The Toyota Tundra’s traction control light flashes on whenever your truck’s stability control system is doing its job. But if it stays on, even when you’re driving in perfectly normal conditions, it means the system has become disabled.
Today’s vehicles have a lot of different warning lights, but not all of them signal the need to head to a car repair
shop. However, if your ABS and traction control lights are both illuminated, you may need to get your Tundra looked at by a professional. If you’re wondering why your Toyota Tundra’s traction control and ABS lights are on, this guide will help you understand some of the most common causes.
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Why your Toyota traction control light turns on
No matter what you drive, you may find that your vehicle’s traction control (TCS) light
is one of the most confusing warning lights on your dash. In most cases, a warning light flashes on to signal that you have a problem with your car. However, in the case of the TCS light, it usually indicates that your car’s systems are working just as intended. Toyota’s TCS system is called TRAC, and it’s standard equipment on all Toyota vehicles, including your Tundra. Your Toyota Tundra’s TRAC system uses sensors that monitor each of your wheels’ speeds. These sensors can also detect when one or more of your truck’s wheels loses traction.
If this happens, the sensors signal your truck’s TRAC system to get to work by either pulsing the brakes or slowing the engine in order to maintain contact between your tires and the road. When this system is engaged, the TRAC light, which looks like a car with wavy lines behind it, will flash on to indicate it’s working properly.
If your Tundra is equipped with 4-wheel drive (4WD), then it may also be equipped with Toyota’s A-TRAC (Active Traction Control) system. Unlike the TRAC system, which functions automatically, the A-TRAC system must be engaged and disengaged by the driver.
While the system is on, it automatically detects wheel spin and distributes torque between the front and rear wheels while braking the spinning wheels to control skidding. Like the TRAC system, when A-TRAC is engaged, you’ll see a light to indicate this on your dash. It will remain illuminated for as long as A-TRAC is engaged.
If any of your Tundra’s TRAC systems malfunction, the TRAC light may come on and stay on. It may also be accompanied by other warning lights, such as the ABS light, or even the Check Engine Light. Let’s take a look at some common causes of a traction control malfunction
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Temporary loss of traction
The most common reason for your TRAC light to come on is a temporary loss of traction. Whether you’re driving in heavy rain, snow, or even on loose gravel, your TRAC light is meant to come on to indicate your Tundra’s TRAC system is functioning properly. As your TRAC system engages and disengages, you will likely see the TRAC light flashing on and off.
While it’s normal for this light to flash on and off while the TRAC system is working, if the light remains on or is accompanied by other warning lights, it’s time to head to the dealership or a mechanic for a traction control light inspection
. Traction control system turned off
Sometimes, the simplest explanation is the most likely. If your Tundra’s TRAC light is on when it shouldn’t be, you may have inadvertently turned it off. While the TRAC system is usually always on, you can disable it by pressing a button, usually located near your turn signal on the dash or in the center stack. So before you panic, press this button again to see if the light doesn’t turn off.
If your TRAC system is on, and the light is illuminated, it’s time to consider some other common causes.
Faulty wheel speed sensors
If your TRAC light comes on and stays on, it’s most likely a sign that you have a failing wheel speed sensor. Your Tundra’s wheels are subject to a lot of wear and tear over time, so it makes sense that these sensors would occasionally fail. Luckily, wheel speed sensor replacement
is a fairly quick and affordable process. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) malfunction
If a wheel sensor inspection doesn’t reveal any issues, you may have an issue with your anti-lock brake system.
Both systems use the same control module to help your Tundra maintain traction. Since your ABS must be working properly for your TRAC system to function, low brake fluid or other ABS issues will likely cause both the TRAC light and the ABS light to come on. Broken TCS/ABS control module
If the TCS or ABS control module is malfunctioning or broken altogether, it will cause both the TRAC and ABS lights to illuminate. You may also notice the Check Engine Light is on.
Can you drive with the traction control light on?
Yes—but be very careful, especially in bad conditions.
Keep in mind, too, that your TRAC light may illuminate when you have issues with your ABS, so ensure you’re leaving plenty of room for braking, and head to a mechanic or dealer for a diagnosis as soon as you get the chance.
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