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ABS and Traction Control lights on in my 2016 Mazda 6 Touring

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 3:34 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2016 Mazda 6 Touring

Hello everyone, I have a 2016 Mazda 6 Touring, and recently both the ABS warning light and the Traction Control System (TCS) light came on in my dashboard. They came on simultaneously and have stayed on.

I also feel like the brake pedal might be a bit stiffer than usual, but I'm not entirely sure if that's related or just my imagination. The car seems to drive okay, but I'm worried about these warning lights.

Has anyone experienced this with their Mazda 6? What could be causing these lights to illuminate, and is it safe to drive? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 3:34 AM

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  1. Identify the Cause: When both the ABS and Traction Control lights illuminate together, it almost always indicates a fault within the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The Traction Control System (TCS) relies heavily on the ABS sensors and components, so a fault in one often triggers the other. Common causes include:
    • Wheel Speed Sensor Failure: This is the most frequent culprit. Each wheel has a sensor that monitors its rotational speed. If a sensor fails or its wiring is damaged, the ABS module can't get accurate data, triggering the warning lights. Common OBD-II codes associated with this are C0031, C0034, C0037, C0040 (for front left, front right, rear left, rear right wheel speed sensor faults, respectively).
    • ABS Module Failure: Less common, but the ABS control module itself can fail.
    • Low Brake Fluid: While less likely to trigger both simultaneously without other warnings, extremely low brake fluid can sometimes contribute.
    • Faulty ABS Pump/Motor: Issues with the hydraulic control unit or pump.
  2. Diagnostic Steps:
    • The first step is to use an OBD-II scanner capable of reading ABS codes (not all basic scanners can) to retrieve any stored diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). This will usually point directly to the faulty wheel speed sensor or other ABS component.
    • Visually inspect the wheel speed sensors and their wiring at each wheel for any obvious damage or disconnections.
    • Check brake fluid level.
  3. When to See a Shop: You should have this checked immediately. While your regular brakes might still function, the ABS and TCS systems are disabled when these lights are on. 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. The stiffer brake pedal might also indicate an issue with the brake booster or vacuum system, which could be a separate but related concern that also needs prompt attention. Driving without these safety systems is not recommended.
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