2012 Ford Explorer Owner's Manual
Year:
2012
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
7
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
33
Information
35
System warnings and status messages
36
System warnings and status messages
36
Entertainment Systems
48
MyFord™ system (if equipped)
48
Radio
49
SIRIUS? satellite radio (if equipped)
51
Satellite radio information (if activated)
53
Playing a disc
55
Auxiliary input jack (line in)
57
USB port (if equipped)
58
Media hub (if equipped)
58
Phone
59
MyFord Touch™ (if equipped)
59
SYNC? (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
68
Auxiliary system
68
Rear window defroster
68
Remote start climate operation (if equipped)
69
Cabin air filter
70
Lights
71
Headlamp Control
71
Autolamp control (if equipped)
71
Autolamp delay system (if equipped)
71
Fog lamp control
72
High beams
72
Flash-to-pass
73
Daytime running lamps (DRL) (if equipped)
73
PANEL DIMMER CONTROL
73
Aiming the headlamps
74
Vertical aim adjustment
74
TURN SIGNAL CONTROL
76
Interior lamps
77
Front row map lamps (if equipped)
77
Second row dome/map lamps (if equipped)
77
Second row dome/courtesy lamps (if equipped)
77
Third row cargo lamp
78
Bulb Replacement
78
Lamp assembly condensation
78
Using the right bulbs
79
Replacing interior bulbs
80
Replacing exterior bulbs
80
Replacing headlamp bulbs
80
Replacing HID headlamp bulbs (if equipped)
81
Replacing front parking lamp/turn signal bulbs
81
Replacing sidemarker bulbs
82
Replacing turn/backup lamp bulbs
83
Replacing tail/brake lamp bulbs
84
Replacing fog lamp bulbs
85
Replacing license plate lamp bulb
85
Replacing high-mount brake lamp bulb
85
Driver Controls
86
Windshield Wipers
86
Windshield wiper rainlamp feature (if equipped with autolamp)
87
Rear window wiper/washer controls
87
Tilt/Telescope Steering Wheel
88
Illuminated visor mirror (if equipped)
89
Overhead console
89
Storage compartment
89
Center console
90
Rear center console features (if equipped)
90
Auxiliary power points (12V DC)
90
Power point (110V AC) (if equipped)
91
Power Windows
93
One-touch down
93
One-touch up or down (front windows) (if equipped)
93
Bounce-back
94
Security override
94
Window lock
94
Accessory delay
94
Interior mirror
95
Automatic dimming interior rear view mirror (if equipped)
95
Exterior Mirrors
96
Power side view mirrors
96
Heated outside mirrors (if equipped)
96
Fold-away mirrors
97
Signal indicator mirrors (if equipped)
97
Blind spot mirrors (if equipped)
97
Power Adjustable Foot Pedals (if equipped)
98
Speed control (if equipped)
98
Using speed control
98
Setting speed control
99
Disengaging speed control
99
Resuming a set speed
99
Increasing speed while using speed control
99
Reducing speed while using speed control
99
Turning off speed control
100
ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL (ACC) (IF EQUIPPED)
100
Using adaptive cruise control
101
Setting adaptive cruise control
101
Setting the gap distance
103
Disengaging adaptive cruise control
103
Overriding adaptive cruise control
103
Changing the set speed
104
Resuming the set speed
104
Low speed automatic cancellation
104
Hilly condition usage
104
Turning off cruise control
104
Detection issues
105
ACC Not Available
106
Blocked sensor
107
Switching to normal cruise control
108
STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS
108
Audio control features
108
Cluster display control features
109
Dual panel moon roof and power sunscreen (if equipped)
110
Universal garage door opener (if equipped)
111
Car2U? Home Automation System (if equipped)
111
Types of garage door openers (rolling code and fixed code)
112
Rolling code programming
113
Fixed code programming
114
Erasing the Car2U? Home Automation System buttons
116
FCC and RSS-210 Industry Canada Compliance
117
Positive Retention Floor Mat
117
Cargo Area Features
118
Cargo net (if equipped)
118
Utility hook
119
Manual liftgate (if equipped)
119
Power liftgate (if equipped)
120
Roof Rack System (if equipped)
124
Locks and Security
126
Keys
126
Intelligent Access Key (IA key) (if equipped)
126
MyKey?
127
Power door locks
133
Smart unlocks for integrated keyhead transmitter (IKT)
133
Smart unlocks for intelligent access keys (IA key) (if equipped)
133
Autolock feature (if enabled)
134
Deactivating/activating autolock feature
134
Autounlock feature (if enabled)
134
Deactivating/activating autounlock feature
134
Childproof door locks
135
Remote entry system
135
Intelligent access (if equipped)
136
Unlocking the doors/two-stage unlock
137
Locking the doors
138
Car finder
138
Sounding a panic alarm
138
Opening the power liftgate (if equipped)
138
Memory feature (if equipped)
139
Programming the memory feature to the transmitter
139
Deprogramming the memory feature from the transmitter
139
Replacing the battery
140
Replacing lost intelligent access keys (IA keys)
141
How to reprogram your intelligent access keys (IA keys)
141
Illuminated entry
141
Illuminated exit
142
Battery saver
142
Accessory mode battery saver for intelligent access keys (if equipped)
142
Remote start (if equipped)
142
SecuriCode™ keyless entry system (if equipped)
145
Programming a personal entry code and keypad association to memory feature
145
Erasing personal code
146
Anti-scan feature
146
Unlocking and locking the doors using keyless entry
146
Securilock? passive anti-theft system
147
Automatic arming
147
Automatic disarming
147
Replacement of integrated keyhead transmitters (IKT) or intelligent access keys
148
Programming spare integrated keyhead transmitter (IKT) keys
148
Programming spare intelligent access keys (if equipped)
150
Perimeter alarm system (if equipped)
151
Arming the system
151
Seating and Safety Restraints
153
Front seats
153
Adjustable head restraints
153
Adjusting the front manual seat (if equipped)
155
Using the manual lumbar support (if equipped)
156
Adjusting the front power seat (if equipped)
156
Using the power lumbar support (if equipped)
158
Dual setting heated seats (if equipped)
158
Three-position heated and cooled seats (if equipped)
159
Heated seats
159
Cooled seats
160
Climate controlled seats air filter replacement (if equipped)
160
Memory feature (if equipped)
162
Easy entry/exit feature (if equipped)
162
Rear seats
163
Second and third row head restraints
163
Adjusting second row bucket and bench seat back
165
Adjusting second row seats (six–passenger vehicles only)
165
Accessing the third row seats
165
2nd row power fold and tumble seat (six–passenger vehicles only)
168
Exiting the third row seat
168
Stowing the third row seat (manual seat)
170
Unstowing the third row seat
171
PowerFold? 3rd-row seat (if equipped)
173
Personal Safety System™
174
How does the Personal Safety System™ work?
175
Driver and passenger dual-stage airbag supplemental restraints
175
Front crash severity sensor
175
Driver’s seat position sensor
176
Front passenger sensing system
176
Front safety belt usage sensors
176
Front safety belt pretensioners
177
Front safety belt energy management retractors
177
Determining if the Personal Safety System is operational
177
Safety Belt System
178
Combination lap and shoulder belts (standard belts shown, 2nd row inflatable belts similar-if equipped)
179
Restraint of pregnant women
180
Safety belt locking modes
180
Rear Inflatable Safety Belt (if equipped)
182
How does the rear inflatable safety belt system work?
183
Energy management feature — front outboard
184
Safety belt pretensioner
184
Safety belt extension assembly
185
SAFETY BELT HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
185
Safety belt warning light and indicator chime
186
Conditions of operation
186
Belt-Minder?
186
Deactivating/activating the Belt-Minder? feature
189
AIRBAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)
191
Important SRS precautions
191
Children and airbags
193
How does the airbag supplemental restraint system work?
193
Front passenger sensing system
195
Determining if the system is operational
199
Seat-mounted side airbag system
200
How does the side airbag system work?
200
Safety Canopy? System
202
How does the Safety Canopy? System work?
203
Determining if the system is operational
204
SOS Post-Crash Alert System™
205
Disposal of airbags and airbag equipped vehicles (including pretensioners and inflatable safety belts)
205
Safety restraints for children
205
Important child restraint precautions
205
Recommendations for attaching child safety restraints for children
208
Transporting children
209
Safety seats for children
210
Infant and/or toddler seats
210
Installing child safety seats with combination lap and shoulder belts
211
Attaching child safety seats with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) attachments
216
Use of inboard lower anchors from the outboard seating positions (center seating use)
217
Combining safety belt and LATCH lower anchors for attaching child safety seats
218
Attaching child safety seats with tether straps
218
Child booster seats
222
When children should use booster seats
222
Types of booster seats
223
The importance of shoulder belts
224
Child restraint and safety belt maintenance
225
Tires, Wheels and Loading
226
Notice to utility vehicle and truck owners
226
Vehicle characteristics
227
Four-wheel drive (4WD) system (if equipped)
227
How your vehicle differs from other vehicles
228
Information about uniform tire quality grading
229
Treadwear
229
Traction AA A B C
229
Temperature A B C
230
Tires
230
Glossary of tire terminology
230
Inflating your tires
231
Tire care
233
Inspecting your tires and wheel valve stems
233
Tire wear
234
Damage
234
U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN)
235
Tire replacement requirements
235
Safety practices
237
Highway hazards
237
Tire and wheel alignment
238
Tire rotation
238
Information contained on the tire sidewall
239
Information on “P” type tires
239
Additional information contained on the tire sidewall for “LT” type tires
242
Information on “T” type tires
243
Location of the tire label
243
Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
244
Changing tires with a TPMS
245
Understanding your tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
245
When your temporary spare tire is installed
245
When you believe your system is not operating properly
246
When inflating your tires
247
How temperature affects your tire pressure
247
Snow tires and cables
248
Vehicle loading – with and without a trailer
248
Special loading instructions for owners of pick-up trucks and utility-type vehicles
255
Trailer towing
256
Trailer hitch cover
257
Preparing to tow
258
Hitches
258
Weight-distributing hitch
258
Safety chains
259
Trailer brakes
259
Trailer lamps
259
Driving while you tow
260
Trailer towing tips
260
Recreational towing
260
Driving
262
Starting
262
Positions of the ignition (if equipped)
262
Preparing to start your vehicle
262
Important safety precautions
263
Starting the engine
265
Push button start system (if equipped)
265
Guarding against exhaust fumes
268
Important ventilating information
268
Engine block heater (if equipped)
268
Brakes
270
Four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS)
270
Using ABS
270
Brake assist
271
ABS warning lamp
271
Brake over accelerator
271
Parking brake
272
AdvanceTrac? with Roll Stability Control™ (RSC?) stability enhancement system
273
Hill descent control™ (if equipped)
279
Steering
280
Preparing to drive
281
Brake-shift interlock
282
Automatic transmission operation
283
Automatic transmission adaptive learning
283
Understanding the gearshift positions of the 6–speed automatic transmission
284
Understanding your SelectShift Automatic™ Transmission (SST)
287
Hill start assist (HSA)
288
If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow
289
Reverse sensing system (if equipped)
289
Rearview camera system (if equipped)
291
Collision warning system (if equipped)
295
Active park assist (APA) (if equipped)
298
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
322
Fuel Pump Shut-off
322
Fuses and relays
323
Fuses
323
Standard fuse amperage rating and color
323
Passenger compartment fuse panel
324
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
Wheel lug nut torque specifications
340
Running out of fuel
340
Jump starting
341
Preparing your vehicle
341
Connecting the jumper cables
342
Jump starting
343
Removing the jumper cables
343
Wrecker towing
344
Emergency towing
345
Customer Assistance
346
GETTING THE SERVICES YOU NEED
346
Away from home
346
Additional assistance
347
IN CALIFORNIA (U.S. ONLY)
348
THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU (BBB) AUTO LINE PROGRAM (U.S. ONLY)
349
UTILIZING THE MEDIATION/ARBITRATION PROGRAM (CANADA ONLY)
350
GETTING ASSISTANCE OUTSIDE THE U.S. AND CANADA
350
ORDERING ADDITIONAL OWNER’S LITERATURE
352
Obtaining a French Owner’s Guide
352
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS (U.S. ONLY)
353
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS (CANADA ONLY)
353
Cleaning
354
Washing the exterior
354
Waxing
355
Paint chips
355
Aluminum wheels and wheel covers
355
Engine
356
Plastic (non-painted) exterior parts
357
Windows and wiper blades
357
Instrument panel/Interior trim and cluster lens
358
Interior
359
Leather seats (if equipped)
360
Underbody
360
Ford and Lincoln car care products
360
Maintenance and Specifications
362
Service recommendations
362
Precautions when servicing your vehicle
362
Working with the engine off
362
Working with the engine on
362
Opening the hood
363
Identifying components in the engine compartment
364
Windshield washer fluid
366
Checking and adding washer fluid for the liftgate
366
Changing the wiper blades
367
Changing the rear window wiper blade
367
Engine oil
368
Checking the engine oil
368
Adding engine oil
369
Engine oil and filter recommendations
369
Use SAE 5W-30 engine oil
369
Use SAE 5W-20 engine oil
370
Battery
371
Battery management system
373
Electrical accessory installation
374
Engine coolant
375
Checking engine coolant
375
Adding engine coolant
376
Recycled engine coolant
378
Coolant refill capacity
378
Severe climates
378
Engine fluid temperature management (if equipped)
379
What you should know about fail-safe cooling
380
How fail-safe cooling works
380
When fail-safe mode is activated
381
Fuel Filter
381
What you should know about automotive fuels
382
Important safety precautions
382
Refueling
383
Easy Fuel? “no cap” fuel system
384
Choosing the right fuel
385
Octane recommendations
385
Fuel quality
386
Cleaner air
386
Running out of fuel
386
Refilling with a portable fuel container
387
Essentials of good fuel economy
388
Measuring techniques
388
Filling the tank
388
Calculating fuel economy
389
Driving style — good driving and fuel economy habits
389
Habits
389
Maintenance
390
Conditions
390
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
391
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II)
392
Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing
393
Brake fluid
394
Transmission fluid
394
Checking automatic transmission fluid (6F50/6F55) (if equipped)
394
Low fluid level
395
Correct fluid level
395
High fluid level
395
Adjusting automatic transmission fluid levels
396
Checking automatic transmission fluid (6F35) (if equipped)
396
Air filter
397
Changing the air filter element
397
Vehicle storage
398
Motorcraft part numbers
400
Maintenance product specifications and capacities
401
Engine data
404
Engine drivebelt routing
404
Identifying your vehicle
405
Safety Compliance Certification Label
405
Vehicle identification number (VIN)
405
Transmission code designations
406
Accessories
407
Ford Custom Accessories for your vehicle
407
Exterior style
407
Interior style
407
Lifestyle
407
Peace of mind
408
Ford Extended Service Plan
409
FORD ESP EXTENDED SERVICE PLANS (U.S. ONLY)
409
FORD ESP EXTENDED SERVICE PLANS (CANADA ONLY)
412
Scheduled Maintenance
413
GENERAL MAINTENANCE INFORMATION
413
Why maintain your vehicle?
413
Protecting your investment
413
Oils, fluids and flushing
414
Genuine Ford parts and service
415
Convenience
415
Factory-trained technicians
415
Genuine Ford and Motorcraft? replacement parts
415
Value shopping for your vehicle’s maintenance needs
415
Owner checks and services
416
Multi-point inspection
417
NORMAL SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE AND LOG
419
Intelligent Oil Life Monitor™
419
Maintenance schedule log
422
SPECIAL OPERATING CONDITIONS
425
Special operating condition log
428
EXCEPTIONS
430
ENGINE COOLANT CHANGE RECORD
431
Engine coolant change log
431
Index
432
2012 Ford Explorer Overview
Introduction
The 2012 Ford Explorer represents a bold evolution of one of America’s most iconic SUVs, seamlessly blending style, utility, and advanced technology. This new generation Explorer, introduced in 2011, shifts from a traditional truck-like body-on-frame to a modern unibody construction, enhancing ride comfort and fuel efficiency. With an assertive exterior design and versatile interior, it’s perfectly suited for families and adventure seekers alike.
Powertrains
The 2012 Explorer offers two robust powertrain options to cater to various driving needs. The base model is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering a robust 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque, making it capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds. For those seeking more efficiency, an available 2.0-liter EcoBoost inline-four engine produces 240 horsepower while providing better fuel economy, achieving an impressive 28 mpg on the highway. Both options come standard with a six-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth shifts and responsive driving.
Trims
The 2012 Ford Explorer is available in several trims: XLS, XLT, Limited, and Sport. Each trim offers a range of features and customization options. The XLT adds conveniences like dual-zone climate control and a rearview camera, while the Limited trim elevates luxury with leather seating, a premium sound system, and advanced technology like Ford’s SYNC infotainment system. The Sport trim, in particular, emphasizes performance with a more powerful V6 engine, sport-tuned suspension, and distinctive styling cues.
Features
Ford ensures that the Explorer embodies both safety and comfort. Standard features include front-seat side airbags, stability control, and antilock brakes, and higher trims offer advanced features like adaptive cruise control and collision warning systems. The spacious interior, designed for up to seven passengers, includes flexible seating arrangements and generous cargo space, making it a practical choice for families and traveling adventurers.
Owner's Manual
The 2012 Ford Explorer’s owner's manual is an essential resource for any owner, providing comprehensive information on maintenance schedules, operational features, troubleshooting tips, and safety information. It ensures that owners fully understand their vehicle’s capabilities and can maximize the SUV’s performance and longevity. Whether for first-time usage or for regular upkeep, the owner’s manual offers invaluable guidance to enhance the driving experience.
User manual download
The Ford Explorer owner manual for the 2012 model year is to be found in PDF downloadable format on this page. The owner manual for the model year 2012 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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