Is it expensive to fix StabiliTrak?
Costs vary widely. In most cases you’ll spend a few hundred dollars for sensor or wiring repairs, while more extensive failures involving control modules can push bills toward the low thousands, based on typical rates through 2024–2025.
StabiliTrak is GM’s stability control system that works in concert with ABS sensors and other vehicle sensors. When the system detects a fault, the warning light may come on, and repairs can involve sensors, wiring, or control modules. The exact price depends on the faulty component, your vehicle’s model/year, and local labor rates.
Common causes and typical price ranges
The following breakdown covers common failure points and the price ranges you might expect for parts and labor.
- Wheel speed sensor replacement (front or rear) — Estimated total: $150-$350. Parts typically $40-$180; labor $100-$170.
- Steering angle sensor replacement — Estimated total: $350-$800. Parts typically $150-$600; labor $200-$250.
- Yaw-rate sensor (gyroscope) replacement — Estimated total: $350-$900. Parts typically $200-$600; labor $150-$350.
- ABS/Stability control module replacement — Estimated total: $600-$1,500. Parts typically $400-$1,000; labor $200-$500.
- Wiring harness or connector repair — Estimated total: $200-$1,100. Parts typically $20-$100; labor $180-$1,000.
- Software reprogramming or module recalibration — Estimated total: $80-$1,000 depending on depth (reflash vs. new module). Basic reflash often $50-$150; full module programming $300-$600.
Costs vary by model, year, and region. The need for multiple parts or specialized software can raise the price, and some repairs require programming tools that dealers or specialty shops may be more likely to provide.
What to know about diagnosis and getting the best price
Before committing to a repair, obtain a formal diagnostic with an itemized estimate. Since StabiliTrak issues can stem from several components, multiple codes can appear, and the cheapest fix isn’t always the correct one. Compare quotes from a GM dealer and a trusted independent shop, and ask about warranty on parts and labor. If your vehicle is still under factory warranty or an extended warranty, check coverage before paying out of pocket.
Being informed and shopping around can help you avoid unnecessary work while ensuring safety-critical systems are properly repaired.
Summary
StabiliTrak repairs span a broad cost range, from a few hundred dollars for sensor or wiring fixes to well over a thousand dollars for module replacements or extensive harness work. The exact price depends on the faulty component, vehicle model, and labor rates. Start with a diagnostic, request itemized quotes, and compare dealers and independent shops to secure the best value while keeping safety in focus.
Can I drive my car if it says service StabiliTrak?
Yes, you can typically drive your car if it says "Service StabiliTrak," but you should do so with extreme caution and get it inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible. The StabiliTrak system is designed to help with stability, especially during sudden maneuvers or in poor weather, and if it is malfunctioning, it could lead to reduced traction control and vehicle stability.
Before you drive
- Reduce your speed and avoid aggressive driving: Since the system is offline, it won't be able to help you if you lose control.
- Avoid driving in hazardous conditions: Do not drive in heavy rain, snow, or on icy roads, as your car will have reduced stability.
- Check for other warnings: If other warning lights are on, like the engine light, this could be a sign of a more serious problem affecting the StabiliTrak system.
What to do next
- Get a professional diagnosis: Take your car to a qualified mechanic to have the issue diagnosed and fixed. The problem could be a simple sensor or a more complex engine-related issue.
- Don't ignore the warning: The "Service StabiliTrak" light should not be ignored, as it indicates a problem with a key safety system.
What triggers service StabiliTrak?
Service StabiliTrak Light Meanings & Causes
This could be due to a blown fuse, wheel misalignment, or faulty sensors. The warning light can also come on if you've accidentally bumped the button that turns off the StabiliTrak. The button is the same as your traction control button.
How do you fix StabiliTrak?
To fix StabiliTrak, first try a simple reset by shutting off the engine for a few seconds and restarting. If the light returns, the issue requires diagnosis, which often involves using an OBD-II scanner to check for error codes. Common fixes include inspecting and cleaning wheel speed sensor wiring, replacing a faulty wheel speed sensor or wheel bearing, and addressing engine misfires like bad spark plugs or ignition coils.
Basic troubleshooting
This video demonstrates how to manually turn off StabiliTrak and its warning indicators: 53sWILDWHISKEYWOLFYouTube · Aug 3, 2025
- Restart the vehicle: Safely pull over, turn the engine off for about 15–25 seconds, and then restart it. The system may reset itself.
- Check the battery: A weak or failing battery can sometimes cause electrical issues that trigger the StabiliTrak light.
- Disconnect the battery: For a more thorough reset, disconnect both battery terminals for 10–15 minutes. Remember to reconnect them securely afterward.
- Inspect steering angle sensor: Turn the steering wheel all the way to the left, then all the way to the right, and then restart the engine.
- Remove aftermarket devices: Unplug any aftermarket electronics, like Bluetooth adapters or dash cams, as they can sometimes interfere with the system's voltage.
Advanced diagnostics and fixes
You can watch this video to learn how to use an OBD-II scanner to diagnose StabiliTrak issues: 55sHVAC Mechanic YouTube · Apr 10, 2023
- Scan for error codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to read any stored trouble codes. This will point you to the specific problem. You can often have this done for free at auto parts stores.
- Inspect wheel speed sensors and wiring: A faulty wheel speed sensor is a very common cause. Check the wiring for any damage or corrosion. For a temporary test, you can try cleaning corroded connectors with contact spray.
- Check for engine misfires: StabiliTrak and traction control will shut down if the engine is misfiring. If an OBD-II scan shows a misfire code, check spark plugs and ignition coils. Replacing faulty components can fix the StabiliTrak light.
- Examine wheel bearings and tone rings: Damage to the tone ring, a toothed ring on the wheel hub, can cause the sensor to send incorrect readings. Visually inspect the ring for cracks or missing teeth. A damaged tone ring requires replacing the wheel hub assembly.
This video shows how to inspect and potentially fix a damaged tone ring on a wheel bearing: 59sRobinson's Auto RepairYouTube · Jul 24, 2023
When to see a professional
This video explains why professional diagnosis might be necessary for StabiliTrak issues: 1mMechanic BaseYouTube · Jan 31, 2024
- If you have performed the basic steps and the light returns, it is best to take the vehicle to a professional mechanic or a dealership. They have the expertise and specialized tools to accurately diagnose and repair complex issues, especially those related to the ABS and steering systems.
How much does StabiliTrak cost to fix?
StabiliTrak repair costs range from about $100 to over $1,000, depending on the specific issue and the vehicle. Simple fixes, like replacing a wheel speed sensor, can cost around $200, while more complex problems like repairing a steering angle sensor or other brake/ABS system issues can be more expensive. A diagnostic scan is needed to identify the exact problem and provide a more accurate quote, and these scans can sometimes be performed for free at parts stores.
Cost breakdown by repair type
- Diagnostic scan: $0$ 0$0 (at parts store) to $70$ 70$70 or more at a professional shop
- Simple fixes (e.g., wheel speed sensor): $100$ 100$100 to $500$ 500$500
- More complex repairs (e.g., steering angle sensor, brake/ABS system): $100$ 100$100 to $1,500$ 1 comma 500$1,500 or more
- Very complex or advanced diagnosis: Can cost up to $875$ 875$875 or more in some cases
What to do
- Get a diagnostic scan: Visit an auto parts store for a free scan, or a professional shop for a paid scan to determine the exact cause of the StabiliTrak warning light.
- Request a detailed quote: Once the problem is identified, the shop can provide an estimate for the repair.
- Compare prices: Get quotes from a couple of different mechanics or dealerships to compare costs before proceeding with the repair.
