What does the TC indicator light on the vehicle dashboard mean?
2 Answers
When the TC indicator light appears on the vehicle dashboard, it indicates a malfunction in the traction control system. Immediate repair is required in such cases, as failure to do so may affect the vehicle's driving stability and safety. The traction control system is an essential component in a car, primarily designed to apply braking to slipping wheels, preventing the vehicle from skidding and maintaining stability. When the ABS anti-lock braking system detects wheel slippage, the traction control system activates to brake the slipping wheels, preventing loss of traction. The control unit of the traction control system is a computer that monitors the speed of all four wheels and the steering wheel's turning angle. During acceleration, if the computer detects a significant speed difference between the drive wheels and non-drive wheels, it immediately determines excessive driving force and sends a signal to reduce the engine's fuel supply, thereby decreasing the driving force and reducing the slip rate of the drive wheels.
The TC light on my car came on twice. The first time it flashed a few times on a slippery road and then turned off normally, but later it stayed on constantly on dry roads, which started to worry me. TC stands for Traction Control indicator, designed to activate when the wheels slip to help stabilize the direction and prevent skidding. However, if it stays on continuously, it might not be a normal intervention but a system fault, such as a sensor malfunction or circuit issue. I remember once during a check-up, it turned out that the left front wheel sensor was clogged with mud, and it returned to normal after cleaning. I suggest you immediately observe the road conditions. If the light stays on when the road isn't slippery, don't rush to drive fast; slowly pull over and check the user manual to confirm if the switch was accidentally turned off. Alternatively, use a mobile app to read the fault codes for a simple diagnosis. If that doesn't work, just go straight to a repair shop and let the mechanic test it with professional tools. Don't take this small indicator lightly, as driving without traction control in rain or snow can easily lead to loss of control. A friend of mine almost had an accident because of this. Timely action ensures safe driving.
