Ford Focus Owners Manual: Starting a petrol engine - E85

For general information on starting a petrol engine. See Starting a petrol ngine.

Starting at low ambient temperatures

When the temperature is lower than -10°C (14°F) and the vehicle is filled with E85, an engine block heater should be used to facilitate starting. See Engine heater. Failure to do this will result in a non start.

If the temperature is expected to remain below -10°C (14°F), it is recommended that you increase the proportion of petrol in the tank by topping up with 95 octane unleaded petrol if the tank is not already full. About 10 litres (2.2 gallons) of petrol will reduce the proportion of E85 in a ¾ full tank from 85% to 70% and will considerably improve cold start capability.

If, at very low temperatures, the tank is filled with only E85 and there is no way to use an engine block heater, you may experience difficulties starting the engine.

If the engine fails to start, proceed as follows:

1. Fully depress the accelerator pedal.

2. Turn the ignition key to position III.

CAUTION:

Release the ignition key as soon as the engine has started.

3. Gradually release the accelerator pedal after 5 seconds of engine cranking or as the engine speed rises.

If the engine fails to start, repeat steps 1, 2 and 3, or connect an engine block heater for two hours before attempting another start.

During starting, the fuel injectors are turned off as long as the accelerator pedal is depressed. This can be used to drain excessive fuel from the intake manifold after several unsuccessful starting attempts.

If the battery has been disconnected or after the fuel type has been changed, the idle speed may be irregular. This will improve after 10 to 30 seconds.