2012 Ford Taurus Owner's Manual
Year:
2012
Make:
Ford
Model:
Taurus
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
4
Protecting the environment
5
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING
5
PERCHLORATE MATERIAL
5
Breaking-in your vehicle
5
SPECIAL NOTICES
6
New Vehicle Limited Warranty
6
Special instructions
6
DATA RECORDING
6
Service Data Recording
6
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
17
Message center
19
Info
19
System check and vehicle feature customization
21
System warnings
24
Entertainment Systems
32
Audio systems
32
AM/FM CD/MP3 satellite compatible sound system
32
Setting the clock
33
AM/FM Radio
33
RDS Radio
34
CD/MP3 Player
35
Satellite Radio (if equipped)
37
Sound Adjustments
40
Extra Features
41
Auxiliary input jack (Line in)
41
USB port (if equipped)
43
General audio information
44
Satellite radio information (if equipped)
47
Navigation system (if equipped)
50
SYNC? (if equipped)
50
Climate Controls
51
Manual heating and air conditioning system (if equipped)
51
Operating tips
52
Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control (if equipped)
54
Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control (navigation based – if equipped)
56
Touchscreen functions
58
Voice commands in climate mode
59
Operating tips
59
Rear window defroster
60
Cabin air filter
60
Lights
62
Headlamp Control
62
Autolamp control
62
Autolamps - programmable exit delay
62
High beams
63
Auto high beams (if equipped)
63
Flash-to-pass
66
Daytime running lamps (DRL) (if equipped)
66
PANEL DIMMER CONTROL
67
Aiming the headlamps
67
Vertical aim adjustment
67
TURN SIGNAL CONTROL
68
INTERIOR LAMPS
69
Front row map lamps
69
Ambient lighting (if equipped)
69
Bulb Replacement
70
Lamp assembly condensation
70
Using the right bulbs
70
Replacing interior bulbs
71
Replacing exterior bulbs
71
Replacing headlamp (low/high beam) bulbs
71
Replacing HID headlamp bulbs (if equipped)
72
Replacing front parking lamp/turn signal/sidemarker bulbs
72
Replacing rear brake/tail/turn and sidemarker lamp bulbs
73
Replacing backup lamp bulbs
73
Replacing high-mount brake lamp bulbs
74
Replacing license plate lamp bulbs
74
Replacing supplemental park lamp bulbs
74
Driver Controls
75
Multi-function lever
75
Windshield wiper rainlamp feature
76
Tilt/Telescope Steering Wheel
76
Illuminated visor mirror
77
Overhead console
77
Storage compartment
77
Electronic compass (if equipped)
78
Compass zone adjustment
78
Compass calibration adjustment
79
Center Console
80
Auxiliary Power Point (12V DC)
80
Power Windows
81
One-touch up or down
82
Global open windows (if equipped)
82
Bounce-Back (one-touch up or down windows only)
82
Security override
83
Window lock
83
Accessory delay
83
Interior mirror
83
Automatic dimming interior rear view mirror (if equipped)
83
Exterior Mirrors
84
Power side view mirrors
84
Heated outside mirrors (if equipped)
85
Fold-away mirrors
85
Blind spot mirrors (if equipped)
85
Power Adjustable Foot Pedals (if equipped)
85
Speed control
86
Using speed control
86
Setting speed control
86
Disengaging speed control
87
Resuming a set speed
87
Increasing speed while using speed control
87
Reducing speed while using speed control
87
Turning off speed control
87
ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL (ACC) (IF EQUIPPED)
88
Setting adaptive cruise control
89
Setting the gap distance
91
Disengaging adaptive cruise control
91
Overriding adaptive cruise control
91
Changing the set speed
92
Resuming the set speed
92
Low speed automatic cancellation
92
Hilly condition usage
93
Turning off cruise control
93
Detection issues
93
ACC not available
94
Blocked sensor
95
STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS (IF EQUIPPED)
96
Radio control features
96
Moon roof (if equipped)
97
Power rear sunshade (if equipped)
99
Universal garage door opener (if equipped)
99
HomeLink? Wireless Control System (if equipped)
99
Programming
100
Gate Operator & Canadian Programming
101
Operating the HomeLink? Wireless Control System
102
Erasing HomeLink? buttons
102
Reprogramming a single HomeLink? button
102
Positive Retention Floor Mat
103
Trunk release
104
Cargo Area Features
105
Cargo net (if equipped)
105
Locks and Security
106
Keys
106
Intelligent Access Key (IA key) (if equipped)
106
MyKey?
107
Power door locks
113
Smart unlocks
113
Smart unlocks for intelligent access keys (IA key) (if equipped)
113
Central unlocking/Two-stage unlocking for intelligent access keys (if equipped)
114
Autolock feature (if enabled)
114
Deactivating/activating autolock feature
115
Power door lock switch autolock enable/disable procedure
115
Autounlock feature (if enabled)
115
Deactivating/activating autounlock feature
116
Power door lock switch autounlock enable/disable procedure
116
Childproof door locks
117
Interior luggage compartment release
117
Remote entry system
119
Intelligent access (if equipped)
120
Unlocking the doors/two-stage unlock
121
Opening front windows and moon roof (if equipped)
121
Locking the doors
121
Car finder
122
Sounding a panic alarm
122
Opening the trunk
122
Memory feature (seat, mirrors and adjustable pedals) (if equipped)
122
Programming the memory feature to the transmitter
123
Deprogramming the memory feature from the transmitter
123
Replacing the battery
124
Replacing lost integrated keyhead transmitters (IKTs) or intelligent access keys (IA keys)
125
How to reprogram your integrated keyhead transmitters (IKTs) or intelligent access keys (IA keys)
125
Illuminated entry
125
Illuminated exit
126
Battery saver
126
Accessory mode battery saver for intelligent access keys (if equipped)
126
SecuriCode™ keyless entry system
127
Programming a personal entry code and keypad association to memory seats, mirrors and adjustable pedals (if equipped)
127
Erasing personal code
128
Anti-scan feature
128
Unlocking and locking the doors using keyless entry
128
Securilock? passive anti-theft system
129
Anti-theft indicator
130
Automatic arming
130
Automatic disarming
130
Replacement of integrated keyhead transmitters (IKT) or intelligent access keys
131
Programming spare keys
131
Perimeter alarm system (if equipped)
134
Seating and Safety Restraints
136
Front seats
136
Adjustable head restraints
136
Adjusting the front manual seat (if equipped)
139
Using the manual lumbar support (if equipped)
140
Adjusting the front power seat (if equipped)
141
Using the power lumbar support (if equipped)
143
Multi-contour Active Motion™ seat (if equipped)
143
Dual setting heated seats (if equipped)
144
Three-position heated and cooled seats (if equipped)
145
Heated seats
145
Cooled seats
146
Climate controlled seats air filter replacement (if equipped)
146
Memory seats/power mirrors/adjustable pedals (if equipped)
148
Easy entry/exit feature (if equipped)
149
Rear seats
149
Non-adjustable second-row outboard head restraints
149
Adjustable second row center head restraint
151
Split-folding rear seat
153
Seat-mounted cup holders and armrest storage compartment (if equipped)
154
Rear heated seats (if equipped)
155
Personal Safety System™
156
How does the Personal Safety System work?
156
Driver and passenger dual-stage airbag supplemental restraints
157
Front crash severity sensor
157
Driver’s seat position sensor
157
Front passenger sensing system
157
Front safety belt usage sensors
158
Front safety belt pretensioners
158
Front safety belt energy management retractors
158
Determining if the Personal Safety System is operational
158
Safety Belt System
159
Combination lap and shoulder belts
160
Restraint of pregnant women
161
Safety belt locking modes
161
Energy management feature — front outboard
163
Safety belt pretensioner
163
Safety belt extension assembly
164
Safety belt height adjustment
164
Safety belt warning light and indicator chime
165
Conditions of operation
165
Belt-Minder?
165
Deactivating/activating the Belt-Minder? feature
168
AIRBAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)
169
Important supplemental restraint system precautions
170
Children and airbags
171
How does the airbag supplemental restraint system work?
172
Front passenger sensing system
173
Determining if the system is operational
178
Seat-mounted side airbag system
178
How does the side airbag system work?
179
Safety Canopy? System
180
How does the Safety Canopy? System work?
181
Determining if the system is operational
183
SOS Post-Crash Alert System™
183
Disposal of airbags and airbag equipped vehicles
183
Safety restraints for children
184
Important child restraint precautions
184
Recommendations for attaching child safety restraints for children
186
Transporting children
187
Safety seats for children
188
Infant and/or toddler seats
188
Installing child safety seats with combination lap and shoulder belts
189
Attaching child safety seats with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) attachments
193
Combining safety belt and LATCH lower anchors for attaching child safety seats
194
Attaching child safety seats with tether straps
195
Child booster seats
196
When children should use booster seats
197
Types of booster seats
198
The importance of shoulder belts
199
Child restraint and safety belt maintenance
200
Tires, Wheels and Loading
201
Information about uniform tire quality grading
201
Treadwear
201
Traction AA A B C
201
Temperature A B C
202
Tires
202
Glossary of Tire Terminology
202
Inflating your tires
203
Tire care
206
Inspecting your tires and wheel valve stems
206
Tire wear
206
Damage
207
U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN)
207
Tire Replacement Requirements
208
Safety Practices
209
Highway hazards
209
Tire and Wheel Alignment
210
Tire rotation
210
Information Contained on the Tire Sidewall
211
Information on “P” type tires
212
Additional information contained on the tire sidewall for “LT” type tires
215
Information on “T” type tires
216
Location of the tire label
216
Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
217
Changing Tires with a TPMS
218
Understanding your tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
218
When your temporary spare tire is installed
218
When you believe your system is not operating properly
219
When inflating your tires
220
How temperature affects your tire pressure
220
Snow tires and chains
221
Summer tires
222
Vehicle loading – with and without a trailer
222
Trailer towing
229
Preparing to tow
230
Hitches
230
Safety chains
230
Trailer brakes
230
Trailer Lamps
231
Driving while you tow
231
Trailer towing tips
232
Recreational towing
232
Driving
234
Starting
234
Positions of the ignition (if equipped)
234
Starting your vehicle
234
Important safety precautions
235
Starting the engine
236
Push button start system (if equipped)
237
Guarding Against Exhaust Fumes
239
Important Ventilating Information
240
Engine block heater (if equipped)
240
Brakes
242
Four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS)
242
Using ABS
242
Brake assist
242
ABS warning lamp
243
Brake over accelerator
243
Parking brake
243
AdvanceTrac? stability enhancement system
244
Steering
249
Brake-shift interlock
250
Automatic transmission operation
252
Automatic transmission adaptive learning
252
Understanding the gearshift positions of the 6–speed automatic transmission with transmission control switch (if equipped)
252
Understanding the gearshift positions of the 6–speed with SelectShift Automatic™ transmission (SST) (if equipped)
254
Paddle shifters
256
Reverse sensing system (if equipped)
257
Rearview camera system (if equipped)
259
Collision warning system (if equipped)
261
Blind spot mirrors (if equipped)
265
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS?) with Cross Traffic Alert (CTA) (if equipped)
266
All-wheel drive (AWD) system (if equipped)
272
Driving on slippery surfaces with AWD 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
AWD Systems (if equipped)
275
Sand
275
Mud and water
275
Driving on hilly or sloping terrain
276
Driving on snow and ice
277
Maintenance and modifications
278
Driving through water
278
Roadside Emergencies
279
ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
279
Vehicles sold in the U.S. : Getting roadside assistance
279
Vehicles sold in the U.S. : Using roadside assistance
279
Vehicles sold in Canada : Getting roadside assistance
280
Vehicles sold in Canada : Using roadside assistance
280
Hazard flasher control
280
Fuel Pump Shut-off
281
Fuses and relays
281
Fuses
281
Standard fuse amperage rating and color
282
Passenger compartment fuse panel
283
Power distribution box
286
Changing the tires
289
Dissimilar Spare Tire/Wheel Information
290
Stopping and securing the vehicle
292
Removing the spare tire and jack
292
Tire change procedure
292
Stowing the tire and jack
295
Temporary Mobility Kit (If Equipped)
296
General information
297
Tips for use of the Temporary Mobility Kit
298
What to do when a Tire Is Punctured
299
First stage: Reinflating the tire with sealing compound and air
299
Second Stage: Checking Tire Pressure
301
What to do after the Tire has been Sealed
302
Wheel Lug Nut Torque Specifications
305
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
321
3.5L V6 engine
321
3.5L V6 SHO engine
322
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
325
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
329
3.5L V6 SHO engine
330
Windshield washer fluid
331
Changing the wiper blades
332
Engine oil
332
Checking the engine oil
332
Adding engine oil
334
Engine oil and filter recommendations
334
Use SAE 5W-20 engine oil
334
Use SAE 5W-30 engine oil
335
Battery
336
Engine coolant
338
Checking engine coolant
338
Adding engine coolant
339
Recycled engine coolant
341
Coolant refill capacity
341
Severe climates
342
What you should know about fail-safe cooling
342
How fail-safe cooling works
342
When fail-safe mode is activated
343
Fuel Filter
344
What you should know about automotive fuels
344
Important safety precautions
344
Refueling
345
Easy Fuel? “no cap” fuel system
346
Choosing the right fuel
347
Octane recommendations
347
Fuel quality
348
Cleaner air
348
Running out of fuel
348
Refilling with a portable fuel container
349
Essentials of good fuel economy
350
Measuring techniques
350
Filling the tank
350
Calculating fuel economy
351
Driving style — good driving and fuel economy habits
351
Habits
352
Maintenance
352
Conditions
352
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
353
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II)
354
Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing
355
Power steering fluid (except SHO engine)
356
Brake fluid
356
Transmission fluid
357
Checking automatic transmission fluid
357
Low fluid level
359
Correct fluid level
360
High fluid level
360
Adjusting automatic transmission fluid levels
360
Air filter
361
Changing the air filter element
362
Vehicle storage
363
Motorcraft part numbers
366
Maintenance product specifications and capacities
367
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
376
Peace of mind
377
Ford Extended Service Plan
378
FORD ESP EXTENDED SERVICE PLANS (U.S. ONLY)
378
FORD ESP EXTENDED SERVICE PLANS (CANADA ONLY)
381
Scheduled Maintenance
382
GENERAL MAINTENANCE INFORMATION
382
Why maintain your vehicle?
382
Protecting Your Investment
382
Oils, Fluids and Flushing
383
Genuine Ford parts and service
384
Convenience
384
Factory-trained technicians
384
Genuine Ford and Motorcraft? replacement parts
384
Value shopping for your vehicle’s maintenance needs
384
Owner Checks and Services
385
Multi-Point Inspection
386
NORMAL SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE AND LOG
388
Intelligent Oil Life Monitor™
388
Maintenance Schedule Log
391
SPECIAL OPERATING CONDITIONS
394
Special Operating Condition Log
396
EXCEPTIONS
398
ENGINE COOLANT CHANGE RECORD
399
Engine Coolant Change Log
399
Index
400
2012 Ford Taurus Overview
Introduction
The 2012 Ford Taurus is a full-size sedan that embodies a harmonious blend of style, performance, and advanced technology. With its bold exterior design and spacious interior, the Taurus stands out in a crowded market, appealing to those who crave comfort without sacrificing power. Ideal for families and professionals alike, this model offers an understated elegance complemented by a range of features that enhance both driving pleasure and everyday practicality.
Powertrains
The 2012 Ford Taurus is available with two distinguished powertrains. The base model is equipped with a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers an impressive 263 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque, providing a smooth yet powerful driving experience. For those seeking enhanced performance, the range-topping Taurus SHO comes with a turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, yielding 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, paired with an intelligent all-wheel-drive system for superior handling and traction.
Trims
The Taurus is offered in multiple trims, including the SE, SEL, Limited, and SHO, allowing buyers to choose according to their preferences and budget. The SE boasts essential features such as keyless entry and full power accessories, while the SEL adds advanced technology like the Ford Sync infotainment system. The Limited trim elevates luxury with leather upholstery and premium audio, and the SHO delivers a sport-tuned suspension and unique styling enhancements, catering to enthusiasts.
Features
With a focus on comfort and convenience, the 2012 Taurus is loaded with features that enhance the driving experience. Standard offerings include dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, and a user-friendly touchscreen interface. Higher trims introduce luxurious additions such as heated and cooled front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced safety technologies including adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring, ensuring peace of mind on every journey.
Owners Manual
The 2012 Ford Taurus comes with a comprehensive owner's manual that provides valuable information for new owners. This manual includes detailed sections on vehicle operation, maintenance schedules, and troubleshooting tips, ensuring you make the most of your vehicle's features. It serves as an essential resource to maximize the Taurus's performance and longevity, guiding users through the full range of capabilities and care instructions that come with this sophisticated sedan.
User manual download
The Ford Taurus 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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