Drivers are being warned not to press the ‘off’ button for certain safety features in their cars, as doing so could increase the risk of accidents. Modern vehicles, both new and used, come equipped with numerous buttons and gadgets, from heated steering wheels to fog lights and de-misting mirrors. Understanding these features is essential for safe driving and avoiding distractions.
However, one button, in particular, should be left alone unless absolutely necessary, as it can greatly raise the chances of a crash. On TikTok, user @carknowledge_, known for sharing car tips with their 1.4 million followers, cautioned against using this button due to the dangers it poses.
The video explains, “99 percent of drivers overlook this potentially dangerous button in their cars. It’s the ‘off’ button for the vehicle body stabilization system, also known as the anti-skid system. This feature is automatically activated, and it’s important not to turn it off.”
Deactivating this system, which in the UK is commonly referred to as ‘traction control,’ can make the vehicle more susceptible to skidding or rolling over during sharp turns or sudden acceleration. The video emphasizes that turning it off can significantly reduce your control over the vehicle, especially at high speeds or while cornering, increasing the risk of an accident.
The traction control system works by monitoring your tires for any loss of grip or wheel spin. When this happens, the system steps in to slow down the spinning wheel, helping it regain traction and maintain control.
But when might it be useful to disable traction control? This is primarily in specific weather or driving conditions. For instance, in icy or snowy environments where your wheels struggle to gain traction, turning off the system can allow for increased wheel spin, helping you build the momentum needed to move. If left on, the system would continually reduce power in response to the wheel spin.
Similarly, in off-road conditions—particularly in deep mud—disabling traction control can help the wheels spin more freely, aiding in getting the vehicle unstuck.