The ASR system, known as the traction control system or anti-skid system, is a technology that increases your safety on the road.
This electro-hydraulic system, whose main function is to prevent skidding, is present in most cars on the market. However, it can be deactivated if the driver wishes.
Find out how this system can help make your driving safer and smoother, how it works and what other traction technologies exist.
What is ASR?
ASR is the automotive traction control system that integrates the vehicle’s stability control system.
The main function of this system is to control the power supplied by the accelerator to prevent the wheels from slipping when accelerating too hard.
What is the Anti Slip Regulation (ASR) Button for?
This system increases a vehicle’s traction and safety, especially on wet or icy surfaces. This way, you can handle the car more safely, even when going uphill.
On the other hand, it helps to monitor the speed of rotation of the wheels, using the data provided by the ABS system’s sensors.
When there is an indication that the wheel may be skidding, the system applies a braking force to that wheel via the valves and pumps in order to readjust the pressure in the brake circuits.
What are the Components of the Anti Slip Regulation (ASR) System?
The ASR system is made up of a series of sensors that send signals from each individual wheel to the engine control unit (ECU).
These sensors, which are connected to the ABS, monitor the speed of each wheel.
How does the ASR Button Work?
The ASR system works on the basis of sensors that activate when a wheel slips or runs faster than it should, in order to reduce torque. This restores grip between the wheel and the surface it is driving on.
This system can activate one or more maneuvers simultaneously to ensure correct operation:
- Canceling or delaying the ignition spark in the cylinders;
- Interfering with the ECU by, for example, reducing the amount of fuel injection;
- Braking the wheel when skidding.
Where does ASR Work?
ASR in cars acts on the accelerator and brakes. So if a wheel slips, the control system is activated and reduces the engine’s power to prevent the wheel from slipping.
This prevents skidding or other situations that could lead to road accidents.
Is it Possible to Deactivate ASR?
In some cases, it is not possible to disable ASR, it all depends on the type of vehicle.
On the latest models, it is possible to deactivate this system. All you have to do is press the ESC/ASR button.
If you turn off the ASR traction control, the risk of losing control of the vehicle increases.
What are the Benefits of ASR Traction Control?
Having the ASR system helps you:
- Increase tire grip on wet or slippery surfaces;
- Prevent aquaplaning in heavy rain;
- Improve vehicle stability in puddles or on icy or snowy roads;
- Reduce the chances of skidding or losing control when cornering;
- Reduce tire wear.
What are the Causes of ASR System Failure?
The main causes of malfunctions in the ASR system of cars are:
- Cable damage;
- Ignition failure;
- Malfunctioning throttle;
- Dirt on the ABS sensors;
- Low levels of brake fluid.
What Other Traction Control Technologies Are There?
To increase traction control and vehicle stability, vehicles come equipped with systems that provide this performance and safety.
In addition to ASR, the other most common traction technologies:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
The ABS system acts directly on the brakes so that the car’s tires don’t slip when the driver brakes suddenly.
TCS (Traction Control System)
It is a system that is integrated into the ABS system, with the aim of improving the handling and maneuverability of a vehicle on the road, especially on slippery surfaces.
ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
This system, which has been mandatory in Europe since 2014 for new vehicles, is used to detect differences between the driver’s intention and the vehicle’s actual response while driving.
When the system detects these differences, it activates the braking of the wheels in an appropriate and controlled manner to correct the maneuver.
HDC (Hill Descent Control)
The HDC system is present in 4×4 vehicles to guarantee stability and comfort when driving on uneven terrain. Thus, the driver can descend a steep hill without losing control of the vehicle.
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