FORD 2002 Taurus v.2 - Manual (Page 149)

The system operates by detecting and controlling wheel spin. The system
borrows many of the electronic and mechanical elements already present
in the anti-lock braking system (ABS).
Wheel-speed sensors allow excess front wheel spin to be detected by the
Traction Control
௢ portion of the ABS computer. Any excessive wheel
spin is controlled by automatically applying and releasing the front
brakes in conjunction with engine torque reductions. Engine torque
reduction is realized via the fully electronic spark and fuel injection
systems. This process is very sensitive to driving conditions and very fast
acting. The front wheels “search” for optimum traction several times a
second and adjustments are made accordingly.
The Traction Control
௢ system will allow your vehicle to make better use
of available traction on slippery surfaces. The system is a driver aid
which makes your vehicle easier to handle primarily on snow, ice covered
and gravel roads.
During Traction Control
௢ operation,
the traction control active light will
illuminate, you may hear an electric
motor type of sound coming from
the engine compartment and the
engine will not “rev-up” when you push further on the accelerator. This
is normal system behavior.
The Traction Control
௢ on/off
switch, located on the right side of
the instrument cluster, illuminates
OFF when the system is turned
OFF. The Traction Control
௢ system
will revert to the ON position every
time the ignition is turned OFF and
ON.
If you should become stuck in snow or ice or on a very slippery road
surface, try switching the Traction Control
௢ system off. This may allow
excess wheel spin to “dig” the vehicle out and enable a successful
“rocking” maneuver.
If a system fault is detected the traction control active light will
illuminate, the Traction Control
௢ on/off switch will not toggle on and off,
and your vehicle should be serviced as soon as possible.
T/C
O
F
F
Driving
149