2020 Aviator Reserve - Stiff Ride & 'Service AdvanceTrac' Message

ClearTheCode admin answer:

It sounds like your 2020 Lincoln Aviator Reserve is experiencing a common issue where the adaptive suspension system and the AdvanceTrac system are interconnected, and a fault in one can affect the other. The AdvanceTrac system relies heavily on wheel speed sensors, steering angle sensors, and the vehicle's yaw rate sensor, all of which are crucial for both stability control and often for adaptive suspension operation.

Here are some steps and potential causes:

1. Check for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): The first and most important step is to connect an OBD-II scanner to your vehicle. Look for C-codes (Chassis codes) and potentially U-codes (Network codes). Common codes related to this issue might include:

   • C0031-C0034: Wheel speed sensor faults (for front-left, front-right, rear-left, rear-right respectively). A faulty wheel speed sensor can trick the AdvanceTrac system into thinking there's a loss of traction, and also impact adaptive suspension's ability to react correctly.
   • C0051: Steering angle sensor fault.
   • U0401 or similar: Communication error with a control module (e.g., Suspension Control Module, ABS module).
   • Specific codes related to the Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) system, which is Lincoln's adaptive suspension.

2. Inspect Wheel Speed Sensors: Visually inspect the wiring and connectors for each wheel speed sensor. Sometimes, debris, corrosion, or physical damage can cause intermittent signals or complete failure.

3. Tire Pressure: While less likely to cause a 'Service AdvanceTrac' message directly, incorrect tire pressure can affect ride quality and potentially influence stability control systems. Ensure all tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure.

4. Suspension Component Inspection: Look for any obvious signs of damage or leaks around the struts/shocks, especially if your Aviator has air suspension components. A failing sensor on a strut could also be a culprit.

When to See a Shop:

• If you don't have an OBD-II scanner or are uncomfortable performing the checks yourself.
• If the diagnostic codes point to a complex issue like a faulty control module (e.g., ABS module, Suspension Control Module).
• If visual inspection doesn't reveal any obvious problems, but the issue persists.
• Any time you experience a significant change in vehicle handling or braking performance, as these systems are critical for safety.

Addressing this promptly is important, as the AdvanceTrac system is a key safety feature, and a compromised adaptive suspension can lead to premature wear on other components.