Q: Service Traction ESC light came on, What is this?

asked by on August 18, 2016

I don't know what this message coming on means. I have had know problems with the car.

My car has 90000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

The ESC light indicates that there is a problem with the Electronic Stability Control. Many times this is caused by a failing wheel speed sensor. Have the vehicle scanned and diagnostic trouble codes read to help indicate if a sensor is at fault or another issue. A certified technician, like one from YourMechanic, will be able to determine the exact cause of the warning light and perform the repairs needed.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Problem with intake manifold
Hi. This trouble code occurs in sync with a ticking noise within the circuit. If the manifold has lose bolts or was not put together correctly after maintenance this can be the result of the code. I would recommend having...
Car not starting but making sound
The zooming sound is a new sound described for me and only an in-person diagnostic check could narrow the problem down for you. If the car is also not starting, this can be for a host of reasons including a...
No acceleration or RPM increase while pressing gas pedal
It sounds like you may have an issue with your throttle position sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-throttle-position-sensor). This sensor sends a reference voltage to your power-train control module, which uses that to determine ignition timing and fuel trims. If the power-train control module...
Car makes scraping sound and rattles
Replacing the transmission fluid (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-replace-transmission-fluid-by-robert-tomashek) and filter (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-long-does-a-transmission-filter-last) is part of the manufacturer's recommended service that should be done at intervals for regular maintenance. The transmission can have issues such as this when it is failing, low fluid level, torque...
AC compressor locked up.
The problem is the compressor is turned by the same belt as the water pump, power steering, and alternator. Dodge uses two different type compressors on these vehicles. One type can free spin when the clutch is not engaged. The...
While I'm driving, my vehicle makes a hissing noise when it shifts, it will go away sometimes.
Hello. If the noise occurs right before the transmission shifts, then it can be caused by a few things. Depending on how it sounds, it can be a loose belt that is slipping when the vehicle is getting ready to...
The four wheel drive system is not engaging the front wheels
From what you are describing it sounds like you have either a failure in the transfer case (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/transfer-case-output-shaft-seal-replacement) or in the front axle actuator. I usually drain the fluid from the transfer case first and check it for metal. If...
Steering becomes slack while making turns in either direction.
Hello. Thank you for writing in. There are several components that may cause the steering to be loose or jerky. The first thing to do is check the power steering fluid color and level. Make sure its clean and topped...
I took my car in for a full service today. They did the service and my car suddenly cannot be driven. What could the issue be?
Hi there. If the code came on for the camshaft position sensor, then the computer has seen that the sensor is not working properly. If the vehicle was working before and now has the code for the camshaft position sensor,...

Related articles

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Emergency / Parking Brake Cable
Common signs include the parking brake not holding the car properly (or not functioning at all) and the Parking Brake Light coming on.
How Long Does a Throttle Body Temp Sensor Last?
The The throttle body is an important part of your vehicle and should be monitored regularly. The throttle body temp sensor is a sensor that is mounted on the throttle body. It monitors the temperature of the throttle body and...
How to Replace a Crankshaft Position Sensor
The crankshaft position sensor, along with the camshaft sensor, helps the vehicle determine top dead center, among other engine management tasks.