Electronic Traction Control

Electronic Traction Control (ETC) attempts to optimize forward traction by reducing engine torque or braking a spinning wheel until traction is restored.

ETC is activated if an individual wheel speed is above that of the vehicle reference speed (positive slip) and the brake pedal is not pressed. The spinning wheel is braked, allowing the excess torque to be transmitted to the non spinning wheels through the drive line. If necessary, the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) control module also transmits a High Speed (HS) Controller Area Network (CAN) chassis bus message to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) requesting a reduction in engine torque.

When the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) function is selected off with the DSC switch, the engine torque reduction feature is disabled.

When the ETC function is active the ABS control module also signals the Transmission Control Module (TCM) to prevent gear shifts.