Defender MY15 Traction Control / DSC

[Nzrlh]

Hi,

I have had my new Defender 110 (MY15) for about 6mths now and loving it.

I was wondering if anyone knows what switching off the Dynamic Stability Control at the dash button does. The reason I ask is that I switch it off when driving in sand, however I sometimes find that the Traction Control is still functioning and braking the wheels, which helps me get bogged! I was not applying the brakes at the time.

Does the Traction Control still work when the DSC is switched off? Also does it function differently if you are in low or high range?

Thanks for any help with this. I have asked 2 dealers and got 2 different answers, neither of which added up.

Cheers,
Neil

[Loubrey]

Hi Neil,

It is my understanding that the TC works at all times and is not affected by switching the DSC off. All that would do is allow you to do some "drifting" on a very slick surface like a skid pan! :-)

Your second question has been a topic of some heated debate... Theoretically the TC should not apply brakes to all 4 wheels at the same time, but its my experience that it does.

Sand driving in a Puma is obviously dependent on the basics - very soft tyres and momentum. I have found low 3rd the only effective gear in the sand as it gives you enough momentum and power in a balance that prevent the TC from coming into play. Second is just too slow and with the available power all 4 wheels will be spinning the TC does kicks in, regardless of "TC 101" as its been referred to in the past.

Unfortunately dealers, especially salesmen have no interest in learning about Defenders and they often talk nonsense just to be seen to say something.

Cheers,

Lou

[Nzrlh]

Thanks Lou,

That makes more sense to me.

My experience was when driving up a short sand dune, the back wheels started digging in and the traction control activated. I think I was in 2nd low.
Hope to try your tip soon.

Cheers,
Neil