Stuck in the Snow? Turn Off the Stability Control System!

I Got Stuck in the Snow

I just got caught. I live, eat and breath advanced automotive systems, and a neighbor had to clue me in. I missed it. I didn’t think of it. Turn Off the Stability Control System!

My car was stuck in the snow, and I had the stability control system on.

With the system on, as soon as one of the wheels starts to spin, the brakes want to slow that wheel down and the symbol to the left will be seen on the instrument panel. In some cars, even the engine power will be reduced, all of which conspires to leave you stuck. So there you are trying to gain some momentum, and bang, down you go. And I didn’t think of it…

My embarrassment is balanced by the recognition that most of you out there would likely have missed it too. In fact, you may not know why the Stability Control Off button even exists!

So, try to log into the backs of your minds that the reason you have an Off button for your stability control or traction control system is that there are times when turning it off is useful. And for most drivers, finding yourself stuck in mud or snow with a need to rock your vehicle back and forth will be that time. The motion helps build some momentum to push through and get free.

Too Many Names

Stability control systems go by way too many names, including AdvanceTrac, Automatic Stability Control (ASC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Interactive Vehicle Dynamics (IVD), Precision Control System (PCS), StabiliTrak, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Vehicle Dynamics Control Systems (VDCS), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). Check them out here.

Despite the alphabet soup, they all do the same thing, and are an important safety tool while on the road. A warning light, like the one to the right, will be illuminated to remind you to turn it back on when you are safely underway.

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The information on this website is provided for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

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