2011 Ford F550 Owner's Manual
Year:
2011
Make:
Ford
Model:
F550
Rating:
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
1
Introduction
5
Congratulations
5
Safety and Environment Protection
5
Warning symbols in this guide
5
Warning symbols on your vehicle
6
Protecting the environment
6
Perchlorate material
6
Breaking-in your vehicle
6
Special Notices
7
New Vehicle Limited Warranty
7
Special instructions
7
Notice to owners of diesel-powered vehicles
7
Notice to owners of pickup trucks and utility type vehicles
7
Using your vehicle with a snowplow
7
Using your vehicle as an ambulance
8
Using your vehicle as a stationary power source (PTO)
8
Data Recording
8
Service Data Recording
8
Event Data Recording
9
Vehicle Modification Data Recording
10
Cell phone use
11
Export unique (Non–United States/Canada) vehicle specific information
11
Instrument Cluster
14
Warning lights and chimes
14
Gauges
21
Standard message center
22
Selectable features
23
Info (information menu)
23
System check and vehicle feature customization
25
Compass zone/calibration adjustment
27
System warnings
29
Optional message center (if equipped)
39
Main menu
40
Gauge Mode
40
Trip A/B
41
Fuel Economy
41
Truck Apps (if equipped)
42
Settings
44
Information
46
Compass/transmission indicator displays
47
System warnings and status messages
47
Entertainment Systems
59
Audio systems
59
AM/FM stereo system (if equipped)
59
AM/FM stereo single CD/satellite-compatible sound system (if equipped)
61
Auxiliary input jack (if equipped)
68
USB port (if equipped)
70
General audio information
70
Satellite radio information (if equipped)
73
Navigation system (if equipped)
76
SYNC (if equipped)
76
Climate Controls
77
Single Zone Climate Control
77
Operating tips
78
Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control (if equipped)
80
Operating tips
82
Rear window defroster (if equipped)
84
Remote start climate operation (if equipped)
84
Lights
86
Headlamp Control
86
Autolamp control (if equipped)
86
Fog lamp control (if equipped)
87
High beams
87
Flash-to-pass
87
Daytime running lamps (DRL) (if equipped)
88
PANEL DIMMER CONTROL
88
Aiming the headlamps
88
Vertical aim adjustment
89
TURN SIGNAL CONTROL
90
Interior Lamps
90
Front map lamps (if equipped)
90
Bulb Replacement
91
Lamp assembly condensation
91
Replacing exterior bulbs
92
Replacing headlamps, park lamps, turn lamps
93
Replacing brake/tail/turn/back-up lamp bulbs (pick-ups only)
94
Replacing brake/tail/turn/back-up lamp bulbs (chassis cabs only) (if equipped)
95
Replacing cargo lamp and high-mount brakelamp bulbs
95
Replacing front clearance and identification lamp bulbs
96
Replacing fog lamp bulbs (if equipped)
96
Replacing license plate lamp bulbs
96
Driver Controls
97
Multi-function lever
97
Windshield wiper rainlamp feature (if equipped with autolamp)
97
Tilt/Telescope Steering Wheel
98
Illuminated visor mirror (if equipped)
98
Overhead console (if equipped)
98
Storage compartment (if equipped)
99
Center console (if equipped)
99
Auxiliary power point (12V DC)
100
Power point (110V AC) (if equipped)
100
Power Windows (if equipped)
102
One-touch down
102
Window lock (if equipped)
103
Power sliding back window (if equipped)
103
Accessory delay
103
Interior mirror
103
Automatic dimming interior rear view mirror (if equipped)
104
Exterior Mirrors
104
Power side view mirrors (if equipped)
104
Heated outside mirrors (if equipped)
105
Fold-away mirrors
105
Powerfold mirrors (if equipped)
105
Telescoping mirrors (if equipped)
107
Memory mirrors (if equipped)
107
Mirror-mounted side turn signal indicator (if equipped)
108
Clearance lamps (if equipped)
108
Power Adjustable Foot Pedals (if equipped)
108
Speed control (if equipped)
109
Using speed control
109
Setting speed control
109
Disengaging a set speed
110
Resuming a set speed
110
Increasing speed while using speed control
110
Reducing speed while using speed control
110
Turning off speed control
110
STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS (IF EQUIPPED)
111
Audio control features
111
Upfitter controls (if equipped)
112
Moon roof (if equipped)
113
Universal garage door opener (if equipped)
114
Car2U Home Automation System (if equipped)
115
Types of garage door openers (rolling code and fixed code)
115
Rolling code programming
116
Fixed code programming
118
Erasing the Car2U Home Automation System buttons
120
FCC and RSS-210 Industry Canada Compliance
120
Positive Retention Floor Mat (if equipped)
121
Tailgate lock (if equipped)
121
Tailgate removal
121
Tailgate step (if equipped)
123
Bed extender (if equipped)
124
Locks and Security
127
Keys
127
MyKey (if equipped)
127
Power door locks (if equipped)
135
Smart locks (if equipped)
135
Autolock feature (if equipped)
136
Deactivating/activating autolock feature
136
Power door lock switch autolock enable/disable procedure
136
Keyless entry keypad autolock enable/disable procedure
137
Autounlock feature (if equipped)
137
Deactivating/activating autounlock feature
138
Power door lock switch autounlock enable/disable procedure
138
Keyless entry keypad autounlock enable/disable procedure
139
Childproof door locks (if equipped)
139
Remote entry system (if equipped)
140
Two step door unlocking
141
One step door unlocking
141
Switching from two step to one step door unlocking
141
Locking the doors
141
Car finder
141
Sounding a panic alarm
141
Memory feature (seat, mirrors and adjustable pedals)
142
Programming memory feature to transmitter
142
Deprogramming memory feature from transmitter
142
Replacing the battery
142
Replacing lost Integrated Keyhead Transmitters (IKTs)
143
How to reprogram your Integrated Keyhead Transmitters (IKTs)
143
Illuminated entry
143
Remote start (if equipped)
144
SecuriCode™ keyless entry system (if equipped)
146
Programming a personal entry code and keypad association to memory feature
146
Erasing personal code
147
Anti-scan feature
147
Unlocking and locking the doors using keyless entry
147
Securilock passive anti-theft system (if equipped)
147
Automatic arming
148
Automatic disarming
148
Replacement keys
148
Programming spare keys
148
Perimeter alarm system (if equipped)
149
Arming the system
150
Disarming the system
150
Triggering the anti-theft system
150
Seating and Safety Restraints
151
Front seats
151
Adjustable head restraints
151
Front row center non-adjustable head restraint (if equipped)
153
Front seat
155
20 percent front seat armrest and console (if equipped)
155
Adjusting the front power seat (if equipped)
157
Using the power lumbar support (if equipped)
158
Using the manual lumbar support (if equipped)
158
Heated and cooled seats (if equipped)
158
Climate controlled seats air filter replacement (if equipped)
159
Memory seats/power mirrors/adjustable pedals (if equipped)
161
Easy-access/easy-out feature (if equipped)
161
Rear seats
162
Non-adjustable second-row head restraints
162
Folding up the rear seats (SuperCab)
163
Returning the seat to seating position
164
Folding the rear seatback (Crew Cab)
164
Folding up the rear seat cushion
164
Returning the seat to the seating position
164
Rear center armrest (if equipped)
165
Rear under seat storage (if equipped) (Crew Cab)
165
Safety restraints
166
Safety restraints precautions
166
Combination lap and shoulder belts
167
Safety belt with cinch tongue (front and rear center seat only)
168
How to fasten the cinch tongue
168
Restraint of pregnant women
169
Vehicle sensitive mode
170
Belt sensitive mode
170
Automatic locking mode
170
When to use the automatic locking mode
170
How to use the automatic locking mode
171
How to disengage the automatic locking mode
171
Energy management feature
172
Safety belt pretensioner
172
Safety belt extension assembly
172
Front safety belt height adjustment
173
Safety belt warning light and indicator chime
173
Conditions of operation
174
Belt-Minder
174
Deactivating/activating the Belt-Minder feature (Driver only)
176
Airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS)
178
Important SRS precautions
178
Children and airbags
179
How does the airbag supplemental restraint system work?
180
Seat-mounted side airbag system (if equipped)
182
How does the side airbag system work?
183
Safety Canopy System (if equipped)
184
How does the Safety Canopy System work?
185
Determining if the system is operational
187
SOS Post-Crash Alert System™
187
Passenger airbag ON/OFF switch (if equipped)
188
Turning the passenger airbag off
188
Turning the passenger airbag back on
189
NHTSA deactivation criteria (excluding Canada)
190
Transport Canada deactivation criteria (Canada Only)
191
Disposal of airbags and airbag equipped vehicles
192
Safety restraints for children
192
Important child restraint precautions
192
Recommendations for attaching child safety restraints for children
195
Transporting children
196
Safety seats for children
197
Infant and/or toddler seats
197
Installing child safety seats with automatic locking mode combination lap and shoulder belts (front passenger and rear outboard seating positions)
198
Installing child safety seats in cinch tongue combination lap and shoulder belt seating positions (All front center and Super/Crew cab rear center positions)
201
Attaching child safety seats with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) attachments
204
Attaching child safety seats with tether straps
204
Tether strap attachment (rear SuperCab only)
207
Child booster seats
209
When children should use booster seats
209
Types of booster seats
210
The importance of shoulder belts
212
Child restraint and safety belt maintenance
212
Tires, Wheels and Loading
214
Notice to utility vehicle and truck owners
214
Vehicle characteristics
214
Four-wheel drive (4WD) system (if equipped)
214
How your vehicle differs from other vehicles
215
Information about uniform tire quality grading
216
Treadwear
217
Traction AA A B C
217
Temperature A B C
217
Tires
218
Glossary of tire terminology
218
Inflating your tires
219
Tire inflation information
221
Tire care
222
Inspecting your tires and wheel valve stems
222
Tire wear
223
Damage
223
U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN)
224
Tire replacement requirements
224
Safety practices
225
Highway hazards
226
Tire and wheel alignment
226
Tire rotation
227
Information contained on the tire sidewall
228
Information on “P” type tires
229
Additional information contained on the tire sidewall for “LT” type tires
232
Information on “T” type tires
233
Location of the tire label
233
Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) (if equipped)
234
Changing tires with a TPMS
235
Understanding your tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
236
When your temporary spare tire is installed
236
When you believe your system is not operating properly
237
When inflating your tires
238
How temperature affects your tire pressure
238
TPMS reset procedure
239
Overview
239
Performing the TPMS reset procedure
239
Snow tires and chains
241
Vehicle loading – with and without a trailer
242
Special loading instructions for owners of pick-up trucks and utility-type vehicles
249
Trailer towing
249
Preparing to tow
251
Hitches
251
Hitch ratings
251
Weight-distributing hitch
252
Fifth-wheel trailer hitch (if equipped)
252
Safety chains
253
Trailer brakes
254
Integrated trailer brake controller (if equipped)
254
Trailer lamps
258
Driving while you tow
258
Trailer towing safety tips
259
General
259
Loading
259
Braking
260
Backing-up
260
Tires
260
Launching or retrieving a boat
260
Recreational towing
261
Driving
262
Starting
262
Positions of the ignition
262
Preparing to start your vehicle
262
Important safety precautions
263
Starting the engine
264
Cold weather starting (flexible fuel vehicles only)
265
If the engine fails to start using the preceding instructions (flexible fuel vehicles only)
265
Guarding against exhaust fumes
265
Important ventilating information
266
Engine block heater (if equipped)
266
Brakes
268
Four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS)
268
Using ABS
268
Brake assist
268
ABS warning lamp
269
Parking brake
269
Engine only traction control (All dual rear wheel (DRW) vehicles)
270
AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control™ (RSC) stability enhancement system (All single rear wheel (SRW) vehicles)
271
Hill descent control (if equipped)
277
Steering
279
Electronic locking differential (ELD) (if equipped)
280
Activating the electronic locking differential (ELD)
280
Preparing to drive
281
Brake-shift interlock
282
Automatic transmission operation
284
Understanding the shift positions of the 5–speed automatic transmission (if equipped)
284
Understanding the shift positions of the 6–speed automatic transmission (if equipped)
286
Understanding your SelectShift Automatic™ transmission (SST) gearshift lever
289
Hill start assist (HSA)
291
If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow
292
Reverse sensing system (if equipped)
292
Rearview camera system (if equipped)
294
Four-wheel drive (4WD) operation (if equipped)
296
Manual Shift On Stop (MSOS) 4x4 system (if equipped)
297
Electronic Shift On the Fly (ESOF) 4x4 system (if equipped)
297
4WD system indicator lights
298
Using a Manual Shift On Stop (MSOS) 4x4 system (if equipped)
298
Shifting from 2H (2WD) to 4H (4x4 High)
299
Shifting from 4H (4x4 High) to 2H (2WD)
300
Shifting from 2H (2WD) or 4H (4x4 High) to 4L (4x4 Low)
300
Shifting from 4L (4x4 Low) to 4H (4x4 High) or 2H (2WD)
300
Using the N (Neutral) position
301
Using the electronic shift 4WD system (if equipped)
301
Shifting between 2H (4X2) and 4H (4X4 high)
302
Shifting to/from 4L (4X4 low)
302
Driving off-road with truck and utility vehicles
303
How your vehicle differs from other vehicles
303
Basic operating principles
303
If your vehicle goes off the edge of the pavement
304
If your vehicle gets stuck
304
Emergency maneuvers
305
Parking
305
4WD systems
306
Normal characteristics
306
Sand
306
Mud and water
307
Driving on hilly or sloping terrain
308
Driving on snow and ice
308
Maintenance and modifications
309
Vehicle used as a stationary power source
310
Driving through water
310
Snowplowing
311
Installing the snowplow
311
Operating the vehicle with the snowplow attached
312
Snowplowing with your airbag-equipped vehicle
312
Transmission operation while plowing
313
Roadside Emergencies
314
Roadside Assistance
314
Vehicles sold in the U.S. : Getting roadside assistance
314
Vehicles sold in the U.S. : Using roadside assistance
314
Vehicles sold in Canada : Getting roadside assistance
315
Vehicles sold in Canada : Using roadside assistance
315
Hazard Flasher Control
315
Fuel Pump Shut-off
316
Fuses and relays
316
Fuses
316
Standard fuse amperage rating and color
317
Passenger compartment fuse panel
317
Power distribution box
322
Changing the tires
326
Dissimilar spare tire/wheel information
327
Stopping and securing the vehicle
329
Location of the spare tire and tools
330
Removing the spare tire (with spare tire carrier only)
330
Tire change procedure
332
Installing dual rear wheel ornaments
340
Stowing the flat/spare tire
341
Wheel lug nut torque specifications
342
Jump starting
343
Preparing your vehicle
344
Connecting the jumper cables
344
Jump starting
345
Removing the jumper cables
346
Wrecker towing
347
Emergency towing
348
Customer Assistance
349
GETTING THE SERVICES YOU NEED
349
Away from home
349
Additional assistance
350
In California (U.S. only)
351
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) Auto Line Program (U.S. only)
352
Utilizing The Mediation/Arbitration Program (Canada only)
353
GETTING ASSISTANCE OUTSIDE THE U.S. AND CANADA
353
ORDERING ADDITIONAL OWNER’S LITERATURE
355
Obtaining a French Owner’s Guide
355
Reporting safety defects (U.S. only)
356
Reporting safety defects (Canada only)
356
Cleaning
357
Washing the exterior
357
Waxing
358
Paint chips
358
Aluminum wheels and wheel covers
358
Engine
358
Plastic (non-painted) exterior parts
360
Windows and wiper blades
360
Instrument panel/Interior trim and cluster lens (except Harley-Davidson)
361
Instrument panel and console (Harley-Davidson only)
362
Interior
363
Leather seats (if equipped, except for the King Ranch edition)
363
Leather seats for the King Ranch edition only (if equipped)
364
Underbody
365
Ford and Lincoln car care products
365
Maintenance and Specifications
366
Service recommendations
366
Precautions when servicing your vehicle
366
Working with the engine off
366
Working with the engine on
366
Opening the hood
367
Identifying components in the engine compartment
367
6.2L V8 gasoline engine
368
6.8L V10 gasoline engine
369
Windshield washer fluid
370
Changing the wiper blades
370
Engine oil
371
Checking the engine oil
371
Adding engine oil
372
Engine oil and filter recommendations
372
Use SAE 5W-20 engine oil
372
Battery
373
Engine coolant
375
Checking engine coolant
375
Adding engine coolant
376
Recycled engine coolant
378
Coolant refill capacity
378
Severe climates
379
What you should know about fail-safe cooling (if equipped)
379
How fail-safe cooling works
380
When fail-safe mode is activated
380
Engine fluid temperature management (except 6.8L V10)
381
Fuel filter
382
What you should know about automotive fuels
382
Important safety precautions
382
Refueling
385
Fuel filler cap
385
FFV (Flex Fuel Vehicle) fuel cap
386
Choosing the right fuel
386
Octane recommendations
386
FFV engine (if equipped)
387
Fuel quality
387
Diesel engine (if equipped)
388
Cleaner air
388
Running out of fuel
388
Essentials of good fuel economy
389
Measuring techniques
389
Filling the tank
389
Calculating fuel economy
390
Driving style — good driving and fuel economy habits
390
Habits
390
Maintenance
391
Conditions
391
Emission control system
392
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II)
393
Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing
394
Power steering fluid
395
Brake fluid
396
Transmission fluid
396
Checking automatic transmission fluid (if equipped)
396
Low fluid level
397
Correct fluid level
397
High fluid level
398
Adjusting automatic transmission fluid levels
399
Transfer case fluid (if equipped)
400
Air filter
400
Changing the air filter element
401
Vehicle storage
403
Motorcraft part numbers
406
Maintenance product specifications and capacities
407
Engine data
411
Engine drivebelt routing
411
Identifying your vehicle
412
Safety Compliance Certification Label
412
Vehicle identification number (VIN)
413
Transmission code designations
414
Accessories
415
Ford Custom Accessories for your vehicle
415
Exterior style
415
Interior style
415
Lifestyle
416
Peace of mind
416
Ford Extended Service Plan
418
Ford ESP Extended Service Plans (U.S. Only)
418
Ford ESP Extended Service Plans (Canada Only)
421
Scheduled Maintenance
422
General maintenance information
422
Why maintain your vehicle?
422
Protecting your investment
422
Oils, fluids and flushing
423
Genuine Ford parts and service
423
Convenience
423
Factory-trained technicians
423
Genuine Ford and Motorcraft replacement parts
424
Value shopping for your vehicle’s maintenance needs
424
Owner checks and services
424
Multi-point inspection
425
Normal scheduled maintenance and log
428
Maintenance schedule log
432
Special operating conditions
435
Special operating condition log
438
Exceptions
440
Engine coolant change record
441
Engine coolant change log
442
Index
443
2011 Ford F550 Overview
Introduction
The 2011 Ford F550 is a robust, heavy-duty truck engineered for those who demand uncompromising performance and versatility. This workhorse is built to tackle the toughest jobs with confidence, whether you’re handling construction sites or towing heavy loads. Combining Ford's legendary durability with modern technology, the F550 is a remarkable blend of strength and sophistication, making it an ideal vehicle for both commercial and personal use.
Powertrains
Under the hood, the 2011 Ford F550 offers a selection of powerful engine options to suit a variety of needs. The standard 6.8-liter V10 gasoline engine delivers a potent 362 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque, providing robust performance for daily driving and towing. For those requiring diesel power, the optional 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbocharged diesel engine generates an impressive 390 horsepower and a staggering 735 lb-ft of torque, ensuring the capability to haul even the heaviest trailers with ease. Both engines are paired with a heavy-duty 6-speed automatic transmission for smooth shifting and optimal efficiency.
Trims
The 2011 F550 is available in several trims, including the XL, XLT, and Lariat. The base XL trim is equipped with essential features for utility, while the XLT adds amenities such as chrome bumpers and upgraded audio systems for a more comfortable ride. The Lariat trim stands out with premium upgrades like leather seating, advanced technology features, and enhanced interior comfort, making it suitable for long hauls without sacrificing luxury.
Features
Ford prioritizes driver and passenger comfort in the F550, offering a range of features such as air conditioning, cruise control, and power windows. Advanced towing technologies are also available, including integrated trailer brake controllers and towing mirrors for enhanced visibility. Owners will appreciate the spacious interior designed to accommodate work gear without compromising passenger comfort.
Owner's Manual
The 2011 Ford F550 owner's manual is an essential resource for understanding the truck's capabilities and maintenance requirements. It provides detailed information on features, operation, and guidance for routine service, ensuring that owners can maximize the performance and longevity of their vehicle. With clear instructions and helpful diagrams, the manual is an excellent companion for any F550 owner.
User manual download
The Ford F550 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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