Driving Your Mazda; Traction Control System ; Starting and Driving- Page 90

5-16

Driving Your Mazda

Starting and Driving

Form No. 8Q47-EA-01F

The Traction Control System (TCS) 
enhances traction and safety by regulating 
engine torque. When the TCS detects 
driving wheel slippage, it lowers engine 
torque to prevent loss of traction.

This means that on a slick surface, the 
engine adjusts automatically to provide 
optimum power to the drive wheels 
without causing them to spin and lose 
traction.

▼

TCS Indicator Light

This indicator light stays on for a few 
seconds when the ignition switch is turned 
to the ON position. If the TCS is 
operating, the indicator light flashes.

If the light stays on, the TCS may have a 
malfunction and it may not operate 
correctly. Take your vehicle to an 
Authorized Mazda Dealer.

Traction Control System 
(TCS)

TCS and Unsafe Driving:
The traction control system (TCS) 
cannot compensate for unsafe and 
reckless driving, excessive speed, 
tailgating (following another vehicle 
too closely), and hydroplaning 
(reduced tire friction and road 
contact because of water on the road 
surface). You can still have an 
accident. So don’t rely on the traction 
control system as a substitute for safe 
driving.

TCS and Snow and Ice:
Driving without proper traction 
devices on snow and ice-covered 
roads is dangerous. The traction 
control system (TCS) alone cannot 
provide adequate traction and you 
could still have an accident. Use snow 
tires or tires chains and drive at 
reduced speeds when roads are 
covered with ice and snow.

WARNING

NOTE

•

In addition to the indicator light 
flashing, a slight lugging sound will 
come from the engine. This 
indicates that the TCS is operating 
properly.

•

On slippery surfaces, such as fresh 
snow, it will be impossible to 
achieve high rpm when the TCS is 
on.

J76Y.book  Page 16  Wednesday, March 27, 2002  5:04 PM