2011 Ford Explorer Owner's Manual
Year:
2011
Make:
Ford
Model:
Explorer
Rating:
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
1
Introduction
4
Congratulations
4
Safety and Environment Protection
4
Warning symbols in this guide
4
Warning symbols on your vehicle
5
Protecting the environment
5
Perchlorate material
5
Breaking-in your vehicle
5
Special Notices
6
New Vehicle Limited Warranty
6
Special instructions
6
Notice to owners of pickup trucks and utility type vehicles
6
Using your vehicle with a snowplow
6
Using your vehicle as an ambulance
6
Data Recording
7
Service Data Recording
7
Event Data Recording
7
Cell phone use
9
Export unique (Non–United States/Canada) vehicle specific information
9
Instrument Cluster
12
Warning lights and chimes
12
Gauges
19
Base message center (if equipped)
22
Main menu
23
System warnings and status messages
26
Optional message center (if equipped)
26
Main menu
27
SelectShift Automatic™ transmission (SST)
30
Settings/Vehicle Settings
34
Information
36
System warnings and status messages
37
System warnings and status messages
37
Entertainment Systems
49
MyFord™ system (if equipped)
49
Radio
50
SIRIUS satellite radio (if equipped)
52
Satellite radio information (if activated)
54
Playing a disc
56
Auxiliary input jack (line in)
58
Phone
58
MyFord Touch™ (if equipped)
59
Climate Controls
60
Single zone manual system with rear climate controls (if equipped)
60
Operating tips
62
Automatic Temperature Control Systems
63
Dual Automatic Temperature Control (DATC) Sony system (if equipped)
63
Dual Automatic Temperature Control (DATC) system with MyTemp (if equipped)
65
Operating tips
67
Touchscreen features (if equipped)
68
Rear controls
70
Climate control voice commands (if equipped)
70
Auxiliary system
71
Rear window defroster
72
Remote start climate operation (if equipped)
72
Cabin air filter
73
Lights
74
Headlamp Control
74
Autolamp control (if equipped)
74
Autolamp delay system (if equipped)
74
Fog lamp control
75
High beams
75
Flash-to-pass
76
Daytime running lamps (DRL) (if equipped)
76
PANEL DIMMER CONTROL
76
Aiming the headlamps
77
Headlamp aim adjustment
77
TURN SIGNAL CONTROL
79
Interior lamps
80
Front row map lamps (if equipped)
80
Second row dome/map lamps (if equipped)
80
Second row dome/courtesy lamps (if equipped)
80
Third row cargo lamp
81
Bulb Replacement
81
Lamp assembly condensation
81
Using the right bulbs
82
Replacing interior bulbs
83
Replacing exterior bulbs
83
Replacing headlamp bulbs
83
Replacing HID headlamp bulbs (if equipped)
84
Replacing front parking lamp/turn signal bulbs
84
Replacing sidemarker bulbs
85
Replacing turn/backup lamp bulbs
86
Replacing tail/brake lamp bulbs
87
Replacing fog lamp bulbs
87
Replacing license plate lamp bulb
88
Replacing high-mount brake lamp bulb
88
Driver Controls
89
Windshield Wipers
89
Windshield wiper rainlamp feature (if equipped with autolamp)
90
Rear window wiper/washer controls
90
Tilt/Telescope Steering Wheel
91
Illuminated visor mirror (if equipped)
92
Overhead console
92
Storage compartment
92
Center console
93
Rear center console features (if equipped)
93
Auxiliary power points (12V DC)
93
Power point (110V AC) (if equipped)
94
Power Windows
96
One-touch down
96
One-touch up or down (front windows) (if equipped)
96
Bounce-back
96
Security override
97
Window lock
97
Accessory delay
97
Interior mirror
97
Automatic dimming interior rear view mirror (if equipped)
97
Exterior Mirrors
98
Power side view mirrors
98
Heated outside mirrors (if equipped)
99
Fold-away mirrors
99
Signal indicator mirrors (if equipped)
100
Blind spot mirrors (if equipped)
100
Power Adjustable Foot Pedals (if equipped)
100
Speed control (if equipped)
100
Using speed control
101
Setting speed control
101
Disengaging speed control
101
Resuming a set speed
101
Increasing speed while using speed control
102
Reducing speed while using speed control
102
Turning off speed control
102
ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL (ACC) (IF EQUIPPED)
102
Using adaptive cruise control
103
Setting adaptive cruise control
104
Setting the gap distance
105
Disengaging adaptive cruise control
106
Overriding adaptive cruise control
106
Changing the set speed
106
Resuming the set speed
106
Low speed automatic cancellation
107
Hilly condition usage
107
Turning off cruise control
107
Detection issues
107
ACC Not Available
108
Blocked sensor
109
Switching to normal cruise control
110
STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS
110
Audio control features
110
Cluster display control features
111
Dual panel moon roof and power sunscreen (if equipped)
112
Universal garage door opener (if equipped)
113
Car2U Home Automation System (if equipped)
113
Types of garage door openers (rolling code and fixed code)
114
Rolling code programming
115
Fixed code programming
116
Erasing the Car2U Home Automation System buttons
118
FCC and RSS-210 Industry Canada Compliance
119
Positive Retention Floor Mat
119
Cargo Area Features
120
Cargo net (if equipped)
120
Utility hook
121
Manual liftgate (if equipped)
121
Power liftgate (if equipped)
122
Roof Rack System (if equipped)
126
Locks and Security
128
Keys
128
Intelligent Access Key (IA key) (if equipped)
128
MyKey
129
Power door locks
135
Smart unlocks for integrated keyhead transmitter (IKT)
135
Smart unlocks for intelligent access keys (IA key) (if equipped)
135
Autolock feature (if enabled)
136
Deactivating/activating autolock feature
136
Power door lock switch autolock enable/disable procedure
137
Autounlock feature (if enabled)
137
Deactivating/activating autounlock feature
138
Power door lock switch autounlock enable/disable procedure
138
Childproof door locks
139
Remote entry system
139
Intelligent access (if equipped)
140
Unlocking the doors/two stage unlock
141
Locking the doors
141
Car finder
142
Sounding a panic alarm
142
Opening the power liftgate (if equipped)
142
Memory feature (if equipped)
143
Programming the memory feature to the transmitter
143
Deprogramming the memory feature from the transmitter
143
Replacing the battery
144
Replacing lost intelligent access keys (IA keys)
145
How to reprogram your intelligent access keys (IA keys)
145
Illuminated entry
145
Illuminated exit
146
Battery saver
146
Accessory mode battery saver for intelligent access keys with push button start (if equipped)
146
Remote start (if equipped)
146
SecuriCode™ keyless entry system (if equipped)
149
Programming a personal entry code and keypad association to memory feature
149
Erasing personal code
150
Anti-scan feature
150
Unlocking and locking the doors using keyless entry
150
Securilock passive anti-theft system
151
Automatic arming
151
Automatic disarming
151
Replacement of integrated keyhead transmitters (IKT) or intelligent access keys
152
Programming spare integrated keyhead transmitter (IKT) keys
152
Programming spare intelligent access keys (if equipped)
154
Perimeter alarm system (if equipped)
155
Arming the system
155
Seating and Safety Restraints
157
Front seats
157
Adjustable head restraints
157
Adjusting the front manual seat (if equipped)
159
Using the manual lumbar support (if equipped)
160
Adjusting the front power seat (if equipped)
160
Using the power lumbar support (if equipped)
162
Dual setting heated seats (if equipped)
162
Three-position heated and cooled seats (if equipped)
163
Climate controlled seats air filter replacement
164
Memory feature (if equipped)
166
Easy entry/exit feature (if equipped)
167
Rear seats
167
Second and third row head restraints
167
Adjusting second row bucket and bench seat back
169
Adjusting second row seats (six–passenger vehicles only)
169
Accessing the third row seats
169
2nd row power fold and tumble seat (six–passenger vehicles only)
172
Exiting the third row seat
172
Stowing the third row seat (manual seat)
174
Unstowing the third row seat
175
PowerFold third-row seat (if equipped)
176
Personal Safety System™
178
How does the Personal Safety System™ work?
179
Driver and passenger dual-stage airbag supplemental restraints
179
Front crash severity sensor
179
Driver’s seat position sensor
179
Front passenger sensing system
180
Front safety belt usage sensors
180
Front safety belt pretensioners
181
Front safety belt energy management retractors
181
Determining if the Personal Safety System is operational
181
Safety Belt System
182
Safety restraints precautions
182
Combination lap and shoulder belts (standard belts shown, 2nd row inflatable belts similar-if equipped)
183
Restraint of pregnant women
184
Safety belt locking modes
184
Rear Inflatable Safety Belt (if equipped)
186
How does the rear inflatable safety belt system work?
187
Energy management feature — front outboard
188
Safety belt pretensioner
188
Safety belt extension assembly
189
Safety belt height adjustment
189
Safety belt warning light and indicator chime
190
Conditions of operation
190
Belt-Minder
190
Deactivating/activating the Belt-Minder feature
193
AIRBAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)
195
Important SRS precautions
195
Children and airbags
197
How does the airbag supplemental restraint system work?
197
Front passenger sensing system
199
Determining if the system is operational
203
Seat-mounted side airbag system
204
How does the side airbag system work?
204
Safety Canopy System
206
How does the Safety Canopy System work?
207
Determining if the system is operational
208
SOS Post-Crash Alert System™
209
Disposal of airbags and airbag equipped vehicles (including pretensioners and inflatable safety belts)
209
Safety restraints for children
209
Important child restraint precautions
210
Recommendations for attaching child safety restraints for children
212
Transporting children
213
Safety seats for children
214
Infant and/or toddler seats
214
Installing child safety seats with combination lap and shoulder belts
215
Attaching child safety seats with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) attachments
220
Use of inboard lower anchors from the outboard seating positions (center seating use)
221
Combining safety belt and LATCH lower anchors for attaching child safety seats
222
Attaching child safety seats with tether straps
222
Child booster seats
225
When children should use booster seats
225
Types of booster seats
226
The importance of shoulder belts
227
Child restraint and safety belt maintenance
228
Tires, Wheels and Loading
229
Notice to utility vehicle and truck owners
229
Vehicle characteristics
230
Four-wheel drive (4WD) system (if equipped)
230
How your vehicle differs from other vehicles
231
Information about uniform tire quality grading
232
Treadwear
232
Traction AA A B C
232
Temperature A B C
233
Tires
233
Glossary of tire terminology
233
Inflating your tires
234
Tire care
236
Inspecting your tires and wheel valve stems
236
Tire wear
237
Damage
237
U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN)
238
Tire replacement requirements
238
Safety practices
240
Highway hazards
240
Tire and wheel alignment
240
Tire rotation
241
Information contained on the tire sidewall
242
Information on “P” type tires
242
Additional information contained on the tire sidewall for “LT” type tires
245
Information on “T” type tires
246
Location of the tire label
246
Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
247
Changing tires with a TPMS
248
Understanding your tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
248
When your temporary spare tire is installed
248
When you believe your system is not operating properly
249
When inflating your tires
250
How temperature affects your tire pressure
250
Snow tires and cables
251
Vehicle loading – with and without a trailer
252
Special loading instructions for owners of pick-up trucks and utility-type vehicles
258
Trailer towing
259
Preparing to tow
260
Hitches
260
Weight-distributing hitch
260
Safety chains
261
Trailer brakes
261
Trailer lamps
262
Driving while you tow
262
Trailer towing tips
262
Recreational towing
263
Driving
264
Starting
264
Positions of the ignition (if equipped)
264
Preparing to start your vehicle
264
Important safety precautions
265
Starting the engine
266
Push button start system (if equipped)
267
Guarding against exhaust fumes
269
Important ventilating information
269
Engine block heater (if equipped)
270
Brakes
271
Four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS)
271
Using ABS
272
Brake assist
272
ABS warning lamp
272
Parking brake
273
AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control™ (RSC) stability enhancement system
274
Hill descent control™ (if equipped)
279
Steering
281
Preparing to drive
282
Brake-shift interlock
283
Automatic transmission operation
284
Automatic transmission adaptive learning
284
Understanding the gearshift positions of the 6–speed automatic transmission
285
Understanding your SelectShift Automatic™ Transmission (SST)
288
Hill start assist (HSA)
289
If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow
290
Reverse sensing system (if equipped)
290
Rearview camera system (if equipped)
292
Collision warning system (if equipped)
296
Active park assist (APA) (if equipped)
299
Blind spot mirrors (if equipped)
304
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross Traffic Alert (CTA) (if equipped)
305
Four Wheel Drive (4WD) system (if equipped)
311
Driving off-road with truck and utility vehicles
311
How your vehicle differs from other vehicles
311
Basic operating principles
312
If your vehicle goes off the edge of the pavement
312
If your vehicle gets stuck
313
Emergency maneuvers
313
Sand
314
Mud and water
314
Driving on hilly or sloping terrain
315
Driving on snow and ice
316
Maintenance and modifications
317
Terrain management (if equipped)
318
Driving through water
319
Roadside Emergencies
320
Roadside Assistance
320
Vehicles sold in the U.S. : Getting roadside assistance
320
Vehicles sold in the U.S. : Using roadside assistance
321
Vehicles sold in Canada : Getting roadside assistance
321
Vehicles sold in Canada : Using roadside assistance
321
Hazard flasher control
321
Fuel Pump Shut-off
322
Fuses and relays
322
Fuses
322
Standard fuse amperage rating and color
323
Passenger compartment fuse panel
323
Power distribution box
327
Changing the tires
332
Dissimilar spare tire/wheel information
332
Stopping and securing the vehicle
334
Removing the spare tire and jack
335
Tire change procedure
337
Stowing the mini-spare and jack
338
Stowing the flat tire
339
Temporary Mobility Kit (if equipped)
340
General information
341
Tips for use of the temporary mobility kit
342
What to do when a tire is punctured
343
First stage: Reinflating the tire with sealing compound and air
343
Second stage: Checking tire pressure
345
What to do after the tire has been sealed
346
Wheel lug nut torque specifications
348
Running out of fuel
349
Jump starting
350
Preparing your vehicle
350
Connecting the jumper cables
351
Jump starting
352
Removing the jumper cables
352
Wrecker towing
353
Emergency towing
354
Customer Assistance
355
GETTING THE SERVICES YOU NEED
355
Away from home
355
Additional assistance
356
In California (U.S. only)
357
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) Auto Line Program (U.S. only)
358
Utilizing The Mediation/Arbitration Program (Canada only)
359
GETTING ASSISTANCE OUTSIDE THE U.S. AND CANADA
359
ORDERING ADDITIONAL OWNER’S LITERATURE
361
Obtaining a French Owner’s Guide
361
Reporting safety defects (U.S. only)
362
Reporting safety defects (Canada only)
362
Cleaning
363
Washing the exterior
363
Waxing
364
Paint chips
364
Aluminum wheels and wheel covers
364
Engine
364
Plastic (non-painted) exterior parts
365
Windows and wiper blades
365
Instrument panel/Interior trim and cluster lens
366
Interior
367
Leather seats (if equipped)
368
Underbody
368
Ford and Lincoln car care products
369
Maintenance and Specifications
370
Service recommendations
370
Precautions when servicing your vehicle
370
Working with the engine off
370
Working with the engine on
370
Opening the hood
371
Identifying components in the engine compartment
372
3.5L V6 engine
372
Windshield washer fluid
373
Checking and adding washer fluid for the liftgate
373
Changing the wiper blades
374
Changing the rear window wiper blade
374
Engine oil
375
Checking the engine oil
375
Adding engine oil
376
Engine oil and filter recommendations
376
Use SAE 5W-20 engine oil
376
Battery
377
Battery management system
379
Engine coolant
380
Checking engine coolant
380
Adding engine coolant
381
Recycled engine coolant
383
Coolant refill capacity
383
Severe climates
384
Engine fluid temperature management (if equipped)
384
What you should know about fail-safe cooling
386
How fail-safe cooling works
386
When fail-safe mode is activated
386
Fuel Filter
387
What you should know about automotive fuels
387
Important safety precautions
387
Refueling
389
Easy Fuel “no cap” fuel system
389
Choosing the right fuel
390
Octane recommendations
391
Fuel quality
391
Cleaner air
391
Running out of fuel
391
Refilling with a portable fuel container
392
Essentials of good fuel economy
393
Measuring techniques
393
Filling the tank
393
Calculating fuel economy
394
Driving style — good driving and fuel economy habits
394
Habits
394
Maintenance
395
Conditions
395
Emission control system
396
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II)
397
Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing
398
Brake fluid
399
Transmission fluid
399
Checking automatic transmission fluid
399
Low fluid level
400
Correct fluid level
400
High fluid level
400
Adjusting automatic transmission fluid levels
400
Air filter
401
Changing the air filter element
401
Vehicle storage
402
Motorcraft part numbers
404
Maintenance product specifications and capacities
405
Engine data
408
Engine drivebelt routing
408
Identifying your vehicle
408
Safety Compliance Certification Label
408
Vehicle identification number (VIN)
409
Transmission code designations
410
Accessories
411
Ford Custom Accessories for your vehicle
411
Exterior style
411
Interior style
411
Lifestyle
411
Peace of mind
412
Ford Extended Service Plan
413
Ford ESP Extended Service Plans (U.S. Only)
413
Ford ESP Extended Service Plans (Canada Only)
416
Scheduled Maintenance
417
General maintenance information
417
Why maintain your vehicle?
417
Protecting your investment
417
Oils, fluids and flushing
418
Genuine Ford parts and service
419
Convenience
419
Factory-trained technicians
419
Genuine Ford and Motorcraft replacement parts
419
Value shopping for your vehicle’s maintenance needs
419
Owner checks and services
419
Multi-point inspection
421
Normal scheduled maintenance and log
423
Maintenance schedule log
426
Special operating conditions
429
Special operating condition log
432
Exceptions
434
Engine coolant change record
435
Engine coolant change log
435
Index
436
2011 Ford Explorer Overview
Introduction
The 2011 Ford Explorer redefines the modern SUV, blending rugged charisma with refined comfort. This model, a part of Ford's celebrated lineup, boasts a more car-like ride and advanced technology, catering to families and adventure-seekers alike. With a striking exterior design and spacious interior, the 2011 Explorer stands out on the road as a versatile vehicle for everyday use and weekend getaways.
Powertrains
The 2011 Ford Explorer offers two robust powertrains to suit differing needs. The standard engine is a 3.5-liter V6, delivering 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque, providing a smooth balance of performance and fuel efficiency. For those desiring enhanced capability, an optional 2.5-liter I4 turbocharged EcoBoost engine is available, delivering similar power while also improving gas mileage and reducing emissions. Coupled with Ford's six-speed automatic transmission, the Explorer ensures responsive handling and a pleasant driving experience.
Trims
Available in various trims, including XLS, XLT, and Limited, the 2011 Explorer caters to diverse tastes and budgets. The XLS serves as an entry-level option with essential features, while the XLT adds modern conveniences, such as a premium audio system, and enhanced interior materials. The Limited trim offers a luxury experience with premium leather seating, advanced infotainment options, and additional safety features, ensuring every ride is as sophisticated as it is functional.
Features
Equipped with the latest technology, the 2011 Ford Explorer comes standard with features such as Bluetooth connectivity, a touchscreen interface, and the innovative MyFord Touch system for easy access to navigation and entertainment. Advanced safety systems, including front and side airbags, stability control, and rear parking sensors, make for a secure driving experience for passengers of all ages.
Owners Manual
The 2011 Ford Explorer's owner's manual serves as an essential guide for new owners, providing comprehensive information on vehicle operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. It includes insights into various features, safety recommendations, and scheduled service intervals, ensuring that drivers can make the most of their SUVs while keeping them in peak condition.
User manual download
The Ford Explorer owner manual for the 2011 model year is to be found in PDF downloadable format on this page. The owner manual for the model year 2011 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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