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Hey guys, been wondering for awhile now what exactly competitive mode on my c5 actually dose. My car is a 98 coupe auto without dual mode suspension (so as base model as you can go im guessing) I've been trying to figure out the difference between competitive driving mode and simply turning of traction control. To the best of my ability all ive been able to figure out is it wont do a burnout with full competitive mode on but it will if i put it in traction control off. Car dosent seem to feel any different with competitive on so I just wanted to get a better understanding of the mode.
Pressing the button once, briefly, turns traction control and active handling OFF. The body control module will not intervene for rear wheel spin or lateral slide. Anti-lock breaks will still work.
Pressing and holding the button for 5 seconds activates COMPETITION MODE - Rear tires are allowed to spin (traction control OFF) but active handling is ON and body control module will utilize braking & throttle management if it senses a slide.
I can't speak to what the manual for earlier year cars states but the 04 manual states "more than 5 seconds". In my 04 Comp driving comes on at 5 or 6 seconds of pressing the button.
My 2000 coupe takes 10 seconds for it to come on and I believe my manual states that as well. Wouldn't be the first thing they changed from the early to late model years.
From: In a parallel universe. Currently own 2014 Stingray Coupe.
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I am assuming you have active handling on the car - should say active handling above the round button on the console behind the shifter area. If not, you do not have the ability to go into competitive driving mode.
My understanding is when in comp mode, the system will also allow the car to yaw more before AH kicks in. Based on my track experience I think that's accurate. The C5 has by today's standards a primitive AH system. It's very intrusive on a race track and will slow you down bigtime. That being said it's an excellent safety net in wet and slippery conditions.