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Volkswagen Golf Mk7 Owners Manual: Switching TCS or TCS with ESC on and off

Fig. 142 and Fig. 143 show the centre-console buttons for switching TCS or TCS with ESC on and off manually on the Volkswagen Golf Mk7 — the second variant applies to cars without full ESC. This page explains when you might want to disable traction control, such as rocking free from snow or mud.

Fig. 142 In the centre console: button for switching the traction control system (TCS) or electronic stability control (ESC) on and off manually

Fig. 143 In the centre console: button for switching the traction control system (TCS) on and off manually (vehicles without ESC)

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings 

The electronic stability control (ESC) only functions when the engine is running. It consists of ABS, EDL and TCS.

The TCS or ESC should only be switched off in certain situations when the traction achieved is not sufficient. For example:

  • When driving in deep snow or on loose surfaces.
  • When rocking the vehicle backwards and forwards to free it from mud.

The TCS or ESC function should be switched back on again afterwards.

Switching the TCS function on and off

  • When the engine is running, the TCS function can be switched off by pressing the   or    buttons.
  • Switch the TCS back on by pressing the   or    button.
  • OR: activate or deactivate the TCS function in the infotainment system using the  button and the and ESC System function buttons   .

Switching the TCS and ESC function on and off

In some models, the electronic stability control (ESC) can also be switched off in addition to switching off the traction control system (TCS).

  • The TCS function is switched off when the button   is pressed for approximately one second.
  • If the button   is pressed for longer than approximately 3 seconds, the electronic stability control (ESC), including the TCS function, is switched off.
  • The TCS/ESC function is switched back on by pressing the button  .
  • OR: activate or deactivate the TCS or ESC function in the infotainment system using the  button and the and ESC System function buttons   .

Depending on the vehicle's equipment level, additional text messages could appear in the display on the instrument cluster to provide further information or to ask you to perform certain tasks   .

    Questions & answers

    Switching TCS or TCS with ESC on and off — Volkswagen Golf Mk7

    How do I switch off TCS on the Golf Mk7?
    Press the TCS/ESC button in the centre console briefly. An indicator lamp confirms TCS is off. TCS reactivates automatically the next time the engine is started.
    When should I switch off TCS on the Golf Mk7?
    Only in specific situations like rocking out of snow or sand, or when fitting snow chains. In all normal driving conditions, leave TCS on for maximum safety.
    Can I fully disable ESC on the Golf Mk7?
    On most models, pressing and holding the button reduces ESC intervention but does not deactivate it completely. Full ESC deactivation is only possible on performance models like the GTI and R via a specific sequence.
    Does Golf Mk7 TCS turn back on automatically?
    Yes. TCS reactivates every time you restart the engine. You cannot permanently disable it.
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