It’s never fun when you experience a flashing traction control light. A flashing traction-control light is usually a sign that your vehicle is properly functioning by maintaining traction on a slippery road, but it can also mean that your car has some damaged sensors or wires. The light will go off when the conditions are safe and back to normal. However, if the light remains on, this could be a sign of a bigger problem. Keep yourself safe on the road by taking your vehicle to a trusted auto repair shop at the first sign of trouble.
What Is A Traction Control System (TCS)?
The traction control system is a safety feature that prevents your wheels from losing traction, which is the grip you have on the surface they’re driving on. Most of the time, on a wet or icy road. The traction control system is there to help.
How The Traction Control System Works
The TCS is composed of a combination of sensors, computers, and mechanical components that work together. The TCS relies on a network of sensors placed around the vehicle to monitor the speed of each wheel’s movement.
Key Components of The TCS:
- Wheel Speed Sensors
- Yaw Rate sensors
- Throttle Position Sensors
Common Causes For an Illuminated Traction Control Light
Excessive Wheel Slip:
Too much excessive wheel spin may cause your traction control system to malfunction. This most commonly occurs in very rainy or snowy weather.
Faulty Wheel Sensor:
Wheel sensors estimate the rate at which each wheel completes many revolutions. If your vehicle has a bad wheel speed sensor, the other wheel will not receive the correct signal from one that is not functioning properly, and the traction control system will be impaired.
Bad ABS module:
The ABS module is always working whenever your traction control system is functioning. If the ABS has a problem, it will eventually disable traction control.
Low Tire Pressure:
Ensure your vehicle’s tires are at the recommended pressure level. A pressure drop in the tires can lead to diminishing traction over time, and the wheel speed sensor may be triggered to continue.
Reasons Why Your Traction Control Light Is Flashing
A flickering check engine light could mean a severe problem with your vehicle’s traction control system.
Wheel Speed Sensor issues:
The typical cause for the blinking traction control light is a false reading of wheel speed data. These sensors track the rate at which the wheels spin and send the results to the traction control module. The system will continue to function in a tab if the light sensor malfunctions. Install a new sensor right after the present one is identified as defective.
Traction Control Module Problems:
The traction control module might malfunction in some cases, which is why the light blinks. This may be rare, but it involves changing the module to fix a problem. It’s recommended to take your car in for a diagnostic scan for evaluation.
Electrical & Traction Control System Services in Arvada, CO
The traction control system is a vital safety feature that protects your vehicle in different road conditions. If you suspect a problem with your traction control system, bring your vehicle to the experienced techs at Arvada Square Auto! We have the training and tools to get the job done right. Give us a call or schedule an appointment with our friendly team today!