Why are my check engine light and trac off light both on?
As a car owner, seeing warning lights illuminate on your dashboard can be concerning. The check engine light and the trac off light are two indicators that can signal various issues with your vehicle. Understanding what these lights mean and why they might be on is crucial for maintaining your car's health and ensuring your safety on the road.
Understanding the Check Engine Light
The check engine light (CEL) is part of your vehicle's onboard diagnostics system. It can illuminate for a variety of reasons, ranging from minor issues to significant engine problems. Here are some common causes:
- Loose or Damaged Gas Cap: A loose gas cap can cause fuel vapors to leak, triggering the CEL.
- Faulty Oxygen Sensor: This sensor monitors the exhaust gases and helps manage fuel efficiency. A malfunction can lead to increased emissions.
- Engine Misfire: If the engine is misfiring, it can cause poor performance and increased emissions.
- Exhaust System Issues: Problems with the catalytic converter or exhaust leaks can also trigger the CEL.
Understanding the Trac Off Light
The trac off light indicates that the traction control system (TCS) has been disabled. This system helps prevent wheel spin during acceleration, especially on slippery surfaces. Here are some reasons why this light might be on:
- Traction Control Disabled: The driver may have manually turned off the traction control system.
- Wheel Speed Sensor Issues: If the sensors that monitor wheel speed are malfunctioning, it can cause the TCS to deactivate.
- ABS Problems: Since the traction control system often works in conjunction with the anti-lock braking system (ABS), any issues with ABS can affect TCS.
Why Both Lights Might Be On
When both the check engine light and the trac off light are illuminated, it often indicates a more complex issue. Here are some potential reasons:
- Engine Performance Issues: Problems that affect engine performance can also impact the traction control system, leading to both lights being triggered.
- Faulty Sensors: A malfunctioning sensor that affects both the engine and traction control can cause both lights to activate.
- Electrical Issues: Wiring problems or faults in the vehicle's computer system can lead to multiple warning lights being illuminated.
What to Do Next
If you find that both the check engine light and the trac off light are on, it's essential to take action:
- Check for Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to read the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored in your vehicle's computer.
- Inspect the Gas Cap: Ensure that the gas cap is tight and in good condition.
- Visit a Professional: If you're unable to diagnose the issue yourself, it's best to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough inspection.
Ignoring these warning lights can lead to more severe problems down the line, so addressing them promptly is crucial for your vehicle's performance and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my check engine light and trac off light come on at the same time?
Possible Causes: Engine Problem Bad or Loose Gas Cap Evap Error Traction Control Problem Rainy or Snowy Road Conditions Wheel Speed Sensor ABS Issue Trac = Traction VSC = Vehicle Stability Control www.backyardmechanic.org By using this information user assumes all risk of use.
What would cause check engine light to come on and off?
For instance, a loose gas cap might cause the light to turn on, but once the cap is tightened during a stop, the light could turn off again. Similarly, variable engine conditions, like changes in humidity or temperature, can cause intermittent sensor readings that trigger the light.
What to do when trac off light is on?
“TRAC OFF” Indicator
Indicates that Traction Control is off. The TRAC system switches the traction control on/off to prevent wheelspin and further downshifting. To turn the TRAC system off, quickly press and release the button.
Is it safe to drive with the trac off light on?
While your car is typically safe to drive with the traction control light on, you should not drive it under certain conditions. If the traction control light, anti-lock braking system light, and red brake-warning light illuminate, your entire braking system may be affected.
What does it mean if my check engine light and traction control light on?
The check engine light and TCS light will come on when the computer sees a problem that affects the performance of the engine, stability control, or transmission. There are many problems that can fail that will trigger this. It could be a faulty sensor, wiring issue, module fault, engine malfunction, etc.
Can I drive with the check engine light on and the car shaking?
You should not continue to drive when the car is shaking and the check engine light is on. Such a scenario often indicates that your car is suffering from a severe misfire, which could damage the catalytic converter and other costly components.
How do I know if my traction control sensor is bad?
The TCS warning light will illuminate if an issue is detected with any one of the various components, and it's critical for your safety to follow up with having it diagnosed right away. Of course, the most obvious symptom of failed traction control is that it is not performing its function well or at all.
Does AutoZone do free diagnostics?
Visit Your Local AutoZone Store for Free Fix Finder Service
AutoZone offers a complimentary Fix Finder service that efficiently diagnoses warning lights, including Check Engine, ABS, and maintenance indicators. Simply visit your nearest AutoZone store when a warning light appears on your vehicle's dashboard.
Is it OK to drive with traction control light on?
Yes, it is generally safe to drive with your traction control light on. However, you should take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible.
How long can you drive with check engine light on VSC trac off light on?
If the engine is running normally, not overheating and the transmission is shifting then should be ok to drive 10 miles, the trac/vsc lights will turn on when the computer has detected a malfunction, this is normal and they will turn off when the check engine light problem is fixed.
