Howdy from AZ

[PapaRed]

Old retired couple loves to RV (30 years) and feel like the Maverick would make a great vehicle to tow behind our motorhome, replacing our Jeep Liberty.
We had no idea the Maverick was so popular, and so hard to find, so placed a request with a local Ford dealer to order one when and if Ford ever begins to accept orders. Will keep viewing this forum, and would appreciate any wisdom you "old heads" can provide.

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[rivermaverick]

Old retired couple loves to RV (30 years) and feel like the Maverick would make a great vehicle to tow behind our motorhome, replacing our Jeep Liberty.
We had no idea the Maverick was so popular, and so hard to find, so placed a request with a local Ford dealer to order one when and if Ford ever begins to accept orders. Will keep viewing this forum, and would appreciate any wisdom you "old heads" can provide.

Only the 2.5L hybrid can be flat towed - there is a procedure in the owners manual. Unfortunately that is the hardest to find, I've had a Lariat hybrid on order since November 2021, hopefully being built next month! XT/XLT are easier, I would have ordered an XT if it had a push button start.
Where abouts in AZ are you?

 

[PapaRed]

Yes, I found the tow procedure in the User Manual. I'm in Glendale, AZ. Don't think I will wait 12-18 months for a truck though.

 

[JBryant]

Glad you are aboard. While it is difficult to find a hybrid, it is not impossible, but you may have to either drive or fly out of state to pick one up. I bought one for my wife and flew from TX to Detroit. One thing you do need to be aware of is the mounting on the Maverick. If you use the Blue Ox, they will need to cut holes in the bumper to mount the tow hooks. If you use the other one, they will need to remove the lower shutter to install it and some people think it will void your warranty. I am getting ready to have my Lariat Hybrid converted so that I can flat tow it, just trying to decide which way to go. I am sure you will love the Maverick. I just got back from a 500+ mile trip, with nearly all highway miles and averaged 44 mpg.

 

[IGNIGNXKT]

Welcome, from another in AZ!

 

[PapaRed]

Thanks, Jesse! Bought a Lariat in San Diego, am waiting for it to be delivered. Talked to a reputable accessory dealer this morning with detailed focus on the cutting of the fascia. Was assured his techs knew what they were doing. As for another brand mentioned, it costs more, I am using a Blue Ox tow bar which would require costly adapters, so opted for the Blue Ox base plate.
I would like to have a fiberglass paintable bed cover, but haven't found anyone building one for the Maverick.

 

[JimParker256]

<< snip >>
If you use the Blue Ox, they will need to cut holes in the bumper to mount the tow hooks. If you use the other one, they will need to remove the lower shutter to install it and some people think it will void your warranty.
<< snip >>

I asked one person about whether removal of the two bottom shutters, which a required step in the Roadmaster baseplate installations. His response was that Ford had ordered dealers to remove four "blinds" (movable shutters) to comply with the Recall 22S47, so how could it possibly be a big deal? (If you're interested in the recall info, I've given some of the info about it below.)

My particular '22 Maverick Hybrid came from the factory AFTER the specified "build date" range included in the recall, so it was not subject to the recall, thus it did not have the recall work done by the dealer. On inspection, there are no missing shutters... I have no idea how Ford addressed the shutter issue for vehicles built after the last date in the recall. Someone "told me" (no substantiation at all) that Ford had changed the programming for the shutter system and deemed that adequate instead of removing the shutters. I have no clue if that is accurate or not.

For me, the idea of making this type of modification (removing a couple of adjustable shutters from the cooling system) is worrisome enough that I will probably go with the Blue Ox system (ugly though it may be) until and unless I see something in writing from Ford stating that the Roadster mods (removing the two bottom shutters) does NOT invalidate the warranty. I'm just not willing to take that type of risk - but that's my decision and doesn't have to align with yours...

Safety Recall 22S47:
Here's the pertinent wording from Ford's notice to dealers (bold emphasis added by me):

REASON FOR THIS SAFETY RECALL ​

Isolated engine manufacturing issues have resulted in 2.5L HEV/PHEV engine failures involving engine block or oil pan breach. The fluid dynamics induced by the under engine shield and Active Grille Shutter (AGS) system could increase the likelihood of engine oil and/or fuel vapor expelled during an engine block or oil pan breach accumulating near sources of ignition, primarily expected to be the exhaust system. Engine oil and/or fuel vapor that accumulates near an ignition source, may ignite resulting in an under hood fire, and increasing the risk of injury.​

SERVICE ACTION​

Before demonstrating or delivering any new in-stock vehicles involved in this recall, dealers are to modify the front under engine shield by creating additional drain holes and modify the AGS system by removing 4 blinds. This service must be performed on all affected vehicles at no charge to the vehicle owner.​

(Note - there were ZERO reported fires with Maverick Hybrids leading up to this recall. Ford did this in response to a class action suit that included a range of Ford Hybrid vehicles as potential class members. It was purely a preventative legal maneuver, and not something to actually concern potential Maverick Hybrid owners. Ford even stated that there was no reason to stop using the vehicles, nor to only park them outdoors.)

 

[PapaRed]

Interesting on the shutters. My Maverick is due to arrive on Wednesday. I will check the shutters though I'm not sure exactly where they are located. As for the tow bar base plate installation, I went with Blue Ox. It's scheduled for next Wednesday (5/3). Will post photos of the installation.

 

[PapaRed]

Ok, so the shutters get the engine up to temp for improved operation. Operating in Phoenix and the mountain west, I don't think I would need them (nor does my Cat engine in the motorhome). I'll check when I get the truck and check if they have been removed.

 

[JimParker256]

The shutters are clearly visible behind the grill, and in front of the radiator.

 

[Rockingchair]

They make errand vehicles here in the metro Pheonix area. In the summer the hybrid milage may drop due to the A/C being used 120% of the time.

 

[PapaRed]

Wish I could find one of the old style fiberglass deck lids instead of the tonneau covers. I just think a bed lid painted the truck would make for a great looking truck.

 

[JBryant]

I asked one person about whether removal of the two bottom shutters, which a required step in the Roadmaster baseplate installations. His response was that Ford had ordered dealers to remove four "blinds" (movable shutters) to comply with the Recall 22S47, so how could it possibly be a big deal? (If you're interested in the recall info, I've given some of the info about it below.)

My particular '22 Maverick Hybrid came from the factory AFTER the specified "build date" range included in the recall, so it was not subject to the recall, thus it did not have the recall work done by the dealer. On inspection, there are no missing shutters... I have no idea how Ford addressed the shutter issue for vehicles built after the last date in the recall. Someone "told me" (no substantiation at all) that Ford had changed the programming for the shutter system and deemed that adequate instead of removing the shutters. I have no clue if that is accurate or not.

For me, the idea of making this type of modification (removing a couple of adjustable shutters from the cooling system) is worrisome enough that I will probably go with the Blue Ox system (ugly though it may be) until and unless I see something in writing from Ford stating that the Roadster mods (removing the two bottom shutters) does NOT invalidate the warranty. I'm just not willing to take that type of risk - but that's my decision and doesn't have to align with yours...

Safety Recall 22S47:
Here's the pertinent wording from Ford's notice to dealers (bold emphasis added by me):

REASON FOR THIS SAFETY RECALL ​

Isolated engine manufacturing issues have resulted in 2.5L HEV/PHEV engine failures involving engine block or oil pan breach. The fluid dynamics induced by the under engine shield and Active Grille Shutter (AGS) system could increase the likelihood of engine oil and/or fuel vapor expelled during an engine block or oil pan breach accumulating near sources of ignition, primarily expected to be the exhaust system. Engine oil and/or fuel vapor that accumulates near an ignition source, may ignite resulting in an under hood fire, and increasing the risk of injury.​

SERVICE ACTION​

Before demonstrating or delivering any new in-stock vehicles involved in this recall, dealers are to modify the front under engine shield by creating additional drain holes and modify the AGS system by removing 4 blinds. This service must be performed on all affected vehicles at no charge to the vehicle owner.​

(Note - there were ZERO reported fires with Maverick Hybrids leading up to this recall. Ford did this in response to a class action suit that included a range of Ford Hybrid vehicles as potential class members. It was purely a preventative legal maneuver, and not something to actually concern potential Maverick Hybrid owners. Ford even stated that there was no reason to stop using the vehicles, nor to only park them outdoors.)

Jim, that is my thinking to a tee. Only think I am waiting on is to hear back from Demco. They make base plates for a lot of vehicles and actively looking for a Maverick so they can do the design. They offered to install one at no cost, but I am no where near Iowa. I think they must manufacture a lot of their own materials.

 

[JimParker256]

Jim, that is my thinking to a tee. Only think I am waiting on is to hear back from Demco. They make base plates for a lot of vehicles and actively looking for a Maverick so they can do the design. They offered to install one at no cost, but I am no where near Iowa. I think they must manufacture a lot of their own materials.

Dang! Wish I was close to Iowa - I'd let them use mine in a heartbeat!

 

[Donald]

I asked one person about whether removal of the two bottom shutters, which a required step in the Roadmaster baseplate installations. His response was that Ford had ordered dealers to remove four "blinds" (movable shutters) to comply with the Recall 22S47, so how could it possibly be a big deal? (If you're interested in the recall info, I've given some of the info about it below.)

My particular '22 Maverick Hybrid came from the factory AFTER the specified "build date" range included in the recall, so it was not subject to the recall, thus it did not have the recall work done by the dealer. On inspection, there are no missing shutters... I have no idea how Ford addressed the shutter issue for vehicles built after the last date in the recall. Someone "told me" (no substantiation at all) that Ford had changed the programming for the shutter system and deemed that adequate instead of removing the shutters. I have no clue if that is accurate or not.

For me, the idea of making this type of modification (removing a couple of adjustable shutters from the cooling system) is worrisome enough that I will probably go with the Blue Ox system (ugly though it may be) until and unless I see something in writing from Ford stating that the Roadster mods (removing the two bottom shutters) does NOT invalidate the warranty. I'm just not willing to take that type of risk - but that's my decision and doesn't have to align with yours...

Safety Recall 22S47:
Here's the pertinent wording from Ford's notice to dealers (bold emphasis added by me):

REASON FOR THIS SAFETY RECALL ​

Isolated engine manufacturing issues have resulted in 2.5L HEV/PHEV engine failures involving engine block or oil pan breach. The fluid dynamics induced by the under engine shield and Active Grille Shutter (AGS) system could increase the likelihood of engine oil and/or fuel vapor expelled during an engine block or oil pan breach accumulating near sources of ignition, primarily expected to be the exhaust system. Engine oil and/or fuel vapor that accumulates near an ignition source, may ignite resulting in an under hood fire, and increasing the risk of injury.​

SERVICE ACTION​

Before demonstrating or delivering any new in-stock vehicles involved in this recall, dealers are to modify the front under engine shield by creating additional drain holes and modify the AGS system by removing 4 blinds. This service must be performed on all affected vehicles at no charge to the vehicle owner.​

(Note - there were ZERO reported fires with Maverick Hybrids leading up to this recall. Ford did this in response to a class action suit that included a range of Ford Hybrid vehicles as potential class members. It was purely a preventative legal maneuver, and not something to actually concern potential Maverick Hybrid owners. Ford even stated that there was no reason to stop using the vehicles, nor to only park them outdoors.)

My 23 had the shutters removed from the dealer. Dealers can be fined up to $21,000 for selling without removing.

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