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2017 Canyon ABS & Traction Control Lights On, Rough Shifting

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Angela R. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:42 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 GMC Canyon SLT

Hey everyone,

I'm having a pretty serious issue with my 2017 GMC Canyon SLT. The ABS warning light and the Traction Control light both came on a few days ago and haven't gone off. On top of that, the truck has started shifting really roughly, especially from 1st to 2nd gear, and sometimes it feels like it's struggling to find the right gear.

I've heard that ABS sensor issues can sometimes affect transmission performance because the vehicle speed sensors are often integrated or share data. Could a bad wheel speed sensor be causing both of these problems? Or am I looking at two separate, expensive repairs?

Any insights or similar experiences would be helpful!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:42 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

You are absolutely on the right track! The simultaneous illumination of the ABS and Traction Control lights, coupled with rough shifting in your 2017 GMC Canyon SLT, very strongly suggests a problem with a wheel speed sensor or its associated wiring. The vehicle's computer (specifically the Powertrain Control Module or PCM and the Anti-lock Brake System module or ABS module) relies heavily on accurate wheel speed data for multiple functions.

Here's why and what to do:

  1. Wheel Speed Sensor Impact: The ABS and Traction Control systems directly use wheel speed sensor data to prevent wheel lock-up during braking and to maintain traction during acceleration. If one sensor fails or provides erratic readings, these systems will fault and illuminate their warning lights.
  2. Transmission Impact: The transmission control module (TCM) also uses wheel speed data (often from the same sensors or shared data via the CAN bus) to determine vehicle speed, which is crucial for proper shift points and gear selection. Inaccurate speed data can cause harsh shifts, delayed shifts, or even put the transmission into a 'limp mode' for protection.
    • Common OBD-II Codes: You'll likely find codes like C0035-C0050 (related to specific wheel speed sensor circuits - e.g., C0035 for Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor), and potentially P0500 (Vehicle Speed Sensor Malfunction) or transmission-related codes if the TCM is struggling with incorrect data.
  3. Diagnosis: The first step is to get the vehicle scanned with an advanced OBD-II scanner that can read ABS/Traction Control codes (C-codes) in addition to powertrain codes (P-codes). This will pinpoint which wheel speed sensor is faulty.
  4. Inspection: Once the faulty sensor is identified, visually inspect the sensor and its wiring harness for damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Sometimes, a simple repair to the wiring or cleaning of the sensor can resolve the issue.

When to See a Shop:

  • If you don't have access to a scanner that can read ABS codes, a professional diagnosis is essential to avoid replacing parts unnecessarily.
  • Replacing a wheel speed sensor is generally straightforward, but if the issue is with the wiring harness or the ABS module itself, professional repair is recommended. Addressing this promptly is important for both safety (ABS/TC functionality) and transmission longevity.
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