2014 Ford Escape Owner Manual Printing 2 - Page 150

Traction Control PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION The traction control system helps avoid drive wheel spin and loss of traction. If your vehicle begins to slide, the system applies the brakes to individual wheels and, when needed, reduces engine power at the same time. If the wheels spin when accelerating on slippery or loose surfaces, the system reduces engine power in order to increase traction. System Indicator Lights and Messages WARNING If a failure has been detected within the AdvanceTrac system, the stability control light will illuminate steadily. Verify that the AdvanceTrac system was not manually disabled through the information display. If the stability control light still illuminates steadily, have the system serviced by an authorized dealer immediately. Operating your vehicle with AdvanceTrac disabled could lead to an increased risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death. The stability control light temporarily illuminates on E138639 engine start-up and flashes when a driving condition activates the stability system. The stability control off light temporarily illuminates on engine start-up and stays on when you turn the traction control system off. When you turn the traction control system off or on, a message appears in the information display showing system status. USING TRACTION CONTROL In certain situations for example, stuck in snow or mud, turning the traction control off may be beneficial as this allows the wheels to spin with full engine power. Depending on the type of system you have on your vehicle, you can either turn the system off using the information display or by pressing the button. Switching the System Off Using the Information Display Controls (If Equipped) Your vehicle comes with this feature already enabled. If required, you can switch this feature off using the information display controls. See Principle of Operation (page 147). Switching the System Off Using a Switch (If Equipped) The button is located in the instrument panel. Press the button. You will see a message in conjunction with an illuminated icon in the display. Press the button again to return the system to normal mode. When you switch the traction control system off, stability control remains fully active. 147 Escape/Kuga (TM2)