Does the ESC light flashes when driving on slippery roads? If you also notice the check engine light active, the tires slipping when accelerating, and a growling noise when braking or accelerating, there's an issue.
When your car tires start slipping, the ESC (Electronic Stability control) kicks in to keep you in control. It uses the anti-lock brakes and power control module to reduce power to the slipping wheel, so your car doesn't lose traction and spin. However, when the ESC works, the light turns on briefly. But, as soon as you restore traction, the light should turn off.
Is your car's speedometer acting odd? You might also notice both the ABS and ESC lights steadily on the car's dashboard. In addition, the vehicle might suffer more slips when accelerating on slippery roads.
The wheel speed sensor checks how fast each wheel spins and tells the ESC (Electronic Stability Control) module. If a wheel or group of wheels slips, the ESC uses the brake and power control modules to adjust these wheels' power, preventing them from slipping. If the speed sensor is faulty, the traction control and anti-lock brakes may flash when they shouldn't. Also, if there's an issue with the sensor, both the ABS and traction control shut off, flashing the warning lights.
Are your tires locking up when you brake on slippery roads? You might also notice the ABS, "Check Engine," and ESC lights on the car's dashboard.
The ABS prevents your tires from slipping while braking or accelerating, helping you to control your vehicle in harsh driving conditions. If the ABS isn't working, it'll turn off, and your brakes may lock up on slippery roads.
Do you have tires of different sizes or tread patterns on your vehicle? Notice if your vehicle's braking and acceleration are slippery on wet roads. In addition, you might also notice a "check engine" light on the car's dashboard.
Tires with similar rolling distances are essential for vehicles with electronic stability control; each tire's length when spinning should be equal. Unfortunately, different tread designs and tire brands have different rolling distances, even if they're the same size. Also, worn tires have various measures than new ones. Using mismatched tires confuses the wheel speed sensors, triggering traction control or anti-lock brakes even while driving straight. This may also disable the ABS or ESC systems.
