Mazda 3 Owners Manual: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Mazda 3 Owners Manual / When Driving / ABS/TCS/DSC / Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) automatically controls braking and engine torque in conjunction with systems such as ABS and TCS to help control side slip when driving on slippery surfaces, or during sudden or evasive maneuvering, enhancing vehicle safety.

Refer to ABS and TCS .

DSC operation is possible at speeds greater than 20 km/h (12 mph).

The warning light turns on when the system has a malfunction.

Refer to Warning Lights on .

WARNING Do not rely on the Dynamic Stability Control as a substitute for safe driving: The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) cannot compensate for unsafe and reckless driving, excessive speed, tailgating (following another vehicle too closely), and hydroplaning (reduced tire friction and road contact because of water on the road surface).

You can still have an accident.

CAUTION

The DSC may not operate correctly unless the following are observed:

Use tires of the correct size specifi ed for your Mazda on all four wheels
Use tires of the same manufacturer, brand and tread pattern on all four wheels.
Do not mix worn tires.

The DSC may not operate correctly when tire chains are used or a temporary spare tire is installed because the tire diameter changes.

TCS/DSC Indicator Light

Mazda 3. Indicator Light

This indicator light stays on for a few seconds when the ignition is switched ON. If the TCS or DSC is operating, the indicator light flashes.

If the light stays on, the TCS, DSC or the brake assist system may have a malfunction and they may not operate correctly. Take your vehicle to an Authorized Mazda Dealer.

DSC OFF Indicator Light

Mazda 3. Indicator Light

This indicator light stays on for a few seconds when the ignition is switched ON.

It also illuminates when the DSC OFF switch is pressed and TCS/DSC is switched off.

Refer to DSC OFF Switch on .

If the light remains illuminated and the TCS/DSC is not switched off, take your vehicle to an Authorized Mazda Dealer.

The DSC may have a malfunction.

DSC OFF Switch

Press the DSC OFF switch to turn off the TCS/DSC. The DSC OFF indicator light in the instrument cluster will illuminate.

Mazda 3. Switch

Press the switch again to turn the TCS/ DSC back on. The DSC OFF indicator light will turn off.

NOTE

When DSC is on and you attempt to free the vehicle when it is stuck, or drive it out of freshly fallen snow, the TCS (part of the DSC system) will activate.
Depressing the accelerator will not increase engine power and freeing the vehicle may be difficult. When this happens, turn off the TCS/DSC.
If the TCS/DSC is off when the engine is turned off, it automatically activates when the ignition is switched ON.
Leaving the TCS/DSC on will provide the best traction.
If the DSC OFF switch is pressed and held for 10 seconds or more, the DSC OFF switch malfunction detection function operates and the DSC system activates automatically. The DSC OFF indicator light turns off while the DSC system is operative.

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The Traction Control System (TCS) enhances traction and safety by controlling engine torque and braking. When the TCS detects driving wheel slippage, it lowers engine torque and operates the brake ...

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