2012 Ford Flex Owner Guide 2nd Printing - Page 249

Driving STARTING Positions of the ignition 1. Off- locks the automatic transmission gearshift lever and allows key removal. This position also shuts the engine and all electrical accessories off without locking the steering wheel. To lock the steering wheel, remove the key then turn the steering wheel. Note: In order to switch off the engine while the vehicle is in motion, shift to neutral and use the brakes to bring the vehicle to a safe stop. After the vehicle has stopped, turn the engine off and shift into park. Then, turn the key to the accessory or off position. 2. Accessory- allows the electrical accessories such as the radio to operate while the engine is not running. This position also unlocks the steering wheel. 3. On- all electrical circuits operational. Warning lights illuminated. Key position when driving. 4. Start- cranks the engine. Release the key as soon as the engine starts. Note: Do not store the key in the ignition after the vehicle is turned off and you have left the vehicle. This could cause a drain on the battery. Starting your vehicle This system meets all Canadian interference-causing equipment standard requirements regulating the impulse electrical field strength of radio noise. Don't press the accelerator before or during starting. Only use the accelerator when you have difficulty starting the engine. For more information on starting the vehicle, refer to Starting the engine in this chapter. To avoid potential transmission damage at extremely cold temperatures (below -20°F [-30°C]), it is recommended that the vehicle be warmed up to normal operating temperature before driving at highway speeds above 50 mph (80 km/h). Normal operating temperature is normally reached after 10 minutes of moderate driving or idling. 249 2012 Flex (471) Owners Guide, 2nd Printing USA (fus)