2014 Ford Fusion Energi Owner Manual Printing 1 - Page 268

Vehicle Care VEHICLE STORAGE If you plan on storing your vehicle for an extended period of time (30 days or more), read the following maintenance recommendations to make sure your vehicle stays in good operating condition. All motor vehicles and their components were engineered and tested for reliable, regular driving. Long term storage under various conditions may lead to component degradation or failure unless specific precautions are taken to preserve the components. Engine • The engine oil and filter should be changed prior to storage, as used engine oil contain contaminates that may cause engine damage. Start the engine every 15 days. Run at fast idle until it reaches normal operating temperature With your foot on the brake, shift through all the gears while the engine is running. • • Fuel system • Fill the fuel tank with high-quality fuel until the first automatic shutoff of the fuel pump nozzle. General • • • Store all vehicles in a dry, ventilated place. Protect from sunlight, if possible. If vehicles are stored outside, they require regular maintenance to protect against rust and damage. Body • Wash your vehicle thoroughly to remove dirt, grease, oil, tar or mud from exterior surfaces, rear-wheel housing and underside of front fenders. Periodically wash your vehicle stored in exposed locations. Touch-up exposed or primed metal to prevent rust. Cover chrome and stainless steel parts with a thick coat of auto wax to prevent discoloration. Re-wax as necessary when your vehicle is washed. Lubricate all hood, door and trunk lid hinges, and latches with a light grade oil. Cover interior trim to prevent fading. Keep all rubber parts free from oil and solvents. Note: During extended periods of vehicle storage (30 days or more), fuel may deteriorate due to oxidation. Add a quality gas stabilizer product to your vehicle's fuel system whenever actual or expected storage periods exceed 30 days. Follow the instructions on the additive label. your vehicle should then be operated at idle speed to circulate the additive throughout the fuel system. Cooling system • • Protect against freezing temperatures. When removing your vehicle from storage, check coolant fluid level. Confirm there are no cooling system leaks, and fluid is at the recommended level. • • • Battery • • Check and recharge as necessary. Keep connections clean. If storing your vehicle for more than 30 days without recharging the battery, it may be advisable to disconnect the battery cables to ensure battery charge is maintained for quick starting. • • • 265