What is the purpose of the snow and mud switch in a braking system?

The purpose of the snow and mud switch in a braking system is to enhance traction control. When activated, this switch adjusts the vehicle's braking system to help maintain traction on slippery surfaces such as snow or mud. By modifying the way brakes are applied, it prevents the wheels from locking up, thus allowing for smoother stops and better control of the vehicle in adverse conditions. This is particularly crucial when driving in low-traction situations, where maintaining control is essential for safety.

The other options refer to different aspects of vehicle performance. Fuel efficiency relates to how effectively a vehicle uses fuel, which is not directly impacted by the snow and mud switch. Fast braking pertains to the speed at which a vehicle can come to a stop, but that is not the primary function of this switch. Additionally, while optimizing traction can help indirectly reduce brake wear by preventing skidding, the primary role of the snow and mud switch is to enhance traction control specifically.