FORD 2013 Escape v.2 - Manual (Page 154)

PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION
This system is a proactive system. It has
the ability to anticipate wheel slip and
transfer torque to the rear wheels before
slip occurs. Even when wheel slip is not
present, the system is continuously making
adjustments to the torque distribution, in
an attempt to improve straight line and
cornering behavior, both on and off road.
The system automatically turns on every
time you switch the ignition on.
All components of the system are sealed
and do not require maintenance.
USING FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE
Note: The 4WD temporarily disabled
message will be displayed if the 4WD
system has overheated and defaulted to
front-wheel drive. This condition may occur
if the vehicle is operated in extreme high
load conditions or with excessive wheel slip,
such as deep sand. To resume normal 4WD
function as soon as possible, stop the
vehicle in a safe location and turn off the
engine. The 4WD restored message will be
displayed for approximately five seconds
after the system cools and normal 4WD
function returns.
Note: The Intelligent 4WD system gives
your vehicle some limited off-road
capabilities. Operating your vehicle in
conditions other than moderate sand, snow,
mud or rough roads could subject it to
excessive stress which might result in
damage. This damage is not covered under
your warranty.
Note: When a 4WD system fault is present,
the warning 4WD malfunction Service
required will display in the information
display. The 4WD system is not functioning
correctly and defaulted to front-wheel drive.
When this warning is displayed, have your
vehicle serviced at an authorized dealer.
E142669
You will be able to see the power
distribution between the front and rear
wheels represented by an icon in your
information display. More power to either
front or rear wheels will be displayed by
more area filled in.
Your vehicle may be equipped with a
full-time four-wheel drive (4WD) system.
The 4WD system is a proactive system,
meaning it not only responds to wheel slip
between the front and rear wheels but also
has the ability to anticipate wheel slip and
transfer torque to the rear wheels before
slip occurs. Even when no wheel slip is
present, the Intelligent 4WD system is
continuously making adjustments to the
torque distribution, in an attempt to
improve the vehicle’s straight line and
cornering behavior, both on and off road.
The system is active all the time and
requires no input from the operator.
All components of the Intelligent 4WD
system are sealed for life and require no
maintenance.
151
Four-Wheel Drive
(If Equipped)