2008 Chevrolet Malibu Owner's Manual - Page 220

Traction Control System (TCS) Your vehicle may have a Traction Control System (TCS) that limits wheel spin. This is especially useful in slippery road conditions. The system operates only if it senses that the front wheels are spinning too much or are beginning to lose traction. When this happens, the system works the front brakes and reduces engine power by closing the throttle and managing engine spark to limit wheel spin. This light will flash when your traction control system is limiting wheel spin. When this light is on solid and either the SERVICE TRACTION or TRACTION OFF message is displayed, the system will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly. See DIC Warnings and Messages on page 3-48 for more information. The Traction Control System is automatically enabled whenever you start your vehicle. To limit wheel spin, especially in slippery road conditions, you should always leave the system enabled. You can turn TCS off if you ever need to. It is recommended to leave the system on for normal driving conditions, but it may be necessary to turn the system off if your vehicle is stuck in sand, mud, ice or snow, and you want to "rock" your vehicle to attempt to free it. It may also be necessary to turn off the system when driving in extreme off-road conditions where high wheel spin is required. See If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow on page 4-20. You may feel or hear the system working, but this is normal. If your vehicle is in cruise control when TCS begins to limit wheel spin, the cruise control will automatically disengage. When road conditions allow you to safely use it again, you may re-engage the cruise control. See Cruise Control on page 3-10. 4-6