Have you ever had a warning light suddenly appear on your dashboard while driving? If you’ve seen the Service AdvanceTrac light, you may be wondering what it means and if you need to take immediate action.
This Service AdvanceTrac warning light indicates that your vehicle’s computerized system has detected a fault that requires hasty attention. The AdvanceTrac system helps the driver maintain control of their vehicles, especially in poor road conditions.
While it’s less safe to drive with this warning light on, it’s not as dangerous as driving without stability and traction control. You should have your vehicle repaired as soon as possible to avoid collisions in unfavorable driving conditions.
The AdvanceTrac system can reduce engine power and stop spinning by applying pressure to the front and rear brakes, forcing the car back into a straight line. In this article, we’ll explain what the warning light means, what causes it to light up, and the steps you should take to ensure the safety and performance of your vehicle. Stay tuned and let’s dive into the world of AdvanceTrac warnings together and explore everything you need to know about Service AdvanceTrac Warning Lights.
What Does Service AdvanceTrac Mean?
The Service AdvanceTrac warning indicates a malfunction or problem within the vehicle’s AdvanceTrac system, which is Ford’s branded version of Electronic Stability Control (ESC). This system is responsible for maintaining your vehicle’s stability and preventing skidding or loss of control while driving under different conditions.
The warning light could indicate a malfunction with one of the system’s components, like a faulty sensor, damaged ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) module, or related issues. A malfunctioning AdvanceTrac system can affect your vehicle’s safety and handling, especially when driving in slippery or challenging conditions. Therefore, it’s crucial to address this warning immediately to avoid further problems – diagnosing, troubleshooting, understanding, and fixing the issue includes resetting, repairing, and reprogramming your AdvanceTrac system.
Triggers of the Service AdvanceTrac Warning Light
Wondering why is my Service AdvanceTrac light on. It may be triggered by various problems in the AdvanceTrac system of a vehicle that is designed to improve safety and stability and prevent skidding in different driving conditions.
Here are some common causes of this Service Advance Trac light:
1. Faulty Sensors
The AdvanceTrac system relies on sensors that monitor steering angle, wheel speed, and other parameters. If any of these sensors fail or send incorrect data, the warning light may be triggered.
2. Damaged ABS Module
Since both the AdvanceTrac and the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) module are closely linked, any malfunction in the ABS module results in triggering the warning light, affecting the system’s ability to control wheel slip and stability. However, you need to resolve the Service AdvanceTrac & ABS light on, which has to be turned off for effective driving.
3. Wheel Speed Sensor Issues
Each wheel of a vehicle has its speed sensor, and if any of these are damaged, misaligned, or dirty, the AdvanceTrac system might not function properly and thereby trigger the warning light.
4. Faulty Wiring or Connections
If connectors, wiring, or electrical components related to the AdvanceTrac system are damaged or loose, the system’s overall operation may be disrupted, and activate the warning light.
5. Limp Mode Activated
The limp mode is a security feature in the vehicle that gets activated when the transmission control unit or engine is faulty/unresponsive brake pedal. In case your Ford vehicle enters into limp mode, then it triggers a lot of warning signals, including the Service AdvanceTrac warning light.
6. Wheel Bearing Problems
Worn-out or damaged wheel bearings can affect the precision of wheel speed readings, which further results in causing AdvanceTrac system issues and the accompanying warning.
7. Other Malfunctions
Being a complex system, the AdvanceTrac may experience various mechanical or electronic malfunctions over time. Problems with software glitches, a control module, or hydraulic pump failures may also trigger the warning light.
8. Traction Control System Issues
The traction control system is closely tied to the AdvanceTrac system, which means any issues with the traction control components might turn on the warning light.
9. Faulty Steering Angle Sensor
The steering angle sensor determines the vehicle’s stability and direction. If there are any malfunctions, the system may activate the warning light.
Verdict: It is important to address a “Service AdvanceTrac” warning on your vehicle’s dashboard promptly. Ignoring this warning and driving with a malfunctioning stability control system can compromise your safety, especially in adverse road conditions. However, determining the exact cause of this warning can be challenging. It is recommended to diagnose the vehicle properly with a qualified mechanic or technician by using specialized diagnostic equipment, and then recommend essential repairs for the safety of both you and your vehicle.
Is It Safe to Drive With the Service AdvanceTrac Light On?
Driving with the “Service AdvanceTrac” warning light on is not safe or advisable. The warning light is designed to prevent skidding and enhance the safety and stability of your vehicle, particularly in adverse road conditions. This light indicates the problem or malfunction within the AdvanceTrac system. If you ignore and continue driving with this warning light on, then it puts you and your vehicle at risk, as it deals with the safety and handling of your vehicle, especially while driving in difficult road conditions.
The malfunction can result in reduced stability, limited traction control, impaired handling, and potential safety risks. If you notice this warning, it is advisable to pull over safely and turn off the engine. You should then have a qualified technician or mechanic diagnose and repair these issues to operate your vehicle safely.
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.
Verdict: Remember, driving a vehicle with a malfunctioning AdvanceTrac system compromises safety, especially in challenging road conditions. It is vital to address issues promptly and make necessary repairs by a qualified professional to ensure the proper functioning of your vehicle’s stability and traction control systems. How do I fix Service Advancetrac? Here’s the step-by-step procedure that helps to reset the Service AdvanceTrac warning light.
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).
Verdict: By following these preventive measures, you can minimize the likelihood of encountering “Service AdvanceTrac” warning light issues and thereby ensure the stability and traction control systems operate effectively whenever needed.
AdvanceTrac Warning Lights – FAQs
Ans: The cost of repairing the warning light for Service AdvanceTrac can vary, depending on the severity of the issue, ranging from $200 to $1500 (or more). Minor issues such as sensor replacements or wiring fixes may cost less, while complex problems like ABS module replacement may cost more. Remember these are rough estimates and the actual cost will depend on factors such as the make and model of your vehicle (Ford models), local labor costs, and the extent of repairs needed. To get an accurate quote (exact cost), it’s best to consult a qualified mechanic.
Ans: The main difference between AdvanceTrac technology and the Traction Control System (TCS) is their scope of functionality. TCS is designed to prevent wheel spin during acceleration, which helps maintain traction in slippery conditions. Alternatively, AdvanceTrac is a more comprehensive system that includes TCS and electronic stability control (ESC). It assists with steering and prevents skidding to boost the stability of your vehicle or loss of control in various driving scenarios. In short, while TCS deals with wheel spin, AdvanceTrac addresses a wider range of stability-related issues, making it a more advanced and safety-oriented system.
Ans: The Service AdvanceTrac system has some components that include electronic sensors (to provide information on rotational speed and vehicle motion to the PCM), an anti-lock braking system (ABS to prevent over/under steering or brake locking), a traction control system (to avoid sliding by applying the proper braking pressure), Electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD to distribute braking force evenly to all the wheels), and Electronic throttle control (to improve throttle response and auto-reduce engine power if the vehicle loses control).
Ans: Yes, you can drive the vehicle with the Service AdvanceTrac light on, but experts won’t recommend it. The AdvanceTrac system helps to improve safety and traction, so, it’s best to get the problem fixed quickly for efficient and safe driving.
Ans: You can turn off the AdvanceTrac system by pressing the button on the dash. This is only necessary if you are driving in an area with a lot of mud or sand.
Ans: Being a complex system with numerous sensors, a qualified mechanic’s assistance is required to fix the Service AdvanceTrac problem. Here, if any of these sensors aren’t working correctly, then it causes the overall system to malfunction and activate this warning light. Proper addressing and resolving the issue will help in safe and efficient driving.
Conclusion
Well, we have explored the ins and outs of the “Service AdvanceTrac” warning lights, starting from understanding the concept – diagnosing, and addressing the triggering issues. Safety on the road is of utmost priority while driving a vehicle, which means you have to respond promptly and take necessary action to address this warning light flashing.
Notwithstanding whether it requires a simple visual check, a quick restart, or a must-to visit to a trusted mechanic, you need to address the issue promptly will help to maintain the vehicle’s stability and allow you to drive the vehicle safely and peacefully, even in challenging road conditions (wet weather).
We hope this article has provided a detailed insight into the “Service AdvanceTrac” warning lights – its causes & how to fix them properly. Feel free to share your queries regarding this warning light issue with us in the comments section below. We will respond promptly to resolve your issues.
