2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Owner's Manual
Year:
2008
Make:
Ford
Model:
Explorer Sport Trac
Rating:
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
1
Introduction
4
PERCHLORATE MATERIAL
4
CONGRATULATIONS
4
SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION
5
Warning symbols in this guide
5
Warning symbols on your vehicle
5
Protecting the environment
5
BREAKING-IN YOUR VEHICLE
6
SPECIAL NOTICES
6
New Vehicle Limited Warranty
6
Special instructions
6
Service Data Recording
7
Event Data Recording
7
Notice to owners of pickup trucks and utility type vehicles
8
Using your vehicle with a snowplow
8
Using your vehicle as an ambulance
8
Cell phone use
8
Export unique (Non–United States/Canada) vehicle specific information
9
Instrument Cluster
12
WARNING LIGHTS AND CHIMES
12
GAUGES
19
Entertainment Systems
22
AUDIO SYSTEMS
22
Quick start — How to get going
22
Listening to the radio
22
Listening to satellite radio (if equipped)
23
Listening to a CD/MP3 (if equipped)
23
AM/FM Single CD/MP3 satellite compatible sound system (if equipped)
26
Audiophile AM/FM in-dash six CD/MP3 satellite compatible sound system (if equipped)
34
Auxiliary input jack (Line in)
42
USB port (if equipped)
44
GENERAL AUDIO INFORMATION
44
Satellite radio information (if equipped)
47
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT DVD SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
50
Quick start
51
To play a DVD in the DVD system:
51
To play a CD in the DVD system:
52
To play an MP3 disc in the DVD system:
52
To play an auxiliary source through the DVD system
53
To listen to audio over the headphones (Dual play mode):
54
Using the infrared (IR) wireless headphones:
54
Using wired headphones (not included):
54
To adjust display brightness:
55
DVD player controls
55
Remote control
58
Battery replacement
60
Headphones
61
Wireless headphones
61
Wired headphones
63
Operation
63
Single play/Dual play
63
Operation with an aftermarket audio system (Headphone only mode)
64
Menu mode
65
Angle mode
65
Aspect ratio
66
Language
66
Subtitles
67
Audio CDs
67
Playing MP3 discs
68
MP3 disc quality factors
68
CD, MP3 and CD player care
69
Playing a DVD
70
Slow play
70
Frame by frame
71
Headphone/auxiliary jacks
71
Audio displays
72
Audio interaction
72
Parental control for the DVD system
72
General information
73
Safety information
74
Federal Communication Commission (FCC) Compliance
75
Care and service of the DVD player
76
Environmental extremes
76
Temperature extremes
76
Humidity and moisture condensation
76
Foreign substances
76
Cleaning the liquid crystal display (LCD) flip-down screen
76
Cleaning DVD and CD discs
1
Compatibility with aftermarket audio systems (headphone only mode)
1
NAVIGATION SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
1
SYNC™ SYSTEM (LATE AVAILABILITY — IF EQUIPPED)
1
Climate Controls
78
MANUAL HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
78
Operating tips
78
DUAL AUTOMATIC TEMPERATURE CONTROL (DATC) SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
80
Operating tips
82
Heated Windshield Control (if equipped)
83
Lights
85
HEADLAMP CONTROL
85
Autolamp Control (if equipped)
85
Fog lamp control
85
Daytime running lamps (DRL) (if equipped)
86
High beams
86
Flash to pass
86
PANEL DIMMER CONTROL
87
AIMING THE HEADLAMPS
87
Headlamp aim adjustment
87
TURN SIGNAL CONTROL
89
INTERIOR LAMPS
89
Map lamps
89
Cargo/reading lamps
89
BULB REPLACEMENT
89
Headlamp Condensation
89
Replacing exterior bulbs
89
Replacing the interior bulbs
90
Using the right bulbs
90
Replacing headlamp bulbs
91
Replacing front parking lamp/turn signal/sidemarker bulbs
92
Replacing tail/brake/turn/backup lamp bulbs
92
Replacing fog lamp bulbs
93
Replacing license plate lamp bulbs
93
Replacing high-mount brake and cargo lamp bulbs
94
Driver Controls
95
MULTI-FUNCTION LEVER
95
Windshield wiper features (if equipped with Autolamp feature)
95
TILT STEERING COLUMN
96
ILLUMINATED VISOR MIRROR
96
OVERHEAD CONSOLE
97
Storage compartment
97
Installing a garage door opener (if equipped)
98
AUXILIARY POWER POINTS (12VDC)
98
Truck bed auxiliary power point
100
CENTER CONSOLE
100
POWER WINDOWS
100
One touch up or down (Driver’s window only)
101
Bounce-Back (Driver’s window only)
102
Security Override
102
Window lock
102
Accessory delay
102
Power Down Back Window
103
INTERIOR MIRROR
104
Automatic dimming interior rear view mirror (if equipped)
104
EXTERIOR MIRRORS
1
Power side view mirrors
1
Fold-away mirrors
106
Heated outside mirrors (if equipped)
106
POWER ADJUSTABLE FOOT PEDALS (IF EQUIPPED)
106
SPEED CONTROL
107
Setting speed control
107
Resuming a set speed
108
Increasing speed while using speed control
108
Reducing speed while using speed control
108
Turning off speed control
1
STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS
1
Audio control features
1
MOON ROOF (IF EQUIPPED)
112
STANDARD MESSAGE CENTER (IF EQUIPPED)
113
Selectable features
113
Info menu
113
Odometer/Trip odometer
113
Distance to empty (DTE)
114
Average fuel economy (AFE)
114
Setup menu
115
System check
115
Units (English/Metric)
116
Language
116
Autolamp
116
Autolock
117
Autounlock
117
Reverse Sensing System (Park Aid) (if equipped)
117
Oil Life Reset and Start Value
118
Compass display (if equipped)
118
Compass zone adjustment (if equipped)
119
Compass calibration adjustment
120
System warnings
120
OPTIONAL MESSAGE CENTER (IF EQUIPPED)
124
Selectable features
124
Reset
124
Info menu
125
Trip odometer
125
Distance to empty (DTE)
125
Average fuel economy (AFE)
126
Instantaneous fuel economy
126
Fuel Used
127
Trip elapsed drive time
127
Blank display
127
Setup menu
127
System check
128
Units (English/Metric)
128
Language
128
Autolamp
129
Autolock
129
Autounlock
130
Reverse Sensing System (Park Aid) (if equipped)
130
Compass display (if equipped)
130
Compass zone adjustment (if equipped)
131
Compass calibration adjustment (if equipped)
132
Oil life Setup and Start Value
133
System warnings
133
POSITIVE RETENTION FLOOR MAT
137
TAILGATE LOCK
137
Tailgate removal
137
Exterior tiedown hooks
138
CARGO CAGE (IF EQUIPPED)
139
TONNEAU COVER (IF EQUIPPED)
140
Interior tonneau cover release
142
CARGO AREA FEATURES
143
Cargo management system
143
Pickup box storage compartment
143
Interior tiedown hooks
144
LUGGAGE RACK
144
Locks and Security
146
KEYS
146
POWER DOOR LOCKS
146
Smart unlocking feature
146
Autolock
146
Deactivating/activating autolock
147
Power door unlock/lock procedure
147
Keyless entry key pad procedure
147
Message center procedure
148
Autounlock
148
Deactivating/activating autounlock
148
Power door unlock/lock procedure
149
Keyless entry key pad procedure
149
Message center procedure
149
Power door lock/unlock inhibit feature (if equipped)
150
CHILDPROOF DOOR LOCKS
151
REMOTE ENTRY SYSTEM
151
Two step door unlocking
152
One step door unlocking
152
Switching from two step to one step door unlocking
152
Locking the doors
153
Car finder
153
Sounding a panic alarm
153
Replacing the battery
153
Replacing lost remote entry transmitters
154
How to reprogram your remote entry transmitters
154
Illuminated entry
155
KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
156
Programming a personal entry code
156
Erasing personal code
157
Anti-scan feature
157
Unlocking and locking the doors using keyless entry
157
SECURILOCK™ PASSIVE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM
158
Anti-theft indicator
158
Automatic arming
159
Automatic disarming
159
Replacement keys
159
Programming spare keys
159
Seating and Safety Restraints
161
SEATING
161
Adjustable head restraints
161
Adjusting the front manual seat (if equipped)
162
Using the manual lumbar support (if equipped)
163
Adjusting the front power seat (if equipped)
163
Using the power lumbar support (if equipped)
165
Heated seats (if equipped)
165
REAR SEATS
166
Folding down the 2nd row 60/40 seats
166
SAFETY RESTRAINTS
168
Personal Safety System™
168
How does the Personal Safety System™ work?
168
Driver and passenger dual-stage airbag supplemental restraints
169
Front crash severity sensor
169
Driver’s seat position sensor
169
Front passenger sensing system
169
Front safety belt usage sensors
170
Front safety belt pretensioners
170
Front safety belt energy management retractors
170
Determining if the Personal Safety System™ is operational
170
Safety restraints precautions
171
Energy Management Feature
172
Combination lap and shoulder belts
173
Vehicle sensitive mode
173
Automatic locking mode
174
When to use the automatic locking mode
174
How to use the automatic locking mode
174
How to disengage the automatic locking mode
175
Safety belt pretensioner
175
Front safety belt height adjustment
176
Second row comfort guide
176
Safety belt extension assembly
177
Safety belt warning light and indicator chime
178
Conditions of operation
178
Belt-Minder
178
One time disable
181
Deactivating/activating the Belt-Minder feature
181
Safety belt maintenance
183
AIRBAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)
183
Important SRS precautions
184
Children and airbags
185
How does the airbag supplemental restraint system work?
186
Front passenger sensing system
187
Determining if the system is operational
192
Seat-mounted side airbag system
192
How does the side airbag system work?
193
Safety Canopy™ system
194
How does the Safety Canopy™ system work?
195
Determining if the system is operational
197
Disposal of airbags and airbag equipped vehicles (including pretensioners)
197
SAFETY RESTRAINTS FOR CHILDREN
198
Important child restraint precautions
198
Children and safety belts
198
Child booster seats
199
When children should use booster seats
199
Types of booster seats
200
The importance of shoulder belts
202
SAFETY SEATS FOR CHILDREN
203
Child and infant or child safety seats
203
Installing child safety seats with combination lap and shoulder belts
204
Attaching child safety seats with tether straps
207
Attaching safety seats with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) attachments for child seat anchors
209
Tires, Wheels and Loading
212
NOTICE TO UTILITY VEHICLE AND TRUCK OWNERS
212
VEHICLE CHARACTERISTICS
212
4WD and AWD Systems (if equipped)
212
How your vehicle differs from other vehicles
213
INFORMATION ABOUT UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADING
214
Treadwear
215
Traction AA A B C
215
Temperature A B C
215
TIRES
216
Glossary of tire terminology
216
INFLATING YOUR TIRES
217
TIRE CARE
219
Inspecting your tires
219
Tire wear
219
Damage
219
U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN)
220
Tire replacement requirements
220
Safety practices
222
Highway hazards
222
Tire and wheel alignment
222
Tire rotation
223
INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE TIRE SIDEWALL
224
Information on “P” type tires
224
Additional information contained on the tire sidewall for “LT” type tires
227
Information on “T” type tires
228
Location of the tire label
228
TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS)
229
Understanding your Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
231
When your temporary spare tire is installed
231
When you believe your system is not operating properly
231
When inflating your tires
233
How temperature affects your tire pressure
233
SNOW TIRES AND CHAINS
234
VEHICLE LOADING – WITH AND WITHOUT A TRAILER
234
Special loading instructions for owners of pickup trucks and utility-type vehicles
240
Calculating the load your vehicle can carry/tow
240
TRAILER TOWING
241
Preparing to tow
243
Hitches
243
Safety chains
244
Trailer brakes
244
Trailer lamps
244
Driving while you tow
245
Servicing after towing
245
Trailer towing tips
245
Launching or retrieving a boat
246
Camper bodies
246
RECREATIONAL TOWING (ALL WHEELS ON THE GROUND)
247
Driving
248
STARTING
248
Positions of the ignition
248
Preparing to start your vehicle
248
Important safety precautions
249
Starting the engine
251
Guarding against exhaust fumes
251
Important ventilating information
251
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (IF EQUIPPED)
252
BRAKES
253
Four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS)
254
Using ABS
254
ABS warning lamp
254
Parking brake
255
ADVANCETRAC WITH ROLL STABILITY CONTROL™ (RSC) STABILITY ENHANCEMENT SYSTEM
256
STEERING
260
PREPARING TO DRIVE
260
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OPERATION
261
Brake-shift interlock
261
Driving with a 5–speed automatic transmission (if equipped)
263
Driving with a 6–speed automatic transmission (if equipped)
266
If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow
269
REVERSE SENSING SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
269
FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE (4WD) OPERATION (IF EQUIPPED)
271
System indicator lights
271
Using the Control Trac 4WD system
272
Shifting between 4X4 AUTO (4WD Auto) and 4X4 HIGH (4WD High)
272
Shifting to/from 4X4 LOW (4WD Low)
272
Driving off-road with truck and utility vehicles
272
How your vehicle differs from other vehicles
273
Basic operating principles
273
If your vehicle goes off the edge of the pavement
273
If your vehicle gets stuck
274
Emergency maneuvers
274
Parking
275
4WD Systems
275
Normal characteristics
276
Sand
276
Mud and water
276
Driving on hilly or sloping terrain
277
Driving on snow and ice
278
Maintenance and Modifications
279
DRIVING THROUGH WATER
279
Roadside Emergencies
280
ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
280
Getting roadside assistance
280
Using roadside assistance
281
Roadside coverage beyond basic warranty
281
HAZARD FLASHER CONTROL
281
FUEL PUMP SHUT-OFF SWITCH
282
FUSES AND RELAYS
283
Fuses
283
Standard fuse amperage rating and color
283
Passenger compartment fuse panel
284
Power distribution box
286
CHANGING THE TIRES
290
Dissimilar spare tire/wheel information
290
Stopping and securing the vehicle
292
Location of the spare tire and tools
292
Removing the jack and tools
293
Removing the spare tire
293
Changing the spare tire
294
Stowing the flat/spare tire
297
Stowing the jack and tools
298
WHEEL LUG NUT TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
298
JUMP STARTING
299
Preparing your vehicle
299
Connecting the jumper cables
300
Jump starting
302
Removing the jumper cables
302
WRECKER TOWING
304
Customer Assistance
305
GETTING THE SERVICES YOU NEED
305
At home
305
Away from home
305
Additional Assistance
306
IN CALIFORNIA (U.S. ONLY)
307
THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU (BBB) AUTO LINE PROGRAM (U.S. ONLY)
308
UTILIZING THE MEDIATION/ARBITRATION PROGRAM (CANADA ONLY)
309
FORD EXTENDED SERVICE PLAN
309
GETTING ASSISTANCE OUTSIDE THE U.S. AND CANADA
310
ORDERING ADDITIONAL OWNER’S LITERATURE
311
Obtaining a French owner’s guide
311
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS (U.S. ONLY)
311
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS (CANADA ONLY)
312
Cleaning
313
WASHING THE EXTERIOR
313
WAXING
314
PAINT CHIPS
314
ALUMINUM WHEELS AND WHEEL COVERS
314
ENGINE
315
4.0L SOHC V6 ENGINE
315
4.6L V8 ENGINE
316
PLASTIC (NON-PAINTED) EXTERIOR PARTS
316
WINDOWS AND WIPER BLADES
316
INSTRUMENT PANEL/INTERIOR TRIM AND CLUSTER LENS
317
INTERIOR
318
LEATHER SEATS (IF EQUIPPED)
319
UNDERBODY
319
FORD AND LINCOLN MERCURY CAR CARE PRODUCTS
319
Maintenance and Specifications
321
SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS
321
PRECAUTIONS WHEN SERVICING YOUR VEHICLE
321
Working with the engine off
321
Working with the engine on
321
OPENING THE HOOD
322
IDENTIFYING COMPONENTS IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT
323
4.0L SOHC V6 engine
323
4.6L V8 engine
324
WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID
325
CHANGING THE WIPER BLADES
326
ENGINE OIL
326
Checking the engine oil
326
Adding engine oil
328
Engine Oil Recommendations
329
Use SAE 5W-30 engine oil
329
Use SAE 5W-20 engine oil
330
BATTERY
331
ENGINE COOLANT
333
Checking engine coolant
333
Adding engine coolant
335
Recycled engine coolant
337
Coolant refill capacity
337
Severe climates
337
What you should know about fail-safe cooling (4.6L V8 engine only)
338
Fail-safe cooling and engine oil overheat mode (4.6L V8 only)
338
When fail-safe cooling mode is activated
339
FUEL FILTER
339
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT AUTOMOTIVE FUELS
340
Important safety precautions
340
Refueling
341
Fuel Filler Cap
342
Choosing the right fuel
343
Octane recommendations
343
Fuel quality
344
Cleaner air
344
Running out of fuel
344
ESSENTIALS OF GOOD FUEL ECONOMY
345
Measuring techniques
345
Filling the tank
345
Calculating fuel economy
346
Driving style — good driving and fuel economy habits
346
Habits
346
Maintenance
347
Conditions
347
EPA window sticker
347
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
348
On board diagnostics (OBD-II)
349
Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing
350
POWER STEERING FLUID
351
BRAKE FLUID
351
TRANSMISSION FLUID
351
Checking automatic transmission fluid
351
TRANSFER CASE FLUID (IF EQUIPPED)
352
DRIVELINE UNIVERSAL JOINT AND SLIP YOKE
352
AIR FILTER
353
Changing the air filter element
353
MOTORCRAFT PART NUMBERS
354
MAINTENANCE PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS AND CAPACITIES
355
ENGINE DATA
358
Engine drivebelt routing
358
IDENTIFYING YOUR VEHICLE
359
Safety Compliance Certification Label
359
Vehicle identification number (VIN)
359
TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE CODE DESIGNATIONS
360
Accessories
361
GENUINE FORD ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR VEHICLE
361
Exterior style
361
Interior style
361
Lifestyle
361
Peace of mind
362
Index
363
2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Overview
Introduction
The 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a potent blend of rugged versatility and everyday utility, designed for those who crave adventure without sacrificing comfort. As a midsize SUV with a pickup truck’s versatility, it offers ample space for both passengers and cargo, making it an ideal choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With a refreshed style that exudes confidence and performance, the Sport Trac remains a compelling option in an increasingly competitive market.
Powertrains
The 2008 Explorer Sport Trac is equipped with a robust powertrain lineup that guarantees a spirited driving experience. Base models come with a 4.0-liter V6 engine, delivering 210 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque, while an optional 4.6-liter V8 engine ups the ante with 292 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a smooth-shifting five-speed automatic transmission, and buyers have the option of two-wheel drive or a capable four-wheel-drive system, ensuring traction in various conditions.
Trims
Features
Standard features on the 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac include air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a CD player. Higher trims offer additional options such as a navigation system, a rearview camera, and premium audio. The rear bed is fitted with a liner and cargo tie-downs for added utility, making it a practical choice for hauling gear.
Owner's Manual
The owner's manual for the 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac provides comprehensive information on vehicle operation, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting tips, and warranty details. It ensures that owners can maximize the performance and longevity of their SUV, offering insight into everything from fluid checks to recommended service intervals.
User manual download
The Ford Explorer Sport Trac owner manual for the 2008 model year is to be found in PDF downloadable format on this page. The owner manual for the model year 2008 is free and in English, but the repair manuals are usually not easy to get and may cost more.
Posted by, John Mana
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