Drivers urged to press little-used dashboard button 'in specific scenarios'

Motorists have been advised to press one button to switch off a crucial safety system when they encounter specific conditions. Traction control stands as one of the most vital features in contemporary vehicles, stopping skidding by reducing tyre spin and operating alongside the ABS system.

Nevertheless, specialists at BigWantsYourCar.com have revealed that certain circumstances exist where deactivating it could prove advantageous.

They explained: "Traction control is designed to stop wheelspin and keep the car stable, which is essential in everyday driving. But in extreme situations such as being stuck in mud, snow, ice or loose gravel, allowing the wheels to spin can actually help a car to break free. In those conditions, switching traction control off briefly can make the difference between staying stranded and getting moving again."

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What the button looks like

Drivers can typically spot the button by searching for an icon showing a car with skid marks trailing behind it or abbreviations like ESC, ESP or ASR.

On most vehicles, it demands pressing and holding the button for several seconds before the system switches off to stop drivers from doing it accidentally. The spokesperson emphasised: "It is important to remember that traction control should only ever be disabled in specific scenarios where you are stuck and need extra wheelspin to regain momentum. For normal driving, particularly in the rain or on icy roads, it is a vital safety feature that should always remain on. The system will react to a skid faster than any driver can and will often prevent a minor slide from turning into a serious accident."

The experts highlighted the importance of motorists familiarising themselves with the function, but urged caution when using it. They reiterated that keeping traction control switched on in everyday conditions is one of the best ways to ensure the safety of both drivers and passengers.