A lot of drivers, for instance, may not understand the role of the traction control system (TCS) which is crucial in enabling the vehicle to maintain perpendicular stability, particularly while driving under unfavorable conditions. Be it rainfall, snow, or clearly slippery roads, your vehicle’s TCS plays a huge part in ensuring you remain on track. In this blog, we will define the traction control system in a car and its functioning, what problems could arise, and how to deal with it in case of a traction control system repair.
What is a Traction Control System (TCS)?
In layman’s terms, traction control system meaning is a modern vehicle feature designed to increase safety as it spins out wheels while the car accelerates. It automates throttle and brake intervention for each wheel helping the slipping wheel regain its grip, allowing the car engine to keep powering the vehicle. Therefore, it is specially designed to ensure great wheel and road contact, which is particularly useful when driving over wet or icy roads. The deletion of the TCS feature also disables the Anti-lock Braking System. While TCS prevents the wheels from spinning during acceleration, wheel slip or spin is controlled while the vehicle is driving.
Why is my Traction Control Light Staying on Constantly?
In the modern age of vehicles, drivers often question why is my traction control light staying on constantly glowing. If the light comes on and stays on, it usually means that there is a problem. Here are a few possibilities:
Defective Traction Control Sensor: A broken wheel speed sensor can cause the traction control light to come on and stay on forever. The traction control sensor location is usually located very near the wheels, and damage to these sensors can lead to erroneous readings.
Problems with the Control Module: In the event that the control module of the car is damaged, the traction control system would fail, causing the light to stay on until fixed. The same result will be achieved if there’s a broken wire somewhere in the system.
Problems with ABS: Since the TCS works with the ABS functioning, the opposite being broken will have this system working. Failure of the ABS system will definitely turn the traction control light on.
Mechanical Problems: Failure in the brake system has a tendency to light up the ominous traction control light. Other problems with her system, such as low brake fluid, can also trigger this warning sign.
Traction Control Sensor and its Function
The traction control sensor is an important part of the traction control system’s functionality. The sensor does this by measuring the wheel rotation and reporting it to the system’s computer. If the system identifies that a wheel is overspinning or sliding, the system will reduce the engine power or brake the specific wheel. An inaccurate sensor could lead to incorrect readings which can cause the traction control light to remain on or not work at all when needed.
Simple Steps to Reset the Traction Control Light
When the traction control light is on, it can be very annoying, but it can often be reset in a car using the following steps:
1. Turn Off Radiator. To ensure proper resetting of the traction control light, turn off the car's engine and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
2. Look for Problems. Look for some problems, for instance: low fluid levels of the brakes, an ABS system that is not functioning, etc. Always make sure these are taken care of to mechanically reset the control light.
3. Restart the vehicle. Start the engine and drive the car. In some cases, the light professional assistance.
Traction Control Light On and Car is Jerking
There are many problems that can arise if your traction control light on and car is jerking. The jerking motion is most common when the traction control system is currently active and trying to reduce the amount of wheel spin. In this case, it may be possible that the traction control system is trying to help by putting brakes on the wheels that are spinning out of control and so subsequently, there is no proper traction. The situation could be that there are too many slippery conditions or some sort of component failure and so making the system work harder than it should be.
Repair of Traction Control System
Your traction control system can need repair if they aren’t working properly. It mainly depends on the specific problem. Repairs can vary from changing a traction control sensor, to replacing the entire control module or even fixing the damaged wires, so it can be much more difficult than just a simple cleanup. Some common problems that can arise which require a repair for the traction control system:
Malfunctioning Sensors: If the traction control sensors have been damaged, then the entire system will stop working. Putting in a new sensor will solve the problem.
Worn Out ABS Components: These components have to work together as TCS collaborates with the ABS so problems with either can lead to trouble with the traction control system also.
Control Module Failure: This control module manages the processing of sensors’ data as well as controlling the traction system. In some cases, the control module is damaged and needs to be changed to regain functionality of the system.
Traction Control System Repair Cost
The price in repairing the traction control system varies depending on the model of the automobile, the underlying problem of the issue, and if there are parts that require substitution. In general, repairs for the traction control system in Bangladesh can go from $100 to $500 plus. If the issue is associated with a wiring or a sensor, then the cost of repairs would most likely be on the lower end of the spectrum. However, if the control module needs to be replaced along with other major components, then the value is likely higher.
How to Fix ABS and Traction Control Light ON
If both the traction control light, as well as the ABS light are on at the same time, then the problem could lie within the two systems. The problem is most commonly associated with the ABS having problems and the control of the traction control becomes affected, too. To deal with this problem:
Check for broken sensors: Look over the ABS as well as the traction control sensors and see if there is any sort of wear and tear. If there are, then replacing them will usually fix the issue.
Examine Your Brake System: Problems with the brake fluid or brake parts can impact both systems, which is why examining the brake system on their own is necessary.
Consult a Mechanic: Should you fail to source a solution to the problem, seeking the assistance of a mechanic to help you identify and fix the problem may be appropriate.
Traction Control System Problems and Solutions
Over time, the system in any vehicle such as the traction control system is bound to develop problems. Here are some common issues along with their solutions.
Problem: The traction control light remains illuminated Solution: Check the integrity of the traction control sensors and the ABS brake system. Furthermore, try resetting the system or have it inspected professionally if no resolution comes forward.
Problem: When the traction control light is on, the vehicle jerks Solution: The root cause for this may be wheel slip which is over the set limits. Inspect the wheels and tires for wear, and make sure the system is properly calibrated.
Problem: Traction control system malfunction Solution: Seek professional help who will be able to check the sensors, control module, or ABS system.
Final Thoughts: Maintain Control
The traction control system is one of the most important aspects of a vehicle's safety systems. It acts in a way to maintain traction while the car is in motion on slippery or uneven surfaces in order to mitigate loss of control. Although its functioning is impressive, it is also bound to have issues that need troubleshooting. For this reason, if you are noticing any signs such as the traction control light always being on, consider seeking professional aid to diagnose the problem. Get in touch with us if you need to repair a malfunctioning traction control system or you require assistance with diagnosing and resolving other issues. At Biswas Automobiles, we handle traction control system repairs and diagnostics. We take pride in delivering exceptional service. Let us know if you require a consultation for the repair of your traction control system.
