Traction Control System (TCS): My Car Does What

Traction Control

Works in the background to help accelerate and prevent wheel slippage (or “over-spinning”) when driving on slippery surfaces.

Traction control is most effective when accelerating from a stopped or slowed position, or when trying to accelerate up a slippery hill. This feature provides a lot of benefits to drivers, from making driving smoother to helping them stay in control of the car on icy roads or during rainy weather.

Drivers should be sure to reduce their speed and take turns more slowly when driving in slippery conditions.

What It Does

What It Does: Helps your wheels gain traction on slippery surfaces.

What It Does Not Do: Does not work as well as snow tires.

Traction Control - With Rick & Scout

Quick Guide

1. Increases Traction

Helps prevent wheels from spinningon slippery surfaces And increases tractionwhen accelerating.

2. When to turn off

Turn off Traction Control if stuck in mud or snow and need to rockthe car Or when using tire chains .

3. Engage

Traction Control will only engagewhen your wheels start to slip.

Question & Answers

What happens when I press my traction control button?

When turned off, you may notice that your vehicle handles differently than you are used to when driving on slippery surfaces. This is why you should leave your traction control on at all times.

Why would I ever need to turn off my traction control?

You should leave your traction control at all times so that you can benefit from this important safety feature. However, in very rare circumstances, you may need to turn the traction control off temporarily. These include the following:

  • You are driving in a region that requires your tires to have chains, and your vehicle’s traction control is interfering with your ability to drive.
  • Your car is trapped in very deep snow, mud or other surface in which your car cannot move out on its own. Turning off traction control while you rock your car may help you drive out faster.

Resources

Share

Like what you see? Tell your friends and family
(using #MyCarDoesWhat on Facebook and Twitter)

Share this safety feature

Let Us Know Your Thoughts

Have any insights, questions or comments? We'd love to hear from you!

Related Safety Features

Anti-Lock Braking System

Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) help you steer in emergencies by restoring traction to your tires.

Learn More

Electronic Stability Control

Helps prevent loss of control in curves and emergency steering maneuvers by stabilizing your car when it begins to veer off your intended path.

Learn More
Explore more safety features