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2020 Canyon SLT - ABS and Traction Control Lights On

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Paul Z. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:41 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 GMC Canyon SLT

Hello everyone, I'm having an issue with my 2020 GMC Canyon SLT. Recently, both the ABS warning light and the Traction Control light (the one with the car and squiggly lines) have illuminated on my dashboard. They came on simultaneously and have stayed on.

The truck seems to drive normally, and I haven't noticed any immediate changes in braking performance, but I know these lights indicate a problem with critical safety systems. I'm worried about driving it like this.

Has anyone experienced this with their Canyon? What are the common causes for both of these lights to come on together? Is there an easy fix, or am I looking at a trip to the dealer? Any specific OBD codes I should look for?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:41 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

When both the ABS and Traction Control lights illuminate on your 2020 GMC Canyon SLT, it almost always indicates a fault within the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) that also affects the Traction Control System (TCS), as TCS relies heavily on ABS components and sensors.

Here are the most common causes and steps to consider:

  1. Faulty Wheel Speed Sensor: This is by far the most common cause. Each wheel has a sensor that monitors its rotational speed. If one of these sensors fails, becomes dirty, or its wiring is damaged, the ABS module loses critical data, triggering both lights. The system can't accurately determine if a wheel is locking up or slipping.
  2. Damaged ABS Tone Ring: The wheel speed sensor reads a 'tone ring' (a toothed wheel) on the axle or hub. If this ring is damaged, corroded, or clogged with debris, the sensor can't get an accurate reading.
  3. Low Brake Fluid Level: While less common to trigger both lights simultaneously without other brake warnings, extremely low brake fluid can sometimes affect system performance.
  4. Faulty ABS Module: The ABS control module itself can fail, though this is less frequent than sensor issues. A module failure would prevent the system from functioning correctly.
  5. Wiring Issues: Damaged or corroded wiring to any of the ABS components (sensors, module, pump) can cause communication errors and trigger the lights.

Common OBD Codes:

  • C0035 - C0050: These ranges often indicate issues with specific wheel speed sensors (e.g., C0035 for Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor).
  • C0110: Pump Motor Circuit Malfunction.
  • C0121: Valve Relay Circuit Malfunction.

When to See a Shop:

  • Immediately: While the truck might seem to drive normally, your ABS and Traction Control systems are disabled. This means you won't have anti-lock braking in an emergency stop, and your traction control won't prevent wheel spin on slippery surfaces. This significantly impacts safety.
  • Diagnosis: A professional shop will connect a diagnostic scanner capable of reading ABS-specific codes (not just generic OBD-II codes). These codes will pinpoint the exact sensor or circuit that is faulty, allowing for targeted repair. They will then inspect the sensor, wiring, and tone ring for damage or contamination.
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