2023 Ascent ABS and Traction Control lights on after hitting pothole

ClearTheCode admin answer:

It's very common for the ABS and Traction Control lights to illuminate simultaneously after hitting a significant pothole, as these systems rely heavily on wheel speed sensor data. The cruise control system also often deactivates when these lights are on, as it requires accurate wheel speed information for safe operation.

Here's what likely happened and what to check:

1. Wheel Speed Sensor Damage: The most probable cause is damage to one of the wheel speed sensors (also known as ABS sensors) or its wiring, located near the wheel that hit the pothole. The impact could have:

   • Damaged the sensor itself: Cracked or broken the plastic sensor housing.
   • Dislodged the sensor: Knocked it out of its mounting.
   • Damaged the wiring harness: Severed or frayed the wires leading to the sensor.
   • Damaged the tone ring/reluctor wheel: This is a toothed ring the sensor reads, and it can sometimes get bent or cracked.

2. Visual Inspection:

   • Safely jack up the corner of your 2023 Subaru Ascent that hit the pothole.
   • Remove the wheel and visually inspect the area around the brake rotor and hub.
   • Look for the ABS sensor (a small, usually black plastic sensor) and its wiring. Check for any visible damage, disconnections, or signs of impact.

Is it safe to drive?

While the car may seem to drive fine, driving with the ABS and Traction Control lights on means these critical safety systems are disabled. In an emergency braking situation, your wheels could lock up, and in slippery conditions, the traction control will not intervene to prevent wheelspin. It's generally advised to drive with extreme caution and at reduced speeds, avoiding sudden braking or aggressive maneuvers, until the issue is resolved.

When to See a Shop:

• Immediate Inspection: If you cannot visually identify any obvious damage or if you're uncomfortable inspecting it yourself, take your Ascent to a qualified Subaru technician immediately.
• Diagnostic Scan: A professional shop will have a specialized scan tool that can read ABS-specific fault codes, which will pinpoint exactly which wheel speed sensor or circuit is faulty. This is much more accurate than guessing.
• Repair: They can then replace the damaged sensor, repair the wiring, or address any other related issues efficiently and safely.