While lights can be aesthetically pleasing at times, dashboard warning lights are pretty much nothing but sources of anxiety.
One of the dashboard lights you might see come on is the traction control light.
What does it mean when it comes on and what can you do about it? We’ll take a closer look at the traction control light and help answer all your questions.
What is the symbol for the traction control light?
The traction control light is typically represented by a car driving on a road with squiggly lines.
It’s often yellow or orange in color, so it’s pretty easy to spot when it comes on. In some cars, it might be another symbol with the letters “TC”.
What does the traction control light mean?
The traction control light typically comes on when there’s an issue with the traction control system.
The traction control system is designed to maintain grip between your car tires and the road, allowing for better stability and safety while driving.
You might notice that the traction control light comes on very briefly when you start your car but turns right off.
Don’t worry, this is totally normal and is actually an indication that the system is working correctly.
Sometimes you will see the light turn on very briefly while you are driving, this may be because your tires were on a very slippery road and temporarily lost traction.
If the light comes on and stays on, there could be an issue with a traction control system sensor, wiring, or computer.
This is a more serious issue and will require some work to fix. However, it also just might mean that the system has been deactivated.
What Should You Do When It Comes On?
If your traction control light comes on but turns off pretty quickly, you likely don’t need to worry. Just be aware that you are likely on a slippery road, and take caution while driving.
If the traction control light comes on and stays on, first check that you didn’t accidentally turn off your car’s traction control system.
This can be easier to do than you might think as it is often just a button near your steering wheel.
Press the button to see if the traction control system activates and the light goes off.
If the light stays on, you should bring your car to an auto repair shop as soon as possible.
Don’t ignore the light or try to reset it yourself if it is staying on, as this could cause further damage to the system. A trained technician will be able to properly diagnose and repair the issue.