What causes StabiliTrak and traction control light to come on?
The StabiliTrak and traction control lights on your vehicle's dashboard can illuminate for a variety of reasons, indicating an issue with your vehicle's stability and traction control systems. Understanding the potential causes can help you diagnose and address the problem effectively.
Common Causes of StabiliTrak and Traction Control Light Activation
- Wheel Speed Sensor Failure: The StabiliTrak and traction control systems rely on wheel speed sensors to monitor the rotation of each wheel. If one or more of these sensors fail, the lights will illuminate to indicate a problem.
- Low Tire Pressure: Improper tire inflation can cause the traction control system to activate, leading to the illumination of the warning lights.
- Faulty Steering Angle Sensor: The steering angle sensor provides information about the vehicle's steering position to the StabiliTrak system. If this sensor malfunctions, the lights will turn on.li>
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) System Failure: A problem with the ESC module or its associated components can trigger the warning lights.
- Loose or Damaged Wiring: Loose or damaged wiring in the StabiliTrak or traction control systems can cause the lights to illuminate.
If the StabiliTrak and traction control lights are illuminated, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and address the underlying issue. Ignoring the warning lights can lead to further problems and potentially compromise your vehicle's handling and safety.
Troubleshooting and Resolving the Issue
To troubleshoot the problem, the mechanic will typically start by performing a diagnostic scan to identify any error codes related to the StabiliTrak or traction control systems. They may also visually inspect the components, such as the wheel speed sensors, steering angle sensor, and wiring, to check for any signs of damage or wear. Depending on the findings, the mechanic may need to replace faulty parts or perform software updates to resolve the issue.
It's important to address the problem promptly, as the StabiliTrak and traction control systems play a crucial role in maintaining your vehicle's stability and traction, especially in adverse driving conditions. By understanding the common causes and taking proactive steps to address the issue, you can ensure your vehicle's safety and performance.
Why did my traction control and check engine light come on at the same time?
Faulty wheel speed sensors or even low tire pressure can all cause the check engine light to come on with the traction control light.
Does the StabiliTrak affect the engine?
Decreased engine performance is also a common consequence of a disabled StabiliTrak system. This is more of a safety precaution than an engine problem.
Can a bad wheel bearing cause the StabiliTrak light to come on?
Illuminated ABS Light
In most modern cars, a wheel bearing that has gone bad will cause the system to trip. This will cause an ABS speed sensor code to be stored and your dash light to illuminate to indicate that you have an issue.
Why does my service StabiliTrak and traction control light come on?
The stabilitrak and traction control messages will come on when there is a problem in the powertrain control computer (engine and transmission) There may or may not be a check engine light on. The place to start is to have the computer scanned for trouble codes. You can have this done free of charge at Auto Zone.
How much does it cost to fix StabiliTrak?
What Is The Stabilitrak Repair Cost? Despite the complexity of the Stabilitrak system, the good news is that repairs are generally quite affordable. Typically, a Stabilitrak repair falls within the range of $80 to $200, which is relatively reasonable for car repairs, considering the intricate nature of these systems.
Can I drive my car if it says service StabiliTrak and traction control?
One other note - Generally speaking the vehicle can be driven with the Stabilitrak warning lights on, however use caution if the road conditions are slick as the ABS safety feature is disabled.
How to reset StabiliTrak traction control?
How To Reset the StabiliTrak System on a GMC
- Put your GMC vehicle in park and turn off the engine.
- Turn the steering wheel fully clockwise, then fully counterclockwise.
- Wait 15 seconds, then restart the vehicle.
- Disconnect the battery if the warning persists.
Can needing an alignment cause StabiliTrak light to come on?
One common cause of the electronic stability control light is wheel misalignment. This can happen if your car hits a pothole or curb or if you go over a speed bump too fast. If your vehicle starts pulling to one side while driving, your wheels are likely misaligned.
What is the most common problem with StabiliTrak?
Loss of engine power or feeling like your engine is struggling to give you the power you're asking for is one of the most common symptoms of Stabilitrak problems, especially on its own or in combination with other problems like uneven tire wear.
How do you reset the StabiliTrak?
Calmly turn the steering wheel clockwise all the way, and then turn it counterclockwise all the way. Wait for 15 seconds before turning on your vehicle.
