traction control FORD F-450 2020 User Guide

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.
USING TRACTION CONTROL
WARNING: The stability and
traction control light illuminates steadily
if the system detects a failure. Make sure
you did not manually disable the traction
control system using the information
display controls or the switch. If the
stability control and traction control light
is still illuminating steadily, have the
system serviced by an authorized dealer
immediately. Operating your vehicle with
the traction control disabled could lead
to an increased risk of loss of vehicle
control, vehicle rollover, personal injury
and death.
The system automatically turns on each
time you switch the ignition on.
If your vehicle is stuck in mud or snow,
switching traction control off may be
beneficial as this allows the wheels to spin.
Note: When you switch traction control off,
stability control remains fully active.
Note: For additional information on the
traction and stability control systems. See
Using Stability Control
(page 223). Switching the System Off
When you switch the system off or on, a
message appears in the information
display showing system status.
Use the traction and stability control
switch on the instrument panel to switch
the system off or on.
The switch illuminates when traction
control is off.
When you place your vehicle into
four-wheel drive low mode the traction
control disables. Traction control resumes
full operation when you put your vehicle
back into two-wheel drive mode.
System Indicator Lights and
Messages
The stability and traction control
light:
• Temporarily illuminates on engine
start-up.
• Flashes when a driving condition
activates either of the systems.
• Illuminates if a problem occurs in either
of the systems. The stability and traction control
off light temporarily illuminates
on engine start-up and stays on
when you switch the traction control
system off.
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PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION
WARNING: Vehicle modifications
involving braking system, aftermarket
roof racks, suspension, steering system,
tire construction and wheel and tire size
may change the handling characteristics
of your vehicle and may adversely affect
the performance of the electronic
stability control system. In addition,
installing any stereo loudspeakers may
interfere with and adversely affect the
electronic stability control system. Install
any aftermarket stereo loudspeaker as
far as possible from the front center
console, the tunnel, and the front seats
in order to minimize the risk of interfering
with the electronic stability control
sensors. Reducing the effectiveness of
the electronic stability control system
could lead to an increased risk of loss of
vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal
injury and death. WARNING:
Remember that even
advanced technology cannot defy the
laws of physics. It’ s always possible to
lose control of a vehicle due to
inappropriate driver input for the
conditions. Aggressive driving on any
road condition can cause you to lose
control of your vehicle increasing the risk
of personal injury or property damage.
Activation of the electronic stability
control system is an indication that at
least some of the tires have exceeded
their ability to grip the road; this could
reduce the operator ’s ability to control
the vehicle potentially resulting in a loss
of vehicle control, vehicle rollover,
personal injury and death. If your
electronic stability control system
activates, SLOW DOWN.
The system automatically turns on each
time you switch the ignition on. If a fault occurs in either the stability
control or the traction control system, you
may experience the following conditions:
•
The stability and traction control light
illuminates steadily.
• The stability control and traction
control systems do not enhance your
vehicle's ability to maintain traction of
the wheels.
• The Adaptive Steering system (if
equipped) automatically changes the
steering function to a fixed steering
ratio. See
Steering (page 256).
If a driving condition activates either the
stability control or the traction control
system you may experience the following
conditions:
• The stability and traction control light
flashes.
• Your vehicle slows down.
• Reduced engine power.
• A vibration in the brake pedal.
• The brake pedal is stiffer than usual.
• If the driving condition is severe and
your foot is not on the brake, the brake
pedal may move as the system applies
higher brake force.
The stability control system has several
features built into it to help you maintain
control of your vehicle:
Electronic Stability Control
The system enhances your vehicle ’s ability
to prevent skids or lateral slides by
applying brakes to one or more of the
wheels individually and, if necessary,
reducing engine power.
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Roll Stability Control
The system enhances your vehicle
’s ability
to prevent rollovers by detecting your
vehicle ’s roll motion and the rate at which
it changes by applying the brakes to one
or more wheels individually.
Traction Control
The system enhances your vehicle ’s ability
to maintain traction of the wheels by
detecting and controlling wheel spin. See
Using Traction Control (page 221). Vehicle without stability control
skidding off its intended route.
A
Vehicle with stability control
maintaining control on a slippery
surface.
B USING STABILITY CONTROL
AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability
Control
™ (RSC®)
The system turns on each time you switch
the ignition on.
You can switch the electronic stability
control and roll stability control portions
of the system off.
When you shift the transmission into
reverse (R) the systems disable. Use the traction and stability
control switch on the instrument
panel to switch the systems off
or on.
You can independently switch off the
traction control portion of the system.
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AdvanceTrac with RSC Features
Traction
control system
Electronic
stabilitycontrol
Roll stability
control
Stability
control light
Button func-
tions
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
Illuminated
during bulb check
Default at start-
up
Disabled
Enabled 1
Enabled
Illuminated
Button pressed
momentarily
Disabled
Disabled
Disabled
illuminated 3
Button pressed
and held for
more than 5 seconds
Enabled2
Enabled 1
Enabled
Illuminated
Double Press
(Pickup Only)
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
Not illuminated
Button pressed
again after
deactivation
Disabled
Disabled
Disabled
Illuminated
Transfer case
switched to
4WD Low 4
1 Electronic stability control has reduced sensitivity compared to a fully active system.
2 Traction control has reduced sensitivity compared to a fully active system.
3 Lamp light starts blinking for four seconds after entering the press and hold state.
4 Engaging 4WD Low disables roll stability control, electronic stability control and the
traction control systems.
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WHAT IS TRAIL CONTROL
WARNING: The system does not
control speed in low traction conditions
or extremely steep slopes. The system
is designed to be an aid and does not
relieve you of your responsibility to drive
with due care and attention. Failure to
follow this instruction could result in
personal injury. WARNING:
The system does not
replace the parking brake. When you
leave your vehicle, always apply the
parking brake and shift the transmission
into park (P) for automatic transmission
or first gear for manual transmission.
Trail control lets you focus on steering
during low-speed and off-road use by
controlling your vehicle's acceleration and
braking.
You can use trail control under the
following speeds:
• 20 mph (31 km/h)
in two-wheel or
four-wheel drive high range.
• 10 mph (15 km/h)
in four-wheel drive
low range.
• 5 mph (8 km/h)
in reverse (R).
You may hear a noise from the anti-lock
brake system pump motor when you use
the system. This is normal.
SWITCHING TRAIL CONTROL
ON AND OFF Press the button.
The system switches off if you press the
button again or exceed 42 mph (68 km/h). SETTING THE TRAIL CONTROL
SPEED
Note:
The buttons are located on the
steering wheel.
Drive to your preferred speed. Press button to increase the set
current speed.
Press button to decrease the set
current speed.
Note: The indicator changes color.
You can adjust the set speed in small or
large increments. Press the toggle button
upward or downward once to adjust the
set speed in small increments. Press and
hold the toggle button upward or
downward to adjust the set speed in large
increments.
You can also adjust the set speed by
braking.
Note: Pressing the brake pedal does not
switch off the system.
CANCELING THE SET SPEED Press the button.
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Automatic Cancellation
The system is not functional at vehicle
speeds below 12 mph (20 km/h). The
information display indicates low engine
speed, an audible alarm sounds and the
automatic braking releases if the vehicle
drops below this speed.
Automatic cancellation can also occur
when:
•
The tires lose traction.
• You apply the parking brake.
Note: If the engine speed drops too low, an
audible warning sounds and a message
appears in the information display.
Automatic braking releases.
Hilly Condition and Trailer Tow
Usage
You should select a lower gear when the
system is active in situations such as
prolonged downhill driving on steep
grades, for example in mountainous areas.
The system needs additional engine
braking in these situations to reduce the
load on the vehicle ’s regular brake system
to prevent it from overheating.
Note: An audible alarm sounds and the
system shuts down if it applies brakes for
an extended period of time. This allows the
brakes to cool. The system functions
normally again after the brakes cool.
Note: When towing with adaptive cruise
control, switch on Tow/Haul Mode and
Diesel Engine Brake.
Note: Tow/Haul mode increases the time
gaps and allows more distance for braking.
Switching Adaptive Cruise Control
Off Press and release the button
when the system is in standby
mode, or switch the ignition off. Note:
You erase the set speed and gap
setting when you switch the system off.
Detection Issues WARNING: On rare occasions,
detection issues can occur due to the
road infrastructures, for example bridges,
tunnels and safety barriers. In these
cases, the system may brake late or
unexpectedly. At all times, you are
responsible for controlling your vehicle,
supervising the system and intervening,
if required. WARNING:
If the system
malfunctions, have your vehicle checked
as soon as possible.
The radar sensor has a limited field of view.
It may not detect vehicles at all or detect
a vehicle later than expected in some
situations. The lead vehicle graphic does
not illuminate if the system does not
detect a vehicle in front of you.
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•
Electronic stability control and traction
control maintains your vehicle control
in adverse conditions or
high-performance driving.
• Electronic throttle control enhances
the powertrain response to your inputs.
• Transmission controls are optimized
with shift schedules tuned to each
terrain.
Using the System
The system tailors your vehicle
configuration for each mode you select.
Column Shifter To change the drive mode setting, press
the drive mode button. The drive mode
selection menu appears in the instrument
cluster and allows you to select through
the available drive modes.
Normal – For everyday driving.
This mode is a perfect balance
of excitement, comfort, and
convenience. WARNING: Do not use tow/haul
when the road surface is slippery. Failure
to follow this instruction could result in
the loss of control of your vehicle. Tow/Haul – For improved
transmission operation when
towing a trailer or a heavy load.
This mode moves upshifts to higher engine
speeds to reduce the frequency of
transmission shifting. This mode also
provides engine braking in all forward
gears, which slows your vehicle and assists
you in controlling your vehicle when
descending a grade. The amount of
downshift braking provided varies based
on the amount you press the brake pedal. Deep Snow/Sand – For snow or
soft, dry sand.
Eco – For efficient driving. This
mode helps deliver maximum
fuel efficiency and helps to
increase driving range. Slippery – For less than ideal
road conditions such as snow or
ice covered roads. Use this mode
for crossing terrain where loose, wet or
slippery material covers a firm surface.
Slippery mode lowers throttle response
and, if equipped with automatic
transmission, optimizes shifting for slippery
surfaces. Rock Crawl – For optimum
rock-climbing ability. Rock crawl
mode prompts you to put your
vehicle in 4x4 Low. Rock Crawl mode
optimizes the throttle and transmission
response to provide you additional control
of your vehicle. See
Using Four-Wheel
Drive (page 207). Some drive modes reduce
traction and stability control
performance and the warning
indicator illuminates in the instrument
cluster.
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In addition to providing an excellent
on-road driving experience, your vehicle
excels at all types of off-road driving. Your
vehicle has been designed and equipped
to allow you to explore those places where
the road doesn
’t take you, whether it’ s a
forest trail or the open desert. Before going
off-roading, consult with your local
governmental agencies to determine
designated off-road trails and recreation
areas. Also, be sure to understand any
off-road vehicle registration requirements
for the area in which you plan on driving.
Tread Lightly® is an educational program
designed to increase public awareness of
land-use regulations and responsibilities
in our nation ’s wilderness areas. Ford joins
the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land
Management in encouraging you to help
preserve our national forest and other
public and private lands by treading lightly.
Before taking your vehicle off-roading, a
basic vehicle inspection should be
conducted to make sure that the vehicle
is in peak operating condition.
It is always recommended that at least
two vehicles are used while off-roading.
The buddy system helps make sure that
help is close at hand should a vehicle
become stuck or damaged. It is also wise
to take supplies such as a first aid kit,
drinking water, tow strap, cell or satellite
phone with you any time an off-road
excursion is planned.
Remove the front license plate before
off-roading to achieve optimal
performance. Basic Off-road Driving Techniques
•
Grip the steering wheel with thumbs
on the outside of the rim. This reduces
the risk of injury due to abrupt steering
wheel motions that occur when
negotiating rough terrain. Do not grip
the steering wheel with thumbs inside
the rim.
• Throttle, brake and steering inputs
should be made in a smooth and
controlled manner. Sudden inputs to
the controls can cause loss of traction
or upset the vehicle, especially while
on sloped terrain or while crossing
obstacles such as rocks or logs.
• Look ahead on your route noting
upcoming obstacles, changes to
surface texture, color changes and any
other factors which may indicate a
change in available traction. Adjusting
the vehicle speed and route
accordingly. During pre-run, mark
obstacles with GPS markers to make
sure appropriate speeds are used to
avoid potential vehicle damage.
• When driving off-road, if the front or
rear suspension is bottoming-out
and/or excessive contact with the
skid-plates is encountered, reduce
vehicle speed to avoid potential
damage to the vehicle.
• When running with other vehicles, it is
recommended that some form of radio
communication is used so the lead
vehicle can notify others of obstacles
that could cause damage.
• Always keep available ground
clearance in mind and pick a route that
minimizes the risk of catching the
underside of the vehicle on an obstacle.
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•
Inspect exhaust system for damage or
looseness.
• Inspect undercarriage fasteners. If any
are loose or damaged, tighten or
replace ensuring that the proper torque
specification is used.
• Inspect the tires for any cuts in the
tread or sidewall area. Also inspect the
sidewall for any bulge indicating
damage to the tire.
• Inspect the wheels for dents, cracks,
or other damage.
• Refit the front license plate if removed
previously.
BREAKING-IN
You need to break in new tires for
approximately 300 mi (480 km). During
this time, your vehicle may exhibit some
unusual driving characteristics.
Avoid driving too fast during the first
1,000 mi (1,600 km)
. Vary your speed
frequently and change up through the
gears early. Do not labor the engine.
Drive your new vehicle at least
1,000 mi
(1,600 km) before towing a trailer. Make
sure you use the specified engine oil. See
Capacities and Specifications
(page
437).
Do not add friction modifier compounds
or special break-in oils during the first few
thousand miles (kilometers) of operation.
These additives may prevent piston ring
seating.
DRIVING THROUGH WATER WARNING:
Do not drive through
flowing or deep water as you may lose
control of your vehicle. Note:
Engine damage can occur if water
enters the air filter.
For Vehicles without Tremor Off-
Road Package
Note: Driving through standing water can
cause vehicle damage.
Note: Drive through water in an emergency
only and not as part of normal driving.
Before driving through standing water,
check the depth. Never drive through water
that is higher than the bottom of the wheel
hubs. When driving through standing water, drive
very slowly and do not stop your vehicle.
Your brake performance and traction may
be limited. After driving through water and
as soon as it is safe to do so:
•
Lightly press the brake pedal to dry the
brakes and to check that they work.
• Check that the horn works.
• Check that the exterior lights work.
• Turn the steering wheel to check that
the steering power assist works.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Use only approved wheel and tire sizes,
using other sizes could damage your
vehicle. If you change the diameter of the
tires from that fitted at the factory, the
speedometer may not display the correct
speed. If you intend to change the size of
the wheels from that fitted by the
manufacturer, you can check the suitability
with an authorized dealer.
Additional information related to the
functionality and maintenance of your tires
can be found later in this chapter. See Tire
Care (page 392).
You can find the recommended tire
inflation pressures can on the Tire Label,
which is on the B-pillar or the edge of the
driver door. You can also find this
information on the Safety Compliance
Certification Label, affixed to either the
door hinge pillar, door-latch post, or the
door edge that meets the door latch post;
next to the driver seating position.
We strongly recommend maintaining these
tire pressures at all times. Failure to follow
the tire pressure recommendations can
cause uneven treadwear patterns, reduced
fuel economy, and adversely affect the
way your vehicle handles.
Note: Check and set the tire pressure at the
ambient temperature in which you are
intending to drive your vehicle and when the
tires are cold.
Note: Check your tire pressures at least
once per month.
If your vehicle has a spare tire, set the
pressure to the highest value given for your
vehicle and tire size combination. Notice to utility vehicle and truck
owners WARNING:
Utility vehicles have a
significantly higher rollover rate than
other types of vehicles. WARNING:
Vehicles with a higher
center of gravity (utility and four-wheel
drive vehicles) handle differently than
vehicles with a lower center of gravity
(passenger cars). Avoid sharp turns,
excessive speed and abrupt steering in
these vehicles. Failure to drive cautiously
increases the risk of losing control of your
vehicle, vehicle rollover, personal injury
and death. WARNING:
In a rollover crash, an
unbelted person is significantly more
likely to die than a person wearing a
seatbelt. WARNING:
Do not become
overconfident in the ability of four-wheel
drive vehicles. Although a four-wheel
drive vehicle may accelerate better than
a two-wheel drive vehicle in low traction
situations, it won't stop any faster than
two-wheel drive vehicles. Always drive
at a safe speed.
Utility vehicles and trucks handle
differently than passenger cars in the
various driving conditions that are
encountered on streets, highways and
off-road. Utility vehicles and trucks are not
designed for cornering at speeds as high
as passenger cars any more than low-slung
sports cars are designed to perform
satisfactorily under off-road conditions.
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