Service Advancetrac Ford Fusion

A “Service Advancetrac” warning light in a Ford Fusion indicates a problem with the AdvanceTrac system. AdvanceTrac helps prevent skids and improve handling through traction and stability control. When this light turns on, key safety features could be disabled.

This article covers common triggers for the warning, diagnostic tips, repair costs, and safe driving recommendations in the event the light remains active.

What is AdvanceTrac?

AdvanceTrac is Ford’s electronic stability control and traction control system. It uses a series of sensors to detect loss of traction and apply brakes to individual wheels as needed to help keep the vehicle stable and prevent skidding. In the Ford Fusion, AdvanceTrac helps improve handling and safety in inclement weather or when making sudden maneuvers.

Common Causes of the “Service Advancetrac” Warning

There are a few common issues that can trigger the “Service Advancetrac” warning light in the Ford Fusion:

• Sensor malfunctions – This system relies on input from sensors like the wheel speed sensors, steering angle sensor, and ABS sensors to function properly. If any of these have failed or are giving invalid signals, it will disable AdvanceTrac and turn on the warning light.
• Tire pressure problems – Having low pressure in one or more tires or mismatched tire sizes can confuse the AdvanceTrac system because of differences in wheel speeds. This can cause the light to activate.
• Brake fluid issues – Low brake fluid levels or contaminated fluid can also trigger the light since AdvanceTrac relies on proper braking ability.
• Fuse failure – There is a 7.5 amp fuse that protects the AdvanceTrac module. If it blows, it will disabled the system.
• Computer faults – Internal issues with the AdvanceTrac control module due to crashes, damage, or software bugs can also lead to service messages.

Diagnosing the “Service Advancetrac” Warning

Diagnosing the root cause requires methodically checking each system that feeds information to AdvanceTrac:

• Use a tire pressure gauge to check all 4 tires have adequate inflation specified by Ford (around 33 PSI)
• Pop the hood and check that brake fluid reservoir level falls between the “Min” and “Max” lines
• Connect a OBD-II scanner tool and check for any stored ABS, traction control, or AdvanceTrac fault codes
• Inspect the wheel speed sensor wiring harnesses for damage which could cause signal loss

These steps should reveal any sensor or maintenance issues triggering the warning light.

Repair Costs and Options

Potential repair costs vary considerably depending on cause:

• Tire pressure and brake fluid fixes are simple inexpensive maintenance
• Replacing a failed wheel speed sensor or fuse = $125-200 for parts and labor
• Swapping a malfunctioning AdvanceTrac control module = $350+
• Software updates or reflashing the computer = $150+ shop fees

Completing the necessary repairs promptly is important to restore normal stability control functionality and safety. The issues triggering the light should also be addressed cautiously by avoiding aggressive acceleration or high speeds.

Driving with an Active “Service Advancetrac” Warning

When the warning first appears, move to a safe location to evaluate the situation. Given AdvanceTrac helps prevent skids and improve handling, it is risky to continue driving without addressing the problem:

• Drive slower and avoid sudden steering maneuvers or hard braking which could break traction.
• Understand braking distances may increase without the extra stability assistance.
• If repairs must be delayed significantly, Ford recommends having the system disabled to extinguish warning lights – this should only be done by a professional technician.

Getting the issues repaired promptly is the best practice when dealing with a Ford Fusion’s “Service Advancetrac” warning for safety. Use extra caution until system function can be restored by a qualified automotive service center or repair shop.