Traction Control - Tesla MODEL S 2012 Owner's Manual

How It Works
The traction control system constantly monitors the
speed of the front and rear wheels. If Model S
experiences a loss of traction, the system minimizes
wheel spin by controlling brake pressure and motor
power. By default, the traction control system is on.
Under normal conditions, it should remain on to ensure
maximum safety.
This yellow indicator flashes on the
instrument panel whenever the traction
control system is actively controlling brake
pressure and motor power to minimize
wheel spin. If the indicator stays on, a fault
is detected with the traction control
system. Contact Tesla Service.
WARNING: Traction control cannot prevent
collisions caused by driving dangerously or turning
too sharply at high speeds.
Allowing Wheel Slip
To allow the wheels to spin at a limited speed, you can
enable Slip Start. Slip Start can be enabled only when
Model S is moving 30 mph (48 km/h) or slower. Slip
Start automatically disables when the speed exceeds
50 mph (80 km/h).
Under normal conditions, Slip Start should not be
enabled. Enable it only in circumstances where you
deliberately want the wheels to spin, such as:
• Starting on a loose surface, such as gravel or snow.
• Driving in deep snow, sand or mud.
• Rocking out of a hole or deep rut.
To allow the wheels to spin, touch Controls > Pedals &
Steering > Slip Start.
The instrument panel displays an alert
message when Slip Start is enabled.
Although Slip Start is automatically disabled the next
time you start Model S, it is strongly recommended that
you disable it immediately after the circumstances that
required you to enable it have passed.
NOTE: Slip Start can not be enabled when you are
actively using cruise control.
Driving

Traction Control

61