2024 Outlander - ABS and Traction Control Lights On

ClearTheCode admin answer:

When both the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Traction Control (Active Stability Control or ASC) lights illuminate simultaneously on your 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander, it indicates a fault within these critical safety systems. While the car may seem to drive normally, these systems are disabled, meaning you won't have the benefit of ABS during hard braking or traction control to prevent wheel spin.

Here's what to consider:

1. Check for Simple Causes:

   • Action: Although less common on a new vehicle, ensure all wheel lug nuts are properly tightened. Sometimes, a loose connection or debris near a wheel speed sensor can trigger these lights. Briefly inspect around each wheel for any obvious damage to wiring or sensors.
   • Causes: Loose wheel, minor debris interfering with a sensor, or a very rare manufacturing defect in wiring.

2. Wheel Speed Sensors:

   • Action: The most common cause for both ABS and Traction Control lights is a faulty wheel speed sensor or its wiring. These sensors monitor the rotational speed of each wheel and are crucial for both systems. Even on a new car, a sensor could be defective or have a loose connection. A diagnostic scan tool capable of reading ABS/ASC codes is needed to pinpoint which sensor (if any) is at fault.
   • Causes: Faulty wheel speed sensor, damaged sensor wiring, or excessive debris/corrosion on the sensor tip (less likely on a new car).

3. Brake Fluid Level and Pressure Sensor:

   • Action: While you checked the fluid level, ensure it's precisely at the 'MAX' line. Some systems are very sensitive to slight variations. Also, a fault with the brake pressure sensor within the ABS hydraulic unit could trigger these lights.
   • Causes: Low brake fluid (even slightly), faulty brake pressure sensor.

4. ABS Module Failure:

   • Action: In rare cases, especially with a new vehicle, the ABS control module itself could be faulty. This is a more serious and expensive repair. A professional diagnostic tool can often communicate with the module to confirm its status.
   • Causes: Internal electrical fault within the ABS control module.

When to See a Shop: Given that your 2024 Outlander is brand new and under warranty, your immediate action should be to contact your Mitsubishi dealership. Do not attempt extensive DIY diagnostics or repairs, as this could potentially void your warranty or complicate the repair process. The dealership has specialized diagnostic equipment to read the specific C-codes (chassis codes) related to the ABS/ASC system and can perform the necessary repairs under warranty. Driving without these safety systems fully functional, especially ABS, can be hazardous in emergency braking situations.