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Unique driving characteristics – FORD 2013 Fusion Hybrid v.2 User Manual

Page 145

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Frequently asked questions

Answer

Question

The high voltage battery is electrically isol-

ated from the rest of the vehicle when the

key is off. When the key is turned to on, high

voltage contactors inside the battery are

closed to make the electricity available to

the motor/generator and enable the vehicle

to drive. The clicks are the sound of these

contactors as they close and open during

start up and shut down.

What are the series of clicks from the cargo
area when I first turn the key in the ignition?

The vehicle's computer will determine if an
engine start is required at key-on. Silent key

start will start the engine if it is necessary
for cabin heating, windshield defrost, or if

the outside temperature is low. (For Fusion

Energi vehicles, the engine may not be

required to operate these functions.)

Why does the engine sometimes start at

key-on?

There are several reasons the engine stays

on for an extended amount of time when

it is first started. One common reason is to

ensure that the emissions components are

warm enough to minimize tailpipe emis-

sions. As the climate gets cooler, this

engine-on time is extended.

Why does it take a long time before the

engine shuts down?

The engine is required to turn on above this

speed to protect the transmission hard-

ware. (For Fusion Energi vehicles, you can

travel up to 85 mph [137 km/h] in EV mode.

Why does my engine never shut down

above 60 mph (96 km/h)

In order to ensure that the climate control

system can begin heating the cabin or

defrosting the windshield as soon as a

driver requests it, the engine coolant

temperature has to be kept sufficiently hot.

Keeping the engine on is required to main-

tain the correct coolant temperature.

Why does my engine stay on when it is

extremely cold outside?

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Unique Driving Characteristics