How to reset traction control on Chevy Cruze 2016?

If you're experiencing issues with the traction control system on your 2016 Chevy Cruze, you may need to reset it. Traction control is a safety feature that helps maintain control of your vehicle by reducing wheel spin, but it can sometimes malfunction or need to be reset. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to reset the traction control on your Chevy Cruze 2016.

Steps to Reset Traction Control

1. Turn off the engine and apply the parking brake.


2. Locate the traction control button, usually found on the dashboard or center console. It may be labeled "TC" or have a symbol of a car with squiggly lines underneath.


3. Press and hold the traction control button for about 5-10 seconds until the traction control light on the dashboard starts blinking or turns off.


4. Start the engine and check if the traction control light is still on. If it is, repeat steps 1-3 until the light turns off.


5. Once the traction control light is off, the system has been successfully reset.

If the traction control light remains on or the issue persists, there may be a more serious problem with the traction control system that requires professional diagnosis and repair.

Reasons to Reset Traction Control

• Malfunctioning Sensors: The traction control system relies on various sensors, such as wheel speed sensors, to detect and respond to wheel slip. If one of these sensors is malfunctioning, it can cause the traction control system to behave erratically, requiring a reset.


• Software Glitches: Like any complex electronic system, the traction control system in your Chevy Cruze can sometimes experience software glitches or errors that require a reset to resolve.


• Aftermarket Modifications: If you've made any modifications to your Chevy Cruze, such as installing larger or different tires, the traction control system may need to be reset to accommodate the changes.

Resetting the traction control system on your Chevy Cruze 2016 is a relatively simple process that can help resolve a variety of issues. If the problem persists or you're unsure of the cause, it's always best to consult a professional mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.

How to reset StabiliTrak Chevy?

To reset a Chevy StabiliTrak, you can either try a battery disconnect (by disconnecting the negative terminal for at least 10 minutes), or a steering wheel reset (by turning the ignition on, turning the wheel fully left, then fully right, and then restarting the engine). If these methods don't work, the light may persist due to a more complex issue, and you may need to check for trouble codes with an OBD scanner. 
This video demonstrates how to reset the StabiliTrak light by disconnecting the battery: 40sThe Savvy ProfessorYouTube · May 8, 2023
Method 1: Disconnect the battery 

1. Turn off your vehicle's engine. 
2. Open the hood and locate the battery. 
3. Using a wrench, disconnect the negative (-) battery terminal first to avoid electrical damage. 
4. Wait for about 10–15 minutes to allow any residual charge to dissipate. 
5. Reconnect the negative battery terminal securely. 
6. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. The system will perform a self-check, and the light should turn off if the issue is resolved. 

Method 2: Steering wheel reset

1. Turn the ignition key to the "ON" position but do not start the engine. 
2. Turn the steering wheel all the way to the left, hold for a few seconds, then turn it all the way to the right and hold again. 
3. Turn the ignition off, then start the engine. The StabiliTrak light should be off. 
   • Note: Some procedures may require you to turn the ignition on, hit enter (if applicable), turn the ignition off, then turn the ignition back on to complete the process after the wheels are straight, says this YouTube video. 

You can watch this video to see a demonstration of the steering wheel reset procedure: 59sGoat Rope GarageYouTube · Mar 9, 2019
If the light remains on

• Use an OBD scanner: Scan the vehicle for trouble codes (DTCs) as the StabiliTrak system may be affected by other issues, such as engine misfires or problems with sensors. 
• Inspect the components: If the problem persists, inspect components like wheel speed sensors, wiring, the steering position sensor, or the throttle body for any faults. 
• Check brake fluid: Low brake fluid can also trigger the StabiliTrak warning light. 
• Consult a professional: If you've performed these steps and the light is still on, it indicates a more serious problem that requires professional diagnosis. 

How do I reset my traction control system?

To reset your traction control system, first try turning the vehicle off and then restarting it, as this often clears minor glitches. If the light remains on, the system may have a deeper issue that requires a diagnostic scan tool to read and clear the fault codes. For a temporary reset, some sources suggest disconnecting the negative battery terminal for 5–30 minutes, while other vehicle-specific methods include turning the steering wheel from lock to lock and then driving for a couple of minutes. 
Simple methods

• Restart the vehicle: Turn the engine off completely, wait a few moments, and then start the car again. This can reset the system after a temporary issue. 
• Use the specific traction control button: If you intentionally turned off the system, look for a button with a car and squiggly lines symbol and press it to re-enable it. 
• Turn the steering wheel: Some vehicles can be reset by turning the steering wheel all the way to the left, then all the way to the right, and then driving for a short distance. 
• Clean the vehicle's wheel speed sensors: If you know how to safely access them, you can clean the wheel speed sensors. If cleaning doesn't work, there could be a more serious underlying issue. 

This video demonstrates how to reset the traction control system using a scan tool and other methods: 57sDashboard warning lights YouTube · Oct 15, 2023
Advanced methods

• Use a diagnostic scan tool: A code reader can identify the specific error code that is causing the warning light to stay on. 
• Disconnect the battery: Disconnect the negative battery terminal for 5 to 30 minutes, then re-connect it and start the car. This can clear memory codes in the computer. 

When to seek professional help

• If the light comes back on after trying the above steps, it indicates a persistent problem. 
• If you are uncomfortable with these procedures, it is safest to take your car to a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair. 

This video explains how to find and fix the source of the traction control warning light: 46sDashboard warning lights YouTube · Jan 2, 2025

Why is my traction control light on my Chevy Cruze?

The traction control light on a Chevy Cruze is on because either the system is working due to slippery conditions, or it has detected a fault. Common causes for a persistent light include issues with a faulty wheel speed sensor (often from dirt or damage), problems with the ABS module or wiring, or a misfire. A temporary light is normal, but if it stays on, it indicates a system malfunction that should be investigated.
 
This video explains how to diagnose and fix the service traction control light on a Chevy Cruze: 57sDeuceLiterYouTube · May 27, 2025
Common reasons for the light to be on

• Faulty Wheel Speed Sensor: This is a very common cause on a Chevy Cruze. A sensor can be dirty, damaged, or have a faulty connection. The system relies on these sensors to detect wheel speed, so a bad sensor will trigger the light. 
• Other Sensor Issues: A bad wheel bearing, a faulty ABS module, or even a loose ground wire can all cause the system to malfunction and turn on the light. 
• Engine Misfire: A misfire in the engine can cause the traction control light to come on, sometimes accompanied by the check engine light. A faulty coil pack or spark plug can cause a misfire. 
• Wiring Problems: Damaged or loose wires connected to the sensors or control modules can disrupt the system's signals. 
• Temporary Slippery Conditions: The light will briefly flash if the system is actively working to prevent wheel slip in rain, snow, or on slippery roads. If the light goes off after a few seconds, it was just the system in action. 

What you should do

1. Scan for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): Use an OBD-II scanner to read the codes. This is the best way to pinpoint the exact issue, as it will often point to a specific wheel speed sensor or other component. 
2. Inspect Wheel Speed Sensors: Check each wheel's speed sensor for obvious dirt, damage, or debris. Clean them if necessary. 
3. Check Fuses and Wiring: Look for any loose or damaged wiring, particularly around the sensors. Also, check related fuses. 
4. Address Misfires: If a misfire is the cause, this will also trigger a check engine light. Address the issue by checking spark plugs and coil packs. 
5. Consult a Mechanic: If you can't find the problem or don't have a scanner, take your vehicle to a mechanic. They can properly diagnose the issue and make the necessary repairs. 

You can watch this video to learn how to diagnose and fix service StabiliTrak on a Chevy Cruze: 59sDeuceLiterYouTube · May 7, 2021

How to turn off 2016 Chevy Cruze traction control?

The Traction Control Off message will display in the Driver Information Center. Turn off traction control if the vehicle is stuck and rocking the vehicle is required. To turn off both traction control and StabiliTrak, press and hold the button.