Mazda 3 Owners Manual: Traction Control System (TCS)
The Traction Control System (TCS) enhances traction and safety by controlling engine torque and braking. When the TCS detects driving wheel slippage, it lowers engine torque and operates the brakes to prevent loss of traction.
This means that on a slick surface, the engine adjusts automatically to provide optimum power to the drive wheels, limiting wheel spin and loss of traction.
The warning light turns on when the system has a malfunction.
Refer to Warning Lights on .
| WARNING
Do not rely on the Traction Control
System (TCS) as a substitute for safe
driving:
The Traction Control System (TCS)
cannot compensate for unsafe and
reckless driving, excessive speed,
tailgating (following another vehicle
too closely), and hydroplaning
(reduced tire friction and road contact
because of water on the road surface). You can still have an accident. Use snow tires or tire chains and drive at reduced speeds when roads are covered with ice and/or snow: Driving without proper traction devices on snow and/or ice-covered roads is dangerous. The Traction Control System (TCS) alone cannot provide adequate traction and you could still have an accident. |
NOTE To turn off the TCS, press the DSC OFF switch .
TCS/DSC Indicator Light
This indicator light stays on for a few seconds when the ignition is switched ON. If the TCS or DSC is operating, the indicator light flashes.
If the light stays on, the TCS, DSC or the brake assist system may have a malfunction and they may not operate correctly. Take your vehicle to an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
NOTE
- In addition to the indicator light flashing, a slight lugging sound will come from the engine. This indicates that the TCS/DSC is operating properly.
- On slippery surfaces, such as fresh snow, it will be impossible to achieve high rpm when the TCS is on.
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
The ABS control unit continuously
monitors the speed of each wheel. If
one wheel is about to lock up, the ABS
responds by automatically releasing and
reapplying that wheel's brake.
The driver w ...
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC)
The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
automatically controls braking and engine
torque in conjunction with systems such
as ABS and TCS to help control side slip
when driving on slippery surfaces, or ...
Other materials:
Oil Seal (Control Valve Body) Replacement [Fw6 A EL]
1. Remove the battery cover..
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable..
3. Remove the air cleaner component..
4. Disconnect the control valve body connector.
5. Remove the hose clamp.
6. Cut the oil seal using a utility knife as shown in the following illustration.
CAUTION: ...
Front Lower Arm Inspection
1. Remove the front lower arm from the vehicle..
2. Inspect the arm for bending or damage, and the ball joint for excessive looseness.
If there is any malfunction, replace the front lower arm.
3. Rotate the ball joint stud 5 times. Install the SST to the ball
joint stud, measure t ...
Map Light Bulb Removal/Installation
1. Disconnect the negative battery cable..
2. Insert a tape-wrapped fastener remover into the service hole and pry with
the screwdriver in the direction shown by the arrow to remove the lens.
3. Remove the map light bulb.
4. Install in the reverse order of removal. ...
