Traction Control Off
Chevrolet Vehicle
Severity: MinorWhat Does This Error Mean?
Traction Control Off means the traction control system has been disabled — either manually by the driver or automatically due to a fault. Check if you accidentally pressed the traction control button. If you did not, a sensor fault may have disabled it.
Affected Models
- Chevrolet Silverado
- Chevrolet Equinox
- Chevrolet Malibu
- Chevrolet Traverse
- Chevrolet Tahoe
- Most Chevrolet/GM vehicles
Common Causes
- Driver pressed the Traction Control button (usually on the center console)
- StabiliTrak fault automatically disabling traction control
- Wheel speed sensor fault
- ABS system fault
- Low brake fluid
How to Fix It
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Check if you accidentally pressed the TC button.
Look for a button with a car-with-squiggly-lines icon on the dashboard or console. Press it to re-enable traction control.
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Turn the car off and restart.
If traction control was disabled by a temporary fault, restarting re-enables it.
-
Check for a Service StabiliTrak message.
If both warnings appear, the StabiliTrak fault is disabling traction control. Fix the StabiliTrak issue and traction control will re-enable.
-
Check brake fluid level.
Low brake fluid can trigger ABS and traction control warnings. Top up with DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid to the MAX line.
Frequently Asked Questions
When would I want traction control off?
When stuck in deep snow or mud — traction control can prevent wheels from spinning enough to gain grip. Also on a racetrack. For normal driving, keep it ON.
Does traction control affect gas mileage?
No. Traction control only activates when wheels slip. In normal driving, it has zero effect on fuel economy.