Why Is My Traction Control Light On in Marble Falls?
- Tyler Ellis
- Oct 15
- 3 min read
When the traction control (TCS) or stability light pops on, your vehicle is telling you something important about grip and safety. If you’re asking, “Why Is My Traction Control Light On in Marble Falls?”, you’re not alone. This warning can point to anything from a simple wheel-speed sensor issue to a deeper ABS/steering/suspension fault. At Marble Falls Auto Center, we diagnose these systems daily so you can drive confidently—rain or shine.
What Does the Traction Control Light Mean?
Your traction control system watches wheel speed and steering input to help prevent wheelspin or a skid. When it detects a fault, it stores a code and illuminates the light; in many cars, stability control (ESC) is affected as well. You’ll still have normal brakes and steering, but the assist features that keep the vehicle stable on slick roads may be limited or disabled until the fault is fixed.
Common Reasons the Traction Control Light Turns On
Wheel Speed Sensor ProblemsSensors at each hub read the speed of every wheel. Rust on tone rings, damaged wiring, or a cracked sensor can cause bad data—and flip the light on.
Dirty or Damaged Tone Rings/Reluctor WheelsA missing tooth, corrosion, or debris on the ring will confuse the module, especially at low speeds or during turns.
ABS Module or Hydraulic Unit FaultsBecause TCS/ESC relies on ABS hardware, a weak pump motor, sticky valves, or internal electrical faults can set traction control warnings.
Steering Angle Sensor MiscalibrationIf the steering angle sensor doesn’t agree with wheel speeds (after alignments, battery disconnects, or curb hits), the light can appear.
Yaw/Accelerometer Sensor IssuesESC uses yaw and lateral acceleration sensors to measure the vehicle’s motion. Failures or loose mounting can trigger warnings.
Mismatched Tire Sizes/PressuresA low tire or mixed tire sizes cause different wheel speeds that the system reads as slip. Sometimes the fix is as simple as correcting pressures.
Battery/Charging ProblemsLow voltage creates false flags across safety modules. If your battery or alternator is weak, you might see a traction control light alongside other warnings.
If you’ve been wondering, “Why Is My Traction Control Light On in Marble Falls?”, it’s usually one—or a combination—of these issues.
How We Diagnose It (The Right Way, the First Time)
At Marble Falls Auto Center, we use OE-level scan tools and proven tests instead of guessing:
Full system scan of ABS/TCS/ESC to pull codes and freeze-frame data.
Live data road test to watch wheel speeds, steering angle, and yaw rates in real time.
Hub inspection for sensor wiring damage, loose connectors, and tone-ring corrosion or cracks.
Steering angle sensor calibration after alignments, suspension work, or impact.
Hydraulic/ABS pump checks and module communication tests.
Battery/charging evaluation to eliminate voltage-related faults.
Once we have a clear picture, we’ll explain the findings and outline options—from a straightforward sensor replacement to more advanced hydraulic or module repairs. If you’re still asking, “Why Is My Traction Control Light On in Marble Falls?”, start with a quick diagnostic at Marble Falls Auto Center.
Is It Safe to Keep Driving?
Often yes, but with reduced safety margins—especially on wet roads, gravel, or during emergency maneuvers. Without full traction/stability assistance, stopping distances can grow and the car may be harder to control. If the light appears with ABS, brake, or power steering warnings—or you notice shuddering or pull—get it checked immediately.

Why You Should Fix It Now
Driving around the fault can mask other issues (like wheel bearing play or alignment problems) and may trigger additional warnings over time. Early repair restores your vehicle’s built-in safety net and prevents uneven tire wear caused by undetected wheel-speed errors.
Pro Tips to Prevent Traction Control Warnings
Keep tire sizes and brands matched and set pressures to the door placard (check “cold”).
After suspension or alignment work, ask for a steering angle calibration.
Wash winter road grime/rust from hubs; debris can contaminate tone rings and sensors.
Maintain a healthy battery and charging system—modules are picky about voltage.
Get Traction Control & Stability Diagnostics in Marble Falls
If you’re searching “Why Is My Traction Control Light On in Marble Falls?”, our ASE-certified technicians will pinpoint the cause and fix it right the first time. Schedule your diagnostic and get your safety systems back on your side.
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