A traction Control System (TCS) is a safety system in cars that helps prevent the loss of traction of the wheels when running on the road.
It is one of the most important safety features, especially when you drive at high speed, on slippery roads, or in the rain.
However, please note that a traction control light and loss of power can signal a problematic car. If this situation happens to you, don’t be so worried!
This post can help you to resolve this matter easily. We will explain why the traction light turns on and what happens to your car in this circumstance.
When A Car Traction Control Light And Loss Of Power, What Does It Mean?
When the TCS (Traction Control System) engages, or the traction control system cannot work properly due to a faulty sensor or part, the traction control light on the dashboard may illuminate.
If, on the other hand, anti skid light comes on when you’re traveling in normal driving conditions, There’s a problem with the system.
Depending on your circumstances, a lit anti skid light on car may indicate that the system is operational.
When your car’s tires lose contact with the road due to slippery, wet, or windy circumstances, the traction-control system detects it. This helps the car run smoothly despite starting rough.
When your tires slip, your traction-control system activates, shifting power from the slipping tire to the tires that are still securely gripping the road.
This power transfer enables you to continue driving safely in the appropriate direction. Without the traction-control system, you risk hydroplaning or going off the road.
What Can Cause Traction Control Light To Come On?
Faulty Wheel Speed Sensors
If the light blinks on and off seldom, it might signal that the system is “hard coded” or is starting to fail.
This problem properly stems from malfunctioning wheel-speed sensors, which warn your car’s computer of a potential loss of grip.
When the traction control light came on, this would mean that the system is not working, so be cautious once you observe this in bad weather.
Malfunctioning Steering Angle Sensor
The steering angle sensor determines the steering wheel’s angle and the pace at which it is rotated. The steering column’s sensor is installed to precisely track the angle and rate.
The stability control system often uses this sensor to identify the driver’s intended path.
If there is a defective steering angle sensor, it will cause traction control light on and no acceleration. A faulty clock spring may bring up stability control concerns.
Bad Traction Control Module
When you are having a traction control issue, its safety feature is deactivated. It could be more challenging to keep the car under control during inclement weather.
The traction control system (TCS) indicator light on the dashboard will be illuminated, and the system might be turned off entirely.
Poor Road Conditions
Your traction control system may not be able to manage extreme driving conditions.
For example, if you reside in an area with a lot of snow and ice on the ground, the roadways will be difficult to retain traction on.
The traction control light on your dashboard may activate when traction becomes too problematic. There isn’t much you can do except move your vehicle to a safer place with better roads.
Should you not have winter tires, consider purchasing them. These tires are far more adapted to slippery road conditions than all-season ones.
You can purchase a second set of wheels and tires, given that you have the room. Also, consider balancing your tires at home for better handling on the road.
ABS System Malfunctioning
ABS (Anti-Locking Braking System) and TCS frequently share many of the same functioning elements.
As a result, if your ABS sensors malfunction, the car T/C light may come up. In this instance, you will most likely observe not just a TCS light but also an ABS light.
TCS Must Be Reprogrammed
If your traction control light continues to illuminate when it should not, the system itself is to blame.
The traction control system may need to be reprogrammed when it is having error codes, which might occur as time passes. Sometimes, they are the consequence of a manufacturing flaw or oversight.
Only a trained mechanic who specializes in your vehicle’s make and model will be able to resolve the programming difficulties and fix engine codes.
What Should You Do If The Traction Control Light On And Your Car Loses Power?
Here are some recommendations from our team on how to fix traction control light.
Replacing A Wheel Speed Sensor
You may have an expert identify which sensor is defective and replace it for roughly $135-$250. You can also do it yourself for a little more than $100.
If you wish to DIY, an OBD2 scanner can typically tell you where the problem exists. You shouldn’t require anything extravagant, so a $20-$100 unit should suffice.
You may also take your vehicle to a nearby parts store, where they would most likely read the code for free.
Replacing An ABS-Based Traction Control Module
This problem is most likely caused by a faulty wheel speed sensor or a faulty ABS control module. You may again use an OBD2 scanner to identify which is malfunctioning.
If it is the control module, you may get it repaired or replaced by a mechanic.
Reprogramming A Traction Control System
Reprogramming a TCS system on your own is not a wise move. You will need to take it to a trained technician if this is the case.
Fortunately, the job should take no more than an hour. A diagnostic price of around $100 is typical, with an extra $50-$100 for labor.
FAQs
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Your Traction Control Lights?
The traction-control light often indicates that your vehicle is functioning well by keeping a grip on a slick road, but it might also signify that your vehicle has broken sensors or cables.
Maintain road safety by sending your car to a reputable auto repair shop right after noticing the first hint.
Not only the traction light, but dashboard warning lights are, as the name implies, warnings as well.
They will alert you of nearly anything wrong with your vehicle. For example, if you unintentionally activate the parking brake, there is a light for that.
There’s also a light indicating when you’re running low on fuel. When a system, such as your ABS, fails, a light will illuminate. Almost every system in your automobile has a light or a warning.
What Does It Cost To Repair A Traction Control System?
The typical cost of replacing a traction control switch is between $101 and $113. Labor expenses are expected to be between $46 and $58 per hour, with components costing $56.
This range excludes taxes and fees and does not consider your type of car or region.
Can You Drive With the Traction Control Light On?
Yes and No.
It is only safe to drive with the TCS light if you lose traction, indicating that the system is engaged. Driving without traction control might cause your car to spin and slide about on the road.
Maintaining your TCS operational and activated in case of inclement weather is recommended. This gives you complete control over your car at all times.
Still, driving with your TCS light illuminated might be hazardous when accompanied with other signs, like loss of power or no acceleration.
You raise the possibility of losing control of your car in these cases. Because the TCS controls your vehicle’s stability and traction, it may not handle slick roads as well as it should.
Conclusion
While driving with a traction control light and loss of power can be safe in some circumstances, we don’t advise you to do so.
Your entire braking system may be compromised when your traction control, anti-lock braking system, and red brake-warning lights are on.
After reading this post, we hope you have understood more about this issue and how to deal with it.
If this occurs, having your automobile towed to a professional mechanic or car repair shop is a better choice because driving your vehicle under this condition may be unsafe.