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what is the light with the car and squiggly lines

2 Answers
NaomiFitz
12/25/25 6:12am

The light with a car and squiggly lines is your vehicle's Traction Control System (TCS) indicator. It illuminates for two main reasons: either the system is actively working to prevent wheel spin, or there is a fault in the system itself. When you see it flash briefly while driving on a slippery surface, it's normal and indicates the TCS is doing its job. If the light stays on steadily, it signals a problem that needs diagnosis.

This system is a key part of your car's active safety features. It uses sensors at the wheels to detect when one is spinning faster than the others (indicating a loss of traction). When this happens, the TCS automatically applies brakes to the spinning wheel and/or reduces engine power to help the tire grip the road again. You'll commonly notice it engaging during acceleration on wet roads, ice, or loose gravel.

A steady, non-blinking light means the system has detected a malfunction and has likely deactivated itself for your safety. This could be due to a faulty wheel speed sensor, a problem with the ABS module (which the TCS shares components with), or a software issue. Driving with a faulty TCS is not immediately dangerous, but you will have one less electronic aid to help you maintain control in slippery conditions. It's best to have the vehicle scanned for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) at a repair shop as soon as possible.

It's important to distinguish this light from the similar-looking "car with skidding lines" icon, which typically represents the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system. While related, ESC is a more advanced system that helps correct skids and loss of steering control, not just wheel spin during acceleration.

ScenarioLight BehaviorWhat It MeansRecommended Action
Accelerating on a slippery roadFlashes brieflyTCS is actively working to regain traction.Normal operation. Ease off the accelerator.
Starting the carIlluminates steadily for a few secondsSystem self-check.Normal operation. Light should turn off.
During normal drivingStays on steadilyTCS fault detected; system is disabled.Schedule a service appointment to diagnose the issue.
Light is on with other warnings (e.g., ABS)Stays on steadilyLikely a shared component failure (e.g., wheel sensor).Important to get diagnosed promptly as multiple safety systems may be affected.
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StJuliet
01/02/26 12:24am

Basically, that light means your car's traction control is either working or broken. If it's flickering while you're driving in the rain or on dirt, don't sweat it—the computer is just stopping your tires from spinning. But if the light is on and won't turn off after you start driving, something's wrong with the system. You can still drive, but be extra careful on slippery roads because that safety net is gone. Get it checked out when you can.

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