A traction control system (TCS), on current production vehicles, are typically (but not necessarily) electro-hydraulic systems designed to prevent loss of traction (and therefore the control of the vehicle) when excessive throttle or steering is applied by the driver. Although similar to Electronic Stability Control systems, Traction Control systems do not have the same goal.
The intervention can consist of any, or all, of the following:
- Retard or suppress the spark to one or more cylinders
- Reduce fuel supply to one or more cylinders
- Brake one or more wheels
- Close the throttle, if the vehicle is fitted with drive by wire throttle.
- In turbo-charged vehicles, the boost control solenoid can be actuated to reduce boost and therefore engine power.
Typically, the Traction Control system shares the brake actuator and the wheel speed sensors with the anti-lock braking system.
Filed under: Active safety | Tagged: auto, car, safety
