Why won’t the traction control light go off?
The traction control system has been standard on vehicles since 2012. It helps prevent you from skidding when driving on slippery surfaces. However, sometimes there may be an issue with the system, causing the traction control light to come on. What does it mean if the traction control light won’t go off, and what should I do? We’ll answer these questions to help you take control of your journey again. We’ll also address other concerns to help you better understand the system.
Why the Traction Control Light Won’t Go Off
If the traction control light stays on, there could be a problem with the ABS system, such as the wheel speed sensors or reluctor ring. It could also be due to a faulty steering angle sensor, ABS control module, or battery. If not, it could be a wiring problem, a blown fuse, or low brake fluid. We’ll go into each point in detail so you can figure out exactly what’s going on.
1. ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Failure
ABS Sensor
The wheel speed sensors measure the movement of each wheel. When the wheels turn at different speeds, the traction control system kicks in and helps the vehicle regain traction. During normal operation, the traction control light will be illuminated until traction is regained. Depending on the location of the sensor, deposits can build up. If dirt accumulates on the sensor or the electronics are damaged, the data cannot be verified and the light will come on. The traction control system will also not operate during this time.
2. Defective ABS reluctor ring
Defective ABS ring
The ABS ring helps measure the speed difference between the wheels. The information provided by the ring is used by the speed sensor and sent to the ABS controller. If the ABS ring is broken, you won’t get accurate readings and it will cause chaos throughout the system.
The traction control and ABS lights will come on to warn you of the problem. You will also feel a pulsating sensation when you press the brake pedal. Traction control will not engage until the problem is fixed.
3. Faulty steering angle sensor
Steering angle sensor
The steering column has an angle sensor that measures the angular position of the steering wheel. It also memorizes the position of the steering wheel and detects when it has returned to the center position. Like any other sensor, this sensor is not fail-safe. If the steering angle sensor does not provide a value, the ABS and traction control systems will not function. A light on the dashboard will also come on.
4. Wiring Issues
Damaged Car Wiring
With all the sensors needed to make these systems work, you can expect to need a lot of cables and connectors. If one of these cables becomes frayed or cuts, you will lose the connection. It’s also possible that one of the connectors is corroded or damaged. Finding wiring problems can be difficult. Most people don’t want to trace all the connections until they find a disconnect.
5. Blown fuse
Car fuse blown
Fuses are responsible for protecting all electrical functions. However, these fuses are known to blow from time to time. When a fuse blows, the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) or ABS control module won’t get the correct information and will report an error.
Because the traction control system is linked to the ABS, a blown fuse can cause both systems to fail. You may see lights on the dashboard for both systems.
6. Low Brake Fluid Level
Brake Fluid
Hydraulic brake fluid is needed to create pressure to apply the brakes. If the brake fluid level is too low, your brakes won’t have enough pressure to operate. You may notice that the pedal feels spongy when you press it. It may also take longer to stop your vehicle. If the brake fluid level is too low, the traction control and brake lights will come on.
There is no good reason for low brake fluid levels because the system is closed. If you notice the level dropping, you probably have a leak.
7. ABS Control Module Defect
ABS Control Module Car
You may not know what the ABS control module has to do with the traction control system. These two systems are related because they use the same parts. The ABS control module is responsible for running a series of self-checks when the car is first started. If a fault occurs during this self-check, the ABS light will come on. The traction control light will also come on at the same time.
8. Low Battery Voltage
If your car’s battery is weak, it may not have enough power to run vital systems. Some systems, including traction control, will malfunction if they need to adjust power. Both traction control and ABS require a lot of power to keep up with electronic readings and adjustments, and losing power even for a short time can cause warning lights to come on.
How to Fix Traction Control That Won’t Turn Off
When your traction control system stops working, you need to find out what’s going on and get your car back to normal operation. There are a few steps you learned while servicing your car. If you’re confident in performing these steps, start with number 1.
1. Read Error Codes from the ABS Control Module
Reading anti-lock brake system codes is different than reading general DTCs. Not all code scanners can read these, so you may need to upgrade to a more specialized one. Once you have the code, it’s your job to understand what it means and figure out how to fix it. For more help, check our error code library.
2. Check the ABS sensor, ring, and wiring
Locate the ABS sensor and ring and perform a physical inspection. You should also check the wiring. If any of these parts are faulty, they will need to be replaced.
You can check the sensor readings using a multimeter, scanner, and the procedures provided. Follow the instructions in your vehicle’s service manual.
3. Check the Brake Fluid
Checking and refilling your brake fluid is a simple task. Here are some steps to consider:
– Locate your brake master cylinder reservoir. Look for it near the firewall in front of where the brake pedal is.
– If your vehicle has a clear reservoir, you can check the fluid level without removing the cap. Make sure the fluid is up to the fill line.
– If it is a metal container, you may need to remove the cap to check the level.
– Inspect the fluid lines with the dipstick and check the fluid level.
– If the system needs more fluid, add it now.
– Don’t forget to check for any leaks that are causing the low fluid level and repair that leak as well.
– Replace the cap and see if the light goes out. When checking your brake fluid, note whether it is old or dirty. If replacement is necessary, be sure to use the correct type of brake fluid.
4. Check the Fuses
If you are unable to get power to the traction control system, the fuses should be checked next. Refer to the fuse box diagram to find the appropriate fuses to check. Remove the fuse and check the cable inside. If the cable is broken, the fuse must be replaced. Every fuse has a specific amperage. If you replace it, you must install a new one of the same amperage.
5. Charge the battery and reset the codes.
If the battery doesn’t have a sufficient charge, you can restore the charge by connecting it to a trickle charger or battery charger. If the same problem persists after charging, your battery may be old and needs to be replaced.
Once you’ve identified and fixed the problem, you’ll need to clear the codes using a scanner. This procedure should turn the light off. If the traction control light comes on again, some other problem is occurring.
6. Consult a professional
All of this is not for inexperienced mechanics. We have a lot of experience and can handle any job. If you feel you don’t have enough experience, consult a mechanic. You can search online for reputable mechanics in your area. Otherwise, ask your colleagues, family, and friends for advice.
Can I drive with the traction control light on?Your car will continue to function without the traction control system. But when you encounter a slippery road surface, your wheels won’t be able to get the traction they need. This situation can be dangerous, so we recommend that you repair the system as soon as possible.
Why is my traction control light on? It’s normal for the light to be on while the system is working, but it should turn off afterwards. If it doesn’t, a faulty part may be the cause. Check the wheel speed sensors, pickup ring, steering angle sensor, ABS control module, battery, wiring, fuses, and brake fluid.
How much does it cost to repair a traction control system? It depends on which part is faulty. If you only need to replace a fuse or top off your brake fluid, the repair will cost around $10. Other replacement parts, such as the ABS control module or steering angle sensor, can be much more expensive, usually several hundred dollars.
Why is the traction control light on?The traction control light comes on when the system is up and working. If not, a key part of the traction control system and ABS may be faulty.
Do bad tires affect traction control?Poor tire condition makes it harder to maintain traction when driving on slippery surfaces. The traction control system must step in to correct the problem. However, it’s best to replace worn-out tires before they get into a dangerous situation. There must still be plenty of tread remaining to ensure grip on the road.
If your traction control system indicator light comes on, there’s no need to worry immediately. In some cases, this may simply be part of normal operation. You should only worry if the light doesn’t go off automatically. But even then, there’s no need to panic.
Take your time and go through our diagnostic procedures. Usually, it’s pretty easy to find what’s causing the problem, especially if you have an advanced code scanner. Otherwise, visit your local mechanic to have the problem fixed before you drive on slippery roads again.