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Traction Control Light On? Flashing vs. Solid Explained

See a little car with squiggly skid marks flashing on your dash? That’s the traction/stability system kicking in — your car’s electronic babysitter stopping wheelspin. If it stays on solid, that’s a fault.

Why It Happens

Traction and stability systems use sensors at the wheels and steering to keep the car pointed straight. If one wheel slips, the system cuts power or applies brakes. Flashing light = it’s working. Solid light = something’s broken.

Could be a sensor, wiring, or even a steering angle calibration issue. When it’s down, you’re driving old-school: no safety net in slippery conditions.

Most Common Causes

  • Wheel speed sensor fault – dirt, corrosion, or wiring failure.
  • ABS system issue – traction and stability piggyback on ABS.
  • Steering angle sensor fault – computer can’t tell which way you’re steering.
  • Yaw/accel sensor fault – stability module confused.
  • System turned off manually – some cars let you disable it with a button.

What You Can Check

  • If it’s flashing, ease off the throttle — the system’s doing its job.
  • If it’s solid, restart the car — sometimes it clears a temporary fault.
  • Inspect tires — mismatched sizes or bald tread can confuse sensors.
  • Check if you accidentally pressed the traction control “off” button.

What a Mechanic Will Check

  • Scan ABS/traction system for fault codes.
  • Inspect and test wheel speed sensors.
  • Check wiring at hubs — prone to damage and corrosion.
  • Verify steering angle sensor calibration.
  • Road test on low-grip surface.

Ballpark Repair Costs

  • Wheel speed sensor: $150–$300 each.
  • ABS module repair: $600–$1,000+.
  • Steering angle sensor: $200–$400.
  • Diagnostic scan/reset: $80–$150.

When to Call It Quits

If the light stays on solid, the car will still drive, but you’ve lost traction and stability backup. In good weather, you might not notice. In rain or snow? You’ll wish it worked. Get it fixed before the slippery stuff hits.