Q: Explain traction control

Hi Nathaniel. Thanks for contacting us today. Traction control utilizes the anti-lock braking system (ABS) and the vehicle’s throttle, for vehicles that are equipped with an electronic throttle body, in assisting with keeping the vehicle under control while driving. In other words, if the vehicle reads that the driver needs assistance in a particular area, such as braking, it can override and gain control of the vehicle with the ABS. Multiple sensors on each wheel, transmission, drive shaft and other components relay data in real time to make these quick adjustments on the fly. If the vehicle’s ECU has detected a fault in this system or in the transmission, it can trigger or activate a warning system often referred to as a "limp mode". This can cause the vehicle to not accelerate over a certain speed - and is designed to allow the vehicle owner to slowly drive their vehicle to a dealership for service. If you are having this problem, you might want to have a professional mechanic complete a warning light inspection, so they can isolate the source of this acceleration problem and recommend the right repairs.