2012 Ford Flex Owner's Manual
Year:
2012
Make:
Ford
Model:
Flex
Rating:
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
2
Introduction
6
CONGRATULATIONS
6
SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION
7
Warning symbols in this guide
7
Warning symbols on your vehicle
7
Protecting the environment
7
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING
7
PERCHLORATE MATERIAL
8
BREAKING-IN YOUR VEHICLE
8
SPECIAL NOTICES
8
New Vehicle Limited Warranty
8
Special instructions
8
DATA RECORDING
9
Service Data Recording
9
Event Data Recording
9
CELL PHONE USE
11
EXPORT UNIQUE (NON–UNITED STATES/CANADA) VEHICLE SPECIFIC INFORMATION
12
Instrument Cluster
15
WARNING LIGHTS AND CHIMES
15
GAUGES
19
MESSAGE CENTER
21
Info
21
System check and vehicle feature customization
23
System warnings
25
Entertainment Systems
31
AUDIO SYSTEMS
31
AM/FM CD/MP3 satellite compatible sound system
31
Setting the clock
31
AM/FM Radio
32
RDS Radio
33
CD/MP3 Player
33
Satellite Radio (if equipped)
35
Sound Adjustments
38
Extra Features
39
Audio system–Navigation system based (if equipped)
40
Auxiliary input jack (Line in)
40
USB port (if equipped)
42
GENERAL AUDIO INFORMATION
42
Satellite radio information (if equipped)
45
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT DVD SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
49
Quick start
49
To play a DVD
49
To play a CD or MP3 disc
50
To play an auxiliary source through the DVD system
50
DVD player controls
52
Remote control
54
Battery replacement
57
Headphones
57
Wireless headphones
57
Wired headphones
59
Operation
59
Single play/dual play
59
Setup menu options
61
Aspect ratio (TV display type)
62
OSD language
62
Angle mark
63
Speaker setup
64
Video setup
64
General setup — screen exit
65
Parental control for the DVD system
65
General information
66
Safety information
67
Federal Communication Commission (FCC) Compliance
68
Care and service of the DVD player
68
Environmental extremes
68
Temperature extremes
68
Humidity and moisture condensation
69
Foreign substances
69
Cleaning the liquid crystal display (LCD) screen
69
Cleaning DVD and CD discs
69
NAVIGATION SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
69
SYNC? (IF EQUIPPED)
69
Climate Controls
70
SINGLE ZONE CLIMATE CONTROL WITH REAR PASSENGER COMPARTMENT CLIMATE CONTROL
70
Operating tips
72
DUAL ZONE AUTOMATIC TEMPERATURE CONTROL WITH HEATED SEATS AND REAR PASSENGER COMPARTMENT CLIMATE CONTROL (IF EQUIPPED)
73
DUAL ZONE AUTOMATIC TEMPERATURE CONTROL (NAVIGATION BASED–IF EQUIPPED)
76
TOUCHSCREEN FUNCTIONS
78
VOICE COMMANDS IN CLIMATE MODE
79
Operating tips
79
AUXILIARY CLIMATE CONTROL
81
REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER
82
CABIN AIR FILTER
82
Lights
83
HEADLAMP CONTROL
83
Autolamp control (if equipped)
83
Autolamps - programmable exit delay
83
Fog lamp control
84
High beams
84
Flash-to-pass
84
Daytime running lamps (DRL) (if equipped)
85
PANEL DIMMER CONTROL
85
AIMING THE HEADLAMPS
85
Vertical aim adjustment
86
TURN SIGNAL CONTROL
87
INTERIOR LAMPS
87
Front map lamps
87
Ambient lighting (if equipped)
88
BULB REPLACEMENT
88
Lamp assembly condensation
88
Using the right bulbs
89
Replacing interior bulbs
89
Replacing exterior bulbs
89
Replacing headlamp (high beam/low beam) halogen bulbs
90
Replacing HID headlamp bulbs (if equipped)
90
Replacing front parking lamp/turn signal bulbs
90
Replacing rear stop/tail/turn/backup and side marker lamp bulbs (non LED)
91
Replacing license plate lamp bulbs
92
Replacing fog lamp bulbs
92
Driver Controls
93
MULTI-FUNCTION LEVER
93
Windshield wiper rainlamp feature
93
Rear window wiper/washer controls
94
TILT/TELESCOPE STEERING WHEEL
94
ILLUMINATED VISOR MIRROR
95
OVERHEAD CONSOLE
95
Storage compartment
95
CLOCK (IF EQUIPPED)
96
ELECTRONIC COMPASS
96
Compass zone adjustment
97
Compass calibration adjustment
98
CENTER CONSOLE
98
Console refrigerator/freezer (if equipped)
99
AUXILIARY POWER POINT (12V DC)
100
Power point (110V AC) (if equipped)
101
POWER WINDOWS
103
One-touch up or down (driver’s window only)
103
Bounce-back (driver’s window only)
103
Security override
104
Window lock
104
Accessory delay
104
INTERIOR MIRROR
104
Automatic dimming interior rear view mirror
104
EXTERIOR MIRRORS
105
Power side view mirrors
105
Heated outside mirrors (if equipped)
105
POWER ADJUSTABLE FOOT PEDALS (IF EQUIPPED)
106
SPEED CONTROL
106
Using speed control
107
Setting speed control
107
Disengaging speed control
107
Resuming a set speed
107
Increasing speed while using speed control
108
Reducing speed while using speed control
108
Turning off speed control
108
STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS (IF EQUIPPED)
108
Radio control features
108
MULTI-PANEL VISTA ROOF™ (IF EQUIPPED)
110
UNIVERSAL GARAGE DOOR OPENER (IF EQUIPPED)
111
HomeLink? Wireless Control System (if equipped)
111
Programming
112
Gate Operator & Canadian Programming
113
Operating the HomeLink? Wireless Control System
114
Erasing HomeLink? buttons
114
Reprogramming a single HomeLink? button
114
POSITIVE RETENTION FLOOR MAT
115
MANUAL LIFTGATE
116
POWER LIFTGATE (IF EQUIPPED)
117
CARGO AREA FEATURES
121
Cargo net (if equipped)
121
ROOF RACK SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
121
Locks and Security
123
KEYS
123
MYKEY?
124
POWER DOOR LOCKS
129
Smart locks
129
Autolock feature (if enabled)
129
Deactivating/activating autolock feature
130
Power door lock switch autolock enable/disable procedure
130
Autounlock feature (if enabled)
130
Deactivating/activating autounlock feature
131
Power door lock switch autounlock enable/disable procedure
131
CHILDPROOF DOOR LOCKS
132
REMOTE ENTRY SYSTEM
132
Unlocking the doors/two stage unlock
134
Locking the doors
134
Car finder
134
Sounding a panic alarm
134
Opening the power liftgate (if equipped)
135
Memory feature (seat, mirrors and adjustable pedals)
135
Programming memory feature to the transmitter
135
Deprogramming memory feature from the transmitter
136
Replacing the battery
136
Replacing lost integrated keyhead transmitters (IKTs)
137
How to reprogram your integrated keyhead transmitters (IKTs)
137
Illuminated entry
137
Illuminated exit
137
Battery saver
137
SECURICODE™ KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM
138
Programming a personal entry code and keypad association to memory seats, mirrors, and adjustable pedals (if equipped)
138
Erasing personal code
139
Anti-scan feature
139
Unlocking and locking the doors using keyless entry
139
SECURILOCK? PASSIVE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM
140
Anti-theft indicator
141
Automatic arming
141
Automatic disarming
141
Replacement of integrated keyhead transmitters (IKT) and coded keys
141
Programming spare keys
142
PERIMETER ALARM SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
143
Arming the system
144
Disarming the system
145
Seating and Safety Restraints
146
FRONT SEATS
146
Adjustable head restraints
146
Adjusting the front manual seat (if equipped)
149
Using the manual lumbar support (if equipped)
150
Adjusting the front power seat (if equipped)
151
Using the power lumbar support (if equipped)
153
Heated seats (if equipped)
153
Memory seat/power mirrors/adjustable pedals (if equipped)
154
Folding down the front passenger seatback
154
Easy entry/exit feature (if equipped)
155
REAR SEATS
155
Second and third row head restraints
155
Adjusting second row bucket and bench seat back
158
Adjusting second row seats (six–passenger vehicles only)
158
Accessing the third row seats
158
2nd row power fold and tumble seat
160
Exiting the third row seat
161
Second row heated seats (if equipped)
163
Stowing the third row seat
164
Unstowing the third row seat
165
PowerFold? 3rd-row seat (if equipped)
165
Closing the liftgate
167
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 BELT SYSTEM
171
Combination lap and shoulder belts
172
Restraint of pregnant women
173
Safety belt locking modes
173
Energy management feature — front outboard
175
Safety belt pretensioner
175
Safety belt extension assembly
176
Front safety belt height adjustment
176
Safety belt warning light and indicator chime
176
Conditions of operation
177
Belt-Minder?
177
Deactivating/activating the Belt-Minder? feature
180
AIRBAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)
182
Important SRS precautions
182
Children and airbags
184
How does the airbag supplemental restraint system work?
184
Front passenger sensing system
186
Determining if the system is operational
190
Seat-mounted side airbag system
191
How does the side airbag system work?
191
Safety Canopy? System
193
How does the Safety Canopy? System work?
194
Determining if the system is operational
196
SOS Post-Crash Alert System™
196
Disposal of airbags and airbag equipped vehicles (including pretensioners)
196
SAFETY RESTRAINTS FOR CHILDREN
196
Important child restraint precautions
197
Recommendations for attaching child safety restraints for children
199
Transporting children
200
SAFETY SEATS FOR CHILDREN
201
Infant and/or toddler seats
201
Installing child safety seats with combination lap and shoulder belts
202
Attaching child safety seats with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) attachments
205
Use of inboard lower anchors from the outboard seating positions (center seating use)
207
Combining safety belt and LATCH lower anchors for attaching child safety seats
207
Attaching child safety seats with tether straps
208
Child booster seats
210
When children should use booster seats
211
Types of booster seats
212
The importance of shoulder belts
213
Child restraint and safety belt maintenance
214
Tires, Wheels and Loading
215
NOTICE TO CROSSOVER VEHICLE OWNERS
215
VEHICLE CHARACTERISTICS
215
All-wheel drive (AWD) system (if equipped)
215
How your vehicle differs from other vehicles
216
INFORMATION ABOUT UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADING
217
Treadwear
217
Traction AA A B C
217
Temperature A B C
218
TIRES
218
Glossary of Tire Terminology
218
INFLATING YOUR TIRES
219
TIRE CARE
221
Inspecting your tires and wheel valve stems
221
Tire wear
222
Damage
222
U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN)
223
Tire Replacement Requirements
223
Safety Practices
225
Highway hazards
225
Tire and Wheel Alignment
225
Tire rotation
226
INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE TIRE SIDEWALL
227
Information on “P” type tires
227
Additional information contained on the tire sidewall for “LT” type tires
230
Information on “T” type tires
231
Location of the tire label
231
TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS)
232
Changing Tires with a TPMS
233
Understanding your tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
233
When your temporary spare tire is installed
233
When you believe your system is not operating properly
234
When inflating your tires
235
How temperature affects your tire pressure
235
SNOW TIRES AND CABLES/CHAINS
236
VEHICLE LOADING – WITH AND WITHOUT A TRAILER
237
TRAILER TOWING
244
Preparing to tow
245
Hitches
245
Weight-distributing hitch
245
Safety chains
246
Trailer brakes
246
Trailer brake controller connector (if equipped)
247
Trailer lamps
247
Driving while you tow
248
Trailer towing tips
248
RECREATIONAL TOWING
248
Driving
250
STARTING
250
Positions of the ignition
250
Starting your vehicle
250
Important safety precautions
251
Starting the engine
253
Guarding Against Exhaust Fumes
253
Important Ventilating Information
253
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER (IF EQUIPPED)
254
BRAKES
255
Four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS)
256
Using ABS
256
Brake assist
256
ABS warning lamp
256
Brake over accelerator
257
Parking brake
257
ADVANCETRAC? WITH ROLL STABILITY CONTROL™ (RSC?) STABILITY ENHANCEMENT SYSTEM
258
STEERING
263
BRAKE-SHIFT INTERLOCK
265
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OPERATION
266
Automatic transmission adaptive learning
266
Understanding the gearshift positions of the 6–speed automatic transmission with transmission control switch (if equipped)
267
Understanding the gearshift positions of the 6–speed with SelectShift Automatic™ transmission (SST) (if equipped)
269
Understanding your SelectShift Automatic™ Transmission (SST) (if equipped)
271
REVERSE SENSING SYSTEM
272
REARVIEW CAMERA SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
274
ACTIVE PARK ASSIST (APA) (IF EQUIPPED)
276
ALL-WHEEL DRIVE (AWD) SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
281
Driving on slippery surfaces with AWD vehicles
282
Basic operating principles
282
If your vehicle goes off the edge of the pavement
282
If your vehicle gets stuck
283
Emergency maneuvers
283
AWD systems (if equipped)
284
Sand
284
Mud and water
284
Driving on hilly or sloping terrain
285
Driving on snow and ice
286
Maintenance and modifications
287
DRIVING THROUGH WATER
287
Roadside Emergencies
288
ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
288
Vehicles sold in the U.S. : Getting roadside assistance
288
Vehicles sold in the U.S. : Using roadside assistance
288
Vehicles sold in Canada : Getting roadside assistance
289
Vehicles sold in Canada : Using roadside assistance
289
HAZARD FLASHER CONTROL
289
FUEL PUMP SHUT-OFF
289
FUSES AND RELAYS
290
Fuses
290
Standard fuse amperage rating and color
290
Passenger compartment fuse panel
291
Power distribution box
294
CHANGING THE TIRES
298
Dissimilar spare tire/wheel information
298
Stopping and securing the vehicle
300
Removing the spare tire and jack
300
Tire change procedure
301
Stowing the tire and jack
303
WHEEL LUG NUT TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
304
RUNNING OUT OF FUEL
305
JUMP STARTING
306
Preparing your vehicle
306
Connecting the jumper cables
307
Jump starting
307
Removing the jumper cables
308
WRECKER TOWING
309
Emergency towing
310
Customer Assistance
311
GETTING THE SERVICES YOU NEED
311
Away from home
311
Additional assistance
312
IN CALIFORNIA (U.S. ONLY)
313
THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU (BBB) AUTO LINE PROGRAM (U.S. ONLY)
314
UTILIZING THE MEDIATION/ARBITRATION PROGRAM (CANADA ONLY)
315
GETTING ASSISTANCE OUTSIDE THE U.S. AND CANADA
315
ORDERING ADDITIONAL OWNER’S LITERATURE
317
Obtaining a French Owner’s Guide
317
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS (U.S. ONLY)
317
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS (CANADA ONLY)
318
Cleaning
319
WASHING THE EXTERIOR
319
WAXING
320
PAINT CHIPS
320
ALUMINUM WHEELS AND WHEEL COVERS
320
ENGINE
320
PLASTIC (NON-PAINTED) EXTERIOR PARTS
322
WINDOWS AND WIPER BLADES
322
INSTRUMENT PANEL/INTERIOR TRIM AND CLUSTER LENS
323
INTERIOR
324
LEATHER SEATS (IF EQUIPPED)
325
UNDERBODY
325
FORD AND LINCOLN CAR CARE PRODUCTS
326
Maintenance and Specifications
327
SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS
327
PRECAUTIONS WHEN SERVICING YOUR VEHICLE
327
Working with the engine off
327
Working with the engine on
327
OPENING THE HOOD
328
IDENTIFYING COMPONENTS IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT
329
3.5L V6 engine
329
3.5L V6 EcoBoost™ engine
330
WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID
331
Checking and adding washer fluid for the liftgate
332
CHANGING THE WIPER BLADES
332
Changing rear window wiper blade
332
ENGINE OIL
333
Checking the engine oil
333
Adding engine oil
334
Engine oil and filter recommendations
335
Use SAE 5W-20 engine oil
335
Use SAE 5W-30 engine oil
336
BATTERY
337
ENGINE COOLANT
339
Checking engine coolant
339
Adding engine coolant
340
Recycled engine coolant
342
Coolant refill capacity
342
Severe climates
343
Engine fluid temperature management (EcoBoost™ engine only)
343
What you should know about fail-safe cooling
345
How fail-safe cooling works
345
When fail-safe mode is activated
345
FUEL FILTER
346
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT AUTOMOTIVE FUELS
346
Important safety precautions
346
Refueling
348
Easy Fuel? “no cap” fuel system
348
Choosing the right fuel
349
Octane recommendations
350
Fuel quality
350
Cleaner air
351
Running out of fuel
351
Refilling with a portable fuel container
351
ESSENTIALS OF GOOD FUEL ECONOMY
352
Measuring techniques
352
Filling the tank
352
Calculating fuel economy
353
Driving style — good driving and fuel economy habits
354
Habits
354
Maintenance
354
Conditions
355
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
355
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II)
356
Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing
357
POWER STEERING FLUID (EXCEPT ECOBOOST™ ENGINE)
358
BRAKE FLUID
359
TRANSMISSION FLUID
359
Checking automatic transmission fluid
359
Low fluid level
362
Correct fluid level
362
High fluid level
362
Adjusting automatic transmission fluid levels
363
AIR FILTER
364
Changing the air filter element
364
VEHICLE STORAGE
365
MOTORCRAFT PART NUMBERS
367
MAINTENANCE PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS AND CAPACITIES
368
ENGINE DATA
372
Engine drivebelt routing
372
IDENTIFYING YOUR VEHICLE
373
Safety Compliance Certification Label
373
Vehicle identification number (VIN)
374
TRANSMISSION CODE DESIGNATIONS
375
Accessories
376
FORD CUSTOM ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR VEHICLE
376
Exterior style
376
Interior style
376
Lifestyle
377
Peace of mind
377
Ford Extended Service Plan
379
FORD ESP EXTENDED SERVICE PLANS (U.S. ONLY)
379
FORD ESP EXTENDED SERVICE PLANS (CANADA ONLY)
382
Scheduled Maintenance
383
GENERAL MAINTENANCE INFORMATION
383
Why maintain your vehicle?
383
Protecting your investment
383
Oils, fluids and flushing
384
Genuine Ford parts and service
385
Convenience
385
Factory-trained technicians
385
Genuine Ford and Motorcraft? replacement parts
385
Value shopping for your vehicle’s maintenance needs
385
Owner Checks and Services
385
Multi-point inspection
387
NORMAL SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE AND LOG
389
Intelligent Oil Life Monitor™
389
Maintenance schedule log
392
SPECIAL OPERATING CONDITIONS
395
Special operating condition log
397
EXCEPTIONS
399
ENGINE COOLANT CHANGE RECORD
400
Engine coolant change log
400
Index
401
2012 Ford Flex Overview
Introduction
The 2012 Ford Flex is a versatile and stylish crossover SUV that seamlessly combines the space and utility of a minivan with the bold aesthetics of a traditional SUV. With its distinctive design and roomy interior, the Flex caters to families and adventure-seekers alike, offering ample cargo space and comfortable seating for up to seven passengers. This unique vehicle is perfect for those who value functionality without compromising on style.
Powertrains
The 2012 Ford Flex provides drivers with a choice between two powerful engine options. The standard engine is a capable 3.5-liter V6 that produces 287 horsepower and delivers a commendable fuel economy. For those seeking more thrill, an optional 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine generates an impressive 365 horsepower, providing exhilarating performance without sacrificing efficiency. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth shifts and responsive acceleration on all terrains.
Trims
The 2012 Flex is available in three distinctive trims: SE, SEL, and Limited. The base SE trim comes equipped with essential features such as keyless entry, air conditioning, and a basic audio system. The mid-level SEL enhances your driving experience with upgrades like a rearview camera, dual-zone climate control, and improved audio options. The top-of-the-line Limited trim offers luxurious additions, including premium leather upholstery, a powerful sound system, and advanced technology features.
Features
This model comes packed with a host of features designed for comfort, convenience, and safety. The spacious cabin includes versatile seating arrangements, ample storage solutions, and a user-friendly infotainment system. Optional features like navigation, rear-seat entertainment, and a panoramic sunroof elevate the driving experience. Additionally, the Flex is equipped with advanced safety technologies, ensuring peace of mind during every journey.
Owner's Manual
The Ford Flex owner's manual provides drivers with comprehensive guidance on maintaining the vehicle's performance and safety. It includes detailed information on routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and operational features. By following the instructions laid out in the manual, owners can ensure their Flex remains in optimal condition for years to come.
User manual download
The Ford Flex 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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