The Ultimate Guide to Turning Off AdvanceTrac on Your Ford Fusion

The Ford Fusion is a popular mid-size sedan known for its comfort, performance, and advanced safety features. One such feature is AdvanceTrac, Ford’s electronic stability control system, which helps prevent skidding and loss of control. While AdvanceTrac is beneficial in most situations, some drivers might want to disable it for specific driving conditions, such as off-roading or driving on loose surfaces. This guide will walk you through the steps on how to turn off AdvanceTrac on your Ford Fusion.

Understanding AdvanceTrac

AdvanceTrac is an essential safety system that uses sensors to monitor your vehicle’s speed, steering angle, and wheel speed. If the system detects a loss of control, it automatically applies the brakes to individual wheels and reduces engine power to help you regain stability.

While AdvanceTrac is designed to enhance safety, there are situations where it might hinder your driving experience. For example, when driving on loose surfaces like snow or sand, AdvanceTrac’s intervention can actually prevent you from getting traction. In such scenarios, turning off AdvanceTrac might be necessary to regain control and maneuver your vehicle effectively.

When Should You Turn Off AdvanceTrac?

While AdvanceTrac is a valuable safety feature, it’s not always ideal. Here are some situations where you might consider turning it off:

• Off-roading: When driving on uneven terrain, AdvanceTrac can interfere with your ability to control the vehicle’s movement. It might constantly intervene, preventing you from navigating obstacles or maximizing traction.
• Driving on Loose Surfaces: AdvanceTrac can be overly sensitive on surfaces like snow, sand, or gravel. Its intervention might prevent you from gaining traction, making it difficult to move forward or control your vehicle.
• Performance Driving: If you’re a performance-oriented driver, AdvanceTrac might interfere with your ability to push your vehicle to its limits. It might limit throttle response and cut engine power, affecting your driving experience.

Important Note: It’s crucial to remember that turning off AdvanceTrac can compromise your safety. It’s essential to understand the risks involved and only disable the system when absolutely necessary.

How to Turn Off AdvanceTrac on Your Ford Fusion

The process of turning off AdvanceTrac on your Ford Fusion is relatively straightforward. Here’s how to do it:

1. Start your vehicle.
2. Locate the AdvanceTrac button. It’s typically located on the center console, near the gear shifter, or on the steering wheel. The button might be labeled with an icon depicting a car with skidding wheels or the words “AdvanceTrac” or “ESC.”
3. Press and hold the AdvanceTrac button. Hold the button down for a few seconds until the AdvanceTrac light on your dashboard blinks or turns off completely. This indicates that the system is now disabled.
4. Drive cautiously. Remember that AdvanceTrac is designed to enhance your safety. Drive carefully and be aware of your surroundings when the system is disabled.

Tips for Driving with AdvanceTrac Off

Here are some tips to keep in mind when driving with AdvanceTrac turned off:

• Be aware of your surroundings. Pay close attention to the road conditions and potential hazards.
• Maintain a safe speed. Don’t exceed the speed limit and be prepared to react quickly to any unexpected situations.
• Avoid sudden maneuvers. Sudden acceleration, braking, or steering can easily lead to loss of control without AdvanceTrac’s assistance.
• Be prepared to use your brakes. If you feel the vehicle starting to skid, gently apply the brakes to regain control.

When to Turn AdvanceTrac Back On

Once you’ve completed your off-roading or driving on loose surfaces, it’s essential to turn AdvanceTrac back on. This will ensure that your vehicle has the benefit of its safety features. To re-enable AdvanceTrac, simply press the AdvanceTrac button again. The light on your dashboard should illuminate, indicating that the system is active.

The Importance of Understanding Your Vehicle’s Safety Features

Understanding your vehicle’s safety features, including AdvanceTrac, is crucial for safe and responsible driving. While AdvanceTrac can be disabled in specific situations, it’s essential to use it whenever possible to ensure your safety and the safety of others.

Driving Safely with AdvanceTrac

AdvanceTrac is a valuable safety feature that can help you avoid accidents and maintain control of your vehicle. While it might be tempting to turn it off in certain situations, it’s essential to use it whenever possible to maximize your safety. If you’re unsure about how to use AdvanceTrac or any other safety feature on your Ford Fusion, consult your owner’s manual or contact your local Ford dealership.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is AdvanceTrac the same as ESP?

A: Yes, AdvanceTrac is Ford’s name for their electronic stability control system, which is also known as ESP (Electronic Stability Program) or ESC (Electronic Stability Control) in other vehicle brands.

Q2: Can I permanently disable AdvanceTrac?

A: While you can temporarily disable AdvanceTrac, it’s not recommended to permanently disable it. The system is designed to enhance your safety and should be used whenever possible.

Q3: What if the AdvanceTrac light is flashing?

A: A flashing AdvanceTrac light indicates that the system is active and attempting to correct a loss of control. Don’t turn off the system in this situation, as it’s actively working to keep your vehicle safe.

Q4: Can I turn off AdvanceTrac while driving?

A: It’s generally not recommended to turn off AdvanceTrac while driving. The system is designed to react quickly to sudden changes in road conditions, and disabling it while driving could compromise your safety.

Q5: How do I know if AdvanceTrac is working properly?

A: You can test AdvanceTrac by driving on a slippery surface, such as a wet parking lot. If you feel the vehicle starting to skid, you’ll notice the AdvanceTrac system intervening by applying the brakes and reducing engine power to help you regain control.