Why is my Chevy Traverse ABS and Traction control light on?
The traction control and the antilock brake systems form the main parts of the stability control system in any car and are installed in compliance with government regulations. The traction control is responsible for maintaining traction when accelerating, while the ABS maintains traction when braking. In case of any issues with the two systems, the control light will turn on.
This can be attributed to several reasons. For one, it could be that the ABS is malfunctioning. It is important to note that both the ABS and traction share the same control module. Hence, if there is an issue with one of them, the light comes on. Other reasons include low brake fluid levels, damaged wheel speed sensors, and the traction control if off.
This article summarizes some of the reasons why the ABS and traction control light illuminates your dashboard.
Why is my Chevy Traverse ABS and Traction control light on?
Whenever you see an unfamiliar light on your dashboard, it is natural to feel concerned. Some warning lights are serious and require immediate attention, while for others, it is possible to still drive the car with the light. Whatever it is, it is important to be in the know and find out what light is on, and what it implies.
The Antilock braking system and traction control are controlled through the same module. Hence, when the light comes on, it can be difficult to discover the root cause. However, below are some of the reasons why the ABS and traction control light may be illuminated on your Chevy Traverse.
The ABS system is malfunctioning
Since both the ABS and Traction control share one module, if there is one problem with one mechanism, it can manifest as the light being turned on. Hence, if the brake system is malfunctioning, the light of the traction control is likely to come on as well.
Low brake fluid levels
The light may also come on as a result of low brake fluid levels. Vehicles nowadays are equipped with sensors that can send signals to help you monitor the performance of the corresponding component. For instance, there is one that can detect when the fluid is low. This poses a risk, and you may even notice that the braking system feels spongy and the car responds differently. When the brake fluid levels are low, there will be system indicators including the warning light.
Damaged wheel speed sensors
Most vehicles come with wheel speed sensors that are tasked with measuring the rate of movement of each wheel. In case of any irregularity, or the wheels are moving at different speeds, the traction control is prompted to necessitate a shift in the power to even out wheel speed. Other times, it could be that the sensors are damaged or dirty causing an incorrect reading. This can cause the light to come on.
Traction control is off
Anytime you turn off the traction control, the light may come on. Vehicle manufacturers do not advise drivers to turn off the traction control due to safety reasons. Still, there are circumstances where the driver may feel obliged to turn off the traction control for one reason or the other. Therefore, if you did not intend to turn off the traction control, you can check to see that it is on. If you are not sure how to go about it, you can always consult the vehicle manual to see how to.
FAQs
Can I drive with both the traction control and ABS lights on?
If both the ABS and the TCS warning lights come on, it is not advisable to drive the car until the issue is fixed. This means that the braking system is affected and hence may not be reliable to stop the vehicle when needed to. You are required to tow the vehicle to a repair shop.
What does the ABS sensor do?
The ABS sensor is responsible for monitoring the wheel speed and its rotation to optimize brake and traction control. The wheel speed data obtained is used to determine the right time to activate ABS and the amount of pressure that should be applied to safely stop the vehicle without locking the brakes.
What can go wrong with traction control?
The traction control has its benefits, but sometimes, you may feel it is best to turn it off. One of these scenarios is when you are trying to enter or leave a parking space with rutted snow. Sometimes the system can be so sensitive that, at the first sign of a wheel slip, it immediately reduces the power, or keeps the brakes applied preventing you from going anywhere.
Conclusion
The new Antilock braking system and the traction control have made the stabilization system much safer and smarter. Still, their operation would not be complete without the addition of a sensor. It is this sensor that sends relevant signals and any problem with the system will result in the illumination of a dashboard warning light that implies that the traction control and ABS are disabled. Hopefully, now you have an idea why the light is on.
