Hello people, today I’m going to share a detailed piece on how to reset StabiliTrak light without running into major difficulties. Also called traction controls, StabiliTrak is a very effective safety mechanism keeping you in a healthy shape and preventing them from losing grip when maneuvering with sharp turns.
How To Turn Off StabiliTrak Light?
As the name suggests, the traction control system or the Stabilitrak is in-built in cars and helps build from losing traction. They prevent the car from spinning, slipping, or sliding while driving. The Stabilitrak comes in handy when the driver makes a sharp maneuver or accelerates the vehicle suddenly, notwithstanding the road conditions. However, you can get stuck in a pothole, ditch, mud, or snow. Thus it is necessary to learn how to fix the Stabilitrak light.
If you are stuck in those frustrating situations, you must reset the StabiliTrak, or the engine will slowly reduce power. To get out of that situation, you’ll need extra power, which only can be attained by turning off the StabiliTrak.
Disabling Stabilitrak, although very simple, the technique varies from vehicle to vehicle and model to model. In this piece, I will mention the method for all mainstream vehicles.
What is StabiliTrak | How It Works
StabiliTrak is an innovative vehicle stability management solution masterfully devised and patented by General Motors. Its primary function is to regulate a vehicle’s wheels, thereby averting potential skidding or slippage by altering its path, particularly during hazardous maneuvers.
For example, StabiliTrak is engineered to perceive the vehicle’s shifting trajectory as one descends a steep incline. In response, it modulates the engine’s power output to the wheels, reducing their speed and ensuring safer navigation.
This system comes in two primary variants: the StabiliTrak Chevy and the StabiliTrak GM, providing consumers with flexibility in choosing the best fit for their respective vehicles.
StabiliTrak Chevy
Chevy provides the Dynamic StabiliTrak technology, which springs into action when the sensor identifies a discrepancy between wheel alignment and steering response.
This system is ingeniously crafted to counteract oversteer and understeer scenarios, thereby substantially enhancing the driving experience, especially for those unaccustomed to navigating slick or slippery terrains such as icy or snowy roads.
Chevy’s StabiliTrak system can also discern when the driver requires braking assistance, strategically managing power distribution to facilitate a smoother, safer journey.
StabiliTrak GM
The StabiliTrak system by General Motors does more than engage the brakes to curtail wheel slippage and redirect the vehicle’s course. Indeed, the GM StabiliTrak system has additional capabilities; it can discern when a driver has lost vehicular control by assessing engine rpm and steering angle.
You might be curious about the term “service StabiliTrak system.” Simply put, this refers to issues or errors within the StabiliTrak system. Every standard safety-rated automobile we purchase has a Traction Control System (TCS).
The “service StabiliTrak” alert may appear unexpectedly due to a faulty sensor or a malfunctioning controller.
Now, let’s delve into the most intriguing segment of this discussion.
How to Turn Off StabiliTrak in Different Vehicles?
Turning off or resetting a vehicle’s traction control is simple but unknown. However, turning the Stabilitrak light might also turn off some other safety features, which you must turn back on when needed. Resetting Stabilitrak differs for all OEMs.
Here are the simplest methods to turn Stabilitrak off for all major manufacturers.
Ford
This process will work on all Ford cars. You will first have to look for the location of the StabiliTrak sensor.
1. To reset the Stabilitrak, press the traction control button on the steering wheel’s left side and release it immediately.
2. Hold the control button for a few seconds, and the traction control will turn off.
Sometimes finding the Stabilitrak sensor can be a real pain in the head. To find the placement of traction control:
1. Go to the car menu and look for the wheel controls under the instrument panel.
2. Check on the left side of your string wheel for a black arrow which you will press.
3. Scroll down once more. Now your job is to manage the settings.
4. At settings, select accept, and you will see a few more options.
5. Select the DRIVE ASSIST option and then press the OK button.
6. Now, you will see the DRIVER CONTROL option. Congo, you have completed the process. Now check the steering wheel and press OK; you are ready.
Chevrolet and GMC
Press the center button, just beside the button on the main board.
1. Now press the button and hold it for a few seconds to activate the StabiliTrak.
2. It will show a DIC message.
3. Now, wait for some time the Stabilitrak will reset automatically
Toyota
Toyota has a more straightforward process, as it comes with a VSC button.
1. Press and hold the VHC button for a few seconds.
2. That’s it. Pressing the button will disable the VHC and the action control (which might be called TRAC in your case).
Volkswagen
To turn the Stabilitrak off, you must follow a tricky process for Volkswagen cars.
1. First, you have to change the vehicle to accessory mode. Ensure the ignition is in position, but do not start the engine for now.
2. Afterward, go through the lights until you reach the warning lights. It will look triangular. Press the button, and you’re ready for the next stage
3. Press the accelerator pedals. One pedal at a time. Repeat the process four times until you have done the pedaling a total of five times.
4. As you press the accelerator pedals several times, the car will move a few feet forward by momentum. You will then notice the traction control turning on automatically.
Fiat, or RAM, Dodge Jeep Y Chrysler
Like Toyota, these three brands provide a seamless way to turn Stabilitrak off.
1. Press the ESC button and hold it for 8 seconds.
2. You’ll hear a buzzer which means the Stabilitrak is reset. You will notice the instrument-off message in the instrument group.
How To Reset Service StabiliTrak Light?
StabiliTrak light usually turns on due to software or hardware failure. The easy solution is pressing the steering wheel’s traction control button. Or you can also follow the above mentioned process according to which car you own.
Before resetting the service StabiliTrak light, you perform some necessary checkups. Because the warning lights are the only way, your system is trying to communicate about the error in the car.
Here are the simple steps you need to follow:
First, you have to manually press the StabiliTrak; another side, the system will be immobilized due to the current weather conditions. Read further on how to reset the StabiliTrak light.
Turn your car’s handwheel clockwise to shut it off. If it does, when your job is done, you no more need further service however, if it doesn’t follow the below steps.
- Turn off your car.
- Wait for 15 minutes
- Turn the car back on.
If you no more see the DIC message. The repair for your car is done. Contact the local dealer or the nearest repair shop if the message persists.
The Reasons Behind Stabilitrak Warning Light to Come on?
There can be several factors affecting the StabiliTrak warning lights. When you see the lights, your car may be working just fine. Probably, it has shut down entirely or received the wrong signal.
Below are the most common factors behind the Stabilitrak warning light turning on:
Faulty Connection
When the GM-LAN communication line is compromised, it may hurt the Service StabiliTrak connection. General Motors utilizes top-graded GM-LAN communication cables, waiting for harnesses covered by a plastic layer extending to the transmission mechanism.
The heat shield is placed on the gearbox to protect the wiring and essential gearbox components. However, there is a risk of the plastic jacket getting exposed to heat, making it detached, brittle, and easy to break.
Correspondingly, GM-LAN connection channels become vulnerable. A part of the GM-LAN cable can come in contact with the best shield and partially melt the plastic cable jacket.
Without the plastic covering, GM – the LAN line is at high risk of grounding, eventually disrupting communications between the body control computer system, including the StabiliTrak system.
Input Sensor
A faulty input sensor is another major cause of the StabiliTrak warning light or alert appearing on the dashboard. The problem might not always be related to traction control; it could be turn rate, steering angle, or wheel speed sensor. First, you should spot the affected sensor and then replace it to solve the problem.
Defective Controller
Another possibility of a problem is the powertrain control module (PCM). Yes, it can also make the StabiliTrak sensor turn on. The electronic sensor on every wheel must communicate with the PCM regarding stability and steering to activate the StabiliTrak system. These cases are most common in extreme weather conditions.
How to Fix StabiliTrak?
If your dashboard shows a service StabiliTrak error message, it means you have a problem that needs to be fixed. But there is one piece of good news, it’s pretty easy to reset the service StabiliTrak light by following the steps o cycle primary engine ignition.
- Stop and turn off your car.
- Wait for about 30 seconds.
- Start the car and put it in standby mode.
- That should do it. If it doesn’t work, get help from a local repair shop.
StabiliTrak Disabling Itself
Often, an engine misfire can lead to the self-deactivation of the StabiliTrak or traction control system. If a flashing engine light catches your eye, it typically signifies that your engine has misfired.
Initially, this issue might not seem monumental, but if ignored for an extended period, it could potentially trigger the StabiliTrak service lights.
Sounds catastrophic, doesn’t it? But fret not, I’ll guide you through the solution. A question might be brewing in your mind: Why would an engine misfire affect the StabiliTrak? The answer is that both systems rely on consistent engine speed. Consequently, a misfiring engine can deactivate both systems. Addressing the misfire will naturally reset these mechanisms.
A variety of factors can induce a misfire. However, based on my experience, the most common culprit is a loose spark plug wire. I recommend inspecting under the hood, a cost-free and straightforward action.
If this solution doesn’t rectify the issue, you may require a code reader to obtain a computer-generated code to help troubleshoot the problem effectively.
How to Turn Off the Service StabiliTrak Light?
The reason for the service StabiliTrak light being consistently on is the loss of traction. But the light can also turn on without the existence of any problem related to traction. Whatever the reason, turning off or resetting the service StabiliTrak light will become super easy by following the steps below.
Keep On Driving for a Few Minutes
The stability light may illuminate in specific scenarios, such as during a battery change. This occurrence does not indicate an issue but rather a safety feature embedded within the vehicle performing a self-assessment.
Driving for a short duration or distance should rapidly rectify and resolve this phenomenon. In the process, endeavor to execute a few right turns, which prompts the system to turn off the StabiliTrak light autonomously.
Don’t Drive Too Fast
When driving too fast, the StabiliTrak light may turn and flash a warning that you’re speeding. At high speeds, traction control will go into overdrive to control your car. As you slow down the rate, the light will automatically turn off. StabiliTrak is a great addition to your car as it can save your precious life, but it can’t do that if you love it too fast.
Use Tyres With The Same Type and Size
Some wheels may spin faster when you use tires of different sizes, setting off the speed sensor and further turning on the Service StabiliTrak light. Use tires of the exact dimensions and types to ensure the traction lights never turn on.
Can I Drive With Stabilitrak Light On?
It is only safe to drive with the Traction Control System (TCS)/StabiliTrak Light if the light appears when you lose traction.
Shutting off the Traction Control System (TCS)/StabiliTrak Light can make your car skid and spin, which can be detrimental on the road.
What is the Cost to Fix StabiliTrak?
If you want to replace the StabiliTrak, it will cost you around $90 to $180. That figure also includes the labor cost of around $40 to $50, depending on the company and the third-party repair shop you’re visiting.
Vehicles facing problems related to service StabiliTrak warnings may need sensor replacement which can be hard on our wallet -$250-$400.
FAQs
Below are the frequently asked questions on what does service StabiliTrak mean. Let’s look into some other related queries.
Does StabiliTrak affect transmission?
Once the “Service StabiliTrak” light appears, the traction control will turn off, and the transmission will become hard and rough. Interestingly, the warning light only seems in extreme weather conditions.
Can StabiliTrak cause the car not to start?
StabiliTrak will start the engine, but even after that, the wheel doesn’t start spinning, which means your StabiliTrak has failed.
Does StabiliTrak affect braking?
StabiliTrak utilizes sensors to determine braking pressure, rate of the run, wheel speed, and steering angle. Each sensor is equally important, and any particular system can face a malfunction.
Does traction control make your car shake?
Incorrect signals received by the traction control system might make your car shake as it tries to fix the issue based on the wrong signals.
Where is the StabiliTrak sensor located?
StabiliTrak sensor is generally located near the steering wheel on the instrument plane.
Final Thoughts
So that was it on how to reset service StabiliTrak light and solve other related problems. StabiliTrak light or message is your car’s way of telling you that it needs attention.
Disabling the traction control Stabilirak can slow be beneficial for specific road conditions. Disabling the traction control will improve your chances of getting through tricky and rough areas without significantly damaging your car, Ex, Brakes and steering parts.
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