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Should the trac button be engaged for normal driving conditions in a 1996 Chrysler LHS and how does it affect my gas mileage?

The "Trac" button on a 1996 Chrysler LHS refers to the Traction Control System. You should not normally have the Trac button engaged for everyday driving.

Here's why:

* Traction Control's Purpose: Traction control is designed to help prevent wheel spin during acceleration, especially on slippery surfaces like snow, ice, or wet roads. It works by reducing engine power or applying brakes to a spinning wheel to maintain traction.

* Normal Driving: On dry pavement, engaging traction control is unnecessary and can even slightly reduce performance because the system is actively monitoring and potentially intervening.

* Gas Mileage: While the impact on gas mileage is usually minimal, constantly having traction control engaged *could* very slightly decrease fuel economy because of the system's interventions. The difference would likely be negligible unless you are driving in conditions that frequently require its use.

In short: Leave the Trac button OFF unless you're experiencing slippery conditions or significant wheelspin during acceleration. This will provide optimal performance and have minimal (if any) impact on your gas mileage.