My check engine light and traction control lights are on and the cruise control light is flashing on and off.
I was driving my car on packed snow and ice with the traction control on. Another car going way too fast couldn't stop at the stop sign on a side street and slid right out in front of me. I instinctively hit the brakes and begin to slide. I let off the brakes and turned hard to the right and slid into a driveway. When I looked at my gauges, the check engine light and traction light were both on and the green cruise light was flashing. I pulled over and shut the car off. When I re-started it, there was no change. Once I got to the highway where the pavement was clear, I tried setting the cr
Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :
Hi There,
What you are describing is common for a vehicle with traction control when it has been activated in a situation as you have described. The cruise control is also controlled in some cases by the traction control system and may be flashing as a need to have it reset due to the traction control being activated under those circumstances. The traction control system monitors the steering stability of the vehicle and engages when loss of traction has been detected. This is done by the use of electronic sensors at each of the four wheels that communicate with the Power Train Control Module (PCM) regarding steering performance and stability in adverse weather conditions. The traction control system works by reducing engine speed and determining which wheel to apply brake pressure to in order to prevent the vehicle from sliding. The anti-lock braking system and the traction control system work together to maintain the stability of the vehicle. The computer uses this information received from electronic sensors regarding the rotational speed of each wheel, the horizontal motion of the vehicle, and the vertical motion of the vehicle to determine how to direct the traction control system or the anti-lock braking system to best control the vehicle when needed. In some cases, the traction control system may simply need to be reprogrammed. I would recommend having a professional from YourMechanic come to your location to properly diagnose your traction control system.
What you are describing is common for a vehicle with traction control when it has been activated in a situation as you have described. The cruise control is also controlled in some cases by the traction control system and may be flashing as a need to have it reset due to the traction control being activated under those circumstances. The traction control system monitors the steering stability of the vehicle and engages when loss of traction has been detected. This is done by the use of electronic sensors at each of the four wheels that communicate with the Power Train Control Module (PCM) regarding steering performance and stability in adverse weather conditions. The traction control system works by reducing engine speed and determining which wheel to apply brake pressure to in order to prevent the vehicle from sliding. The anti-lock braking system and the traction control system work together to maintain the stability of the vehicle. The computer uses this information received from electronic sensors regarding the rotational speed of each wheel, the horizontal motion of the vehicle, and the vertical motion of the vehicle to determine how to direct the traction control system or the anti-lock braking system to best control the vehicle when needed. In some cases, the traction control system may simply need to be reprogrammed. I would recommend having a professional from YourMechanic come to your location to properly diagnose your traction control system.
How to Identify and Fix Common car Problems ?
Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced mechanics :
When the check engine light does come on the cruise control light will blink indicating that the cruise control has been disabled and the vehicle`s dynamic stability control light will come on indicating that it also has been disabled.
Check engine light flashing and traction control light coming on at the same time could be alerting you of a misfire or a malfunctioning traction control system. Malfunctioning vehicle speed sensor or wheel speed sensors could also be causing the lights to come on.
If you have noticed your cruise control light flashing on and off it is most likely an issue occurring with your engine or engagement system. The best course of action to fix this problem is to bring your vehicle to a mechanic, as the check engine light is normally coupled with this error.
The cruise control light flashing does not mean anything more and is just an additionnal attempt at getting your attention(and annoying you) on all 2005 and newer Subarus.
A solid check engine light indicates a problem that needs to be addressed but is typically not urgent. A flashing check engine light indicates a severe problem that requires immediate attention to avoid further damage.
A flashing light indicates a more serious problem like an overheating engine or engine misfires, which can cause irreversible damage. If the check engine light is flashing, you should stop, turn off the car, and call for assistance.
If you notice a flashing traction control light on your dashboard, this means that the system is in operation. A flashing light indicates that the system is attempting to increase the traction between the road surface and the car`s tires.
An issue with your traction control or engine control system may be present if your dashboard displays both the Trac Off and Check Engine lights.
If the check engine light in your Subaru Forester starts glaring, that means that the problem needs immediate attention and your Subaru should be brought in quickly. This blinking light usually indicates a severe engine misfire allowing unburned fuel to be dumped into the exhaust system.
Best Answer. Subaru dealer told me when your car`s catalytic converter (emission system) needs attention the CEL will flash and disable the cruise and ABS. After a few deays the CEL will stop and all systems will return, but it will continue coming back on until the catalytic converter is fixed.
Code P0420 indicates that the catalytic converter is not functioning efficiently, therefore increasing the output of harmful pollutants by the vehicle.
While the check engine light can definitely be indicative of serious problems, the most common cause of the flashing is usually an engine misfire. There are many reasons why an engine misfire might be occurring. To run smoothly, an engine must be receiving the correct amount of power from the cylinders in your vehicle.
A check engine light flashing– as opposed to a continuously illuminated check engine light – should never be ignored. A flashing CEL indicates a severe problem, one that requires immediate car repair. In other words, if your check engine light is flashing, pull over and call a tow service.
How long can you drive with the check engine light on? Once you see the check engine light, it is safe to drive with the light on for 50 to 100 miles. This is because if the issue is with the sensors, then this will buy some time for it to reset, turning the check engine light off.
These problems can range from faults within the electrical system, the engine, fluid levels or to problems within the car`s emissions system. The problem can even be as simple as forgetting to tighten your gas cap – in fact, this is the most common reason why check engine lights appear in the first place.
Examine the vacuum lines to ensure that they are intact and not leaking. The photo at the beginning of the article shows the most common failure of cruise control systems, vacuum hoses that are leaking or deteriorated to the point they will not stay attached to the cruise control servo.
The national average cost for a cruise control module replacement in 2023 is $3107.
Only use your cruise control when the roadways are dry and clean, and never during rainy or icy conditions. Also, never use cruise control in city or congested traffic as the decreased control of your vehicle could contribute to an accident.
Hi There, The Stability Track light relates to the vehicles traction control system. When the computer detects an issue with this system, it will often times put the vehicle into a reduced power phase in an effort to prevent further damage and to keep the passengers safe.
If the traction control light won`t turn off, there can be some reasons. One reason could be that the fuse for the traction control system has blown. Or it could be that there is a problem with the traction control sensors causing the light to stay on.
How do I fix my traction control light? Quickly depress the gas pedal three times. Next, fully engage your engine and let it run for a minute. If there is no underlying issue with your traction control system, the TCS and ABS lights should reset and disappear.
Will the check engine light reset itself? The check engine light on your Subaru will usually shut itself off if the issue or code that caused it to turn on is fixed. For example, if the cause of your check engine light coming on was a loose gas cap, if it`s tightened, the light will turn itself off.
A steady check engine light indicates a non-emergency issue, such as a loose gas cap. Flashing check engine lights warn of severe situations requiring immediate attention. Standardized diagnostic codes help identify the trouble.
You can judge how serious an issue is by looking at the warning light. The check engine light can show up in two ways: Solid yellow/amber light: Indicates a less urgent issue. Flashing light or red: Indicates a severe problem that needs immediate attention.
Relevant Questions and Answers :
the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue
My check engine light and traction control lights are on and the cruise control light is flashing on and off.
ANSWER : Hi There,
What you are describing is common for a vehicle with traction control when it has been activated in a situation as you have described. The cruise control is also controlled in some cases by the traction control system and may be flashing as a need to have it reset due to the traction control being activated under those circumstances. The traction control system monitors the steering stability of the vehicle and engages when loss of traction has been detected. This is done by the use of electronic sensors at each of the four wheels that communicate with the Power Train Control Module (PCM) regarding steering performance and stability in adverse weather conditions. The traction control system works by reducing engine speed and determining which wheel to apply brake pressure to in order to prevent the vehicle from sliding. The anti-lock braking system and the traction control system work together to maintain the stability of the vehicle. The computer uses this information received from electronic sensors regarding the rotational speed of each wheel, the horizontal motion of the vehicle, and the vertical motion of the vehicle to determine how to direct the traction control system or the anti-lock braking system to best control the vehicle when needed. In some cases, the traction control system may simply need to be reprogrammed. I would recommend having a professional from YourMechanic come to your location to properly diagnose your traction control system.
What you are describing is common for a vehicle with traction control when it has been activated in a situation as you have described. The cruise control is also controlled in some cases by the traction control system and may be flashing as a need to have it reset due to the traction control being activated under those circumstances. The traction control system monitors the steering stability of the vehicle and engages when loss of traction has been detected. This is done by the use of electronic sensors at each of the four wheels that communicate with the Power Train Control Module (PCM) regarding steering performance and stability in adverse weather conditions. The traction control system works by reducing engine speed and determining which wheel to apply brake pressure to in order to prevent the vehicle from sliding. The anti-lock braking system and the traction control system work together to maintain the stability of the vehicle. The computer uses this information received from electronic sensors regarding the rotational speed of each wheel, the horizontal motion of the vehicle, and the vertical motion of the vehicle to determine how to direct the traction control system or the anti-lock braking system to best control the vehicle when needed. In some cases, the traction control system may simply need to be reprogrammed. I would recommend having a professional from YourMechanic come to your location to properly diagnose your traction control system.
Traction light/reduced engine power and check engine light coming on
ANSWER : Hello. From what you describe, it would appear that your vehicle may be experiencing some sort of intermittent wiring or sensor issue. If the problem occurred again after driving over a bump, then it may be possible that a damaged or loose wire is shorting or having contact issues. A common issue that can cause stalling is a faulty crank position sensor or wiring. I would carefully examine the engine for any loose or damaged wires. If the Check Engine Light comes back on, I would recommend having the trouble codes scanned before resetting the computer.
My check engine light came on AND my cruise control light started flashing, same exact time.
ANSWER : Hello. Subaru has designed their vehicles to turn on the cruise control light when their is a problem with the power train system. This keeps you from using the cruise control when there is a problem. If there is a catalytic converter code then it may be a failure in the converter or an issue with an oxygen sensor. Most of the time this is due to the converter, but I always check the oxygen sensor readings first. If you would like to have this Check Engine Light and catalytic converter issue checked, consider YourMechanic, as a certified mechanic can come to your home or office to diagnose and repair this.
Abs light, emergency brake light, steering wheel assist light, engine light, EPC light, traction control light
ANSWER : Hello, thank you for writing in. The vehicle does utilize a lot of the same sensors for these systems. Are there any other codes that are coming up when this code appears? If so you will want to take these into consideration when processing the repair and making a diagnosis. The module may be bad, and replacing it should fix the problem. The lights should turn off once the main computer recognizes the new module and the sensors sync up. If you believe the sensors need to be cleaned you may do so. Do as minimal as possible to make sure you are not damaging the sensor or disrupting the wiring inside. A bad connection would make the lights stay on. With so many lights that are effected by the module being illuminated, the module is likely bad or does not have a connection. Check the connection first and then resort to replacing the unit. For more help with these electrical tests, contact our service department.
Check engine light, VSC light, and TRAC OFF light is on.
ANSWER : Hi there. There’s always the possibility that something may have been damaged in a collision. On your estimate, you stated that it read "actuator removal without traction control". This is simply for estimating purposes; the adjuster that created the estimate probably either guessed or just went with the first option he/she saw. This does not mean that your vehicle does not have traction control. Your concern as stated by you is that the check engine, VSC, & TRAC OFF lights come on. The VSC & TRAC OFF lights will generally turn on any time the check engine light is on; the ECU stops communication for these systems if a code is stored. This is a safety feature of the ECU in that the logic is set that the traction control and vehicle skid control cannot properly adjust as necessary if there is a malfunction with the engine/transmission. It does not mean that you cannot drive the vehicle, only that these features are turned off until the code is cleared/repaired. A qualified technician can perform an inspection that will determine the cause of the lights and avoid replacing unnecessary parts. Your Mechanic has several available technicians that can assist you with a check engine light inspection.
PO341 code – cruise control kicks off, engine light and vsa lights go on.
ANSWER : There could be an issue with the cruise control switch and the brake switch. The VSA light refers to the brake system and the light maybe coming on for the brake switch not functioning properly causing the cruise control switch to disengage. The code P0341 refers to the camshaft position sensor, which could be coming on for the sensor malfunctioning. If the camshaft position sensor is not reading properly, then the cruise control will disengage as the engine is not in time correctly. If you need further assistance with your cruise control disengaging on its own, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.
Rebuilt engine, oil light on, stalling, traction control
ANSWER : Hi there. One of the biggest issues that car owners experience after having an engine replaced are symptoms like you describe. In most cases, the issue is that the ECU was not correctly reprogrammed by a dealership and thus, is not effectively communicating with sensors and monitoring systems. In other instances, small sensor wires, electrical connection harnesses and other components might be damaged and have not been replaced during the engine swap. Either way, it’s very difficult to pinpoint these issues without being there to inspect the vehicle personally. As such, I would recommend having a professional mobile mechanic come to your location and complete a warning light inspection, so they can inspect your vehicle onsite and determine the best course of action.
While driving on freeway truck goes into a limp mode, and the check engine light, abs light, parking break light, service brake
ANSWER : It is possible that you could be having an issue with your powertrain control module. This is somewhat of a common problem on many GM vehicles. I would recommend having your vehicle inspected by the dealership to determine if the powertrain control module is functioning properly. If not, a reflash of the powertrain control module may resolve the issue but often times it must be replaced.
