Brief description, TCS and ABS function: TCS

The TCS function in the ESP control module works by reducing engine torque (addressing a request to the Trionic) and applying the brakes on the driven wheels during TCS modulation.

Rear wheel speed is used as a reference for comparing the speed of the front wheels individually. When one of the drive wheels rotates faster than the rear wheels, the wheel is said to spin. The magnitude of this wheelspin and the speed of the car are decisive to how the system operates. Traction is given priority when wheelspin exceeds a limit value at low speeds. The system operates by applying the brakes first and limiting engine torque as a secondary measure.

The transfer of lateral forces to maintain steering ability is given priority when wheelspin exceeds a limit value at high speeds. The system then limits engine torque first and applies the brakes as a secondary measure.

A certain degree of wheelspin is always allowed so that the sporty feel and handling of the car will still be retained. This varies with the speed of the car, the friction between tires and road surface, and how "aggressively" the car is being driven (position of accelerator pedal).