Brakes and Traction Control: Description and Operation

Front wheel drive models are equipped with Antilock Brake Systems (ABS) and Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) systems as standard equipment. An Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) system or Traction Control System (TCS) is also optionally available. Audi uses both ASR and TCS to refer to the same traction system used.

ABS prevents the wheels from locking when the driver applies the brakes.

EDL is an aid for starting from rest in low traction conditions. Engine power is diverted to wheels with traction by electronically controlled braking of wheels that are spinning. EDL controls operate up to a speed of 40 km/h (25 mph).

ASR/TCS prevents the drive wheels from spinning during acceleration by reducing engine power, and it operates over the entire vehicle speed range. ASR/TCS can be switched on and off using the ASR/TCS switch in the center console. If ASR/TCS is switched off, the traction control indicator light in the instrument cluster comes on. During control operation, the indictor lamp blinks three times per second.