Mazda Tribute Owner's Manual page 197

normal system self-check, or during driving if a driving situation causes
the DSC system to operate. The stability control off light will illuminate if
traction control or trailer sway control are disabled after pressing the
TCS OFF switch. If the stability control light remains steadily
illuminated, have the system serviced by an authorized dealer
immediately.
Note: If the system cannot be turned off, refer to MyKey™ in the Locks
and Security chapter for more information.
When DSC performs a normal system self-check, some drivers may
notice a slight movement of the brake, and/or a rumble, grunting, or
grinding noise after startup and when driving off.
When an event occurs that activates DSC, you may experience the
following:
• A slight deceleration of the vehicle
• The stability control light will flash.
• A vibration in the pedal when your foot is on the brake pedal
• If the driving condition is severe and your foot is not on the brake, the
brake pedal may move as the systems applies higher brake forces. You
may also hear a whoosh of air from under the instrument panel during
this severe condition.
• The brake pedal may feel stiffer than usual.
Traction control (TCS)
Traction control is a driver aid feature that helps your vehicle maintain
traction of the wheels, typically when driving on slippery and/or hilly
road surfaces, by detecting and controlling wheel spin.
Excessive wheel spin is controlled in two ways, which may work
separately or in tandem: engine traction control and brake traction
control. Engine traction control works to limit drive-wheel spin by
momentarily reducing engine power. Brake traction control works to limit
wheel spin by momentarily applying the brakes to the wheel that is
slipping. Traction control is most active at low speeds.
During traction control events, the stability control light in the
instrument cluster will flash.
If the traction control system is activated excessively in a short period of
time, the braking portion of the system may become temporarily disabled
to allow the brakes to cool down. In this situation, traction control will
use only engine power reduction or transfer to help control the wheels
from over-spinning. When the brakes have cooled down, the system will
2011 Tribute (j14)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA (fus)
Driving
197