Is it safe to drive with the slip indicator light on?

Generally, you can continue driving, but treat the slip indicator as a warning that the vehicle’s traction control or stability system may be affected. If the light is flashing, the system is actively correcting wheel spin; if it remains solid, there may be a fault that should be checked soon. In any case, drive with extra caution and have the system inspected at your earliest opportunity.

What the slip indicator light means

The slip indicator light is typically the dashboard symbol for traction control or electronic stability control. It signals that the car monitors wheel speed and grip, and intervenes when slip is detected. The meaning can vary by make and model, but two common cases apply across most vehicles:

• Flashing light: Traction control (and possibly stability control) is actively braking individual wheels and/or reducing engine power to regain grip during a skid or loss of traction. This is normal under slippery conditions (wet, icy, or snowy surfaces) and is a sign the system is working.


• Steady light: There may be a fault or the system has been turned off (either automatically due to a problem or manually in some vehicles). Driving with the light steady on often means traction/stability control is not functioning as intended, and you should seek service soon.


• Note: Some cars also show related ABS or ESC warning lights. If the slip light comes on with other warnings, the consequences and urgency can be different; consult the owner's manual for model-specific guidance.

Ultimately, the exact behavior depends on your car’s make and model, so checking the owner’s manual or contacting the dealer for your vehicle is advisable if you’re unsure.

What to do if the light comes on

Follow these steps to stay safe and get the system checked as needed. The steps are intended as general guidance and may vary by vehicle.

When the light is flashing vs when it is steady

If the light is flashing, the traction control system is actively intervening to prevent wheel spin. You should continue driving with extra caution, reduce speed, and avoid abrupt acceleration or sharp turns.

If the light is steady, there may be a fault or the system is disabled. You should plan to have the vehicle inspected soon, especially if you notice unusual handling, reduced stability, or you see other warning lights (such as ABS or ESC).

Next steps you can take now:

• Check the tires: ensure they have adequate tread and are inflated to the recommended pressure. Worn or underinflated tires can trigger slip conditions and affect traction control performance.


• On wet, icy, or snow-covered roads, drive more slowly and leave extra distance to other vehicles. Avoid sudden steering or hard braking.


• Consult the owner’s manual for the exact meaning of the slip indicator light on your model and any model-specific warnings or reset procedures.


• If the light remains on after a short drive, or you notice abnormal handling, schedule a service appointment with a qualified mechanic or your dealership to diagnose the traction control/ESC/ABS system. They may read trouble codes with an OBD scanner and inspect wheel-speed sensors, wiring, and related components.

Until you get it inspected, prioritize safety: maintain a safe following distance, drive smoothly, and avoid high-risk driving conditions if possible.

Summary

The slip indicator light usually signals the traction control/ESC system. It can indicate active intervention (flashing light) or a fault (steady light). You can generally continue driving, but you should drive cautiously and arrange a diagnostic check soon. If you notice poor handling, other warning lights, or it stays on after a short drive, have the system inspected promptly to ensure the vehicle remains safe to drive.

Is the slip indicator light an emergency?

Avoid ignoring the light. While it may not immediately indicate a severe issue, the persistence of the light could point to underlying problems that, if left unaddressed, could compromise the vehicle's handling and safety features.

What does the slip indicator light mean when it goes on?

The slip indicator light means your vehicle's traction control is actively working to regain grip on a slippery surface, which is a normal function. If it remains on continuously, it indicates a potential problem, such as a faulty sensor, a malfunctioning traction control or ABS system, or tire issues like low pressure or worn treads.
 
This video explains what the slip light means and how to fix it: 41sOBD InsightsYouTube · Jul 19, 2024
If the light flashes while driving 

• Slow down: The system is actively correcting for low traction conditions. 
• Avoid sudden movements: Gently steer to help the system stabilize the vehicle. 
• Continue on your way: The light should turn off once you regain normal traction. 

If the light stays on

• Check your tires: Ensure they are properly inflated and have sufficient tread. 
• Restart your vehicle: Sometimes a simple restart can reset the system. 
• Turn off traction control: If your vehicle has a button for this (often labeled "TRAC"), try turning it off and then on again. If the light goes off, it's a sign the traction control system is the issue. 
• Drive cautiously: If the light is still on, the traction control and stability systems may not be working. Reduce speed and avoid hard braking or acceleration. 
• Get it inspected: If the light remains on after a restart or in normal driving conditions, have a mechanic inspect the system, as it could be a sign of a faulty sensor or system malfunction. 

Can you drive with a slip light on?

Check for Continuous Illumination If the slip indicator light stays on continuously, it may indicate a malfunction in the traction control system. In such cases, it's safe to drive, but with added caution, especially under conditions where traction might be compromised.

Can I keep driving with a traction control light on?

It is safe to drive with the traction control light on in dry conditions, but you should get it checked by a mechanic soon because the system may not be working correctly. If the light stays on during slippery conditions like rain, snow, or ice, it is unsafe to drive because the system is likely disabled and you will have reduced traction and stability. 
When you can likely drive

• Dry roads: If the light came on for a moment and then turned off, or if the roads are dry and the car is driving normally, it's generally safe to continue driving. The light may have been triggered by a minor, temporary glitch. 
• Get it checked: Even if you can drive, you should still take the car to a mechanic for a diagnosis as soon as you can, as a persistent light indicates a system failure. 

When you should not drive

• Slippery conditions: Driving with the light on in snow, rain, or ice is unsafe because the traction control system is likely not functioning, and you will have reduced stability and be more susceptible to skidding. 
• Other warning lights: If other lights, such as the ABS light, are also on, it's even more critical to avoid driving, as these systems are interconnected and a failure could impact braking efficiency. 

Why it's important to get it fixed

• Safety: Traction control is a vital safety feature that prevents skidding, especially in poor weather. 
• Potential for more serious issues: A persistent light can indicate a problem with sensors or wiring, and ignoring it could lead to more costly repairs. 
• Possible system failure: A continuous light means the system is deactivated, and your car's ability to maintain traction when you need it most will be gone.