If the ABS and traction control light on your Toyota Tundra comes on, you may be wondering the cause of the problem and how to fix it. Fortunately, we have consulted experts in the field, and here is what they have to say.
ABS and traction control lights might come on for many reasons. It is usually a result of a bad steering angle sensor, low brake fluid, computer failure, blown fuse, bad wheel alignment, weak battery, defective ABS module, or low tire pressure. The following are things you can do to tackle the problem:
- Replace the wheel speed sensor
- Fix any wiring issue
- Change the ABS and traction control module
- Call a mechanic
If this symptom appears, you should address it promptly to the underlying causes from getting worse. Keep reading to get detailed information on what to do when the ABS and traction control light on your Toyota Tundra come on.
Why Is My Toyota Tundra ABS And Traction Control Light On?
Toyota Tundra ABS and traction control warning light may be triggered due to any of the following reasons:
Bad Steering Angle Sensor
The steering angle sensor which is located inside the steering column provides precise information on the angle, location, and rate of return of the steering wheel.
A malfunction in the system's wiring may disrupt communication between the wheel and the computer that controls the traction control system, leading to inaccurate calculations and the activation of the traction control light.
Low Brake Fluid
If your Toyota Tundra's brake fluid is low, you may notice a change in handling. As a result, you may experience a spongy or soft braking system that slows your vehicle's braking power.
This will cause the ABS indicator light to illuminate. Besides the ABS warning light, you may also see additional system warning lights coming on.
Computer Failure
Your vehicle's traction control is dependent on the performance of the vehicle's central computer system. The traction control light will turn on if there is a problem with the computer system, and this will generate error messages.
If the traction control light comes on and there doesn't seem to be anything obvious (such as the steering angle sensor) affecting the traction control system, it's likely that the computer is malfunctioning.
Bad Wheel Alignment
Icy conditions, accidental collisions with obstacles, and repeated impacts with curbs and potholes can all contribute to bad wheel alignment.
Some of these obstacles will affect the operation of the traction control system. If something is blocking and affecting these systems, the ABS and traction control light will be triggered.
In the event that this is merely a temporary problem, the light should turn back off by itself. If not, it could be a sign of a more serious issue.
Defective ABS Module
This is the most common reason for the ABS light to come on in the Toyota Tundra. It's possible that the ABS controller simply stopped functioning properly triggering the warning light.
Alternatively, the traction control light could have been activated because of a problem with the brake system, such as a brake pedal that doesn't work properly.
Low Tire Pressure
Your Toyota Tundra is equipped with sensors that continually report information regarding the wheel speed to the ABS and the traction control system.
If you have low tire pressure in any of your tires, the electronic control unit will mistake this for an abnormal speed. As a result, it could transmit wrong data to the ABS or traction control, setting off the warning lights.
Blown Fuse
A malfunctioning ABS or traction control system may be caused by a blown fuse or a damaged cable connecting the controller to the sensors. The moment your car's computer senses this issue, the ABS warning light will be triggered.
Weak Battery
The ABS and Traction Control lights may come on if the battery is weak or has low power. If your car's alternator is malfunctioning, the battery could die and the automobile could be left completely inoperable until replaced.
Since the ECU, which is required for the operation of both the traction control system and the ABS, depends on power, a sudden loss of power may cause the ECU to send incorrect signals, which could cause the warning lights for each system to illuminate.
What To Do If My Toyota Tundra ABS Or Traction Control Light Is On?
When traction control and ABS lights on your Toyota Tundra's stays on, try these quick fixes:
Replace The Wheel Speed Sensor
If the wheel sensor is faulty, you need to replace it. Before you can replace the sensor, you will first need to identify it, and removing the wheel is the simplest approach to accomplish this task.
After you locate the sensor, it's easy to disconnect the wiring, and a new wire can be installed in its place.
Fix Any Wiring Issues
Sometimes it's not the sensor that's the issue, but the wiring. The wires that lead to the sensors can become disconnected, or a blown-out fuse will prevent establishing a circuit with the sensor.
You can fix this problem by ensuring that the connector is positioned in its proper location and is tightened down securely. Check the fuses and make sure they are in good condition.
Additionally, it is recommended that you use a code reader to check the vehicle for wiring problems because this will put you on the right path, saving you some time in the process.
Change The ABS And Traction Control Module
The module is located under the hood, next to the brake fluid reservoir. Since it's enormous, square sized as well as the numerous brake lines that lead to it, it is quite easy to notice.
The module should be replaced as a very last resort because doing so might be quite challenging and pricey depending on the circumstances.
Before beginning this task, check that you have all of the necessary equipment and that you need. Then disconnect the old module's connections and replace them with new ones. After this is, a procedure called "brake bleed" needs to be carried out to ensure that the system does not contain any air bubbles.
Call A Mechanic
If you are having trouble repairing your vehicle, you should most likely take it to a technician so that they can do the work for you. The mechanic will be familiar with all that is required to resolve the issue with the warning light on your Toyota Tundra.
Is It Safe To Drive With ABS And Traction Control Light On?
If either the ABS or the TCS warning lights turn on, you shouldn't drive the vehicle until you have diagnosed the problem.
Warning lights for traction control and anti-lock brake system should never stay on at the same time, as they can signal extremely hazardous conditions.
In any case, it's best to stop somewhere safe and try restarting the car to see whether the warning signals go out. By using this measure, you can determine if the alarm was triggered due to a random occurrence.
If the warning light returns, however, you should stop driving immediately and get the system checked out. Even if you have to keep driving because of an emergency, do so carefully and avoid sudden brake or acceleration, which could cause the wheels to skid.
How Do You Reset The ABS Light On A Toyota Tundra?
You shouldn't reset your ABS warning light until you have examined your brakes. Here's how to reset the ABS light in your Toyota Tundra if you're sure the brakes are fine:
- Open the hood and use a socket wrench to remove the negative battery cable.
- Allow at least three seconds to pass.
- Reattach the negative battery cable to your vehicle's battery.
- Using a socket wrench, tighten the cable.
When you remove your battery, the entire electrical system is reset. If you followed the steps above, the ABS light should have reset if it was faulty. However, if there is a problem with your brake system, it may restart.
How Much Does It Cost To Fix ABS And Traction Control Light?
The amount it will cost to fix the ABS and traction control light depends on what needs to be fixed or replaced. Replacing an ABS sensor will typically cost around $1,000, although individual sensors may be purchased for around $200.
If the problem is the control module, you have the option of taking it to a mechanic, which will cost you approximately $1,000, or you may fix it yourself.
Therefore, the cost to repair your anti-lock brake systems will be approximately $1,800 for a typical vehicle that has sensors on all four wheels.
Does Traction Control Have Anything To Do With Transmission?
No, traction control and transmission are unrelated. Since they are unrelated systems, you shouldn't experience any issues with either one as a result of the other. Nevertheless, a vehicle is susceptible to any problem imaginable, regardless of how likely the problem is to occur.
To Wrap Up
If you notice that the ABS and traction control lights on your Toyota Tundra is on, all you have to do is replace the wheel speed sensor and the ABS and traction control module. You can consult an expert if you can't fix the problem by yourself.
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