Nothing can drop a driver’s heart so quickly as noticing a warning light come on the dashboard. But when the Check Engine Light and Traction Light Came on, it can be particularly sobering. What do each of these lights signify on its own? Why would they appear in concert? And most critically, what do you do next?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through everything you should know when your Check Engine and Traction Control lights illuminate — including typical causes, possible hazards, and what to do.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Check Engine Light
The Check Engine light found in automobiles serves as a Malfunction Indicator Lamp known through OBD-II in your vehicle onboard diagnosis system. The car computer system activates the light when it detects issues linked to emissions and engine performance alongside major component concerns.
Some of the most common reasons for a Check Engine light include:
- Faulty Oxygen Sensor: Reduces fuel efficiency and increases emissions.
- Damaged Catalytic Converter: A critical component for controlling emissions.
- Failing Spark Plugs or Ignition Coils: Can cause engine misfires, reduced performance, and damage to other components.
- Loose or Faulty Gas Cap: One of the simplest and most overlooked causes.
- Mass Airflow Sensor Malfunction: Impacts the air-fuel mixture and engine efficiency.
The status of the Check Engine light depends on whether the issue needs immediate attention as indicated by constant or blinking illumination. When the check engine light flashes promptly the system displays a severe matter that requires immediate assessment.
What the Traction Control Light Means
TCS operates to aid drivers with tire steering control when they encounter slippery or unstable road conditions. Sensors that measure wheel speed and vehicle stability determine wheel skidding through the use of feedback that triggers engine power reduction along with brake application for skid prevention.
When the Traction Control light comes on:
- It may indicate that the system is actively working (normal behavior on ice, snow, or rain).
- It could signal a malfunction within the TCS.
- It might be caused by a faulty wheel speed sensor or problems in the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).
- In some vehicles, traction control automatically disables itself if a major engine or transmission problem is detected.
Why Would the Check Engine Light and Traction Light Came on – Solution 2025 Together?
When both lights illuminate simultaneously, it usually suggests a deeper issue affecting multiple vehicle systems. Some potential causes include:
1. Sensor Malfunction
Modern vehicles rely heavily on interconnected sensors. A failure in critical sensors like:
- Wheel Speed Sensors
- Throttle Position Sensors
- Crankshaft or Camshaft Sensors can trigger warnings in multiple systems, including both the engine and traction control.
2. Engine Performance Problems
If your engine is not running smoothly due to misfires, fuel system issues, or airflow problems, the traction control system might disable itself automatically. An unstable engine can make it harder for the traction control to do its job properly.
3. ECU (Electronic Control Unit) Issues
The car’s ECU manages both engine performance and stability control systems. A problem with the ECU itself, like a software glitch or communication error, can lead to multiple lights illuminating at once.
4. Electrical System Failures
Sometimes issues in the battery, alternator, or wiring harnesses can cause random warning lights. Low voltage or voltage spikes can confuse the system and cause false error readings.
Is It Safe to Drive When Both Lights Are On?
The answer depends on several factors:
- Minor Symptoms: If the car drives normally and no strange noises or performance issues are noticed, you might be okay to drive carefully to a mechanic.
- Serious Symptoms: If you experience rough idling, hesitation, misfires, loss of power, unusual sounds, or braking issues, it’s safer to pull over and arrange a tow.
- Road Conditions: If you’re driving in bad weather (snow, rain, ice) and traction control is compromised, the risk of losing control increases significantly.
Important:
Never ignore a flashing Check Engine light. It often indicates a severe engine misfire, which can quickly damage your catalytic converter and lead to very expensive repairs.
Also Read: Why Is Your Car Loosing Oil But No Leak
What You Should Do Next
If you see the Check Engine and Traction Control lights come on, here’s a step-by-step action plan:
1. Stay Calm and Assess
Don’t panic. Check if the car feels and sounds normal. Notice if other lights (like ABS or Stability Control) are also illuminated.
2. Check the Gas Cap
One of the easiest fixes — if the gas cap is loose, it can trigger a Check Engine light. Tighten it until it clicks and see if the light goes off after a few drives.
3. Reduce Driving
Avoid hard acceleration, braking, or long trips until you know what’s wrong. Gentle driving minimizes further damage.
4. Get a Diagnostic Scan
Visit an auto repair shop or use an OBD-II scanner to pull diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). These codes will give you insight into exactly which systems are malfunctioning.
5. Follow Repair Recommendations
Based on the trouble codes and the mechanic’s advice, repair the faulty parts or systems immediately. Ignoring early warnings can lead to larger (and much more expensive) problems down the road.
Common Questions About Dashboard Warning Lights
Can low tire pressure cause the traction control light to come on?
Yes, especially if your car’s system detects that one tire is spinning faster than others due to deflation.
Will resetting the battery clear the warning lights?
Sometimes disconnecting the battery will reset the warning lights temporarily, but if the underlying issue isn’t fixed, the lights will usually come back on.
Is it expensive to fix a traction control problem?
It depends. Simple sensor replacements might cost $100–$300, but serious ABS or stability control system repairs could run into the thousands.
Final Thoughts
Your vehicle seeks to warn you through the combination of Check Engine and Traction Control lights that there exists a potential system problem which needs immediate attention.
Certain automobile conditions require simple repairs but persistent ones lead to significant repair expenses when ignored. Safety must always be your first priority when driving by you need to approach the hazards carefully and obtain professional reviews before performing necessary repairs promptly. Taking immediate action will safeguard both the operational efficiency and your mental comfort while driving.
