Why is the Vehicle Skid Light On?
3 Answers
Reasons for the vehicle skid light being on: 1. Accidentally pressing the ESP off button; 2. Loose or faulty sensor connectors; 3. Short circuit in wiring or related fuse blown; 4. Software issues causing poor signal transmission; 5. ABS pump failure. If the vehicle skid light occasionally turns on and then off, it indicates the electronic stability control system is activated during driving, which is normal. If the light stays on continuously, it means there is a fault in the electronic stability control system. First, turn off the stability control switch and then turn it back on. Next, turn off the engine and the vehicle's power supply, wait for about a minute, and then restart the engine to check if the light remains on. If it still stays on, it is necessary to visit a 4S shop for a computer diagnostic check of the fault code.
I've driven for over a decade and encountered the skid control light coming on several times. The most common situation is when the tail slides slightly during cornering on rainy days, and the yellow triangle light flashes—this indicates the ESP electronic stability system is helping correct the skid. But if this light stays on continuously, the problem becomes more complicated. Last time when helping my cousin repair his car, we found the tread depth difference among the four tires was too significant, causing the wheel speed sensors to misjudge tire slippage. Another time at the repair shop, I saw a collision-damaged vehicle whose steering angle sensor was knocked askew, resulting in constant illumination. This light is connected to ABS and traction control systems—if it stays on for too long, other electronic functions may also fail. I recommend first checking if tire pressures are balanced, then visiting a repair shop to read the trouble codes. Oh, and by the way, water splashed on chassis sensors after car washes may also trigger false alarms—just let it dry for half an hour.
From a mechanic's perspective: Just fixed a Corolla with the skid control light on yesterday. First instinct was to hook up the diagnostic tool, and sure enough, it showed code C1201 – left front wheel speed sensor malfunction. Lifted the wheel to find the sensor completely caked in mud. After cleaning it, the fault code cleared. Reminding fellow car owners to keep sensor areas clean, especially after rain or snow. The second most common issue is steering angle reset: After battery disconnection or steering column removal/installation, the steering angle needs recalibration, otherwise the light stays on. Mechanically, watch out for sticking brake calipers causing abnormal wheel speed differences – this can trick the ECU into false skid detection. Finally, a pro tip: Aftermarket tire size modifications most easily trigger this fault. Had a customer with 19-inch wheels who never got the ECU reprogrammed – light stayed on for a whole year.