FORD 2012 Focus Electric - Manual (Page 261)

Switching off traction control
If the vehicle is stuck in snow, mud or sand, and seems to lose power,
switching off the traction control feature of the AdvanceTrac
௡ system
may be beneficial because the wheels are allowed to spin. This will
restore full power and will enhance momentum through the obstacle.
The traction control system can be turned off through the message
center. See Message center in the Instrument Cluster chapter for more
information. If you switch off the traction control, the stability control off
light will illuminate steadily. Selecting traction control on will turn off the
stability control off light.
Steering
Your vehicle is equipped with an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system.
There is no fluid reservoir to check or fill.
If your vehicle loses electrical power while you are driving (or if the
ignition is turned off), you can steer the vehicle manually, but it takes
more effort. Under extreme usage conditions, the steering effort may
increase. This occurs to prevent overheating and permanent damage to
your steering system. If this should occur, you will neither lose the ability
to steer the vehicle manually nor will it cause permanent damage.
Typical steering and driving maneuvers will allow the system to cool and
steering assist will return to normal.
The EPS system has diagnostic checks that continuously monitor the
EPS system to ensure proper operation. When a system error is
detected, the following message STEERING ASSIST FAULT SERVICE
REQUIRED, STEERING FAULT SERVICE NOW, STEERING LOSS STOP
SAFELY may display in the multifunction display. Refer to the Message
center in the Instrument Cluster chapter for more information.
WARNING: The EPS has diagnostics checks that continuously
monitor the EPS to ensure proper operation of the electronic
system. When an electronic error is detected, the message STEERING
ASSIST FAULT SERVICE REQUIRED will be displayed in the message
center. If this happens, stop the vehicle in a safe place and turn off the
engine. After at least 10 seconds, reset the system by restarting the engine,
and watch the message center for STEERING ASSIST FAULT SERVICE
REQUIRED. If the message returns, or returns while driving, take the
vehicle to your dealer to have it checked. With the message displayed, the
steering assist is turned off, making the vehicle harder to steer.
Driving 261
2012 Focus Electric Vehicle (fob)
Owners Guide gf, 1st Printing
USA (fus)