GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

The vehicle has a traction control system that limits wheel spin. This is especially useful in slippery road conditions. On a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, the system operates if it senses that one or both of the rear wheels are spinning or beginning to lose traction. On an All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) vehicle, the system will operate if it senses that any of the wheels are spinning or beginning to lose traction. When this happens, the system brakes the spinning wheel(s) and/or reduces engine power to limit wheel spin.

The system may be heard or felt while it is working, but this is normal.


Object Number: 814429  Size: A1

This warning light comes on if there is a problem with TCS.

See Traction Control System (TCS) Warning Light . When this warning light is on, the system will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly.

TCS automatically comes on whenever the vehicle is started. To limit wheel spin, especially in slippery road conditions, the system should always be left on, but TCS can be turned off if needed.

Notice: Do not repeatedly brake or accelerate heavily when TCS is off. The vehicle's driveline could be damaged.

When TCS is switched off on AWD and STS-V vehicles, the system may still be working. This is normal and necessary with the hardware on the vehicle.

It may be necessary to turn the system off if the vehicle gets stuck in sand, mud or snow and rocking the vehicle is required. See Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out and If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow for more information. See Winter Driving for information on using TCS when driving in snowy or icy conditions.


Object Number: 822626  Size: A1

To turn the system off, press the TCS/StabiliTrak button located near the shift lever.

For AWD vehicles with the Active Steering with Enhanced StabiliTrak option, the TCS/StabiliTrak button is used to turn traction control on and off and to select between three stability control modes: Touring, Competitive and Off. See Enhanced StabiliTrak® for instructions on selecting the proper stability control mode.

Press and release the TCS/StabiliTrak button and TCS will turn off and the Traction Control System Warning Light will come on. Press the button again to turn the system back on.

Adding non-GM accessories can affect the vehicle's performance. See Accessories and Modifications for more information.