GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Your vehicle has a traction control system that limits wheel spin. This is especially useful in slippery road conditions. The system operates only if it senses that one or both of the rear wheels are spinning or beginning to lose traction. When this happens, the system works the rear brakes and reduces engine power to limit wheel spin.

The TRAC SYSTEM ACTIVE message will display on the Driver Information Center (DIC) when the traction control system is limiting wheel spin. See DIC Warnings and Messages . You may feel or hear the system working, but this is normal.

If your vehicle is in cruise control when the traction control system begins to limit wheel spin, the cruise control will automatically disengage. When road conditions allow you to safely use it again, you may reengage the cruise control. See Adaptive Cruise Control .


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This warning light will come on to let you know if there is a problem with your traction control system.

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

The traction control system automatically comes on whenever you start your vehicle. To limit wheel spin, especially in slippery road conditions, you should always leave the system on. But you can turn the traction control system off if you ever need to. You should turn the system off if your vehicle ever 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.


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To turn the system off, press the front part of the traction control button located on the center console.

The TRACTION SYSTEM-OFF message will display on the DIC and the traction control system warning light will come on. If the system is limiting wheel spin when you press the button, the TRACTION SYSTEM-OFF message will display - but the system will not turn off right away. It will wait until there is no longer a current need to limit wheel spin.

You can turn the system back on at any time by pressing the button again. The TRACTION SYSTEM-ON message should display briefly on the Driver Information Center.