Seat Ibiza Owner's Manual page 162

160 Intelligent technology
However, ABS will not necessarily guarantee shorter braking distances in all
conditions. The braking distance could even be longer if you brake on gravel
or on fresh snow covering a slippery surface.
WARNING
● The anti-lock brake system cannot defy the laws of physics. Slippery
and wet roads are dangerous even with ABS! If you notice that the ABS is
working (to counteract locked wheels under braking), you should reduce
speed immediately to suit the road and traffic conditions. Do not let the
extra safety features tempt you into taking any risks when driving.
● The effectiveness of ABS is also determined by the tyres fitted
⇒ p age 201.
● If the running gear or brake system is modified, the effectiveness of
the ABS could be severely limited.
Traction control system (ASR)*
The traction control system prevents the driven wheels from spinning when
the vehicle is accelerating. This system always includes ABS.
Description and operation of the traction control system during
acceleration (ASR
On front-wheel drive vehicles, the ASR system intervenes, reducing engine
power and preventing the driven wheels from slipping during acceleration.
The system works in the entire speed range in conjunction with ABS. If a
failure occurs in the ABS, the ASR will also stop working.
TCS helps the car to start moving, accelerate and climb a gradient in slip-
pery conditions where this may otherwise be difficult or even impossible.
The ASR automatically switches on when the engine is started. If necessary,
it may be turned on or off by briefly pressing the ESC button on the centre
console.
When the ASR is off, the warning lamp lights up . The ASR should normally
be left on. Only in exceptional circumstances, when slipping of the wheels
is required, can they be disconnected using the ESC button, for example:
● With compact temporary spare wheel.
● When using the snow chains.
● When driving in deep snow or on soft terrain.
● When the vehicle is bogged-down, to free it "by rocking it."
The ASR should be switched on again as soon as possible.
WARNING
● Remember that not even the ASR can defy the laws of physics. This
should be kept in mind, particularly on slippery and wet roads and when

towing a trailer.
● Always adapt your driving style to suit the condition of the roads and
the traffic situation. The greater safety provided by the ASR should not
encourage you to run any risks.
CAUTION
● To ensure that the ASR works correctly, identical tyres should be fitted
on all four wheels. Any differences in the rolling radius of the tyres can
cause the system to reduce engine power when this is not desired.
● Any modifications made to the vehicle (for example, to the engine,
brake system, running gear or to the combination of wheels and tyres) may
affect the operation of the ABS and ASR.
XDS*
When taking a bend, the driveshaft differential mechanism allows the outer
wheel to turn at a higher speed than the inner wheel. In this way, the wheel
that is turning faster (outer wheel) receives less drive torque than the inner
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