Trailer lamps, Before towing a trailer, When towing a trailer – FORD 2015 Flex User Manual

Page 263: 262 towing

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Trailer Lamps

WARNING: Never connect any trailer lamp wiring to the
vehicle’s tail lamp wiring; this may damage the electrical system

resulting in a fire. Contact an authorized dealer as soon as possible for
assistance in proper trailer tow wiring installation. Additional electrical
equipment may be required.

Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure all running
lights, brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights are working.

Before Towing a Trailer

Practice turning, stopping and backing up to get the feel of your
vehicle-trailer combination before starting on a trip. When turning, make
wider turns so the trailer wheels clear curbs and other obstacles.

When Towing a Trailer
• Do not drive faster than 70 mph (113 km/h) during the first 500 miles

(800 kilometers).

• Do not make full-throttle starts.

• Check your hitch, electrical connections and trailer wheel lug nuts

thoroughly after you have traveled 50 miles (80 kilometers).

• When stopped in congested or heavy traffic during hot weather, place

the gearshift in position P to aid engine and transmission cooling and
to help air conditioning performance.

• Turn off the speed control with heavy loads or in hilly terrain. The

speed control may turn off automatically when you are towing on
long, steep grades.

• Shift to a lower gear when driving down a long or steep hill. Do not

apply the brakes continuously, as they may overheat and become less
effective.

• If your transmission is equipped with a Grade Assist or Tow/Haul

feature, use this feature when towing. This provides engine braking
and helps eliminate excessive transmission shifting for optimum fuel
economy and transmission cooling.

• Allow more distance for stopping with a trailer attached. Anticipate

stops and brake gradually.

262

Towing

2015 Flex (471)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing, October 2014
USA
(fus)

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