4Runner Traction Control Issues

[icechunder]

Hey all,

Having traction problems with my 2004 4Runner, especially during the wet weather. When I hit the brakes during the rain at very moderate speeds (15-25) they sometimes bottom out while vibrating loudly---warning lights come on for DAC (the green truck on the hill image) and it becomes almost impossible to handle with steering. This happened before on packed snow and ice and it was only due to sheer luck that I didn't hit anyone sliding through an intersection.

My mechanic reset the traction control using the commands on the remote control alarm, but during wet weather it is plain dangerous. Anyone ever heard of this happening with these Toyotas?

 

[Speedy Gomez]

:welcome: to T4R.ORG

 

[fourwd1]

Welcome to T4R.
I moved your post to the correct section.

 

[HokieRunner]

Hey all,

Having traction problems with my 2004 4Runner, especially during the wet weather. When I hit the brakes during the rain at very moderate speeds (15-25) they sometimes bottom out while vibrating loudly---warning lights come on for DAC (the green truck on the hill image) and it becomes almost impossible to handle with steering. This happened before on packed snow and ice and it was only due to sheer luck that I didn't hit anyone sliding through an intersection.

My mechanic reset the traction control using the commands on the remote control alarm, but during wet weather it is plain dangerous. Anyone ever heard of this happening with these Toyotas?

Sounds like the abs kicking in. Just out of curiosity, what type of tires do you have, are they in good condition, etc?

On ice/packed snow, the 4runner traction systems can be less than favorable. ..To the extent that some folks have disabled those systems for certain driving conditions they basically put a cut off switch in-line of the controls.

If we had more information on tire condition, how you're braking (ie. easing on the pedal or stomping the brakes).

The abs is going to kick in when it senses traction loss. IMO, the 4runner has one of the worst ABS systems I've experienced in winter conditions. Definitely takes a driving style adjustment. In dry conditions the ABS is fine.

 

[preacher35]

I agree with Hokierunner. It sounds like your ABS is kicking in which, because of that low speed, brings into question the status of your tires. Please disclose the tread depth of your front tires.

 

[Tooltime19]

Yep! Old tires become hard over time giving them less grip overall. This is due to the actual tire compound getting old and dry. Also cheap tires again may have a cheaper harder tire compound giving lousy grip on all surfaces. Mismatched tire treads and tire sizing will cause your issues. Lastly tire pressures play a role in what you are experiencing.
Dont forget front end alignment and worn chassis parts.