What is the Traction Control Switch all about?

Most modern vehicles are equipped with anti-lock brakes and traction control. Traction control prevents unnecessary wheel spin at the drive wheels by either reducing engine power or applying the brakes slightly. An override switch may be installed in the dash in the event that the traction control needs to be turned off, which would usually be used in a situation where your vehicle is stuck in mud or snow, or for maximum acceleration purposes and a more driver-centric experience. On nearly all makes of light duty vehicles, the traction control button needs to be pressed for approximately three seconds to turn the traction control off. To re-employ traction control, a simple press of the button turns it back on. If the traction control switch is not working properly, the traction control may not turn off or back on when pressed, and a service traction control warning can illuminate on your dash. You may not be able to spin your tires to get out of a situation where you are stuck.

Keep in mind:

• If your vehicle is equipped with traction control, it is best to keep it enabled unless you need the wheels to spin to get you out of a situation, such as getting stuck in the snow.
• Traction control works in conjunction with the anti-lock brakes. If your traction control isn’t working, your anti-lock brakes won’t function either.

How it's done:

• The traction control switch is verified to be defective
• The dash center trim panel is removed for access to the switch
• The defective traction control switch is replaced with a new switch
• The dash center trip panel is re-installed and the switch is tested
• The repair is verified and the vehicle is road tested for proper operation

Our recommendation:

If the traction control switch isn’t working, have it diagnosed by one of our expert mechanics. Have the button replaced if necessary to regain the traction control’s operation.

What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Traction Control Switch?

• Traction button will not shut off the traction control
• While traction control is engaged, the service traction control warning comes on

How important is this service?

The traction control operates alongside the anti-lock brakes, and uses many of the same sensors in its operation. If the traction control switch isn’t working properly, it may affect the anti-lock brake system and result in potential safety hazards.