Identifying a Traction Control Module Failure in Your Mercedes in Santa Cruz

Mercedes vehicles are known for their stability on the road, no matter the conditions. You know your Mercedes will stay the course. The traction control module helps your vehicle avoid “over-spinning” its wheels on a slippery surface. So when the traction control on your Mercedes fails, it will be difficult to maintain control during less than ideal weather conditions.

When you accelerate quickly from stopped or slow positions, the traction control will ensure that your tires do not lose traction with the slick road. The same goes for if you are trying to go up a slippery hill. This is why it is so important to maintain this system if it becomes faulty.

The traction control system (TCS) consists of:

• The wheel speed sensors, which monitor the rotational speed of each wheel.
• The solenoids, which isolate certain brake circuits.
• The electric pump and high-pressure accumulator, which applies brakes to the wheels that are losing traction.

The benefits of traction control are undeniable, as you stay in control of the vehicle in adverse weather conditions. Traction Control will only engage when your wheels start to slip. Wheel-speed sensors will detect when one wheel is slipping or losing traction, so the system will then reduce power or apply the brakes to that wheel.

The TCS system works with the Antilock Braking System (ABS.) So, some signs of a fault may be the same for both.

Warning Signs of a Faulty TCS

• Traction Control System Warning Indicator Light: When the system is failing, a warning light on the dashboard will turn on. When this happens, it is an indication that there is a serious issue with your vehicle. This will have to be diagnosed and resolved by a Mercedes professional urgently. Troubleshooting codes will be displayed on your dashboard, and a professional repair center will be able to assist with resolving the issue.
• Loss of Traction Control System (TCS) Features: You will notice that the TCS is failing when it becomes more difficult to maintain control of the vehicle in adverse conditions. If your tires slip or cannot grain traction in snow or rainy weather, bring your car to us immediately to ensure your safety on the road.
• Loss of Antilock Brake System (ABS) features: The TSC and the ABS share a module. Therefore, it stands to reason that if the TCS has failed, then there should be some loss of ABS functionality. When this happens, you will have to take your foot off the accelerator, slow down, and then try to reapply the brake to get your car to stop. This manual pumping of the brakes is not ideal, as most drivers stomp on the brake and hold it there. Your brakes can lock up with this method; hence, the creation of the antilock brake system to safely bring you to a stop. If your TCM and antilock brake system fails, it is best to call for a tow to a trusted Mercedes service center, for your safety and those around you on the road.
• Differences in Performance: If your car becomes unmanageable in wet conditions or any other adverse weather conditions, then the traction control system will need to be repaired. How this system failure affects you will depend on the type of car you are driving, how you drive the car, and in what conditions you generally drive your car. The decrease in performance of your car will be noticeable, as you will almost have to fight with the tires and possibly brakes as you try to make your commute.

The Best Mercedes Service Center in Santa Cruz

At Hayes European, we pride ourselves on our excellent customer service. When you walk into our shop, we treat you like a VIP. We take the time to understand your issue and give you peace of mind that your vehicle is in the best hands in our area.

We have proudly serviced Santa Cruz 1995 as well as Aptos, Soquel, and Capitola, CA. Our expert technicians are trained and certified and specialize in Volvo, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Audi, BMW, Porsche, Sprinter Van. Call or visit us today at 1010 17TH Avenue in Santa Cruz, CA. We look forward to earning your business.

* Mercedes-Benz Car image credit goes to: teddyleung.