How do you turn off traction control on a Ford Falcon?

On most Ford Falcon models, you can disable traction control by using the dedicated TC/ESC off switch on the center console. A quick press typically toggles TC off and lights up a “TC OFF” indicator on the dash; some generations require a brief press-and-hold to fully deactivate, and you re-enable by pressing the switch again or cycling the ignition.

The question spans multiple Falcon generations (EF/EL, BA/BF, FG and later updates), where electronic stability and traction control are controlled via a center-console button. This article explains how to locate the switch, perform the toggle, what to expect on the dashboard, and safety considerations, with notes on model variations.

Where to find the traction control switch

The TC/ESC off switch is typically located on the center console near the gear lever or climate controls. Look for a button that shows a car icon with skid marks or is labeled “TC” or “ESC.” While the general placement is similar across EF through FG models, exact labeling and position can vary slightly by year and trim.

Before attempting the procedure, ensure you’re familiar with your specific model/year; consult the owner's manual for the precise button location and behavior for your Falcon.

Follow these steps to turn off traction control on compatible Falcon models. The exact button labeling and position can vary by generation, but the general process is similar across EF through FG.



1. With the engine running, locate the TC/ESC off button on the center console. It typically bears a car icon with skid marks or a “TC” label.


2. Press the button once to toggle traction control off. The dashboard should display a “TC OFF” indicator or a related message.


3. Some model years require a brief press-and-hold (about 2–5 seconds) to fully disable traction control. If the indicator doesn’t show a confirmed off state, try holding the button a moment longer.


4. To re-enable traction control, press the same button again or cycle the ignition off and back on. The “TC ON” indicator should disappear or the system should resume standard operation.

When the system is off, you’ll have less electronic assistance with wheel spin and stability, so proceed with care. Drive cautiously on wet, icy, or uneven surfaces and avoid using TC off on public roads where stability control is beneficial.

Model-specific notes

Traction control behavior can differ slightly by Falcon generation. The following notes provide a general sense of where to look and what to expect, but always verify against your exact build:

EF/EL era

In EF/EL models, the TC/ESC switch is on the center console. A single press typically disables traction control and activates a dash indicator. Some units may require a longer press to commit the off state.

BA/BF era

BA and BF variants generally use a similar center-console toggle. Expect a clear “TC OFF” indicator when disengaged; again, a longer press may be needed on certain trims to ensure a full off state.

FG era and later updates

FG models commonly preserve the same button concept and placement. The off state is shown by the dash indicator, and the re-enable action is the same—press the button again or reset via ignition.

Safety and best practices

Disabling traction control should be done only when necessary and in appropriate environments. The following points help balance performance and safety:

The pre-list paragraph explains that this list covers key caution points to consider before and after turning off traction control.



• Disable TC only in controlled conditions such as on a closed track, wide-open spaces, or situations where deliberate wheelspin is required for a specific maneuver.


• Be aware that turning off TC reduces automatic stability assistance, increasing the risk of loss of control on slippery or uneven surfaces.


• Re-enable traction control as soon as practical to restore standard safety systems during normal driving.

In all cases, refer to your vehicle’s owner's manual for model-specific guidance and cautions. If you’re unsure about your Falcon’s configuration, seek guidance from a qualified mechanic or Ford dealer.

Summary

Turning off traction control on a Ford Falcon is generally done via the center-console TC/ESC off switch. A quick press typically toggles off and lights the TC OFF indicator, while a press again or cycling the ignition re-enables it. Some generations require a brief press, others a longer hold to confirm the off state. Always use caution when TC is disabled, and re-enable it for regular driving to maintain stability and safety.

Where is the trac off button?

The "TRAC OFF" button is usually found on the dashboard to the left of the steering wheel, but its exact location can vary by model and is sometimes on the center console or accessible through a menu on the steering wheel. It typically features an icon of a car with squiggly lines behind it. To turn off traction control, simply press the button once. To also disable Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), some models require you to press and hold the button for a few seconds, which may cause a "VSC OFF" indicator to appear on the dashboard.
 
This video demonstrates the location of the traction control button on a Toyota Camry TRD: 21sAutoJeff ReviewsYouTube · Mar 19, 2023
Common locations

• Left of the steering wheel: This is a frequent spot, sometimes located next to the hood release. 
• Center console: The button may be on the center console, particularly in some models like the Highlander. 
• Steering wheel menus: Some modern cars require you to use the menu buttons on the steering wheel to navigate to the traction control settings. 

How to operate

1. Locate the button: Look for the icon of a car with squiggly lines, which may have "TRAC OFF" or "TRAC" on it. 
2. Press the button once: This will typically turn off traction control, and an indicator light on the dashboard will illuminate, often labeled "TRAC OFF". 
3. To turn it back on: Press the button again. The indicator light should turn off. 
4. To turn off Vehicle Stability Control (VSC): On many vehicles, you must press and hold the button for about three seconds to disable VSC in addition to traction control. The dashboard will likely show a "VSC OFF" indicator as well. 
5. To turn off completely: The systems will reset and turn back on automatically when you turn off the engine and start it again. 

How do I fully turn off traction control?

To fully turn off traction control, find the traction control button (often a car with squiggly lines) and press and hold it for a few seconds until a dashboard light or message indicates it's off. The exact method and duration may vary by vehicle, so some models might require a specific "pedal dance," turning on the ignition without starting the engine and pressing the gas pedal multiple times, or checking the vehicle's manual for specific instructions.
 
Standard method (most vehicles)
This video demonstrates how to turn off traction control on most vehicles: 45sThe Savvy ProfessorYouTube · Oct 30, 2023

1. Locate the traction control button, which typically has an icon of a car with wavy lines underneath. 
2. Press and hold the button for a few seconds. 
3. Look for a dashboard light or a message that says "TRAC OFF," "TCS OFF," or similar, indicating that the system is disabled. 
4. Note that if you turn the car off and back on, traction control will likely reset to its default "on" state. 

Advanced or alternative methods

• For some models (e.g., certain Fiat-Chrysler, Dodge, or Toyota vehicles): You may need to press and hold a specific button for five to seven seconds until you hear a chime or see an indicator light change, as shown in this YouTube video and described in Rhino USA's blog post. 
• For vehicles without a dedicated button: Turn the ignition to the "on" position without starting the engine, turn on your hazard lights, and press the gas pedal five times. Then, start the car. 
• To disable for a longer period (e.g., off-roading): For some vehicles, you may be able to permanently disable traction control by removing a fuse, though this will often also disable other safety features like ABS. Consult your owner's manual before attempting this. 

Important safety considerations

• Always drive with caution when traction control is off, especially in adverse weather conditions. 
• Be aware that some safety features, like trailer sway control, may also be deactivated when traction control is turned off. 
• Some systems automatically turn back on when a certain speed is reached. 
• Only turn off traction control if you know what you are doing and understand the risks involved. 

How do I turn off traction control on my Ford?

Then I'm going to hit. Okay. And then within this driver assist. That's where you'll find with the okay button uh where you can turn off or on the traction. Control same with the okay. Button.

Does a 2004 BA Falcon have traction control?

Only some were optioned with it so not all models had it. If there is no button than it won't have it. Base model didn't have it and XR6 XR8 where an option turbo from what I understand had it and Fairmont and Ghia had it.