GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Your vehicle has a Traction Control System (TCS) 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 reduces engine power and applies the brakes, as necessary.

Traction control helps you to keep control of the vehicle and reminds you to match your speed to the road conditions.

You may feel or hear the system working, but this is normal. The TCS is automatically turned on whenever the ignition is turned from off to on. A Low Traction message is displayed on the trip computer, indicating traction control is limiting wheel spin, until the MODE button on the trip computer is pressed. The message then goes back to the original trip computer display with a small low traction symbol on the left. The symbol will remain as long as the low traction situation exists.

To limit wheel spin, especially in slippery road conditions, you should always leave the TCS on. But you can turn the system off if you prefer.


Object Number: 1284563  Size: A3

To turn the system off, press the T/C button. On manual transmission vehicles, the button is located on the driver's side of the center console. On automatic transmission vehicles, the button is located on the passenger's side of the shift lever.

When you turn the system off, a Traction Ctrl Off message is displayed on the trip computer. After two seconds, the display goes back to the original trip computer display with a small TRAC OFF message on the right.

If the Traction Ctrl Off message does not display when the button is pressed, or if it comes on during driving, a problem is indicated in the system and traction control is no longer operational. You should contact your dealer for service.

Pressing the T/C button again or the next time the ignition is turned on, will turn the system back on. The Traction Ctrl On message is displayed on the trip computer. After two seconds, the display goes back to the original trip computer display.