Click here to enlarge Originally Posted by DirtyHarry Click here to enlarge
i dont think traction control applies the brakes. thats more esp, than traction control.
all traction control does i believe is cut power to the engine.
The traction control used by Opel is, I believe, linked between the engine ECU and ABS system, thereby applying brakes and/or "manipulating" thottle control/engine revs to assist in preventing and/or controlling skidding and/or spinning wheels. I read somewhere that it is linked only to the front wheels (drive wheels), however don't quote me on this.

In the end it is there to assist in dangerous situations, and I'm sure an astute insurance assessor could very well determine that this is an "added" extra if the particular model didn't come with switchable controls. I know the earlier Astras had it switchable, but was dropped, I think, from about 2001 models on. The 2000 Olympic Edition CD had switchable.