What does TC on the car dashboard mean?
2 Answers
TC on the car dashboard stands for Traction Control, which improves the vehicle's passability. When the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) detects that some wheels are slipping, it applies braking to the slipping wheels to prevent the loss of traction. When the system is active, the yellow TC indicator light on the dashboard flashes to alert the driver. The Traction Control System is also known as the Track Control System. When braking on slippery surfaces, the wheels may slip, even causing loss of directional control. During acceleration or sudden acceleration, the drive wheels may also slip, posing a danger on icy or other slippery surfaces by causing loss of directional control. The Traction Control System is designed to address these issues.
The other day when I was driving in the rain, my tires slipped a bit during acceleration, and suddenly a dashboard light with a car icon and skid marks flashed. Later, my mechanic friend told me it's called the Traction Control System, abbreviated as TC. Its operation is straightforward—when it detects wheel slip, it automatically reduces engine power or applies brakes to the slipping wheel. Last time I drove on a dirt road in the suburbs, it effectively prevented skidding. Now, every time I drive in rain or snow, I pay close attention to that TC indicator light. Although many cars have it enabled by default, you might need to manually turn it off when trying to get out of deep snow or mud pits—there's usually a dedicated button on the dashboard. Never underestimate safety features; they can be real lifesavers in critical moments.
