Why is the car's anti-skid light on?
3 Answers
The anti-skid system (ESP) light may come on for the following reasons: 1. Accidentally pressing the ESP off button. 2. Loose or faulty sensor connectors. 3. Short circuit in wiring or blown related fuses. 5. Software issues causing poor signal transmission. 6. ABS pump failure. Solutions are as follows: 1. Restart the engine and briefly press the ESP OFF button on the vehicle. 2. Take the car to a 4S shop for inspection, use a specialized fault diagnostic tool to locate the problem, and clear the fault code with a decoder after repair.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, the traction control light coming on usually isn't a big deal—it might just be due to slippery road conditions. I remember once driving in the snow when my tires started slipping a bit, and the light came on as the system automatically stepped in to help control my speed. However, if the light stays on continuously, you should pay attention—it could indicate an issue with the wheel speed sensor, which triggers when it detects abnormal wheel rotation speeds. Alternatively, it might be a problem with components related to the ABS system, such as a short circuit in the wiring or a sensor clogged with dust. In such cases, I recommend first checking tire pressure and tread wear, as uneven pressure can also falsely trigger the light. If the issue persists, it's best to get it checked at a 4S shop as soon as possible to avoid affecting braking performance. Ignoring it long-term isn't advisable, especially on slippery highways where system failure could increase risks. In short, if this happens while driving, stay calm—slowing down is key.
I often help friends with car repairs, and there are quite a few reasons why the anti-skid light comes on. The most common issue is a faulty wheel speed sensor—when this fails, the system starts giving false alarms. It could also be a problem with the ABS pump since the anti-skid system is tied to the ABS; if the pump malfunctions, the light tends to stay on. Additionally, when driving on muddy or snowy roads, the wheels can easily slip, and the system will normally activate the indicator light. However, if the light stays on continuously, it suggests a system misjudgment or fault. During inspection, first use a diagnostic tool to read the trouble codes. If it shows something like C0040, it usually confirms a sensor or wiring issue. If all else fails, just replace the sensor—it’s only about 200 yuan for most standard models. Don’t rush to dismantle it yourself; you might make things worse. Remember to regularly clean dust buildup under the chassis to reduce false alarms. Safety first—if the light stays on, it’s best to let a professional shop handle it.
