traction control FORD RANGER 2023 User Guide

“Tread Lightly” is an educational programdesigned to increase public awareness ofland-use regulations and responsibilitiesin our nation's wilderness areas. We jointhe U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau ofLand Management in encouraging you tohelp preserve our national forest and otherpublic and private lands by “treadinglightly.”
Driving on Hilly or Sloping Terrain
Although natural obstacles may make itnecessary to travel diagonally up or downa hill or steep incline, you should drivestraight up or straight down.
Note: Avoid turning on steep slopes or hills.A danger lies in losing traction, slippingsideways and possible vehicle roll over. Donot drive over the crest of a hill withoutseeing what conditions are on the other side.Do not drive in reverse over a hill without theaid of an observer. Whenever driving on ahill, determine beforehand the route youintend to use.
When climbing a steep slope or hill, startin a lower gear rather than downshifting toa lower gear from a higher gear once theascent has started. This reduces strain onthe engine and the possibility of stalling.
If your vehicle stalls, do not try to turnaround because this could cause vehicleroll over. It is better to reverse back to asafe location.
Apply just enough power to the wheels toclimb the hill. Too much power could causethe tires to slip, spin or lose traction,resulting in loss of vehicle control.
Descend a hill in the same gear you woulduse to climb up the hill to avoid excessivebrake application and brake overheating.Do not descend in neutral (N). Move thetransmission selector lever to a lower gear.When descending a steep hill, avoidsudden hard braking as you could losecontrol. Make sure the front wheels areturning so you can steer your vehicle.
If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, steadilyapply the brakes. Do not pump the brakes.
Driving on Snow and Ice
WARNING: If you are driving inslippery conditions that require tirechains or cables, then it is critical thatyou drive cautiously. Keep speeds down,allow for longer stopping distances andavoid aggressive steering to reduce thechances of a loss of vehicle controlwhich can lead to serious injury or death.If the rear end of your vehicle slides whilecornering, steer in the direction of theslide until you regain control of yourvehicle.
Note:Excessive tire slippage can causetransmission damage
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2023 Ranger (TFG) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 10-10-2022, enUSA, Edition date: 202208, First-PrintingFour-Wheel Drive (If Equipped)E143950 E143949

ELECTRONIC LOCKING
DIFFERENTIAL (IF EQUIPPED)
Note:Do not operate the system on dryhard surface roads. Doing so could lead toexcessive tire noise and wear. Use thesystem only on consistently slippery or loosesurfaces.
The system locks the left and right portionsof the rear axle together to form a soliddriving axle, resulting in increased rearwheel traction in certain conditions.
Press and hold the electronic differentiallock button for 2 seconds to activate thesystem.
Note:The lock button is on the centerconsole.
Note:Do not perform this operation whencruise control or trail control are selectedand active. The system may not engage asexpected.
The electronic differential lock can lockand unlock when the internal gears arealigned and no torque load is placed onthe differential. To aid alignment, drive thevehicle in a straight line with theaccelerator pedal released. Alternatively,drive slowly forward and backward whilemoving the steering wheel from side to sideto allow the electronic differential lock tolock.
High vehicle speed and high acceleratorpedal application inhibit the electroniclocking differential system engagement.Follow the instruction on the instrumentcluster for engagement anddisengagement.
Note:You can use the system in any drivemode 2H, 4H or 4L.
Note:When you engage the system, theElectronic Stability Program (ESP) functionssuch as Stability Control, Traction Control,Hill Descent Control, Emergency stop signal,Hill Start Assist and Trailer Sway Controlare deactivated, the ESP Off indicatorilluminates, and the HDC on indicator turnsoff.
Note:When the anti-lock braking systemis operating, the system disengages.
The electronic locking differential systemcan affect various terrain modes. SeePrinciple of Operation (page 182).
Operating Electronic LockingDifferential with Spare orMismatched Tires
The size of the spare tire can affect theperformance of the electronic lockingdifferential system. When there is asignificant size difference between the tworear tires, you could have limited electroniclocking differential functionality. If yourelectronic locking differential has difficultydisengaging, release your accelerator pedaland turn the steering wheel in the oppositedirection while rolling forward.
Note:We recommend that you engage anddisengage the electronic locking differentialwhen stopped, and a spare tire is mountedon the rear axle.
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2023 Ranger (TFG) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 10-10-2022, enUSA, Edition date: 202208, First-PrintingRear AxleE277073

PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION
The traction control system helps avoiddrive wheel spin and loss of traction.
If your vehicle begins to slide, the systemapplies the brakes to individual wheelsand, when needed, reduces engine powerat the same time. If the wheels spin whenaccelerating on slippery or loose surfaces,the system reduces engine power in orderto increase traction.
USING TRACTION CONTROL
WARNING: Operating your vehiclewith the traction control disabled couldlead to an increased risk of loss of vehiclecontrol, vehicle rollover, personal injuryand death.
The system automatically turns on eachtime you switch the ignition on.
If your vehicle is stuck in mud or snow,switching traction control off may bebeneficial as this allows the wheels to spin.
Note:When you switch traction control off,stability control remains fully active.
Switching the System Off
The switch for the stability and tractioncontrol system is on the console.
When you switch the system off, amessage and an illuminated icon appearon the instrument cluster.
Use the switch again to return the tractioncontrol system to normal operation.
Your vehicle may have MyKey restrictionsregarding this feature. See Principle ofOperation (page 59).
System Indicator Lights andMessages
The stability and traction controllight temporarily illuminates onengine start-up and flashes:
•When a driving condition activateseither of the systems.
•If a problem occurs in either of thesystems.
The stability and traction controloff light temporarily illuminateson engine start-up and stays on:
•When you switch the traction controlsystem off.
•When you select an alternative stabilitycontrol mode.
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2023 Ranger (TFG) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 10-10-2022, enUSA, Edition date: 202208, First-PrintingTraction ControlE166706 E138639 E130458

PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION
WARNING: Vehicle modificationsinvolving braking system, aftermarketroof racks, suspension, steering system,tire construction and wheel and tire sizemay change the handling characteristicsof your vehicle and may adversely affectthe performance of the electronicstability control system. In addition,installing any stereo loudspeakers mayinterfere with and adversely affect theelectronic stability control system. Installany aftermarket stereo loudspeaker asfar as possible from the front centerconsole, the tunnel, and the front seatsin order to minimize the risk of interferingwith the electronic stability controlsensors. Reducing the effectiveness ofthe electronic stability control systemcould lead to an increased risk of loss ofvehicle control, vehicle rollover, personalinjury and death.
WARNING: Remember that evenadvanced technology cannot defy thelaws of physics. It's always possible tolose control of a vehicle due toinappropriate driver input for theconditions. Aggressive driving on anyroad condition can cause you to losecontrol of your vehicle increasing the riskof personal injury or property damage.Activation of the electronic stabilitycontrol system is an indication that atleast some of the tires have exceededtheir ability to grip the road; this couldreduce the operator's ability to controlthe vehicle potentially resulting in a lossof vehicle control, vehicle rollover,personal injury and death. If yourelectronic stability control systemactivates, SLOW DOWN.
The system automatically turns on eachtime you switch the ignition on.
If the stability control or traction controlsystem detects a fault, the following mayoccur:
•The stability and traction control lightilluminates steadily.
•The stability control and tractioncontrol systems do not enhance yourvehicle's ability to maintain traction ofthe wheels.
If the stability control or traction controlsystem activates, the following may occur:
•The stability and traction control lightflashes.
•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 andyour foot is not on the brake pedal, thepedal may move as the system applieshigher brake force.
The stability control system has severalfeatures built into it to help you maintaincontrol of your vehicle.
Electronic Stability Control
The system helps to prevent your vehicleskidding or laterally sliding by individuallyapplying the brakes to one or more wheelsand, if necessary, reducing engine power.
Roll Stability Control
The system helps to prevent rollovers bydetecting your vehicle's roll motion, andindividually applying the brakes to one ormore wheels.
Traction Control
The system enhances your vehicle's abilityto maintain traction of the wheels bydetecting and controlling wheel spin. SeeUsing Traction Control (page 178).
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2023 Ranger (TFG) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 10-10-2022, enUSA, Edition date: 202208, First-PrintingStability Control

Vehicle without stability controlskidding off its intended route.A
Vehicle with stability controlmaintaining control on a slipperysurface.
B
USING STABILITY CONTROL
AdvanceTrac™ with Roll StabilityControl™ (RSC™)
The system automatically turns on eachtime you switch the ignition on.
You can switch the electronic stabilitycontrol systems off.
When you shift the transmission intoreverse (R), the systems are disabled.
You can switch the traction control systemoff or on independently. See UsingTraction Control (page 178).
AdvanceTrac with RSC Features
Tractioncontrol systemElectronicstabilitycontrol
Roll stabilitycontrolStabilitycontrol OFFlight
Button func-tions
EnabledEnabledEnabledIlluminatedduring bulbcheck
Default at start-up
DisabledEnabledEnabledIlluminatedButton pressedmomentarily
DisabledDisabledAfter Enabled1IlluminatedButton pressedand held formore than 5seconds
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2023 Ranger (TFG) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 10-10-2022, enUSA, Edition date: 202208, First-PrintingStability ControlE72903 E385188

PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION
Using the Terrain ManagementSystem
The terrain management system optimizesdrivability and comfort by maximizingtraction when operating on different typesof terrain.
Press the TM button on the center consoleto choose between the following modes:
Note:Changing terrain modes couldautomatically change your 4X4 setting foroptimal performance.
Normal - For on-roadconditions. Select this modebefore driving on surfaces whichare similar to a hard road surface or oncethe need for a special mode has passed.
Note:This is the default when you switchon your vehicle and whenever you select 4x2via the four-wheel drive control.
Grass/Gravel/Snow - Foroff-road conditions. Select thismode where loose or slipperymaterial such as packed snow, ice, grass,or a thin layer of gravel or sand covers afirm surface. If your vehicle cannot gaintraction in deep snow, switching off thetraction control system could help.
Note:Make sure you switch traction controlback on when you regain traction.
Mud/Ruts - For off-roadconditions. Select this mode formuddy, rutted, soft or uneventerrain.
Sand - For off-road conditions.Select this mode in soft dry sandor deep gravel. If crossing wetsand that could be sufficiently deepenough for the wheels to sink into thesurface, select Mud/Ruts mode.
Note:The Grass/Gravel/Snow, Sand andMud/Ruts modes are for off-road use only.
Note:The curve control portion of theAdvanceTrac® system is unavailable whenyou select Sand or Mud/Ruts. If the systembecomes inoperable, selecting some modesmay not be possible and a messagedisplays. If it becomes inoperable due to asystem fault, all of the mode indicators onthe control turn off and one of the followingmessages appears in the informationdisplay:
TERRAIN MANAGEMENT SYSTEMFAULT
Switching the engine on and off may clearthe fault. If that does not work, have thesystem serviced by an authorized dealer.
MODE CHANGE NOT ACCEPTED,RETRY
This mode change cannot be made at thetime of your request. Try the mode changeagain.
Off-road Screen
You can continuously monitor thereal-time status of your vehicle's off-roadsystems using the information display.
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2023 Ranger (TFG) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 10-10-2022, enUSA, Edition date: 202208, First-PrintingTerrain Control (If Equipped)E282969 E283048 E283044 E225313 E283037

WHAT IS TRAIL CONTROL
WARNING: The system does notcontrol speed in low traction conditionsor extremely steep slopes. The systemis designed to be an aid and does notrelieve you of your responsibility to drivewith due care and attention. Failure tofollow this instruction could result inpersonal injury.
WARNING: The system does notreplace the parking brake. When youleave your vehicle, always apply theparking brake and shift the transmissioninto park (P) for automatic transmissionor first gear for manual transmission.
Trail control lets you focus on steeringduring low-speed and off-road use bycontrolling your vehicle's acceleration andbraking.
You can use trail control under thefollowing speeds:
•20 mph (31 km/h) in two-wheel orfour-wheel drive high range.
•10 mph (15 km/h) in four-wheel drivelow range.
•5 mph (8 km/h) in reverse (R).
You may hear a noise from the anti-lockbrake system pump motor when you usethe system. This is normal.
SWITCHING TRAIL CONTROL
ON AND OFF
Press the button.
The system switches off if you press thebutton again or exceed 42 mph (68 km/h).
SETTING THE TRAIL CONTROL
SPEED
Note:The buttons are on the steeringwheel.
Drive to the speed you prefer.
Press the button to increase thecurrent set speed.
Press the button to decrease thecurrent set speed.
Note:The indicator changes color.
You can adjust the set speed in small orlarge increments. Press the toggle buttonupward or downward once to adjust theset speed in small increments. Press andhold the toggle button upward ordownward to adjust the set speed in largeincrements.
You can also adjust the set speed bybraking.
Note:Pressing the brake pedal does notswitch off the system.
CANCELING THE SET SPEED
Press the button.
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2023 Ranger (TFG) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 10-10-2022, enUSA, Edition date: 202208, First-PrintingTrail Control (If Equipped)E272858 E262918 E327441 E246885 E265298

When you press the accelerator pedal, youoverride the set speed and gap distance.
Use the accelerator pedalnormally to intentionally exceedthe set speed limit.
When you override the system, the greenindicator light illuminates and the vehicleimage does not appear in the informationdisplay.
The system resumes operation when yourelease the accelerator pedal. The vehiclespeed decreases to the set speed, or alower speed if following a slower vehicle.
Changing the Set Speed
Press and release to increase theset speed in small increments.
Press and release to decreasethe set speed in smallincrements.
Press and hold either button to change theset speed in large increments. Release thebutton when the set speed equals thespeed you prefer.
Press the accelerator or brake pedal untilyou reach the speed you prefer. Presseither button.
The system may apply the brakes to slowthe vehicle to the new set speed. The setspeed displays continuously in theinformation display when the system isactive.
Canceling the Set Speed
Press and release the button ortap the brake pedal.
The set speed does not erase.
Resuming the Set Speed
Press and release the button.
Your vehicle speed returns to thepreviously set speed and gap setting. Theset speed displays continuously in theinformation display when the system isactive.
Note:Only use resume if you are aware ofthe set speed and intend to return to it.
Automatic Cancellation
The system is not functional at vehiclespeeds below 12 mph (20 km/h). Theinformation display indicates low enginespeed, an audible alarm sounds and theautomatic braking releases if the vehicledrops below this speed.
Automatic cancellation can also occurwhen:
•The tires lose traction.
•You apply the parking brake.
Note:If the engine speed drops too low, anaudible warning sounds and a messageappears in the information display.Automatic braking releases.
Hilly Condition Usage
Note:An audible alarm sounds and thesystem shuts down if it applies brakes foran extended period of time. This allows thebrakes to cool. The system normallyfunctions again when the brakes havecooled.
Select a lower gear during prolongeddownhill driving on steep slopes, such asmountainous areas, when the system isactive. In such situations, the system needsadditional engine braking to reduce theload on the vehicle’s regular brake systemto prevent the brakes from overheating.
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2023 Ranger (TFG) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 10-10-2022, enUSA, Edition date: 202208, First-PrintingCruise Control (If Equipped)E144529 E246884 E246885

•Transmissions give their best fueleconomy when operated in the topcruise gear and with steady pressureon the gas pedal.
•Four-wheel-drive operation (ifequipped) is less fuel efficient thantwo-wheel-drive operation.
COLD WEATHER
PRECAUTIONS
The functional operation of somecomponents and systems can be affectedat temperatures below approximately-13°F (-25°C).
OFF-ROAD DRIVING
Before going off-roading, consult with yourlocal governmental agencies to determinedesignated off-road trails and recreationareas. Also, be sure to understand anyoff-road vehicle registration requirementsfor the area in which you plan on driving.
Before taking your vehicle off-roading, abasic vehicle inspection should be done tomake sure that the vehicle is in top workingcondition.
Basic Off-road Driving Techniques
•Grip the steering wheel with thumbson the outside of the rim. This reducesthe risk of injury due to abrupt steeringwheel motions that occur whennegotiating rough terrain. Do not gripthe steering wheel with thumbs insidethe rim.
•Look ahead on your route notingupcoming obstacles, surface textureor color changes or any other factorswhich may indicate a change inavailable traction, and adjust thevehicle speed and route accordingly.
•Always keep available groundclearance in mind and pick a route thatminimizes the risk of catching theunderside of the vehicle on an obstacle.
•When negotiating low speed obstacles,applying light brake pressure inconjunction with the throttle helpsprevent the vehicle from jerking andallows you to negotiate the obstaclein a more controlled manner. Using 4Lalso helps with this.
Crossing Obstacles
•Review the path ahead beforeattempting to cross any obstacle. It isbest if the obstacle is reviewed fromoutside the vehicle so that there is agood understanding of terrain conditionboth in front of and behind theobstacle.
•If a large obstacle such as a rockcannot be avoided, choose a path thatplaces the rock directly under the tirerather than the undercarriage of thevehicle. This helps prevent damage toyour vehicle.
Hill Climbing
WARNING: Extreme care shouldbe used when steering the vehicle inreverse down a slope so as not to causethe vehicle to swerve out of control.
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2023 Ranger (TFG) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 10-10-2022, enUSA, Edition date: 202208, First-PrintingDriving Hints

•Always attempt to climb a steep hillalong the fall line of the slope and notdiagonally.
•If the vehicle is unable to make it upthe hill, DO NOT attempt to turn backdown the slope. Place the vehicle inlow range and slowly back down inreverse.
•When descending a steep slope, selectlow gear and activate hill descentcontrol. Use the throttle and brakepedals to control your descent speedas described earlier in this section usinghill descent control. Hill descent controlis functional in reverse (R) and shouldbe used in this situation.
After Off-Road Driving
It is important to complete a full vehicleinspection after off-road driving. Someitems to check include:
•Check the wheels and undercarriagefor a buildup of mud or debris, whichcan cause vehicle vibration.
•Make sure that the grille and radiatorare clear of any obstructions that mayaffect cooling.
•Make sure that the brakes are in properworking order and free of any mud,stones and debris, which can becometrapped around the brake rotor,backing plate and caliper.
•Check that the air filter is clean and dry.
•Inspect for torn or punctured boots onball joints, half shafts, steering gears.
•Inspect exhaust system for damage orlooseness.
•Inspect undercarriage fasteners. If anyare loose or damaged, tighten orreplace and make sure that you use theproper torque specification.
•Inspect the wheels for dents, cracks,or other damage.
•Clear any debris from the exhaustcomponents. For example, grass or hay.
DRIVING THROUGH WATER
WARNING: Do not drive throughflowing or deep water as you may losecontrol of your vehicle.
Note:Driving through standing water cancause vehicle damage.
Note:Engine damage can occur if waterenters the air filter.
Before driving through standing water,check the depth. Never drive through waterthat is higher than the bottom of the wheelhubs.
When driving through standing water, drivevery slowly and do not stop your vehicle.Your brake performance and traction maybe limited. After driving through water andas soon as it is safe to do so:
•Lightly press the brake pedal to dry thebrakes and to check that they work.
•Check that the horn works.
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2023 Ranger (TFG) Canada/United States of America, Vehicles Built From: 10-10-2022, enUSA, Edition date: 202208, First-PrintingDriving HintsE176913