Service AdvanceTrac – What Does This Mean?

The Service AdvanceTrac light on any Ford is relatively easy to fix. By lowering power or applying brakes to specific wheels, Ford’s AdvanceTrac system prevents oversteering and understeering. Electronic sensors communicate with the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) on steering performance and stability in bad weather.

AdvanceTrac does an excellent job of preventing accidents when it’s working properly, especially in wet weather. However, as with any modern traction control system, issues might arise that prevent it from functioning properly. In this article, we’ll look at what an AdvanceTrac message means and how to fix it in your Ford.

• What is AdvanceTrac?
• Mechanism
• Components
• Causes
• Cost
• Final Verdict

What Do You Mean By AdvanceTrac?

The roads become incredibly slick when the winter season arrives due to ice buildup, and driving on such slippery terrain is a challenging endeavor. A slight lack of control can cause you to lose control of your vehicle thoroughly.

Ford AdvanceTrac is a technology designed to help drivers navigate through the most difficult driving conditions. It’s an electrical stability system that assists the driver in navigating difficult terrains such as ice, snow, gravel, and dry pavement.

The AdvanceTrac system in your Ford is designed to improve balance and traction. The increased friction will enhance the vehicle’s stopping ability, making driving on slick surfaces much safer.

What Is The Mechanism Behind It?

The technology activates tiny gyroscopic sensors, which take 150 readings of your vehicle per second. If any oversteering, understeering, or wheel slippage is identified based on these data, the technology will apply the proper amount of braking pressure to control the vehicle. The pressure is provided to one or more wheels, causing the engine to slow down to keep the driver on track dramatically.

There is no need to activate AdvanceTrac technology. It detects even the tiniest readings of the vehicle’s movement because it is already installed in your car. When driving in bad weather, visibility is drastically reduced, causing the driver to lose attention on the road.

The AdvanceTrac system detects even the tiniest amount of instability and tunes your vehicle to the appropriate power. All of this occurs before you even consider using the brakes manually. AdvanceTrac-equipped cars come with a few extra benefits.

• Trailer Sway Control assists the vehicle in providing protection and strength to trailers being towed.
• Traction Control and Intelligent 4 Wheel Drive pay special attention to slick surfaces and adapt the powertrain and brake systems to prevent the vehicle from sliding off during acceleration.
• During ascent and descent, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control assist the car in utilizing the appropriate torque.

In terms of safety and driver aid, AdvanceTrac technology is a game-changer. These characteristics will undoubtedly come in handy for any motorist who wants to enjoy stress-free drives on difficult terrains.

What Are AdvanceTrac’s Components?

The AdvanceTrac system requires some components, including:

(a) Electronic sensors that provide information about rotational speed and vehicle motion to the PCM.

(b) Anti-lock brakes (ABS) to prevent over-steering, under-steering, and brake locking.

(c) A traction control system that determines the proper braking pressure to apply to avoid sliding.

AdvanceTrac with RSC (roll stability control) keeps an eye on the possibility of a vehicle rolling over. It functions similarly to AdvanceTrac in that it reduces power to prevent rollover while maintaining all four wheels on the ground.

Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

ABS is a safety feature that can be found on both planes and cars. Its light is usually yellow, amber, or orange and illuminates for a few seconds each time you start your vehicle’s engine as part of the system check. Electronic Stability Control, which prevents wheel lock while braking and alters the front-to-rear brake balance, is mandated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

When the ABS senses an uncontrollable slide, it gives the driver control of the steering. In this anti-skid feature, wheel-mounted sensors monitor the rate at which the wheels turn. It will interpret a lock-up or a likely source of steering control loss if it detects one wheel turning slower than the others when braking.

ABS would intervene right away by slamming the brakes on the outlier wheel, allowing it to spin, and handing control of braking and steering back to the driver.

Traction Control System

Traction Control is a system that checks your car’s balance and steering efficiency. It remembers how your car gripped the road and moved across its surface in the past.

If it identifies anything outside of the typical patterns based on the past data, it proactively finds and remedies any mistakes. As a result, ABS became required, and it is today a crucial part of vehicle safety.

Traction Control, like ABS, detects when a wheel loses traction using wheel-speed sensors. It activates a hydraulic modulator, which slows or stops the wheel from spinning. This feature activates in snowy or icy conditions when the slick surface causes one or more of your vehicle’s drive wheels to spin.

The Traction Control System collaborates with the Anti-lock Braking System and detects tire slip during acceleration using the same wheel-speed sensors.

Is It Possible For Me To Drive With The Service AdvanceTrac Light?

Even if your car’s Service AdvanceTrac light is activated, you can still drive it. Just make sure you adjust your vehicle while the light is on, and you prepare to have it repaired. This is important in order to lessen the chance of your car losing traction or control.

What Triggers The Service AdvanceTrac Light To Turn On?

Electronic sensors in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) collects information on the rotational speed of each wheel, the vehicle’s horizontal motion, and its vertical motion from electronic sensors. If the dashboard’s “Service AdvanceTrac” warning indicator light illuminates, it could mean one of the numerous things.

1. Failure Of The ABS Module

The most basic, yet most prevalent, reason for light to illuminate. It’s possible that the ABS controller has simply stopped working. A brake system issue, like an unresponsive brake pedal, could have triggered the AdvanceTrac Light. It will occur because the ABS and Traction Control systems utilize the same control module and car components.

2. Blown Fuse

Your ABS light may appear due to a blown fuse or a broken wire between the controller and the system sensors. The ABS light appears when your car’s computer detects a problem.

When a fuse blows, the PCM recognizes the signal and illuminates the ABS and Check Engine lights to warn you that there is an issue. If this occurs, get your car scanned for codes to help you figure out what’s causing the problem.

3. Computer Related Problems

By taking over the AdvanceTrac system, your vehicle’s central computer system plays an integral part in its proper operation. So, if your AdvanceTrac Light comes on and there is no external source affecting the Traction Control System, the computer system is most likely malfunctioning. The central computer, or PCM, can suffer from malfunctions or need to be reprogrammed to fix problems with its existing programming.

4. Tire Pressure Is Too Low

Sensors in your car monitor wheel speed and send data to the ABS and Traction Control systems on a regular basis. The ECU detects an unexpected speed when any of your tires have low tire pressure. It may give false or faulty data to the ABS or Traction Control, causing them to trigger their warning lights mistakenly.

5. A Steering Angle Sensor That Isn’t Working

The steering angle sensor is positioned inside the steering column and is in charge of accurately measuring the steering wheel’s angle, position, and rate of return. Let’s say the wiring between the Traction Control System computer and the wheel malfunctions. In that case, the computer will fail to compute and interpret information appropriately, causing the Traction Control Light to illuminate.

6. A Faulty Wheel Speed Sensor

The ECU recognizes an inaccurate measurement and activates the ABS light when your wheel speed sensor fails. Make sure you don’t have any low brake fluid levels, your speed sensor isn’t damaged or dirty, and all of your tires are in good condition if you suspect this is the cause of your ABS light going on.

Otherwise, you’ll have this problem, and your ABS light will most likely turn on. Check for codes in your car’s brake control module to assist you to figure out what’s wrong if your tires and braking fluid are in good shape. If you don’t have access to a scan tool, get your vehicle scanned by a skilled mechanic.

7. Brake Fluid In Low Levels

If your brake fluid level is low, your vehicle may drive differently. As a result, the braking system in your vehicle may feel spongy or squishy, making it longer to come to a complete stop. In addition to the ABS light, other system indicators are likely to emerge. Using the correct fluid type for your four-wheeler is one way to avoid this.

If you’ve already done so and your brake fluid readings are still low, look for any leaks in the entire braking and ABS systems. If you find any, make sure to deal with them right away because they could be quite dangerous if left unattended.

8. Defective Steering Rack

One of the most vital components of your car is the steering rack, which receives high-pressure hydraulic fluid and allows drivers to steer the wheel with ease. If this fails, drivers will have difficulties managing the vehicle, especially on rocky terrain. If the Service AdvanceTrac light illuminates, despite its rarity, this is one place where car owners should examine.

9. Improper Wheel Alignment

In icy conditions, if your vehicle has had too many collisions with curbs and potholes, the rotation of your wheels can become erratic. When this happens, the wheels with insufficient pressure will be subjected to ABS or Traction Control.

Service AdvanceTrac warning light will appear and remain illuminated until the problem is remedied if something prevents these systems from working. The light will automatically reset if the problem is only temporary. Otherwise, it will be an indication of a worse problem.

10. Pump And Valve Faults

This pump-and-valve system cooperates with your vehicle’s wheel-speed sensor. The anti-lock mechanism is messed up when this system malfunctions because the wrong amount of braking fluid pressure is applied to each wheel. When traditional brakes engage, a Service AdvanceTrac warning light illuminates, indicating that your vehicle has lost braking fluid or has worn-out brakes. Either root problem necessitates quick attention and, in certain cases, repair work.

11. Debris And Dirt

Salty roads and dusty areas jam up your four-wheeler’s traction control system and sensors, preventing it from working properly. The Service AdvanceTrac warning light activates and remains illuminated as a result.

Cleaning it yourself or having it done by a carwash is the only way to get the Service AdvanceTrac light to go away and the system to work again. If cleaning does not aid in solving the problem, see a mechanic or a parts store.

12. Limp Mode

The limp mode takes in when it senses anomalous readings or a faulty electrical component or mechanical operation.

The warning lights on your dashboard, including the ABS and Traction Control lights, illuminate when these anomalies occur… Whereas extras are turned off or decreased, and transmission, speed, and RPM are limited.

13. Battery Voltage Is Low

Because of a weak or low-voltage battery, other warning lights, such as the ABS and Traction Control lights, may switch on by accident. When the alternator in your car fails, the battery loses charge, and the car loses all power.

Since both the ABS and the Traction Control System are powered by the ECU, a sudden loss of power may cause both systems to send false signals, causing their respective warning lights to illuminate.

14. Traction Control Is Turned Off

One of many things that could happen, you turned off Traction Control on purpose since you don’t drive in slippery conditions regularly, you’re stuck in deep mud or snow. You either didn’t need Traction Control or did so unintentionally. The warning light will activate in any circumstance if Traction Control is disengaged.

If you turn off the warning light on purpose, you shouldn’t be surprised if it comes back on. If this fails, consult your service handbook for instructions on how to turn it back on, or get professional help.

Warning From Service AdvanceTrac

In the event of a loss of traction, steering angle issues, a malfunction of the traction safety feature, if the vehicle is hit from behind, or a fault in the wheel-speed or rotational-speed sensor, a Service AdvanceTrac alert may appear. When the sensors identify any of the above problems, the service light illuminates and remains illuminated until the problem is fixed. Sensor failures can be detected using a variety of scanners, allowing the problem to be identified.

How Can I Turn AdvanceTrac Off?

However, suppose the car is stuck in the snow, and the traction control system prevents the wheels from spinning entirely. In that case, we can disable various AdvanceTrac features, allowing the wheels to spin. As a result, we will be able to use or retain the engine’s full power.

The traction control system can be disabled by pressing the TCS OFF button on the stability control switch. Only the ESC will be disabled; the ABS and engine functions will not be affected.

To reactivate AdvanceTrac functions, press the switch or restart the engine. It is preferable to make all of the system’s features operational to ensure road safety.

How Can I Fix The Service AdvanceTrac?

The Service AdvanceTrac messages that appear can be handled to restore full functionality. To begin, identify the problem that is causing the warning message to flash. Service AdvanceTrac messages can be caused by various factors, the most prevalent of which being weak wiring.

Examine the electrical connection found inside the vehicle above the brake pedal to determine the source of the problem. To tighten the plugs, we can either pull them back and forth or remove the wiring and reattach the plugs, making sure they are securely in place. Check to see if the service notification appears after starting the car.

Using The FORScan Software And An OBDII Scanner

If tightening the wiring didn’t fix the problem, an OBD2 scanner and diagnostic software called FORScan can be used to figure out what’s wrong. The most important benefit of using the software is that it accurately diagnoses and is completely free. To use the scanner, connect it to the car’s OBD port and switch it on.

The instrument will scan all of the vehicle’s systems and send or provide error messages or codes. Each code’s meaning will be explained in the manual. FORScan software is tailored to Ford, Lincoln, and Mazda vehicles. It displays codes that OBD scanners are unable to see. It can perform diagnostic procedures and reset problem codes.

Because it is directly related to Service AdvanceTrac, the codes can identify problems with ABS modules caused by a simple damaged wire or connection. If the code indicates that an ABS circuit is open, the problem can be fixed by replacing or soldering the cables.

If the traction control system is working properly, the problem is caused by a burned fuse or low gasoline, replacing the fuse will stop the Service AdvanceTrac message from being shown.

Without the assistance of a specialist, there are various ways to repair the Service AdvanceTrac. If the battery has to be charged or replaced, the fuse box should be checked, as previously mentioned.

If the fuse is not broken, check and replace the three bolts (two larger bolts at the top and one smaller one at the bottom). Alternatively, you can fix the problem by replacing all fuses, batteries, and nuts in the box.

How To Reset Service AdvanceTrac

Another option is to reset or modify the soft codes, which may assist in resolving the issue. Turn on the ignition and, while it’s running, open the deck of your car and unhook the negative terminal of the battery, leaving it disconnected for 5 minutes.

It should be noted that the battery must be disconnected while the ignition is still turned on. Otherwise, the codes will not be reset if the battery is disconnected while the ignition is turned off; instead, the saved codes will constantly be shown.

If a problem with soft codes existed, the issue might have been remedied, and the Service AdvanceTrac light will be turned off. If there is a problem with electric sensors, they must be repaired by a specialist.

Turning the key in an anticlockwise manner approximately three times every two seconds is a simple method for a first-generation Ford Fusion. It enables us to resolve the problem without having to open the dash. The AdvanceTrac technology is most effective in areas where there is a lot of snow, slick terrain, or extreme weather to keep the vehicle stable.

Is Changing Or Repairing the AdvanceTrac Switch Too Expensive?

The maximum price of the switch, fuse, or other essential items is around ($40-$42); hence, you can repair it for roughly ($80-$90). It is not expensive to improve traction control; but, if you take your vehicle to a mechanic, he may charge you a few dollars.

Is Service AdvanceTrac Standard On All Ford Fusion Generations?

As you may be aware, the Ford Fusion is divided into two generations: the first generation (2006-2012) and the second generation (2013-2020). The Service AdvanceTrac light, on the other hand, is available on automobiles made after 2010.

This signifies that this feature is available on the most recent Ford Fusion 1st and 2nd generation vehicles. Check if the feature is fully operating or not when you buy it and give it a test drive.

If The Service AdvanceTrac Continues To Signal, What Should You Do?

When you get a warning on the dash screen, go over each place one by one to figure out what’s wrong.

• Examine the wiring circuit for any loose wires and separate and reattach them. If you’re still getting messages after checking your wiring, move on to checking the other issues.
• Consider an OBDII scanner that is both high-quality and simple to use and scanning software to discover other issues.
• Check the ABS module for any troublesome cables. Keep in mind that the ABS module is directly connected to the AdvanceTrac service.
• It could also mean that the fuel is running out or that the fuse has blown. If there is no problem with your tract control, it will stop signaling after the issues are resolved.
• Unfortunately, if your vehicle’s Service AdvanceTrac fails, it will either continue to illuminate or stop indicating notwithstanding the fault. You’ll also have issues with power steering and flickers.

Service AdvanceTrac Essential Knowledge

1. AdvanceTrac is Ford’s version of Electronic Stability Control (ESC), which uses electronic sensors to monitor vehicle stability.
2. “Service AdvanceTrac” warning light indicates that there is a fault in the car’s computerized system that requires immediate attention.
3. The article provides information on the causes, solutions, and answers to frequently asked questions about the Service AdvanceTrac warning light.
4. The Service AdvanceTrac system comprises the Anti-Lock Brake System, Traction Control System, and electronic sensors.
5. The warning light can be triggered by various factors, including Limp Mode activation, mismatched or wrong tires, damaged clock spring, and defective wheel speed sensor or steering angle sensor.
6. To diagnose the root cause of the warning light, the car is connected to an OBDII scanner to obtain active service codes, and each sensor’s wiring is examined.
7. The repairs needed to fix the warning light include reconnecting sensor wiring, replacing faulty sensors, and replacing any defective or damaged stability components.
8. The cost of repairing the Service AdvanceTrac warning light can range from $100 to $250, excluding labor charges.
9. It is not safe to drive with an illuminated Service AdvanceTrac control light, and it is recommended to reach out to a mechanic for a proper diagnosis and repair.

Final Verdict – Service Advancetrac

Although the word “AdvanceTrac” may be unknown to you, you can presume it tracks ahead of schedule. You may notice caution lights if you own a Ford Fusion, and this is the Service AdvanceTrac. However, because it is an illuminator that turns on when your car has a safety issue, it might be harmful if it is damaged. Learn how to service and check your Service AdvanceTrac issue.

The AdvanceTrac or Traction Control system on the Ford Fusion is the easiest to repair.

Please don’t take this function for granted, and repair it as needed to protect your safety. Therefore, the more features your vehicle offers, the more cautious you should be about maintaining it.

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