In 99% of circumstances, using the traction control system is important. Nevertheless, there are some instances when safety features can do more harm than good. For example, if you get stuck in the mud, sand, or even snow, you should keep it off in order to get out of the situation.
Make sure to read the complete guide for a more comprehensive understanding. This is just a brief summary.
When to Use Traction Control?
It is recommended to use traction control when starting from a stationary position on a slippery surface, driving in adverse weather, or towing a trailer to enhance traction and reduce accident risks. Traction control was actually introduced to provide extra safety when the driving condition is adverse. Let’s talk about when to use traction control.
Accelerating From A Stationary Position On A Slippery Surface
When accelerating from a stationary position on a slippery surface, the traction control can help prevent wheels from spinning and losing traction. Especially on slippery roads, the wheels may lose grip easily, causing the vehicle to slide or skid.
As soon as the vehicle starts moving, the traction control system monitors each wheel’s speed. The system applies the brakes automatically to the spinning wheel when it detects that one or more wheels are spinning faster than the others. At the same time, it reduces the engine power to get back the traction of the slipping wheel.
As a result, the vehicle moves in the desired direction and the wheels do not spin uncontrollably.
Driving In Adverse Weather
In adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, ice, etc, the traction control system is typically considered handy. Sometimes, however, you may have to turn off the traction control based on the actual situation.
However, especially when it comes to whether should the traction control be on or off in rain. The answer is you should turn the traction control on in the rain.
Similarly, if you ask should traction control be on or off in snow? The answer here is dependable on certain conditions. Traction control should typically be turned on when it snows. Nevertheless, if the snowfall is as heavy as stocking the vehicle, then turning it off is the best option.
Overall, if you feel that your vehicle is slipping or spinning freely in adverse weather conditions, it’s generally advisable to turn the traction control system on.
Driving On A Winding Road With Tight Corners
When driving on a winding road with tight corners, traction control prevents the wheels from losing traction and spinning. As a result, the vehicle doesn’t slide or lose control.
When a vehicle is cornering, the weight of the vehicle shifts towards the outside of the turn, which can cause the inside wheels to lose traction. By applying brakes to the slipping wheel and/or reducing engine power, traction control helps maintain grip.
As a result, the driver is able to maintain control of the vehicle and navigate the turn safely. Furthermore, the traction control can help optimize the vehicle’s overall stability and handling when activated on winding roads with tight corners.
Towing A Trailer Or Heavy Load
When accelerating with a trailer or heavy load, the traction control can prevent the wheels from spinning. Due to the added weight of the trailer or load, the wheels can lose traction more easily, especially on slippery surfaces.
The vehicle will be less likely to fishtail or spin out of control while being towed, and it’ll be more stable if you turn the traction control on.
Driving On Loose Gravel Or Dirt Roads
On loose gravel or dirt roads, the traction control can prevent the wheels from spinning and losing traction. A loose gravel or dirt surface can be uneven and unpredictable, making it easy for the wheels to lose grip and spin.
By applying brakes to spinning wheels, traction control redistributes power to wheels with the most traction. By doing this, the driver can maintain better control of the vehicle and reduce the risk of skidding or sliding.
A vehicle can lose traction and hydroplane when navigating through deep puddles or standing water without traction control. As a result of water layers accumulating between a tire and the road surface, hydroplaning occurs. As a result, the vehicle may skid or spin out of control. (1)
As soon as a wheel spins due to floating in the water, traction control applies brakes or reduced engine power to maintain traction and prevent hydroplaning.
Summary
When accelerating from a stopped or slippery surface, use traction control. Also, when driving on a winding road, towing a trailer, or navigating through a deep puddle, turn on traction control.
When To Use Dynamic Traction Control?
In addition to the aforementioned scenarios, the Dynamic Traction Control System can be utilized during high-performance driving due to its various modifications. Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) is a feature that’s available on many BMW vehicles. The (DTC) system includes features such as anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, and brake assist.
This feature in BMW, allows the driver to adjust the level of traction control intervention according to their preferences and driving conditions. Different settings are available, such as a sporty setting that allows more wheelspin, or a conservative setting that provides more stability.
How To Turn On Traction Control?
Typically, the traction control system automatically turns on when the vehicle is turned on. However, if the traction control is off, it can be turned back on by following a simple process. The process of turning on the traction control slightly varies depending on the specific brand and model.
How To Turn On Traction Control On Mercedes C300?
To Turn On Traction Control on the Mercedes C300 first turn on the engine. And then press and hold the “ESP” button located on the center console until the indicator light is on.
How To Turn On Traction Control On 2013 VW Passat
To turn on the traction control on a 2013 VW Passat, first, start the engine. And after that, press and hold the traction control button (located on the dashboard near the gear shift) until the traction control light turns on.
How To Turn On Traction Control On Prius?
To turn on traction control on a Prius, first, turn on the engine. And then press and hold the VSC ON button located on the dashboard until the indicator light turns on.
How To Turn On Traction Control On Tesla?
To turn on the traction control on a Tesla, first, start the engine. And next, press and hold the traction control button located on the center console until the indicator light turns on.
How To Turn On Traction Control On a 2004 Chevy Tahoe?
To turn on the traction control on a 2004 Chevy Tahoe, turn the engine on first and then press and hold the traction control button on the right console until the indicator light turns on. Once the traction control is turned on, an indicator light will appear on the dashboard to indicate that it has been turned on.
How To Turn On Traction Control On GMC Acadia?
To turn off the traction control on a GMC Acadia, turn the engine on. After that press and hold the button until the indicator light on the dashboard turns on. Some GMC Acadia models may have a button labeled “TCS/Stabilitrak” or “Stabilitrak” which you need to press and hold to turn on the traction control.
How To Know If Traction Control Is On?
You will typically find an image of a car with wavy lines or the letters TC (Traction Control) or ASC (Automatic Stability Control) on the dashboard.
If you see the indication of ”off” under the image as you can see in the image above, it means that the traction control system is currently turned off. Unless the button or switch says “off,” the system is currently on.
Typically, the light indicator is labeled “TC” “ASC” “VSC” or “ESP”. An on light on the traction control button indicates that the system is currently turned on, while an off light indicates that it’s not.
Summary
The traction control system in a car can be identified by an image of a car with wavy lines or letters TC, ASC, VSC, or ESP on the dashboard. The light indicator will be on if the system is turned on, and off if it’s not.
FAQs
Why Is My Traction Control Light On?
If the light blinks while you’re losing control, it indicates that the traction control system is functioning. If the light remains on, it either means the traction control has been turned off or there is a malfunction in the system.
When Not To Use Traction Control?
If you are stuck in mud or deep snow, don’t use traction control. There are several other situations when traction control should not be used, such as; on a race track, sporty stance, or icy hill. Always follow the service manual for specific instructions for your vehicle.
Is Traction Control Different Than ABS?
Yes, traction control is different from ABS. The key distinction between an ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a TCS (Traction Control System) is that ABS prevents wheel lock-up during braking, whereas TCS prevents wheel spin while the vehicle is running. TCS is also commonly referred to as an Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) system.
Conclusion
Well, this concludes when to use traction control. Hopefully, now you know the scope and time of using traction control while driving your car. The sensible use of a traction control system can make your driving safer and more secure.
Thanks for your patience!
