Understanding Traction Control: How It Works and When to Use It

Introduction

Traction control, also known as a traction control system (TCS), is a crucial electronic safety feature that has saved countless lives. Although frequently mentioned in advertisements, many people are still unsure about what it actually does.

In this article, we will delve into the details of traction control, its history, how it works, and when it is appropriate to adjust or turn it off.

A Brief History

The concept of traction control was first introduced by Volvo at the 1982 Geneva Motor Show. Their system detected wheel spin rates and applied the brakes to the wheels that were out of sync with the others, preventing the car from losing control on slippery surfaces. Since then, various manufacturers have developed their own versions of traction control systems.

In 2011, the European Union made it mandatory for all new cars to be equipped with traction control.

What is Traction Control?

Traction control is an electronic system designed to detect and address situations where the wheels are losing grip. It is most active during moments of low traction, such as harsh acceleration, harsh braking, or driving on slippery surfaces.

How Does Traction Control Work?

Traction control helps maintain tire grip by automatically applying the brakes or reducing engine power to individual wheels, ensuring they work together effectively. This feature replaces the need for drivers to manually manage acceleration to prevent wheelspin.

Additionally, in snowy, icy, or rainy conditions, traction control can apply the brakes to specific wheels experiencing compromised grip. It is important to note that traction control is distinct from the anti-lock braking system (ABS), which prevents wheels from locking up during braking.

The Roles of Traction Control

The primary purpose of traction control is to keep the vehicle on the road, in the intended lane, and under control. It ensures that the car turns smoothly without oversteer, providing a predictable driving experience. However, some performance car enthusiasts may choose to turn off traction control to enable drifting.

Indicators of Traction Control Activation

When traction control is engaged, a light on the dashboard will illuminate. Drivers may also feel a slight jerk in the car as torque is regulated, and the vehicle may decelerate as the brakes are applied to maintain stability. If these indicators are absent during situations where traction control should be active, it may be necessary to have the car serviced.

When to Adjust or Turn Off Traction Control

While it is generally recommended to keep traction control turned on at all times on public roads, there are circumstances where adjusting or disabling it may be appropriate. Many performance cars offer different driving modes that affect the deployment of traction control. Sport modes typically allow some slip, while race modes often disable all electronic aids.

Disabling traction control entirely may be done for the sake of enjoyment, particularly when driving on a track where no electronic interventions are desired. Additionally, in certain racing series, the use of aids like traction control is prohibited, making it necessary to disable the system for competition purposes.

By understanding traction control and its capabilities, drivers can make informed decisions about when to utilize or modify this important safety feature.

By Sachin Shaw