Starting the Engine. Starting the Gasoline Engine

This section describes everything about the starting behavior of the gasoline engine in the Ford Mustang VI Generation. The starting procedure is explained step by step, from the correct pedal position to handling the Intelligent Access key. The text also includes notes on starting problems, quick restarting, and automatic engine shut-off during extended idling. Measures for overriding this function are also included. Practical tips on avoiding errors and starting safely round off this section. This knowledge is essential for every Mustang driver to ensure reliable operation at all times.

When the engine starts, the idle speed increases to warm up the engine more quickly. If the idle speed does not return to normal automatically, have the vehicle inspected by an authorized dealer.

Note: The engine can crank for a total of 60 seconds (without starting) before the starting system is temporarily disabled. The 60 seconds do not have to be continuous. For example, if the engine is cranked three times for 20 seconds each without starting, the 60-second time limit has been reached.

A message in the information display notifies you that you have exceeded the cranking time. In this situation, you can try to start the engine again after 15 minutes at the earliest. After 15 minutes have elapsed, a time limit of 15 seconds applies to engine cranking. You must wait 60 minutes before you can crank the engine again for 60 seconds.

Before starting the engine, make sure that:

• All vehicle occupants have fastened their seat belts.
• Headlamps and electrical consumers are switched off.
• The parking brake is applied.
• Move the selector lever to Park (P) (automatic transmission) or to Neutral (manual transmission).

Note: Do not press the accelerator pedal.

Note: Your Intelligent Access key must be inside the vehicle in order to shift the transmission out of Park (P).

1. 1
   Fully depress the brake pedal.
2. 2
   Press the button.

The system does not work in the following cases:

• The key frequencies are overlapped by other transmitters.
• The key battery is discharged.

If the engine cannot be started, proceed as follows:

1. 1
   Remove the rubber cover (A) from the cup holder.
2. 2
   Insert the remote control into the spare slot (B); the buttons must face up and the key ring must point toward the front of the vehicle.
3. 3
   With the key in this position, depress the brake pedal (automatic transmission) or clutch pedal (manual transmission) and press the START button to switch on the ignition and start the vehicle.

Quick restart

The quick restart function allows the engine to be restarted within 20 seconds of being switched off, even if no valid key is present.

Within 20 seconds of switching off the engine, depress the brake pedal (automatic transmission) or clutch pedal (manual transmission) and press the button. After 20 seconds, the engine can no longer be started unless the key is inside the vehicle.

Once the engine has been started, it remains running until the start button is pressed, even if the system does not detect a valid key. After opening and closing a door while the engine is running, the system searches for a valid key. The engine cannot be restarted if the system does not detect a valid key within 20 seconds.

Starting problems

If the engine cannot be started after three attempts, wait 10 seconds and perform the following steps:

1. If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission, fully depress the brake pedal.

Automatic engine shut-off

Your vehicle features a function that automatically switches off the engine when it has been idling for an extended period.

The ignition is also switched off to save battery power. Before the engine is switched off, a message with a timer counting down from 30 seconds appears in the information display. If no action is taken within 30 seconds, the engine will be switched off. Another message appears in the information display informing you that the engine was switched off to save fuel. Start the vehicle in the normal way.

Overriding automatic engine shut-off

Note: The automatic engine shut-off function cannot be permanently deactivated. If you deactivate the function temporarily, it will be switched back on the next time the ignition is switched on.

You can cancel the engine shut-off process at any time before the 30-second timer expires, or reset the timer, by performing one of the following:

• You can reset the timer by interacting with the vehicle (e.g. by depressing the brake pedal or accelerator pedal).
• With the ignition switched on, you can switch off the automatic shut-off function at any time (but only for the current ignition cycle). To do so, use the information display. See Information Displays.
• While the countdown to engine shut-off is running, you will be prompted to press OK or RESET (depending on the version of your information display) to deactivate the function temporarily (only for the current ignition cycle).

Stopping the engine with the vehicle stationary

1. 1
   Move the selector lever to Park (P) (automatic transmission) or to Neutral (manual transmission).
2. 2
   Press the button once.
3. 3
   Apply the parking brake.

Note: This switches off the ignition and all circuits, warning lamps and displays.

Note: If the engine idles for 30 minutes, the ignition and engine switch off automatically.

Stopping the engine while driving

WARNING

Switching off the engine while driving results in loss of brake and steering power assistance. The steering does not lock, but greater steering effort is required.

When the ignition is switched off, other electrical circuits such as airbags, warning lamps and displays are also switched off. If the ignition is switched off accidentally, move the gear selector to Neutral (N) and restart the engine.

1. 1
   Move the selector lever to Neutral and bring the vehicle to a safe stop using the brakes.
2. 2
   Once the vehicle has come to a standstill, move the selector lever to Park (P) (automatic transmission) or Neutral (manual transmission).
3. 3
   Press and hold the button for one second, or press it three times within two seconds.
4. 4
   Apply the parking brake.

Protection against exhaust gases

WARNING

If exhaust gases are detected in the vehicle, have the vehicle inspected by an authorized dealer immediately. Never drive the vehicle if you can smell exhaust fumes. Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide.

This has very serious health effects.

Important information on ventilation

If you plan to park the vehicle and let the engine idle for an extended period, the following measures are recommended:

• Open the window at least 2.5 cm (1 in).
• Set the interior climate control to outside air.

The engine starting technology of the Ford Mustang (VI Gen, 2014–2023) ensures reliable and safe engine starting under all conditions. With features such as quick restart and automatic engine shutdown, the Ford Mustang 2014–2023 demonstrates its technical sophistication and energy efficiency.

The system places particular emphasis on safety instructions and clear procedures when starting the gasoline engine, which helps prevent incorrect operation. The Ford Mustang VI Generation thus demonstrates its high standards of responsibility and ease of use.

These starting technologies support the sporty character of the Ford Mustang (VI Gen, 2014–2023) while also making it a practical everyday vehicle with modern driver assistance features.