Traction / stability control light
Also called: ESC light, skidding car light
Flashing means the system is working; steady means it's off or has a fault.
What it means
A car with squiggly lines behind it is the traction or stability control light. When it flashes while driving, the system is actively catching a slip, which is normal on wet or icy roads. When it stays on, the system is either switched off or has a fault.
Green, yellow, red: three ways this can look
Match your situation to the closest example.
Keep an eye on it
It flashes on a wet road when you accelerate. That's the system doing its job. Ease off the gas.
Schedule a repair
It stays on steady and you didn't turn it off. Check the button, then book a visit. It's often tied to an ABS or wheel sensor fault.
Stop and get help
It's on with the ABS and brake lights, or the car feels unstable. Drive slowly to a safe stop and get it checked.
Common causes
- Traction control button pressed off
- Wheel speed sensor fault
- Steering angle sensor needs calibration
- Mismatched tire sizes
What to do right now
- Check whether the traction control button was pressed
- Restart the vehicle
- If it stays on, have the codes read
Symbols and meanings vary a little by make and model. Your owner's manual has the exact meaning for your vehicle.
Other warning lights
Questions
What does the traction / stability control light mean?
Flashing means the system is working; steady means it's off or has a fault. A car with squiggly lines behind it is the traction or stability control light. When it flashes while driving, the system is actively catching a slip, which is normal on wet or icy roads. When it stays on, the system is either switched off or has a fault.
Can I keep driving with the traction / stability control light on?
Green: It flashes on a wet road when you accelerate. That's the system doing its job. Ease off the gas. Yellow: It stays on steady and you didn't turn it off. Check the button, then book a visit. It's often tied to an ABS or wheel sensor fault. Red: It's on with the ABS and brake lights, or the car feels unstable. Drive slowly to a safe stop and get it checked.
What causes the traction / stability control light?
Common causes: traction control button pressed off; wheel speed sensor fault; steering angle sensor needs calibration; mismatched tire sizes.
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