TCS (Traction Control System) Operation
- This system is designed to limit wheel slip during acceleration by cutting fuel to selected engine cylinders and changing the transmission shift schedule.
The ABS actuator and electric unit (control unit) monitors wheel speed slips through the ABS wheel speed sensors and determines the desired torque reduction needed to minimize wheel spin.
The torque reduction by the ABS actuator and electric unit (control unit) may result in a combination of fuel cutoff and transmission shift timing adjustments.
The torque reduction is sent from the ABS actuator and electric unit (control unit) through the CAN (Controller Area Network) to the ECM and the TCM. The ECM will cut fuel and/or the TCM will change transmission shift schedule to achieve torque reduction.
The TCS will be enabled when the TCS switch is in the ON position (TCS OFF indicator not illuminated), and if the catalytic converter temperature is within the normal operating range.
- During TCS operation, the system informs the driver of system operation by flashing the SLIP indicator lamp.
- This system has a self-diagnostic function. When the ignition switch is initially turned ON, the SLIP indicator lamp and TCS OFF indicator lamp will illuminate. If the ABS/TCS system is operating correctly, both indicator lamps will go out as soon as the engine starts.
- The TCS OFF switch cancels the TCS function. The TCS OFF indicator lamp then illuminates to indicate that the TCS system is not operating.
- This system utilizes a fuel-cut function to control drive torque. If fuel cut continues for an extended period of time during high-speed operation, the catalyst may melt and deteriorate. During continued TCS operation, the system will sometimes suspend the drive torque control function, preventing catalyst damage.