Everything You Need to Know About Traction

A Complete Guide to Understanding

Traction Control

at Taylor Chevrolet GMC

Experiencing a smooth drive during your journeys in Tennessee and beyond is paramount, but changing weather conditions and varying road surfaces can put that to the test.

Have you ever felt that unnerving slide as your vehicle loses grip on a wet or icy road, or heard your tires desperately spinning when you accelerate? That's traction -- or a lack thereof -- at play.

At our GMC and Chevrolet dealership in Martin, we're here to shed light on the importance of traction for your vehicle, no matter its make, model or age. Let's explore what you need to know about traction control systems and how they are instrumental in maintaining your safety on the go.

Traction image
Traction wheel image

What Is Traction Control?

Our dedicated team at Taylor Chevrolet GMC has dived deep into the engineering world to bring you insights into how traction control works tirelessly to ensure your vehicle maintains grip. Regardless of whether you're behind the wheel of a trusty GMC Sierra 1500 truck or a sleek Chevy Equinox SUV, a traction control system is your unsung hero on slippery surfaces, diligently working to limit wheel spin and help you find that essential grip in a variety of situations that require it.

Traction Control Systems: Optimized for Every Drive

Every vehicle comes with its unique traction requirements, and engineers have spent countless hours perfecting traction control specifications for each scenario. Whether you're dealing with slick roads or tricky low-friction terrain like mud or gravel, a traction control system is designed to apply brakes to spinning wheels or modulate engine power, so you regain stability swiftly.

Traction brakes

Understanding Traction Across Drivetrains

It's important to note that traction control varies across different drivetrain systems. In front-wheel-drive vehicles, a traction control system leaps into action if it detects slip in the front wheels. For those with all-wheel-drive capabilities, the system monitors all wheels for any signs of lost traction.

Safety is Paramount -- Traction Control Enhances It

While traction control is a stellar safety feature, it's not a substitute for safe driving practices. Remember, it doesn't replace the need to drive cautiously-- avoid speeding, maintain a safe following distance and steer clear of abrupt lane changes, especially under challenging weather or road conditions.

Empower Your Drive with Traction Control On/Off Flexibility

Sometimes you might find yourself in a situation -- like being stuck in snow -- where allowing your wheels to spin is beneficial. That's when the ability to deactivate your traction control system comes in handy. With a simple toggle, it’s easy to gain the edge required to get moving again.

Wheel Traction