You can drive with the traction control light on if it appears only while losing traction. This means the system is functioning properly. The traction control light always staying on indicates that the traction control system is either turned off or there’s a problem in the system. So, if you’re driving in normal road conditions where your car’s unlikely to lose traction, it’s safe. However, on slippery road surfaces or in high-speed cornering, your car is more likely to lose traction. In that case, it’s not safe to drive with the traction control light always staying on.
So you are driving through the mountains and somehow the traction control light turns on. Surely, you didn’t anticipate that. But should you be worried? Can you drive with the traction control light on?
Keep reading the article to find out when it’s safe to drive with the traction control light on and what are the risks associated in detail.
Is It Safe to Drive With Traction Control Light On?
Yes, you can drive with the traction control light on if it turns on only when losing traction. But if the light just stays on regardless of the road condition, you need to stop your car and get the traction system fixed.
Follow the table below for clear instructions.
| Condition | Is It Normal? | Is It Safe to Drive? | Why Isn’t It Safe To Drive? |
| “TCS Light Flashing/Blinking” on Slippery or Snowy Road | Yes | Yes | – |
| “TCS Light is On” on Slippery or Snowy Road | No | No | Your traction control system is not working and you’re at risk of an accident |
| “TCS Light is On” on Normal Road | No | Yes, but as long as you don’t lose traction | Your traction control system is not working and you are at a risk on any muddy or snowy road |
You can drive with the traction control light on if it appears only while losing traction. This means the system is functioning properly.
The traction control light always staying on indicates that the traction control system is either turned off or there’s a problem in the system. So, if you’re driving in normal road conditions where your car’s unlikely to lose traction, it’s safe.
However, on slippery road surfaces or in high-speed cornering, your car is more likely to lose traction. In that case, it’s not safe to drive with the traction control light always staying on.
Why Is My Traction Control Light Staying On?
Your traction control light is staying on because of a problem in the wheel speed sensor, ABS module or the traction control module itself is damaged.
The table below shows some of the reasons along with how to solve them.
| Reasons | Solutions |
| Damaged Traction On Button | Replace button |
| Malfunctioning Wheel Speed Sensor | Replace Wheel Speed Sensor |
| Malfunctioning ABS | Replace ABS Module |
| Improper Wheel Alignment | Fix Wheel Alignment |
| Damaged TCS Module | Replace Traction Control Module |
| Faulty Wiring | Replace Wiring |
As observed from the table, you can easily fix the traction control system either by DIY or going to a servicing station.
How To Avoid Traction Control Light Staying On?
To avoid traction control light staying on following these steps
- Check if your wheel alignment is synchronized properly or not
- Always diagnose your car whenever there is any Check Engine Light warning
- Get your wheel speed sensor checked and cleaned occasionally
- Check your brake’s performance level. You can diagnose your brakes yourself or go to any servicing center.
- Check the electrical connection system in your car. Look the condition of the traction control switch
- Drive your car properly.
When Should I Turn Off the Traction Control?
There are cases where the benefits of turning traction control off outweigh its disadvantages. What are those situations?
- Stuck In Muddy or Snowy Terrain
- Using Tire Chains
- Driving In Steep Hill
- Recreational Purposes
So, is it bad to drive with the traction control light on? If it’s flickering on a slippery surface then, no, you are safe to drive. But if it is staying on continuously, then yes, you are at a risk and you should fix it as soon as possible.
FAQs
What To Do If The ABS Light Turns On With Traction Control Light?
You should stop your car and go to the servicing center immediately. It means that your braking system is facing a problem. If possible, tow your car to the center rather than driving it yourself.
Can Low Brake Fluid Trigger Traction Control Problem?
No, but it will turn on the ABS light. If your car has the same module for ABS and TCS then any problem in the ABS will also cause problems in the traction system. Immediately get it checked and fixed for any case of low brake fluid.
Can Traction Control Slow Down Engine Performance?
No, it does not slow down engine performance. When your wheels are losing traction, the traction control system increases the grip either by applying brake or reducing engine power. It reduces its power output, not the performance. Reducing power by reducing the fuel flow is something else and reducing performance is something else.
Conclusion
So can you drive with the traction control light on? Yes, if your roads are bumpy and slippery. No, you should not, if your roads are in good condition. With that settled, hopefully next time when you see your traction light coming on, you will know what to do.
