Sequoia Traction Control...

When my traction control ('03 Sequoia) kicks in, I hear nothing. The speed drops down and the cruise control is disengaged but there is absolutely no sound. It was very scary the first time this happened on the Interstate as I apparently hit black ice and the speed dropped down from 65 to 40 just like that. I thought the engine died.

Other times I'll try accelerating into a turn on a city street and hit something slick that causes the traction control to kick in. Again, no noise just a loss of power. I also notice the light on the dash at the same time it kicks in.

Perhaps others can tell their experiences?

--Felix

I am a Toyota tech and maybe if I describe what is going on when traction control kicks in it might help. The traction control uses the ABS system to stablize the vehicle and keep it in control by appling and releasing the brakes on the wheels that are losing traction. This is done electronically and mechanically. The sounds you are hearing are the solenoids appling and releasing pressure to each individual wheel. They do this at several times a second which is why it sounds like it does. Just imagine the sound you would get from hitting the brake pedal several times a second. It sounds bad at times, but you will be glad you have it if you never really need it. It is one of the best systems out there.

How does this differ from other systems available? I have friends that have other vehicles with AWD, and when the all wheel drive kicks in, it is silent. With the Sequoia it is such an alarming sound that I only want to make sure that it is normal prior to my warrantee expiring. If it is different, and better, than anything else out there I want to know this. I love this vehicle and this is the only thing in 2 years that makes me wonder...

Thanks for your info.