Traction control issues?

[ddicosmo]

I've been wondering if the traction control on my 08 SR5 V6 4x4 is working properly. I live up in New Hampshire where it snows alot. I havent' had my T4R that long so I'm still trying to figure out all the things it can do. I've noticed that when there is snow on the ground and I accelerate to the point where I can spin the tires, the traction control comes on (orange blinking light on dash) by making a clicking sound and cutting power. Is this how it is supposed to work? The traction control system on the T4R seems really primitive in that it bogs the motor down in order to gain traction again. This seems like a very dangerous way of implementing this. In one instance, I was trying to pull out onto a main road when the traction control kicked in and bogged down the motor. It feels almost as if the truck is going to stall and then it picks up again. This is a very uneasy feeling when pulling out into oncoming traffic. Is this how the system is supposed to work or could mine be defective? Also, how can I shut it off? I tried pushing the button with the picture of the car with tire marks on it (not sure what it was called?) and the traction control still kicked in. What do I need to do to completely shut it off?

Finally, I've noticed this behavior in both 2H and 4H. Thanks,

Dave.

 

[chaz]

this may work for you, How To Turn Off Vsc For Offroading ?

 

[Greydog]

Yes, that sounds typical. I tend to run it in 4Hi just to reduce the VSC from over-reacting when its snowy/icy our or even heavy rain.

 

[JB.]

I've been wondering if the traction control on my 08 SR5 V6 4x4 is working properly. I live up in New Hampshire where it snows alot. I havent' had my T4R that long so I'm still trying to figure out all the things it can do. I've noticed that when there is snow on the ground and I accelerate to the point where I can spin the tires, the traction control comes on (orange blinking light on dash) by making a clicking sound and cutting power. Is this how it is supposed to work? The traction control system on the T4R seems really primitive in that it bogs the motor down in order to gain traction again. This seems like a very dangerous way of implementing this. In one instance, I was trying to pull out onto a main road when the traction control kicked in and bogged down the motor. It feels almost as if the truck is going to stall and then it picks up again. This is a very uneasy feeling when pulling out into oncoming traffic. Is this how the system is supposed to work or could mine be defective? Also, how can I shut it off? I tried pushing the button with the picture of the car with tire marks on it (not sure what it was called?) and the traction control still kicked in. What do I need to do to completely shut it off?

Finally, I've noticed this behavior in both 2H and 4H. Thanks,

Dave.

The nomenclature gets used inconsistently so I'll use descriptions, instead. Only two basic things are involved: (1) Engine suppression (2) brake pulsing. Brake pulsing gets implemented towards various goals which adds to the list of fancy names and acronyms.

(1) Put it in 4wd for the duration of the winter. Mpg difference will be nearly unnoticeable. You have an 08 so you have a button to turn off engine suppression. Not sure what it says. Either TRAC OFF or VSC OFF, I think.

(2) For maximum traction (to be used briefly) lock the center diff (button with 4 wheels, fronts turned). It should lock quickly and easily any time the wheels are pretty straight. This will turn off sideways skid control and engine suppression. If engine suppression is still active, it didn't lock (light should be solid). Brake pulsing to control wheel spin is still active, but if that's a problem, you need to look at your driving.

If locking the center diff around pavement worries you, take a look here.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-g...pavement-center-diff-lock-vsc-off-switch.html

 

[Synister]

You have an 08 so you can choose to turn off some or all of the traction control aides. If you are in 4HI and have the center diff unlocked, press the skidding car button. This turns off VSC (vehicle stability control) which will allow you to slide, IMO kinda dangerous but to each their own. If you press that button again it will reengage. If you press and HOLD the button for 3 sec you will turn off VSC and TRAC (the thing that cuts power). Now, you are free to drive however you want and are also responsible for fully controlling the vehicle. Or, you could also just lock the center diff and it will disengage the electronic gadgets as well. IMO, 4HI unlocked with the electronics turned off is really great for slooooooowwww speed icy driving, however, VSC and TRAC are really nice to have when the sunny spots are relatively clear but its icy in the shade. Good luck.