
from side to side and in forward direction to make sure that the seat issecurely held in place. To check this, grab the seat at the belt path andattempt to move it side to side and forward and back. There should beno more than 1 inch (2.5 cm) of movement for proper installation.
7. Ford recommends checking with a NHTSA Certified Child Passenger
Safety Technician (CPST) to make certain the child restraint is properlyinstalled. In Canada, check with your local St. John Ambulance office forreferral to a CPST.
Attaching child safety seats with LATCH (Lower Anchors and
Tethers for CHildren) attachments
The LATCH system is composed of three vehicle anchor points: two (2)
lower anchors located where the vehicle seat back and seat cushion meet(called the “seat bight”) and one (1) top tether anchor located behindthat seating position.
LATCH compatible child safety seats have two rigid or webbing mounted
attachments that connect to the two lower anchors at the LATCHequipped seating positions in your vehicle. This type of attachmentmethod eliminates the need to use safety belts to attach the child seat,however the safety belt can still be used to attach the child seat if thelower anchors are not used. For forward-facing child seats, the top tetherstrap must also be attached to the proper top tether anchor, if a toptether strap has been provided with your child seat. See Attaching child
safety seats with tether straps in this chapter for more information.Seating and Safety Restraints
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Your vehicle is equipped with LATCH lower anchors for child seat
installation at the following seating positions (LATCH is not available onF150 Regular cab) :
•F150 SuperCab and SuperCrew
The LATCH anchors are located at
the rear section of the rear seatbetween the cushion and seatback.Follow the child seat manufacturer’sinstructions to properly install achild seat with LATCH attachments.
Follow the instructions later in this chapter on attaching child safety
seats with tether straps.
Attach LATCH lower attachments of the child seat only to the anchors
shown.
WARNING: 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 seriousinjury or death.
WARNING: Depending on where you secure a child restraint,
and depending on the child restraint design, you may block
access to certain safety belt buckle assemblies and/or LATCH loweranchors, rendering those features potentially unusable. To avoid risk ofinjury, occupants should only use seating positions where they are ableto be properly restrained.Seating and Safety Restraints
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Use of inboard lower anchors from the outboard seating positions
(center seating use)
The lower anchors at the center of the second row rear seat are spaced
652 mm (25.7 inches) apart. The standardized spacing for LATCH loweranchors is 280 mm (11 inches) center to center. A child seat with rigidLATCH attachments cannot be installed at the center seating position.LATCH compatible child seats (with attachments on belt webbing) canonly be used at this seating position provided that the child seatmanufacturer’s instructions permit use with the anchor spacing stated.Do not attach a child seat to any lower anchor if an adjacent child seat isattached to that anchor.
WARNING: The standardized spacing for LATCH lower anchors
is 280 mm (11 inches) 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 atleast as far apart as those in this vehicle.
Each time you use the safety seat, check that the seat is properly
attached to the lower anchors and tether anchor, if applicable. Tug thechild seat from side to side and forward and back where it is secured to
the vehicle. The seat should move less than one inch when you do thisfor a proper installation.
If the safety seat is not anchored properly, the risk of a child being
injured in a crash greatly increases.
Combining safety belt and LATCH lower anchors for attaching
child safety seats
When used in combination, either the safety belt 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. RefertoRecommendations for attaching child safety restraints for children
in this chapter.
Attaching child safety seats with 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 anchoringpoint called the top tether anchor. Tether straps are available as anaccessory for many older safety seats. Contact the manufacturer of yourchild seat for information about ordering a tether strap, or to obtain alonger tether strap if the tether strap on your safety seat does not reachthe appropriate top tether anchor in the vehicle.Seating and Safety Restraints
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The passenger seats of your vehicle are equipped with built-in tether
strap anchors located behind the seats as described below.
The tether anchors in your vehicle may be loops of webbing above the
seatback or an anchor bracket behind the seat on the rear edge of theseat cushion.
The rear seat in the SuperCab and SuperCrew has three straps along the
top of the seatback that function as both routing loops for the tetherstraps and anchor loops.
The tether strap anchors in your vehicle are in the following positions
(shown from top view):
•F150 Regular Cab
•F150 SuperCrew and SuperCab
Attach the tether strap only to the appropriate tether anchor as shown.
The tether strap may not work properly if attached somewhere other
than the correct tether anchor.
If you install a child seat with rigid LATCH attachments, do not tighten
the tether strap enough to lift the child seat off the vehicle seat cushionwhen the child is seated in it. Keep the tether strap just snug withoutlifting the front of the child seat. Keeping the child seat just touching thevehicle seat gives the best protection in a severe crash.
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 toptether strap.Seating and Safety Restraints
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Front seat tether strap attachment
1. Route the child safety seat tether strap over the back of the seat and
under the head restraint.
For vehicles with adjustable head restraints, route the tether strap under
the head restraint and between the head restraint posts, otherwise routethe tether strap over the top of the seatback.
2. Locate the correct anchor for the selected seating position.•You may need to pull the seatback forward to access the tether
anchors. Make sure the seatback is locked in the upright position
before installing the child seat.
3. Clip the tether strap to the anchor as shown.
•Regular Cab passenger and center
seats (located on back panel)
If the tether strap is clipped
incorrectly, the child safety seat maynot be retained properly in theevent of a collision.
4. Tighten the child safety seat
tether strap according to themanufacturer’s instructions.
If the safety seat is not anchored
properly, the risk of a child beinginjured in a collision greatlyincreases.Seating and Safety Restraints
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Rear seat tether strap attachment
There are three loops of webbing
just above the back of the rear seat(along the bottom edge of the rearwindow) in the SuperCab andSuperCrew. These loops are to beused as both routing loops andanchor loops for up to three childsafety seat tether straps. Forexample, the center loop can beused as a routing loop for a childsafety seat in the center rear seatand as an anchoring loop for child seats installed in the outboard rearseats.
Many tether straps cannot be tightened if the tether strap is hooked to
the loop directly behind the child seat. To provide a tight tether strap:
1. Route the tether strap under the
head restraint and through the loopdirectly behind the child seat.
2. Route the tether strap behind the
head restraint supports to a loopbehind an adjacent seating position,and hook the strap hook onto theloop. If using the driver’s side, passthe strap behind the shoulder beltmounting for the center seat.
•Always put the tether strap
through the routing loop. The
head restraint support post willhold the child seat tightly, but the head restraint post is not strongenough to hold the child seat during a collision.
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3. Tighten the tether strap
according to the child seatmanufacturer’s instructions.
If the safety seat is not anchored properly, the risk of a child being
injured in a collision greatly increases.
If your child restraint system is equipped with a tether strap, and the
child restraint manufacturer recommends its use, Ford also recommendsits use.
Child booster seats
The belt-positioning booster (booster seat) is used to improve the fit of
the vehicle safety belt. Children outgrow a typical child seat (e.g.,convertible or toddler seat) when they weigh about 40 lb (18 kg) and arearound four (4) years of age. Consult your child safety seat owner guidefor the weight, height, and age limits specific to your child safety seat.Keep your child in the child safety seat if it properly fits the child,remains appropriate for their weight, height and age AND if properlysecured to the vehicle.
Although the lap/shoulder belt will provide some protection, children
who have outgrown a typical child seat are still too small for lap/shoulderbelts to fit properly, and wearing an improperly fitted vehicle safety beltcould increase the risk of serious injury in a crash. To improve the fit ofboth the lap and shoulder belt on children who have outgrown childsafety seats, Ford Motor Company recommends use of a belt-positioningbooster.
Booster seats position a child so that vehicle lap/shoulder safety belts fit
better. They lift the child up so that the lap belt rests low across the hipsand the knees bend comfortably at the edge of the cushion, whileminimizing slouching. Booster seats may also make the shoulder belt fitbetter and more comfortably. Try to keep the belt near the middle of theshoulder and across the center of the chest. Moving the child closer (afew centimeters or inches) to the center of the vehicle, but remaining inthe same seating position, may help provide a good shoulder belt fit.
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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 andlap/shoulder belt to fit properly. Generally this is when they reach aheight of at least 4 feet 9 inches (1.45 meters) tall (around age eight toage twelve and between 40 lb (18 kg) and 80 lb (36 kg) or upward to100 lb (45 kg) if recommended by your child restraint manufacturer).Many state and provincial laws require that children use approvedbooster seats until they reach age eight, a height of 4 feet 9 inches(1.45 meters) tall, or 80 lb (36 kg).
Booster seats should be used until you can answer YES to ALL of these
questions when seated without a booster seat:
•Can the child sit all the way back
against the vehicle seat back with
knees bent comfortably at theedge 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?
Types of booster seats
There are generally two types of belt-positioning booster seats: backless
and high back. Always use booster seats in conjunction with the vehiclelap/shoulder belt.
•Backless booster seats
If your backless booster seat has a
removable shield, remove theshield. If a vehicle seating positionhas a low seat back or no headrestraint, a backless booster seatmay place your child’s head (asmeasured at the tops of the ears)above the top of the seat. In thiscase, move the backless booster
to another seating position with ahigher seat back or head restraint and lap/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 positionthat adequately supports yourchild’s head, a high back boosterseat would be a better choice.
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 thestomach, and lets you adjust the shoulder belt to cross the chest and
rest snugly near the center of the shoulder. The drawings below comparethe ideal fit (center) to a shoulder belt uncomfortably close to the neckand a shoulder belt that could slip off the shoulder. The drawings belowalso show how the lap belt should be low and snug across the child’ships.
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If the booster seat slides on the vehicle seat, placing a rubberized mesh
sold as shelf or carpet liner under the booster seat may improve thiscondition. Do not introduce any item thicker than this under the boosterseat. Check with the booster seat manufacturer’s instructions.
The importance of shoulder belts
Using a booster without a shoulder belt increases the risk of a child’s
head hitting a hard surface in a collision. For this reason, you shouldnever use a booster seat with a lap belt only. It is generally best to use abooster seat with lap/shoulder belts in the back seat.
Move a child to a different seating location if the shoulder belt does not
stay positioned on the shoulder during use.
Follow all instructions provided by the manufacturer of the booster seat.
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 collision.
Child restraint and safety belt maintenance
Inspect the vehicle safety belts and child safety seat systems periodically
to make sure they work properly and are not damaged. Inspect thevehicle and child seat safety belts to make sure there are no nicks, tearsor cuts. Replace if necessary. All vehicle safety belt assemblies, includingretractors, buckles, front safety belt buckle assemblies, buckle supportassemblies (slide bar-if equipped), shoulder belt height adjusters (ifequipped), shoulder belt guide on seatback (if equipped), child safetyseat LATCH and tether anchors, and attaching hardware, should beinspected after a collision. Refer to the child restraint manufacturer’sinstructions for additional inspection and maintenance informationspecific to the child restraint. Ford Motor Company recommends that allsafety belt assemblies in use in vehicles involved in a collision bereplaced. However, if the collision was minor and an authorized dealerfinds that the belts do not show damage and continue to operateproperly, they do not need to be replaced. Safety belt assemblies not inuse during a collision should also be inspected and replaced if eitherdamage or improper operation is noted.
For proper care of soiled safety belts, refer to Interior in the Cleaning
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WARNING: Failure to inspect and if necessary replace the
safety belt assembly or child restraint system under the above
conditions could result in severe personal injuries in the event of a
collision.Seating and Safety Restraints
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NOTICE TO UTILITY VEHICLE AND TRUCK OWNERS
Utility vehicles and trucks handle
differently than passenger cars inthe various driving conditions thatare encountered on streets,highways and off-road. Utilityvehicles and trucks are not designedfor cornering at speeds as high aspassenger cars any more thanlow-slung sports cars are designedto perform satisfactorily under
off-road conditions.
WARNING: Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover
rate than other types of vehicles. To reduce the risk of serious
injury or death from a rollover or other crash you must:
•Avoid sharp turns and abrupt maneuvers;
•Drive at safe speeds for the conditions;
•Keep tires properly inflated;
•Never overload or improperly load your vehicle; and
•Make sure every passenger is properly restrained.
WARNING: In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is
significantly more likely to die than a person wearing a seat belt.
All occupants must wear seat belts and children/infants must use
appropriate restraints to minimize the risk of injury or ejection.
Study your owner’s guide and any supplements for specific information
about equipment features, instructions for safe driving and additional
precautions to reduce the risk of an accident or serious injury.
VEHICLE CHARACTERISTICS4WD and AWD systems (if equipped)
A vehicle equipped with AWD or 4WD (when selected) has the ability to
use all four wheels to power itself. This increases traction which mayenable you to safely drive over terrain and road conditions that aconventional two-wheel drive vehicle cannot.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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Power is supplied to all four wheels through a transfer case or power
transfer unit. 4WD vehicles allow you to select different drive modes asnecessary. Information on transfer case operation and shifting procedurescan be found in the Driving chapter. Information on transfer case
maintenance can be found in the Maintenance and Specifications
chapter. You should become thoroughly familiar with this informationbefore you operate your vehicle.
On some 4WD models, the initial shift from two-wheel drive to 4WD
while the vehicle is moving can cause a momentary clunk and ratchetingsound. These sounds are normal as the front drivetrain comes up tospeed and is not cause for concern.
WARNING: Do not become overconfident in the ability of 4WD
and AWD vehicles. Although a 4WD or AWD vehicle may
accelerate better than two-wheel drive vehicle in low tractionsituations, it won’t stop any faster than two-wheel drive vehicles.Always drive at a safe speed.
How your vehicle differs from other vehicles
SUVs and trucks can differ from
some other vehicles in a fewnoticeable ways. Your vehicle maybe:
•Higher – to allow higher load
carrying capacity and to allow it
to travel over rough terrainwithout getting hung up ordamaging underbody components.
•Shorter – to give it the capability
to approach inclines and driveover the crest of a hill withoutgetting hung up or damagingunderbody components. All otherthings held equal, a shorterwheelbase may make your vehiclequicker to respond to steering inputs than a vehicle with a longerwheelbase.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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•Narrower – to provide greater
maneuverability in tight spaces,
particularly in off-road use.
As a result of the above dimensionaldifferences, SUVs and trucks oftenwill have a higher center of gravityand a greater difference in center ofgravity between the loaded andunloaded condition.
These differences that make your
vehicle so versatile also make ithandle differently than an ordinarypassenger car.
INFORMATION ABOUT UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADING
Tire Quality Grades apply to new
pneumatic passenger car tires. TheQuality grades can be found whereapplicable on the tire sidewallbetween tread shoulder andmaximum section width. Forexample:
•Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A
These Tire Quality Grades are determined by standards that the United
States Department of Transportation has set.
Tire Quality Grades apply to new pneumatic passenger car tires. They do
not apply to deep tread, winter-type snow tires, space-saver ortemporary use spare tires, light truck or “LT” type tires, tires withnominal rim diameters of 10 to 12 inches or limited production tires asdefined in Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 575.104(c)(2).
U.S. Department of Transportation-Tire quality grades: The U.S.
Department of Transportation requires Ford Motor Company to give you
the following information about tire grades exactly as the governmenthas written it.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of
the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specifiedgovernment test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear oneand one-half (1
1⁄2) times as well on the government course as a tire
graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actualconditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from thenorm due to variations in driving habits, service practices, anddifferences in road characteristics and climate.
Traction AA A B C
The traction grades, from highest to lowest are AA, A, B, and C. The
grades represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as measuredunder controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces ofasphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor tractionperformance.
WARNING: The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on
straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include
acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning or peak traction characteristics.
Temperature A B C
The temperature grades are A (the highest), B and C, representing the
tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heatwhen tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratorytest wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tireto degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead tosudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performancewhich all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor VehicleSafety Standard No. 139. Grades B and A represent higher levels ofperformance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required bylaw.
WARNING: The temperature grade for this tire is established
for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive
speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately or incombination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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TIRES
Tires are designed to give many thousands of miles of service, but they
must be maintained in order to get the maximum benefit from them.
Glossary of tire terminology
•Tire label: A label showing the OE (Original Equipment) tire sizes,
recommended inflation pressure and the maximum weight the vehicle
can carry.
•Tire Identification Number (TIN): A number on the sidewall of
each tire providing information about the tire brand andmanufacturing plant, tire size and date of manufacture. Also referredto as DOT code.
•Inflation pressure: A measure of the amount of air in a tire.
•Standard load: A class of P-metric or Metric tires designed to carry a
maximum load at 35 psi [37 psi (2.5 bar) for Metric tires]. Increasingthe inflation pressure beyond this pressure will not increase the tire’sload carrying capability.
•Extra load: A class of P-metric or Metric tires designed to carry a
heavier maximum load at 41 psi [43 psi (2.9 bar) for Metric tires].Increasing the inflation pressure beyond this pressure will not increasethe tire’s load carrying capability.
•kPa: Kilopascal, a metric unit of air pressure.
•PSI: Pounds per square inch, a standard unit of air pressure.
•Cold inflation pressure: The tire pressure when the vehicle has
been stationary and out of direct sunlight for an hour or more andprior to the vehicle being driven for 1 mile (1.6 km).
•Recommended inflation pressure: The cold inflation pressure found
on the Safety Compliance Certification Label or Tire Label located onthe B-Pillar or the edge of the driver’s door.
•B-pillar: The structural member at the side of the vehicle behind the
front door.
•Bead area of the tire: Area of the tire next to the rim.
•Sidewall of the tire: Area between the bead area and the tread.
•Tread area of the tire: Area of the perimeter of the tire that
contacts the road when mounted on the vehicle.
•Rim: The metal support (wheel) for a tire or a tire and tube assembly
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INFLATING YOUR TIRES
Safe operation of your vehicle requires that your tires are properly
inflated. Remember that a tire can lose up to half of its air pressurewithout appearing flat.
Every day before you drive, check your tires. If one looks lower than the
others, use a tire gauge to check pressure of all tires and adjust ifrequired.
At least once a month and before long trips, inspect each tire and check
the tire pressure with a tire gauge (including spare, if equipped). Inflateall tires to the inflation pressure recommended by Ford Motor Company.
You are strongly urged to buy a reliable tire pressure gauge, as automatic
service station gauges may be inaccurate. Ford recommends the use of adigital or dial-type tire pressure gauge rather than a stick-type tirepressure gauge.
Use the recommended cold inflation pressure for optimum tire
performance and wear. Under-inflation or over-inflation may causeuneven treadwear patterns.
WARNING: Under-inflation is the most common cause of tire
failures and may result in severe tire cracking, tread separation
or “blowout”, with unexpected loss of vehicle control and increasedrisk of injury. Under-inflation increases sidewall flexing and rollingresistance, resulting in heat buildup and internal damage to the tire. Italso may result in unnecessary tire stress, irregular wear, loss ofvehicle control and accidents. A tire can lose up to half of its airpressure and not appear to be flat!
Always inflate your tires to the Ford recommended inflation pressureeven if it is less than the maximum inflation pressure information foundon the tire. The Ford recommended tire inflation pressure is found onthe Safety Compliance Certification Label or Tire Label which is locatedon the B-Pillar or the edge of the driver’s door. Failure to follow the tirepressure recommendations can cause uneven treadwear patterns andadversely affect the way your vehicle handles.
Maximum Permissible Inflation Pressure is the tire manufacturer’s
maximum permissible pressure and/or the pressure at which the
maximum load can be carried by the tire. This pressure is normallyhigher than the manufacturer’s recommended cold inflation pressurewhich can be found on the Safety Compliance Certification Label or TireLabel which is located on the B-Pillar or the edge of the driver’s door.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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The cold inflation pressure should never be set lower than the
recommended pressure on the Safety Compliance Certification Label orTire Label.
When weather temperature changes occur, tire inflation pressures also
change. A 10°F (6°C) temperature drop can cause a corresponding dropof 1 psi (7 kPa) in inflation pressure. Check your tire pressuresfrequently and adjust them to the proper pressure which can be foundon the Safety Compliance Certification Label or Tire Label.
To check the pressure in your tire(s):1. Make sure the tires are cool, meaning they are not hot from driving
even a mile.
If you are checking tire pressure when the tire is hot, (i.e. driven more
than 1 mile [1.6 km]), never “bleed” or reduce air pressure. The tires arehot from driving and it is normal for pressures to increase aboverecommended cold pressures. A hot tire at or below recommended coldinflation pressure could be significantly under-inflated.
Note: If you have to drive a distance to get air for your tire(s), check
and record the tire pressure first and add the appropriate air pressure
when you get to the pump. It is normal for tires to heat up and the airpressure inside to go up as you drive.
2. Remove the cap from the valve on one tire, then firmly press the tire
gauge onto the valve and measure the pressure.
3. Add enough air to reach the recommended air pressure.Note: If you overfill the tire, release air by pressing on the metal stem in
the center of the valve. Then recheck the pressure with your tire gauge.4. Replace the valve cap.5. Repeat this procedure for each tire, including the spare.Note: Some spare tires operate at a higher inflation pressure than the
other tires. For T-type/mini-spare tires (see the Dissimilar spare
tire/wheel information section for description): Store and maintain at
60 psi (4.15 bar). For full-size and dissimilar spare tires (see the
Dissimilar spare tire/wheel information section for description): Store
and maintain at the higher of the front and rear inflation pressure asshown on the Tire Label.
6. Visually inspect the tires to make sure there are no nails or other
objects embedded that could poke a hole in the tire and cause an airleak.
7. Check the sidewalls to make sure there are no gouges, cuts or bulges.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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TIRE CARE
Inspecting your tires and wheel valve stems
Periodically inspect the tire treads for uneven or excessive wear and
remove objects such as stones, nails or glass that may be wedged in thetread grooves. Check the tire and valve stems for holes, cracks, or cutsthat may permit air leakage and repair or replace the tire and replacethe valve stem. Inspect the tire sidewalls for cracking, cuts, bruises andother signs of damage or excessive wear. If internal damage to the tire issuspected, have the tire demounted and inspected in case it needs to berepaired or replaced. For your safety, tires that are damaged or showsigns of excessive wear should not be used because they are more likelyto blow out or fail.
Improper or inadequate vehicle maintenance can cause tires to wear
abnormally. Inspect all your tires, including the spare, frequently, andreplace them if one or more of the following conditions exist:
Tire wear
When the tread is worn down to
1/16th of an inch (2 mm), tires mustbe replaced to help prevent yourvehicle from skidding andhydroplaning. Built-in treadwearindicators, or “wear bars”, whichlook like narrow strips of smoothrubber across the tread will appearon the tire when the tread is worndown to 1/16th of an inch (2 mm).When the tire tread wears down to
the same height as these “wear bars”, the tire is worn out and must bereplaced.
Damage
Periodically inspect the tire treads and sidewalls for damage (such as
bulges in the tread or sidewalls, cracks in the tread groove andseparation in the tread or sidewall). If damage is observed or suspectedhave the tire inspected by a tire professional. Tires can be damagedduring off-road use, so inspection after off-road use is also
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WARNING: Age
Tires degrade over time depending on many factors such as
weather, storage conditions, and conditions of use (load, speed,inflation pressure, etc.) the tires experience throughout their lives.In general, tires should be replaced after six years regardless of treadwear. However, heat caused by hot climates or frequent high loadingconditions can accelerate the aging process and may require tires to bereplaced more frequently.You should replace your spare tire when you replace the road tires orafter six years due to aging even if it has not been used.
U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN)
Both U.S. and Canada Federal regulations require tire manufacturers to
place standardized information on the sidewall of all tires. Thisinformation identifies and describes the fundamental characteristics ofthe tire and also provides a U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number forsafety standard certification and in case of a recall.
This begins with the letters “DOT” and indicates that the tire meets all
federal standards. The next two numbers or letters are the plant codedesignating where it was manufactured, the next two are the tire sizecode and the last four numbers represent the week and year the tire wasbuilt. For example, the numbers 317 mean the 31st week of 1997. After2000 the numbers go to four digits. For example, 2501 means the 25thweek of 2001. The numbers in between are identification codes used fortraceability. This information is used to contact customers if a tire defectrequires a recall.
Tire replacement requirements
Your vehicle is equipped with tires designed to provide a safe ride and
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WARNING: Only use replacement tires and wheels that are the
same size, load index, speed rating and type (such as P-metric
versus LT-metric or all-season versus all-terrain) as those originally
provided by Ford. The recommended tire and wheel size may be foundon either the Safety Compliance Certification Label or the Tire Labelwhich is located on the B-Pillar or edge of the driver’s door. If thisinformation is not found on these labels then you should contact yourauthorized dealer as soon as possible. Use of any tire or wheel notrecommended by Ford can affect the safety and performance of yourvehicle, which could result in an increased risk of loss of vehiclecontrol, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death. Additionally the useof non-recommended tires and wheels could cause steering,suspension, axle or transfer case/power transfer unit failure. If youhave questions regarding tire replacement, contact your authorizeddealer as soon as possible.
WARNING: When mounting replacement tires and wheels, you
should not exceed the maximum pressure indicated on the
sidewall of the tire to set the beads without additional precautionslisted below. If the beads do not seat at the maximum pressureindicated, re-lubricate and try again.When inflating the tire for mounting pressures up to 20 psi (1.38 bar)greater than the maximum pressure on the tire sidewall, the followingprecautions must be taken to protect the person mounting the tire:
1. Make sure that you have the correct tire and wheel size.
2. Lubricate the tire bead and wheel bead seat area again.3. Stand at a minimum of 12 ft (3.66 m) away from the tire wheel
assembly.
4. Use both eye and ear protection.
For a mounting pressure more than 20 psi (1.38 bar) greater than themaximum pressure, a Ford dealer or other tire service professionalshould do the mounting.Always inflate steel carcass tires with a remote air fill with the personinflating standing at a minimum of 12 ft (3.66 m) away from the tirewheel assembly.
Important: Remember to replace the wheel valve stems when the road
tires are replaced on your vehicle.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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It is recommended that the two front tires or two rear tires generally be
replaced as a pair.
The tire pressure sensors mounted in the wheels (originally installed on
your vehicle) are not designed to be used in aftermarket wheels.
The use of wheels or tires not recommended by Ford Motor Company
may affect the operation of your tire pressure monitoring system.
If the TPMS indicator is flashing, your TPMS is malfunctioning. Your
replacement tire might be incompatible with your TPMS, or somecomponent of the TPMS may be damaged.
Safety practices
Driving habits have a great deal to do with your tire mileage and safety.•Observe posted speed limits
•Avoid fast starts, stops and turns
•Avoid potholes and objects on the road
•Do not run over curbs or hit the tire against a curb when parking
WARNING: If your vehicle is stuck in snow, mud, sand, etc., do
not rapidly spin the tires; spinning the tires can tear the tire and
cause an explosion. A tire can explode in as little as three to five
seconds.
WARNING: Do not spin the wheels at over 35 mph (56 km/h).
The tires may fail and injure a passenger or bystander.
Highway hazards
No matter how carefully you drive there’s always the possibility that you
may eventually have a flat tire on the highway. Drive slowly to theclosest safe area out of traffic. This may further damage the flat tire, butyour safety is more important.
If you feel a sudden vibration or ride disturbance while driving, or you
suspect your tire or vehicle has been damaged, immediately reduce yourspeed. Drive with caution until you can safely pull off the road. Stop andinspect the tires for damage. If a tire is under-inflated or damaged,deflate it, remove wheel and replace it with your spare tire and wheel. Ifyou cannot detect a cause, have the vehicle towed to the nearest repairfacility or tire dealer to have the vehicle inspected.
Tire and wheel alignment
A bad jolt from hitting a curb or pothole can cause the front end of your
vehicle to become misaligned or cause damage to your tires. If yourTires, Wheels and Loading
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vehicle seems to pull to one side when you’re driving, the wheels may be
out of alignment. Have an authorized dealer check the wheel alignmentperiodically.
Wheel misalignment in the front or the rear can cause uneven and rapid
treadwear of your tires and should be corrected by an authorized dealer.Front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicles and those with an independent rearsuspension (if equipped) may require alignment of all four wheels.
The tires should also be balanced periodically. An unbalanced tire and
wheel assembly may result in irregular tire wear.
Tire rotation
Rotating your tires at the recommended interval (as indicated in the
scheduled maintenance information that comes with your vehicle) will
help your tires wear more evenly, providing better tire performance andlonger tire life.
•Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
vehicles/Four-wheel drive
(4WD)/All-wheel drive (AWD)vehicles (front tires at top ofdiagram)
Sometimes irregular tire wear can be corrected by rotating the tires.
Note: If your tires show uneven wear ask an authorized dealer to check
for and correct any wheel misalignment, tire imbalance or mechanical
problem involved before tire rotation.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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Note: Your vehicle may be equipped with a dissimilar spare tire/wheel. A
dissimilar spare tire/wheel is defined as a spare tire and/or wheel that is
different in brand, size or appearance from the road tires and wheels. Ifyou have a dissimilar spare tire/wheel it is intended for temporary useonly and should not be used in a tire rotation.
Note: After having your tires rotated, check tire pressure and adjust to
the recommended inflation pressure.Note: The TPMS reset tool is ONLY provided for vehicles with different
front and rear tire pressures. The TPMS reset procedure needs to be
performed after tire rotation only on these vehicles.
WARNING: If the tire label shows different tire pressures for
the front and rear tires and the vehicle is equipped with TPMS
(tire pressure monitoring system), then the settings for the TPMSsensors need to be updated. Always perform the TPMS reset procedureafter tire rotation. If the system is not reset, it may not provide a lowtire pressure warning when necessary. See the TPMS reset procedurein this chapter.
INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE TIRE SIDEWALL
Both U.S. and Canada Federal regulations require tire manufacturers to
place standardized information on the sidewall of all tires. Thisinformation identifies and describes the fundamental characteristics ofthe tire and also provides a U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number forsafety standard certification and in case of a recall.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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Information on “P” type tires
P215/65R15 95H is an example of a
tire size, load index and speedrating. The definitions of theseitems are listed below. (Note thatthe tire size, load index and speedrating for your vehicle may bedifferent from this example.)
1.P:Indicates a tire, designated by
the Tire and Rim Association
(T&RA), that may be used forservice on cars, SUVs, minivans andlight trucks.
Note: If your tire size does not
begin with a letter this may mean it
is designated by either ETRTO
(European Tire and Rim Technical Organization) or JATMA (Japan TireManufacturing Association).
2.215: Indicates the nominal width of the tire in millimeters from
sidewall edge to sidewall edge. In general, the larger the number, the
wider the tire.
3.65:Indicates the aspect ratio which gives the tire’s ratio of height to
width.4.R:Indicates a “radial” type tire.
5.15:Indicates the wheel or rim diameter in inches. If you change your
wheel size, you will have to purchase new tires to match the new wheel
diameter.
6.95:Indicates the tire’s load index. It is an index that relates to how
much weight a tire can carry. You may find this information in your
Owner’s Guide. If not, contact a local tire dealer.
Note: You may not find this information on all tires because it is not
required by federal law.7.H:Indicates the tire’s speed rating. The speed rating denotes the
speed at which a tire is designed to be driven for extended periods of
time under a standard condition of load and inflation pressure. The tireson your vehicle may operate at different conditions for load and inflationpressure. These speed ratings may need to be adjusted for the differencein conditions. The ratings range from 81 mph (130 km/h) to 186 mph(299 km/h). These ratings are listed in the following chart.
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Note: You may not find this information on all tires because it is not
required by federal law.
Letter rating Speed rating - mph (km/h)
M 81 mph (130 km/h)
N 87 mph (140 km/h)
Q 99 mph (159 km/h)
R 106 mph (171 km/h)
S 112 mph (180 km/h)
T 118 mph (190 km/h)
U 124 mph (200 km/h)
H 130 mph (210 km/h)
V 149 mph (240 km/h)
W 168 mph (270 km/h)
Y 186 mph (299 km/h)
Note: For tires with a maximum speed capability over 149 mph
(240 km/h), tire manufacturers sometimes use the letters ZR. For
those with a maximum speed capability over 186 mph (299 km/h), tiremanufacturers always use the letters ZR.
8.U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN): This begins with the
letters “DOT” and indicates that the tire meets all federal standards. The
next two numbers or letters are the plant code designating where it wasmanufactured, the next two are the tire size code and the last fournumbers represent the week and year the tire was built. For example,the numbers 317 mean the 31st week of 1997. After 2000 the numbersgo to four digits. For example, 2501 means the 25th week of 2001. Thenumbers in between are identification codes used for traceability. Thisinformation is used to contact customers if a tire defect requires a recall.
9.M+S or M/S: Mud and Snow, or
AT:All Terrain, or
AS: All Season.
10.Tire Ply Composition and Material Used: Indicates the number of
plies or the number of layers of rubber-coated fabric in the tire tread and
sidewall. Tire manufacturers also must indicate the ply materials in the
tire and the sidewall, which include steel, nylon, polyester, and others.
11.Maximum Load: Indicates the maximum load in kilograms and
pounds that can be carried by the tire. Refer to the Safety Compliance
Certification Label, which is located on the B-Pillar or the edge of thedriver’s door, for the correct tire pressure for your vehicle.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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12.Treadwear, Traction and Temperature Grades
•Treadwear: The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the
wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a
specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150would wear one and one-half (1
1⁄2) times as well on the government
course as a tire graded 100.
•Traction: The traction grades, from highest to lowest are AA, A, B,
and C. The grades represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavementas measured under controlled conditions on specified government testsurfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poortraction performance.
•Temperature: The temperature grades are A (the highest), B and C,
representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and itsability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on aspecified indoor laboratory test wheel.
13.Maximum Permissible Inflation Pressure: Indicates the tire
manufacturers’ maximum permissible pressure and/or the pressure atwhich the maximum load can be carried by the tire. This pressure isnormally higher than the manufacturer’s recommended cold inflationpressure which can be found on the Safety Compliance CertificationLabel or Tire Label which is located on the B-Pillar or the edge of thedriver’s door. The cold inflation pressure should never be set lower thanthe recommended pressure on the vehicle label.
The tire suppliers may have additional markings, notes or warnings such
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Additional information contained on the tire sidewall for “LT” type
tires
“LT” type tires have some additional
information beyond those of “P”type tires; these differences aredescribed below.
Note: Tire Quality Grades do not
apply to this type of tire.1.LT:Indicates a tire, designated by
the Tire and Rim Association
(T&RA), that is intended for serviceon light trucks.
2.Load Range/Load Inflation
Limits: Indicates the tire’s
load-carrying capabilities and its
inflation limits.
3.Maximum Load Dual lb (kg) at psi (kPa) cold: Indicates the
maximum load and tire pressure when the tire is used as a dual; defined
as four tires on the rear axle (a total of six or more tires on the vehicle).
4.Maximum Load Single lb (kg) at psi (kPa) cold: Indicates the
maximum load and tire pressure when the tire is used as a single;
defined as two tires (total) on the rear axle.
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Information on “T” type tires
“T” type tires have some additional
information beyond those of “P”type tires; these differences aredescribed below:
T145/80D16 is an example of a tire
size.
Note: The temporary tire size for
your vehicle may be different from
this example. Tire Quality Grades donot apply to this type of tire.
1.T:Indicates a type of tire,
designated by the Tire and Rim
Association (T&RA), that isintended for temporary service oncars, SUVs, minivans and lighttrucks.
2.145: Indicates the nominal width
of the tire in millimeters from sidewall edge to sidewall edge. In general,
the larger the number, the wider the tire.
3.80:Indicates the aspect ratio which gives the tire’s ratio of height to
width. Numbers of 70 or lower indicate a short sidewall.4.D:Indicates a “diagonal” type tire.
R:Indicates a “radial” type tire.
5.16:Indicates the wheel or rim diameter in inches. If you change your
wheel size, you will have to purchase new tires to match the new wheel
diameter.
Location of the tire label
You will find a Tire Label containing tire inflation pressure by tire size
and other important information located on the B-Pillar or the edge ofthe driver’s door. Refer to the payload description and graphic in theVehicle loading — with and without a trailer section.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS) (IF EQUIPPED)
Each tire, including the spare (if
provided), should be checkedmonthly when cold and inflated tothe inflation pressure recommendedby the vehicle manufacturer on thevehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If your vehicle has tiresof a different size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or tireinflation pressure label, you should determine the proper tire inflationpressure for those tires.)
As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a tire
pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pressuretelltale when one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated.Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale illuminates, you shouldstop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to theproper pressure. Driving on a significantly under-inflated tire causes thetire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also reducesfuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s handlingand stopping ability.
Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire
maintenance, and it is the driver’s responsibility to maintain correct tirepressure, even if under-inflation has not reached the level to triggerillumination of the TPMS low tire pressure telltale.
Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS malfunction indicator
to indicate when the system is not operating properly. The TPMSmalfunction indicator is combined with the low tire pressure telltale.When the system detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash forapproximately one minute and then remain continuously illuminated.This sequence will continue upon subsequent vehicle start-ups as long asthe malfunction exists.
When the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the system may not be
able to detect or signal low tire pressure as intended. TPMS malfunctionsmay occur for a variety of reasons, including the installation ofreplacement or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent theTPMS from functioning properly. Always check the TPMS malfunctiontelltale after replacing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle toensure that the replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow theTPMS to continue to function properly.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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The tire pressure monitoring system complies with part 15 of the FCC
rules and with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to thefollowing two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmfulinterference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received,including interference that may cause undesired operation.
WARNING: The tire pressure monitoring system is NOT a
substitute for manually checking tire pressure. The tire pressure
should be checked periodically (at least monthly) using a tire gauge,seeInflating your tires in this chapter. Failure to properly maintain
your tire pressure could increase the risk of tire failure, loss of control,vehicle rollover and personal injury.
Changing tires with TPMS
Each road tire is equipped with
a tire pressure sensor locatedinside the tire/wheel cavity. Thepressure sensor is attached tothe valve stem. The pressuresensor is covered by the tire andis not visible unless the tire isremoved. Care must be takenwhen changing the tire to avoiddamaging the sensor. It is
recommended that you always have your tires serviced by an authorizeddealer.
The tire pressure should be checked periodically (at least monthly) using
an accurate tire gauge, refer to Inflating your tires in this chapter.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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Understanding your tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
The tire pressure monitoring system measures pressure in your four road
tires and sends the tire pressure readings to your vehicle. The low tirewarning lamp will turn on if the tire pressure is significantly low. Oncethe light is illuminated, your tires are under inflated and need to beinflated to the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure. Even if thelight turns on and a short time later turns off, your tire pressure stillneeds to be checked. Visit www.checkmytires.org for additionalinformation.
When your temporary spare tire is installed
When one of your road tires needs to be replaced with the temporary
spare, the TPMS system will continue to identify an issue to remind youthat the damaged road wheel/tire needs to be repaired and put back onyour vehicle.
To restore the full functionality of the tire pressure monitoring system,
have the damaged road wheel/tire repaired and remounted on yourvehicle. For additional information, refer to Changing tires with TPMS
in this section.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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When you believe your system is not operating properly
The main function of the tire pressure monitoring system is to warn you
when your tires need air. It can also warn you in the event the system is nolonger capable of functioning as intended. Please refer to the followingchart for information concerning your tire pressure monitoring system:
Low tire
pressurewarning lightPossiblecauseCustomer action required
Solid warning light Tire(s)
under-inflated1. Check your tire pressure toensure tires are properly inflated;refer to Inflating your tires in
this chapter.2. After inflating your tires to themanufacturer’s recommendedinflation pressure as shown on theTire Label (located on the edge ofdriver’s door or the B-Pillar), thevehicle must be driven for at leasttwo minutes over 20 mph(32 km/h) before the light willturn off.
Spare tire inuseYour temporary spare tire is inuse. Repair the damaged roadwheel/tire and reinstall it on thevehicle to restore systemfunctionality. For a description onhow the system functions, refer toWhen your temporary spare tireis installed in this section.
TPMSmalfunctionIf your tires are properly inflatedand your spare tire is not in useand the light remains on, have thesystem inspected by yourauthorized dealer.
Tire rotationwithout sensortrainingOn vehicles with different frontand rear tire pressures, the TPMSsystem must be retrained followingevery tire rotation. Refer to Tire
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Low tire
pressurewarning lightPossiblecauseCustomer action required
Flashing warninglightSpare tire inuseYour temporary spare tire is inuse. Repair the damaged roadwheel and re-mount it on thevehicle to restore systemfunctionality. For a description ofhow the system functions underthese conditions, refer to When
your temporary spare tire isinstalled in this section.
TPMSmalfunctionIf your tires are properly inflatedand your spare tire is not in useand the TPMS warning light stillflashes, have the system inspectedby your authorized dealer.
When inflating your tires
When putting air into your tires (such as at a gas station or in your
garage), the tire pressure monitoring system may not respondimmediately to the air added to your tires.
It may take up to two minutes of driving over 20 mph (32 km/h) for the
light to turn off after you have filled your tires to the recommended
inflation pressure.
How temperature affects your tire pressure
The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) monitors tire pressure in
each pneumatic tire. While driving in a normal manner, a typicalpassenger tire inflation pressure may increase approximately 2 to 4 psi(14 to 28 kPa) from a cold start situation. If the vehicle is stationaryover night with the outside temperature significantly lower than thedaytime temperature, the tire pressure may decrease approximately 3 psi(21 kPa) for a drop of 30°F (17°C) in ambient temperature. This lowerpressure value may be detected by the TPMS as being significantly lowerthan the recommended inflation pressure and activate the TPMS warningfor low tire pressure. If the low tire pressure warning light is on, visuallycheck each tire to verify that no tire is flat. (If one or more tires are flat,repair as necessary.) Check air pressure in the road tires. If any tire isunder-inflated, carefully drive the vehicle to the nearest location whereair can be added to the tires. Inflate all the tires to the recommendedinflation pressure.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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TPMS reset procedure
The TPMS reset procedure needs to be performed after each tire
rotation on vehicles that require different recommended tirepressures in the front tires as compared to the rear tires.
WARNING: To determine the required pressure(s) for your
vehicle – refer to the Safety Compliance Certification Label or
Tire Label located on the B-Pillar or the edge of the driver’s door. See
Vehicle loading - with and without a trailer in this chapter for more
information.
Overview
To provide the vehicle’s load carrying capability, some vehicles require
different recommended tire pressures in the front tires as compared to
the rear tires. The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) equipped onthese vehicles is designed to illuminate the low tire pressure warningindicator at two different pressures; one for the front tires and one forthe rear tires.
Since tires need to be rotated to provide consistent performance and
maximum tire life, the tire pressure monitoring system needs to knowwhen the tires are rotated to determine which set of tires are on thefront and which are on the rear. With this information, the system candetect and properly warn of low tire pressures.
TPMS reset tips:•To reduce the chances of interference from another vehicle, the TPMS
reset procedure should be performed at least 3 feet (1 meter) away
from another Ford Motor Company vehicle undergoing the TPMS resetprocedure at the same time.
•Do not wait more than two minutes between resetting each tire sensor
or the system will time-out and the entire procedure will have to berepeated on all four wheels.
•A double horn chirp indicates the need to repeat the procedure.
Performing the TPMS reset procedure
It is recommended that you read the entire procedure before attempting.1. Drive the vehicle above 20 mph (32 km/h) for at least two minutes
and then park in a safe location where you can easily get to all four tiresand have access to an air pump.
2. Place the ignition in the off position and keep the key in the ignition.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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3. Cycle the ignition to the on
position with the engine off.
4. Turn the hazard flashers on then
off three times. This must beaccomplished within 10 seconds.
If the reset mode has been entered successfully, the horn will sound
once, the TPMS indicator
will flash and the message center (if
equipped) will display TRAIN LEFT FRONT TIRE. If this does not
occur, please try again starting at Step 2.
If after repeated attempts to enter the reset mode, the horn does not
sound, the TPMS indicator does not flash and the message center (if
equipped) does not display TRAIN LEFT FRONT TIRE, seek service
from your authorized dealer.
5. Train the TPMS sensors in the tires using the following TPMS reset
sequence starting with the left front tire in the following clockwise
order:
•Left front (Driver’s side front tire)
•Right front (Passenger’s side front tire)
•Right rear (Passenger’s side rear tire)
•Left rear (Driver’s side rear tire)
6. Remove the valve cap from the valve stem on the left front tire.
Decrease the air pressure until the horn sounds.
Note: The single horn chirp confirms that the sensor identification code
has been learned by the module for this position. If a double horn is
heard, the reset procedure was unsuccessful, and must be repeated.
7. Remove the valve cap from the valve stem on the right front tire.
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8. Remove the valve cap from the valve stem on the right rear tire.
Decrease the air pressure until the horn sounds.
9. Remove the valve cap from the valve stem on the left rear tire.
Decrease the air pressure until the horn sounds.
Training is complete after the horn sounds for the last tire trained
(driver’s side rear tire), the TPMS tell tale stops flashing, and themessage center (if equipped) displays:TRAINING COMPLETE.
10. Turn the ignition off. If two short horn beeps are heard, the reset
procedure was unsuccessful and must be repeated.
If after repeating the procedure and two short beeps are heard when the
ignition is turned to off, seek assistance from your authorized dealer.
11. Set all four tires to the recommended air pressure as indicated on
the Safety Compliance Certification Label or Tire Label located on theB-Pillar or the edge of the driver’s door. See Vehicle loading - with and
without a trailer in this chapter for more information.
SNOW TIRES AND CHAINS
WARNING: Snow tires must be the same size, load index, speed
rating as those originally provided by Ford. Use of any tire or
wheel not recommended by Ford can affect the safety andperformance of your vehicle, which could result in an increased risk ofloss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.Additionally, the use of non-recommended tires and wheels couldcause steering, suspension, axle or transfer case/power transfer unitfailure.
The tires on your vehicle have all-weather treads to provide traction inrain and snow. However, in some climates, you may need to use snowtires and chains. If you need to use chains, it is recommended that steelwheels (of the same size and specifications) be used, as chains may chipaluminum wheels.
Note: The suspension insulation and bumpers will help prevent vehicle
damage. Do not remove these components from your vehicle when using
snow tires and chains.
Note: Do not place chains on the following tires sizes: P265/60R18,
P275/65R18, LT275/70R17, LT275/65R18, LT315/70R17, P275/55R20, and
P275/45R22.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and chains:
•If possible, avoid fully loading your vehicle.
•Use only SAE Class S chains.
•Install chains securely, verifying that the chains do not touch any
wiring, brake lines or fuel lines.
•Drive cautiously. If you hear the chains rub or bang against your
vehicle, stop and retighten the chains. If this does not work, remove
the chains to prevent damage to your vehicle.
•Remove the tire chains when they are no longer needed. Do not use
tire chains on dry roads.
VEHICLE LOADING – WITH AND WITHOUT A TRAILER
This section will guide you in the proper loading of your vehicle and/or
trailer, to keep your loaded vehicle weight within its design ratingcapability, with or without a trailer. Properly loading your vehicle willprovide maximum return of vehicle design performance. Before loadingyour vehicle, familiarize yourself with the following terms for determiningyour vehicle’s weight ratings, with or without a trailer, from the vehicle’sTire Label or Safety Compliance Certification Label:
Base Curb Weight – is the weight of the vehicle including a full tank of
fuel and all standard equipment. It does not include passengers, cargo, or
optional equipment.
Vehicle Curb Weight – is the weight of your new vehicle when you
picked it up from your authorized dealer plus any aftermarket
equipment.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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Payload – is the combined weight of cargo and passengers that the
vehicle is carrying. The maximum payload for your vehicle can be found
on the Tire Label on the B-Pillar or the edge of the driver’s door(vehicles exported outside the US and Canada may not have a TireLabel). Look for “THE COMBINED WEIGHT OF OCCUPANTS AND
CARGO SHOULD NEVER EXCEED XXX kg OR XXX lb.” for
maximum payload. The payload listed on the Tire Label is the maximumpayload for the vehicle as built by the assembly plant. If any aftermarketor authorized-dealer installed equipment has been installed on thevehicle, the weight of the equipment must be subtracted from thepayload listed on the Tire Label in order to determine the new payload.
WARNING: The appropriate loading capacity of your vehicle can
be limited either by volume capacity (how much space is
available) or by payload capacity (how much weight the vehicle shouldcarry). Once you have reached the maximum payload of your vehicle,do not add more cargo, even if there is space available. Overloading orimproperly loading your vehicle can contribute to loss of vehiclecontrol and vehicle rollover.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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Example only:
Cargo Weight – includes all weight added to the Base Curb Weight,
including cargo and optional equipment. When towing, trailer tongue load
or king pin weight is also part of cargo weight.
GAW (Gross Axle Weight) – is the total weight placed on each axle
(front and rear) – including vehicle curb weight and all payload.
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GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) – is the maximum allowable
weight that can be carried by a single axle (front or rear). These
numbers are shown on the Safety Compliance Certification Label
located on the B-Pillar or the edge of the driver’s door. The totalload on each axle must never exceed its GAWR.
Note: For trailer towing information refer to Trailer towing found in
this chapter or the RV and Trailer Towing Guide provided by your
authorized dealer.
GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) – is the Vehicle Curb Weight + cargo +
passengers.
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) – is the maximum allowable
weight of the fully loaded vehicle (including all options, equipment,
passengers and cargo). The GVWR is shown on the Safety
Compliance Certification Label located on the B-Pillar or theedge of the driver’s door. The GVW must never exceed the GVWR.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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•Example only:
WARNING: Exceeding the Safety Compliance Certification Label
vehicle weight rating limits could result in substandard vehicle
handling or performance, engine, transmission and/or structural
damage, serious damage to the vehicle, loss of control and personalinjury.
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GCW (Gross Combined Weight) – is the weight of the loaded vehicle
(GVW) plus the weight of the fully loaded trailer.
GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) – is the maximum allowable
weight of the vehicle and the loaded trailer – including all cargo and
passengers – that the vehicle can handle without risking damage.(Important: The towing vehicle’s braking system is rated for operation atGVWR, not at GCWR.) Separate functional brakes should be used forsafe control of towed vehicles and for trailers where the GCW of thetowing vehicle plus the trailer exceed the GVWR of the towing vehicle.The GCW must never exceed the GCWR.
Maximum Loaded Trailer Weight – is the highest possible weight of a
fully loaded trailer the vehicle can tow. It assumes a vehicle with only
mandatory options, no cargo (internal or external), a tongue load of10–15% (conventional trailer) or king pin weight of 15–25% (fifth wheeltrailer), and driver only (150 lb. [68 kg]). Consult your authorized
dealer (or the RV and Trailer Towing Guide provided by your
authorized dealer) for more detailed information.
Tongue Load or Fifth Wheel King Pin Weight – refers to the amount
of the weight that a trailer pushes down on a trailer hitch.
Examples: For a 5,000 lb. (2,268 kg) conventional trailer, multiply 5,000
by 0.10 and 0.15 to obtain a proper tongue load range of 500 to 750 lb.
(227 to 340 kg). For an 11,500 lb. (5,216 kg) fifth wheel trailer, multiplyby 0.15 and 0.25 to obtain a proper king pin load range of 1,725 to2,875 lb. (782 to 1,304 kg)
WARNING: Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on
the Safety Compliance Certification Label.
WARNING: Do not use replacement tires with lower load
carrying capacities than the original tires because they may
lower the vehicle’s GVWR and GAWR limitations. Replacement tireswith a higher limit than the original tires do not increase the GVWRand GAWR limitations.Tires, Wheels and Loading
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WARNING: Exceeding any vehicle weight rating limitation could
result in serious damage to the vehicle and/or personal injury.
Steps for determining the correct load limit:
1. Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo
should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lb.” on your vehicle’s placard.
2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will
be riding in your vehicle.
3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX
kg or XXX lb.
4. The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage
load capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1,400 lb. andthere will be five 150 lb. passengers in your vehicle, the amount ofavailable cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lb. (1400-750 (5 x 150)= 650 lb.). In metric units (635-340 (5 x 68) = 295 kg.)
5. Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on
the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo andluggage load capacity calculated in Step 4.
6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be
transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how thisreduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle.
The following gives you a few examples on how to calculate the available
amount of cargo and luggage load capacity:
•Another example for your vehicle with 1,400 lb. (635 kg) of cargo and
luggage capacity. You decide to go golfing. Is there enough load
capacity to carry you, 4 of your friends and all the golf bags? You andfour friends average 220 lb. (99 kg) each and the golf bags weighapproximately 30 lb. (13.5 kg) each. The calculation would be: 1400 -(5 x 220) - (5 x 30) = 1400 - 1100 - 150 = 150 lb. Yes, you haveenough load capacity in your vehicle to transport four friends andyour golf bags. In metric units, the calculation would be: 635 kg - (5 x99 kg) - (5 x 13.5 kg) = 635 - 495 - 67.5 = 72.5 kg.
•A final example for your vehicle with 1,400 lb. (635 kg) of cargo and
luggage capacity. You and one of your friends decide to pick upcement from the local home improvement store to finish that patioyou have been planning for the past 2 years. Measuring the inside ofthe vehicle with the rear seat folded down, you have room for12-100 lb. (45 kg) bags of cement. Do you have enough load capacityTires, Wheels and Loading
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to transport the cement to your home? If you and your friend each
weigh 220 lb. (99 kg), the calculation would be: 1400 - (2 x 220) - (12
x 100) = 1400 - 440 - 1200 = - 240 lb. No, you do not have enoughcargo capacity to carry that much weight. In metric units, thecalculation would be: 635 kg - (2 x 99 kg) - (12 x 45 kg) = 635 - 198 -540 = -103 kg. You will need to reduce the load weight by at least240 lb. (104 kg). If you remove 3-100 lb. (45 kg) cement bags, thenthe load calculation would be:
1400 - (2 x 220) - (9 x 100) = 1400 - 440 - 900 = 60 lb. Now you havethe load capacity to transport the cement and your friend home. Inmetric units, the calculation would be: 635 kg - (2 x 99 kg) - (9 x45 kg) = 635 - 198 - 405 = 32 kg.
The above calculations also assume that the loads are positioned in yourvehicle in a manner that does not overload the Front or the Rear GrossAxle Weight Rating specified for your vehicle on the Safety ComplianceCertification Label found on the edge of the driver’s door.
Special loading instructions for owners of pick-up trucks and
utility-type vehicles
WARNING: For important information regarding safe operation
of this type of vehicle, see the Preparing to drive your vehicle
section in the Driving chapter of this owner’s guide.
WARNING: Loaded vehicles may handle differently than
unloaded vehicles. Extra precautions, such as slower speeds and
increased stopping distance, should be taken when driving a heavilyloaded vehicle.
Your vehicle can haul more cargo and people than most passenger cars.Depending upon the type and placement of the load, hauling cargo andpeople may raise the center of gravity of the vehicle.
TRAILER TOWING
Your vehicle may tow a class I, II, III or IV trailer provided the maximum
trailer weight is less than or equal to the maximum trailer weight listedfor your engine and rear axle ratio on the following charts.
If your vehicle is not equipped with a heavy-duty trailer towing package,
the maximum weight your vehicle can tow is limited to 5,000 lb(2,268 kg).Tires, Wheels and Loading
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Note: Do not exceed trailer weight of 5,000 lb (2,268 kg) when towing
with bumper only.
Exceeding the maximum GCWR could result in extensive damage
to your vehicle and personal injury.
Your vehicle’s load capacity is designated by weight, not by volume, so
you cannot necessarily use all available space when loading a vehicle.
Towing a trailer places an additional load on your vehicle’s engine,
transmission, axle, brakes, tires and suspension. Inspect thesecomponents carefully periodically during, and after any towing operation.
Follow these guidelines to ensure safe towing:•45 ft
2(4.18 m2) without the Trailer Tow Package or the Heavy
Payload Package.
•60 ft2(5.52 m2) with the Trailer Tow Package or the Heavy Payload
Package.
Regular Cab 4x2 (126” wheelbase)
Engine Rear axle ratio Maximum
GCWR - lb
(kg)Maximum
Trailer Weight
- lb (kg)
4.6L 2V3.55 10400 (4717) 5400 (2449)
3.73 10900 (4944) 5900 (2676)
Regular Cab 4x4 (126” wheelbase)
Engine Rear axle ratio Maximum
GCWR - lb
(kg)Maximum
Trailer Weight
- lb (kg)
4.6L 2V 3.73 10900 (4944) 5700 (2585)
4.6L 3V3.55 12900 (5851) 7700 (3493)
3.73 13300 (6033) 8000 (3629)
5.4L3.31 13000 (5897) 7700 (3493)
3.55/3.73 13900 (6305) 8600 (3901)Tires, Wheels and Loading
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Regular Cab 4x2 (145” wheelbase)
Engine Rear axle ratio Maximum
GCWR - lb
(kg)Maximum
Trailer Weight
- lb (kg)
4.6L 2V3.55 10600 (4808) 5500 (2495)
3.73 11100 (5035) 6000 (2722)
4.6L 3V3.31 13100 (5942) 8000 (3629)3.55 13600 (6169) 8400 (3810)
5.4L3.15 13200 (5987) 8000 (3629)3.55 15000 (6804) 9800 (4445)
5.4L (Heavy
Duty)3.73 16700 (7575) 11300 (5126)
Regular Cab 4x4 (145” wheelbase)
Engine Rear axle ratio Maximum
GCWR - lb
(kg)Maximum
Trailer Weight
- lb (kg)
4.6L 2V 3.73 11100 (5035) 5800 (2631)
4.6L 3V3.55 13100 (5942) 7700 (3493)
3.73 13600 (6169) 8200 (3719)
5.4L3.31 13200 (5987) 7700 (3493)
3.55/3.73 15000 (6804) 9500 (4309)
5.4L (Heavy
Duty)3.73 17000 (7711) 11300 (5126)
SuperCab 4x2 (145” wheelbase)
Engine Rear axle ratio Maximum
GCWR - lb
(kg)Maximum
Trailer Weight
- lb (kg)
4.6L 2V3.55 10600 (4808) 5300 (2404)3.73 11100 (5035) 5800 (2631)
4.6L 3V3.31 13500 (6123) 8100 (3674)3.55 14900 (6759) 9500 (4309)Tires, Wheels and Loading
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