What does TC mean when it appears on a car?
2 Answers
When TC appears on a car, it indicates that the Traction Control System is active. During braking on slippery roads or rapid acceleration when starting, wheels are prone to skidding or even losing directional control, which can be dangerous. To address such safety concerns, the Traction Control System was developed, relying on the electronic sensors of the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). When the Traction Control System detects that the speed of the driven wheels is lower than that of the driving wheels, indicating wheel skid, it sends a feedback signal to the car's system. The car's system then adjusts the ignition timing, reduces the throttle opening, decreases the throttle, downshifts, or applies the brakes to prevent wheel skidding.
I remember last time when I was driving in the rain, the TC light suddenly came on, which gave me quite a scare. TC stands for Traction Control system, which automatically monitors wheel slip, such as preventing loss of control on slippery roads. I usually drive in the city for my daily commute, and in such situations, I just slow down to ensure safe driving. If the light stays on or flashes, it might indicate a system malfunction, like a dirty sensor or loose wiring. In that case, it's best to head to the repair shop for a check-up. As a daily driver, my advice to beginners is not to panic when the light comes on—just pay attention to the road conditions. Regular maintenance can also help prevent issues.
