How to Troubleshoot the Traction Control on a Lincoln Navigator
by Patrick Nelson
Ford's Lincoln Navigator has an optionally supplied Traction Control System, which Ford calls TCS. TCS electronically avoids wheel-spin and loss of traction. It is part of the AdvanceTrac stability enhancement package that also includes electronic stability control, which helps prevent skids or lateral slides, and roll stability for electronically avoiding a roll-over. Problems with TCS can include issues with its operation, warning lights and the braking functionality not working.
Step 1
Turn the TCS system off if the Navigator loses power when the vehicle is stuck in sand, snow or mud. The system is on by default at start-up, but can be disabled by pressing the "Stability Control" button. The "Stability Control" light will illuminate steadily when the system is off. Turning it off will provide you with more power and allow the wheels to spin, which you may need to get out of the trouble situation.
Step 2
Wait for the brakes to cool down if the TCS automatically switches off. TCS works by implementing engine traction control and braking traction control. Sometimes, the TCS becomes very active and this can overheat the brakes. In that case the Navigator will turn off the braking TCS element, and only use the engine TCS element. You can either continue with only the engine element, or stop and allow the brakes to cool down so that you can use both elements again.
Step 3
Move off again after the "Stability Control" light has stopped flashing for full TCS functionality. The flashing signals a TCS event, such as the braking function being disabled.
References
Writer Bio
Patrick Nelson has been a professional writer since 1992. He was editor and publisher of the music industry trade publication "Producer Report" and has written for a number of technology blogs. Nelson studied design at Hornsey Art School.
