Seeing through the jargon: This week, what is a Traction Control System?
TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM
A common option on many cars today, particularly the more sporty models, traction control is one of the many advances from the world of Formula One. The system "senses" when one of the driving tyres has no traction. It then tries to compensate by slowing the wheel movement. The aim is to give the best traction possible in slippery surfaces.
It shares many of the mechanical and electronic elements of anti-lock brakes (ABS) and is great for getting traction in rain, on gravel or snow . Each wheel searches for optimum traction several times a second and adjustments are made accordingly. All-speed traction control prevents wheel spin by reducing engine output in conjunction with the electronic braking system.
Another system, traction assist, works below 25 mph, and is used to avoid wheel spin while accelerating from a stop on slippery surfaces. This system does not reduce engine output, but relies on electronic brake application for spin control.
The system detects the relative wheel speed difference between the driven and non-driven wheels.
It then controls the wheel spin by applying the brakes to one of the wheels, closing the throttle, or even adjusting the air/fuel ratio, thereby reducing the torque from any spinning wheel and improving traction.