The check engine light just came on with my 2014 Forester. At the same time, another warning light came on of a car with two zigzag lines behind it.

Picture this: It’s almost go time at your local dragstrip/autocross/road course, and you’re sitting there in a brand-new 2024 Honda Civic Type R (or its spiffier sibling, the Acura Integra Type S).

You'd be forgiven if years of goading from Top Gear co-host Jeremy Clarkson made you think you should be turning off your car's traction control to have the most fun ...