Traction Control (TCS)
Traction control limits wheelspin when accelerating on slippery surfaces.
What is Traction Control (TCS)?
It uses the ABS wheel speed sensors and works together with stability control. It can usually be partly switched off, for example to get out of snow. Some systems offer modes for snow or sand that allow more wheelspin.
How it works
When a driven wheel spins faster than the others, the system brakes it and may reduce engine power.
Why it matters for your car
A flashing light while driving means the system is working. A constant light can mean a fault. Traction control helps with acceleration grip, but it does not increase cornering grip; tyres still set the limits.
Other terms
- Acoustic Glass (Laminated Side Windows)
- ADAS Calibration
- Anti-roll Bar
- Brake Light Switch
- Caravan Mover (Motor Mover)
- Cylinder Deactivation (Cylinder On Demand)
- Deceleration Fuel Cut-off (Overrun Fuel Cut)
- Harmonic Balancer (Crankshaft Damper)
- Hot Hatch
- Manual Transmission (Manual Gearbox)
- Oil Level Sensor
- Reinforced Tyres (XL, Extra Load)
- Rich Mixture
- Snow Socks (Textile Snow Chains)
- Tread Depth
- Unit Injector (Pump Injector)
- Vehicle History Report
- Vehicle Overloading
- Wheelspin
- Window Regulator