Service Advancetrac is a common warning signal that most Ford vehicle owners may likely experience at one point in time or another. This and many other warning systems are fitted in Ford vehicles to guard the owners against imminent dangers.
The warning signal reveals a malfunction within the vehicle that you must not overlook. So, if you’re battling this issue right now in your Ford F150, don’t panic. Service Advancetrac’s meaning, causes, and solution to the problem have been unraveled below in this article.
What is Service AdvanceTrac Warning Light?
AdvanceTrac is Ford’s proprietary version of Electronic Stability Control (ESC). It’s similar to what Honda calls VSA and other brands may use different names for their stability control systems.
This system is intended to prevent vehicle skid during extreme circumstances, thereby minimizing the risk of an accident.
Ford’s AdvanceTrac system is relatively complex in nature, and utilizes a series of sensors to monitor wheel speed, as well as various other facets of vehicle stability.
The system actually combines several individual safety systems into a single integrated system, in order to further minimize the chance of a traction-loss induced accident. Ford’s AdvanceTrac system possesses the following capabilities:
Anti-Lock Brake Function
Anti-Lock brake systems prevent a vehicle from skidding under panicked braking conditions. When one or more wheels lock under significant brake pressure, this stoppage is communicated to a vehicle’s ABS controller by way of a wheel speed sensor.
This software then commands the system’s ABS pump motor/valve body assembly to rapidly pulsate brake pressure to the affected wheel, thereby breaking the skid.
Traction Control Function
A traction control system compares data from speed sensors at each wheel end location. If the system’s controller detects an irregularity in wheel speed from one wheel to the next, power to any wheel that displays excessive speed will be cut, or brake pressure will be applied.
This effectively evens the speed between each of a vehicle’s four wheels, thereby remedying any prior loss of traction.
Directional Orientated Stability Control Function
Vehicles now rely upon numerous sensors to identify vehicle instability, as skidding occurs. These sensors relay a comprehensive picture of the vehicle’s orientation while in a skid, to a specified controller, which adjusts power output and brake pressure to each wheel as needed for stabilization.
Sources of feedback for this operation include steering wheel angle sensors, yaw rate sensors, and accelerometers.
How AdvanceTrac Works
Now that we know what it is, let’s take a more in-depth look at how it works. The AdvanceTrac system constantly monitors the speed and traction of your wheels.
If it senses that one of the wheels is losing traction, it will automatically apply the brakes to that wheel to help prevent a skid.
It does this by using sensors to constantly monitor the speed and traction of each wheel. If one of the wheels starts to slip, then AdvanceTrac will automatically apply the brakes to that wheel. This helps prevent the vehicle from skidding out of control.
There are two main types of AdvanceTrac systems:
#1. RSC (Roll Stability Control).
This is the more basic type of AdvanceTrac system and is typically found in older vehicles. It uses sensors to monitor the speed and traction of your wheels, and will automatically apply the brakes to any wheel that it senses is losing traction.
#2. ESC (Electronic Stability Control).
The ESC is a more advanced type of AdvanceTrac system and is typically found in newer vehicles. In addition to monitoring the speed and traction of your wheels, it also uses sensors to monitor the yaw rate and lateral acceleration of your vehicle.
If it senses that your vehicle is starting to lose control, it will automatically apply the brakes to any wheel that it deems necessary.
Components of AdvanceTrac
The AdvanceTrac system works in conjunction with other systems in your vehicle to help improve the stability and control of your vehicle. These other systems include:
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): This system prevents your wheels from locking up when you brake suddenly.
- TCS (Traction Control System): This system helps improve traction by reducing engine power if it senses that one of the wheels is losing traction.
- EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution): This system helps distribute braking force evenly to all four wheels.
- DSC (Dynamic Stability Control): This is a more advanced form of ESC that is typically found in high-end vehicles. In addition to the features of ESC, it also can apply the brakes individually to each wheel.
- ETC (Electronic Throttle Control): This system helps improve throttle response and can automatically reduce engine power if it senses that the vehicle is losing control.
What Causes Service AdvanceTrac Light to Come On?
There are different reasons why the Service AdvanceTrac warning light may come up on your dashboard; some of the commonest ones are discussed below.
#1. Unbalanced Tires.
One of the common reasons why the Service AdvanceTrac may show up is due to unbalanced tires – if you use tires of different sizes on your vehicle.
Some drivers make the mistake of using bigger or smaller tires on their vehicle when they want to change just one tire that probably blew out or is already worn out.
When you use mismatched tires, the signals recorded by the wheel sensors won’t be the same, which could trigger the PCM to throw the Service AdvanceTrac notification.
Hence, you should ensure you stick the tires of the same specs as the stock ones that came with your car.
#2. Wheel Speed Sensor Failure.
If one or more of the wheel speed sensors fails, the AdvanceTrac system won’t read correct signals from the failed sensor(s), which could cause the warning light to appear on your dashboard.
Wheel speed sensors do not fail easily, but they can get clogged, covered, worn out, or even physically damaged over a long time. Have them checked – and probably changed too – after 80k miles.
#3. Battery Terminal Problems.
Another reason why your Ford vehicle showed the Service AdvancTrac warning light might be due to corroded battery terminals.
You should always look closely at the battery terminals each time you open the bonnet, and if, any day, you discover the terminals have started to corrode, it is advisable to change them as soon as possible.
#4. Bad Wiring.
Most of the AdvancTrac system components are powered by electrical parts, all wired. If you recently worked on your Ford vehicle’s electrical system, and suddenly you’re seeing the Service AdvancTrac light, chances are that during the electrical system repair, the electrician made some wrong connection or didn’t fix the ground properly.
#5. Blown Fuse.
Another possible culprit here would be a blown fuse. Cars’ electrical components are protected with fuses to avoid current issues, but then, these fuses can get blown by high voltage power supply or other reasons.
When a fuse is blown, the connected component is most likely going to malfunction, which could cause the Service AdvanceTrac notification.
#6. You’re Driving in Limp Mode.
Limp Mode is a safety feature in most cars designed to protect the engine and transmission when the car’s central computer detects there’s a big potential problem.
You can definitely drive in limp mode, but your vehicle’s performance will be very poor as the computer would automatically reduce how most components and systems function. Driving in limp mode can cause the Service AdvanceTrac warning light to come up.
#7. Low Fluids.
Driving with low fluids – especially low brake/hydraulic fluids – can cause Service AdvanceTrac notification. The AdvanceTrac system works in corporation with the steering and braking systems in Ford vehicles.
So, when the ABS fluid or hydraulic fluid is below the marked level, it could possibly trigger the service notification on your dashboard.
#8. Faulty Sensor.
Aside from the wheel speed sensor, there are other sensors that, when they go bad, the PCM or ECU may illuminate the “Service AdvanceTrac” light on your dashboard.
These sensors are the steering-angle sensor and rotational-speed sensor. So, you should also check and troubleshoot these sensors when trying to fix the Service AdvanceTrac notification.
Can You Continue Driving With the Service AdvanceTrac Light On?
When faced with an AdvanceTrac system issue, you can still drive your vehicle without any ill-effects. However, most vehicles automatically disable all AdvanceTrac related functions, when an active system fault has been detected.
While this is never an ideal situation, you are no more in harm’s way, than when driving a vehicle that is not equipped with a stability control system.
AdvanceTrac related issues are not detrimental to a vehicle’s driveability, as is often the case when an engine or transmission-based trouble code is stored.
In this instance, your vehicle is simply attempting to bring your attention to an underlying fault in its stability system.
However, it is recommended to have your vehicle’s AdvanceTrac system serviced at the first available opportunity, to restore your car’s safety to an optimal level.
In the meantime, it is also imperative to take extra caution when traversing slick or hazardous roadways, such as those encountered following wintry precipitation or heavy snowfall.
How to Fix Service AdvanceTrac Light?
To ensure the proper and safe functioning of your vehicle, it’s important to address the “Service AdvanceTrac” light. Follow these necessary steps to get an idea of how to fix the Service AdvanceTrac warning light.
- Check For Obvious Issues – Initially, inspect the wheels, tires, and surrounding areas for any visible damage, disconnected components, or loose wires. A simple visual check may identify and fix the problem.
- Turn Off and Restart – Turn off the engine, wait a few minutes, and restart the vehicle. A temporary glitch in the system may trigger the warning light, and a restart can clear this issue.
- Check The User Manual – Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific information on the “Service AdvanceTrac” warning light. It may include troubleshooting tips and information about the warning light, which can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
- Inspect Wheel Speed Sensors – The AdvanceTrac system relies on wheel speed sensors, so it’s essential to inspect them for dirt, damage, or misalignment. Repositioning or cleaning the sensors regularly may resolve the issue.
- Check Fluid Levels – Ensure that the brake fluid level is within the recommended range, as low brake fluid affects the ABS module, a closely related component to the AdvanceTrac system.
- Scan For Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) – Use an On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) scanner to retrieve any diagnostic trouble codes associated with the warning light. These codes provide valuable information about the specific issue triggering the warning.
- Professional Diagnosis – If you are unable to identify or solve a problem with your AdvanceTrac system, it is best to seek the help of a qualified mechanic or technician. They have specialized diagnostic equipment and expertise to accurately pinpoint the issue.
- Repairs Or Component Replacement – Based on their diagnostic findings, the mechanic may recommend repairs or replacement of damaged/worn components such as sensors, wires, the ABS module, or other related components.
- Clearing The Warning Light – Once the issue is resolved, the mechanic uses diagnostic equipment to clear the warning light from the vehicle’s computer system to confirm that the problem has been fixed.
- Test Drive – It is important to take your vehicle for a test drive after these steps to ensure that the “Service AdvanceTrac” light remains off and the system functions properly. This final step will confirm that the issue has been resolved successfully.
Diagnosing Service AdvanceTrac Problems
Mechanics use special tools and processes to diagnose any issues with your AdvanceTrac system, including the following:
- They use a diagnostic tool to check your car’s computer to identify any problems.
- They look for specific error codes related to the AdvanceTrac system.
- They visually inspect the system components to detect damage or wear.
- They test each sensor and check the wiring to make sure everything is working and connected properly.
This process helps mechanics pinpoint the exact problem with your AdvanceTrac system. Once they’ve identified the issue, they can make repairs and get your car back on the road.
How Do I Reprogram AdvanceTrac?
A common way to handle the service Advancetrac in Ford F250 is to reprogram the system, especially if it is triggered in error. Reprogramming your Ford’s Advancetrac is pretty straightforward. Follow the procedure below to reprogram the system.
- Turn on the car’s ignition and keep it running.
- Open the car’s deck.
- Remove the battery’s negative terminal.
- Allow the disconnection for about 5 minutes.
- After that, reconnect the battery.
Engaging in the simple procedure above will help you reprogram the Advancetrac function in your Ford Explorer, Mustang, F150, and many other models. However, you must ensure to engage the process accordingly to get the desired result.
How to Prevent Future Service AdvanceTrac Light Problems?
To maintain the proper functioning of your vehicle’s AdvanceTrac system and prevent future warning light issues, it’s essential to take certain preventive measures.
- Regular Maintenance: A periodic maintenance schedule is a must for the proper functioning of your vehicle. This regular maintenance, including inspections and servicing of key components like sensors, an ABS module, and wires, is recommended.
- Check Tires: Proper tire inflation and sufficient tread depth are important to ensure the overall performance of the stability control system rather than underinflated or bald tires.
- Don’t Overload: It is crucial to stick to the weight limits specified in your owner’s manual to avoid straining the suspension and traction control systems.
- Safe Driving Habits: Responsible driving and avoiding aggressive maneuvers will prevent unnecessary stress and wear and tear on the AdvanceTrac system components.
- Clean The Sensors: Regular inspection and cleaning of various sensors, including wheel speed sensors, will avoid interference of dirt and debris with their operation.
- Quality Repairs: If any repairs are required, make sure to perform them with a qualified mechanic and prefer to use genuine or high-quality replacement parts.
- Address Warning Lights Promptly: Warning lights on the vehicle’s dashboard, including the “Service AdvanceTrac” light, should not be ignored and have to be addressed promptly to prevent any further issues or damages from escalating.
- Software Updates: Staying updated with manufacturer-recommended software updates and recalls related to the AdvanceTrac system is essential for smooth, safe, and efficient driving.
- Avoid Off-Roading in Extreme Situations: If you plan to go off-roading with a vehicle having an AdvanceTrac system, be cautious and disable the system, if necessary, as driving in extreme off-road conditions can stress and strain the system.
- Know About Your Vehicle: We recommend going through your vehicle’s user manual to understand all the functions and features of the AdvanceTrac system and how it interacts with other vehicle systems (learn all about your vehicle).
How do I turn off AdvanceTrac?
Turning off Advancetrac in your Ford is pretty easy. Firstly, locate the Advancetrac switch beside the car’s start engine or on/off switch. After that, press the switch to turn off Advancetrac. Alternatively, you can turn off your vehicle and restart it.
Once you turn off your car’s engine and restart it, the Advancetrac system will turn off automatically. However, it is better to allow the function due to its role in ensuring stability and control under tough road conditions.
What is the AdvanceTrac on a Ford?
Advancetrac is a peculiar function of Ford vehicles. It works exactly like the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) in other vehicles.
The advancetrac system is responsible for providing stability and control when you’re driving on tough terrains like snow, ice, mud, etc.
The Advancetrac function is designed as one of the safety systems in Ford vehicles, especially the Ford F150, Ford Explorer, etc.
If you own a Mustang, ensure to learn about the Advancetrac function, as well as service Advancetrac in Mustang, in order to know how it works.
How much does it cost to fix a service AdvanceTrac?
Fixing a service Advancetrac warning light issue will cost between $100 and $250. However, the cost implication depends on the auto technician’s service labor cost and location.
While the service Advancetrac costs can be relatively cheaper in some locations, others can be overly expensive.
So, if you’re experiencing this issue in your Ford, ensure to figure out what the problem is or contact an expert auto mechanic within your neighborhood.
However, ensure to engage the service of an auto mechanic who knows how to handle this system’s malfunction perfectly.
FAQs.
Q: What does it mean when my car says check AdvanceTrac?
Ford vehicle owners may have come across the caption “Check Advancetrac” at one point or the other. If you’re wondering what the caption means, it simply shows that the Advancetrac function is unavailable.
On the other hand, the caption could also connote a malfunction within the Advancetrac system or its related components. If you suddenly see this message on your vehicle’s dashboard, ensure to figure out what the problem is and rectify it ASAP.
Q: Should AdvanceTrac be on or off?
Advancetrac function is expected to stay on always, except on rare occasions. The system helps your Ford maintain stability and control when driving under poor road conditions, especially snow, rain, ice, etc.
However, you may need to turn off Advancetrac if your car gets stuck in mud, snow, or ice. Turning off the function will enable your vehicle’s wheels to continue spinning to boost engine power. This level of engine power is necessary to get the car off that situation.
Q: What’s the difference Between Traction Control and AdvanceTrac?
TCS – Traction control system and Advancetrac are somewhat similar in function. However, traction control is designed to handle spinning rear wheels.
If you spin your vehicle’s rear tires, traction control is triggered to pull more engine power, apply the rear brakes, and stop the spinning.
On the other hand, Advancetrac functions like traction control. However, it also controls the front wheels. So, technically, it triggers more engine power to apply both the rear and front brakes to keep a car on its trajectory.
Q: Is service traction control serious?
The service traction control system helps you to drive safely during bad weather conditions, such as when driving on slippery terrain or other stability or steering issues.
Though the illumination of the service traction control light will not prevent you from driving the vehicle, it is best to diagnose the car and address the underlying problem.
If you ignore the warning light and keep driving the vehicle and run into slippery terrain, weather shift, storm, or into a situation that could cause traction issues, you’ll certainly lose the vehicle control since the traction control system is no longer there to help you maneuver the situation.
Final Words
Understanding what service Advancetrac means will help you know exactly what to do when the warning light illuminates your dashboard.
This function is peculiar to Ford vehicles. However, it works just like the regular Electronic Stability Control system in other cars.
So, ensure you do everything possible to avoid this warning light from displaying on your dashboard. And if you’re currently battling this issue, try the solutions suggested in this article.