traction control MITSUBISHI LANCER RALLIART 2012 8.G Owners Manual

Features and controls
3-107
3
NOTE
Shift ranges can only be selected in a forward direction
from 1st to 6th. To reverse or park the vehicle, move the
selector lever to the “R” or “P” position.

To maintain good running performance, the transmission
may refuse to perform an upshift when the selector lever
or sportronic steering wheel paddle shifter is moved to the
“+ (SHIFT UP)” position at certain vehicle speeds. Also,
to prevent over-revving of the engine, the transmission
may refuse to perform a downshift when the shift lever or
sportronic steering wheel paddle shifter is moved to the “-
(SHIFT DOWN)” position at certain vehicle speeds.
When this happens, a buzzer sounds to indicate that a
downshift is not going to take place.

Move the selector lever gently between the manual and
main gates and between positions in the manual gate. And
do not operate sportronic steering wheel paddle shifter
violently. Excessive force could damage the selector lever
or sportronic steering wheel paddle shifter.
Except for vehicles with manual gateWhile driving with the selector lever in the “D” (DRIVE),
sports mode can be selected by pulling one of the sportronic
steering wheel shifters toward you.
In sports mode, rapid shifting is possible simply by operating
the sportronic steering wheel paddle shifter.
Unlike the manual transaxle, sports mode allows shifting with
the accelerator pedal depressed.NOTE
To return to “D” (DRIVE) operation, pull the sportronic
steering wheel paddle shifter on the + (UP) side for longer
than 2 seconds, or park the vehicle to change the selector
lever position indicator to “D” (DRIVE) and return to “D”
(DRIVE) operation.

When the sportronic steering wheel paddle shifter is oper-
ated with the selector lever in the “L” (LOW) position,
gear is not shifted because the selectable shift range is
limited.

By rapidly moving the selector lever or sportronic
steering wheel paddle shifter to the “- (SHIFT
DOWN)” side twice, it is possible to skip one shift
range (i.e., 3rd to 1st or 4th to 2nd). Since sudden
engine braking or acceleration can cause a loss of
traction, downshifts must be made carefully in
accordance with the vehicle’s speed.
On vehicles with a sportronic steering wheel paddle
shifter, shift ranges may not change when the lateral
paddle shifters are operated at the same time.
CAUTION
!
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3-108 Features and controls
3
NOTE
Shift ranges can only be selected in a forward direction
from 1st to 6th. To reverse or park the vehicle, move the
selector lever to the “R” or “P” position.

To maintain good running performance, the transmission
may refuse to perform an upshift when the sportronic
steering wheel paddle shifter is moved to the “+ (SHIFT
UP)” position at certain vehicle speeds. Also, to prevent
over-revving of the engine, the transmission may refuse to
perform a downshift when the sportronic steering wheel
paddle shifter is moved to the “- (SHIFT DOWN)” posi-
tion at certain vehicle speeds. When this happens, a
buzzer sounds to indicate that a downshift is not going to
take place.

Do not operate sportronic steering wheel paddle shifter
violently. Excessive force could damage the sportronic
steering wheel paddle shifter.
+ (SHIFT UP)
Transmission shifts up once by each operation.
- (SHIFT DOWN)
Transmission shifts down once by each operation.
CAUTION
!
Upward shifts do not take place automatically in
sports mode. The driver must make upward shifts in
accordance with prevailing road conditions, making
sure the engine rpm remains below the red zone on
the tachometer.SHIFT DOWN
SHIFT UP

By rapidly moving the sportronic steering wheel
paddle shifter to the “- (SHIFT DOWN)” side twice,
it is possible to skip one shift range (i.e., 3rd to 1st or
4th to 2nd). Since sudden engine braking or acceler-
ation can cause a loss of traction, downshifts must be
made carefully in accordance with the vehicle’s
speed.
Shift ranges may not change when the lateral paddle
shifters are operated at the same time.
CAUTION
!
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3-132 Features and controls
3
When the gearshift lever position display is not showing
A safety device in the Twin Clutch SST has been activated due
to a possible malfunction in the Twin Clutch SST.
Refer to “If the gearshift lever position display is not showing”
on page 3-115 and follow the appropriate measures.
When warning display is showing or when no warning is
showing in the multi-information display
A safety device in the Twin Clutch SST has been activated due
to a possible malfunction in the Twin Clutch SST or in the
engine electronic control module.
Perform the following procedure.
1. Park your vehicle in a safe place and stop the engine.
2. Restart the engine.
If the vehicle moves and accelerates normally after this proce-
dure is performed, there is no malfunction in the transmission.
However, if the vehicle does not move or accelerate normally,
or if this problem occurs repeatedly, have the vehicle checked
by an authorized Mitsubishi Motors dealer or a repair facility
of your choice as soon as possible.
ACD (Active center differential system)
(if so
equipped)N00538500034
The ACD is a system that improves acceleration performance
and straight-ahead stability by regulating the differential limit-
ing action and power drive distribution of the center differen-
tial.NOTE
If the parking brake lever is pulled up while the vehicle is
moving, the center differential is designed to switch to a
free state condition which will allow the rear wheel to
lock easier.
CAUTION
!
When the Twin Clutch SST fluid temperature is
high, the engine idle speed when the vehicle is
stopped may increase or the vehicle will have a weak
tendency to creep.
After that, if the Twin Clutch SST fluid temperature
rises even higher, the warning display will
appear.
CAUTION
!
Do not over-rely on the ACD. Even the ACD cannot
prevent the natural laws of physics from acting on
the vehicle. This system, like any other system, has
limits and cannot help you to maintain traction and
control of the vehicle in all circumstances. Reckless
driving can lead to accidents. It is the driver’s
responsibility to drive carefully. This means taking
into account the traffic, road and environmental
conditions.
Be sure to use tires that are the same specified size,
type, and brand, and have no difference in the
amount of wear for all four wheels. Otherwise, the
ACD may not work properly.
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Features and controls
3-139
3 All-wheel driving operation
N00530600169
For vehicles with full-time 4WDFull-time 4WD vehicles are propelled by engine power distrib-
uted constantly and appropriately to all 4 wheels.
Not only does this ensure enhanced handling on dry, paved
roads but also permits better traction when driving on slippery,
wet or snow-covered roads and when moving out of mud.
These vehicles, however, are not designed for off-road use,
and are unsuitable for driving on bumpy ground that may
cause excessive strain. Full-time 4WD vehicles should be
driven only under the same conditions as are suitable for ordi-
nary front-wheel drive vehicles.For vehicles with electronically controlled 4WD
systemElectronically controlled 4WD system vehicles are propelled
by engine power distributed constantly and appropriately to all
4 wheels.
Not only does this ensure enhanced handling on dry, paved
roads but also permits better traction when driving on slippery,
wet or snow-covered roads and when moving out of mud.
These vehicles, however, are not designed for off-road use,
and are unsuitable for driving on bumpy ground that may
cause excessive strain. Electronically controlled 4WD system
vehicles should be driven only under the same conditions as
are suitable for ordinary front-wheel drive vehicles.
Turning sharp cornersWhen turning a sharp corner in “4WD LOCK” position at low
speed, a slight difference in steering may be experienced simi-
lar to feeling as if the brakes were applied. This is called tight
corner braking and results from each of the four tires being at a
different distance from the corner. The phenomenon is typical
of 4-wheel drive vehicles. If this occurs, either straighten out
the steering wheel, or change to “2WD” or “4WD AUTO”
mode.On snowy or icy roadsSet the drive mode-selector to “4WD AUTO” or “4WD
LOCK” in accordance with the road conditions, and then grad-
ually depress the accelerator pedal for a smooth start.NOTE
The use of snow tires is recommended.

Maintain a safe distance between vehicles, avoid sudden
braking, and use engine braking (downshifting).
CAUTION
!
Avoid sudden braking, sudden acceleration, and
sharp turning. Skidding occurs and control of the
vehicle could be lost.
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Features and controls
3-143
3 Limited-slip differential
(if so equipped)
N00517400069
A limited-slip differential is applied for rear wheel differential.
The features of this limited-slip differential are described
below:
Just as with a conventional differential, the wheel on one side
is allowed to turn at a different speed from the wheel on the
other side when the vehicle is cornering. The difference
between the limited-slip differential and a conventional differ-
ential is that if the wheel on one side of the vehicle loses trac-
tion, a greater amount of torque is applied to the wheel on the
other side to improve traction.NOTE
Even if there is a difference in the amount of traction the
wheels can get, if both of them are spinning, the limited-
slip differential will not be effective.
Service brake
N00517500262
Brake pedalOveruse of the brake can cause poor brake response and pre-
mature wear of the brake pads and linings.
When driving down a long or steep hill, use engine braking by
downshifting.
CAUTION
!
Never start the engine while one of the front or rear
wheels is jacked up and the other in contact with the
ground; doing so may cause the vehicle to jump for-
ward.
Continuously attempting to extract the vehicle from
snow, mud, etc. while using high engine rpm may
damage the limited-slip differential.
Using a compact spare wheel will adversely affect
the limited-slip differential; replace the compact
spare wheel with a standard size wheel as soon as
possible.
WA R N I N G
!
Do not leave any objects near the brake pedal or let
a floor mat slide under it; doing so could prevent the
full pedal stroke that would be necessary in an emer-
gency. Make sure that the pedal can be operated
freely at all times. Make sure the floor mat is
securely held in place.
CAUTION
!
It is important not to drive the vehicle with your foot
resting on the brake pedal when braking is not
required. This practice can result in very high brake
temperatures, premature pad and lining wear, and
possible damage to the brakes.
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Features and controls
3-151
3 Active Stability Control (ASC)
(if so equipped)
N00559100118
The Active Stability Control (ASC) takes overall control of the
anti-lock braking system, traction control function and skid
control function to help maintain the vehicle’s control and trac-
tion. Please read this section in conjunction with the page on
the anti-lock braking system, traction control function and skid
control function.
Anti-lock braking system (ABS) → P. 3 - 1 4 7
Traction control function → P. 3 - 1 5 2
Skid control function → P. 3 - 1 5 2
Rear
CAUTION
!
Do not over-rely on the ASC. Even the ASC cannot
prevent the natural laws of physics from acting on
the vehicle. This system, like any other system, has
limits and cannot help you to maintain traction and
control of the vehicle in all circumstances. Reckless
driving can lead to accidents. It is the driver’s
responsibility to drive carefully, This means taking
into account the traffic, road and environmental
conditions.
Be sure to use the same specified type and size of tire
on all four wheels. Otherwise, the ASC may not
work properly.
Do not install any aftermarket limited slip differen-
tial (LSD) on your vehicle. The ASC may stop func-
tioning properly.
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3-152 Features and controls
3
NOTE
An operation noise may be emitted from the engine com-
partment in the following situations. The sound is associ-
ated with checking the operations of the ASC. At this
time, you may feel a shock from the brake pedal if you
depress it. These do not indicate a malfunction.
• When the ignition switch is set to the “ON” position.
• When the vehicle is driven for a while after the engine is
turned on.

When the ASC is activated, you may feel a vibration in
the vehicle body or hear a whining sound from the engine
compartment.
This indicates that the system is operating normally. It
does not indicate a malfunction.

When the anti-lock braking system warning light is illu-
minated, the ASC is not active.Traction control function
N00559200034
On slippery surfaces, the traction control function prevents the
drive wheels from spinning excessive, thus helping the vehicle
to start moving from a stopped condition. It also provides suffi-
cient driving force and steering performance as the vehicle
turns while pressing the acceleration pedal.
Skid control function
N00559300035
The skid control function is designed to help the driver main-
tain control of the vehicle on slippery roads or during rapid
steering maneuvers. It works by controlling the engine output
and the brake on each wheel.NOTE
The skid control function operates at speeds of about 9
mph (15 km/h) or higher.
CAUTION
!
When driving a vehicle on a snowy or icy road, be
sure to install snow tires and drive the vehicle at
moderate speeds.
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Features and controls
3-153
3
“ASC OFF” switch
N00559400179
The ASC is automatically activated when the ignition switch is
turned to the “ON” position. You can deactivate the system by
pressing down the “ASC OFF” switch for 3 seconds or longer.
When the ASC is deactivated, the display/indicator will turn
on. To reactivate the ASC, momentarily press the “ASC OFF”
switch ; the display/indicator is turned off.
NOTE
Using the “ASC OFF” switch turns off both the skid con-
trol function and the traction control function.

When moving out of mud, sand or fresh snow, pressing
the accelerator pedal may not allow the engine speed to
increase. In such situations, temporarily turning off ASC
with the “ASC OFF” switch will make it easier to move
out your vehicle.

If you continue to press the “ASC OFF” switch after the
ASC is turned off, the “mistaken operation protection
function” will activate and the ASC will turn back on.
CAUTION
!
For safety reasons, the “ASC OFF” switch should be
operated when your vehicle is stopped.
Be sure to keep the ASC on while driving in normal
circumstances.
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3-154 Features and controls
3
ASC operation display or ASC OFF display
N00559500183
NOTE
The combination of items shown on the display varies
depending on the vehicle model.
NOTE
The display/indicator may come on when you start the
engine. This means that the battery voltage momentarily
dropped when the engine was started. It does not indicate
a malfunction, provided that the display goes out immedi-
ately.

When a spare tire has been put on your vehicle, the grip-
ping ability of the tire will be lower, making it more likely
that the display/indicator will blink.
-ASC operation display/ASC indicator
The display/indicator will blink when the ASC is operat-
ing.
-ASC OFF display/ASC OFF indicator
This display/incicator will turn on when the ASC is
turned off with the “ASC OFF” switch.
CAUTION
!
When display/indicator blinks, ASC is operating,
which means that the road is slippery or that your
vehicle’s wheels are beginning to slip. If this hap-
pens, drive slower.
If the temperature in the braking system continues
to increase due to continuous brake control on a
slippery road surface, the display/indicator will
blink. To prevent the brake system from overheat-
ing, the brake control of the traction control func-
tion will be temporarily suspended. The engine
control of the traction control function and normal
brake operation will not be affected. Park your vehi-
cle in a safe place. When the temperature in the
braking system has come down, the display/indi-
cator will be turned off and the traction control
function will start operating again.
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7-32 Vehicle care and maintenance
7
Treadwear, Traction and Temperature GradesTr e a d w e a r
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the
wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions
on a specified government test course. For example, a tire
graded 150 would wear one and one-half (1
1/2) times as
well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The rel-
ative performance of tires depends upon the actual condi-
tions of their use, however, and may depart significantly
from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service
practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.
Traction
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B
and C. Those grades represent the tire’s ability to stop on
wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on
specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete.
A tire marked C may have poor traction performance.
Te m p e r a t u r e
The temperature grades are A (the highest), B and C, repre-
senting the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its
ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled condi-
tions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained
high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degen-
erate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can
lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a
level of performance which all passenger car tires must
meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No.
109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance
on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by
law.
Tire inflation pressures
N00939300844
Proper tire inflation pressure is essential for the safe and satis-
factory operation of your vehicle. The wrong tire pressure will
cause problems in three major areas:

Safety
Too little pressure increases flexing in the tire and can
cause tire failure. Too much pressure can cause a tire to
lose its ability to cushion shock. Objects on the road and
potholes could then cause tire damage that may result in
tire failure.

Economy
The wrong tire pressure can cause uneven wear patterns in
the tire tread. These abnormal wear patterns will reduce
the tread life, and the tire will have to be replaced sooner.
Too little pressure also makes it harder for the tire to roll,
and this uses up more fuel.

Ride comfort and vehicle stability
The superior riding experience built into your vehicle
partly depends on the correct tire pressure. Too much
pressure gives an uncomfortable and jarring ride. Too lit-
tle pressure feels as if your vehicle is slow to respond.
Unequal tire pressures can make steering your vehicle
uneven and unpredictable.
The correct tire pressure for your vehicle is listed on the plac-
ard attached to the sill of the driver’s door.
(Refer to “Tire and loading information placard” on page 9-4.)
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