As the colder months roll in, icy roads, rain, and unpredictable weather can make driving more dangerous than usual. Maintaining control on slick or uneven terrain is a challenge even for the most experienced drivers. Thankfully, Ford has developed innovative technology designed to keep you safe — Ford AdvanceTrac.
What Is Ford AdvanceTrac
The Foundation of Ford’s Stability Control System
Ford AdvanceTrac is an advanced electronic stability control (ESC) system designed to help you maintain control of your vehicle when the road gets rough. Using sensors to monitor your steering wheel angle, acceleration, and wheel speed, AdvanceTrac can detect when your vehicle begins to lose traction.
When it senses wheel slip, AdvanceTrac automatically adjusts engine power and applies selective braking to help your vehicle stay on course — keeping you safe whether you’re driving on ice, snow, gravel, wet pavement, or dry roads.
How AdvanceTrac Works
Real-Time Vehicle Monitoring
At the heart of the AdvanceTrac system are high-speed gyroscopic sensors that take readings from your vehicle’s movement up to 150 times per second. These sensors constantly monitor how your vehicle is behaving and respond instantly when instability or slippage is detected.
Intelligent Power and Braking Adjustments
When AdvanceTrac detects a potential loss of control, it works with your Ford’s engine management system and braking system to correct your trajectory. It can:
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Reduce engine torque to slow the vehicle safely
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Apply brakes to individual wheels for better balance
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Reestablish traction without requiring any driver input
This seamless integration allows for improved stability, especially on uneven or slippery terrain.
Advanced Features That Enhance AdvanceTrac
Ford’s AdvanceTrac technology doesn’t work alone—it’s part of a broader suite of driver-assist features designed to provide total confidence behind the wheel.
Trailer Sway Control
When towing, this system automatically detects trailer movement and applies braking or reduces engine speed to help stabilize both your vehicle and the trailer.
Traction Control & Intelligent 4WD
These systems constantly monitor road conditions and automatically adjust power distribution between the wheels to maintain grip, whether you’re climbing hills or driving through snow.
Hill Start Assist & Hill Descent Control
AdvanceTrac also works in sync with hill management systems. Hill Start Assist prevents rollback when starting on an incline, while Hill Descent Control ensures a smooth, controlled descent by automatically modulating braking pressure.
What’s New with Ford AdvanceTrac in Recent Models
In newer Ford models, AdvanceTrac continues to evolve alongside other Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist technologies. These systems now integrate with Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Roll Stability Control (RSC) for even better performance.
Some 2024 and 2025 Ford vehicles also feature Drive Mode Select, allowing drivers to choose between Normal, Eco, Slippery, Tow/Haul, and Deep Snow/Sand modes. When paired with AdvanceTrac, this ensures optimal traction and handling across every environment.
Experience Ford AdvanceTrac at University Ford of Durham
Whether you’re facing slick winter roads or uneven off-road trails, Ford AdvanceTrac is engineered to keep you secure and confident wherever your journey takes you. Visit University Ford of Durham to explore the latest Ford models equipped with AdvanceTrac, including popular options like the Ford Explorer, F-150, and Escape.