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144
TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM
The traction control system automatically helps control
the spinning of the front wheels which may occur when
accelerating on slippery road surfaces, thus assisting
driver to control the driver to control the driving power
of the front wheels.
When you turn the ignition switch on, this system
always turns on. Leave the system on during ordinary
driving so that it can operate when needed. When
traction control is applied, the slip indicator light
blinks.
You can turn off the traction control system by pushing
the ªTRAC OFFº switch. The ªTRAC OFFº
indicator/warning light will then come on. Pushing the
ªTRAC OFFº switch a second time turns the system
back on and extingusihes the ªTRAC OFFº
indicator/warning light.
You may hear a slight clicking noise in the engine
compartment when the engine is started. This means that
the traction control system is in the self±check mode, and
does not indicate malfunction. When the traction control
system is operating, you may feel vibation or noise of your
vehicle, caused byoperation of the brakes. This indicates the
system is functioning properly.
When getting the vehicle out of the mud or new snow, etc.
the traction control system will help operate to prevent the
wheels from spinning.
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146
Anti±lock brake system
The anti±lock brake system is designed to automatically
prevent lock±up of the wheels during a sudden brake or
braking on slippery road surfaces. This assists in
providing directional stability and steering performance
of the vehicle under these circumstances.
The anti±lock brake system becomes operative after the
vehicle has accelerated to a speed in excess of approximately
10 km/h (6 mph). It stops operating when the vehicle
decelerates to a speed below approximately 5 km/h (3 mph).
You may hear a sound in the engine compartment for a few
seconds when the engine is started or just after the vehicle
is started. This means that the anti±lock brake system is in
the self check mode, and does not indicate a malfunction.
Effective way to press the ABS brake pedal: When the
anti±lock brake system function is in action, you may feel
the brake pedal pulsating and hear a noise. In this situa-
tion, to let the anti±lock brake system work for you, just
hold the brake pedal down more firmly. Do not pump the
brake. This will result in reduced braking performance.
The brake pedal pulsation caused by the anti±lock brake
system may indicate hazardous road surface conditions.
Although the anti±lock brake system assists in providing
vehicle control, it is still important to drive with all due care,
because the anti±lock brake system cannot overcome the
laws of physics that act on your vehicle:
Braking capability is dependent on tire friction with the road
surface.
Even though the anti±lock brake system is operating, a
driver cannot maintain full control on certain slippery road
surfaces, when cornering at high speeds, or in violent
maneuvers.
Avoid high speeds on wet roads. The anti±lock brake
system cannot eliminate the risk of hydroplaning and loss
of tire friction.
Always maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of
you. Compared with vehicles not fitted with an anti±lock
brake system, your vehicle may require a longer stopping
distance in the following cases:
Driving on rough, gravel or snow±covered roads.
Driving with tire chains installed.
Driving on roads where the road surface is pitted or has
other differences in surface height.
