“Service AdvanceTrac” in Ford F150 – What is this and How to Fix?

As you hit the gas pedal and take your Ford F150 for a spin, you notice that it's not running as smoothly as it used to. The service AdvanceTrac light flickers on and the truck is barely idling. This is a common issue among Ford F150 drivers and can be caused by a variety of problems ranging from malfunctioning sensors to issues with the ABS system. 

In this article, we will take a closer look at what AdvanceTrac is, how it works, and the possible reasons for its failure. We will discuss some effective methods to fix this issue and get your truck back on the road.

What is AdvanceTrac in Ford F150?

AdvanceTrac is a unique system designed by Ford to enhance the truck's stability, traction, and overall performance. The system uses a combination of sensors, software, and hardware to detect and correct any potential issues that could affect the vehicle's performance.

To put it simply, AdvanceTrac is an electronic stability control system designed to help drivers maintain control of their vehicles in various driving situations. This feature uses sensors to monitor the vehicle's speed, steering angle, and other factors and can adjust the engine power and braking to keep the truck stable and on the road.

So, what does this mean for you as a driver? Well, for starters, it can help you avoid accidents and stay safe on the road. AdvanceTrac is especially useful in slippery or uneven road conditions, where the truck might otherwise slide or lose control. This feature can also help you navigate tight turns and corners with more ease and confidence.

One of the most significant benefits of AdvanceTrac is that it helps improve the F150's braking performance. The system uses electronic brake force distribution (EBD) to optimize brake performance across all wheels, reducing stopping distance and preventing skidding.

But that's not all. AdvanceTrac also comes with Roll Stability Control, a system that can detect when the truck is in danger of rolling over and can apply the brakes to prevent it from happening. This can be especially useful for those who use their truck for work or off-roading, where the terrain can be unpredictable and unstable.

Of course, like any technology, AdvanceTrac is not infallible. Sometimes, the "service AdvanceTrac" warning light may come on, indicating that there is an issue with the system that needs to be addressed.

What the "Service AdvanceTrac" Warning Indicator Light in Ford F150 Means

The "Service AdvanceTrac" warning indicator light appears on the dashboard of your Ford F150 to alert you to potential problems with the AdvanceTrac system. This light may come on for several reasons, including a malfunction in the system, a damaged sensor, or a loose connection.

Here are some of the most common reasons why you may be seeing this error message on your vehicle's dashboard:

• Malfunctioning wheel speed sensor

The wheel speed sensor monitors the speed of each wheel and sends the information to the AdvanceTrac system. If one or more of the wheel speed sensors are faulty or malfunctioning, it can cause the system to malfunction and trigger the error message. 

• Faulty ABS module

The ABS module controls the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and the AdvanceTrac system. If the module is faulty, the AdvanceTrac system can malfunction.

• Low battery voltage

The AdvanceTrac system relies on a stable and sufficient power supply to function correctly. If the battery voltage is low, it can trigger the error message. 

• Electrical problems

The F150's advanced stability and traction control systems also rely heavily on electrical components. Any issues with the electrical system, such as a blown fuse or damaged wiring, can trigger the "Service AdvanceTrac" warning message.

• Software glitches

Like any advanced system, the F150's stability and traction control systems are also reliant on software. Any glitches or bugs in the software can trigger the "Service AdvanceTrac" warning message, even if there are no other underlying issues with the vehicle.

In some cases, the "Service AdvanceTrac" warning message can be triggered by other issues with the vehicle, such as a malfunctioning brake system or damaged suspension components.

How to Fix "Service AdvanceTrac" Error in Ford F150

It's important to understand what's causing the error message to appear. You can take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic or dealership to diagnose the problem. They will use specialized equipment to read the error codes stored in your vehicle's computer and determine the root cause of the problem.

Here are some steps to take if you decide to diagnose and fix the issue yourself: 

Step 1: Check the System

The first step in fixing the "Service AdvanceTrac" error message is to check the system. This involves inspecting the system's physical components for any signs of wear or damage. It is essential to check the system's sensors, wiring, and other components. If you do not feel confident in checking the system, it is recommended that you take your vehicle to a certified mechanic.

Step 2: Reset the System

If there are no visible signs of damage or wear, the next step is to reset the system. In some cases, the error message may be triggered by a temporary glitch in the system that can be resolved by resetting the computer. This can be done by disconnecting the battery for a few minutes, then reconnecting it and starting the vehicle. This will clear any stored error codes and reset the system. After reconnecting the battery, start the vehicle and check if the error message is still present.

Driving your Ford F150 with the "Service AdvanceTrac" Warning Light on

Driving your Ford F150 with the "Service AdvanceTrac" warning light on requires caution and attention. The warning message can also indicate a reduction in the functionality of the vehicle's stability and traction control systems. This can affect the vehicle's overall performance, especially in adverse weather conditions.

Also, any issue that affects the vehicle's stability and traction control systems can also raise concerns about safety. If you find yourself in a situation where the warning light is on, the first thing to do is to reduce your speed and drive cautiously. Avoid sudden turns or sharp maneuvers that could cause skidding. This will reduce the risk of accidents or further damage to your vehicle.

But it's still important to be aware of what's causing the "Service AdvanceTrac" warning message and take steps to address it promptly.

Turning off AdvanceTrac in Ford F150

Turning off AdvanceTrac is not recommended for everyday driving or in hazardous conditions. If you're driving on wet, icy, or uneven roads, you should leave AdvanceTrac on to prevent accidents. 

However, if you're on a closed course, a parking lot, or a private property, and want to have some fun or practice your driving skills, turning off AdvanceTrac can be a game-changer. Just remember that you're responsible for any damage or injury that may occur, so take it easy and be aware of your surroundings.

The process of turning off AdvanceTrac in your Ford F150 may vary depending on the year, model, and trim level of your truck, so we'll provide some general guidelines and tips that should work for most F150s. Here are the steps:

• Start your engine and make sure your truck is in park or neutral.
• Press the brake pedal and hold it down.
• Locate the AdvanceTrac button on your dashboard or steering wheel. It should have an icon that looks like a car with wavy lines or a skid mark.
• Press and hold the AdvanceTrac button for a few seconds until you see a message on your instrument cluster or infotainment system that confirms that AdvanceTrac is off. The message may vary depending on the year and model of your F150, but it should say something like "AdvanceTrac off" or "Traction control off".
• Release the AdvanceTrac button and the brake pedal. You're now free to enjoy your F150 without the constraints of AdvanceTrac.

Some F150s may require a different sequence of buttons or settings to turn off AdvanceTrac. For example, some models may have a dedicated "Sport" mode that disables AdvanceTrac along with other driving aids. Others may have a "Track" mode that optimizes the engine, transmission, and suspension for high-performance driving. If you're not sure how to turn off AdvanceTrac in your F150, consult your owner's manual or contact your Ford dealer for assistance.

Conclusion

The Ford F150's Service AdvanceTrac is an advanced stability control system designed to enhance the vehicle's performance and safety. While it is a reliable system, occasional malfunctions may occur, leading to warning messages and even disabling the feature.

It is crucial to address any issues with the AdvanceTrac system promptly to avoid compromising your safety on the road. By following the provided troubleshooting steps or seeking professional help, you can ensure your Ford F150's Service AdvanceTrac system remains in top-notch condition and continues to provide reliable stability and control on every drive.